American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - The world is at a crossroads, and it's up to the future generations of leaders to take responsibility, President Barack Obama today told 300 students and young professionals from about 50 countries gathered in Strasbourg, France, for the NATO Youth Summit conference being held in conjunction with the alliance's annual summit. "We find ourselves at a crossroads, ... all of us, for we've arrived at a moment where each nation and every citizen must choose, at last, how we respond to a world that has grown smaller and more connected than at any time in its existence," Obama said.
“But it's also a tremendous responsibility, because it is you who must ultimately decide what we do with this incredible moment in history," he added.
In remarks ahead of the NATO summit today, Obama said the forces that have brought the world closer together have had both good and bad repercussions.
"The same forces that have brought us closer together have also given rise to new dangers that threaten to tear our world apart, dangers that cannot be contained by the nearest border or the furthest ocean," he said.
Outlining some of the 21st century threats the international community faces, Obama cited the spread of nuclear weapons and the theft of nuclear material, which has the potential to lead "to the extermination of any city on the planet."
Describing the global reach of terrorism, the president pointed to attacks on both U.S. and British soil that were hatched domestically and abroad.
"The terrorists who struck in London and New York plotted in distant caves and simple apartments much closer to your home," he said. As a result, every country in the international community has a share in responsibility, he added.
"Every nation bears responsibility for what lies ahead, especially now," Obama said. "For whether it's the recession or climate change or terrorism or drug trafficking, poverty or the proliferation of nuclear weapons, we have learned that, without a doubt, there's no corner of the globe that can wall itself off from the threats of the 21st century.
"The one way forward -- the only way forward -- is through a common and persistent effort to combat fear and want wherever they exist," he continued. "That is the challenge of our time, and we cannot fail to meet it together."
Obama reached into the history of NATO, one day before the military alliance celebrates its 60th birthday. Without firing a single shot, he said, the alliance prevented the Iron Curtain from descending on the free nations of Western Europe, and led to the crumbling of the Berlin Wall and the end of the communist threat.
"Two decades later, with 28 member nations that stretch from the Baltic to the Mediterranean, NATO remains the strongest alliance that the world has ever known," he said, praising the addition this week of Albania and Croatia, and France's recent pledge to deepen its commitment.
Speaking about the alliance's mission in Afghanistan, Obama praised the contributions made by NATO allies to an operation that he characterized as "indispensable to our common security."
"Now I understand that this war has been long. Our allies have already contributed greatly to this endeavor," he said. "You've sent your sons and daughters to fight alongside ours, and we honor and respect their service and sacrifice."
Obama said there's no decision more difficult, and no duty more painful, than signing a letter to the family of somebody who's died in a war. As a result, he understands doubts among Americans and Europeans about NATO's first overseas mission.
"But know this: The United States of America did not choose to fight a war in Afghanistan," he said. "We were attacked by an al-Qaida network that killed thousands on American soil, including French and Germans. Along the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan, those terrorists are still plotting today. And if there is another al-Qaida attack, it is just as likely, if not more, that it will be here in Europe, in a European city."
Obama said he has requested more civilian and military assistance from NATO allies to help root out terrorists who pose a threat to international security.
"This is a mission that tests whether nations can come together in common purpose on behalf of our common security. That's what we did together in the 20th century," he said. "And now we need an alliance that is even stronger than when it brought down a mighty wall in Berlin.
"That's why we applaud France's decision to expand and deepen its participation in NATO, just as we support a strong European defense," the president continued. "That's why we welcome Croatia and Albania into the fold. And that is why we must ensure that NATO is equipped and capable of facing down the threats and challenges of this new age."
The president implored the young people into action, cautioning that contentment with the successes of the last century will not help defend against modern threats.
"This is our generation. This is our time," he said. "And I am confident that we can meet any challenge, as long as we are together."
Young people, by virtue of being unburdened by the biases or prejudices of the past, have a unique privilege and responsibility today, Obama said.
"Each time we find ourselves at a crossroads, paralyzed by worn debates and stale thinking, the old ways of doing things, a new generation rises up and shows the way forward," he said.
Friday, April 03, 2009
NATO Remains as Necessary as Ever, Secretary General Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, now more than ever, must hold together to solve some of the world's most pressing problems, NATO's secretary general said on the eve of the alliance's 60th anniversary and summit. NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said the leaders of the 28 NATO nations have much on their plates during the summit, which begins today.
In a commentary in today's Wall Street Journal, de Hoop Scheffer made the case that NATO is as relevant today as it was when founded 60 years ago.
The secretary general noted that many of the leaders who attended the G-20 economics meeting in London yesterday also are attending the NATO summit today and tomorrow in France and Germany. In London, they concentrated on economic progress in the face of a global financial meltdown. At the summit, the leaders will stress security.
"This is not a total change of subject," de Hoop Scheffer wrote. "Imagine what would happen to the international financial system if there were another major terrorist attack. What would happen to investment and growth if the free flow of energy were seriously threatened? Could struggling economies keep the wheels turning if they came under the same kind of cyber attacks that Estonia suffered two years ago?"
Security is not discretionary; it is something that enables all other aspects of life and progress, de Hoop Scheffer said. Like an economy, security can be built only through multinational cooperation, he added. That cooperation is illustrated, he noted, in France and Germany jointly hosting NATO's summit.
The leaders meeting this week will have to chart a common way forward on Afghanistan, the secretary general said. While there has been progress in the north and west of the country, he noted, al-Qaida and the Taliban remain a threat.
The insurgency continues in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and corruption and narcotics are endemic, de Hoop Scheffer said. International aid to the country is far too fragmented, he added. "We must do better, before the endurance of the international community and the patience of the Afghan people begin to wane," he said.
President Barack Obama consulted extensively with allies as part of the U.S. Afghan strategy review, and the allies will consult extensively on the recommendations during the summit, the secretary general said. This would include more support for Pakistan, and more coordinated efforts to strengthen Afghanistan's police and army.
NATO leaders also will discuss building a true partnership with Russia, de Hoop Scheffer said. NATO can work constructively with Russia on Afghanistan, missile defense and terrorism, he said.
"It is no secret that when it comes to Russia, there are a wide range of views within NATO, from the very cautious to the forward-leaning," he acknowledged. "Until we narrow that range, it will be difficult to engage Russia effectively."
For its part, Russia must decide whether it wants to recognize NATO's desire for partnership, "or whether it will continue to look at NATO through the prism of a Cold War that is long behind us," the secretary general said.
NATO leaders will adopt a declaration on alliance security that not only will reaffirm NATO's core business, but also will map what it should do in future, de Hoop Scheffer said.
"I hope that the alliance also will launch a fundamental review of NATO's strategic concept — one of the alliance's most important guiding documents — to get agreement among allies on what NATO should be doing in the 21st century, including on cyber defense and energy security, areas where I believe NATO should do more to add its unique value," he said.
The summit participants also will mark 60 years of the alliance. When the Soviet Union broke up, signaling the end of the Cold War, many forecast that the alliance would die.
"But NATO is alive and kicking, because it still has a unique job to do: to be the place where Europe and North America stand together, consult together and act together to ensure their common security," de Hoop Scheffer said. "That role will be reaffirmed and strengthened at this weekend's summit."
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, now more than ever, must hold together to solve some of the world's most pressing problems, NATO's secretary general said on the eve of the alliance's 60th anniversary and summit. NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said the leaders of the 28 NATO nations have much on their plates during the summit, which begins today.
In a commentary in today's Wall Street Journal, de Hoop Scheffer made the case that NATO is as relevant today as it was when founded 60 years ago.
The secretary general noted that many of the leaders who attended the G-20 economics meeting in London yesterday also are attending the NATO summit today and tomorrow in France and Germany. In London, they concentrated on economic progress in the face of a global financial meltdown. At the summit, the leaders will stress security.
"This is not a total change of subject," de Hoop Scheffer wrote. "Imagine what would happen to the international financial system if there were another major terrorist attack. What would happen to investment and growth if the free flow of energy were seriously threatened? Could struggling economies keep the wheels turning if they came under the same kind of cyber attacks that Estonia suffered two years ago?"
Security is not discretionary; it is something that enables all other aspects of life and progress, de Hoop Scheffer said. Like an economy, security can be built only through multinational cooperation, he added. That cooperation is illustrated, he noted, in France and Germany jointly hosting NATO's summit.
The leaders meeting this week will have to chart a common way forward on Afghanistan, the secretary general said. While there has been progress in the north and west of the country, he noted, al-Qaida and the Taliban remain a threat.
The insurgency continues in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and corruption and narcotics are endemic, de Hoop Scheffer said. International aid to the country is far too fragmented, he added. "We must do better, before the endurance of the international community and the patience of the Afghan people begin to wane," he said.
President Barack Obama consulted extensively with allies as part of the U.S. Afghan strategy review, and the allies will consult extensively on the recommendations during the summit, the secretary general said. This would include more support for Pakistan, and more coordinated efforts to strengthen Afghanistan's police and army.
NATO leaders also will discuss building a true partnership with Russia, de Hoop Scheffer said. NATO can work constructively with Russia on Afghanistan, missile defense and terrorism, he said.
"It is no secret that when it comes to Russia, there are a wide range of views within NATO, from the very cautious to the forward-leaning," he acknowledged. "Until we narrow that range, it will be difficult to engage Russia effectively."
For its part, Russia must decide whether it wants to recognize NATO's desire for partnership, "or whether it will continue to look at NATO through the prism of a Cold War that is long behind us," the secretary general said.
NATO leaders will adopt a declaration on alliance security that not only will reaffirm NATO's core business, but also will map what it should do in future, de Hoop Scheffer said.
"I hope that the alliance also will launch a fundamental review of NATO's strategic concept — one of the alliance's most important guiding documents — to get agreement among allies on what NATO should be doing in the 21st century, including on cyber defense and energy security, areas where I believe NATO should do more to add its unique value," he said.
The summit participants also will mark 60 years of the alliance. When the Soviet Union broke up, signaling the end of the Cold War, many forecast that the alliance would die.
"But NATO is alive and kicking, because it still has a unique job to do: to be the place where Europe and North America stand together, consult together and act together to ensure their common security," de Hoop Scheffer said. "That role will be reaffirmed and strengthened at this weekend's summit."
VA Secretary Expects Big Impact From Post-9/11 GI Bill
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - All systems are on track for this summer's rollout of the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, which Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said he expects to have as monumental an impact as the original World War II-era GI Bill of Rights. Shinseki, who served as Army chief of staff from 1999 to 2003, told American Forces Press Service he understands the excitement over the new program that goes into effect Aug. 1.
The new GI Bill will provide the most comprehensive educational benefits since the original bill, officially called the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, was signed into law.
Many veterans who served after Sept. 11, 2001, will be eligible for full tuition and fees, a new monthly housing stipend and an annual stipend of up to $1,000 for books and supplies. Reservists and National Guard members who have been activated for more than 90 days since 9/11 will have access to the same GI Bill benefits.
And for the first time, those enrolled in the Post-9/11 GI Bill program will be able to transfer unused educational benefits to spouses or children.
"It has been a long time since we've had an education initiative that includes tuition fees [and a] housing allowance, [and] takes care of all of the requirements required to go to school," Shinseki said of the program. This will enable veterans to focus on their studies, he said, without the distractions of figuring out how to pay for them.
Shinseki said he expects the Post-9/11 GI Bill to have as big an impact as the original GI Bill. That law provided college education or vocational training for millions of returning World War II veterans, loans so they could buy homes or start businesses, and unemployment compensation while they looked for jobs.
By the time the original GI Bill ended in July 1956, 7.8 million World War II veterans had taken advantage of the education and training programs it funded, and another 2.4 million had signed up for VA-backed home loans.
"What that bill did for the country was to change the course of our history and the latter half of the 20th century," Shinseki said. "When those veterans went back to their communities with their college degrees, they ended up being our leaders in religion, education, business, government – you name it."
The Post-9/11 version "has the opportunity to create in the 21st century the same kind of impact for development, ... social change [and] leadership across a lot of institutions," he said.
The program will be administered and funded by VA, and represents a "huge investment" by the United States in its veterans, Shinseki said.
This, he said, sends a strong, unmistakable message.
"I think young veterans who come back and participate in [in the Post 9/11 GI Bill] will begin to understand how much they are valued [and] how much their service is valued, just by the opportunity here," he said.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates advocated expanding education benefits as a way to recognize troops' service while supporting both recruiting and retention. Gates first heard the transferability concept floated during a meeting with a military spouses' group at Fort Hood, Texas, and pitched the idea to then-President George W. Bush. Bush promoted the idea and ultimately signed the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008 into law on June 30.
A whopping 97 percent of servicemembers surveyed in August said they plan to take advantage of the new benefits provided in the Post-11 GI Bill, said Bill Carr, deputy undersecretary of defense for military personnel policy.
"Enormous interest has been expressed in the transferability provision and how it would work, because so many in the force have families," Carr said. He noted that half of the military force is married. By the time troops have served six years of duty, about two-thirds have families.
To qualify for transferability under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, servicemembers must have served six years on active duty or in the Selected Reserve, and must commit to another four years. But Carr said the rules could be tweaked soon to allow mid- or late-career troops to qualify, even if they can't sign on for another four years of duty due to service restrictions.
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - All systems are on track for this summer's rollout of the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, which Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said he expects to have as monumental an impact as the original World War II-era GI Bill of Rights. Shinseki, who served as Army chief of staff from 1999 to 2003, told American Forces Press Service he understands the excitement over the new program that goes into effect Aug. 1.
The new GI Bill will provide the most comprehensive educational benefits since the original bill, officially called the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, was signed into law.
Many veterans who served after Sept. 11, 2001, will be eligible for full tuition and fees, a new monthly housing stipend and an annual stipend of up to $1,000 for books and supplies. Reservists and National Guard members who have been activated for more than 90 days since 9/11 will have access to the same GI Bill benefits.
And for the first time, those enrolled in the Post-9/11 GI Bill program will be able to transfer unused educational benefits to spouses or children.
"It has been a long time since we've had an education initiative that includes tuition fees [and a] housing allowance, [and] takes care of all of the requirements required to go to school," Shinseki said of the program. This will enable veterans to focus on their studies, he said, without the distractions of figuring out how to pay for them.
Shinseki said he expects the Post-9/11 GI Bill to have as big an impact as the original GI Bill. That law provided college education or vocational training for millions of returning World War II veterans, loans so they could buy homes or start businesses, and unemployment compensation while they looked for jobs.
By the time the original GI Bill ended in July 1956, 7.8 million World War II veterans had taken advantage of the education and training programs it funded, and another 2.4 million had signed up for VA-backed home loans.
"What that bill did for the country was to change the course of our history and the latter half of the 20th century," Shinseki said. "When those veterans went back to their communities with their college degrees, they ended up being our leaders in religion, education, business, government – you name it."
The Post-9/11 version "has the opportunity to create in the 21st century the same kind of impact for development, ... social change [and] leadership across a lot of institutions," he said.
The program will be administered and funded by VA, and represents a "huge investment" by the United States in its veterans, Shinseki said.
This, he said, sends a strong, unmistakable message.
"I think young veterans who come back and participate in [in the Post 9/11 GI Bill] will begin to understand how much they are valued [and] how much their service is valued, just by the opportunity here," he said.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates advocated expanding education benefits as a way to recognize troops' service while supporting both recruiting and retention. Gates first heard the transferability concept floated during a meeting with a military spouses' group at Fort Hood, Texas, and pitched the idea to then-President George W. Bush. Bush promoted the idea and ultimately signed the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008 into law on June 30.
A whopping 97 percent of servicemembers surveyed in August said they plan to take advantage of the new benefits provided in the Post-11 GI Bill, said Bill Carr, deputy undersecretary of defense for military personnel policy.
"Enormous interest has been expressed in the transferability provision and how it would work, because so many in the force have families," Carr said. He noted that half of the military force is married. By the time troops have served six years of duty, about two-thirds have families.
To qualify for transferability under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, servicemembers must have served six years on active duty or in the Selected Reserve, and must commit to another four years. But Carr said the rules could be tweaked soon to allow mid- or late-career troops to qualify, even if they can't sign on for another four years of duty due to service restrictions.
Chairman Urges Support in Preventing Sexual Assault
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - As the Defense Department kicked off its annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month observance, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff took to the airwaves to tell servicemembers they have a part to play in preventing sexual assault. "It's up to each of us to prevent sexual assault," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said in a public service announcement being aired on the Pentagon Channel and its affiliates.
Mullen noted that nearly 3,000 armed forces members, both military and civilian, reported sexual assault last year.
"This crime has no place – NO PLACE – in our ranks," Mullen said. "One is one too many."
Mullen called on servicemembers to check out a new Web site, http://www.sapr.mil, to learn more about the department's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program.
"You can take a stand," he said, emphasizing the 'you.'"
"It's up to each of us," he said. "It's up to all of us."
April 3, 2009 - As the Defense Department kicked off its annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month observance, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff took to the airwaves to tell servicemembers they have a part to play in preventing sexual assault. "It's up to each of us to prevent sexual assault," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said in a public service announcement being aired on the Pentagon Channel and its affiliates.
Mullen noted that nearly 3,000 armed forces members, both military and civilian, reported sexual assault last year.
"This crime has no place – NO PLACE – in our ranks," Mullen said. "One is one too many."
Mullen called on servicemembers to check out a new Web site, http://www.sapr.mil, to learn more about the department's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program.
"You can take a stand," he said, emphasizing the 'you.'"
"It's up to each of us," he said. "It's up to all of us."
North Dakota Adjutant General Gets 'Blogged' Down in Flood Response
By Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith
Special to American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - North Dakota's adjutant general reached out to civilian and military Internet bloggers yesterday to detail the flood response efforts under way in his state. Army Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk said he wanted to use any means available to tell the nation what has taken place in his state. "Anything we can do to get the word out," he said. "I think it's very important." Sprynczynatyk said the blogging community and the Internet are just another means to get information and access to the public.
Bloggers on the call were interested in the spring floods along the state's Red River and other areas, which rose in late March. With the river receding and state officials now estimating the damage, Guard members and civilian responders are preparing for a predicted snow melt in the next few weeks, Sprynczynatyk said.
The general took questions on the telephone, as well as through online social media outlets, including Twitter, a popular social networking and micro-blogging service. The Blogger's Roundtable, a Defense Department social media program, hosted the event.
Roundtable coordinator Lindy Kyzer said in an e-mail that several hundred live listeners normally participate in their Roundtable talks. The interviews are then posted to iTunes for downloading. Bloggers post the interviews or portions of them on their Web sites, and typically include commentaries about the topics.
Blog readers are invited to post comments, which generate additional discussion and postings about the interview and topic.
"Today was the first time that a National Guard adjutant general has directly engaged bloggers to tell our story in a homeland defense mission," Jack Harrison, the National Guard Bureau's director of public affairs, said.
During his session, Sprynczynatyk told the bloggers that 2,400 Guard members joined local emergency responders to fly search-and-rescue missions, fill and stack sand bags, manage ice jams and help communities in many other flood response missions.
"It was epic in nature," Sprynczynatyk said. "None of us imagined what the scale of the event would be across the state."
He added that the North Dakota Guard had anticipated and prepared for flooding from the winter snowfalls. "We went through an extensive planning exercise to ensure whatever was asked of us we would be prepared for," he said.
Harrison said expanding the National Guard's public communications activities into new and developing media will provide the public unique access to leaders like the adjutants general.
"It's an opportunity that those in the community would not normally have to ask questions about their National Guard," he said. "The National Guard is based in the community, and this helps strengthen that bond."
The National Guard Bureau maintains a Facebook fan page, a Flickr account and a YouTube channel. Those sites can be found at http://www.NGB.Army.mil.
(Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith serves with the National Guard Bureau.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - North Dakota's adjutant general reached out to civilian and military Internet bloggers yesterday to detail the flood response efforts under way in his state. Army Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk said he wanted to use any means available to tell the nation what has taken place in his state. "Anything we can do to get the word out," he said. "I think it's very important." Sprynczynatyk said the blogging community and the Internet are just another means to get information and access to the public.
Bloggers on the call were interested in the spring floods along the state's Red River and other areas, which rose in late March. With the river receding and state officials now estimating the damage, Guard members and civilian responders are preparing for a predicted snow melt in the next few weeks, Sprynczynatyk said.
The general took questions on the telephone, as well as through online social media outlets, including Twitter, a popular social networking and micro-blogging service. The Blogger's Roundtable, a Defense Department social media program, hosted the event.
Roundtable coordinator Lindy Kyzer said in an e-mail that several hundred live listeners normally participate in their Roundtable talks. The interviews are then posted to iTunes for downloading. Bloggers post the interviews or portions of them on their Web sites, and typically include commentaries about the topics.
Blog readers are invited to post comments, which generate additional discussion and postings about the interview and topic.
"Today was the first time that a National Guard adjutant general has directly engaged bloggers to tell our story in a homeland defense mission," Jack Harrison, the National Guard Bureau's director of public affairs, said.
During his session, Sprynczynatyk told the bloggers that 2,400 Guard members joined local emergency responders to fly search-and-rescue missions, fill and stack sand bags, manage ice jams and help communities in many other flood response missions.
"It was epic in nature," Sprynczynatyk said. "None of us imagined what the scale of the event would be across the state."
He added that the North Dakota Guard had anticipated and prepared for flooding from the winter snowfalls. "We went through an extensive planning exercise to ensure whatever was asked of us we would be prepared for," he said.
Harrison said expanding the National Guard's public communications activities into new and developing media will provide the public unique access to leaders like the adjutants general.
"It's an opportunity that those in the community would not normally have to ask questions about their National Guard," he said. "The National Guard is based in the community, and this helps strengthen that bond."
The National Guard Bureau maintains a Facebook fan page, a Flickr account and a YouTube channel. Those sites can be found at http://www.NGB.Army.mil.
(Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith serves with the National Guard Bureau.)
Obama, Sarkozy Share Views on NATO, Russia, Afghanistan
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - French President Nicolas Sarkozy today remembered the Americans "who fought and died for us" at Normandy as he called for greater integration between the United States and Europe under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Sarkozy and President Barack Obama held a joint news conference in advance of the NATO summit in Strasbourg, France, today.
Obama stressed that NATO is the most successful alliance in modern history. "The basic premise of NATO was that Europe's security was the United States' security, and vice versa," the president said.
The alliance has been the pillar of American foreign policy since its founding 60 years ago, and it will become even stronger ahead, Obama said. "With France's reintegration into the highest command structures of NATO, that principle will continue to be upheld," he said.
The alliance needs strong allies, both Obama and Sarkozy said. The French and American presidents said they want Europe to have much more robust defense capabilities.
The United States is "not looking to be the patron of Europe, we're looking to be partners with Europe," Obama said.
France and the United States have a shared vision of the world, Sarkozy said. "We don't want to impose our values on anybody," he said. "But we don't want anybody, anywhere in the world, to prevent us from believing in our principles."
At the summit, the alliance members will deal with future relations with Russia. Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev met during the G-20 economics conference in London. The president said there is potential to improve U.S.-Russian relations.
"I think that it is important for NATO allies to engage Russia and to recognize that they have legitimate interests," he said. "In some cases we've got common interests. But we also have some core disagreements."
NATO and Russia should be in a dialogue. "We have to send a very clear message to Russia that we want to work with them, but that we can't go back to the old ways of doing business," he added.
One area of agreement could be Iran, Obama said. "All have an interest in preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and that there should be a mechanism that respects Iran's sovereignty and allows them to develop peaceful nuclear energy, but draws a clear line that we cannot have a nuclear arms race in the Middle East," he said.
Sarkozy said there is no exclusive Russian area of influence any more. "With the problems the world faces today, we're not going to reinvent the Cold War," he said. "We need the world getting together; we need the world to unite. We need Russia to shoulder its responsibilities, because it is a great country, a great power, to help us find a solution to the Iranian crisis."
France and the United States are on the same page in dealing with Russia, Sarkozy said.
Obama praised France for its stance on Afghanistan. He called France a stalwart ally and addressed the possibilities of all the NATO allies re-engaging in a more effective mission in Afghanistan.
"I've not had to drag France kicking and screaming into ... Afghanistan, because France recognizes that having al-Qaida operate safe havens that can be used to launch attacks is a threat not just to the United States, but to Europe," the American president said. "In fact, it is probably more likely that al-Qaida would be able to launch a serious terrorist attack in Europe than in the United States, because of proximity."
The French president endorsed the new U.S. strategy in Afghanistan. "I want to say to my fellow Frenchmen that when New York was crucified, this could have happened in any other capital city of any democratic state," Sarkozy said. "It wasn't New York that was being targeted, it was democracies at large."
France has a major presence in Afghanistan, with almost 1,100 soldiers. "We are prepared to do more in terms of police, of the gendarmes, the military police, in terms of economic aid, in order to train Afghans and 'Afghanize' Afghanistan," Sarkozy said.
"We are not waging a war against Afghanistan. We are helping Afghanistan rebuild," he said. "We don't support any given candidate. We support the right of young Afghans to look to a future, to have a future."
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - French President Nicolas Sarkozy today remembered the Americans "who fought and died for us" at Normandy as he called for greater integration between the United States and Europe under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Sarkozy and President Barack Obama held a joint news conference in advance of the NATO summit in Strasbourg, France, today.
Obama stressed that NATO is the most successful alliance in modern history. "The basic premise of NATO was that Europe's security was the United States' security, and vice versa," the president said.
The alliance has been the pillar of American foreign policy since its founding 60 years ago, and it will become even stronger ahead, Obama said. "With France's reintegration into the highest command structures of NATO, that principle will continue to be upheld," he said.
The alliance needs strong allies, both Obama and Sarkozy said. The French and American presidents said they want Europe to have much more robust defense capabilities.
The United States is "not looking to be the patron of Europe, we're looking to be partners with Europe," Obama said.
France and the United States have a shared vision of the world, Sarkozy said. "We don't want to impose our values on anybody," he said. "But we don't want anybody, anywhere in the world, to prevent us from believing in our principles."
At the summit, the alliance members will deal with future relations with Russia. Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev met during the G-20 economics conference in London. The president said there is potential to improve U.S.-Russian relations.
"I think that it is important for NATO allies to engage Russia and to recognize that they have legitimate interests," he said. "In some cases we've got common interests. But we also have some core disagreements."
NATO and Russia should be in a dialogue. "We have to send a very clear message to Russia that we want to work with them, but that we can't go back to the old ways of doing business," he added.
One area of agreement could be Iran, Obama said. "All have an interest in preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and that there should be a mechanism that respects Iran's sovereignty and allows them to develop peaceful nuclear energy, but draws a clear line that we cannot have a nuclear arms race in the Middle East," he said.
Sarkozy said there is no exclusive Russian area of influence any more. "With the problems the world faces today, we're not going to reinvent the Cold War," he said. "We need the world getting together; we need the world to unite. We need Russia to shoulder its responsibilities, because it is a great country, a great power, to help us find a solution to the Iranian crisis."
France and the United States are on the same page in dealing with Russia, Sarkozy said.
Obama praised France for its stance on Afghanistan. He called France a stalwart ally and addressed the possibilities of all the NATO allies re-engaging in a more effective mission in Afghanistan.
"I've not had to drag France kicking and screaming into ... Afghanistan, because France recognizes that having al-Qaida operate safe havens that can be used to launch attacks is a threat not just to the United States, but to Europe," the American president said. "In fact, it is probably more likely that al-Qaida would be able to launch a serious terrorist attack in Europe than in the United States, because of proximity."
The French president endorsed the new U.S. strategy in Afghanistan. "I want to say to my fellow Frenchmen that when New York was crucified, this could have happened in any other capital city of any democratic state," Sarkozy said. "It wasn't New York that was being targeted, it was democracies at large."
France has a major presence in Afghanistan, with almost 1,100 soldiers. "We are prepared to do more in terms of police, of the gendarmes, the military police, in terms of economic aid, in order to train Afghans and 'Afghanize' Afghanistan," Sarkozy said.
"We are not waging a war against Afghanistan. We are helping Afghanistan rebuild," he said. "We don't support any given candidate. We support the right of young Afghans to look to a future, to have a future."
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 3, 2009
UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
Evergreen Helicopters, Inc., of McMinnville, Ore., is being awarded a $158,397,403 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for rotary wing aircraft, personnel, equipment, tools, material, maintenance and supervision necessary to perform passenger and cargo air transportation services. Work will be performed in Afghanistan and is expected to start Apr. 3, 2009, to be completed by Nov. 30, 2013. This contract was a competitive acquisition with four offers received. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., (HTC711-09-D-0023).
ARMY
BAE Systems, Tactical Vehicle Systems Limited Partnership, Sealy, Texas, was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009, a $64,092,257 firm-fixed-price and cost reimbursement contract for the procurement of 500 ten-ton dumps as an undefinitized contractual action obligating 49.9 percent of the ceiling price. Work is to be performed in Sealy, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army TACOM-Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-0460).
Skanska Brandt Engineering, San Antonio, Texas, was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009, a $61,199,866 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the Tri-Service Research Laboratory. Work is to be performed in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Mar. 1, 2011. Ten bids solicited and ten bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-09-C-0025).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Inc., Burlington, Vt., was awarded on Apr. 2, 2009, a $28,980,070 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of an additional 2,414 each M2 machine guns. Work is to be performed in Saca, Maine, with an estimated completion date of Apr. 2, 2009. One bid solicited and one bid received. TACOM LCMC, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52H09-07-C-125).
Weeks Marine, Inc. Covington, La., was awarded on Apr. 2, 2009, a $25,725,875 firm-fixed-price contract for the Grand Isle & vicinity rehabilitation of Hurricane Gustav and Ike damages. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 31, 2009. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and four bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-09-0038).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,862,538 Primary firm-fixed-price with a time and Material contract for the procurement of thirteen M1A2 and M60A3 conduct of fire trainers and one M1A2 tank trainer's updates under Foreign Military Sale case SR-B-VTC for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Procurement includes delivery of trainer kits, spares, training, on-site acceptance and test, and technical data. Work is to be performed in Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 14, 2011. One Sole Source bid was solicited and one bid received. Program Executive Office Simulation, Training and Instrumentation, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting agency (W900KK-07-D-0707).
Titan Construction Organization, Inc., Olathe, Kan., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,387,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of consolidated communications facilities at Whiteman Air Force Base. Work is to be performed in Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 05, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and nine bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting agency (W912DQ-09-C-4019).
Telcordia Technologies, Inc., Piscataway, N.J., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,203,124 cost plus fixed fee contract to provide situational awareness to a small group of dismounted warfighters. Work is to be performed in Piscataway, N.J., with an estimated completions date of Mar. 31, 2011. Bids were solicited by Broad Agency Announcement and one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0065).
Better Built Construction Services, Middletown, Ohio, was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,125,296 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the Training Support Center at Ft. Campbell, Ky. Work is to be performed in Ft. Campbell, Ky., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 21, 2011. Bids were posted on web and eight bids received. Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting agency (W912QR-09-C-0025).
RQ Construction, Inc. San Diego, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009 a $8,726,996 firm-fixed-price contract for the design-build for military operations urban training Phase III, at Fort Irwin, Calif. This is a design Phase III consist of approximately 83 buildings. The primary facilities include a palace headquarters, barracks, multistory business and one two-story residence, training roads and instruments. Work is to be performed in Fort Irwin, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Jun. 30, 2009. Bids were solicited on www.fbo.gov and ASFI with nine bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Las Angeles, Calif., is the contracting agency (W912PL-09-C-0012).
I.C.D. Design Partnership, Madison, Wis., was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009 a $7,594,401 firm-fixed-price contract to increase the program square footage from 3600,000 gross square feet to 526,255 gross square feet. Work is to be performed in Madison, Wis., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 28, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and thirty bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Baltimore, Md., is the contracting agency (W912DR-08-C-0001).
Northrop Grumman Space & Mission System, Redondo Beach, Calif., was awarded on Apr 2, 2009, a $6,525,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee for the develop critical devices and integration technologies necessary to realize compact, high-performance electronic circuits that operate at a center frequency of 1.03THz. Work is to be performed in Redondo Beach, Calif., (82.58 percent), Charlottesville, Va., (1.84 percent), Pasadena, Calif., (9.38 percent), Charlottesville, Va., (3.51 percent), Tempe, Ariz., (1.73 percent), and University Park, Pa., (0.96 percent) with an estimated completion date of Mar. 31, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and nine bids received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0062).
Bristol environment Remediation, LLC, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $5,952,258 firm-fixed-price contract to implement the final intrusive drum removal and capping remedy for the Cargo Beach Road landfill. Work is to be performed in St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Jun. 30, 2010. One bid solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting agency (W911KB-09-C-0013).
Rocky Hill Contracting, Inc., Kenbridge, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $5,242,000 firm-fixed-price contract for constructing a training building in Fort Lee, Va. Work is to be performed in Fort Eustis, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 15, 2011. Eighty bids were solicited and two bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineer, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting agency (W91236-09-D-0011).
NAVY
General Dynamics Information Technology, Fairfax, Va., is being awarded a $50,814,949 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a cost-plus-fixed-fee pricing arrangement to support the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific Command and Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) Secure Voice and Defense Red Switch Network, and information assurance and interoperability programs/systems. This five-year contract includes eight, six-month award terms which, if earned, would bring the potential, cumulative value of this contract to $98,145,000. Work will be performed at the contractor's facility in Norfolk, Va., (15 percent) and at government-furnished facilities in St Juliens Creek, Va., (85 percent), and work is expected to be completed April 2, 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunity web site (Solicitation N66001-08-R-0008) and the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with two offers received. SSC Pacific is the contracting activity (N66001-09-D-0037).
Ewing & Cole, Inc., Philadelphia, Pa., is being awarded a maximum amount $7,500,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract for architectural design and engineering services for support of projects within the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Mid-Atlantic area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for architectural and engineering services, including civil/structural/mechanical/ electrical. Services that may be required under this contract include DD Form 1391 documentation, plans, specifications, cost estimates, related studies, all associated engineering services, shop drawing review, as-built drawing preparation, quality assurance plan preparation, operation and maintenance support information, and construction surveillance and engineering consultation services during construction. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations and other government facilities within the NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic AOR including, but not limited to Pennsylvania (50 percent) and Delaware (50 percent), and is expected to be completed by April 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with 17 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-09-D-7022).
Tech Resources, Inc.,* Milford, N.H., is being awarded a $5,899,702 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 16 F/A-18+ AN/ALR-67(V)3 antenna coupler interconnecting groups for the Royal Australian Air Force and the government of Canada. Work will be performed in Milford, N.H., and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to the FAR 6.302-1. This contract combines purchases for the Government of Australia ($2,949,849; 50 percent) and the Government of Canada ($2,949,852; 50 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N68335-09-C-0133).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Alion Science and Technology Corporation of Chicago, Illinois for an estimated $9,178,744. This action is for the Special II Program, which requires modeling, simulation and analyses in the areas of radio frequency interference electromagnetic compatibility, signal intelligence, and emerging wireless technologies. At this time, $556,870 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (N61339-03-D-0300).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to L-3 Communications Corp. of San Diego, Calif., for a maximum of $9,847,831. This contract will provide production and delivery of miniature electronic communications security units engineering and production models to be purchased in quantity ranges from 5 to 30 units. At this time, no money has been obligated. Directorate of Contracting, San Antonio, Texas is the contracting activity (FA8307-09-D-0002).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Caterpillar Inc., Mossville, Ind., is being awarded a maximum $8,863,745 fixed price with economic price adjustment, long term contract for motorized vibratory compactor roller. Other location of performance is Minnesota. Using service is Navy. There were originally four proposals solicited with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-01-D-0059-0287).
JLG Industries, Inc., McConnellsburg, Pa., is being awarded a maximum $6,289,999 firm fixed price, long term contract for forklift linear valve. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There was originally one proposal solicited with two responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Apr. 6, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC-ZGAA), Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-09-D-0013).
BAE Systems Land & Armament, Pompano Beach, Fla., is being awarded a maximum $6,288,811 firm fixed price, sole source, definite quantity contract for gunner restraints. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jul. 24, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio, (SPM7LX-09-M-0003).
Evergreen Helicopters, Inc., of McMinnville, Ore., is being awarded a $158,397,403 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for rotary wing aircraft, personnel, equipment, tools, material, maintenance and supervision necessary to perform passenger and cargo air transportation services. Work will be performed in Afghanistan and is expected to start Apr. 3, 2009, to be completed by Nov. 30, 2013. This contract was a competitive acquisition with four offers received. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., (HTC711-09-D-0023).
ARMY
BAE Systems, Tactical Vehicle Systems Limited Partnership, Sealy, Texas, was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009, a $64,092,257 firm-fixed-price and cost reimbursement contract for the procurement of 500 ten-ton dumps as an undefinitized contractual action obligating 49.9 percent of the ceiling price. Work is to be performed in Sealy, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army TACOM-Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-0460).
Skanska Brandt Engineering, San Antonio, Texas, was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009, a $61,199,866 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the Tri-Service Research Laboratory. Work is to be performed in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Mar. 1, 2011. Ten bids solicited and ten bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-09-C-0025).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Inc., Burlington, Vt., was awarded on Apr. 2, 2009, a $28,980,070 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of an additional 2,414 each M2 machine guns. Work is to be performed in Saca, Maine, with an estimated completion date of Apr. 2, 2009. One bid solicited and one bid received. TACOM LCMC, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52H09-07-C-125).
Weeks Marine, Inc. Covington, La., was awarded on Apr. 2, 2009, a $25,725,875 firm-fixed-price contract for the Grand Isle & vicinity rehabilitation of Hurricane Gustav and Ike damages. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 31, 2009. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and four bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-09-0038).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,862,538 Primary firm-fixed-price with a time and Material contract for the procurement of thirteen M1A2 and M60A3 conduct of fire trainers and one M1A2 tank trainer's updates under Foreign Military Sale case SR-B-VTC for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Procurement includes delivery of trainer kits, spares, training, on-site acceptance and test, and technical data. Work is to be performed in Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 14, 2011. One Sole Source bid was solicited and one bid received. Program Executive Office Simulation, Training and Instrumentation, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting agency (W900KK-07-D-0707).
Titan Construction Organization, Inc., Olathe, Kan., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,387,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of consolidated communications facilities at Whiteman Air Force Base. Work is to be performed in Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 05, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and nine bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting agency (W912DQ-09-C-4019).
Telcordia Technologies, Inc., Piscataway, N.J., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,203,124 cost plus fixed fee contract to provide situational awareness to a small group of dismounted warfighters. Work is to be performed in Piscataway, N.J., with an estimated completions date of Mar. 31, 2011. Bids were solicited by Broad Agency Announcement and one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0065).
Better Built Construction Services, Middletown, Ohio, was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $9,125,296 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the Training Support Center at Ft. Campbell, Ky. Work is to be performed in Ft. Campbell, Ky., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 21, 2011. Bids were posted on web and eight bids received. Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting agency (W912QR-09-C-0025).
RQ Construction, Inc. San Diego, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009 a $8,726,996 firm-fixed-price contract for the design-build for military operations urban training Phase III, at Fort Irwin, Calif. This is a design Phase III consist of approximately 83 buildings. The primary facilities include a palace headquarters, barracks, multistory business and one two-story residence, training roads and instruments. Work is to be performed in Fort Irwin, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Jun. 30, 2009. Bids were solicited on www.fbo.gov and ASFI with nine bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Las Angeles, Calif., is the contracting agency (W912PL-09-C-0012).
I.C.D. Design Partnership, Madison, Wis., was awarded on Apr. 1, 2009 a $7,594,401 firm-fixed-price contract to increase the program square footage from 3600,000 gross square feet to 526,255 gross square feet. Work is to be performed in Madison, Wis., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 28, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and thirty bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Baltimore, Md., is the contracting agency (W912DR-08-C-0001).
Northrop Grumman Space & Mission System, Redondo Beach, Calif., was awarded on Apr 2, 2009, a $6,525,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee for the develop critical devices and integration technologies necessary to realize compact, high-performance electronic circuits that operate at a center frequency of 1.03THz. Work is to be performed in Redondo Beach, Calif., (82.58 percent), Charlottesville, Va., (1.84 percent), Pasadena, Calif., (9.38 percent), Charlottesville, Va., (3.51 percent), Tempe, Ariz., (1.73 percent), and University Park, Pa., (0.96 percent) with an estimated completion date of Mar. 31, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and nine bids received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0062).
Bristol environment Remediation, LLC, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $5,952,258 firm-fixed-price contract to implement the final intrusive drum removal and capping remedy for the Cargo Beach Road landfill. Work is to be performed in St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Jun. 30, 2010. One bid solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting agency (W911KB-09-C-0013).
Rocky Hill Contracting, Inc., Kenbridge, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $5,242,000 firm-fixed-price contract for constructing a training building in Fort Lee, Va. Work is to be performed in Fort Eustis, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 15, 2011. Eighty bids were solicited and two bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineer, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting agency (W91236-09-D-0011).
NAVY
General Dynamics Information Technology, Fairfax, Va., is being awarded a $50,814,949 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a cost-plus-fixed-fee pricing arrangement to support the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific Command and Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) Secure Voice and Defense Red Switch Network, and information assurance and interoperability programs/systems. This five-year contract includes eight, six-month award terms which, if earned, would bring the potential, cumulative value of this contract to $98,145,000. Work will be performed at the contractor's facility in Norfolk, Va., (15 percent) and at government-furnished facilities in St Juliens Creek, Va., (85 percent), and work is expected to be completed April 2, 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunity web site (Solicitation N66001-08-R-0008) and the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with two offers received. SSC Pacific is the contracting activity (N66001-09-D-0037).
Ewing & Cole, Inc., Philadelphia, Pa., is being awarded a maximum amount $7,500,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract for architectural design and engineering services for support of projects within the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Mid-Atlantic area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for architectural and engineering services, including civil/structural/mechanical/ electrical. Services that may be required under this contract include DD Form 1391 documentation, plans, specifications, cost estimates, related studies, all associated engineering services, shop drawing review, as-built drawing preparation, quality assurance plan preparation, operation and maintenance support information, and construction surveillance and engineering consultation services during construction. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations and other government facilities within the NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic AOR including, but not limited to Pennsylvania (50 percent) and Delaware (50 percent), and is expected to be completed by April 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with 17 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-09-D-7022).
Tech Resources, Inc.,* Milford, N.H., is being awarded a $5,899,702 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 16 F/A-18+ AN/ALR-67(V)3 antenna coupler interconnecting groups for the Royal Australian Air Force and the government of Canada. Work will be performed in Milford, N.H., and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to the FAR 6.302-1. This contract combines purchases for the Government of Australia ($2,949,849; 50 percent) and the Government of Canada ($2,949,852; 50 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N68335-09-C-0133).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Alion Science and Technology Corporation of Chicago, Illinois for an estimated $9,178,744. This action is for the Special II Program, which requires modeling, simulation and analyses in the areas of radio frequency interference electromagnetic compatibility, signal intelligence, and emerging wireless technologies. At this time, $556,870 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (N61339-03-D-0300).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to L-3 Communications Corp. of San Diego, Calif., for a maximum of $9,847,831. This contract will provide production and delivery of miniature electronic communications security units engineering and production models to be purchased in quantity ranges from 5 to 30 units. At this time, no money has been obligated. Directorate of Contracting, San Antonio, Texas is the contracting activity (FA8307-09-D-0002).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Caterpillar Inc., Mossville, Ind., is being awarded a maximum $8,863,745 fixed price with economic price adjustment, long term contract for motorized vibratory compactor roller. Other location of performance is Minnesota. Using service is Navy. There were originally four proposals solicited with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-01-D-0059-0287).
JLG Industries, Inc., McConnellsburg, Pa., is being awarded a maximum $6,289,999 firm fixed price, long term contract for forklift linear valve. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There was originally one proposal solicited with two responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Apr. 6, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC-ZGAA), Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-09-D-0013).
BAE Systems Land & Armament, Pompano Beach, Fla., is being awarded a maximum $6,288,811 firm fixed price, sole source, definite quantity contract for gunner restraints. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jul. 24, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio, (SPM7LX-09-M-0003).
Groups Use Social Networking Sites to Reach Out to Supporters
By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - From fundraising to volunteering, troop-support groups are taking full advantage of social networking Web sites to reach out and gather support for troops at home and abroad. "We created three MySpace pages a few years back and a Facebook page this year," Andi Grant, president and founder of Give2TheTroops, said. "We update our pages daily, running current events, group news and photos. These Web sites have helped us quite a bit in gathering support and organizing."
Operation Gratitude, a California based troop-support group, has long believed social Web sites are a "great" tool for keeping in touch with supporters and sharing troop information. On its official Web site, Operation Gratitude urges all visitors to join the group's Facebook "cause" page and invite more of their Facebook friends to join as well.
"Our Facebook page was set up a month ago," Carolyn Blashek, president of Operation Gratitude, said. "The 'cause' page was set up about two years ago. We have seen an increase in volunteers and supporters through our Facebook networking. We started using Twitter about a month ago. The two have provided a mechanism for us to publish updates easily and recruit volunteers. I can honestly say keeping up with the two has enhanced our efforts, but also caused more work!"
Leaders of both groups agree social networking sites have allowed them to "get the word out" more quickly about different activities and events because of the high volume of traffic on these Web sites. It also allows for online conversations with prospective volunteers and supporters through chat rooms and forums, and direct supporters back to their official Web sites to collect funds for troop-support activities.
"By utilizing these Web sites, we have been able to introduce more people to who we are – our goals, our mission and why we do what we do," Blashek said. "We've also received a lot of positive feedback and ideas from supporters who didn't know we existed."
Grant, whose troop-support group is based in Connecticut, acknowledged some possible drawbacks to social networking.
"You need to have the time to maintain the Web site, answer questions and monitor responses and comments," Grant said. "There is plenty of competition out there, so if you don't have designated people updating and monitoring your page, it can have adverse effects."
Grant said he had to delete inappropriate remarks and, on occasion, links to other causes which other supporters wanted his group to endorse. "Bottom line – you have to patrol it often," he said.
While both leaders recommend social networking Web sites to other troop-support groups, they still value the success of their official Web sites.
"It's still too early to tell in comparing our Facebook page with our Web site," Blaschek said. "Our Web site is still a vital part of who we are. I would definitely recommend these other social networking sites to other groups. The more people know what you do, as it relates to supporting the troops, the better. I look at this as just another way of communicating with supporters."
American Forces Press Service
April 3, 2009 - From fundraising to volunteering, troop-support groups are taking full advantage of social networking Web sites to reach out and gather support for troops at home and abroad. "We created three MySpace pages a few years back and a Facebook page this year," Andi Grant, president and founder of Give2TheTroops, said. "We update our pages daily, running current events, group news and photos. These Web sites have helped us quite a bit in gathering support and organizing."
Operation Gratitude, a California based troop-support group, has long believed social Web sites are a "great" tool for keeping in touch with supporters and sharing troop information. On its official Web site, Operation Gratitude urges all visitors to join the group's Facebook "cause" page and invite more of their Facebook friends to join as well.
"Our Facebook page was set up a month ago," Carolyn Blashek, president of Operation Gratitude, said. "The 'cause' page was set up about two years ago. We have seen an increase in volunteers and supporters through our Facebook networking. We started using Twitter about a month ago. The two have provided a mechanism for us to publish updates easily and recruit volunteers. I can honestly say keeping up with the two has enhanced our efforts, but also caused more work!"
Leaders of both groups agree social networking sites have allowed them to "get the word out" more quickly about different activities and events because of the high volume of traffic on these Web sites. It also allows for online conversations with prospective volunteers and supporters through chat rooms and forums, and direct supporters back to their official Web sites to collect funds for troop-support activities.
"By utilizing these Web sites, we have been able to introduce more people to who we are – our goals, our mission and why we do what we do," Blashek said. "We've also received a lot of positive feedback and ideas from supporters who didn't know we existed."
Grant, whose troop-support group is based in Connecticut, acknowledged some possible drawbacks to social networking.
"You need to have the time to maintain the Web site, answer questions and monitor responses and comments," Grant said. "There is plenty of competition out there, so if you don't have designated people updating and monitoring your page, it can have adverse effects."
Grant said he had to delete inappropriate remarks and, on occasion, links to other causes which other supporters wanted his group to endorse. "Bottom line – you have to patrol it often," he said.
While both leaders recommend social networking Web sites to other troop-support groups, they still value the success of their official Web sites.
"It's still too early to tell in comparing our Facebook page with our Web site," Blaschek said. "Our Web site is still a vital part of who we are. I would definitely recommend these other social networking sites to other groups. The more people know what you do, as it relates to supporting the troops, the better. I look at this as just another way of communicating with supporters."
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Barksdale Air Force Base Picked as New Home of Global Strike Command
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - Barksdale Air Force Base, La., has been picked as the new home of the Air Force's Global Strike Command, which will oversee most of the military's nuclear bomber fleet and strategic ballistic missile operations, the Air Force announced today. Global Strike Command will include both the 8th and 20th Air Force, according to an Air Force news release. Eighth Air Force's headquarters is at Barksdale, and 20th Air Force's headquarters is at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
The new command will manage B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress bomber operations. That capability was formerly managed by Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
The command also will maintain and operate the Air Force's intercontinental missile operations that previously were under the purview of Air Force Space Command at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.
Management of B-1 Lancer bomber operations will still be conducted by Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base. The cyber and intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance missions will be removed from 8th Air Force's portfolio.
Other bases that were under consideration to be the command's headquarters included Minot Air Force Base, N.D.; F.E. Warren Air Force Base; Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont.; Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.; and Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. Site surveys of all bases under consideration were completed March 6.
"All six candidate locations received a thorough evaluation in accordance with our basing process," said Kathleen Ferguson, the Air Force's deputy assistant secretary for installations.
An environmental impact evaluation at Barksdale is pending, according to the release.
An as-yet unnamed three-star general will command Global Strike Command.
The stand up of GSC came about from a reorganization of the Air Force's nuclear-mission organization ordered by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, following some highly publicized operational miscues committed by Air Force nuclear force managers.
The Air Force announced in October 2008 that a new major command would be formed to oversee the service's nuclear-deterrence mission. Bolling Air Force Base here has served as Global Strike Command's provisional headquarters since Jan. 12.
Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley said last fall that the reorganization would address some long-standing, systematic problems in the Air Force's handling of nuclear assets. Donley said inspection of Air Force nuclear assets would now be conducted by the service's Inspector General Office.
The establishment of Global Strike Command, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norman A. Schwartz noted last fall, would put his service onto a "back-to-basics" path for nuclear-weapons-realm accountability, compliance, precision and reliability.
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - Barksdale Air Force Base, La., has been picked as the new home of the Air Force's Global Strike Command, which will oversee most of the military's nuclear bomber fleet and strategic ballistic missile operations, the Air Force announced today. Global Strike Command will include both the 8th and 20th Air Force, according to an Air Force news release. Eighth Air Force's headquarters is at Barksdale, and 20th Air Force's headquarters is at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
The new command will manage B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress bomber operations. That capability was formerly managed by Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
The command also will maintain and operate the Air Force's intercontinental missile operations that previously were under the purview of Air Force Space Command at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.
Management of B-1 Lancer bomber operations will still be conducted by Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base. The cyber and intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance missions will be removed from 8th Air Force's portfolio.
Other bases that were under consideration to be the command's headquarters included Minot Air Force Base, N.D.; F.E. Warren Air Force Base; Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont.; Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.; and Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. Site surveys of all bases under consideration were completed March 6.
"All six candidate locations received a thorough evaluation in accordance with our basing process," said Kathleen Ferguson, the Air Force's deputy assistant secretary for installations.
An environmental impact evaluation at Barksdale is pending, according to the release.
An as-yet unnamed three-star general will command Global Strike Command.
The stand up of GSC came about from a reorganization of the Air Force's nuclear-mission organization ordered by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, following some highly publicized operational miscues committed by Air Force nuclear force managers.
The Air Force announced in October 2008 that a new major command would be formed to oversee the service's nuclear-deterrence mission. Bolling Air Force Base here has served as Global Strike Command's provisional headquarters since Jan. 12.
Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley said last fall that the reorganization would address some long-standing, systematic problems in the Air Force's handling of nuclear assets. Donley said inspection of Air Force nuclear assets would now be conducted by the service's Inspector General Office.
The establishment of Global Strike Command, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norman A. Schwartz noted last fall, would put his service onto a "back-to-basics" path for nuclear-weapons-realm accountability, compliance, precision and reliability.
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 2, 2009
ARMY
BAE Systems, Anniston, Ala., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, an $87,735,664.00 firm fixed price contract for the reset of 697 M113 Family of Vehicles. Work is to be performed at Anniston, Ala., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-G-0005).
BAE Systems, York, Pa., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, an $81,419,445.00 firm fixed price contract for production of 39 Army-configured M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicles, and three sets of Authorized Stockage List Spares. Work is to be performed at York, Pa., (98 percent) and Aiken, S.C. (2 percent), with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command Contracting Center, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0408).
Caterpiller Inc., Defense and Federal Products, Mossville, Ill., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $24,579,261.00 firm fixed price contract for 105 Heavy Loader Type I and II, with attachments (105 sweepers and 53 forklifts). Work is to be performed at Montgomery, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with five bids received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-D-L424).
Logos Technologies, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $19,628,192 cost plus fixed fee contract for research with the primary objective of the program to conduct Phase I of the BioJET program in the area of process development, process integration, fuel qualification, end-user testing, and economic planning. The ultimate objective of this program is to develop an end-to-end process for commercially viable production of BioJET – JP-8 spec jet fuel from biomass. The complete, multi-threaded process has a target of 70 percent efficiency and a target process cost of $2/gallon while using all of the biomass, including the lignin. Bids were solicited by Broad Agency Announcement and 17 bids were received. Defense Advanced Research Projects, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0075).
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $15,858,384 firm fixed price contract Global Geospatial Intelligence (GGI) Product Pricing Consolidated Task Order (PPCTO) for multiple geospatial data products to be procured at firm fixed price product pricing throughout the period Mar. 31, 2009 thru Jan. 13, 2010. Work is to be performed at Chantilly, Va., (43 percent) and St. Louis, Mo., (57 percent), with an estimated completion date of Jan. 13, 2011. National Geospatial – Intelligence Agency, ACSM, St. Louis, Mo., is the contracting activity (NMA302-03-D-0007).
J&S Construction Co., Inc., Cookeville, Tenn., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $12,824,050 firm fixed price contract for design and construction of Special Operations Forces Tactical Equipment Shop at Fort Campbell, Ky. Estimated completion date is Jul. 24, 2010. Solicited bids were posted on the Web with eight bids received. Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0023).
Manhattan Torcon A joint Venture, Falls Church Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009 a $333,000,000 firm fixed price contract for the replacement of the facility at Fort Detrick in Fredrick, Md. Work is to be performed at Fort Detrick, Frederick, Md., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 5, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Baltimore, Md., is the contracting activity (W912DR-09-C-0026).
Raytheon Co., Andover, Mass., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $114,864,781 firm fixed price contract to provide Patriot Pure Fleet Grow the Army (4Lot). Work is to be performed at Andover, Mass., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q07-C-0151).
General Dynamic Armament and Technical Production, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, with a $37,876,787 firm fixed price contract for 158 Bradley Reactive Armor Tile Sets for the Bradley fighting vehicle system. Work is to be performed at multiple locations with an estimated completions date of Jul. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munition & Lethality, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-06-C-0143).
DATRON World Communications, INC., Vista, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009 a $25,408,728 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for tactical very high frequency radios with ancillary items, spare parts and installation kits for Foreign Military Sales case. Work is to be performed at Vista, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 20, 2014. One sole source bid was solicited and one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J. is the contracting activity (W15P7T-09-D-D212).
CACI INC FEDERAL, Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $22,043,216 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with cost plus award fee with the purpose of Genesis III to acquire comprehensive engineering and logistics support for the intelligence community (IC) ground and air-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems at worldwide locations. Work is to be performed at multiple overseas and stateside locations with an estimated completion date of Mar. 27, 2013. Bids were solicited on the Web with two bids received. U.S. Army, Intelligence and Security Command, Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W911W4-09-D-0001).
Anderson Construction Co., of Fort Gaines, Fort Gaines, Ga., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $11,291,309 firm fixed price contract to design/build an Air and Space basic course. Work is to be performed at Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery with an estimated completion date of Nov.13, 2009. Bids were solicited on the FedBizOpps with ten bids received. Contract Office Corps of Engineers, Mobile Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-09—0021).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $11,265,660 firm fixed price contract with cost plus fixed fee, line items contract for the Viper Strike Munitions and engineering services. Work is to be performed at Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala, is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-07-C-0268).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Sunnyvale, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $9,933,420 cost shipping contract for Lockheed Martin to demonstrate a turbulence control method in order to improve power flux on target high speed flight. Work is to be performed at Sunnyvale, Calif., (13 percent) and Fort Worth, Texas, (87percent), with an estimated completion date of Nov. 8, 2011. One sole source bid was solicited and one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HR0011-08-C-0090).
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $7,209,828 firm fixed price contract for architect engineering services for facility design, Consolidated Intelligence Center, Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Germany. Estimated completion date is Mar. 17, 2010. Information was not provided for bids solicited or received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Europe District, Wiesbaden, Germany, is the contracting activity (W912DR-08-D-0001).
Marsh Creek Environmental Services, LLC, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $6,122,382.00 firm fixed price contract for Federal Underutilized Defense Sites (FUDS) – Umiat Well #9, Umiat, Alaska. The Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for the decommissioning of Umiat Well No. 9. FUDS is responsible for cleanup of the contamination surrounding the well up to the well casing. Polychlorinated bi-phenol (PCB) soil contamination at Umiat Test Well No. 9 was introduced in the drilling mud, as PCBs and petroleum (POL) contaminated soil adjacent to the wellhead and in a nearby bum area. This estimated total has increased significantly. Work is to be performed at Prudhoe Bay, North Slope Borough, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Sep. 29, 2009. Bids were solicited on the Web with one bid received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, Contracting Division, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity W911KB-08-C-0024).
Phil Howry Co., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $5,885,533 firm fixed price contract to provide construction of a 14,000 square foot one-story facility, consoling of a 60ft. X 60 ft. simulator bay, briefing rooms, conference room, mass briefing area and computer room. Work is to be performed at Curry County, New Mexico, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 19, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and ten bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Albuquerque, N.M., is the contracting activity (W912PP-09-0006).
Tompkins Builders, Inc., Washington, D.C., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, a $56,700,000 firm fixed price contract for a design build project for the Training and Doctrine Command Headquarters (TRADOC HQ) at Fort Eustis, Va. The project includes construction of a New Headquarters Building of (263,676 square foot) and construction of a New TRADOC Band Building (18,841 square foot) and the required supporting facilities and site improvements. Work is to be performed at Fort Eustis, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 15, 2011. 80 bids were solicited and four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer, Norfolk District, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (W91236-09-C-0035).
CAE USA, INC., Tampa, Fla., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, an $18,175,231 firm fixed price contract for modifications and upgrades needed for Special Operation Aviation. Work is to be performed at Tampa, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 2011. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-01-D-0725-0003).
Olin Corp., East Alton, Ill., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, an $11,766,647.00, firm fixed price contract for 9mm Ammunition, 85,540,500 each. Work will be performed at East Alton, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited and two bids received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-06-D-0031).
Lincoln Public Schools, Lincoln Mass., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, a $10,476,451 firm fixed price contract for the provision of comprehensive education program services, grades preK-8, for eligible DoD family members residing on Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass. Estimated completion date is Jun. 30, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with one bid received. DDESS, Peachtree City, Ga., is the contracting activity (HE1254-07-C-0005).
Watterson/Davis JV, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $38,588,284 firm fixed price contract for which the procured service is the design and construction of the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve F-22 squadron operations/aircraft maintenance unit (AMU)/6-bay hangar facility, (PROJ: ELM297/292) at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. Estimated completion date is Mar. 24, 2011. Eight bids were solicited with four bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-07-D-0013).
Doyon-American Mechanical, JV, Fairbanks, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $10,700,983 firm fixed price contract to construct a Stryker wash facility (PN63006) at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Estimated completion date is Sep. 21, 2010. Seven bids were solicited and four bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-08-D-0010).
R.C. Heath Construction Co., DBA Heath Construction Co., Fort Collins, Colo., was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $6,765,498 firm fixed price construction contract for renovation of historical dormitory 236, at FE Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Estimated completion date is Oct. 30, 2010. Bids were solicited on the Web with 12 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity (W9128F-09-C-0004).
General Dynamics Information Technology, Needham, Mass., was awarded on Mar. 24, 2009, an $8,716,903 firm fixed price contract to furnish, install, test, document, and cutover a turnkey solution to upgrade the existing infrastructure and facilities at Picatinny Arsenal. Work is to be performed at Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 23, 2010. Ten bids were solicited and five bids received. Army Contracting Command, ITEC4, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W91QUZ-06-D-0026).
Intersteel, Lexington, Ky., was awarded on Mar. 24, 2009, an $8,216,000 firm fixed price contract for the design build renovation of building 2369. Work is to be performed at Ft. Knox, Ky., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 15, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0021).
Jones Lang Lasalle Americas, Inc., Washington, D.C., was awarded on Mar. 14, 2009, a $6,409,402.41 firm fixed price contract for Privatization initiative to include: Residential Communities Initiative Survey, SOUTHCOM Feasibility Research, and support to the Army's Portfolio and Asset Management Process. Work is to be performed at Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 30, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Contracting Center of Excellence, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W91WAW-09-C-0054).
NAVY
Raytheon Co., Space and Airborne Systems, El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a $54,481,204 firm fixed price contract for the procurement of 19 AN/APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array radars to be retrofitted into F/A-18E/F aircraft Lots 26-29. The radars will replace the APG-73 radars currently installed in the aircraft. Work will be performed in Forest, Miss., (43 percent); Dallas, Texas (29 percent); El Segundo, Calif., (27 percent); and Andover, Mass., (1 percent) and is expected to be completed in Dec. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-C-0003).
USA Environmental, Inc.*, Oldsmar, Fla., is being awarded an $11,530,118 cost plus award fee task order modification JN03-01 under a previously awarded Munitions Response contract (N62742-05-D-1868) for Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) removal at former Vieques Naval Training Range (VNTR). The work to be performed provides for the removal of surface and subsurface MEC at the live impact area, surface impact area, eastern conservation area and the eastern maneuver area. The task order will be incrementally funded with the first increment of $7,000,550 being allocated at the time of award. The second increment will be funded later in FY09 at $4,529,568. Work will be performed in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and is expected to be completed by Apr. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems, Anniston, Ala., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, an $87,735,664.00 firm fixed price contract for the reset of 697 M113 Family of Vehicles. Work is to be performed at Anniston, Ala., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-G-0005).
BAE Systems, York, Pa., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, an $81,419,445.00 firm fixed price contract for production of 39 Army-configured M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicles, and three sets of Authorized Stockage List Spares. Work is to be performed at York, Pa., (98 percent) and Aiken, S.C. (2 percent), with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command Contracting Center, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0408).
Caterpiller Inc., Defense and Federal Products, Mossville, Ill., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $24,579,261.00 firm fixed price contract for 105 Heavy Loader Type I and II, with attachments (105 sweepers and 53 forklifts). Work is to be performed at Montgomery, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with five bids received. U.S. Army Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-D-L424).
Logos Technologies, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $19,628,192 cost plus fixed fee contract for research with the primary objective of the program to conduct Phase I of the BioJET program in the area of process development, process integration, fuel qualification, end-user testing, and economic planning. The ultimate objective of this program is to develop an end-to-end process for commercially viable production of BioJET – JP-8 spec jet fuel from biomass. The complete, multi-threaded process has a target of 70 percent efficiency and a target process cost of $2/gallon while using all of the biomass, including the lignin. Bids were solicited by Broad Agency Announcement and 17 bids were received. Defense Advanced Research Projects, Arlington, Va., is the contracting agency (HR0011-09-C-0075).
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $15,858,384 firm fixed price contract Global Geospatial Intelligence (GGI) Product Pricing Consolidated Task Order (PPCTO) for multiple geospatial data products to be procured at firm fixed price product pricing throughout the period Mar. 31, 2009 thru Jan. 13, 2010. Work is to be performed at Chantilly, Va., (43 percent) and St. Louis, Mo., (57 percent), with an estimated completion date of Jan. 13, 2011. National Geospatial – Intelligence Agency, ACSM, St. Louis, Mo., is the contracting activity (NMA302-03-D-0007).
J&S Construction Co., Inc., Cookeville, Tenn., was awarded on Mar. 31, 2009, a $12,824,050 firm fixed price contract for design and construction of Special Operations Forces Tactical Equipment Shop at Fort Campbell, Ky. Estimated completion date is Jul. 24, 2010. Solicited bids were posted on the Web with eight bids received. Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0023).
Manhattan Torcon A joint Venture, Falls Church Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009 a $333,000,000 firm fixed price contract for the replacement of the facility at Fort Detrick in Fredrick, Md. Work is to be performed at Fort Detrick, Frederick, Md., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 5, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Baltimore, Md., is the contracting activity (W912DR-09-C-0026).
Raytheon Co., Andover, Mass., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $114,864,781 firm fixed price contract to provide Patriot Pure Fleet Grow the Army (4Lot). Work is to be performed at Andover, Mass., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q07-C-0151).
General Dynamic Armament and Technical Production, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, with a $37,876,787 firm fixed price contract for 158 Bradley Reactive Armor Tile Sets for the Bradley fighting vehicle system. Work is to be performed at multiple locations with an estimated completions date of Jul. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munition & Lethality, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-06-C-0143).
DATRON World Communications, INC., Vista, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009 a $25,408,728 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for tactical very high frequency radios with ancillary items, spare parts and installation kits for Foreign Military Sales case. Work is to be performed at Vista, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 20, 2014. One sole source bid was solicited and one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J. is the contracting activity (W15P7T-09-D-D212).
CACI INC FEDERAL, Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $22,043,216 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with cost plus award fee with the purpose of Genesis III to acquire comprehensive engineering and logistics support for the intelligence community (IC) ground and air-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems at worldwide locations. Work is to be performed at multiple overseas and stateside locations with an estimated completion date of Mar. 27, 2013. Bids were solicited on the Web with two bids received. U.S. Army, Intelligence and Security Command, Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W911W4-09-D-0001).
Anderson Construction Co., of Fort Gaines, Fort Gaines, Ga., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $11,291,309 firm fixed price contract to design/build an Air and Space basic course. Work is to be performed at Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery with an estimated completion date of Nov.13, 2009. Bids were solicited on the FedBizOpps with ten bids received. Contract Office Corps of Engineers, Mobile Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-09—0021).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, an $11,265,660 firm fixed price contract with cost plus fixed fee, line items contract for the Viper Strike Munitions and engineering services. Work is to be performed at Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated completion date of Apr. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala, is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-07-C-0268).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Sunnyvale, Calif., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $9,933,420 cost shipping contract for Lockheed Martin to demonstrate a turbulence control method in order to improve power flux on target high speed flight. Work is to be performed at Sunnyvale, Calif., (13 percent) and Fort Worth, Texas, (87percent), with an estimated completion date of Nov. 8, 2011. One sole source bid was solicited and one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HR0011-08-C-0090).
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $7,209,828 firm fixed price contract for architect engineering services for facility design, Consolidated Intelligence Center, Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Germany. Estimated completion date is Mar. 17, 2010. Information was not provided for bids solicited or received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Europe District, Wiesbaden, Germany, is the contracting activity (W912DR-08-D-0001).
Marsh Creek Environmental Services, LLC, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $6,122,382.00 firm fixed price contract for Federal Underutilized Defense Sites (FUDS) – Umiat Well #9, Umiat, Alaska. The Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for the decommissioning of Umiat Well No. 9. FUDS is responsible for cleanup of the contamination surrounding the well up to the well casing. Polychlorinated bi-phenol (PCB) soil contamination at Umiat Test Well No. 9 was introduced in the drilling mud, as PCBs and petroleum (POL) contaminated soil adjacent to the wellhead and in a nearby bum area. This estimated total has increased significantly. Work is to be performed at Prudhoe Bay, North Slope Borough, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Sep. 29, 2009. Bids were solicited on the Web with one bid received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, Contracting Division, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity W911KB-08-C-0024).
Phil Howry Co., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Mar. 27, 2009, a $5,885,533 firm fixed price contract to provide construction of a 14,000 square foot one-story facility, consoling of a 60ft. X 60 ft. simulator bay, briefing rooms, conference room, mass briefing area and computer room. Work is to be performed at Curry County, New Mexico, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 19, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web and ten bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Albuquerque, N.M., is the contracting activity (W912PP-09-0006).
Tompkins Builders, Inc., Washington, D.C., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, a $56,700,000 firm fixed price contract for a design build project for the Training and Doctrine Command Headquarters (TRADOC HQ) at Fort Eustis, Va. The project includes construction of a New Headquarters Building of (263,676 square foot) and construction of a New TRADOC Band Building (18,841 square foot) and the required supporting facilities and site improvements. Work is to be performed at Fort Eustis, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 15, 2011. 80 bids were solicited and four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer, Norfolk District, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (W91236-09-C-0035).
CAE USA, INC., Tampa, Fla., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, an $18,175,231 firm fixed price contract for modifications and upgrades needed for Special Operation Aviation. Work is to be performed at Tampa, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 2011. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-01-D-0725-0003).
Olin Corp., East Alton, Ill., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, an $11,766,647.00, firm fixed price contract for 9mm Ammunition, 85,540,500 each. Work will be performed at East Alton, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited and two bids received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-06-D-0031).
Lincoln Public Schools, Lincoln Mass., was awarded on Mar. 26, 2009, a $10,476,451 firm fixed price contract for the provision of comprehensive education program services, grades preK-8, for eligible DoD family members residing on Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass. Estimated completion date is Jun. 30, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with one bid received. DDESS, Peachtree City, Ga., is the contracting activity (HE1254-07-C-0005).
Watterson/Davis JV, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $38,588,284 firm fixed price contract for which the procured service is the design and construction of the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve F-22 squadron operations/aircraft maintenance unit (AMU)/6-bay hangar facility, (PROJ: ELM297/292) at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. Estimated completion date is Mar. 24, 2011. Eight bids were solicited with four bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-07-D-0013).
Doyon-American Mechanical, JV, Fairbanks, Alaska, was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $10,700,983 firm fixed price contract to construct a Stryker wash facility (PN63006) at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Estimated completion date is Sep. 21, 2010. Seven bids were solicited and four bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-08-D-0010).
R.C. Heath Construction Co., DBA Heath Construction Co., Fort Collins, Colo., was awarded on Mar. 25, 2009, a $6,765,498 firm fixed price construction contract for renovation of historical dormitory 236, at FE Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Estimated completion date is Oct. 30, 2010. Bids were solicited on the Web with 12 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity (W9128F-09-C-0004).
General Dynamics Information Technology, Needham, Mass., was awarded on Mar. 24, 2009, an $8,716,903 firm fixed price contract to furnish, install, test, document, and cutover a turnkey solution to upgrade the existing infrastructure and facilities at Picatinny Arsenal. Work is to be performed at Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 23, 2010. Ten bids were solicited and five bids received. Army Contracting Command, ITEC4, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W91QUZ-06-D-0026).
Intersteel, Lexington, Ky., was awarded on Mar. 24, 2009, an $8,216,000 firm fixed price contract for the design build renovation of building 2369. Work is to be performed at Ft. Knox, Ky., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 15, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0021).
Jones Lang Lasalle Americas, Inc., Washington, D.C., was awarded on Mar. 14, 2009, a $6,409,402.41 firm fixed price contract for Privatization initiative to include: Residential Communities Initiative Survey, SOUTHCOM Feasibility Research, and support to the Army's Portfolio and Asset Management Process. Work is to be performed at Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Sep. 30, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Contracting Center of Excellence, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W91WAW-09-C-0054).
NAVY
Raytheon Co., Space and Airborne Systems, El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a $54,481,204 firm fixed price contract for the procurement of 19 AN/APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array radars to be retrofitted into F/A-18E/F aircraft Lots 26-29. The radars will replace the APG-73 radars currently installed in the aircraft. Work will be performed in Forest, Miss., (43 percent); Dallas, Texas (29 percent); El Segundo, Calif., (27 percent); and Andover, Mass., (1 percent) and is expected to be completed in Dec. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-C-0003).
USA Environmental, Inc.*, Oldsmar, Fla., is being awarded an $11,530,118 cost plus award fee task order modification JN03-01 under a previously awarded Munitions Response contract (N62742-05-D-1868) for Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) removal at former Vieques Naval Training Range (VNTR). The work to be performed provides for the removal of surface and subsurface MEC at the live impact area, surface impact area, eastern conservation area and the eastern maneuver area. The task order will be incrementally funded with the first increment of $7,000,550 being allocated at the time of award. The second increment will be funded later in FY09 at $4,529,568. Work will be performed in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and is expected to be completed by Apr. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
NATO Brings Albania, Croatia Into Security Alliance Fold
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - Ahead of the NATO 60th anniversary, the collective security alliance yesterday added Albania and Croatia as its newest members. The enlargement marks only the sixth time the organization has expanded its borders, and brings to 28 the number of allies that will celebrate six decades since a dozen nations endorsed the North Atlantic Treaty at an April 4, 1949, ceremony here.
NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer welcomed the alliance's newest members in a statement from the NATO headquarters in Brussels yesterday.
"In becoming NATO members, Albania and Croatia share the benefits and responsibilities of collective security," he said.
Further enlargement is expected to be one of the topics covered at the NATO summit to take place tomorrow and April 4 in Strasbourg, France, and Kehl, Germany, where the two Balkan nations will be ceremonially inducted into the alliance.
A flag-raising ceremony marking the inclusion of Albania and Croatia is scheduled at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on April 7.
Accession by the two Balkan nations follows the addition of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania in 2004; Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland in 1999; Spain in 1982; West Germany in 1955; and Greece and Turkey in 1952.
The founding NATO members were the United States, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom.
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - Ahead of the NATO 60th anniversary, the collective security alliance yesterday added Albania and Croatia as its newest members. The enlargement marks only the sixth time the organization has expanded its borders, and brings to 28 the number of allies that will celebrate six decades since a dozen nations endorsed the North Atlantic Treaty at an April 4, 1949, ceremony here.
NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer welcomed the alliance's newest members in a statement from the NATO headquarters in Brussels yesterday.
"In becoming NATO members, Albania and Croatia share the benefits and responsibilities of collective security," he said.
Further enlargement is expected to be one of the topics covered at the NATO summit to take place tomorrow and April 4 in Strasbourg, France, and Kehl, Germany, where the two Balkan nations will be ceremonially inducted into the alliance.
A flag-raising ceremony marking the inclusion of Albania and Croatia is scheduled at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on April 7.
Accession by the two Balkan nations follows the addition of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania in 2004; Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland in 1999; Spain in 1982; West Germany in 1955; and Greece and Turkey in 1952.
The founding NATO members were the United States, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom.
Airman Missing In Action From The Vietnam War Is Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. airman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
He is Lt. Col. Earl P. Hopper Jr., U.S. Air Force, of Phoenix, Ariz. He is to be buried on April 3 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix.
On Jan. 10, 1968, Hopper and Capt. Keith Hall were flying an F-4D Phantom near Hanoi, North Vietnam, as part of a four-ship MiG combat air patrol. Before they reached the target, an enemy surface-to-air missile exploded slightly below their aircraft. Hall radioed that he and Hopper were ejecting. He told Hopper to eject, but when he heard no response, he repeated "Earl get out!" Hopper replied, "I've pulled on it and it [the ejection seat] did not go," followed by "you go!" Hall then pulled on his primary ejection handle but it failed to initiate, forcing him to use the alternate. Hall was captured and held as a prisoner of war until 1973, but Hopper was unable to get out of the aircraft.
Between 1993-1998, the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) conducted three joint investigations and five excavations at the crash site in Son La Province, west of Hanoi. The team interviewed four informants who had knowledge of the site. The excavations recovered numerous skeletal fragments and crew-related items which were ultimately used in the forensic identification process.
Among other forensic tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists used extensive dental comparisons in the identification of the remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169 or (703) 699-1420.
He is Lt. Col. Earl P. Hopper Jr., U.S. Air Force, of Phoenix, Ariz. He is to be buried on April 3 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix.
On Jan. 10, 1968, Hopper and Capt. Keith Hall were flying an F-4D Phantom near Hanoi, North Vietnam, as part of a four-ship MiG combat air patrol. Before they reached the target, an enemy surface-to-air missile exploded slightly below their aircraft. Hall radioed that he and Hopper were ejecting. He told Hopper to eject, but when he heard no response, he repeated "Earl get out!" Hopper replied, "I've pulled on it and it [the ejection seat] did not go," followed by "you go!" Hall then pulled on his primary ejection handle but it failed to initiate, forcing him to use the alternate. Hall was captured and held as a prisoner of war until 1973, but Hopper was unable to get out of the aircraft.
Between 1993-1998, the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) conducted three joint investigations and five excavations at the crash site in Son La Province, west of Hanoi. The team interviewed four informants who had knowledge of the site. The excavations recovered numerous skeletal fragments and crew-related items which were ultimately used in the forensic identification process.
Among other forensic tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists used extensive dental comparisons in the identification of the remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169 or (703) 699-1420.
Face of Defense: Soldier Cooks His Way to Culinary Big Leagues
By Army Staff Sgt. Mike PryorSpecial to American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - Army Sgt. Orlando Serna has a bone to pick with anyone who thinks cooking is nothing more than throwing a few ingredients together in a pot. "It's a science. Everything is a formula," said Serna, a cook with the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
Serna's precision and attention to detail inside the kitchen enabled him to clean house at the 34th annual U.S. Army Culinary Arts Competition held at Fort Lee, Va., last month. Serna won three individual awards and helped the Fort Bragg team claim Installation of the Year honors. Additionally, Serna was selected to join the U.S. Army Culinary Arts Team -- the culinary equivalent of the Olympic "Dream Team."
"It's huge," Serna, 32, of Atlanta, said. Serna and the rest of the Army's culinary team will face off against cooks from all over the world during the World Culinary Olympics in 2010.
Serna's recent accomplishments in the kitchen had humble beginnings. When he first joined the Army in 1998, the only thing he knew how to make was cookies, he said.
But after a three-year stint as a cook with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, during which he helped Fort Bragg to an Installation of the Year title in 2000, Serna knew he had found his calling. He left the Army to pursue an advanced degree in culinary technology. In 2008, armed with new skills and new techniques, Serna joined back up again, and he has been cooking his way to the top ever since.
Serna's area of expertise is baking. He sounds like a NASA scientist as he rattles off butter ratios, browning-point temperatures, caramelization differences between sugars, and the technique required to get the perfect consistency on a chilled chocolate mousse.
"I like the geek stuff," Serna said.
That painstaking attention to detail is what separates Serna from the rest of the pack. At the Culinary Arts Competition, a dessert centerpiece he created portraying the Muppet character "Animal" took 36 hours of work to craft, but in the end it won the "Most Artistic Exhibit in Show" award.
Despite his individual achievements, Serna was quick to give credit to the soldiers at his unit dining facility.
"At the end of the day, it's not just you, it's your whole [dining facility] behind you picking up the slack that allows you to succeed," he said.
Serna also was proud of the performance of his teammate Army Sgt. Michael Williams, who was his apprentice during the competition and won a Bronze Medal.
"He has a long future out there," Serna predicted.
Like any soldier, Serna said he knows he will be judged on how well he passes on what he knows to his subordinates.
"You can't keep that knowledge to yourself," he said.
The one group that won't be benefitting from Serna's expertise in the kitchen is his family. At home, he said, he keeps the cooking simple. What does he mostly eat there?
"A lot of cereal; quick and easy, you know?" he said.
(Army Staff Sgt. Mike Pryor serves with the 82nd Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team public affairs office.)
Obama Praises U.S.-South Korea Alliance at London Summit
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - South Korea is a vital ally and firm friend of the United States, President Barack Obama said today while attending the Group of 20 international economic conference in London. Officially known as the Republic of Korea, South Korea "is one of America's closest allies and greatest friends," Obama told reporters just before he met with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak.
And, under Lee's leadership, Obama said, the friendship between the United States and South Korea "has only grown stronger."
The annual G-20 economic summit is a venue for consultation on the global financial system. It features participation by the world's 19 largest economies, plus the European Union.
South Korea has the fourth largest economy in Asia and boasts one of the world's fastest-growing advanced economic systems.
The United States, Obama said, is keen to discuss issues related to the current global economic downturn at the London conference.
Yet, there are other important issues at hand, Obama said before meeting with Lee, including the topics of defense, peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, South Korea's contributions in Afghanistan, and it's global leadership role on climate change.
Afterward, a senior U.S. administration official told reporters that the two chief executives enjoyed a "warm meeting," and that Obama invited Lee to visit him in Washington in June.
There also "was a fair amount of discussion of the North Korean issue," the official said. North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, recently announced its intent to test-launch another ballistic missile within the next few days.
A North Korean missile launch would be a violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1718, the U.S. official said, noting that the United States and South Korea would consult closely about how to respond firmly at the U.N. if the launch occurs.
Meanwhile, the official said, there is a "general expectation" that the North Koreans will proceed with the launch.
"But, we have been making maximum efforts to try to dissuade them, and still hope that they may change their minds," the U.S. official added.
Obama and Lee also had discussed ongoing efforts to persuade North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program, the official said. North Korea, according to the official, would not be able to drive a wedge between the United States and South Korea.
Obama praised Lee's "calm resolve and restraint and steadfastness" in the face of North Korea's recent actions, the U.S. official said.
North Korea invaded U.S. ally South Korea in June 1950. The ensuing Korean War, in which United States and U.N. combat troops deployed to the Korean peninsula to drive out the North Koreans, eventually brought the People's Republic of China into the conflict on the side of the North Koreans. A truce was signed in 1953.
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - South Korea is a vital ally and firm friend of the United States, President Barack Obama said today while attending the Group of 20 international economic conference in London. Officially known as the Republic of Korea, South Korea "is one of America's closest allies and greatest friends," Obama told reporters just before he met with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak.
And, under Lee's leadership, Obama said, the friendship between the United States and South Korea "has only grown stronger."
The annual G-20 economic summit is a venue for consultation on the global financial system. It features participation by the world's 19 largest economies, plus the European Union.
South Korea has the fourth largest economy in Asia and boasts one of the world's fastest-growing advanced economic systems.
The United States, Obama said, is keen to discuss issues related to the current global economic downturn at the London conference.
Yet, there are other important issues at hand, Obama said before meeting with Lee, including the topics of defense, peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, South Korea's contributions in Afghanistan, and it's global leadership role on climate change.
Afterward, a senior U.S. administration official told reporters that the two chief executives enjoyed a "warm meeting," and that Obama invited Lee to visit him in Washington in June.
There also "was a fair amount of discussion of the North Korean issue," the official said. North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, recently announced its intent to test-launch another ballistic missile within the next few days.
A North Korean missile launch would be a violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1718, the U.S. official said, noting that the United States and South Korea would consult closely about how to respond firmly at the U.N. if the launch occurs.
Meanwhile, the official said, there is a "general expectation" that the North Koreans will proceed with the launch.
"But, we have been making maximum efforts to try to dissuade them, and still hope that they may change their minds," the U.S. official added.
Obama and Lee also had discussed ongoing efforts to persuade North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program, the official said. North Korea, according to the official, would not be able to drive a wedge between the United States and South Korea.
Obama praised Lee's "calm resolve and restraint and steadfastness" in the face of North Korea's recent actions, the U.S. official said.
North Korea invaded U.S. ally South Korea in June 1950. The ensuing Korean War, in which United States and U.N. combat troops deployed to the Korean peninsula to drive out the North Koreans, eventually brought the People's Republic of China into the conflict on the side of the North Koreans. A truce was signed in 1953.
Bataan Memorial Death March Honors World War II Soldiers
By Army Staff Sgt. Anna DooSpecial to American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - The resounding boom of cannon fire broke the sound of thousands of participants talking as they waited in anticipation March 29 for the start of the 2009 Bataan Memorial Death March. This year, the 26.2-mile event at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., included more than 5,300 participants from 50 states and eight countries, including the Philippines, Germany, Canada and the United Kingdom.
While individuals marched for their own reasons, they all came together for the same purpose: to honor the soldiers, who were part of the Bataan Death March during World War II.
The Bataan Death March occurred in 1942 after the Japanese attacked the Bataan peninsula in the Philippines, where American and Filipino soldiers were stationed. After three months of fighting the Japanese with insufficient weapons and dwindling supplies, the American and Filipino soldiers were ordered to surrender April 9, 1942.
The Japanese forced the soldiers to march more than 60 miles with nearly no food or water. The prisoners were subjected to heinous acts of torture and many were killed or perished while marching. Some of the soldiers who survived the march spent the next three years in Japanese prisoner of war camps until freed in 1945.
The opening ceremony for the march included a roll call of the New Mexico National Guard survivors, who were members of the 200th and 515th Coast Artillery units.
One by one, the names of those living and deceased were called out as a reminder of what's called America's "Greatest Generation."
Some of the Bataan survivors lined up along the starting line and shook hands with the racers as a show of gratitude to those who were marching in their honor.
Young and old marched side by side on the rugged terrain with runners, military personnel carrying rucksacks weighing at least 35 pounds, and wounded warriors marching on prosthetic limbs.
Each participant was determined to finish the march and could be heard inspiring others no matter how much their body ached and feet hurt.
Tabitha Baker recalled the moment she crossed the finish line. "The proudest moment was ... seeing the survivors waiting there to commemorate the participants for completing the march. As I shook the survivor's hand I said, 'It is an honor to meet you.' He looked at me, held my hand and answered, 'No, it is an honor to meet you.'
"It is amazing to see these men ... have so much pride and admiration for the soldiers of today."
As each year passes, there are fewer living Bataan veterans, but the responsibility to keep the memory alive
will never perish.
(Army Staff Sgt. Anna Doo serves with the New Mexico National Guard.)
Defense Department Celebrates Military Children in April
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - The Defense Department and communities throughout the world will continue the 23-year tradition of recognizing the importance of military children in the month of April. The Month of the Military Child, first celebrated in 1986, is especially important today, said Arthur J. Myers, acting deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy.
"Children are our nation's unsung heroes," Myers said. "This month-long recognition is a time set aside to acknowledge the important role that children play in the lives of their military parents and express appreciation for their service. This is our chance to thank them for being so supportive of their parents."
About 1.9 million children are part of the military family, and more than two-thirds have had a parent deploy, Myers said. Their role is unique and quietly significant.
"The military lifestyle is tough for kids," he said. "Multiple moves, new schools, saying goodbye to old friends, needing to make new friends -- none of this is easy. And there are many missed special occasions and developmental milestones because of military duties.
"While military parents know this and respect the sacrifices their children make, the nation is largely unaware," he continued. "This is why April is such an important month in military communities. The activities and special recognition help to express gratitude for these contributions."
Military installations, schools and local communities around the world will host ceremonies and special activities throughout the month. Myers encourages families to participate.
"We are grateful to our many community partners who join in this salute," he said. "Let's remember that kids serve, too."
(From a Defense Department news release.)
April 2, 2009 - The Defense Department and communities throughout the world will continue the 23-year tradition of recognizing the importance of military children in the month of April. The Month of the Military Child, first celebrated in 1986, is especially important today, said Arthur J. Myers, acting deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy.
"Children are our nation's unsung heroes," Myers said. "This month-long recognition is a time set aside to acknowledge the important role that children play in the lives of their military parents and express appreciation for their service. This is our chance to thank them for being so supportive of their parents."
About 1.9 million children are part of the military family, and more than two-thirds have had a parent deploy, Myers said. Their role is unique and quietly significant.
"The military lifestyle is tough for kids," he said. "Multiple moves, new schools, saying goodbye to old friends, needing to make new friends -- none of this is easy. And there are many missed special occasions and developmental milestones because of military duties.
"While military parents know this and respect the sacrifices their children make, the nation is largely unaware," he continued. "This is why April is such an important month in military communities. The activities and special recognition help to express gratitude for these contributions."
Military installations, schools and local communities around the world will host ceremonies and special activities throughout the month. Myers encourages families to participate.
"We are grateful to our many community partners who join in this salute," he said. "Let's remember that kids serve, too."
(From a Defense Department news release.)
NATO Prepares for Historic Anniversary, Summit
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - NATO leaders are slated to focus on a broad range of issues at the summit in Strasbourg, France, and Kehl, Germany, this week against the backdrop of the alliance's 60th anniversary. President Barack Obama will lead the U.S. delegation during meetings in which the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan is expected to take center stage. The United States worked closely among NATO allies on an Afghan-Pakistan strategy review the Obama administration unveiled last week.
"We believe that we are going to be able to ensure that the NATO members who've made so many sacrifices and have been working so hard already are reinvigorated, and that the coordination that's going to be taking place will make it even more effective for us as we complete a successful NATO mission," Obama said after meeting at the White House last week with NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer.
Ahead of the summit's formal start tomorrow, the alliance today officially added two new members -- Albania and Croatia -- raising to 28 the number of allies that will celebrate six decades since a dozen nations endorsed the North Atlantic Treaty at an April 4, 1949, ceremony here.
De Hoop Scheffer noted that the anniversary would be a time not only to reflect on past successes, but also to look ahead.
"The summit must be more than a celebration," he said in a statement on the NATO Web site. "It must also deliver results in order for our alliance to be able to meet current and future challenges."
The summit's agenda comprises issues beyond the scope of the NATO mission in Afghanistan, as Obama noted after his meeting with the NATO secretary general.
"We have a set of challenges that require NATO to shift from the 20th century to the 21st century; issues of terrorism, failed states, nuclear proliferation, a whole host of new challenges as well as the traditional role that NATO has played in preserving the territorial integrity of NATO members," he said.
Topics of interest include NATO's stabilization operation in Kosovo, NATO-Russia relations, arms control and future expansion.
Today's enlargement of the alliance marks only the sixth time in NATO history that the collective security organization has expanded its borders. Accession by the two Balkan nations follows the addition of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania in 2004; Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland in 1999; Spain in 1982; West Germany in 1955; and Greece and Turkey in 1952.
The founding NATO members were the United States, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom.
De Hoop Scheffer welcomed the alliance's newest members in a statement from the NATO headquarters in Brussels today.
"In becoming NATO members, Albania and Croatia share the benefits and responsibilities of collective security," he said.
American Forces Press Service
April 2, 2009 - NATO leaders are slated to focus on a broad range of issues at the summit in Strasbourg, France, and Kehl, Germany, this week against the backdrop of the alliance's 60th anniversary. President Barack Obama will lead the U.S. delegation during meetings in which the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan is expected to take center stage. The United States worked closely among NATO allies on an Afghan-Pakistan strategy review the Obama administration unveiled last week.
"We believe that we are going to be able to ensure that the NATO members who've made so many sacrifices and have been working so hard already are reinvigorated, and that the coordination that's going to be taking place will make it even more effective for us as we complete a successful NATO mission," Obama said after meeting at the White House last week with NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer.
Ahead of the summit's formal start tomorrow, the alliance today officially added two new members -- Albania and Croatia -- raising to 28 the number of allies that will celebrate six decades since a dozen nations endorsed the North Atlantic Treaty at an April 4, 1949, ceremony here.
De Hoop Scheffer noted that the anniversary would be a time not only to reflect on past successes, but also to look ahead.
"The summit must be more than a celebration," he said in a statement on the NATO Web site. "It must also deliver results in order for our alliance to be able to meet current and future challenges."
The summit's agenda comprises issues beyond the scope of the NATO mission in Afghanistan, as Obama noted after his meeting with the NATO secretary general.
"We have a set of challenges that require NATO to shift from the 20th century to the 21st century; issues of terrorism, failed states, nuclear proliferation, a whole host of new challenges as well as the traditional role that NATO has played in preserving the territorial integrity of NATO members," he said.
Topics of interest include NATO's stabilization operation in Kosovo, NATO-Russia relations, arms control and future expansion.
Today's enlargement of the alliance marks only the sixth time in NATO history that the collective security organization has expanded its borders. Accession by the two Balkan nations follows the addition of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania in 2004; Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland in 1999; Spain in 1982; West Germany in 1955; and Greece and Turkey in 1952.
The founding NATO members were the United States, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom.
De Hoop Scheffer welcomed the alliance's newest members in a statement from the NATO headquarters in Brussels today.
"In becoming NATO members, Albania and Croatia share the benefits and responsibilities of collective security," he said.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 1, 2009
NAVY
General Dynamics-Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine, is being awarded a basic ordering agreement with a potential value of up to $47,400,000 for Post-Shakedown Availability (PSA) for DDG 51 Class Destroyers. The orders to be issued are for PSA planning and support services and will include advance planning, engineering support, on-site engineering liaison, craft assistance, the ordering and processing of required material in support of PSAs, and the accomplishment of emergent industrial availabilities. Emergent industrial availabilities include, but are not limited to, restricted availabilities, drydocking availabilities, and technical availabilities which may be required from time of ship's delivery through the SCN Obligation Work and Limiting Date (OWLD). Work will be performed in Bath, Maine, (60 percent), and in the ships' homeport (40 percent) which may include Norfolk, Va., San Diego, Calif., Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and Mayport, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-G-2304).
American Defense Systems, Inc., Hicksville, N.Y., is being awarded a $29,999,382 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with a maximum ordering quantity of 206 Add on Armor (AoA) Crew Protection Kits (CPK), associated manuals and spares parts kits. The initial delivery order is for Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) 0001 through 0011 available on the contract and is valued at $16,027,057.87. Work will be performed in Hicksville, N.Y., and work is expected to be complete by Mar. 31, 2012. Contract funds will not expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is a sole source award to American Defense Systems, Inc. as they are the sole manufacturer of the Add on Armor (AoA) Crew Protection Kits (CPK). The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-5069).
Insitu, Inc., Bingen, Wash., is being awarded a $20,917,403 firm fixed price contract for the procurement of ScanEagle Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) hardware for four operational sites, 3 spare/operational float packages, and critical spares kits in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) missions. Work will be performed in Bingen, Wash., and is expected to be completed in Jul. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to the FAR 6.302-2. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-C-0005).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Archbald, Pa., is being awarded a $16,531,431 not-to-exceed order against a previously awarded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract (N00019-05-D-0020) for the procurement of 9,303 enhanced laser-guided training rounds and containers. Work will be performed in Archbald, Pa., and is expected to be completed in April 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems TSS Inc., Rockville, Md., is being awarded a $10,538,835 modification to previously awarded delivery order (N00024-08-F-B062) to provide engineering, technical, professional and operations support services for the Navy Above Water Sensors Program. The contract shall provide engineering, technical, professional, and operations support services in the program areas of program management, financial management, engineering, test and evaluation, and logistics for above water radar systems. Work will be performed in Washington, D.C., and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $1,040,429 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C. is the contracting activity.
Wyle Laboratories, Inc., Huntsville, Ala., is being awarded a $10,366,346 modification to a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee contract (N00421-08-C-0025) to exercise an option for services to support the Naval Test Wing Atlantic and Naval Test Wing Pacific with operation, scheduling, and aircrew support. The estimated level of effort for this option is 118,600 man-hours. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., and is expected to be completed in Mar. 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $627,642 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Rockwell Collins Government Systems, Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a $7,640,028 modification to a previously awarded firm fixed priced contract (N00019-05-C-0050) to exercise an option for the FY 2009 production of the AN/ARC-210(V) Electronic Protection Radio Systems for the U.S. Air Force F-16 Block 40-50 aircraft. This modification provides for 118 MT-4935/ARC mounting bases, and 118 RT-1851A (C)/ARC receiver-transmitters. Work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed in Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Chesapeake Sciences Corporation, Millersville, Md., is being awarded a $7,398,262 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-6223) to exercise an option to procure 10 additional TB-34 Towed Bodies and associated interface hardware. The TB-34 Towed Body Arrays consists of one Array and Tow Cable, including Inboard Termination Hardware that will be deployed on submarines. Work will be performed in Millersville, Md., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Tekia Research Inc., Woodbridge, Va., is being awarded a $5,585,348 modification (P00124) under a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee term contract (N000173-05-C-2056) for research and development support services. Work will be performed at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C., and work is expected to be completed Jul. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. Modification
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Outdoor Venture Corporation, Stearns, Ky.*, is being awarded a maximum $35,753,790 fixed price with economic price adjustment, total set-aside, indefinite delivery contract for modular general purpose tent system. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. The proposal was originally Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is October 31, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-09-D-0019).
General Dynamics-Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine, is being awarded a basic ordering agreement with a potential value of up to $47,400,000 for Post-Shakedown Availability (PSA) for DDG 51 Class Destroyers. The orders to be issued are for PSA planning and support services and will include advance planning, engineering support, on-site engineering liaison, craft assistance, the ordering and processing of required material in support of PSAs, and the accomplishment of emergent industrial availabilities. Emergent industrial availabilities include, but are not limited to, restricted availabilities, drydocking availabilities, and technical availabilities which may be required from time of ship's delivery through the SCN Obligation Work and Limiting Date (OWLD). Work will be performed in Bath, Maine, (60 percent), and in the ships' homeport (40 percent) which may include Norfolk, Va., San Diego, Calif., Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and Mayport, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-G-2304).
American Defense Systems, Inc., Hicksville, N.Y., is being awarded a $29,999,382 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with a maximum ordering quantity of 206 Add on Armor (AoA) Crew Protection Kits (CPK), associated manuals and spares parts kits. The initial delivery order is for Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) 0001 through 0011 available on the contract and is valued at $16,027,057.87. Work will be performed in Hicksville, N.Y., and work is expected to be complete by Mar. 31, 2012. Contract funds will not expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is a sole source award to American Defense Systems, Inc. as they are the sole manufacturer of the Add on Armor (AoA) Crew Protection Kits (CPK). The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-5069).
Insitu, Inc., Bingen, Wash., is being awarded a $20,917,403 firm fixed price contract for the procurement of ScanEagle Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) hardware for four operational sites, 3 spare/operational float packages, and critical spares kits in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) missions. Work will be performed in Bingen, Wash., and is expected to be completed in Jul. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to the FAR 6.302-2. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-C-0005).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Archbald, Pa., is being awarded a $16,531,431 not-to-exceed order against a previously awarded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract (N00019-05-D-0020) for the procurement of 9,303 enhanced laser-guided training rounds and containers. Work will be performed in Archbald, Pa., and is expected to be completed in April 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems TSS Inc., Rockville, Md., is being awarded a $10,538,835 modification to previously awarded delivery order (N00024-08-F-B062) to provide engineering, technical, professional and operations support services for the Navy Above Water Sensors Program. The contract shall provide engineering, technical, professional, and operations support services in the program areas of program management, financial management, engineering, test and evaluation, and logistics for above water radar systems. Work will be performed in Washington, D.C., and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $1,040,429 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C. is the contracting activity.
Wyle Laboratories, Inc., Huntsville, Ala., is being awarded a $10,366,346 modification to a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee contract (N00421-08-C-0025) to exercise an option for services to support the Naval Test Wing Atlantic and Naval Test Wing Pacific with operation, scheduling, and aircrew support. The estimated level of effort for this option is 118,600 man-hours. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., and is expected to be completed in Mar. 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $627,642 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Rockwell Collins Government Systems, Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a $7,640,028 modification to a previously awarded firm fixed priced contract (N00019-05-C-0050) to exercise an option for the FY 2009 production of the AN/ARC-210(V) Electronic Protection Radio Systems for the U.S. Air Force F-16 Block 40-50 aircraft. This modification provides for 118 MT-4935/ARC mounting bases, and 118 RT-1851A (C)/ARC receiver-transmitters. Work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed in Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Chesapeake Sciences Corporation, Millersville, Md., is being awarded a $7,398,262 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-6223) to exercise an option to procure 10 additional TB-34 Towed Bodies and associated interface hardware. The TB-34 Towed Body Arrays consists of one Array and Tow Cable, including Inboard Termination Hardware that will be deployed on submarines. Work will be performed in Millersville, Md., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Tekia Research Inc., Woodbridge, Va., is being awarded a $5,585,348 modification (P00124) under a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee term contract (N000173-05-C-2056) for research and development support services. Work will be performed at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C., and work is expected to be completed Jul. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. Modification
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Outdoor Venture Corporation, Stearns, Ky.*, is being awarded a maximum $35,753,790 fixed price with economic price adjustment, total set-aside, indefinite delivery contract for modular general purpose tent system. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. The proposal was originally Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is October 31, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-09-D-0019).
Defense Department Program Aims to Create New Biodiesel Fuel
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - Ever imagine filling up the fuel tanks on a military aircraft with french fry grease? It's no April Fools' Day joke -- that's exactly what the Air Force could do someday if a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency research program proves successful. DARPA is the Defense Department's scientific agency that pushes the envelope toward what Anthony J. Tether, its long-time previous director, described as "the far side" of science and technology development to support military requirements.
So in an effort to reduce the military's huge reliance on imported oil, DARPA is on the fast track exploring ways to convert so-called "yellow grease oil" or plant-based "cellulosic and algae sources" into JP8 jet fuel.
The goal, explained Barbara McQuiston, director of the Strategic Technology Office and program manager for biofuels, is to come up with nonpetroleum sources to power military aircraft, ground vehicles and non-nuclear ships. Two side benefits, she said, will be lower fuel costs and fewer environmentally unfriendly carbon emissions.
The DARPA-funded biofuels program has the scientific community looking into some seemingly unlikely petroleum alternatives: algae, seeds and corn husks among them. These crops produce a type of oil that can be converted through a complicated process into biofuel, McQuiston said.
The private sector is exploring this possibility, too, in the quest for cheaper, domestically produced fuel. In fact, several commercial airlines already have conducted test flights using a blend of petroleum and biofuel.
This research may have some military application, McQuiston said, but the biodiesel produced through current commercial processes isn't necessarily suitable for military uses. The military, for example, needs a fuel that meets exceptionally high standards; it must be as efficient at minus 20 degrees as at 140 degrees.
Some participants in the DARPA program have produced samples that meet these standards. They could, if produced in a big enough scale and at a low enough cost, potentially serve as stand-ins for JP8 jet fuel, McQuiston said.
Within the next few years, she said, she expects to have a proven biodiesel alternative that meets all the established requirements, and to be able to present it to the military services so they can consider using it.
"Our interest is in being able to prove out the technology and be able to demonstrate that these goals are achievable," she said. "We want to show that this can be done, and that it can be done within a feasible and manufactureable and scalable process."
Developing alternative energies has strategic importance to the United States, McQuiston said. "Being able to develop this alternative energy independence is good for the military, and it's good for the nation," she said.
This recognition, McQuiston said, is a great motivator for her and her team. "I think all of us are here because we want to do service to the country," she said. "And at DARPA, we get to be able to do this high-risk, high-return investment that we feel is critical to the nation. We're able to not only address some of the more challenging problems, but also to provide leadership into the future."
DARPA was established in response to the Russian Sputnik launch, and celebrated its 50th anniversary last month. Its work has built the foundations for the NASA space program, the World Wide Web and myriad other technologies.
Technologies developed by DARPA have revolutionized warfare as well. Stealth aircraft, advanced precision munitions and the Predator and Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles used in Iraq and Afghanistan today all began on DARPA's drawing boards.
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - Ever imagine filling up the fuel tanks on a military aircraft with french fry grease? It's no April Fools' Day joke -- that's exactly what the Air Force could do someday if a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency research program proves successful. DARPA is the Defense Department's scientific agency that pushes the envelope toward what Anthony J. Tether, its long-time previous director, described as "the far side" of science and technology development to support military requirements.
So in an effort to reduce the military's huge reliance on imported oil, DARPA is on the fast track exploring ways to convert so-called "yellow grease oil" or plant-based "cellulosic and algae sources" into JP8 jet fuel.
The goal, explained Barbara McQuiston, director of the Strategic Technology Office and program manager for biofuels, is to come up with nonpetroleum sources to power military aircraft, ground vehicles and non-nuclear ships. Two side benefits, she said, will be lower fuel costs and fewer environmentally unfriendly carbon emissions.
The DARPA-funded biofuels program has the scientific community looking into some seemingly unlikely petroleum alternatives: algae, seeds and corn husks among them. These crops produce a type of oil that can be converted through a complicated process into biofuel, McQuiston said.
The private sector is exploring this possibility, too, in the quest for cheaper, domestically produced fuel. In fact, several commercial airlines already have conducted test flights using a blend of petroleum and biofuel.
This research may have some military application, McQuiston said, but the biodiesel produced through current commercial processes isn't necessarily suitable for military uses. The military, for example, needs a fuel that meets exceptionally high standards; it must be as efficient at minus 20 degrees as at 140 degrees.
Some participants in the DARPA program have produced samples that meet these standards. They could, if produced in a big enough scale and at a low enough cost, potentially serve as stand-ins for JP8 jet fuel, McQuiston said.
Within the next few years, she said, she expects to have a proven biodiesel alternative that meets all the established requirements, and to be able to present it to the military services so they can consider using it.
"Our interest is in being able to prove out the technology and be able to demonstrate that these goals are achievable," she said. "We want to show that this can be done, and that it can be done within a feasible and manufactureable and scalable process."
Developing alternative energies has strategic importance to the United States, McQuiston said. "Being able to develop this alternative energy independence is good for the military, and it's good for the nation," she said.
This recognition, McQuiston said, is a great motivator for her and her team. "I think all of us are here because we want to do service to the country," she said. "And at DARPA, we get to be able to do this high-risk, high-return investment that we feel is critical to the nation. We're able to not only address some of the more challenging problems, but also to provide leadership into the future."
DARPA was established in response to the Russian Sputnik launch, and celebrated its 50th anniversary last month. Its work has built the foundations for the NASA space program, the World Wide Web and myriad other technologies.
Technologies developed by DARPA have revolutionized warfare as well. Stealth aircraft, advanced precision munitions and the Predator and Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles used in Iraq and Afghanistan today all began on DARPA's drawing boards.
Obama, Medvedev Commit to Reduce Nuclear Arms, Reset Relationship
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - The leaders of the world's two largest nuclear superpowers today agreed to start new talks aimed at reducing nuclear arms stockpiles, and to use the platform to "reset" relationships between the United States and Russia. "What I believe we've begun today is a very constructive dialogue that will allow us to work on issues of mutual interest," President Barack Obama said following his first meeting with Russian President Dmitriy Medvedev, held on the sidelines of the Group of 20 economic summit in London today.
Both presidents acknowledged a "drift" in relations between the United States and Russia, but said common interests should give them cause to work together.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, both leaders agreed "that the era when our countries viewed each other as enemies is long over," and pledged a "substantive agenda for Russia and the United States to be developed over the coming months and years."
"We ... are ready to move beyond Cold War mentalities and chart a fresh start in relations between our two countries," the statement reads.
In a separate news conference before the meeting, Obama said both countries have an interest in reducing nuclear stockpiles, reducing the threat of terrorism, and stabilizing the world economy. And, he said, nuclear arms talks are an ideal first front to begin moving the two countries toward common grounds.
"The presence of these deadly weapons, their proliferation, the possibility of them finding their way into the hands of terrorists, continues to be the gravest threat to humanity," Obama said.
In the joint statement, Obama and Medvedev agreed to strengthen their obligations under Article VI of the treaty on nonproliferation of nuclear weapons and to replace the strategic arms reduction treaty. Talks on the new treaty are to begin immediately, and the two leaders called for a report on results by July.
"We committed our two countries to achieving a nuclear free world," the statement reads.
Still, the two acknowledged that differences remain over missile defense assets in Europe.
The United States wants to base missile defense interceptors in Poland and associated radar in the Czech Republic. U.S. officials want to extend the zone of coverage in Europe for the potential long-range missile threat from Iran or others in the region.
Russian officials, however, have downplayed the threat from Iran and have been outspoken opponents of the plan. Both Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met with former Russian president Vladimir Putin and Medvedev in the past two years in Moscow for talks on the plan.
In the statement, though, the two leaders agreed to forge ahead on the missile defense discussions, and Medvedev later said he looks forward to meeting with Obama in Moscow in July.
"We discussed new possibilities for mutual international cooperation in the field of missile defense," the statement reads. "The relationship between offensive and defensive arms will be discussed by the two governments."
The statement also put Obama and Medvedev on the same side of the fight against al-Qaida and other insurgent groups operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and it expressed joint concern over a possible upcoming North Korean ballistic missile launch. The statement said the launch "would be damaging to peace and stability in the region."
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - The leaders of the world's two largest nuclear superpowers today agreed to start new talks aimed at reducing nuclear arms stockpiles, and to use the platform to "reset" relationships between the United States and Russia. "What I believe we've begun today is a very constructive dialogue that will allow us to work on issues of mutual interest," President Barack Obama said following his first meeting with Russian President Dmitriy Medvedev, held on the sidelines of the Group of 20 economic summit in London today.
Both presidents acknowledged a "drift" in relations between the United States and Russia, but said common interests should give them cause to work together.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, both leaders agreed "that the era when our countries viewed each other as enemies is long over," and pledged a "substantive agenda for Russia and the United States to be developed over the coming months and years."
"We ... are ready to move beyond Cold War mentalities and chart a fresh start in relations between our two countries," the statement reads.
In a separate news conference before the meeting, Obama said both countries have an interest in reducing nuclear stockpiles, reducing the threat of terrorism, and stabilizing the world economy. And, he said, nuclear arms talks are an ideal first front to begin moving the two countries toward common grounds.
"The presence of these deadly weapons, their proliferation, the possibility of them finding their way into the hands of terrorists, continues to be the gravest threat to humanity," Obama said.
In the joint statement, Obama and Medvedev agreed to strengthen their obligations under Article VI of the treaty on nonproliferation of nuclear weapons and to replace the strategic arms reduction treaty. Talks on the new treaty are to begin immediately, and the two leaders called for a report on results by July.
"We committed our two countries to achieving a nuclear free world," the statement reads.
Still, the two acknowledged that differences remain over missile defense assets in Europe.
The United States wants to base missile defense interceptors in Poland and associated radar in the Czech Republic. U.S. officials want to extend the zone of coverage in Europe for the potential long-range missile threat from Iran or others in the region.
Russian officials, however, have downplayed the threat from Iran and have been outspoken opponents of the plan. Both Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met with former Russian president Vladimir Putin and Medvedev in the past two years in Moscow for talks on the plan.
In the statement, though, the two leaders agreed to forge ahead on the missile defense discussions, and Medvedev later said he looks forward to meeting with Obama in Moscow in July.
"We discussed new possibilities for mutual international cooperation in the field of missile defense," the statement reads. "The relationship between offensive and defensive arms will be discussed by the two governments."
The statement also put Obama and Medvedev on the same side of the fight against al-Qaida and other insurgent groups operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and it expressed joint concern over a possible upcoming North Korean ballistic missile launch. The statement said the launch "would be damaging to peace and stability in the region."
Chairman Lauds Group for Work With Families of Fallen Warriors
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - Those in uniform must always remember their fallen comrades and their families, and those families deserve help in enduring their heartache, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here last night. "All of us know that nobody goes through life alone -- nobody," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told those gathered for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors Honor Guard Gala. "[And] nobody should have to go through grief alone. It's really that that TAPS does so well."
Bonnie Carroll started TAPS after her husband, Army Brig. Gen. Tom Carroll, an Alaska National Guardsman, was killed in a plane crash in 1992. Seven others died in the same crash. TAPS, a nonprofit organization, provides ongoing peer-based support to anyone who is grieving the death of a loved one who served in the armed forces. It brings together survivors for comfort, healing, and hope through grief seminars for adults and its Good Grief Camps for children.
It's easy to call TAPS the "gold standard," Mullen said.
"I use it as a gold standard in my travels, in my discussions when I speak with people about organizations [that] reach out and help those who serve and help the families who serve and have sacrificed so much," he said. "All of you who are members, or who work for ... and support TAPS, please don't ever underestimate the impact of what you do.
"It's almost beyond what we can describe," he said.
Army Maj. Gen. Mark Graham found words after accepting the TAPS Honor Guard Leadership Award.
"Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is truly for survivors," the commander of Division West and Fort Carson, Colo., said. "TAPS touches every survivor. "[It's] there for everyone, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They never take time off."
Graham's son, Army 2nd Lt. Kevin Graham, was killed in Iraq in 2004 after warning his fellow soldiers of a roadside bomb. Another son, Jeffrey Graham, an ROTC cadet, took his own life while studying to become an Army physician.
Graham's experience with a loved one's suicide allowed him to help two young men deal with their father's suicide. Marine Maj. John Ruocco, 40, returned from Iraq in 2004. The Marine Cobra pilot took his own life on Feb. 7, 2005. His sons, Joey and Billy, met Graham at a TAPS national convention.
"He took me aside and he explained how my dad was fighting a battle in his mind, and as well, on the ground," Joey Ruocco said. "I have a very deep understanding of suicide, since my mom's a counselor herself. He made me understand even deeper. I'd like to thank him for that, and I'd like to thank him for helping other people understand."
These shared stories, as well as those shared through a TAPS video, provided attendees, many of whom are survivors, with common ground.
"I think it's so important that we find ways to bond together in public and to understand the depth of the grief of these families and what they're going through," said Tom Brokaw, former NBC Nightly News anchor. "I want to pay a special, personal tribute to you who are here tonight -- for reasons that they would rather not be -- for their courage, for their bravery, and for serving as model citizens for the rest of us.
"We gather here as members of the American family, here and abroad, at war and at piece," Brokaw continued in the event's keynote address. "Those of us on the civilian side must make greater efforts every day to say, 'We're here. What can we do?'"
Jack May helped Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway present the TAPS Honor Guard Congressional Award to Virginia U.S. Sen. Jim Webb. May was 2 when his father, Marine Staff Sgt. Donald May, died in Iraq in 2003 when his tank fell off a bridge over the Euphrates River.
Information provided to TAPS by bereavement experts indicates that for each active-duty military loss of life, 10 people, on average, are significantly affected. From operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, that works out to about 49,350 affected survivors, including about 2,220 spouses and 3,454 children, estimates based on research by Scripps-Howard News Service in 2005.
TAPS has provided its services, free of charge, to more than 25,000 surviving family members, casualty assistance officers, chaplains and other who support bereaved families.
American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - Those in uniform must always remember their fallen comrades and their families, and those families deserve help in enduring their heartache, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here last night. "All of us know that nobody goes through life alone -- nobody," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told those gathered for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors Honor Guard Gala. "[And] nobody should have to go through grief alone. It's really that that TAPS does so well."
Bonnie Carroll started TAPS after her husband, Army Brig. Gen. Tom Carroll, an Alaska National Guardsman, was killed in a plane crash in 1992. Seven others died in the same crash. TAPS, a nonprofit organization, provides ongoing peer-based support to anyone who is grieving the death of a loved one who served in the armed forces. It brings together survivors for comfort, healing, and hope through grief seminars for adults and its Good Grief Camps for children.
It's easy to call TAPS the "gold standard," Mullen said.
"I use it as a gold standard in my travels, in my discussions when I speak with people about organizations [that] reach out and help those who serve and help the families who serve and have sacrificed so much," he said. "All of you who are members, or who work for ... and support TAPS, please don't ever underestimate the impact of what you do.
"It's almost beyond what we can describe," he said.
Army Maj. Gen. Mark Graham found words after accepting the TAPS Honor Guard Leadership Award.
"Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is truly for survivors," the commander of Division West and Fort Carson, Colo., said. "TAPS touches every survivor. "[It's] there for everyone, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They never take time off."
Graham's son, Army 2nd Lt. Kevin Graham, was killed in Iraq in 2004 after warning his fellow soldiers of a roadside bomb. Another son, Jeffrey Graham, an ROTC cadet, took his own life while studying to become an Army physician.
Graham's experience with a loved one's suicide allowed him to help two young men deal with their father's suicide. Marine Maj. John Ruocco, 40, returned from Iraq in 2004. The Marine Cobra pilot took his own life on Feb. 7, 2005. His sons, Joey and Billy, met Graham at a TAPS national convention.
"He took me aside and he explained how my dad was fighting a battle in his mind, and as well, on the ground," Joey Ruocco said. "I have a very deep understanding of suicide, since my mom's a counselor herself. He made me understand even deeper. I'd like to thank him for that, and I'd like to thank him for helping other people understand."
These shared stories, as well as those shared through a TAPS video, provided attendees, many of whom are survivors, with common ground.
"I think it's so important that we find ways to bond together in public and to understand the depth of the grief of these families and what they're going through," said Tom Brokaw, former NBC Nightly News anchor. "I want to pay a special, personal tribute to you who are here tonight -- for reasons that they would rather not be -- for their courage, for their bravery, and for serving as model citizens for the rest of us.
"We gather here as members of the American family, here and abroad, at war and at piece," Brokaw continued in the event's keynote address. "Those of us on the civilian side must make greater efforts every day to say, 'We're here. What can we do?'"
Jack May helped Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway present the TAPS Honor Guard Congressional Award to Virginia U.S. Sen. Jim Webb. May was 2 when his father, Marine Staff Sgt. Donald May, died in Iraq in 2003 when his tank fell off a bridge over the Euphrates River.
Information provided to TAPS by bereavement experts indicates that for each active-duty military loss of life, 10 people, on average, are significantly affected. From operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, that works out to about 49,350 affected survivors, including about 2,220 spouses and 3,454 children, estimates based on research by Scripps-Howard News Service in 2005.
TAPS has provided its services, free of charge, to more than 25,000 surviving family members, casualty assistance officers, chaplains and other who support bereaved families.
Shriners Support North Dakota Guardsmen During Flood Mission
By Army Spc. Chris EricksonSpecial to American Forces Press Service
April 1, 2009 - Shriners here temporarily have shifted their focus from helping children to helping National Guard members. Members of the international organization that supports a health care system of 22 hospitals providing specialty pediatric care, research and teaching programs are providing refreshments and warm, dry shelter for citizen-soldiers and -airmen activated to help in fighting a massive flood.
The North Dakota National Guard has concentrated its efforts on ensuring the dike system in the Fargo area holds. To ensure leaks are promptly plugged, quick-reaction forces have been set up at 11 staging areas in the community. The El Zagal Shrine and Masonic Temple in northeastern Fargo is one of those places.
George Vettel, a temple member, said the city asked the organization to keep the building open so the National Guard could use it.
"We're here now to make sure that they have whatever they need, whether it's food, coffee or pop, or anything else," Vettel said. The shrine members also are making sure the building is maintained during inclement weather.
Although the Red River in Fargo crested earlier this week, the quick-reaction forces remain vigilant.
"If we get sustained winds of 30 miles per hour, that could erode some of the dikes," said Army Staff Sgt. Charles Todd of the 1-188th Air Defense Artillery, a member of the force based at El Zagal. "Even if the water level goes down, the pressure is still there on temporary dikes."
Between missions, life for the soldiers and airmen is a waiting game, and many of them have found time to help out at the shrine.
"They mopped the floor, put plastic down on the carpet, shoveled snow, cleaned chairs and swept mud off the street and sidewalks," Emily Garten said.
Bill Hovell, chief of staff at the El Zagal Shrine, said the organization has been working closely with the servicemembers since they set up at the shrine, and he is grateful for the work the North Dakota National Guard is doing.
"You look at the officers and higher enlisted, and they're very professional," Hovell said. "Then I saw a young man in uniform who looked barely old enough to shave. I asked him what brought him here. He looked me right in the eye and said, 'I enlisted to serve,'" Hovell said with a smile.
Barten said the community has been an important part of helping out the servicemembers based at El Zagel.
"We've gotten a lot of donations from various places in town - restaurants, other Shriners and area residents," she said. "We've fed close to 80 today for lunch. We're planning for that many for meals, because this is a command and control site."
Army 1st Lt. Loren Soma of the 957th Multi-Role Bridge Company in Bismarck said he and others have helped to build dikes throughout Fargo, including Lindenwood Park and Oak Grove Lutheran School, and have placed barriers on the eastern edge of the city.
Soma agreed that the response from area residents had been outstanding. "It's nice to have the support of the community," he said. "We've been working hard all week, and it's nice to have a break. We're actually getting babied here."
Blizzard conditions have not affected the morale of the soldiers and airmen at El Zagal, and during some down time, a group of soldiers decided to build a snowman, which Hovell thought brought some levity to an otherwise serious situation.
The waiting game has not taken away from the Guard members' professional attitude. "We are still on full guard," Todd said.
Hovell expressed his gratitude for the National Guard. "As Shriners, we couldn't have better guests," he said. "We're honored."
(Army Spc. Chris Erickson serves with the North Dakota National Guard.)
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