On May 29, 2009, Conversations with Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion on Industrial Security Protection with former Army Captain Jeffrey W. Bennett.
Program Date: May 29, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Industrial Security Protection
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/30/Industrial-Security-Protection
About the Guest
Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is a former Army Officer with experience in intelligence, security and logistics. He is also an accomplished author with periodical, novel and non-fiction book credits. His book, ISP Certification-The Industrial Security Professional Exam Manual has helped security professionals better understand their profession as well as earn their certification.
Jeffrey W. Bennett is ISP certified with certificate number 117. He writes books on national security to offer peers, professionals and students resources to improve their skills and ability to safeguard classified material. His primary goal is to train security professionals and decrease security violations . Jeffrey W. Bennett is an active member of NCMS (Society of Industrial Security Professional) and currently serves as the vice-chair of one of the largest chapters. Jeffrey W. Bennett is also a member of ASIS International and serves as the nomination chair for the local chapter. Jeffrey W. Bennett is the author of ISP Certification: The Industrial Security Professional Exam Manual.
According to the book description of ISP Certification: The Industrial Security Professional Exam Manual, “What can be more important than protecting our Nation's secrets? This study system offers easy to understand career advice and delivers timely information to help students, industrial security professionals and Government security specialists better understand the National Industrial Security Program. This book is perfect for Homeland Security and Criminal Justice students, security professionals and should be in every library. Industrial security professionals serving in the government, private or DoD Contractor industry benefit by improving their study of executive orders and the National Industrial Security Operating Manual. Situations and questions throughout the book are designed to help improve security programs designed to protect classified material. In fact, many Facility Security Officers and industrial security professionals face similar situations identified in the book as they implement and direct policies to safeguard our nation’s secrets.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Law Enforcement Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/30/Industrial-Security-Protection
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Wounded Soldier
There is a wounded soldier in Fort Sam Houston Fisher House. He was severely wounded over in the Sand Box. He lost both of his legs and was burned extensively over his entire body. His birthday is next week and his family put out a gentle request to send a card. He has been in the hospital for over 2 years now:
Sgt. David Thornhill
Fort Sam Houston
Fisher House
3623 George C. Beach Road
Fort Sam Houston, Texas. 78234
Sgt. David Thornhill
Fort Sam Houston
Fisher House
3623 George C. Beach Road
Fort Sam Houston, Texas. 78234
Special Forces Soldier
On May 22, 2009, Conversations with Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr. United States Army (ret.).
Program Date: May 22, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Special Forces Soldiers
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/23/Special-Forces-Soldiers-
About the Guest
Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata Jr., USA (ret.) was an Army Special Operations NCO and retired as a Master Sergeant in 2003 after 28 years of service with the U.S. Army Special Forces. He now lives in Gilroy (California). Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr. is the author of Desperate Lands: The War on Terror through the Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier.
According to the book description of Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through the Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier it “is the unprecedented story of U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers and the missions they have carried out while fighting the war on terror in the Horn of Africa and in Afghanistan. The book is unique and timely, in that it tells the compelling story of our nations struggle and of its soldiers fighting a new and different kind of war never fought before a Global War on Terror. This true story comes at a time when our nation has divided feelings and opinions about this war a division that exists among both government leaders and the American people. These pages offer a different perspective that of lower enlisted soldiers reflecting their personal experience in combat zones in Africa and Afghanistan as they witnessed and experienced the fog of war. The author Special Forces Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr. shares his extraordinary journey through ancient and desperate lands at the front lines of this ongoing war. Here are true stories of sacrifice, bravery, excitement, horror, anger, tedium, fear, camaraderie, and more a firsthand look behind the headlines at the reality of the exceptional and difficult challenges U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers face as they defend America against the terrorist threat.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Law Enforcement Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/23/Special-Forces-Soldiers-
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: May 22, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Special Forces Soldiers
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/23/Special-Forces-Soldiers-
About the Guest
Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata Jr., USA (ret.) was an Army Special Operations NCO and retired as a Master Sergeant in 2003 after 28 years of service with the U.S. Army Special Forces. He now lives in Gilroy (California). Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr. is the author of Desperate Lands: The War on Terror through the Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier.
According to the book description of Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through the Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier it “is the unprecedented story of U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers and the missions they have carried out while fighting the war on terror in the Horn of Africa and in Afghanistan. The book is unique and timely, in that it tells the compelling story of our nations struggle and of its soldiers fighting a new and different kind of war never fought before a Global War on Terror. This true story comes at a time when our nation has divided feelings and opinions about this war a division that exists among both government leaders and the American people. These pages offer a different perspective that of lower enlisted soldiers reflecting their personal experience in combat zones in Africa and Afghanistan as they witnessed and experienced the fog of war. The author Special Forces Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr. shares his extraordinary journey through ancient and desperate lands at the front lines of this ongoing war. Here are true stories of sacrifice, bravery, excitement, horror, anger, tedium, fear, camaraderie, and more a firsthand look behind the headlines at the reality of the exceptional and difficult challenges U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers face as they defend America against the terrorist threat.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Law Enforcement Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/05/23/Special-Forces-Soldiers-
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Friday, May 15, 2009
Inspiring Alliance - Military Support Network
Inspiring Alliance is a nonprofit service organization offering emergency care and long-term support to military service members, veterans, and their families. Our audience includes the active or retired service member or a veteran, who is in need of transitional assistance for medical, financial, education or employment support. The programs we refer clients to are supported through a variety of qualified nonprofit organizations and federal agencies whose web links are located on our Military Support Links landing page. In addition, we offer assistance through our own self-funded programs at Inspiring Alliance.
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.inspiringalliance.org
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.inspiringalliance.org
The 3 Cs of Ethical Leadership
Unfortunately, all supervisors or managers are not leaders. A good cop is genuinely a leader to the community they serve. But everyone in a position of authority is not really a leader. A well rounded leader possesses the 3 Cs: character, charisma, and compassion. These are the core foundation of ethical leadership.
http://www.police-writers.com/articles/ethical_leadership.html
http://www.police-writers.com/articles/ethical_leadership.html
Leadership Philosophy: Expand Your Mind
Leadership comes in many different shapes and forms. As leadership comes in different shapes and forms, so does leadership philosophies. There are people from all walks of life who have their own philosophy on leadership. Who's to say which is right and which is wrong? But if you expand your mind and allow your leadership to grow, you will benefit any organization.
READ ON
http://www.pokerleadership.com/leadership_philosophy.html
READ ON
http://www.pokerleadership.com/leadership_philosophy.html
Bomb Threat Stand Off Distance Chart
The Bomb Threat Stand Off Distances Chart was developed by the National Counterterrorism Center and provides evacuation distances for various types of bomb threats.
Download the Chart
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/bomb_threat_stand_off_distances.html
Download the Chart
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/bomb_threat_stand_off_distances.html
GI Film Festival Puts Military in Focus
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The works screened at the GI Film Festival, the only American cinema expo dedicated to honoring U.S. troops, represent a wide-lens view of the military that goes beyond the narrative angles commonly pursued by Hollywood. Far from sugar-coating the realities of human conflict, the assortment of independent, international, mainstream and short films aim to represent a more rounded depiction of war and the people affected by it, according to the festival co-founder.
"This range of films is important, not only for the American G.I.s, but for the public to see our warriors' story from a variety of perspectives -- from the active-duty servicemember inside the arena of war, to the military spouse at home waiting for their loved one to return," said Maj. Laura Law-Millett, U.S. Army Reserve, who started the festival with her husband three years ago.
This year's lineup includes 16 feature-length documentaries, two major studio feature films and 30 short films covering the Civil War, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Festival organizers expect more than 1,000 guests over the next three days, including active and retired military, their families, as well as military and history buffs and film aficionados.
Audience members here last night watched Valkyrie, a 2008 release that tells the tale of Claus von Stauffenberg, a colonel in the German army during WWII who becomes disillusioned with his role as the military face of Adolph Hitler's inhumanity. The officer's dilemma is established early and Stauffenberg spends little time computing the moral calculus, quickly deciding to tie his fate to an anti-establishment movement bent on overthrowing the Third Reich and installing a new German government.
Valkyrie Producer Gilbert Adler said that while the movie's creators were shooting the historically-based film on location in Berlin, he steeped himself in the culture of WWII-era Germany.
"In so doing, I realized how great it is to live in this country," he said of the United States. "And when I realized who was going to be in this audience tonight, I felt compelled to come and say how honored I am to be invited to this, and how much I appreciate the military's involvement in protecting the Constitution."
Before the film reaches its crescendo, with Stauffenberg botching an assassination attempt on the fuhrer's head that leads to the swift dissolution of the coup, the audience sees the young colonel suffer wounds in a pitched battle in Northern Africa. The physical changes the character undergoes as a result of his injuries resonated with last night's audience, which included wounded warriors from two local military hospitals.
Stauffenberg loses his right hand above the wrist, two digits on his left and an eye after allied war planes strafed his Army unit with bullets. A sub-plot of Valkryie focuses on the colonel adapting to his new life: Stauffenberg fumbles with his uniform coat while dressing, he struggles to recognize the face in the mirror staring back at him with one eye, and he can no longer salute.
Marine Sgt. Jack Eubanks, a member of last night's audience who was decked out in dress blues, shared his own tale of rehabilitation. The cane he clutches to help balance him is a visible cue that his path to recovery is ongoing.
During his first deployment to Anbar province, Iraq, in October 2005, Eubanks was thrown from his vehicle when it rolled over an improvised explosive device. Two months later, again his vehicle drove over a roadside bomb and he was ejected a second time. Two years later while deployed to Habaniyah, Iraq, Eubanks was struck with a mortar.
Eubanks now works as an enlisted advisor and medical liaison at the Defense Center of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury and receives treatment at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
The sergeant suffered both physical and mental wounds, injured his spine and experienced post-traumatic stress. But like many junior enlisted troops returning home a changed person, Eubanks exudes resilience and humility in describing his own great courage.
"It took its toll," he said of his battle wounds. "But I don't consider myself seriously injured – I'm in one piece. I've got a spinal injury; it hurts. But I'm not missing legs like some of these guys. I consider myself extremely fortunate. I'm able to do most daily things myself. I just feel bad for those who can't."
Army Lt. Col. Michael Jasmin, a soldier recovering from surgery for injuries to his rotator cuff and bicep tendon that he sustained while on his second deployment to Iraq, expressed his admiration for those troops more severely injured than he.
Jasmin is part of the Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Belvoir, Va., but receives treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here, the Army's main, U.S. military hospital.
"I go to Walter Reed, I talk to these guys, and they have higher spirits than people I know outside," he said.
Jasmin told of when he shared an elevator in the hospital with an injured solder who noticed the Iraq war patch on Jasmin's uniform and asked, "You heading out anytime soon, sir?"
"Well, actually, I'm here to get fixed,'" Jasmin recalled telling the soldier, who replied: "You let me know when you do, I wanna go with you." Jasmin added, "He wanted to get right back in the fight."
Jasmin said he appreciates that the GI Film Festival showcases the duty, honor and sacrifice displayed by American servicemembers – aspects of service that are sometimes glossed over or ignored by blockbuster movies that use war as a backdrop.
"I think a lot of guys, me in particular, feel abandoned by mainstream Hollywood," he said. "So I really appreciate what they're doing here. They're showing the sacrifice and the service of America's sons and daughters."
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The works screened at the GI Film Festival, the only American cinema expo dedicated to honoring U.S. troops, represent a wide-lens view of the military that goes beyond the narrative angles commonly pursued by Hollywood. Far from sugar-coating the realities of human conflict, the assortment of independent, international, mainstream and short films aim to represent a more rounded depiction of war and the people affected by it, according to the festival co-founder.
"This range of films is important, not only for the American G.I.s, but for the public to see our warriors' story from a variety of perspectives -- from the active-duty servicemember inside the arena of war, to the military spouse at home waiting for their loved one to return," said Maj. Laura Law-Millett, U.S. Army Reserve, who started the festival with her husband three years ago.
This year's lineup includes 16 feature-length documentaries, two major studio feature films and 30 short films covering the Civil War, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Festival organizers expect more than 1,000 guests over the next three days, including active and retired military, their families, as well as military and history buffs and film aficionados.
Audience members here last night watched Valkyrie, a 2008 release that tells the tale of Claus von Stauffenberg, a colonel in the German army during WWII who becomes disillusioned with his role as the military face of Adolph Hitler's inhumanity. The officer's dilemma is established early and Stauffenberg spends little time computing the moral calculus, quickly deciding to tie his fate to an anti-establishment movement bent on overthrowing the Third Reich and installing a new German government.
Valkyrie Producer Gilbert Adler said that while the movie's creators were shooting the historically-based film on location in Berlin, he steeped himself in the culture of WWII-era Germany.
"In so doing, I realized how great it is to live in this country," he said of the United States. "And when I realized who was going to be in this audience tonight, I felt compelled to come and say how honored I am to be invited to this, and how much I appreciate the military's involvement in protecting the Constitution."
Before the film reaches its crescendo, with Stauffenberg botching an assassination attempt on the fuhrer's head that leads to the swift dissolution of the coup, the audience sees the young colonel suffer wounds in a pitched battle in Northern Africa. The physical changes the character undergoes as a result of his injuries resonated with last night's audience, which included wounded warriors from two local military hospitals.
Stauffenberg loses his right hand above the wrist, two digits on his left and an eye after allied war planes strafed his Army unit with bullets. A sub-plot of Valkryie focuses on the colonel adapting to his new life: Stauffenberg fumbles with his uniform coat while dressing, he struggles to recognize the face in the mirror staring back at him with one eye, and he can no longer salute.
Marine Sgt. Jack Eubanks, a member of last night's audience who was decked out in dress blues, shared his own tale of rehabilitation. The cane he clutches to help balance him is a visible cue that his path to recovery is ongoing.
During his first deployment to Anbar province, Iraq, in October 2005, Eubanks was thrown from his vehicle when it rolled over an improvised explosive device. Two months later, again his vehicle drove over a roadside bomb and he was ejected a second time. Two years later while deployed to Habaniyah, Iraq, Eubanks was struck with a mortar.
Eubanks now works as an enlisted advisor and medical liaison at the Defense Center of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury and receives treatment at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
The sergeant suffered both physical and mental wounds, injured his spine and experienced post-traumatic stress. But like many junior enlisted troops returning home a changed person, Eubanks exudes resilience and humility in describing his own great courage.
"It took its toll," he said of his battle wounds. "But I don't consider myself seriously injured – I'm in one piece. I've got a spinal injury; it hurts. But I'm not missing legs like some of these guys. I consider myself extremely fortunate. I'm able to do most daily things myself. I just feel bad for those who can't."
Army Lt. Col. Michael Jasmin, a soldier recovering from surgery for injuries to his rotator cuff and bicep tendon that he sustained while on his second deployment to Iraq, expressed his admiration for those troops more severely injured than he.
Jasmin is part of the Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Belvoir, Va., but receives treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here, the Army's main, U.S. military hospital.
"I go to Walter Reed, I talk to these guys, and they have higher spirits than people I know outside," he said.
Jasmin told of when he shared an elevator in the hospital with an injured solder who noticed the Iraq war patch on Jasmin's uniform and asked, "You heading out anytime soon, sir?"
"Well, actually, I'm here to get fixed,'" Jasmin recalled telling the soldier, who replied: "You let me know when you do, I wanna go with you." Jasmin added, "He wanted to get right back in the fight."
Jasmin said he appreciates that the GI Film Festival showcases the duty, honor and sacrifice displayed by American servicemembers – aspects of service that are sometimes glossed over or ignored by blockbuster movies that use war as a backdrop.
"I think a lot of guys, me in particular, feel abandoned by mainstream Hollywood," he said. "So I really appreciate what they're doing here. They're showing the sacrifice and the service of America's sons and daughters."
MILITARY CONTRACTS May 15, 2009
NAVY
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $259,904,116 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5444) for MK15 Phalanx Close-In-Weapon System (CIWS) Block 1B upgrades and conversions, system overhauls, and associated hardware. Phalanx CIWS is a fast reaction terminal defense against low and high flying, high-speed maneuvering anti-ship missile threats that have penetrated all other ships' defenses. The CIWS is an integral element of the fleet defense in-depth concept and the Ship Self-Defense Program. Phalanx CIWS is currently installed on approximately 187 USN ships and is in use in 20 foreign navies. The Phalanx Block 1B CIWS weapon systems are also being installed on low-boy trailers with self contained diesel electric power and cooling water. This configuration of the Phalanx CIWS is the MK 15 MOD 29 land-based Phalanx Weapon System and has been deployed to Iraq. Work will be performed in Louisville, Ky., (30 percent), Andover, Mass., (19 percent), Tucson, Ariz., (16 percent), Syracuse, N.Y., (7 percent), Long Beach, Calif., (6 percent), Radford, Va., (6 percent), Burlington, Vt., (6 percent), Palm Bay, Fla., (2 percent), Pittsburg, Pa., (2 percent), Bloomington, Minn., (2 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah, (2 percent), Norcross, Ga., (1 percent), and New Albany, Ind., (1 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2012. Contract funds in the amount of $8,756,580 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
ITT Corp., Fort Wayne, Ind., is being awarded a $22,928,426 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for single channel ground and airborne radio system waveform software support for the Network Enterprise Domain under the Joint Program Executive Office, Joint Tactical Radio System. Work will be performed in Fort Wayne, Ind., and is expected to be completed by 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract wascompetitively procured and offers were received via the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N00039-09-D-0020).
Harris Corp., Melbourne, Fla., is being awarded a $12,357,161 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-05-C-0044) for the obsolescence redesign of the Lot 10/11 tactical aircraft moving map capability common map card, and will include test asset deliveries of the digital map computer (9) and the digital video map computer (2). Work will be performed in Palm Bay, Fla., and is expected to be completed in Apr. 2011. 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 Land & Armaments, Ground Systems Division, York, Pa., is being awarded a $7,063,712 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity delivery order #0010 under previously awarded contract (M67854-07-D-5025) for the purchase of eight United States Special Operations Command Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Category I vehicles including technical insertion engineering change proposals. Work will be performed in York, Pa., and is expected to be completed by the Nov. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
McDonnell Douglas Corporation, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $84,611,624 firm fixed price, sole source contract for parts. Other location of performance is in Texas. Using service is Navy. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with 1 response. The date of performance completion is May 30, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Philadelphia (DSCR-ZC), Philadelphia, Pa., (N00383-06-D-004H-THA2).
Graybar Electric Co., Inc., Saint Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $74,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity, maintenance, repair and operation contract for supplies. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was solicited on FedBizOps with seven responses. This contract is exercising the fourth one-year option period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 18, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-04-D-BP07).
Science Applications International Corp., Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $60,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity, maintenance, repair and operation contract for supplies and related services. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was solicited on FedBizOps with seven responses. This contract is exercising the fourth one-year option period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 18, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP08).
McRae Industries, Inc., Mt. Gilead, N.C.*, is being awarded a maximum $21,014,297 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite quantity and indefinite delivery, total set aside contract for Army combat boots. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. The original proposal was Web solicited with nine responses. This contract is exercising the second option year period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 16, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-07-D-1521).
Veyance Technologies, Inc., Fairlawn, Ohio is being awarded a maximum $11,614,374 firm fixed price contract for track pads. Other location of performance is in Ohio. Using service is Army. There were originally two proposals solicited with two responses. The date of performance completion is May 30, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Warren (DSCC-ZG), Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-09-D-0024).
RKA/dba Leemon Oil Co., Romulus, Mich.*, is being awarded a maximum $5,394,155 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel. Other locations of performance are throughout Michigan. Using services are Army and federal civilian agencies. There were 48 responses to the original proposal solicited. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jun. 30, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-0217).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is modifying a firm fixed Price and Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract with McDonnell Douglas Corp., of Long Beach, Calif., for$144,527,500. This contract modification is for the C-17 Globemaster III sustainment partnership contract to incorporate the CY09 Global Reach Improvement Program Non-Block, Block 14-16 and Block 17 Follow-On retrofit projects for the Air Force and United Kingdom aircraft. At this time, $62,077,406 has been obligated. 516 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004, P00298).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to Computer Sciences Corp., of Falls Church, Va., for $48.3 million. This contract action will provide supplies and services necessary to sustain the current deliberate and crisis action planning and execution segments operational capabilities. At this time, no money has been obligated. 754 ELSG of Maxwell Air Force Base-Gunter Annex, Ala., is the contracting activity (FA8771-07-D-0001).
The Air Force is modifying a cost plus fixed fee contract with Lockheed Martin Corp., of King of Prussia, Pa., for $18,300,000. This contract action will perform major design, trades and segment definition through completion of a preliminary design review for the Conventional Strike Missile Payload Deliver Vehicle. At this time, $9,150,000 has been obligated. SMC/XRC, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (FA8814-08-C-0003, P00006).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to Hawaiian Rock Products, of Mangilao, Guam for a maximum of $7,606,395. This contract will provide furnishing all labor, materials, tools, equipment, transpiration, quality control and supervision necessary to complete paving, marking and rubber removal, and basewide paving. At this time, $5,931,000 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/KCK, Bedford, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8726-09-0006).
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., of Herndon, Va., for an estimated $6,763,156. This contract action will provide technical area tTask to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with analysis for secure, robust ENGLink that will operate on the Corps of Engineers enterprise information system and satellite communications connected to mobile command vehicles and USACE's new ACE-IT environment. At this time, $25,000 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (FASP0700-98-D-4002).
The Air Force is awarding a requirements contract to Cornejo and Sons, Inc., of Wichita, Kan., for an estimated $6,744,306. This contractor shall furnish all plant, labor, material, supplies, testing, supervision, transportation and incidentals necessary to accomplish pavement removal. At this time, no money has been obligated. 22 CONS/LGCA, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., is the contracting activity (FA4621-09-D-0003).
Shaw Environmental, Inc., Norfolk, Va. is being awarded a minimum $6,750,000 firm fixed price contract for environmental remediation and assessment services. Other location of performance is in South Carolina. Using services are federal civilian agencies. There were 13 responses to the original proposal solicited. The date of performance completion is Jun. 30, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-5917).
ARMY
Lockheed Martin Corp., Grand Prairie, Texas was award on May 13, 2009 a $31,930,257 cost-plus-fixed-fee-service contract for PAC-3 Guidance Processor Unit Redesign. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-07-G-0001).
The Boeing Co. Saint Louis, Mo. was awarded on May 14, 2009 a $ 18,699,999 cost reimbursement contract for the procurement of all long lead items, to include all non-recurring test item, tooling and facilitization needs to meet the projected Low Rate Initial Production requirements for the Future Combat Systems Spin Out Early- Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Work is to be performed in Bloomington, M.N., (24 percent), Wayne, N.J., (3 percent), Wilmington, Ma., (19 percent), Burlington, Ma., (17 percent), Albuquerque, N.M., (9 percent), Huntington Ceach, Calif., (24 percent), St Louis, Mo., (1 percent), Huntsville, Ala., (1 percent), El Paso, Texas, (2 percent) with an estimated completion date of Jan. 15, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. TACOM Warren, AMSCC-TAC-AB, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0452).
Argon ST, Fairfax, Va., was awarded on May 14, 2009 a $ 6,435,021 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Robust Surface Navigation (RSN) program seeks to develop technology for geospatial location and navigation using "signals of opportunity" (SoOP). These SoOP's are primarily envisioned to be man-made radio emitters not originally intended for location and navigation (such as commercial communications satellites, commercial radio and television broadcast towers, or mobile telephone towers), but may be extended to active beacons purposefully deployed in a tactical military situation. Phase 1 of RSN presented analyses that showed the expected positioning performance using SoOps and beacons in various environments, including open-sky line of sight, urban canyons of varying density, inside buildings of varying complexity, and under dense foliage. Work is to be performed in Fairfax, Va., (84.33 percent), Plymouth, Minn., (9.95 percent), Austin, Texas, (3.09 percent), and Cambridge, Ma., (2.63 percent) with an estimated completion date of Feb. 12, 2010. Bids were solicited using a Broad Agency Announcement with twelve (12) bids received; two performers selected for Phase 1; 1 performer selected for Phase 2. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HR0011-09-C-0079).
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $259,904,116 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5444) for MK15 Phalanx Close-In-Weapon System (CIWS) Block 1B upgrades and conversions, system overhauls, and associated hardware. Phalanx CIWS is a fast reaction terminal defense against low and high flying, high-speed maneuvering anti-ship missile threats that have penetrated all other ships' defenses. The CIWS is an integral element of the fleet defense in-depth concept and the Ship Self-Defense Program. Phalanx CIWS is currently installed on approximately 187 USN ships and is in use in 20 foreign navies. The Phalanx Block 1B CIWS weapon systems are also being installed on low-boy trailers with self contained diesel electric power and cooling water. This configuration of the Phalanx CIWS is the MK 15 MOD 29 land-based Phalanx Weapon System and has been deployed to Iraq. Work will be performed in Louisville, Ky., (30 percent), Andover, Mass., (19 percent), Tucson, Ariz., (16 percent), Syracuse, N.Y., (7 percent), Long Beach, Calif., (6 percent), Radford, Va., (6 percent), Burlington, Vt., (6 percent), Palm Bay, Fla., (2 percent), Pittsburg, Pa., (2 percent), Bloomington, Minn., (2 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah, (2 percent), Norcross, Ga., (1 percent), and New Albany, Ind., (1 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2012. Contract funds in the amount of $8,756,580 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
ITT Corp., Fort Wayne, Ind., is being awarded a $22,928,426 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for single channel ground and airborne radio system waveform software support for the Network Enterprise Domain under the Joint Program Executive Office, Joint Tactical Radio System. Work will be performed in Fort Wayne, Ind., and is expected to be completed by 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract wascompetitively procured and offers were received via the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N00039-09-D-0020).
Harris Corp., Melbourne, Fla., is being awarded a $12,357,161 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-05-C-0044) for the obsolescence redesign of the Lot 10/11 tactical aircraft moving map capability common map card, and will include test asset deliveries of the digital map computer (9) and the digital video map computer (2). Work will be performed in Palm Bay, Fla., and is expected to be completed in Apr. 2011. 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 Land & Armaments, Ground Systems Division, York, Pa., is being awarded a $7,063,712 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity delivery order #0010 under previously awarded contract (M67854-07-D-5025) for the purchase of eight United States Special Operations Command Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Category I vehicles including technical insertion engineering change proposals. Work will be performed in York, Pa., and is expected to be completed by the Nov. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
McDonnell Douglas Corporation, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $84,611,624 firm fixed price, sole source contract for parts. Other location of performance is in Texas. Using service is Navy. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with 1 response. The date of performance completion is May 30, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Philadelphia (DSCR-ZC), Philadelphia, Pa., (N00383-06-D-004H-THA2).
Graybar Electric Co., Inc., Saint Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $74,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity, maintenance, repair and operation contract for supplies. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was solicited on FedBizOps with seven responses. This contract is exercising the fourth one-year option period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 18, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-04-D-BP07).
Science Applications International Corp., Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $60,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity, maintenance, repair and operation contract for supplies and related services. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was solicited on FedBizOps with seven responses. This contract is exercising the fourth one-year option period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 18, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP08).
McRae Industries, Inc., Mt. Gilead, N.C.*, is being awarded a maximum $21,014,297 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite quantity and indefinite delivery, total set aside contract for Army combat boots. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. The original proposal was Web solicited with nine responses. This contract is exercising the second option year period. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 16, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-07-D-1521).
Veyance Technologies, Inc., Fairlawn, Ohio is being awarded a maximum $11,614,374 firm fixed price contract for track pads. Other location of performance is in Ohio. Using service is Army. There were originally two proposals solicited with two responses. The date of performance completion is May 30, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Warren (DSCC-ZG), Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-09-D-0024).
RKA/dba Leemon Oil Co., Romulus, Mich.*, is being awarded a maximum $5,394,155 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel. Other locations of performance are throughout Michigan. Using services are Army and federal civilian agencies. There were 48 responses to the original proposal solicited. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jun. 30, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-0217).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is modifying a firm fixed Price and Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract with McDonnell Douglas Corp., of Long Beach, Calif., for$144,527,500. This contract modification is for the C-17 Globemaster III sustainment partnership contract to incorporate the CY09 Global Reach Improvement Program Non-Block, Block 14-16 and Block 17 Follow-On retrofit projects for the Air Force and United Kingdom aircraft. At this time, $62,077,406 has been obligated. 516 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004, P00298).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to Computer Sciences Corp., of Falls Church, Va., for $48.3 million. This contract action will provide supplies and services necessary to sustain the current deliberate and crisis action planning and execution segments operational capabilities. At this time, no money has been obligated. 754 ELSG of Maxwell Air Force Base-Gunter Annex, Ala., is the contracting activity (FA8771-07-D-0001).
The Air Force is modifying a cost plus fixed fee contract with Lockheed Martin Corp., of King of Prussia, Pa., for $18,300,000. This contract action will perform major design, trades and segment definition through completion of a preliminary design review for the Conventional Strike Missile Payload Deliver Vehicle. At this time, $9,150,000 has been obligated. SMC/XRC, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (FA8814-08-C-0003, P00006).
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to Hawaiian Rock Products, of Mangilao, Guam for a maximum of $7,606,395. This contract will provide furnishing all labor, materials, tools, equipment, transpiration, quality control and supervision necessary to complete paving, marking and rubber removal, and basewide paving. At this time, $5,931,000 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/KCK, Bedford, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8726-09-0006).
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., of Herndon, Va., for an estimated $6,763,156. This contract action will provide technical area tTask to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with analysis for secure, robust ENGLink that will operate on the Corps of Engineers enterprise information system and satellite communications connected to mobile command vehicles and USACE's new ACE-IT environment. At this time, $25,000 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (FASP0700-98-D-4002).
The Air Force is awarding a requirements contract to Cornejo and Sons, Inc., of Wichita, Kan., for an estimated $6,744,306. This contractor shall furnish all plant, labor, material, supplies, testing, supervision, transportation and incidentals necessary to accomplish pavement removal. At this time, no money has been obligated. 22 CONS/LGCA, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., is the contracting activity (FA4621-09-D-0003).
Shaw Environmental, Inc., Norfolk, Va. is being awarded a minimum $6,750,000 firm fixed price contract for environmental remediation and assessment services. Other location of performance is in South Carolina. Using services are federal civilian agencies. There were 13 responses to the original proposal solicited. The date of performance completion is Jun. 30, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-5917).
ARMY
Lockheed Martin Corp., Grand Prairie, Texas was award on May 13, 2009 a $31,930,257 cost-plus-fixed-fee-service contract for PAC-3 Guidance Processor Unit Redesign. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-07-G-0001).
The Boeing Co. Saint Louis, Mo. was awarded on May 14, 2009 a $ 18,699,999 cost reimbursement contract for the procurement of all long lead items, to include all non-recurring test item, tooling and facilitization needs to meet the projected Low Rate Initial Production requirements for the Future Combat Systems Spin Out Early- Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Work is to be performed in Bloomington, M.N., (24 percent), Wayne, N.J., (3 percent), Wilmington, Ma., (19 percent), Burlington, Ma., (17 percent), Albuquerque, N.M., (9 percent), Huntington Ceach, Calif., (24 percent), St Louis, Mo., (1 percent), Huntsville, Ala., (1 percent), El Paso, Texas, (2 percent) with an estimated completion date of Jan. 15, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid received. TACOM Warren, AMSCC-TAC-AB, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0452).
Argon ST, Fairfax, Va., was awarded on May 14, 2009 a $ 6,435,021 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Robust Surface Navigation (RSN) program seeks to develop technology for geospatial location and navigation using "signals of opportunity" (SoOP). These SoOP's are primarily envisioned to be man-made radio emitters not originally intended for location and navigation (such as commercial communications satellites, commercial radio and television broadcast towers, or mobile telephone towers), but may be extended to active beacons purposefully deployed in a tactical military situation. Phase 1 of RSN presented analyses that showed the expected positioning performance using SoOps and beacons in various environments, including open-sky line of sight, urban canyons of varying density, inside buildings of varying complexity, and under dense foliage. Work is to be performed in Fairfax, Va., (84.33 percent), Plymouth, Minn., (9.95 percent), Austin, Texas, (3.09 percent), and Cambridge, Ma., (2.63 percent) with an estimated completion date of Feb. 12, 2010. Bids were solicited using a Broad Agency Announcement with twelve (12) bids received; two performers selected for Phase 1; 1 performer selected for Phase 2. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HR0011-09-C-0079).
Bidens Thank Sailors Aboard USS Ronald Reagan
By Navy Seaman Alexander Tidd
Special to American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The vice president and his wife visited USS Ronald Reagan here yesterday as part of a familiarization tour of naval facilities in southern California. While aboard the USS Ronald Reagan, Vice President Joe Biden announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million for servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss during the country's struggling housing market.
During their tour, Biden commented on the Ronald Reagan Strike Group's successful 2008 deployment, which included humanitarian assistance in the Philippines and combat operations in Afghanistan.
"You are agile, capable in a variety of missions, and you're brave enough to succeed every time you are deployed," Biden told the 2,000 sailors.
"A grateful nation owes you," he said.
Much to the delight of the crew, the vice president and his wife, Jill Biden, sat down for lunch with Ronald Reagan sailors after his speech.
"It's exciting, a once-in-a-lifetime experience," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate Airman Elizabeth Irby. "I was speechless when he sat down with us. He was intriguing and inspirational."
"Having the vice president visit is something I wouldn't get to do in any other job," added Machinist's Mate Fireman Alecia Guerrera. "It's nice to hear his support for the military and Reagan in particular."
The vice president posed for hundreds of photos with sailors, thanking them individually for their service.
"I hope you all realize how much we support you," he said.
Jill Biden, who along with First Lady Michelle Obama advocates for military families, met later with area ombudsmen to discuss family readiness issues.
"Your loved ones will not be alone when you deploy," she told the Ronald Reagan crew. "Your country appreciates your courage and strength."
USS Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 7 and the ninth of 10 Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. The ship is named for the 40th president. Its motto, "peace through strength," was a recurring theme during the Reagan presidency.
(Navy Seaman Alexander Tidd writes for Navy News Service).
Special to American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The vice president and his wife visited USS Ronald Reagan here yesterday as part of a familiarization tour of naval facilities in southern California. While aboard the USS Ronald Reagan, Vice President Joe Biden announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million for servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss during the country's struggling housing market.
During their tour, Biden commented on the Ronald Reagan Strike Group's successful 2008 deployment, which included humanitarian assistance in the Philippines and combat operations in Afghanistan.
"You are agile, capable in a variety of missions, and you're brave enough to succeed every time you are deployed," Biden told the 2,000 sailors.
"A grateful nation owes you," he said.
Much to the delight of the crew, the vice president and his wife, Jill Biden, sat down for lunch with Ronald Reagan sailors after his speech.
"It's exciting, a once-in-a-lifetime experience," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate Airman Elizabeth Irby. "I was speechless when he sat down with us. He was intriguing and inspirational."
"Having the vice president visit is something I wouldn't get to do in any other job," added Machinist's Mate Fireman Alecia Guerrera. "It's nice to hear his support for the military and Reagan in particular."
The vice president posed for hundreds of photos with sailors, thanking them individually for their service.
"I hope you all realize how much we support you," he said.
Jill Biden, who along with First Lady Michelle Obama advocates for military families, met later with area ombudsmen to discuss family readiness issues.
"Your loved ones will not be alone when you deploy," she told the Ronald Reagan crew. "Your country appreciates your courage and strength."
USS Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 7 and the ninth of 10 Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. The ship is named for the 40th president. Its motto, "peace through strength," was a recurring theme during the Reagan presidency.
(Navy Seaman Alexander Tidd writes for Navy News Service).
California Group Packs Church, Packages, to Recognize Military Appreciation Month
By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - For the last five years, the California-based troop-support group, Their Angels, have met every first Saturday, monthly, to pack civilian care packages and write letters of support to send to deployed troops. On May 2, the volunteers brought together 100 people in honor of Military Appreciation Month. "We decided to extend an invitation to our active-duty military personnel, their families and veterans to come and be our honored guests," said Marva Lyons, president of Their Angels. "We also offered a special prayer on behalf of those that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We just wanted to salute them all for their service."
Nearly 100 people gathered at the Hilltop Church of Christ in Richmond, Calif., for the celebration. Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia spoke to the group about the importance of being involved with troop-support groups.
Students from Tara Hills Elementary in San Pablo recited a poem, "The Pride of Our Country." Military families gave updates on their deployed family members and veterans had the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell when and where they served.
"I really enjoyed the event," said Denise Marshall-Thomas, whose son participated. "It was a good learning experience for the students – to meet the troops and the veterans, to hear about their experiences. I was so happy the event included young people. My son, Isaiah, loved it."
Army Sgt. First Class Luis Green, who served a tour in Iraq, along with others, was welcomed with hand shakes, tears, hugs and thanks as the guests waited in line to express personal gratitude for their service.
"As a special surprise, we prepared special notes of thanks that were distributed to the veterans," Lyons said.
Following the reception, about 80 attendees gathered to pack 500 care packages, each with a special note tucked inside. The packages included razors, Band-Aids, wet wipes, pencils, candy, Kool-aid, cookies, crackers and granola bars, among other things.
"We work tirelessly each month to continue this tradition," Lyons said. "While the work we do on behalf of our troops is appreciated, we continue to look for ways to fund our monthly packing."
For the groups' efforts in arranging the Military Appreciation Month program, the Diablo Corvette Club presented them with a $750 check for their continued support of deployed troops.
Their Angels has assembled and shipped more than 14,000 care packages to deployed troops since 2004, according to the group's Web site.
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - For the last five years, the California-based troop-support group, Their Angels, have met every first Saturday, monthly, to pack civilian care packages and write letters of support to send to deployed troops. On May 2, the volunteers brought together 100 people in honor of Military Appreciation Month. "We decided to extend an invitation to our active-duty military personnel, their families and veterans to come and be our honored guests," said Marva Lyons, president of Their Angels. "We also offered a special prayer on behalf of those that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We just wanted to salute them all for their service."
Nearly 100 people gathered at the Hilltop Church of Christ in Richmond, Calif., for the celebration. Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia spoke to the group about the importance of being involved with troop-support groups.
Students from Tara Hills Elementary in San Pablo recited a poem, "The Pride of Our Country." Military families gave updates on their deployed family members and veterans had the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell when and where they served.
"I really enjoyed the event," said Denise Marshall-Thomas, whose son participated. "It was a good learning experience for the students – to meet the troops and the veterans, to hear about their experiences. I was so happy the event included young people. My son, Isaiah, loved it."
Army Sgt. First Class Luis Green, who served a tour in Iraq, along with others, was welcomed with hand shakes, tears, hugs and thanks as the guests waited in line to express personal gratitude for their service.
"As a special surprise, we prepared special notes of thanks that were distributed to the veterans," Lyons said.
Following the reception, about 80 attendees gathered to pack 500 care packages, each with a special note tucked inside. The packages included razors, Band-Aids, wet wipes, pencils, candy, Kool-aid, cookies, crackers and granola bars, among other things.
"We work tirelessly each month to continue this tradition," Lyons said. "While the work we do on behalf of our troops is appreciated, we continue to look for ways to fund our monthly packing."
For the groups' efforts in arranging the Military Appreciation Month program, the Diablo Corvette Club presented them with a $750 check for their continued support of deployed troops.
Their Angels has assembled and shipped more than 14,000 care packages to deployed troops since 2004, according to the group's Web site.
Guard 'T-bird' Pilot Wheels Enthusiasm at Air Show
By Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. SmithSpecial to American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - As acrobatic aircraft buzzed overhead as part of the run-up to the annual air show here this weekend, Air Force Lt. Col. Derek Routt paid more notice to the parked, baby-blue and white business jets on the ground -- aircraft used by the nation's elected and military leaders. The first Air National Guard officer to serve with the Air Force Thunderbirds was enjoying his time outside the nation's capital, his eighth event since joining the team.
A trim, operations officer in his late 30s, Routt wore the dark-blue flight suit of the Thunderbirds with nary a thread out of place. He likes to make sure there is "no distinguishing between a Guard, reserve or active-duty Thunderbird," he said.
"This is a true-to-form, total force team," he said. "When I tell people that I am a Guardsman it brings a lot of questions, and that allows me to talk about the Air Guard. But it really doesn't matter what service or what capacity, to serve is the No. 1 goal."
Even as a Guard member, Routt flew the F-15 Eagle in Nevada with what officials call the "most diverse wing in the Air Force" – the 57th at Nellis Air Force Base. The Thunderbirds are based just down the street.
"I had some people approach me about applying for the position, and I applied and went through the process," he said. He made the grade.
It is Routt's first time working as an operations officer, and he is doing it as the second-in-command of the nation's premiere F-16 Fighting Falcon squadron.
"I run the operations business, which means I put aircraft in the air, put pilots into aircraft and make sure that their training is done. During the show, and all the way through our season, my No. 1 job is safety," he said.
Routt will travel with the team – 11 officers and 120 enlisted airmen – on a schedule of air shows across the nation and as far as Hawaii until November. Then he will prepare for his second, and final, 2010 season.
Routt flies Thunderbird No. 7 to and from shows. The plane is used as a spare and in support missions. "You can think of the operations officer as more of a producer of the show, who controls the air space, people, communications and gear," he said. "While the guys are flying, I'm controlling the airfield and ensuring the team is doing it safe and properly."
Routt is overseeing operations of a squadron constantly under the public eye, where its ground-air movements are highly coordinated, planned and synchronized. He supervises the safety of pilots who fly near supersonic speeds within feet of each other.
But he was looking around the flight line yesterday morning, more a spectator than a participant. He said his status and schedule has not dulled his childhood excitement for air shows and airplanes.
"Wouldn't it be great to take that up," he said, smiling and pointing toward a vintage, World War II fighter aircraft. "Now that would be awesome."
(Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith serves with the National Guard Bureau).
Marine Corps Ready for Review's Scrutiny, Commandant Says
By Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The Marine Corps is lean and built for a fight, including the scrutiny of the upcoming Quadrennial Defense Review, its commandant said during a military strategy forum here today. "We think that ... as a Marine Corps, we're going to be scrutinized during the QDR but in the end, we think we'll be OK," Marine Gen. James T. Conway said at the Center for Strategic and International Studies Military Strategy Forum. The QDR is a study the Defense Department conducts every four years to analyze strategic objectives and potential military threats.
"The Marine Corps pulls down about 6 percent of the department's budget," Conway said. "For that 6 percent, you get about 15, 16 percent of the maneuver battalions; you get 15 percent of the attack aircraft [and] you get 19 percent of the attack helicopters. The average Marine costs the country about $20,000 less than the next closest service man in other services."
The Corps also defines the kind of service Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is seeking: a balanced force oriented toward the hybrid, but able to counter surprises that sometimes develop around the globe, Conway said.
"One hundred percent of our Marine Corps procurement can be used in both the hybrid kind of environment or in major combat," he said. "It's a record we're proud of and we think that's certainly going to continue on downrange."
The QDR most likely will bring up three issues involving the Marine Corps, the commandant said. The first is the lay down of forces as it relates to the Corps' pending move to Guam.
The second is the shortfall in the Corps' attack aircraft procurement. It hasn't purchased such a craft in 11 years, but with good reason, he said.
"We chose not to buy the F-18 E and F when the Navy did, so that we could await the arrival of a fifth-generation fighter called the Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35B," Conway said. "Interestingly, we are the first of all the services to get initial operation capacity out of that aircraft."
That capacity won't be a reality until 2012. Until then, the Marine Corps has taken steps to make sure its fleet of F-18 A through D fighter jets are viable resources, including extending the jets to 10,000 hours of flight time, Conway said.
The third issue focuses on the need for amphibious capability and how much is necessary.
"That is a major player as far as Marines are concerned, of course ... because it talks about that niche capability that we provide," Conway said. "I would rephrase the question a little bit and [ask], 'How much does this maritime nation and world superpower need for purposes of security cooperation and theater engagement? If you ask that question of the combatant commanders, they will tell you almost uniformly that's their No. 1 requirement."
Conway said he believes the chief of Naval Operations would say the amphibious ships are the best for that particular job.
They provide a great range of capabilities including training, air, medical and dental.
"We think that the value on a day-in and day-out basis is really the engagement that this nation has to be able to accomplish over time and [be able to do it] from the sea," Conway said.
The military is seeing more nations request the aid the U.S. military has brought them, but they don't necessarily want them creating a footprint ashore, he said.
Vice President's Wife Meets with San Diego Military Spouses
By Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class David L. Smart
Special to American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The wife of the vice president spoke with military family members and support group representatives at the Island Club on Naval Air Station North Island here yesterday. President Barack Obama, his wife, Michelle, and Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, have made support for military members and their families a priority since taking office. Joe and Jill Biden met with sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan in San Diego yesterday after the vice president announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million for servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss during the national housing crunch. Afterward, Jill Biden met with local military spouses and community volunteer groups to discuss issues facing military spouses.
"A few months ago I did something similar," Biden said. "I went to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and I had the chance to hear from spouses and talk about some of the things that they were facing as military spouses.
"We talked about child care," she said. "We talked about problems they were having at the local schools, and I also heard from some of these ladies that the community came together and supported these families.
"I'm also pleased that so many volunteer organizations are here today and look forward to hearing from you because your work is really critically important."
The Bidens had lunch with sailors aboard USS Ronald Reagan, carrying their message of support and appreciation to the crew. The vice president then visited other Navy commands, giving Jill Biden the opportunity to meet with spouses and volunteers.
"I'm here to listen. That's my job today," she told the group. "I'm a teacher and you know I'm a mom, so one of my strengths is that I'm a good listener."
This is the first time the Bidens have been to San Diego since the inauguration.
"I'm very excited about it. I can't wait to meet her," said Twanya Brass, an Operation Homefront volunteer and military spouse. "This lets me know they really care about what's going on with the military and the military spouses."
Christi Carr, chairman of volunteers at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society said, "I think it means a lot. Her background as a college professor and taking the time out to help with the military, I think is wonderful. We should be honored that she is here."
(Petty Officer 3rd Class David L. Smart serves with Navy Public Affairs Support Element West).
Special to American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The wife of the vice president spoke with military family members and support group representatives at the Island Club on Naval Air Station North Island here yesterday. President Barack Obama, his wife, Michelle, and Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, have made support for military members and their families a priority since taking office. Joe and Jill Biden met with sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan in San Diego yesterday after the vice president announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million for servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss during the national housing crunch. Afterward, Jill Biden met with local military spouses and community volunteer groups to discuss issues facing military spouses.
"A few months ago I did something similar," Biden said. "I went to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and I had the chance to hear from spouses and talk about some of the things that they were facing as military spouses.
"We talked about child care," she said. "We talked about problems they were having at the local schools, and I also heard from some of these ladies that the community came together and supported these families.
"I'm also pleased that so many volunteer organizations are here today and look forward to hearing from you because your work is really critically important."
The Bidens had lunch with sailors aboard USS Ronald Reagan, carrying their message of support and appreciation to the crew. The vice president then visited other Navy commands, giving Jill Biden the opportunity to meet with spouses and volunteers.
"I'm here to listen. That's my job today," she told the group. "I'm a teacher and you know I'm a mom, so one of my strengths is that I'm a good listener."
This is the first time the Bidens have been to San Diego since the inauguration.
"I'm very excited about it. I can't wait to meet her," said Twanya Brass, an Operation Homefront volunteer and military spouse. "This lets me know they really care about what's going on with the military and the military spouses."
Christi Carr, chairman of volunteers at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society said, "I think it means a lot. Her background as a college professor and taking the time out to help with the military, I think is wonderful. We should be honored that she is here."
(Petty Officer 3rd Class David L. Smart serves with Navy Public Affairs Support Element West).
DoD, OPM Announce Defense Business Board NSPS Review
Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn III and Director of the Office of Personnel Management John Berry asked the Defense Business Board yesterday to establish a task group to conduct a review of the National Security Personnel System.
The task group should deliver recommendations aimed at helping the Department determine (1) if the underlying design principles and methodology for implementation are reflected in the program objectives; (2) whether the program objectives are being met; and (3) whether NSPS is operating in a fair, transparent, and effective manner," wrote Lynn in his instructions to the Defense Business Board.
The task group will seek public input over a series of opportunities to be announced at a later date, and present its findings and draft recommendations to the Defense Business Board during a public meeting later this summer. The board will provide its final report to the secretary of defense and to the director, Office of Personnel Management, shortly thereafter.
The task group will be chaired by Rudy deLeon, the senior vice president of National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. The other members of the group will be Michael Bayer, chairman of the Defense Business Board, and Robert Tobias, a professor at American University and director for the Institute for the Study of Public Policy Implementation.
The Defense Business Board, an independent advisory body that operates under the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972, was established to provide the secretary of defense independent advice and recommendations on effective management of the Department of Defense.
On March 16, 2009, the Department of Defense and the Office of Personnel Management had announced that they will undertake a review of the National Security Personnel System, including policies, regulations, and practices.
The task group should deliver recommendations aimed at helping the Department determine (1) if the underlying design principles and methodology for implementation are reflected in the program objectives; (2) whether the program objectives are being met; and (3) whether NSPS is operating in a fair, transparent, and effective manner," wrote Lynn in his instructions to the Defense Business Board.
The task group will seek public input over a series of opportunities to be announced at a later date, and present its findings and draft recommendations to the Defense Business Board during a public meeting later this summer. The board will provide its final report to the secretary of defense and to the director, Office of Personnel Management, shortly thereafter.
The task group will be chaired by Rudy deLeon, the senior vice president of National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. The other members of the group will be Michael Bayer, chairman of the Defense Business Board, and Robert Tobias, a professor at American University and director for the Institute for the Study of Public Policy Implementation.
The Defense Business Board, an independent advisory body that operates under the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972, was established to provide the secretary of defense independent advice and recommendations on effective management of the Department of Defense.
On March 16, 2009, the Department of Defense and the Office of Personnel Management had announced that they will undertake a review of the National Security Personnel System, including policies, regulations, and practices.
Chairman Issues Statement in Support of Armed Forces Day
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a statement released in support of Armed Forces Day that today's military is "as united in common purpose, spirit and understanding" as he has ever seen. Here is the entirety of Mullen's statement:
On Saturday, May 16th, we pause to commemorate Armed Forces Day and pay tribute to all active duty Service members, National Guardsmen and Reservists, who, through the thickest of wars and greatest of crises, have raised their hands high to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.
The theme of this year's Armed Forces Day, "United in Strength" – seems especially fitting to me, personally – for in my nearly 45 years of wearing the uniform, I have rarely seen our Nation and our military as united in common purpose, spirit, and understanding as I do, right now.
For that commitment and that unity, I am grateful to our civilian leadership, as well as our hometowns and local communities. The virtue of serving a cause greater than self is a public virtue, one which is still just as revolutionary as it was during our Nation's founding.
In now our eighth year of war, our Armed Forces stand as one of the most combat-hardened forces in our history. Yet their uplifting enthusiasm and resilience never cease to inspire. I know – we all know – that this spirit has everything to do with your support. It is a sea of goodwill which lifts the spirits of every military Service member and family, in times difficult and good. It is that same support and encouragement we cannot do without.
To the more than two million Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and their families, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and I extend our heartfelt thanks for your service. And to the Nation we serve – we humbly thank you for your unstinting devotion – and for the opportunity to represent the spirit you share so generously, all across the globe.
Sincerely,
M.G. MULLEN
Admiral, U.S. Navy
May 15, 2009 - Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a statement released in support of Armed Forces Day that today's military is "as united in common purpose, spirit and understanding" as he has ever seen. Here is the entirety of Mullen's statement:
On Saturday, May 16th, we pause to commemorate Armed Forces Day and pay tribute to all active duty Service members, National Guardsmen and Reservists, who, through the thickest of wars and greatest of crises, have raised their hands high to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.
The theme of this year's Armed Forces Day, "United in Strength" – seems especially fitting to me, personally – for in my nearly 45 years of wearing the uniform, I have rarely seen our Nation and our military as united in common purpose, spirit, and understanding as I do, right now.
For that commitment and that unity, I am grateful to our civilian leadership, as well as our hometowns and local communities. The virtue of serving a cause greater than self is a public virtue, one which is still just as revolutionary as it was during our Nation's founding.
In now our eighth year of war, our Armed Forces stand as one of the most combat-hardened forces in our history. Yet their uplifting enthusiasm and resilience never cease to inspire. I know – we all know – that this spirit has everything to do with your support. It is a sea of goodwill which lifts the spirits of every military Service member and family, in times difficult and good. It is that same support and encouragement we cannot do without.
To the more than two million Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and their families, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and I extend our heartfelt thanks for your service. And to the Nation we serve – we humbly thank you for your unstinting devotion – and for the opportunity to represent the spirit you share so generously, all across the globe.
Sincerely,
M.G. MULLEN
Admiral, U.S. Navy
Air Force Names Lackland Alternative for Cyber Numbered Headquarters
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - The Air Force announced today that Lackland AFB, Texas, is the preferred alternative for the permanent location of 24th Air Force, a new numbered Air Force headquarters focused on the cyber mission. A final basing decision will not be made until the environmental process required under the National Environmental Policy Act is completed, military officials said.
Air Force officials announced in October the creation of a cyber-NAF under Air Force Space Command. The Air Force announced the six candidate bases for the NAF headquarters on Jan. 21, then began site surveys that teams completed on March 6. The six candidate bases were: Barksdale AFB, La.; Lackland AFB, Texas; Langley AFB, Va.; Offutt AFB, Neb.; Peterson AFB, Colo.; and Scott AFB, Ill.
"Site survey teams used previously approved criteria to gather information, assess capabilities, and refine initial data to thoroughly evaluate all candidate locations in accordance with our basing process," said Kathleen Ferguson, deputy secretary of the Air Force for installations.
"These basing selections were made using a measured and deliberate process to ensure that the final decision is the best possible outcome for national defense and is in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act," Ferguson said. "This information was then evaluated during a headquarters Air Force-level review to select the preferred alternative."
In selecting a preferred alternative for the cyber mission, Air Force officials considered cyber NAF mission synergy, including proximity to other cyber operational missions and access to scientific and technical expertise, as well as communication and bandwidth capabilities, officials said.
Other criteria included facilities and infrastructure, support capacity, security and transportation and access considerations. Following the completion of the environmental impact analysis, Air Force officials intend to make a final base selection this summer.
May 15, 2009 - The Air Force announced today that Lackland AFB, Texas, is the preferred alternative for the permanent location of 24th Air Force, a new numbered Air Force headquarters focused on the cyber mission. A final basing decision will not be made until the environmental process required under the National Environmental Policy Act is completed, military officials said.
Air Force officials announced in October the creation of a cyber-NAF under Air Force Space Command. The Air Force announced the six candidate bases for the NAF headquarters on Jan. 21, then began site surveys that teams completed on March 6. The six candidate bases were: Barksdale AFB, La.; Lackland AFB, Texas; Langley AFB, Va.; Offutt AFB, Neb.; Peterson AFB, Colo.; and Scott AFB, Ill.
"Site survey teams used previously approved criteria to gather information, assess capabilities, and refine initial data to thoroughly evaluate all candidate locations in accordance with our basing process," said Kathleen Ferguson, deputy secretary of the Air Force for installations.
"These basing selections were made using a measured and deliberate process to ensure that the final decision is the best possible outcome for national defense and is in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act," Ferguson said. "This information was then evaluated during a headquarters Air Force-level review to select the preferred alternative."
In selecting a preferred alternative for the cyber mission, Air Force officials considered cyber NAF mission synergy, including proximity to other cyber operational missions and access to scientific and technical expertise, as well as communication and bandwidth capabilities, officials said.
Other criteria included facilities and infrastructure, support capacity, security and transportation and access considerations. Following the completion of the environmental impact analysis, Air Force officials intend to make a final base selection this summer.
Business Leaders to Review DoD Personnel System
American Forces Press Service
, May 15, 2009 - The Defense Department has turned to a group of senior executive business leaders to review its newest system of hiring and compensation. Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III, along with Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry, has asked the Defense Business Board to form a task group to review the National Security Personnel System.
The board is made up of about 20 private sector executives with a range of business management experience. It is tasked with providing the Defense Department independent advice and recommendations.
"The task group should deliver recommendations aimed at helping the department determine if the underlying design principles and methodology for implementation are reflected in the program objectives, whether the program objectives are being met, and whether NSPS is operating in a fair, transparent, and effective manner," Lynn wrote in his instructions to the board.
The task group will seek public input, but venues have not been announced. The group is slated to present its findings and draft recommendations to the board during a public meeting later this summer, officials announced.
The board is to provide its final report to the Defense Department shortly thereafter.
Defense Department and OPM officials on March 16 announced a review of the personnel system, including policies, regulations, and practices.
The department has put a hold on any further conversions of organizations into NSPS until at least October, pending the outcome of the review.
NSPS implementation began in 2006, changing the way DoD civilians are hired, compensated, promoted, and rewarded. The system covers about 205,000 DoD employees.
, May 15, 2009 - The Defense Department has turned to a group of senior executive business leaders to review its newest system of hiring and compensation. Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III, along with Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry, has asked the Defense Business Board to form a task group to review the National Security Personnel System.
The board is made up of about 20 private sector executives with a range of business management experience. It is tasked with providing the Defense Department independent advice and recommendations.
"The task group should deliver recommendations aimed at helping the department determine if the underlying design principles and methodology for implementation are reflected in the program objectives, whether the program objectives are being met, and whether NSPS is operating in a fair, transparent, and effective manner," Lynn wrote in his instructions to the board.
The task group will seek public input, but venues have not been announced. The group is slated to present its findings and draft recommendations to the board during a public meeting later this summer, officials announced.
The board is to provide its final report to the Defense Department shortly thereafter.
Defense Department and OPM officials on March 16 announced a review of the personnel system, including policies, regulations, and practices.
The department has put a hold on any further conversions of organizations into NSPS until at least October, pending the outcome of the review.
NSPS implementation began in 2006, changing the way DoD civilians are hired, compensated, promoted, and rewarded. The system covers about 205,000 DoD employees.
President Issues Armed Forces Day Proclamation
American Forces Press Service
May 15, 2009 - President Barack Obama signed and issued a proclamation yesterday designating tomorrow as Armed Forces Day. Here is the presidential proclamation:
On Armed Forces Day, 1961, President Kennedy connected civic engagement and our Nation's security. He stated, "The strength of our armed forces rests not alone upon their active and reserve members, our industrial productivity, and our human resources, but also upon the understanding and support of an informed American people." Based on this perspective, I call upon all Americans to learn more about, and express gratitude for, the heroic efforts of our men and women in uniform.
Today, the United States military serves across the world to keep us safe. They are working here at home to protect America from threats foreign and domestic; they are risking their lives in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan; and they are also serving bravely in many other parts of the world to ensure our security and provide humanitarian assistance. Members of the Armed Forces are forging a better future for our Nation and the world.
As they carry out their missions, military families endure the sacrifice of their absence. Worrying about their safety, moving to new duty stations, and managing a home without a loved one, these families shoulder great burdens as they help sustain our men and women in uniform. I thank military families for their vital contributions.
The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coastguardsmen who have answered the call to service deserve recognition and gratitude. They have endured the most difficult of conditions to protect America and her highest ideals. Today, I ask all Americans to know their sacrifice and join me in humble thanks.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the precedent of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.
I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Homeland Security on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances each year, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for soliciting the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens.
I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.
I also invite national and local veterans, civic and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.
Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day and urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day. I also encourage Americans to volunteer at organizations that provide support to our troops.
Proclamation 7562 of May 16, 2002, is hereby superseded. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
May 15, 2009 - President Barack Obama signed and issued a proclamation yesterday designating tomorrow as Armed Forces Day. Here is the presidential proclamation:
On Armed Forces Day, 1961, President Kennedy connected civic engagement and our Nation's security. He stated, "The strength of our armed forces rests not alone upon their active and reserve members, our industrial productivity, and our human resources, but also upon the understanding and support of an informed American people." Based on this perspective, I call upon all Americans to learn more about, and express gratitude for, the heroic efforts of our men and women in uniform.
Today, the United States military serves across the world to keep us safe. They are working here at home to protect America from threats foreign and domestic; they are risking their lives in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan; and they are also serving bravely in many other parts of the world to ensure our security and provide humanitarian assistance. Members of the Armed Forces are forging a better future for our Nation and the world.
As they carry out their missions, military families endure the sacrifice of their absence. Worrying about their safety, moving to new duty stations, and managing a home without a loved one, these families shoulder great burdens as they help sustain our men and women in uniform. I thank military families for their vital contributions.
The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coastguardsmen who have answered the call to service deserve recognition and gratitude. They have endured the most difficult of conditions to protect America and her highest ideals. Today, I ask all Americans to know their sacrifice and join me in humble thanks.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the precedent of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.
I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Homeland Security on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances each year, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for soliciting the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens.
I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.
I also invite national and local veterans, civic and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.
Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day and urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day. I also encourage Americans to volunteer at organizations that provide support to our troops.
Proclamation 7562 of May 16, 2002, is hereby superseded. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Beyond the Strait: PLA Missions other than Taiwan
While preventing independence likely remains the central aim of the PLA vis-a-vis Taiwan, Chinese foreign policy objectives worldwide are rapidly growing and diversifying. This volume analyzes the PLA’s involvement in disaster and humanitarian relief, United Nations peacekeeping operations (UNPKO), counterterrorism and border defense, security in outer space and cyberspace, and the level of activity in regional “joint” operational contingencies. On the whole, the volume provides a discerning analysis of these varied PLA developments and how they affect policy towards both Taiwan and the entire Asia-Pacific region. While the significance of China has long been understood, the nation’s rise to prominence on the world scene is becoming more acutely felt. An understanding of the PLA’s growing roles both within China and internationally is of critical importance to the United States.
READ ON
READ ON
The New Balance: Limited Armed Stabilization and the Future of U.S. Landpower
The author takes a critical look at the mission assignment and orientation of U.S. landpower. He calls for an unconventional revolution in U.S. land forces that optimizes them for intervention in complex and violent crises of governance and security in states crippled by internal disorder. In the end, he argues that the armed stabilization of states and regions in crises will be not just equivalent in importance to traditional warfighting in future land force planning but instead the primary land force mission for the foreseeable future.
READ ON
READ ON
A History of Socio-Cultural Intelligence and Research Under the Occupation of Japan
American forces entered a seemingly dangerous and very foreign world following the surrender of Japan. A nation-building mission unlike any other previously in U.S. history ensued. Insight into Japanese sentiment and ways of conducting business would be paramount to the success of General Douglas MacArthur in demilitarizing and democratizing Japan. Two complementary but rival organizations within MacArthur’s Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (SCAP) staff were created and charged with understanding Japanese thought patterns and culture to assist with successful reform. The Research and Analysis Branch (R&A), subordinate to the Civil Intelligence Section (CIS), was responsible for turning out quality anecdotal intelligence analysis. It produced weekly “Occupational Trends” reports critical to monitoring Japanese sentiment on issues of seminal importance to demilitarization, such as Japanese popular opinion concerning the maintenance of the Emperor. The other organization, the Public Opinion and Sociological Research Division (PO&SR) under the Civil Information and Education Section (CI&E), employed social scientists who worked closely with Japanese nationals on democratization. For perhaps the first time in history, sociological research supplemented traditional intelligence analysis in informing occupational leaders. PO&SR prepared scientific socio-cultural reports that served various sections across MacArthur’s government. While rivalries existed between the R&A and PO&SR over methods and utility of services, the framework established under the occupation serves as a model of how to process and produce foreign socio-cultural intelligence and research during nation building. Analytic lessons learned include encouraging close cooperation between intelligence professionals and more specialized sociologists, incorporating diverse collection sources, working closely with host nationals, and formally documenting social science project findings.
READ ON
READ ON
New NATO Members: Security Consumers or Producers?
This monograph examines the burden-sharing of new members in NATO. Qualitative and quantitative methods are used to test the hypothesis that new NATO members are burden-sharing at a greater rate than older NATO members. An analysis of the burden-sharing behavior of NATO’s 1999 wave of new members reveals that new NATO members have demonstrated the willingness to contribute to NATO missions, but are often constrained by their limited capabilities. However, new member contributions to NATO have improved and, in comparison to older NATO members, the new members are doing quite well. The United States should focus on improving the capabilities of the new members while encouraging its older allies to increase their own contributions to the alliance where feasible.
READ ON
READ ON
Navy Christens Newest Arleigh Burke Class Ship Gravely
The Navy will christen the newest Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer, Gravely, on May 16, during a 10 a.m. CDT ceremony at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Pascagoula, Miss.
The new destroyer honors the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Gravely was born in Richmond, Va., June 4, 1922. After attending Virginia Union University, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in September 1942. In 1943 he participated in a Navy program (V-12) designed to select and train highly qualified men for commissioning as officers in the Navy. On Dec. 14, 1944, Gravely successfully completed midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned as an officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. He was released from active duty in April 1946, but remained in the Naval Reserve.
Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949. As part of the Navy's response to President Truman's executive order to desegregate the armed services, his initial assignment was as a Navy recruiter, recruiting African Americans in the Washington, D.C. area. Gravely went on to a Navy career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished accomplishments.
Gravely was a true pathfinder whose performance and leadership as an African American Naval officer demonstrated to America the value and strength of diversity. Gravely's accomplishments served as watershed events for today's Navy. He was the first African American to command a warship (USS Theodore E. Chandler); to command a major warship (USS Jouett); to achieve flag rank and eventually vice admiral; and to command a numbered fleet (Third).
Retired Adm.J. Paul Reason will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Alma Gravely will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her late husband. In accordance with Navy tradition, she will break a bottle of champagne across the ship's bow and christen the ship.
Designated DDG 107, the 57th Arleigh Burke class destroyer, Gravely will be able to conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. Gravely will be capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and contains a myriad of offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare in keeping with "A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower," the new maritime strategy that postures the sea services to apply maritime power to protect U.S. vital interests in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.
Cdr. Douglas Kunzman is the prospective commanding officer of the ship and will lead the crew of 276 officers and enlisted personnel. The 9,200-ton Gravely is being built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Miss. The ship is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet, and a navigational draft of 31 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.
The christening ceremony will be streamed from the following site: http://www.sb.northropgrumman.com/events/gravely/
Additional information on Arleigh Burke class destroyers is available online at http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=900&ct=4.
The new destroyer honors the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Gravely was born in Richmond, Va., June 4, 1922. After attending Virginia Union University, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in September 1942. In 1943 he participated in a Navy program (V-12) designed to select and train highly qualified men for commissioning as officers in the Navy. On Dec. 14, 1944, Gravely successfully completed midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned as an officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. He was released from active duty in April 1946, but remained in the Naval Reserve.
Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949. As part of the Navy's response to President Truman's executive order to desegregate the armed services, his initial assignment was as a Navy recruiter, recruiting African Americans in the Washington, D.C. area. Gravely went on to a Navy career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished accomplishments.
Gravely was a true pathfinder whose performance and leadership as an African American Naval officer demonstrated to America the value and strength of diversity. Gravely's accomplishments served as watershed events for today's Navy. He was the first African American to command a warship (USS Theodore E. Chandler); to command a major warship (USS Jouett); to achieve flag rank and eventually vice admiral; and to command a numbered fleet (Third).
Retired Adm.J. Paul Reason will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Alma Gravely will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her late husband. In accordance with Navy tradition, she will break a bottle of champagne across the ship's bow and christen the ship.
Designated DDG 107, the 57th Arleigh Burke class destroyer, Gravely will be able to conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. Gravely will be capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and contains a myriad of offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare in keeping with "A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower," the new maritime strategy that postures the sea services to apply maritime power to protect U.S. vital interests in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.
Cdr. Douglas Kunzman is the prospective commanding officer of the ship and will lead the crew of 276 officers and enlisted personnel. The 9,200-ton Gravely is being built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Miss. The ship is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet, and a navigational draft of 31 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.
The christening ceremony will be streamed from the following site: http://www.sb.northropgrumman.com/events/gravely/
Additional information on Arleigh Burke class destroyers is available online at http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=900&ct=4.
MILITARY CONTRACTS May 14, 2009
NAVY
CH2M Hill-Kleinfelder, Joint Venture, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $100,000,000 cost-plus-award-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity architect/engineering contract for comprehensive long-term environmental action Navy in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for comprehensive services pertaining to studies, investigations, evaluations, consultations, conceptual design, value engineering, risk assessments, pilot or treatability projects, operation monitoring and optimization of environmental treatment or control systems, related Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, and Base Realignment and Closure to meet statutory compliance for all applicable DoD, federal, state, local, and installation specific environment laws, regulations, and guidance. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations and other government facilities within NAVFAC Southwest AOR including, but not limited to Calif. (80 percent), Ariz. (5 percent), Nev. (5 percent), Colo. (4 percent), N.M. (2 percent), Utah (2 percent), and other federal and DOD installations nationwide (2 percent), and is expected to be completed by May 2014. Task Order 0001 is being awarded at $1,942,689.00 for Program Management Office over sight at the time of award. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by May 2010. Contract funds for Task Order 0001 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities and Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with four proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-09-D-2622).
QinetiQ, Inc., Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $44,893,398 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the development and manufacture of seven Zephyr High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial systems and one ground station. The HALE will offer solar-powered, persistent coverage capability with mission durations of up to 3 months continuous operation. Work will be performed in Farnborough Hampshire, United Kingdom, and is expected to be completed in May 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via a Broad Agency Announcement. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-09-C-0194).
ERAPSCO, Columbia City, Ind., is being awarded a $31,316,120 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 7,320 AN/SSQ-101A sonobuoys and 20 test, analyze and fix units in support of the Navy Antisubmarine Forces. Work will be performed in DeLeon Springs, Fla. (65 percent), and Columbia City, Ind. (35 percent), and is expected to be completed in May 2011 Contract funds in the amount of $229,070 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-09-C-0068).
AIR FORCE
Resubmission from yesterday, 13 May – Spelled out acronym (MSIAC) from yesterday
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Alion Science and Technology Corporation of Chicago, Illinois for an estimated $6,411,510. This contract action is for a Modeling and Simulation Information Analysis Center will provide research analysis, findings and recommendations to the newly established Army Enterprise Task Force to establish an enterprise approach to Army decision making management process. At this time, $434,782 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity. (FA8722-09-C-0001)
NEW
The Air Force is awarding a firm fixed price contract to Raytheon Missile Systems Company of Tucson, Ariz., for $53,919,693. This action will provide miniature air launched decoy Low Rate Production for 25 month production effort to include all 162 up rounds, 81 containers, warranty rotable spares and a 12-month Interim Contractor Support. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA8682-09-C-0059)
The Air Force is awarding a contract to Lockheed Martin Corporation of Gaithersburg, Md., for $43,036,000. This contract will provide the satellite broadcast management functions of the Global Broadcast Services will be transferred to the Defense Enterprise Computing Center with new hardware and software architecture by FY 2010. At this time, $5,931,000 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/KCK, Bedford, Mass., is the contracting activity. (FA8726-09-0006)
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to M/A-COM, Inc. of Lowell, Massachusetts for $14,801,848. This action will design, develop and demonstration of low-cost wireless network nodes which support adaptation by means of distributed network processing for the Wireless Adaptable Network Node. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, N.Y. is the contracting activity. (FA8750-07-C-0005, P00006)
ARMY
Ledoor Construction, Richardson, Texas. was awarded on May 12, 2009 a $ 20,328,178 firm-fixed-price construction contract for the construction of Fort Bliss Commissary. Work is to be performed in Fort Bliss, Texas, with an estimated completion date of May 9, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with five bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Little Rock, Ark., is the contracting activity (W9127S-09-C-6002).
Daimler Trucks North America LLC, Portland, Ore., was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $7,945,947 firm-fixed-price 9 year requirements contract for delivery order 0116 adds 37 each, M916A3 light equipment transporters to the contract. Work is to be performed in Portland, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2009. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with two bids received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-S022).
Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $ 7,815,629 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to greatly increase the effectiveness of personnel recovery missions within the Marines and potentially the other services. This will provide soldiers low cost, easy to use tags to quickly and efficiently indicate a state of distress initiating rescue. Work is to be performed in San Diego, Calif. (22.5 percent), Lowell, Mass. (69.3 percent), and Redwood City, Calif. (8.2 percent) with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity. (HR0011-09-C-0006)
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. (DRS SSI) Saint Louis, Mo., was awarded on May 08, 2009 a $ 22,972,589 STS cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the base award of 232,000 hours of system technical support for the M1200 Knight vehicle system for FY09/FY10, with an option for an additional 48,000 hours. Work is to be performed in St. Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S.A. TACOM LCMC- Warren, AMSCC-TAC-AHLC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0398)
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. (DRS SSI) Saint Louis, Mo., was awarded on May 08, 2009 an $11,987,030 firm-fixed-price contract for 38 each, M2100 armored Knight vehicles and 10 each of six individual items of authorized stockage list spare parts. An option is available for 42 each, M2100 Armored Knight Vehicles and 12 each of six individual items of authorized stockage list spare parts. Work is to be performed in St. Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 30, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S.A. TACOM LCMC- Warren, AMSCC-AQ-AHLC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0397).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missile and Fires Control (LMMFC) Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $11,851,101 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the acquisition of nineteen each High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) increased crew protection cabs for the Army and seven each for the Marine Corp as kits for installation on HIMARS M142 launchers and required spare items. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas (20 percent), Sealy, Texas (53 percent), Rock Center, W.V. (14 percent), and White Sands Missile Range, N.M. (13 percent) with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Army Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-06-C-0140).
CH2M Hill-Kleinfelder, Joint Venture, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $100,000,000 cost-plus-award-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity architect/engineering contract for comprehensive long-term environmental action Navy in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for comprehensive services pertaining to studies, investigations, evaluations, consultations, conceptual design, value engineering, risk assessments, pilot or treatability projects, operation monitoring and optimization of environmental treatment or control systems, related Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, and Base Realignment and Closure to meet statutory compliance for all applicable DoD, federal, state, local, and installation specific environment laws, regulations, and guidance. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations and other government facilities within NAVFAC Southwest AOR including, but not limited to Calif. (80 percent), Ariz. (5 percent), Nev. (5 percent), Colo. (4 percent), N.M. (2 percent), Utah (2 percent), and other federal and DOD installations nationwide (2 percent), and is expected to be completed by May 2014. Task Order 0001 is being awarded at $1,942,689.00 for Program Management Office over sight at the time of award. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by May 2010. Contract funds for Task Order 0001 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities and Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with four proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-09-D-2622).
QinetiQ, Inc., Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $44,893,398 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the development and manufacture of seven Zephyr High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial systems and one ground station. The HALE will offer solar-powered, persistent coverage capability with mission durations of up to 3 months continuous operation. Work will be performed in Farnborough Hampshire, United Kingdom, and is expected to be completed in May 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via a Broad Agency Announcement. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-09-C-0194).
ERAPSCO, Columbia City, Ind., is being awarded a $31,316,120 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 7,320 AN/SSQ-101A sonobuoys and 20 test, analyze and fix units in support of the Navy Antisubmarine Forces. Work will be performed in DeLeon Springs, Fla. (65 percent), and Columbia City, Ind. (35 percent), and is expected to be completed in May 2011 Contract funds in the amount of $229,070 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-09-C-0068).
AIR FORCE
Resubmission from yesterday, 13 May – Spelled out acronym (MSIAC) from yesterday
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Alion Science and Technology Corporation of Chicago, Illinois for an estimated $6,411,510. This contract action is for a Modeling and Simulation Information Analysis Center will provide research analysis, findings and recommendations to the newly established Army Enterprise Task Force to establish an enterprise approach to Army decision making management process. At this time, $434,782 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity. (FA8722-09-C-0001)
NEW
The Air Force is awarding a firm fixed price contract to Raytheon Missile Systems Company of Tucson, Ariz., for $53,919,693. This action will provide miniature air launched decoy Low Rate Production for 25 month production effort to include all 162 up rounds, 81 containers, warranty rotable spares and a 12-month Interim Contractor Support. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA8682-09-C-0059)
The Air Force is awarding a contract to Lockheed Martin Corporation of Gaithersburg, Md., for $43,036,000. This contract will provide the satellite broadcast management functions of the Global Broadcast Services will be transferred to the Defense Enterprise Computing Center with new hardware and software architecture by FY 2010. At this time, $5,931,000 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/KCK, Bedford, Mass., is the contracting activity. (FA8726-09-0006)
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to M/A-COM, Inc. of Lowell, Massachusetts for $14,801,848. This action will design, develop and demonstration of low-cost wireless network nodes which support adaptation by means of distributed network processing for the Wireless Adaptable Network Node. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, N.Y. is the contracting activity. (FA8750-07-C-0005, P00006)
ARMY
Ledoor Construction, Richardson, Texas. was awarded on May 12, 2009 a $ 20,328,178 firm-fixed-price construction contract for the construction of Fort Bliss Commissary. Work is to be performed in Fort Bliss, Texas, with an estimated completion date of May 9, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with five bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Little Rock, Ark., is the contracting activity (W9127S-09-C-6002).
Daimler Trucks North America LLC, Portland, Ore., was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $7,945,947 firm-fixed-price 9 year requirements contract for delivery order 0116 adds 37 each, M916A3 light equipment transporters to the contract. Work is to be performed in Portland, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2009. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with two bids received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-S022).
Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $ 7,815,629 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to greatly increase the effectiveness of personnel recovery missions within the Marines and potentially the other services. This will provide soldiers low cost, easy to use tags to quickly and efficiently indicate a state of distress initiating rescue. Work is to be performed in San Diego, Calif. (22.5 percent), Lowell, Mass. (69.3 percent), and Redwood City, Calif. (8.2 percent) with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity. (HR0011-09-C-0006)
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. (DRS SSI) Saint Louis, Mo., was awarded on May 08, 2009 a $ 22,972,589 STS cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the base award of 232,000 hours of system technical support for the M1200 Knight vehicle system for FY09/FY10, with an option for an additional 48,000 hours. Work is to be performed in St. Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S.A. TACOM LCMC- Warren, AMSCC-TAC-AHLC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0398)
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. (DRS SSI) Saint Louis, Mo., was awarded on May 08, 2009 an $11,987,030 firm-fixed-price contract for 38 each, M2100 armored Knight vehicles and 10 each of six individual items of authorized stockage list spare parts. An option is available for 42 each, M2100 Armored Knight Vehicles and 12 each of six individual items of authorized stockage list spare parts. Work is to be performed in St. Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 30, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S.A. TACOM LCMC- Warren, AMSCC-AQ-AHLC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0397).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missile and Fires Control (LMMFC) Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded on May 11, 2009 a $11,851,101 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the acquisition of nineteen each High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) increased crew protection cabs for the Army and seven each for the Marine Corp as kits for installation on HIMARS M142 launchers and required spare items. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas (20 percent), Sealy, Texas (53 percent), Rock Center, W.V. (14 percent), and White Sands Missile Range, N.M. (13 percent) with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Army Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-06-C-0140).
Air Force Leaders Chart Way Forward for Service
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - The Air Force has made tough choices and some prudent trade-offs to balance the service across the spectrum of capabilities needed for the future, Air Force leaders said. Air Force Secretary Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz discussed the service's efforts to balance between today's operations and tomorrow's needs. The two spoke to a group of reporters in the Pentagon today.
The service is working to balance the missions from irregular warfare on one end of the spectrum of conflict to nuclear deterrent operations on the other.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates agreed with an Air Force recommendation to retire early 250 older aircraft, to allow the service to reprogram money to other areas. "[The decision] allows us to take some additional strategic risk over the next six to seven years, which we think, given the threat environment and the current strategic interests, is a good time to take this risk," Gates said.
The service will reinvest the money into modifying the remaining aircraft, improving munitions and moving manpower into new high-demand requirements. These requirements include unmanned aerial vehicles, the nuclear enterprise and in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
"At the same time, we also focused on the future of the tactical air force structure and on fifth generation solutions," Donley said. "Our interest is in getting on with the Joint Strike Fighter program."
The service ultimately will buy more than 1,700 of these aircraft. The fiscal 2010 budget request looks to increase testing of the aircraft and buying 30.
The Air Force also intends to go ahead with F-22 modifications, budgeting more than $1 billion for it in fiscal 2010, Donley said. "We think this is a good package for the Air Force and that it makes good strategic sense," he said.
The secretary also highlighted the Air Force acquisition improvement plan, which began after the General Accountability Office found the service erred in its contract for the new tanker.
The first component of the plan is to strengthen and improve the acquisition workforce. The Air Force is to hire about 2,000 employees over the next year; provide additional training to all acquisition personnel; and beef up systems engineering and cost analysis capabilities.
A second area of emphasis is to pay more attention to requirements and to ensure Air Force officials understand the technology risks involved in meeting operator demands for more capabilities.
A third area for improvement is financial stability, and a fourth is a stronger source selection process. "This is where we make the final procurement decisions and the Air Force has already started retraining personnel for this highly visible portion of the acquisition," Donley said.
The final area reviews the Air Force organizational structure.
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - The Air Force has made tough choices and some prudent trade-offs to balance the service across the spectrum of capabilities needed for the future, Air Force leaders said. Air Force Secretary Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz discussed the service's efforts to balance between today's operations and tomorrow's needs. The two spoke to a group of reporters in the Pentagon today.
The service is working to balance the missions from irregular warfare on one end of the spectrum of conflict to nuclear deterrent operations on the other.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates agreed with an Air Force recommendation to retire early 250 older aircraft, to allow the service to reprogram money to other areas. "[The decision] allows us to take some additional strategic risk over the next six to seven years, which we think, given the threat environment and the current strategic interests, is a good time to take this risk," Gates said.
The service will reinvest the money into modifying the remaining aircraft, improving munitions and moving manpower into new high-demand requirements. These requirements include unmanned aerial vehicles, the nuclear enterprise and in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
"At the same time, we also focused on the future of the tactical air force structure and on fifth generation solutions," Donley said. "Our interest is in getting on with the Joint Strike Fighter program."
The service ultimately will buy more than 1,700 of these aircraft. The fiscal 2010 budget request looks to increase testing of the aircraft and buying 30.
The Air Force also intends to go ahead with F-22 modifications, budgeting more than $1 billion for it in fiscal 2010, Donley said. "We think this is a good package for the Air Force and that it makes good strategic sense," he said.
The secretary also highlighted the Air Force acquisition improvement plan, which began after the General Accountability Office found the service erred in its contract for the new tanker.
The first component of the plan is to strengthen and improve the acquisition workforce. The Air Force is to hire about 2,000 employees over the next year; provide additional training to all acquisition personnel; and beef up systems engineering and cost analysis capabilities.
A second area of emphasis is to pay more attention to requirements and to ensure Air Force officials understand the technology risks involved in meeting operator demands for more capabilities.
A third area for improvement is financial stability, and a fourth is a stronger source selection process. "This is where we make the final procurement decisions and the Air Force has already started retraining personnel for this highly visible portion of the acquisition," Donley said.
The final area reviews the Air Force organizational structure.
Biden Announces Pentagon Housing Assistance Program Expansion
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - Vice President Joe Biden today announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million devoted to servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss due to the country's struggling housing market. The financial support comes from President Barack Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to supplement the department's Homeowner's Assistance Program, Biden said aboard the USS Ronald Reagan during a visit with sailors and their families at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego.
The funds are allocated to provide benefits to military and civilian employees, according to a specific priority order, who suffered housing financial losses since 2006.
"The sacrifices military families make for our country, in terms of deployments but also moving several times in their career, are immense," he said. "They often don't get to choose when they move and may be forced to sell their homes when they don't want to."
Several times during the average military career, military members may be ordered to change duty stations to meet the mission requirements for their respective branch of service. Duty calls on servicemembers and their families to relocate and establish a new home as frequently as every two to three years. Many have moved because of base closures under the 2005 Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act.
Some families have been forced to sell their homes despite the possibility of losing thousands of dollars amid the country's struggling economy and housing market. Many military members can't afford to own a home near Fort Bragg, N.C., and rent or buy another near Scott Air Force Base, Ill., for example.
"We are in the middle of a credit and housing crises, and we recognize that military families cannot generally choose when to move," the vice president said, "so we've used the Recovery Act to dramatically expand what was once a fairly small program, assisting families forced to relocate due to base closures or normal assignment rotations."
The initiative isn't entirely new, however. The Pentagon has offered and provided similar financial assistance to military and civilian employees for more than 40 years, defense officials said. Until now, the program's primary support has focused on those who owned homes and lost money near closed or soon-to-be-closed down military installations under BRAC.
With the expansion, the Pentagon can now provide partial reimbursement for home-sale losses to other groups. The priority order for the benefits, according to Pentagon officials, are as followed:
-- Wounded servicemembers relocating for treatment or medical retirement, and for the surviving family members of those who have died while on deployment.
-- Military and Defense Department civilian employees affected by BRAC without the need to prove whether the base closure or the general housing market decline caused the loss.
-- Normal permanent change of station moves, but only on a retroactive basis that covers PCS moves between July 1, 2006, through Dec. 31, 2009.
All active and former members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as DoD civilians who have sold a home since 2006 may visit the Homeowners Assistance Program Website to learn specific program criteria and eligibility.
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - Vice President Joe Biden today announced the Defense Department's plan to expand its housing assistance program with $555 million devoted to servicemembers forced to sell their homes at a loss due to the country's struggling housing market. The financial support comes from President Barack Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to supplement the department's Homeowner's Assistance Program, Biden said aboard the USS Ronald Reagan during a visit with sailors and their families at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego.
The funds are allocated to provide benefits to military and civilian employees, according to a specific priority order, who suffered housing financial losses since 2006.
"The sacrifices military families make for our country, in terms of deployments but also moving several times in their career, are immense," he said. "They often don't get to choose when they move and may be forced to sell their homes when they don't want to."
Several times during the average military career, military members may be ordered to change duty stations to meet the mission requirements for their respective branch of service. Duty calls on servicemembers and their families to relocate and establish a new home as frequently as every two to three years. Many have moved because of base closures under the 2005 Defense Base Realignment and Closure Act.
Some families have been forced to sell their homes despite the possibility of losing thousands of dollars amid the country's struggling economy and housing market. Many military members can't afford to own a home near Fort Bragg, N.C., and rent or buy another near Scott Air Force Base, Ill., for example.
"We are in the middle of a credit and housing crises, and we recognize that military families cannot generally choose when to move," the vice president said, "so we've used the Recovery Act to dramatically expand what was once a fairly small program, assisting families forced to relocate due to base closures or normal assignment rotations."
The initiative isn't entirely new, however. The Pentagon has offered and provided similar financial assistance to military and civilian employees for more than 40 years, defense officials said. Until now, the program's primary support has focused on those who owned homes and lost money near closed or soon-to-be-closed down military installations under BRAC.
With the expansion, the Pentagon can now provide partial reimbursement for home-sale losses to other groups. The priority order for the benefits, according to Pentagon officials, are as followed:
-- Wounded servicemembers relocating for treatment or medical retirement, and for the surviving family members of those who have died while on deployment.
-- Military and Defense Department civilian employees affected by BRAC without the need to prove whether the base closure or the general housing market decline caused the loss.
-- Normal permanent change of station moves, but only on a retroactive basis that covers PCS moves between July 1, 2006, through Dec. 31, 2009.
All active and former members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as DoD civilians who have sold a home since 2006 may visit the Homeowners Assistance Program Website to learn specific program criteria and eligibility.
22nd Security Policy Initiative Held
The U.S. Department of Defense and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Ministry of National Defense held the 22nd Security Policy Initiative (SPI) today in Washington, D.C.
The U.S. delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia Michael Schiffer and the ROK delegation was led by Deputy Minister for Policy Lt. Gen. Kim, Sang Ki.
During the 22nd SPI, the two sides discussed a range of U.S.-ROK Alliance issues in a continuing effort to strengthen the bilateral defense relationship and ensure the solidarity of the combined defense posture.
The two sides discussed the close US-ROK coordination related to North Korea's long-range rocket launch and agreed to continue such coordination. Also, both sides reviewed current U.S.-ROK Alliance issues, including the USFK base relocation plans and future implementation of those plans.
The SPI is a policy-level U.S.-ROK dialogue held every two to three months, alternating in venue between Washington, D.C., and Seoul. It is a consultative mechanism used to strengthen the future vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and to discuss ways to develop defense policy to cope with the changing security environment.
The U.S. delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia Michael Schiffer and the ROK delegation was led by Deputy Minister for Policy Lt. Gen. Kim, Sang Ki.
During the 22nd SPI, the two sides discussed a range of U.S.-ROK Alliance issues in a continuing effort to strengthen the bilateral defense relationship and ensure the solidarity of the combined defense posture.
The two sides discussed the close US-ROK coordination related to North Korea's long-range rocket launch and agreed to continue such coordination. Also, both sides reviewed current U.S.-ROK Alliance issues, including the USFK base relocation plans and future implementation of those plans.
The SPI is a policy-level U.S.-ROK dialogue held every two to three months, alternating in venue between Washington, D.C., and Seoul. It is a consultative mechanism used to strengthen the future vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and to discuss ways to develop defense policy to cope with the changing security environment.
Budget, Acquisition Reforms Reflect 'New Direction in Defense,' Lynn Says
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - The defense department's budget and acquisition reform efforts represent a dramatic, and needed, departure from the past, so that the U.S. military can stay strong and be flexible in challenging times, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III said here today. "The United States of America has the best-trained, the best-equipped, the best-led military that the world has ever seen, and we intend to keep it that way," Lynn told attendees at the annual Joint Warfighting Conference that ended here today.
Lynn served as the Defense Department's comptroller from 1997 until 2001. Four years prior to that, he was the director of Program Analysis and Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
President Barack Obama's proposed fiscal 2010 defense budget announced earlier this week increases defense spending by 4 percent, Lynn said, for a total expenditure of $534 billion.
"We need to uphold our solemn commitment to take care of our all-volunteer force, to ensure that they can prevail in the wars that they are in now," Lynn said. To this end, he said, Army and Marine Corp troop plus-ups have been achieved two years early, while previously planned cuts in Air Force and Navy personnel have been halted.
The more than $13 billion increase in the 2010 defense budget's personnel account, Lynn said, will be used to fund military and civilian pay raises, to provide new troop barracks, family housing and child care centers, and to fully fund military health care, including programs for wounded warriors.
The defense department also is ending the practice of funding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan through a budget supplemental process separate from the annual budget, Lynn said.
Lynn also said that the fiscal 2010 defense budget strengthens computer-system security by providing funds to triple the number of defense cyber experts. And, President Obama's 60-day review of the nation's cyber policy has been completed, he said, noting the report likely will be released in the coming days.
Meanwhile, recent tough budget- and acquisition-related decisions that scaled back or jettisoned unnecessary or too-costly defense programs reflect the intent of the Obama administration and the Pentagon to embark on "a new direction in defense," Lynn said.
"President Obama has made it clear that it is time to break out of the conventional thinking that has failed to keep pace with unconventional threats," Lynn said.
Obama and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates are consequently making hard decisions and bold changes as they propose far-reaching reforms during the first defense budget the president is presiding over, Lynn said.
"This budget is one of the most-dramatic set of reforms I've seen," Lynn said, "from the forces and systems we field, to how we develop them."
For example, he said, U.S. and allies' concerns about missile defense needs are growing. Unfortunately, billions of dollars have been spent on missile defense programs facing major technological challenges or questionable operational roles, Lynn said.
As a result, Lynn said, the Pentagon has decided to restructure its missile defense program to focus on the theater missile threat from rogue states.
"We decided not to invest in the second airborne laser prototype aircraft and we're terminating the multiple-kill vehicle program," Lynn said of those costly, high-tech programs. Instead, he said, the U.S. will focus investment on its capable Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and sea-based SM-3 missile defense systems. Also, he added, the Pentagon proposes to convert six more Aegis-class ships to provide additional theater missile-defense coverage.
"In fact, across a whole range of programs, we've made a decision to halt or delay production of systems that relied on promising, but unproven technology," Lynn said, "while continuing to produce, and if necessary, upgrade, systems that are best in class and we know will work."
That's why the new Presidential Helicopter Program was cancelled after its cost had doubled to more than $13 billion, Lynn said. The $19 billion Transformational Satellite Program also was axed due to its rising costs, he added.
"We'll instead buy two proven and more affordable satellites to fill the gap," Lynn said.
The 2010 fiscal defense budget, Lynn said, also funds military leaders' requirements to field joint forces that possess the right capabilities needed to confront both current and perceived future threats, Lynn said. Current threats, he noted, include today's terrorists and extremists who wage irregular warfare against U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Future potential threats, Lynn continued, include the possibility that a failed or weaker state could employ hybrid war -- a mix of irregular and conventional forces –- against U.S. forces, or that there may one day be a peer-to-peer conflict mostly waged with conventional forces.
Consequently, Lynn said, the decision was made to train, equip and field joint, balanced and flexible U.S. forces that can fight enemies practicing irregular, hybrid or conventional war.
The message, Lynn said, is that "from now on, irregular warfare is a regular part of America's military planning."
Senior Pentagon leaders are committed to the joint-force concept, Lynn said, which involves not only "the way we fight, but in the way we buy" equipment. For example, he said, production of the Air Force-centric F-22 fighter jet was ended at 187 aircraft, while more Joint Strike Fighter aircraft will be purchased.
It is imperative "to have an acquisition system that is as flexible and effective as the force it serves," Lynn said. "A modern, effective acquisition system should deliver savings and speed – savings to the taxpayer and speed for the warfighters that provides them the tools and technologies they need within the time they need them."
However, Lynn said, today's defense acquisition system fails to meet those criteria. That's why, he said, reform of the system is vital.
Therefore, he said, the defense department is launching five acquisition-reform initiatives. They are:
- Dramatically increase the acquisition workforce by 20,000 total positions.
- Bring more discipline to projects' requirements development, to better balance performance needs with respect to cost and schedule limitations.
- Improve cost estimating and reduce the risk of cost overruns by relying more heavily on independent, outside cost estimates.
- Strengthen the project-execution phase by making more use of fixed-price contract agreements, where appropriate, and by employing more steering boards to limit requirements "creep."
- Cancel poorly performing systems whenever they fail to meet desired requirements.
It's true, Lynn said, that numerous commissions and studies over the years have called for reform of the defense acquisition system without effect. However, Lynn said he is bullish that new efforts to reform the acquisition system will succeed, citing President Obama's, Capitol Hill's and the Pentagon's strong interest to do so.
"I'm optimistic that we will achieve real acquisition reform that will deliver real savings and increase speed of delivery to the warfighter," Lynn said.
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - The defense department's budget and acquisition reform efforts represent a dramatic, and needed, departure from the past, so that the U.S. military can stay strong and be flexible in challenging times, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III said here today. "The United States of America has the best-trained, the best-equipped, the best-led military that the world has ever seen, and we intend to keep it that way," Lynn told attendees at the annual Joint Warfighting Conference that ended here today.
Lynn served as the Defense Department's comptroller from 1997 until 2001. Four years prior to that, he was the director of Program Analysis and Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
President Barack Obama's proposed fiscal 2010 defense budget announced earlier this week increases defense spending by 4 percent, Lynn said, for a total expenditure of $534 billion.
"We need to uphold our solemn commitment to take care of our all-volunteer force, to ensure that they can prevail in the wars that they are in now," Lynn said. To this end, he said, Army and Marine Corp troop plus-ups have been achieved two years early, while previously planned cuts in Air Force and Navy personnel have been halted.
The more than $13 billion increase in the 2010 defense budget's personnel account, Lynn said, will be used to fund military and civilian pay raises, to provide new troop barracks, family housing and child care centers, and to fully fund military health care, including programs for wounded warriors.
The defense department also is ending the practice of funding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan through a budget supplemental process separate from the annual budget, Lynn said.
Lynn also said that the fiscal 2010 defense budget strengthens computer-system security by providing funds to triple the number of defense cyber experts. And, President Obama's 60-day review of the nation's cyber policy has been completed, he said, noting the report likely will be released in the coming days.
Meanwhile, recent tough budget- and acquisition-related decisions that scaled back or jettisoned unnecessary or too-costly defense programs reflect the intent of the Obama administration and the Pentagon to embark on "a new direction in defense," Lynn said.
"President Obama has made it clear that it is time to break out of the conventional thinking that has failed to keep pace with unconventional threats," Lynn said.
Obama and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates are consequently making hard decisions and bold changes as they propose far-reaching reforms during the first defense budget the president is presiding over, Lynn said.
"This budget is one of the most-dramatic set of reforms I've seen," Lynn said, "from the forces and systems we field, to how we develop them."
For example, he said, U.S. and allies' concerns about missile defense needs are growing. Unfortunately, billions of dollars have been spent on missile defense programs facing major technological challenges or questionable operational roles, Lynn said.
As a result, Lynn said, the Pentagon has decided to restructure its missile defense program to focus on the theater missile threat from rogue states.
"We decided not to invest in the second airborne laser prototype aircraft and we're terminating the multiple-kill vehicle program," Lynn said of those costly, high-tech programs. Instead, he said, the U.S. will focus investment on its capable Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and sea-based SM-3 missile defense systems. Also, he added, the Pentagon proposes to convert six more Aegis-class ships to provide additional theater missile-defense coverage.
"In fact, across a whole range of programs, we've made a decision to halt or delay production of systems that relied on promising, but unproven technology," Lynn said, "while continuing to produce, and if necessary, upgrade, systems that are best in class and we know will work."
That's why the new Presidential Helicopter Program was cancelled after its cost had doubled to more than $13 billion, Lynn said. The $19 billion Transformational Satellite Program also was axed due to its rising costs, he added.
"We'll instead buy two proven and more affordable satellites to fill the gap," Lynn said.
The 2010 fiscal defense budget, Lynn said, also funds military leaders' requirements to field joint forces that possess the right capabilities needed to confront both current and perceived future threats, Lynn said. Current threats, he noted, include today's terrorists and extremists who wage irregular warfare against U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Future potential threats, Lynn continued, include the possibility that a failed or weaker state could employ hybrid war -- a mix of irregular and conventional forces –- against U.S. forces, or that there may one day be a peer-to-peer conflict mostly waged with conventional forces.
Consequently, Lynn said, the decision was made to train, equip and field joint, balanced and flexible U.S. forces that can fight enemies practicing irregular, hybrid or conventional war.
The message, Lynn said, is that "from now on, irregular warfare is a regular part of America's military planning."
Senior Pentagon leaders are committed to the joint-force concept, Lynn said, which involves not only "the way we fight, but in the way we buy" equipment. For example, he said, production of the Air Force-centric F-22 fighter jet was ended at 187 aircraft, while more Joint Strike Fighter aircraft will be purchased.
It is imperative "to have an acquisition system that is as flexible and effective as the force it serves," Lynn said. "A modern, effective acquisition system should deliver savings and speed – savings to the taxpayer and speed for the warfighters that provides them the tools and technologies they need within the time they need them."
However, Lynn said, today's defense acquisition system fails to meet those criteria. That's why, he said, reform of the system is vital.
Therefore, he said, the defense department is launching five acquisition-reform initiatives. They are:
- Dramatically increase the acquisition workforce by 20,000 total positions.
- Bring more discipline to projects' requirements development, to better balance performance needs with respect to cost and schedule limitations.
- Improve cost estimating and reduce the risk of cost overruns by relying more heavily on independent, outside cost estimates.
- Strengthen the project-execution phase by making more use of fixed-price contract agreements, where appropriate, and by employing more steering boards to limit requirements "creep."
- Cancel poorly performing systems whenever they fail to meet desired requirements.
It's true, Lynn said, that numerous commissions and studies over the years have called for reform of the defense acquisition system without effect. However, Lynn said he is bullish that new efforts to reform the acquisition system will succeed, citing President Obama's, Capitol Hill's and the Pentagon's strong interest to do so.
"I'm optimistic that we will achieve real acquisition reform that will deliver real savings and increase speed of delivery to the warfighter," Lynn said.
Face of Defense: Captain Pursues Commitment to Fitness
By Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Matt ProiettiSpecial to American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2009 - Air Force Capt. Charlotta Blalock admits she gets some strange reactions from people when she does push-ups in the aisle of an aircraft 41,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. "I get teased a lot. My boss thinks I'm nuts," said Blalock, an amateur figure competitor of the National Physique Committee who travels up to 20 days a month in her job as aide-de-camp to Gen. Roger A. Brady, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and head of the NATO Allied Air Component Command here. "I can crank out 400 to 500 if we're heading to the U.S."
Though she has always been athletic, she said, the 36-year-old mother of two increased her commitment to fitness in 2005 while stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C. Working with a personal trainer, she started a new diet, worked on her body's weak spots and took gymnastics lessons to increase her flexibility. She went from exercising three to four times a week to five or six, and she expanded her focus from cardiovascular activities.
"I did some lifting, but with no organization," she said. "[The personal trainer] established that for me."
Blalock amplified her cardiovascular work as well, adding sprints and lots of inclines, and moved from using a treadmill to a StairMaster to an elliptical trainer.
"My fitness level was always high in terms of the cardio piece," the San Antonio native said. "Now I've turned this into the competition mode, which is a little bit different. I'm more fit now. I have less body fat."
She exercised under the trainer's tutelage for a year before being reassigned to Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., where she worked as executive officer at the 55th Wing before coming to Germany in June 2008.
Blalock competed in her first bodybuilding contest in 2005 and has since participated in five more, the most recent of which was the Texas Shredder Classic Bodybuilding, Figure, Fitness and Bikini Championships April 25 in Austin, Texas.
Rooting for her in person were her parents, Charles and Charmane Gilmore.
"My dad is proud," Blalock said. "[He's] in the audience yelling. He's embarrassing, actually."
Her father, a retired Air Force chief master sergeant, said there's an "aura of excitement" being in the audience when his daughter is onstage.
"[I'm] just kind of blown away to see her go out and compete," he said. "It's good for her to have something to put her heart and soul into. She's a strong young lady. I've seen nothing but the best out of her."
Blalock placed fifth among women 35 to 49 and received personal feedback on how she can be more competitive.
"I have work to do. I'm going to challenge myself to place better," the captain said. "They're very critical [and] take the whole bodybuilding thing seriously."
In the gym, the captain alternates body areas on which to focus. If it's a cardio day, she'll do 30 to 45 minutes of hard exercise to increase her heart rate, coupled with 30 minutes of relatively light weightlifting. When she concentrates on weights, she does 30 minutes of cardio work and lifts for 90. Between repetitions, she does pull-ups, crunches and circuit training.
"She's definitely focused," said Air Force 2nd Lt. Neil Wood of the 86th Air and Space Communications Group, who befriended Blalock last fall at Ramstein's Southside Fitness Center. "Once she starts, she's in the zone."
Capt. Michael McKenzie, who works at USAFE headquarters, said he admires Blalock's willpower when they travel together.
"We're inundated with free food [and] wine, and she just says, 'No, thanks.' She has amazing self-control. She is dedicated to her diet."
When they put in a 15-hour day, including flying elsewhere in Europe, "she heads straight to the gym when she's back at Ramstein," McKenzie said. "That's always impressed me."
Eight to 12 weeks before a competition, Blalock adjusts her diet, exercise routines and the amount of rest between working out specific areas of her body. Her pre-contest diet is made up of 10 percent fat, 40 percent carbohydrates and 50 percent protein.
"It's completely structured, and very strict," she said. "If I'm not looking like I think I need to look, if I'm not as lean as I think I need to be, then [there's] going to be a significant calorie cut."
When she's not preparing for a competition, Blalock said she puts on a couple of "vanity pounds."
"I eat clean for the most part," she said. "I do cheat. I like pizza. I'll eat a burger a couple of times per year. But as a lifestyle, I eat healthy."
She credits being fit with helping her deal with the workload she has as Brady's aide at USAFE headquarters. Another officer does the same job for the general in his NATO post.
"When you're fit, you feel good when you come to work. If I wasn't in really good shape, I'd have a hard time traveling as much as we do. Being fit helps [my] mental state to deal with those stresses."
She described her job as "overwhelmingly crazy, fun and humbling."
"You observe, you see a lot, you learn a lot," she said. "You often wonder how policies come about. Now I'm actually privy to kind of watch them in the early making of those decisions."
Though she works for one of the highest-ranking officers in the Air Force, getting a commission wasn't an early goal for Blalock when she was serving as an enlisted finance specialist.
"I wanted to be a chief, like my dad," she said.
With the encouragement of her superiors in the 60th Operations Group at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., she earned a bachelor's degree in education from Southern Illinois University and applied for a commission. She learned she had been accepted for Officer Training School while assigned to Osan Air Base, South Korea.
Blalock routinely scores "excellent" in the annual Air Force fitness test, but hasn't set a goal of scoring 100 on it. Completing the 1.5-mile run fast enough has been a chore, she said.
"I'm going to challenge myself to max it this year. The fact is, I could go test right now and get an 'excellent.' That doesn't motivate me, [but] if someone tells me I need to do [the run] in 11 minutes to get an 'excellent,' I'm going to get 11 minutes."
Her long-term fitness goal is to turn professional as a bodybuilder.
"It's a personal achievement; I'm no longer an amateur," she said. "They have recognized my body as a form of -- no kidding -- excellence, diet, training, discipline, commitment, all of that stuff. That's what it means to me."
(Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Matt Proietti serves in the U.S. Air Forces in Europe public affairs office.)
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