By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 6, 2009 - As the military prepares to step up its already robust environmental health monitoring program to identify possible health consequences of "burn pit" smoke exposures in the combat theater, President Barack Obama has pledged to ensure troops are protected, and any related ailments treated. "I'm absolutely convinced that our commanders in theater are doing everything they can to protect their men and women," the president told military reporters during a roundtable interview earlier this week at the White House.
But as the facts are sorted out -- an evolving process as more samples are collected and scientific data generated -- Obama vowed to bring them to light so they can benefit servicemembers and veterans.
"My overriding mandate to my agencies is that you get the best science possible, and then you make decisions on how we can protect our men and women in uniform," he said. "How can we treat those who have been harmed?"
At issue are open-air "burn pits" initially constructed in the combat theater to dispose of solid wastes. Force protection issues during the combat phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom precluded hauling this waste off base for destruction, explained Dr. Craig Postlewaite, the Pentagon's force readiness and health assurance director, assigned to the office of the deputy assistant secretary for force health protection and readiness.
Some troops who were deployed near these pits blame the smoke they emitted for causing respiratory problems, blood disorders and other ailments.
While conceding that these servicemembers and veterans have genuine health issues, Postlewaite said none of the data gathered so far provides concrete evidence that burn pit smoke is the culprit.
A "very robust" occupational and environmental health surveillance program that's collected more than 17,000 air, water and soil samples where U.S. troops are operating didn't raise any big concerns, he said.
Neither did an extensive screening health-risk assessment at Joint Base Balad, home of the theater's largest burn pit. Those tests, conducted in 2007 and completed last year, used sophisticated sampling devices to collect 163 representative samples over a four-month period, Postlewaite explained.
Pentagon scientists applied Environmental Protection Agency methods to evaluate 4,000 different data points. They took the different smoke concentrations gathered and considered the worst-case -- and as Postlewaite pointed out, nearly implausible -- scenario: that someone had been exposed to those smoke levels 24 hours a day, seven days a week for up to a year.
The evaluation confirmed that burn-pit smoke is irritating, causing some people to experience red, watery eyes, tickly throats and coughing, among other symptoms. But based on the data collected, evaluators could not identify any long-term health risks, including cancer, Postlewaite reported.
The Pentagon wanted its findings validated by an independent third party, so it sent them to the Defense Health Board for review. The board, made up of noted experts in the field, agreed with the Pentagon's findings. "They did not see any long-term, elevated health risk," Postlewaite said.
Postlewaite conceded there could be holes in the findings. The study was based on four months of sampling. It included just one burn pit, albeit the largest, and covered only what was being burned during the sampling period. And there's simply no way to go back in time to replicate the exact conditions some troops were exposed to at an earlier time.
On top of this, there's a proven historic link between deployments and respiratory disease, Postlewaite said. Rates went up for troops who deployed to the Middle East during the Gulf War and to Bosnia as part of the NATO security force. New environments mean new allergens, new viruses and other new conditions that affect the respiratory system.
Other factors come into play, too, Postlewaite said. What's simply irritating to one person might cause more chronic conditions in another. The reason may be genetic. It may be linked to a previous respiratory infection or other reduced immunity, or it could be linked to smoking.
"These are difficult, difficult questions to answer, even here in this country where we have a huge public health infrastructure," Postlewaite said. "But we are going to do our best to tease this apart."
So the Defense Department is stepping up its testing of burn pit smoke. U.S. Central Command has asked for help to put together a monitoring plan so it can collect air samples at additional burn pits in Iraq as well as Afghanistan
Many used earlier in the war have been replaced by incinerators. Joint Base Balad now has four incinerators, and its burn pit is expected to close soon.
A broad Defense Department effort is focusing on the issue, bringing together the expertise embodied in the Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center, the Defense Department's Deployment Health Research Center, the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine and the Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine.
Postlewaite called getting to the bottom of the issue a responsibility to the troops, and said the Defense Department will lay its findings on the line.
"We are absolutely open to full transparency," he said. "Our job is to protect the health of servicemembers, and clearly, if we have information that indicates that they are at risk, that information will be shared and measures will be implemented to reduce or eliminate the risks."
Obama made it clear at the White House roundtable he wants to get the information out as it becomes available. "I don't want us hiding the ball if there is a real problem there," he said.
Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, who joined Obama at the roundtable, said he doesn't want burn pits to become this generation's Agent Orange -- a reference to the defoliant used in Vietnam that's been linked to cancer and other medical problems.
VA is working with the Defense Department "to do the kinds of sampling we didn't do for Agent Orange," he said, and comparing samples of servicemembers exposed to burn pit smoke with those of veterans who weren't.
VA also may consider expanding its mandatory screening for brain injuries and stress disorders to include a screening for burn pit smoke exposure, he said. The idea, Shinseki said, is to identify problems early and get veterans the treatment they need.
"I can tell you, part of my frustration is dealing with the issues of Agent Orange 40 years after the last use of Agent Orange," he said. "So my interest is, 'How do we change what has been the 40-year journey of Agent Orange, the 20-year journey of Gulf War Illness" and prevent a similar journey for burn pit smoke?
Thursday, August 06, 2009
AIR FORCE OFFICIALS TO HONOR TUSKEGEE AIRMEN OF 1949 “TOP GUN” FIGHTER
Air Force officials from the Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, will be on hand to mark the 60th anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen’s victory at the first (1949) United States Air Force National Fighter Gunnery Competition, Thursday, 5 p.m., in Salon G of the Palace Station Hotel. This event will also mark the start of the 38th Annual Tuskegee Airmen Convention (August 6-9, 2009).
In 1949, the 10-day competition was held at what was then-Las Vegas Air Force Base. Nearly all fighter groups in the continental United States participated with an aim to hone America’s military pilot’s skills in their collective pursuit of aviation excellence. Shooting it out for top honors, Top Guns were named in two categories – Group and Individual. When the score were tallied, Tuskegee Airmen, flying for the 332nd Fighter Group in P-47N, were tops in the group and Lt. Alva Temple, one of four pilots from the 332nd Fighter Group placed second in the individual category.
As times were then, racial challenges abounded for members of the 332nd. Despite their impressive record during World War II, where the highly decorated group remains among the best fighter escort organization perhaps in the history of aerial combat, its fighter pilots were considered “poor marksmen” by their American counterparts because the unit had no “documented” Aces, despite eye-witness reports to the contrary. For years, official accounts of the 1949 competition had no mention of the Tuskegee Airmen as winners or participants.
During the 1949 National Fighter Gunnery Competition, the 332nd pilots, maintenance workers and support personnel were removed from Flamingo Hotel (on the Strip) simply because they were African Americans. It was only after winning the “Top-Gun” competition and with the full weight of the new U.S. Air Force behind them that the Tuskegee Airmen were allowed back into the hotel for the awards ceremony. Two months later, the U.S. Armed Forces was desegregated.
Lt. James Harvey, now a resident of Montclair, New Jersey, and Master Sergeant Buford Johnson, the 1949 team maintenance chief and now a reside of Longview, Texas, will be in attendance at Thursday evening’s ceremony at the Palace Station Hotel (Salon G).
Media representatives wishing to cover the event should RSVP by 4 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2009 by calling (951) 961.2301 or send an email to: andra.higgs@march.af.mil.
In 1949, the 10-day competition was held at what was then-Las Vegas Air Force Base. Nearly all fighter groups in the continental United States participated with an aim to hone America’s military pilot’s skills in their collective pursuit of aviation excellence. Shooting it out for top honors, Top Guns were named in two categories – Group and Individual. When the score were tallied, Tuskegee Airmen, flying for the 332nd Fighter Group in P-47N, were tops in the group and Lt. Alva Temple, one of four pilots from the 332nd Fighter Group placed second in the individual category.
As times were then, racial challenges abounded for members of the 332nd. Despite their impressive record during World War II, where the highly decorated group remains among the best fighter escort organization perhaps in the history of aerial combat, its fighter pilots were considered “poor marksmen” by their American counterparts because the unit had no “documented” Aces, despite eye-witness reports to the contrary. For years, official accounts of the 1949 competition had no mention of the Tuskegee Airmen as winners or participants.
During the 1949 National Fighter Gunnery Competition, the 332nd pilots, maintenance workers and support personnel were removed from Flamingo Hotel (on the Strip) simply because they were African Americans. It was only after winning the “Top-Gun” competition and with the full weight of the new U.S. Air Force behind them that the Tuskegee Airmen were allowed back into the hotel for the awards ceremony. Two months later, the U.S. Armed Forces was desegregated.
Lt. James Harvey, now a resident of Montclair, New Jersey, and Master Sergeant Buford Johnson, the 1949 team maintenance chief and now a reside of Longview, Texas, will be in attendance at Thursday evening’s ceremony at the Palace Station Hotel (Salon G).
Media representatives wishing to cover the event should RSVP by 4 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2009 by calling (951) 961.2301 or send an email to: andra.higgs@march.af.mil.
All hail AC/DC...who are those Anvil Guys? Oh Canada?
In a previous post I said I'd start talking about heavy metal. Well, here it goes. Saw AC/DC last Friday at Giant's Stadium, third time this tour for me.
They play five songs off the new album (Runaway Train, Big Jack, War Machine, Black Ice, Anything Goes) the standards from the Brian Johnson era (the Back in Black songs, Thunderstruck, and For Those About to Rock), and a bunch of stuff from the old days, and usually a random song. Last Friday it was Shot Down in Flames.
There's really nothing I can say about them that hasn't already been said. They're awesome, that's it. Great songs, great show.
Interestingly, one of the opening acts was Anvil. This band has been getting a lot of PR lately due to the documentary made about them, chronicling their trials and tribulations. I really wanted to like them, I really did. They sounded, OK, I guess, if a bit dated, but their show sucked. Let me put it this way, I didn't even realize it was over, and I don't think anyone else in the audience did either. Most of the songs were off their first album, Metal on Metal, which I own. It was cut in 1982, so maybe maybe listening to it after 25 years of metal evolution biases one against the work. Its derivative of Black Sabbath (nothing wrong with that) but sounds raw and unthoughtout, almost immature. As I said, in 1982 it would sound better, but in 2009, Metal on Metal is a no go. I will be interested to see what their upcoming work is like.
These guys defiantly have something, but for some reason, they haven't found it. I hope they do.
Will Stroock's Novel about Operation Desert Storm can be purchased at Amazon
Hiroshima Bombing
Today is the 64th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. For some reason this decision has been vigorously debated in some circles. Was the bombing justified, was it a war crime was it racist?Somehow, the suffering of the Japanese at the hands of Fat Man and Little Boy dominate the narrative, while those of Chinese, Korean, Filipino, British, American, and Australian POWs is being forgotten. Review the movie, The Great Raid, about the American liberation of Japanese POW camp, a New York Times critic noted, 'Its scenes of torture and murder also unapologetically revive the uncomfortable stereotype of the Japanese soldier as a sadistic, slant-eyed fiend.'
Sorry old boy, but the Rape of Nanking, Unit 731, the Manila Massacre, to name a few incidents, were not hoaxes. They happened. The Japanese were cruel occupiers, and revelled in recreational brutality. You see, it's not a stereotype, if that's what they really did.
Oh, and we didn't drop the bomb on the Japanese because we were racists. In fact, the bomb was developed because our nulcear physicists, Fermi, Oppenheimer, Scillard, et al, were concerned that their German colleague, Heisenberg, was building one for Hitler. So they wrote a letter and had a certain A. Einstein deliver it to President Roosevelt.
One last thing, in the spring of 1945, my grandfather joined a medical unit, attached to the 4th Infantry Division, which would have gone ashore with the first wave. The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki spared him that. Thank you, President Truman.
The Japanese deserved everything they received at the hands of the United States. They started the war, we finished it.Will Stroock's Novel about Operation Desert Storm can be purchased at Amazon.
Army Reserve, Guard Launch Partnership with State Employers
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 6, 2009 - The Army Reserve and National Guard signed partnership agreements with dozens of Chicago and Illinois state employers yesterday to enhance job opportunities for soldiers and veterans. "It is our duty to take care of veterans, who have answered the call to duty and bravely defended our country," said Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn. "I salute Helmets to Hardhats and all the partners here today. We join together in signing this memo of understanding so that we can help provide our servicemembers and veterans the jobs they deserve."
The alliances, launched as part of the Army Reserve Employer Partnership Initiative, will help strengthen the community and support Reserve and National Guard members and their families, officials said.
"I'm pleased to begin lasting partnerships with the state of Illinois and so many of the Chicago area's leading employers," said Army Reserve Chief Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz. "I look forward to collaborating with our newest valued partners to achieve mutual goals to attract, develop and retain a quality work force. "This is a natural partnership, because today's partners have always been great friends of the military."
Among the partners who joined the initiative are the state of Illinois, city of Chicago, Chicago 2016, Cook County, Teamsters Joint Council 25, the Chicago and Cook County Building Trades Council, Chicago Federation of Labor and Service Employees International Union.
"The Teamsters are committed to ensuring veteran soldiers forever play a role in strengthening our economy and contributing to the future of our communities," said John T. Coli, president of Teamsters Joint Council 25. "Joint Council 25 is honored to bring the Army Reserve and National Guard together with so many of Illinois' esteemed employers in support of our soldiers and their families."
The Army Reserve is teaming with business leaders and public officials across the country to develop staffing solutions to meet industry demands, tackle the issue of workforce preparedness, and reinvigorate the employee base to remain competitive in the global economy, officials said.
"We have about 3,000 soldiers of the Illinois National Guard returning from deployment with an economy that soured while they were gone," said Army Maj. Gen. William L. Enyart, Illinois adjutant general. "Commitments like these from employers and efforts such as the Employer Partnership Initiative as well as the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve's programs will help ensure these troops have jobs to come back to."
Since its inception in April 2008, more than 400 public and private employers have joined the initiative, officials said.
(From an Army Reserve news release.)
Aug. 6, 2009 - The Army Reserve and National Guard signed partnership agreements with dozens of Chicago and Illinois state employers yesterday to enhance job opportunities for soldiers and veterans. "It is our duty to take care of veterans, who have answered the call to duty and bravely defended our country," said Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn. "I salute Helmets to Hardhats and all the partners here today. We join together in signing this memo of understanding so that we can help provide our servicemembers and veterans the jobs they deserve."
The alliances, launched as part of the Army Reserve Employer Partnership Initiative, will help strengthen the community and support Reserve and National Guard members and their families, officials said.
"I'm pleased to begin lasting partnerships with the state of Illinois and so many of the Chicago area's leading employers," said Army Reserve Chief Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz. "I look forward to collaborating with our newest valued partners to achieve mutual goals to attract, develop and retain a quality work force. "This is a natural partnership, because today's partners have always been great friends of the military."
Among the partners who joined the initiative are the state of Illinois, city of Chicago, Chicago 2016, Cook County, Teamsters Joint Council 25, the Chicago and Cook County Building Trades Council, Chicago Federation of Labor and Service Employees International Union.
"The Teamsters are committed to ensuring veteran soldiers forever play a role in strengthening our economy and contributing to the future of our communities," said John T. Coli, president of Teamsters Joint Council 25. "Joint Council 25 is honored to bring the Army Reserve and National Guard together with so many of Illinois' esteemed employers in support of our soldiers and their families."
The Army Reserve is teaming with business leaders and public officials across the country to develop staffing solutions to meet industry demands, tackle the issue of workforce preparedness, and reinvigorate the employee base to remain competitive in the global economy, officials said.
"We have about 3,000 soldiers of the Illinois National Guard returning from deployment with an economy that soured while they were gone," said Army Maj. Gen. William L. Enyart, Illinois adjutant general. "Commitments like these from employers and efforts such as the Employer Partnership Initiative as well as the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve's programs will help ensure these troops have jobs to come back to."
Since its inception in April 2008, more than 400 public and private employers have joined the initiative, officials said.
(From an Army Reserve news release.)
WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion
On August 20, 2009, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature an interview of Lisa Spahr the author of WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion.
Program Date: August 20, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/21/WWII-Radio-Heroes-Letters-of-Compassion
About the Guest
Lisa Spahr, a former volunteer firefighter, “is an investigative psychologist who owns a life coaching and consulting business in Pittsburgh PA. Ms. Spahr has an extensive history in the field of research for universities and private organizations, focusing on law and psychiatry research, military applications, and policing operations and tactics. Examples of her work include: examining the construct of psychopathy in prisoner and juvenile populations, and creating guidelines for suicide bomb response for police officers in the United States.
Lisa Spahr said of WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion, “More than 60 years had gone by before I found them. Dozens and dozens of letters written to my family during WWII- from total strangers- to tell my great-grandmother that her son had been captured and was being held as a POW. How did they know this? Well, it seems that the short-wave radio had held all of the answers. POWs were allowed to state their names and hometowns on the radio, and sometimes relay a short message to their families. Scores of Americans, listening to the German propaganda from so far away, heard my grandfather's information, and took it upon themselves to write to my great-grandmother. All of these dear people wanted to give my great-grandmother a measure of comfort to know her son was alive.”
About American Heroes Radio
American Heroes Radio broadcasts from the Watering Hole; for a location heroes 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, Public Safety 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/2009/08/21/WWII-Radio-Heroes-Letters-of-Compassion
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: August 20, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/21/WWII-Radio-Heroes-Letters-of-Compassion
About the Guest
Lisa Spahr, a former volunteer firefighter, “is an investigative psychologist who owns a life coaching and consulting business in Pittsburgh PA. Ms. Spahr has an extensive history in the field of research for universities and private organizations, focusing on law and psychiatry research, military applications, and policing operations and tactics. Examples of her work include: examining the construct of psychopathy in prisoner and juvenile populations, and creating guidelines for suicide bomb response for police officers in the United States.
Lisa Spahr said of WWII Radio Heroes: Letters of Compassion, “More than 60 years had gone by before I found them. Dozens and dozens of letters written to my family during WWII- from total strangers- to tell my great-grandmother that her son had been captured and was being held as a POW. How did they know this? Well, it seems that the short-wave radio had held all of the answers. POWs were allowed to state their names and hometowns on the radio, and sometimes relay a short message to their families. Scores of Americans, listening to the German propaganda from so far away, heard my grandfather's information, and took it upon themselves to write to my great-grandmother. All of these dear people wanted to give my great-grandmother a measure of comfort to know her son was alive.”
About American Heroes Radio
American Heroes Radio broadcasts from the Watering Hole; for a location heroes 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, Public Safety 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/2009/08/21/WWII-Radio-Heroes-Letters-of-Compassion
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Executive Coach Leadership
Editor's Note: The author is a former servicemember.
August 5, 2009 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press announced that the co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.) will be a guest on the internet-based radio program Leading the Way to Success with Executive Coach Judy Nelson.
Date: August 8, 2009
Time: 9:30 AM PACIFIC
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/CoachJudyNelson/2009/08/08/Raymond-E-Foster-author-Leadership-Texas-Hold-Em-Style
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Leading the Way to Success is “an eclectic weekly interview show focused on "How People and Organizations Tick." Our experts on subjects such as psychology, medicine, management and leadership, psychiatry and parenthood will bring their thoughtful and sometimes controversial opinions to the air.” Judy Nelson, an Executive Coach with 30 years experience as a CEO, say of the program, “Join me every week as I explore with my ordinary and extraordinary guests how they became leaders. To learn why you can't afford NOT to have a Coach, call me at 877.yesJudy.”
ABOUT RAYMOND E. FOSTER
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral studies in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.
Raymond has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and is currently a faculty advisor and chair of the Criminal Justice Program at the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
His first book, Police Technology is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide. He latest book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style has been adopted by several universities for course work in leadership; by several civil service organizations and required reading for promotion; and, has been well received in the wider market.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."
More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret)
909.599.7530
raymond@hitechcj.com
August 5, 2009 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press announced that the co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.) will be a guest on the internet-based radio program Leading the Way to Success with Executive Coach Judy Nelson.
Date: August 8, 2009
Time: 9:30 AM PACIFIC
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/CoachJudyNelson/2009/08/08/Raymond-E-Foster-author-Leadership-Texas-Hold-Em-Style
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Leading the Way to Success is “an eclectic weekly interview show focused on "How People and Organizations Tick." Our experts on subjects such as psychology, medicine, management and leadership, psychiatry and parenthood will bring their thoughtful and sometimes controversial opinions to the air.” Judy Nelson, an Executive Coach with 30 years experience as a CEO, say of the program, “Join me every week as I explore with my ordinary and extraordinary guests how they became leaders. To learn why you can't afford NOT to have a Coach, call me at 877.yesJudy.”
ABOUT RAYMOND E. FOSTER
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral studies in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.
Raymond has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and is currently a faculty advisor and chair of the Criminal Justice Program at the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
His first book, Police Technology is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide. He latest book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style has been adopted by several universities for course work in leadership; by several civil service organizations and required reading for promotion; and, has been well received in the wider market.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."
More than a book: A fun and entertaining journey through leadership that includes an interactive website to supplement knowledge gained from the book.
Proven and Tested: Not an academic approach to leadership, but rather a road-tested guide that has been developed through 50-years of author experience.
High Impact: Through the use of perspective, reflection, and knowledge, provides information that turns leadership potential into leadership practice.
Ease of Application: Theory is reinforced with real-life experience, which results in accessible and practical tools leaders can put to use immediately.
High Road Approach: Personal character and ethical beliefs are woven into each leadership approach, so leaders do the right thing for the right reasons.
Uses Game of Poker: Rather than a dry approach that is all fact and no flavor, the game of poker is used as a lens through which to view leadership concepts.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret)
909.599.7530
raymond@hitechcj.com
Female Soldiers Continue Footprint in Army Aviation
American Forces Press ServiceAug. 5, 2009 - Women have actively supported the U.S. military since the Revolutionary War. By providing medical care to wounded soldiers and support to their militia men, women introduced themselves as an asset to protecting the nation. Today, female soldiers are offered the same jobs as male soldiers, with the exception of combat-arms careers such as infantry, armory and artillery.
Women, however, continue to deploy in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom on the ground and in the air as truck drivers, military police, field medics and Army aviation aircrew members.
Amelia Earhart and other female aviators paved the way for women in the sky in the 1920s, but it wasn't until the 1970s that female pilots were considered for U.S. military aviation programs. But serving their country from the cockpit of fixed-wing or rotary-wing combat aircraft still was not an option for women.
In 1993, then-Defense Secretary Les Aspin opened combat presence from the aircraft cockpit to women, including female enlisted aircrew members.
In southern Afghanistan, women serve on aircrews that provide medical evacuation throughout the combat zone. Company C, 3rd Battalion, 82nd Aviation Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, includes men and women among its aviators and medical specialists.
"I can't think of a better job I'd rather be doing," said Army Chief Warrant Officer Monica Narhi, a medevac pilot. "What motivates me is the significance and direct purpose in my job every day; this is a great mission."
Narhi, a 10-year Army pilot, said she has wanted to be a medevac pilot since she was a girl. A former Army aviation officer and a veteran of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, Narhi retired her commission as a captain, but continued her military career. She returned to Army aviation as a warrant officer to continue pursuing her dream to be a pilot.
In the late 1980s, the Army responded to the prohibition of women being involved in combat roles -- such as directly engaging the enemy with crew-served weapons, which excluded female helicopter pilots from the combat zone -- by using helicopters for transportation and medical evacuation.
Army Capt. Jennie Richey, a medevac pilot, commands of the battalion's Company D. Her mission is to ensure the maintenance and operability of CH-47F Chinook helicopters. "I don't change the standards set for my soldiers or see them different from each other," Richey said. "It doesn't matter if they are male or female; they all work hard to accomplish their missions.
"I am who I am, and I won't change how I command because I'm a female," Richey continued. "And as a pilot and member of an aircrew, we see each other as just that -- a crew; there is no difference."
Army Sgt. Christine Chaney, a flight medic with Company C, served in the Army for more than five years. Before joining the company, she was an emergency room nurse in Germany.
"The team provides group support to each other while on missions," Chaney said. "It doesn't matter if it's a female medic or a male medic; what matters are patients receiving immediate care."
In the combat zone, medevac crews treat not only casualties of homemade bombs and gunshot wounds, but also servicemembers suffering from heat stroke or injured in accidents.
"The hardest part about being a flight medic is treating injured children," Chaney said. "My priority is treating the patient; their life is in our hands."
Chaney said she hopes to pursue her medical degree and serve in the Army as a physician's assistant or doctor.
Many women like Chaney have served in the military as medical specialists. Evacuation nurses have aided in the rescue of casualties for more than 60 years.
Army Lt. Elsie S. Ott, an air evacuation nurse in the 1940s, was the first woman to receive the Air Medal for her performance in support of the air evacuation mission. The Air Medal is awarded to crew members for their performance during an aviation mission in a hostile environment.
Along with flight medics and pilots, Army aviation also employs crew chiefs to assist in the maintenance and security of the aircraft. Army Spc. Nicole Hyde, a crew chief assigned to Company C, is responsible for helicopters' serviceability, making sure the aircraft is ready for launch when a medevac mission is called in.
"After I've made sure the aircraft is ready, ... communication calls, engines are operational and equipment is secure, my focus is to assist the pilots and flight medic on board," she said.
Women now make up 15 percent of the Army, and working side by side with their male counterparts, have expanded their footprint in the U.S. military.
(From an 82ND Combat Aviation Brigade news release.)
MILITARY CONTRACTS August 5, 2009
NAVY
Souza Construction, Inc.*, Farmersville, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1652); Bilbro Construction Co., Inc.*, San Diego, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1653); Allen Engineering Contractor, Inc.*, San Bernardino, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1654); K.O.O. Construction, Inc.*, West Sacramento, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1655); RMA Land Construction, Inc.*, Brea, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1656); I.E.-Pacific, Inc.*, San Diego, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1657); A&D GC Inc.*, Santee, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1658); and San Juan Construction, Inc.*, Montrose, Colo., (N62473-09-D-1659), are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract small business set-aside for new construction and renovation of general building construction at various locations within the NAVFAC Southwest area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for the design, new construction, renovation and repair for industrial, commercial type and institutional buildings, systems and infrastructure. The work may include civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and communication systems and will include supervision, equipment, materials, and labor, to provide complete and usable facilities. The maximum dollar value for all eight contracts combined is $750,000,000. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Work will be performed at various federal sites within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR including but not limited to Calif., (83 percent), Ariz., (12 percent), Nev., (2 percent), Utah, (1 percent), Colo., (1 percent), and N.M., (1 percent), and work is expected to be completed July 2014. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with 46 proposals received. These eight contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics, Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $65,200,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for installation of a hull patch, bridge access trunk, sail and port retractable bow plane, as well as perform mandatory corrective maintenance actions required for the repair and restoration of USS Hartford (SSN 768). Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., (90 percent) and Quonset, R.I., (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $31,950,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-4413).
McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $15,999,645 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-04-C-0014). This modification provides for the procurement of additional ancillary mission equipment for the F/A-18 E/F and E/A-18G aircraft. Work will be performed in El Segundo, Calif., (96 percent); and Irving, Calif., (4 percent), and is expected to be completed in March 2012. Contract funds in the amount of $3,502,299 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Basic Contracting Services, Inc.*, Artesia, N.M., is being awarded a maximum $15,297,613 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity services contract for armed security guard services including harbor patrol services for Naval Magazine Indian Island. The work to be performed provides for armed entry control point security, fixed post security, roving land patrols, and harbor patrols. Work will be performed at Port Hadlock, Wash., and is expected to be completed by September 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website,with 10 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-09-D-5000).
K2 Solutions, Inc.*, Southern Pines, N.C., is being awarded an $8,733,779 firm-fixed price contract for the purchase of 112 trained and certified Improvised Explosive Device Detector Dogs (IDD). This requirement also involves procuring and maintaining a pool of 247 IDDs; training for the selected IDDs; and five weeks of training of IDD handlers. The contract will also provide for kenneling of the IDDs, to include feeding and medical care of IDDs during the period of performance; team integration training for four weeks at a training venue designated by the United States Marine Corps, currently Twenty-nine Palms, Calif.; and contractor field support services to assist the USMC after deployment. This contract will include an option for the procurement of replacement IDDs, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $8,763,779. The work will be performed in Southern Pines, N.C., and Twenty-Nine Palms, Calif., and work is expected to be completed Aug. 4, 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $8,733,779 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via a request for proposals, with three proposals solicited and three offers received. The USMC, Regional Contracting Office, National Capitol Region, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M00264-09-C-0028).
Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Co., Woodland Hills, Calif., is being awarded an $8,004,225 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed fee contract for engineering and technical services in support of the Fiber Optic Conformal Acoustic Velocity Sensor (FOCAVES). Efforts will include engineering and technical support of the phase 7 development of the FOCAVES system. The purpose of phase 7 is to build a working model for testing, and create a TDM receiver for interrogation of the optical sensors. Work will be performed in Woodland Hills, Calif., and is expected to completed by August 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, R.I., is the contracting activity (N66604-09-D-0053).
Souza Construction, Inc.*, Farmersville, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1652); Bilbro Construction Co., Inc.*, San Diego, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1653); Allen Engineering Contractor, Inc.*, San Bernardino, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1654); K.O.O. Construction, Inc.*, West Sacramento, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1655); RMA Land Construction, Inc.*, Brea, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1656); I.E.-Pacific, Inc.*, San Diego, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1657); A&D GC Inc.*, Santee, Calif., (N62473-09-D-1658); and San Juan Construction, Inc.*, Montrose, Colo., (N62473-09-D-1659), are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract small business set-aside for new construction and renovation of general building construction at various locations within the NAVFAC Southwest area of responsibility. The work to be performed provides for the design, new construction, renovation and repair for industrial, commercial type and institutional buildings, systems and infrastructure. The work may include civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and communication systems and will include supervision, equipment, materials, and labor, to provide complete and usable facilities. The maximum dollar value for all eight contracts combined is $750,000,000. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Work will be performed at various federal sites within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR including but not limited to Calif., (83 percent), Ariz., (12 percent), Nev., (2 percent), Utah, (1 percent), Colo., (1 percent), and N.M., (1 percent), and work is expected to be completed July 2014. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with 46 proposals received. These eight contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics, Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $65,200,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for installation of a hull patch, bridge access trunk, sail and port retractable bow plane, as well as perform mandatory corrective maintenance actions required for the repair and restoration of USS Hartford (SSN 768). Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., (90 percent) and Quonset, R.I., (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $31,950,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-4413).
McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $15,999,645 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-04-C-0014). This modification provides for the procurement of additional ancillary mission equipment for the F/A-18 E/F and E/A-18G aircraft. Work will be performed in El Segundo, Calif., (96 percent); and Irving, Calif., (4 percent), and is expected to be completed in March 2012. Contract funds in the amount of $3,502,299 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Basic Contracting Services, Inc.*, Artesia, N.M., is being awarded a maximum $15,297,613 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity services contract for armed security guard services including harbor patrol services for Naval Magazine Indian Island. The work to be performed provides for armed entry control point security, fixed post security, roving land patrols, and harbor patrols. Work will be performed at Port Hadlock, Wash., and is expected to be completed by September 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website,with 10 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-09-D-5000).
K2 Solutions, Inc.*, Southern Pines, N.C., is being awarded an $8,733,779 firm-fixed price contract for the purchase of 112 trained and certified Improvised Explosive Device Detector Dogs (IDD). This requirement also involves procuring and maintaining a pool of 247 IDDs; training for the selected IDDs; and five weeks of training of IDD handlers. The contract will also provide for kenneling of the IDDs, to include feeding and medical care of IDDs during the period of performance; team integration training for four weeks at a training venue designated by the United States Marine Corps, currently Twenty-nine Palms, Calif.; and contractor field support services to assist the USMC after deployment. This contract will include an option for the procurement of replacement IDDs, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $8,763,779. The work will be performed in Southern Pines, N.C., and Twenty-Nine Palms, Calif., and work is expected to be completed Aug. 4, 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $8,733,779 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via a request for proposals, with three proposals solicited and three offers received. The USMC, Regional Contracting Office, National Capitol Region, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M00264-09-C-0028).
Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Co., Woodland Hills, Calif., is being awarded an $8,004,225 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed fee contract for engineering and technical services in support of the Fiber Optic Conformal Acoustic Velocity Sensor (FOCAVES). Efforts will include engineering and technical support of the phase 7 development of the FOCAVES system. The purpose of phase 7 is to build a working model for testing, and create a TDM receiver for interrogation of the optical sensors. Work will be performed in Woodland Hills, Calif., and is expected to completed by August 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, R.I., is the contracting activity (N66604-09-D-0053).
Obama: VA Outreach Aims at Seamless Transition
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 5, 2009 - The days of the Department of Veterans Affairs waiting passively for veterans leaving the military to come seeking benefits and services are over, President Barack Obama told military reporters yesterday. Today's VA is reaching out, while servicemembers are still in uniform, to make sure they know what their benefits are and what services are available to them, he said during a White House roundtable interview.
Obama called this "active outreach" an important first step in ensuring servicemembers don't "fall through the cracks" as they transition from the Defense Department to VA systems.
"We have been placing a lot more emphasis on outreach, because although there are hundreds of thousands of veterans who are using our services, we know that there are hundreds of thousands more who may not know that benefits are available," he said.
Obama said he wants to ensure that "every single veteran -- not just our active forces, but also the National Guard and reservists -- are aware of the benefits that are available to them."
"Guiding them through that process, we think, is extraordinarily important," he said.
That's particularly true in the cases of wounded warriors, he said, whose transitions are being eased by VA's additional claims adjusters and technological improvements to streamline the application process.
"What we're trying to do is just break down the hurdles that exist between veterans and the VA," he said.
Obama called the new joint virtual lifetime electronic record one of the longer-term answers to promoting a more seamless transition process. Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates proposed the measure to improve care and services to transitioning veterans by smoothing the flow of medical records between the two departments.
"When a member of the armed services separates from the military, he or she will no longer have to walk paperwork from a [military] duty station to a local VA health center," Obama explained as he announced the initiative in April.
The new electronic record, which includes administrative as well as medical records, will reduce lost hard-copy files and delays in getting benefits processed, the president said. It also provides a framework to ensure health-care providers have all the information they need to deliver high-quality health care, while reducing medical errors, officials noted.
Shinseki told reporters yesterday the new record represents a big step forward that will require a merger of the electronic records within the two departments.
Noting that he lived under the Defense Department's system for many years when he served in uniform, the retired Army general said he's "very proud" of the VA's electronic records system. "We have to get them to talk, or to come together," he said. "That's what this is about."
The full impact of an integrated system will take some time to realize, Shinseki said.
"Trying to do the seamless transition when a youngster takes off a uniform today and is inducted into the Veterans Department tomorrow -- nearly impossible," he said. "And so what we've agreed to do is create a system where a youngster takes the oath of office today, and while he or she is serving, we begin the process of creating an electronic record in [the Defense Department] that is mirrored in VA."
This will go a long way toward plugging any gaps that inadvertently occur during the transition process, he said.
"However long they serve -- whether it's two years or 10 years -- when they take the uniform off, a seamless transition has already occurred," Shinseki said. "They're a known quantity. We know where they've been. We know what injuries [they'd had], what operations they've been on."
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 5, 2009 - The days of the Department of Veterans Affairs waiting passively for veterans leaving the military to come seeking benefits and services are over, President Barack Obama told military reporters yesterday. Today's VA is reaching out, while servicemembers are still in uniform, to make sure they know what their benefits are and what services are available to them, he said during a White House roundtable interview.
Obama called this "active outreach" an important first step in ensuring servicemembers don't "fall through the cracks" as they transition from the Defense Department to VA systems.
"We have been placing a lot more emphasis on outreach, because although there are hundreds of thousands of veterans who are using our services, we know that there are hundreds of thousands more who may not know that benefits are available," he said.
Obama said he wants to ensure that "every single veteran -- not just our active forces, but also the National Guard and reservists -- are aware of the benefits that are available to them."
"Guiding them through that process, we think, is extraordinarily important," he said.
That's particularly true in the cases of wounded warriors, he said, whose transitions are being eased by VA's additional claims adjusters and technological improvements to streamline the application process.
"What we're trying to do is just break down the hurdles that exist between veterans and the VA," he said.
Obama called the new joint virtual lifetime electronic record one of the longer-term answers to promoting a more seamless transition process. Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates proposed the measure to improve care and services to transitioning veterans by smoothing the flow of medical records between the two departments.
"When a member of the armed services separates from the military, he or she will no longer have to walk paperwork from a [military] duty station to a local VA health center," Obama explained as he announced the initiative in April.
The new electronic record, which includes administrative as well as medical records, will reduce lost hard-copy files and delays in getting benefits processed, the president said. It also provides a framework to ensure health-care providers have all the information they need to deliver high-quality health care, while reducing medical errors, officials noted.
Shinseki told reporters yesterday the new record represents a big step forward that will require a merger of the electronic records within the two departments.
Noting that he lived under the Defense Department's system for many years when he served in uniform, the retired Army general said he's "very proud" of the VA's electronic records system. "We have to get them to talk, or to come together," he said. "That's what this is about."
The full impact of an integrated system will take some time to realize, Shinseki said.
"Trying to do the seamless transition when a youngster takes off a uniform today and is inducted into the Veterans Department tomorrow -- nearly impossible," he said. "And so what we've agreed to do is create a system where a youngster takes the oath of office today, and while he or she is serving, we begin the process of creating an electronic record in [the Defense Department] that is mirrored in VA."
This will go a long way toward plugging any gaps that inadvertently occur during the transition process, he said.
"However long they serve -- whether it's two years or 10 years -- when they take the uniform off, a seamless transition has already occurred," Shinseki said. "They're a known quantity. We know where they've been. We know what injuries [they'd had], what operations they've been on."
President, VA Chief Cite Post-traumatic Stress as Priority
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 5, 2009 - Citing the direct correlation between military deployments and post-traumatic stress disorder, President Barack Obama said he's hopeful that increasing the size of the force will help to reduce incidents of stress. Obama joined Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki yesterday to discuss a broad range of veterans issues, including his commitment to tackling the causes behind PTSD and providing resources to help those experiencing it.
"There is a direct connection between the problems of PTSD and the pace of military operations," Obama told military reporters during a roundtable interview at the White House.
"As we are phasing down our operations in Iraq, we're going to see fewer PTSD cases coming out of Iraq," he said. "As we're seeing increased velocity of operations in Afghanistan, that's going to put more strain on the military personnel who are located there."
Faced with that hard reality -- one he said he takes to heart as he deploys troops in the first place -- Obama said he wants to reduce the incidents of PTSD. And one of the best ways to do that, he said, is "to reduce the amount of time in theater without a break."
Obama noted steps he's taken to increase the size of the military, particularly the Army and Marine Corps, which have been most heavily stressed with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
He also gave Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates authority to advance the Army's growth to end its "stop-loss" policy more quickly. The unpopular policy keeps some soldiers in uniform beyond the terms of their enlistment contracts.
The president also approved Gates' recommendation to temporarily boost the Army's active force by 22,000 members, a move expected to begin making an impact in January.
"All those things are going to make a difference in reducing stress, because what you've seen is that the incidents of post-traumatic stress disorder increase with each deployment," the president said.
But Obama called that just the first step in addressing the issue. Identifying people with symptoms of PTSD and getting them help also are key to a comprehensive approach.
"Step No. 2 is making sure that we are doing the screening that's necessary so that problems don't fester, and eliminating the stigma that may have historically existed when somebody is showing symptoms of PTSD -- particularly if they're still in theater, or still on active duty," he said.
The military has been working hard to change that paradigm, he noted. "I think that you've seen steps both within all the armed forces to talk about these issues, encourage people to avail themselves of services while they're in theater, but also when they get home," he said.
The president recognized "much more aggressive, systemic screening" VA conducts for every veteran entering its system.
The third step in addressing PTSD is to provide mental health services to those who need them.
Obama said his fiscal 2010 budget, which includes the largest VA funding increase in 30 years, will help to confront PTSD and traumatic brain injuries in a "more robust way."
"Throwing money at the problem by itself is not enough," he conceded. But, he added, money does help by funding more counselors, mental health specialists and treatment facilities. "We're hiring mental health providers," Shinseki pointed out. "We're up to 18,000 in the VA today."
Shinseki also noted the success of VA's national suicide hotline, staffed by mental health professionals. In the year since it went operational, the hotline -- 1-800-273-TALK (8255) -- has received about 150,000 calls.
But the biggest measure of the hotline's effectiveness, Shinseki said, are the 3,200 "online interventions" in which mental health professionals were able to help stop suicides "in the process."
"Because you have a mental health professional recognizing some cues, with an electronic health record -- you have a name, you know a location -- you can begin to vector, whether it's police or local authorities, to help," Shinseki said.
Among those 3,200 interventions, one involved a suicide in process in Baghdad, he said. A mother who was online with her troubled son called the hotline. That sparked a chain of events that led to getting notification to the servicemember's unit commander, who stepped in to help.
More money will fund more research into PTSD to get a better understanding of its causes, Shinseki said. "We know a lot about PTSD, but we don't know enough," he said.
Why, for example, are two people who have had the same experience affected differently? "There's something here that we don't understand," Shinseki said. "Is it personal makeup, resilience, how kids were raised, or whatever? But unlocking that door, for both [the Defense Department] and VA, will be important because it will help us understand how we can teach resilience."
Even with more understanding and treatment options for PTSD, Shinseki acknowledged another challenge: getting people to acknowledge they need help in the first place.
Mandatory screenings will help, he said. In addition, VA is moving its mental health care into the primary care areas of its hospitals. "We're trying to attack that stigma of, 'I'm going to mental health,' as opposed to 'I'm going to the hospital,' where it's not so visible," Shinseki said.
Another challenge is getting veterans, particularly younger ones who think they can deal with the problem themselves, to reach out for help. "Some of that is having to break through ... the invincibility of youth, convincing them that they have an issue [and that] we can help," he said.
"We know if we get them into treatment, they get better," he said. "We also know [that] if we don't get them into treatment, it doesn't get better, and most often it becomes debilitating."
Shinseki pointed to 131,000 homeless veterans, many of whom began their downward spiral with undetected and untreated PTSD or other mental health problems.
As VA works with other agencies to address the homeless veteran problem, he said, it wants to resolve issues that can help the newest veterans from facing the same plight in the future.
Obama said he's seen a change in attitudes about PTSD since the Vietnam era. "And I think both [the Defense Department] and VA take the issue of PTSD very seriously," he said.
"I'm confident that we're moving in the right direction," he said. "We're putting resources behind it. We're putting time and energy behind it. I'm focused on it personally. But it's going to take some time."
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 5, 2009 - Citing the direct correlation between military deployments and post-traumatic stress disorder, President Barack Obama said he's hopeful that increasing the size of the force will help to reduce incidents of stress. Obama joined Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki yesterday to discuss a broad range of veterans issues, including his commitment to tackling the causes behind PTSD and providing resources to help those experiencing it.
"There is a direct connection between the problems of PTSD and the pace of military operations," Obama told military reporters during a roundtable interview at the White House.
"As we are phasing down our operations in Iraq, we're going to see fewer PTSD cases coming out of Iraq," he said. "As we're seeing increased velocity of operations in Afghanistan, that's going to put more strain on the military personnel who are located there."
Faced with that hard reality -- one he said he takes to heart as he deploys troops in the first place -- Obama said he wants to reduce the incidents of PTSD. And one of the best ways to do that, he said, is "to reduce the amount of time in theater without a break."
Obama noted steps he's taken to increase the size of the military, particularly the Army and Marine Corps, which have been most heavily stressed with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
He also gave Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates authority to advance the Army's growth to end its "stop-loss" policy more quickly. The unpopular policy keeps some soldiers in uniform beyond the terms of their enlistment contracts.
The president also approved Gates' recommendation to temporarily boost the Army's active force by 22,000 members, a move expected to begin making an impact in January.
"All those things are going to make a difference in reducing stress, because what you've seen is that the incidents of post-traumatic stress disorder increase with each deployment," the president said.
But Obama called that just the first step in addressing the issue. Identifying people with symptoms of PTSD and getting them help also are key to a comprehensive approach.
"Step No. 2 is making sure that we are doing the screening that's necessary so that problems don't fester, and eliminating the stigma that may have historically existed when somebody is showing symptoms of PTSD -- particularly if they're still in theater, or still on active duty," he said.
The military has been working hard to change that paradigm, he noted. "I think that you've seen steps both within all the armed forces to talk about these issues, encourage people to avail themselves of services while they're in theater, but also when they get home," he said.
The president recognized "much more aggressive, systemic screening" VA conducts for every veteran entering its system.
The third step in addressing PTSD is to provide mental health services to those who need them.
Obama said his fiscal 2010 budget, which includes the largest VA funding increase in 30 years, will help to confront PTSD and traumatic brain injuries in a "more robust way."
"Throwing money at the problem by itself is not enough," he conceded. But, he added, money does help by funding more counselors, mental health specialists and treatment facilities. "We're hiring mental health providers," Shinseki pointed out. "We're up to 18,000 in the VA today."
Shinseki also noted the success of VA's national suicide hotline, staffed by mental health professionals. In the year since it went operational, the hotline -- 1-800-273-TALK (8255) -- has received about 150,000 calls.
But the biggest measure of the hotline's effectiveness, Shinseki said, are the 3,200 "online interventions" in which mental health professionals were able to help stop suicides "in the process."
"Because you have a mental health professional recognizing some cues, with an electronic health record -- you have a name, you know a location -- you can begin to vector, whether it's police or local authorities, to help," Shinseki said.
Among those 3,200 interventions, one involved a suicide in process in Baghdad, he said. A mother who was online with her troubled son called the hotline. That sparked a chain of events that led to getting notification to the servicemember's unit commander, who stepped in to help.
More money will fund more research into PTSD to get a better understanding of its causes, Shinseki said. "We know a lot about PTSD, but we don't know enough," he said.
Why, for example, are two people who have had the same experience affected differently? "There's something here that we don't understand," Shinseki said. "Is it personal makeup, resilience, how kids were raised, or whatever? But unlocking that door, for both [the Defense Department] and VA, will be important because it will help us understand how we can teach resilience."
Even with more understanding and treatment options for PTSD, Shinseki acknowledged another challenge: getting people to acknowledge they need help in the first place.
Mandatory screenings will help, he said. In addition, VA is moving its mental health care into the primary care areas of its hospitals. "We're trying to attack that stigma of, 'I'm going to mental health,' as opposed to 'I'm going to the hospital,' where it's not so visible," Shinseki said.
Another challenge is getting veterans, particularly younger ones who think they can deal with the problem themselves, to reach out for help. "Some of that is having to break through ... the invincibility of youth, convincing them that they have an issue [and that] we can help," he said.
"We know if we get them into treatment, they get better," he said. "We also know [that] if we don't get them into treatment, it doesn't get better, and most often it becomes debilitating."
Shinseki pointed to 131,000 homeless veterans, many of whom began their downward spiral with undetected and untreated PTSD or other mental health problems.
As VA works with other agencies to address the homeless veteran problem, he said, it wants to resolve issues that can help the newest veterans from facing the same plight in the future.
Obama said he's seen a change in attitudes about PTSD since the Vietnam era. "And I think both [the Defense Department] and VA take the issue of PTSD very seriously," he said.
"I'm confident that we're moving in the right direction," he said. "We're putting resources behind it. We're putting time and energy behind it. I'm focused on it personally. But it's going to take some time."
Face of Defense: NCO Follows in Grandfather's Footsteps
By Thad MoyseowiczSpecial to American Forces Press Service
Aug. 5, 2009 - The Atomium monument is an iconic landmark of Brussels. Made in the shape of an iron crystal's unit cell, it was built as a centerpiece for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, and has remained standing long after the fair's closing. Army Staff Sgt. Jonathan James, installation provost sergeant for U.S Army Garrison Brussels, first became conscious of the Atomium as a child in Kelso, Wash.
"My grandfather was a career soldier," James said, "and he had this funny paperweight shaped like an atom. I once asked him what it was, and he explained to me that it was part of the Brussels World's Fair, and that he and grandma had seen it when they went to the fair in 1958 from Germany.
"I never dreamed that I'd someday not only see the Atomium," he said, "but that I'd live in Brussels, too."
James credits his grandfather with having inspired his interest in the Army. He enlisted following graduation from high school in 2004, and went through basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
He was drawn to the Military Police Corps after completing a high school law enforcement project with the Washington State Highway Patrol, he said, adding that he figured MP training would give him entry to future civilian employment in law enforcement.
James initially was assigned to the 92nd MP Company in Baumholder, Germany, where his grandfather was stationed, and deployed with his unit to Afghanistan for a year as a gunner. The experience, he said, was incredibly maturing. "I went to Afghanistan straight out of mom's house," he recalled, "and came out transformed."
The Afghanistan experience also cooled his interest in a civilian career.
"I found I really enjoyed the company of soldiers, the sense of mission and pride, the camaraderie," he said. "I especially enjoyed working as a team member."
After his return to Baumholder, James found he was up for orders. He also found himself increasingly involved with his high school sweetheart, Natalie.
"I proposed to Natalie in Paris," he said with a chuckle, "because I figured it would be hard for her to say no. She accepted, we were married, and my first sergeant, who knew I wanted some time to establish my family, talked me into volunteering for orders to Brussels."
James said the Brussels assignment has done everything he expected and more.
"Natalie and I had our first child here," he explained. "Owen is now 2, and we're now expecting our second child in January. We definitely are established as a family now."
Professionally, the assignment has seen James rocket in rank from specialist to staff sergeant. He has occupied every position available for an enlisted MP at the garrison, from patrolman to desk sergeant to installation provost sergeant.
"Sergeant James is, simply stated, a spectacular NCO," said his boss, Army Capt. Antonio Espinal, director of emergency services. "He's transformed what was, frankly, an underachieving MP station for the better in every measurable way. And he's done it through sound, hard-nosed leadership and attention to detail."
Army Sgt. Ryan Cody, the garrison desk sergeant, called James "the best NCO I've ever worked for in the Army."
"He sets very high standards, and we know we have to aim high to reach those standards," he said. "Most important, he really cares about each of us, both on the job and off duty. It's not show with him; he really cares."
James said he prefers to remain modest, even in the face of such high praise. "I find it extremely rewarding being able to positively affect my peers, to influence the lives of larger groups," he said, "but I don't like to talk about it."
James credits two people with his accomplishments: his wife and his drill instructor.
"I would not be where I am without my wife, Natalie," he said. "There were times when I was preparing for boards when she knew the material I was going to be boarded on better than I did. I'd come home tired, and she'd tell me we were going to start reviewing the material.
"She loves the Army," he added, "and has told me she wants to go back to school when we go back to the U.S. to study physical therapy -- so she can take care of wounded soldiers."
James said he continues to draw inspiration from his basic training drill instructor. "I'll never forget him," he said. "He really set me on the path to success in the Army."
The James family has orders to report to Fort Leonard Wood in October. James' request for drill instructor duty will bring him full circle to where he started his career. "This is something I really want to do," he said. "The circle keeps getting bigger. I'll be able to do for others what my drill instructor did for me."
Espinal said James will leave Brussels having made it a better place.
"Sergeant James lives the NCO core leadership values of 'Be, Know, Do,'" Espinal said. "I'm happy he's going to a position where he'll touch lots of soldiers with his example."
(Thad Moyseowicz works in the U.S. Army Garrison Brussels public affairs office.)
Obama: Health Care Reform Won't Impact VA, Tricare
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - In ongoing discussions about health-care reform, President Barack Obama offered assurance today to those receiving medical care through Tricare or the Department of Veterans Affairs: Your benefits are safe. Eligibility for health care under VA or Tricare "will not be affected by our efforts at broader health-care reform," Obama told military reporters at the White House today.
Obama said he also made that point clear after today's meeting with the American Legion's national commander, Dave Rehbein, and executive director, Peter Gaytan.
"I want to make sure that message gets out to our veterans," the president said. "I think it's very important to get the message out: If you are in the VA system and are happy with your care, great. We have no intention of changing your eligibility."
While a new, national program won't force anyone to change health-care systems, Obama said it could offer benefits or geographic convenience that might make some veterans elect to join it. A national program "will actually give them more choices, more flexibility," he said.
Obama cited problems in U.S. health-care delivery systems, which he said cost more than other countries' programs and too often deliver less.
The VA "has probably made more progress than most systems out there in increasing quality" during the past 25 years, and could help shed light on better ways of delivering health care, he said.
But the cost of delivering that care is high even at VA, and Tricare consumes a big piece of the Defense Department's budget, he said.
With the fiscal 2010 budget reflecting the largest VA funding increase in 30 years, Obama told American Legion leaders he is committed to ensuring that VA provides America's veterans the highest-quality health care possible.
Meanwhile, he told reporters VA will increase its outreach to more veterans to make sure they're aware of their medical benefits and other entitlements.
"Although there are hundreds of thousands of veterans who are using our services, we know there are hundreds of thousands more who may not know that benefits are available," he said.
"And we are working really hard to make sure that every single veteran – not just our active force, but also National Guard and reservists, are aware of the benefits that are available to them.
"Guiding them through that process, we think, is extraordinarily important."
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - In ongoing discussions about health-care reform, President Barack Obama offered assurance today to those receiving medical care through Tricare or the Department of Veterans Affairs: Your benefits are safe. Eligibility for health care under VA or Tricare "will not be affected by our efforts at broader health-care reform," Obama told military reporters at the White House today.
Obama said he also made that point clear after today's meeting with the American Legion's national commander, Dave Rehbein, and executive director, Peter Gaytan.
"I want to make sure that message gets out to our veterans," the president said. "I think it's very important to get the message out: If you are in the VA system and are happy with your care, great. We have no intention of changing your eligibility."
While a new, national program won't force anyone to change health-care systems, Obama said it could offer benefits or geographic convenience that might make some veterans elect to join it. A national program "will actually give them more choices, more flexibility," he said.
Obama cited problems in U.S. health-care delivery systems, which he said cost more than other countries' programs and too often deliver less.
The VA "has probably made more progress than most systems out there in increasing quality" during the past 25 years, and could help shed light on better ways of delivering health care, he said.
But the cost of delivering that care is high even at VA, and Tricare consumes a big piece of the Defense Department's budget, he said.
With the fiscal 2010 budget reflecting the largest VA funding increase in 30 years, Obama told American Legion leaders he is committed to ensuring that VA provides America's veterans the highest-quality health care possible.
Meanwhile, he told reporters VA will increase its outreach to more veterans to make sure they're aware of their medical benefits and other entitlements.
"Although there are hundreds of thousands of veterans who are using our services, we know there are hundreds of thousands more who may not know that benefits are available," he said.
"And we are working really hard to make sure that every single veteran – not just our active force, but also National Guard and reservists, are aware of the benefits that are available to them.
"Guiding them through that process, we think, is extraordinarily important."
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
New PTSD Program Answers Nee
LANDSTUHL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, Germany - Symptoms of combat stress and post-traumatic stress disorder include continual nightmares, avoidance behaviors, denial, grief, anger and fear.
Some Soldiers, battling these and other symptoms, can be treated successfully as an outpatient while assuming their normal duties. For others, however, returning to work and becoming their old selves again were challenges recognized by several mental health professionals across the European theater.
"We were looking at how we can best meet the needs of our clientele, and we were identifying that a lot of the Soldiers needed more than once-a-week outpatient, individual therapy and probably needed more than once- or twice-a-week group therapy," said Joseph Pehm, chief of Medical Social Work at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
The solution came in the creation of an intensive eight-week therapeutic Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Day Treatment Program called "evolution" that began in March 2009 at LRMC. During the eight-hour days, patients enrolled in the program participate in multiple disciplines and interests, including art therapy, yoga and meditation classes, substance abuse groups, anger and grief management, tobacco cessation, pain management and multiple PTSD evidence-based practice protocols.
"I am a great believer in the kitchen sink, meaning I throw everything, including the kitchen sink, and something will stick," said Dr. Daphne Brown, chief of the Division of Behavioral Health at LRMC. "And so we've come with all the evidence-based treatment for PTSD that we know about ... We've taken everything that we can think of that will be of use in redirecting symptoms for these folks and put it into an eight-week program."
Brown, Pehm and Sharon Stewart, a Red Cross volunteer who recently received a doctorate in psychology, said the program is designed from research into the effects of traumatic experience and mirrors successful PTSD programs at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as programs run by psychologists in the U.S.
"We are building on the groundbreaking work that some of our peers and colleagues have done and just expanding it out," said Brown.
During treatment, patients begin the day with a community meeting where they discuss how well they feel and any additional issues or concerns since their last meeting. The remainder of the day depends on the curriculum scheduled for that week.
The first few weeks focus on learning basic coping skills such as how to reduce anxiety and fight fear, as well as yoga and meditation for relaxation. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, an evidence-based practice for treating PTSD, is also conducted during the early phases of the treatment program.
"The concept behind EMDR is that, essentially, memories become fixed in one part of our brain and they maintain their power and control over our emotions as long as they are fixed there," said Brown. "And if we can activate a different part of the brain while we're experiencing that memory, we can help to remove some of that emotional valence from it. So we use physiological maneuvers to activate both sides of the brain."
The goal at the beginning of the PTSD program is to provide patients with a number of tools they can use to help them calm down when feeling overwhelmed, especially before more intense therapy begins in the latter weeks. Cognitive processing therapy is used throughout the program. EMDR and prolonged exposure therapy are also available on an individual basis at the Soldier's request. All three techniques are research-based treatments.
When life-changing events occur, Brown said perceptions about the world may change. For example, before Soldiers experience combat trauma they may think the world is safe. Following combat, a Soldier's perceptions may change - a majority of the world may now seem unsafe. Cognitive processing therapy attempts to re-address experiences and reshift a Soldier's perceptions.
Prolonged exposure therapy is behaviorally based and addresses a Soldier's fears, which are seen as reflex reactions to a stimulus. To decondition the reactions, a patient is continually exposed to the stimulus by retelling the story repeatedly, minus the negative outcome. Brown compared it to riding a roller coaster over and over again to overcome a fear of roller coasters.
"So they're getting EMDR, they're getting cognitive processing therapy, they're getting individual therapy, they're getting group therapy, they're getting education, anger management, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief and loss, yoga, meditation exercise, skill building -- a little bit of everything across the board," said Brown. "Not everything's going to resonate with everyone who comes through, but something's going to resonate for everyone who comes through."
In addition to the overall core curriculum, Brown and her staff have programs such as pain management, relationship enrichment and tobacco cessation to help individualize treatment.
"The core of the group and individual education is consistent for everyone," said Brown. "But we recognize that every patient is different, and we have to tailor-make it to give an individualized treatment plan. We don't keep people in pain management if they're not in pain. We don't give them tobacco cessation if they're not smoking. So we do try and tailor as much of it as we can."
Spirituality, relationship enrichment and gender-specific issues are also areas of focus.
"The program is holistic," said Pehm. "It looks at people from different spheres, not just the medical model, because everything is impacted when someone has combat stress or PTSD - not just the individual Soldier, but everybody who comes in contact with them."
The intensity, length and "kitchen sink" qualities are not the only aspects that make this program unique, said Brown. It is a joint military and civilian effort accomplished entirely by volunteers. The staff is as diverse as the therapy options, and includes chaplains, social workers, Red Cross volunteers, psychiatrists, a nurse practitioner, enlisted psychiatric technicians, and graduate students. Brown said having a sundry of personnel keeps the program fresh and the staff excited.
"The patients get perspectives from people from a number of different backgrounds," said Brown.
Thus far, the staff outnumbers the program's participants.
"By design we started out small, and we were able to establish a really good working relationship with the local Warrior Transition Unit people ... It's been a wonderful working relationship with them," said Pehm.
Evolution is currently on it second eight-week course, with five patients enrolled. The first class had four. The goal is to keep the class size small in order to benefit from the program's intensity. Thinking small also helps keep the impact large by successfully returning Soldiers to their units, while also expanding access outside the WTUs. However, Pehm said they would like to expand the program to include patients from throughout the European Command.
"Ideally, we'd like to max it at about 10 because it is so intensive," said Brown. "These are folks we hope to remediate and return to the Army to be functional members again. Also, if they go back to their communities and their providers or spouses see the changes that have come about, that will increase the willingness or desire of more people to be here."
Though few have completed this young program, signs of success have already started to surface.
"With the last group, the shift from 'I have to be here' to 'I'm so glad I came' was really phenomenal," said Pehm.
"One of them said that he didn't think he was getting anything out of the program," Brown said. "It was about week six until he saw himself react differently to a situation that came up, and watched himself do it differently using skills that he didn't know he learned. He went 'Wow,' maybe I am getting something out of this."
It is too early, and the numbers are too small, to generalize the early trends, but self-completed PTSD checklists showed a significant decrease in reported symptoms for three of the four patients in the first cohort. Additionally, anxiety and depression symptom measures decreased.
"The whole idea is that we know all the changes aren't going to take place here," said Brown. "But we hope we give them enough learning to send them in a different direction. My hope is that we can build a program to provide valid, effective treatment to folks who have put themselves in harm's way at the request of their country, and help them live happier and better lives."
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Southcom Embraces Two-Way Impact of Social Media
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Social media has become all the rage throughout the military as a growing number of senior leaders turn to blogs, Facebook pages, Twitter entries and other social networking venues to get word out about their activities and engage new audiences. Commands exploring the best way to get involved in social media might want to consider the experience of U.S. Southern Command, the first combatant command to embrace these new communication forms.
Sarah Nagelmann, who served as Southcom's strategic communications director, had a receptive audience when she first pitched the concept of a commander's blog last fall to Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis.
Nagelmann didn't envision a blog posted under Stavridis' name, but filled with other people's entries. She wanted the commander, who moved on last month to the top posts at U.S. European Command and Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, to do the writing.
"The commander has to own his or her own voice," Nagelmann told American Forces Press Service. "As soon as you delegate that communication platform, it loses its impact."
Readers are too savvy to confuse material written by a staffer, particularly a public affairs person, with the words of the commander, she said. The language becomes stilted. The leader's personality is lost, and with it, the authenticity of the message.
"And once you lose that authenticity, I think people are more hesitant to engage on that platform," Nagelmann said.
That misses the whole point of social media: generating a dialogue with audiences the commander might never have had the opportunity to interact with otherwise.
"Once you lose that authenticity, their incentive to participate goes down," Nagelmann said. "You have lost the utility of the platform."
Nagelmann can't imagine why a military command would elect not to engage in the increasingly popular social media. By some estimates, more than 60 million people maintain a blog. Meanwhile, the MySpace and Facebook social networking sites have quickly risen to become the most-visited U.S. Web sites.
"If we choose not to engage in this platform, we will be represented by others, and we lose the opportunity to represent ourselves," she said. "That cost is just too high to ignore. There is absolutely an opportunity cost in not engaging."
In fact, Nagelmann recommends that commanders compound the effectiveness of their social media outreach by empowering their people to represent the organization through their social networking efforts.
"If we can ensure everyone affiliated with an organization understands what we do, why we do it and why it matters, and give them the ability -- empower them -- to communicate that, then we have created a really strong capability, and one that will touch a lot more corners than relying on one voice alone," she said. "It can become a really powerful mechanism."
But Nagelmann, who accompanied Stavridis to Eucom and SHAPE as his strategic communications advisor, also recommends that commands formulate at least a basic plan before launching a social networking effort.
"We have to think deliberately about what we want out of these platforms before we just jump in willy-nilly," she said. "Using them the wrong way isn't advantageous because you're not generating the response or reaction you are looking to create."
Engagement, she emphasized, is what social media is all about. Unlike traditional media, social media opens the dialogue to a broader population, eliminating barriers so more people are able to offer ideas and share their expertise and experience.
"We are looking to provide information and to create dialogue," she said. "If we don't do that in a way that enables others to participate, if it is always one-way transmit, then I think that's a danger. We've lost the effectiveness."
Nagelmann said she's satisfied with the results of Southcom's initial foray into social media, but sees more opportunity yet to be tapped.
"What we have enabled is a way for others who do not know how to interact with Southcom to send us comments, questions, thoughts, reactions to any number of things," she said. "We have provided a mechanism that is accessible globally and allows others to find us and enter into conversation with us where, before, the barriers to entry were incredibly high."
Looking at the feedback Southcom received through its early social networking efforts, Nagelmann has one complaint: it's been too positive. She'd like to see more constructive criticism.
"We want feedback about where our strategies are working and where we can do better," she said. "Critical feedback is the point. We are giving people the opportunities to say, 'I understand what you are doing and I appreciate the perspective. Here is an alternative one.
"Once we get to that point, I think we will have a meaningful platform."
As more commands enter social networking, Nagelmann urges them to be willing to try new things and recognize that mistakes are an inevitable part of the process.
"We have to be open to experimenting and occasionally making mistakes and learning from them," she said.
She also reminds commands not to forget that social networking is just one of many tools for communicating their messages.
"A lot of us are jumping at 'bright and shiny objects' because this new media space is interesting and fun, it's exciting and changing," she said. "But in reality, it's simply another venue. It doesn't replace anything. It's an additional mechanism to transmit and receive information."
Social media isn't for everyone, and doesn't reach the entire audience, she said. "It's complementary to all those other mediums out there, just one more way to reach out, engage and initiate dialogue," she said.
"But if we choose not to participate, and cede our voice to others in this environment, that is going to do us no good," she said. "We are finally beginning to understand the power of this platform. And the uses are almost endless."
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Social media has become all the rage throughout the military as a growing number of senior leaders turn to blogs, Facebook pages, Twitter entries and other social networking venues to get word out about their activities and engage new audiences. Commands exploring the best way to get involved in social media might want to consider the experience of U.S. Southern Command, the first combatant command to embrace these new communication forms.
Sarah Nagelmann, who served as Southcom's strategic communications director, had a receptive audience when she first pitched the concept of a commander's blog last fall to Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis.
Nagelmann didn't envision a blog posted under Stavridis' name, but filled with other people's entries. She wanted the commander, who moved on last month to the top posts at U.S. European Command and Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, to do the writing.
"The commander has to own his or her own voice," Nagelmann told American Forces Press Service. "As soon as you delegate that communication platform, it loses its impact."
Readers are too savvy to confuse material written by a staffer, particularly a public affairs person, with the words of the commander, she said. The language becomes stilted. The leader's personality is lost, and with it, the authenticity of the message.
"And once you lose that authenticity, I think people are more hesitant to engage on that platform," Nagelmann said.
That misses the whole point of social media: generating a dialogue with audiences the commander might never have had the opportunity to interact with otherwise.
"Once you lose that authenticity, their incentive to participate goes down," Nagelmann said. "You have lost the utility of the platform."
Nagelmann can't imagine why a military command would elect not to engage in the increasingly popular social media. By some estimates, more than 60 million people maintain a blog. Meanwhile, the MySpace and Facebook social networking sites have quickly risen to become the most-visited U.S. Web sites.
"If we choose not to engage in this platform, we will be represented by others, and we lose the opportunity to represent ourselves," she said. "That cost is just too high to ignore. There is absolutely an opportunity cost in not engaging."
In fact, Nagelmann recommends that commanders compound the effectiveness of their social media outreach by empowering their people to represent the organization through their social networking efforts.
"If we can ensure everyone affiliated with an organization understands what we do, why we do it and why it matters, and give them the ability -- empower them -- to communicate that, then we have created a really strong capability, and one that will touch a lot more corners than relying on one voice alone," she said. "It can become a really powerful mechanism."
But Nagelmann, who accompanied Stavridis to Eucom and SHAPE as his strategic communications advisor, also recommends that commands formulate at least a basic plan before launching a social networking effort.
"We have to think deliberately about what we want out of these platforms before we just jump in willy-nilly," she said. "Using them the wrong way isn't advantageous because you're not generating the response or reaction you are looking to create."
Engagement, she emphasized, is what social media is all about. Unlike traditional media, social media opens the dialogue to a broader population, eliminating barriers so more people are able to offer ideas and share their expertise and experience.
"We are looking to provide information and to create dialogue," she said. "If we don't do that in a way that enables others to participate, if it is always one-way transmit, then I think that's a danger. We've lost the effectiveness."
Nagelmann said she's satisfied with the results of Southcom's initial foray into social media, but sees more opportunity yet to be tapped.
"What we have enabled is a way for others who do not know how to interact with Southcom to send us comments, questions, thoughts, reactions to any number of things," she said. "We have provided a mechanism that is accessible globally and allows others to find us and enter into conversation with us where, before, the barriers to entry were incredibly high."
Looking at the feedback Southcom received through its early social networking efforts, Nagelmann has one complaint: it's been too positive. She'd like to see more constructive criticism.
"We want feedback about where our strategies are working and where we can do better," she said. "Critical feedback is the point. We are giving people the opportunities to say, 'I understand what you are doing and I appreciate the perspective. Here is an alternative one.
"Once we get to that point, I think we will have a meaningful platform."
As more commands enter social networking, Nagelmann urges them to be willing to try new things and recognize that mistakes are an inevitable part of the process.
"We have to be open to experimenting and occasionally making mistakes and learning from them," she said.
She also reminds commands not to forget that social networking is just one of many tools for communicating their messages.
"A lot of us are jumping at 'bright and shiny objects' because this new media space is interesting and fun, it's exciting and changing," she said. "But in reality, it's simply another venue. It doesn't replace anything. It's an additional mechanism to transmit and receive information."
Social media isn't for everyone, and doesn't reach the entire audience, she said. "It's complementary to all those other mediums out there, just one more way to reach out, engage and initiate dialogue," she said.
"But if we choose not to participate, and cede our voice to others in this environment, that is going to do us no good," she said. "We are finally beginning to understand the power of this platform. And the uses are almost endless."
Face of Defense: Soldier to be First Female Head of Drill Sergeant School
By Crystal Lewis BrownSpecial to American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Army Command Sgt. Maj. Teresa King of the 369th Adjutant General Battalion has been selected the next commandant of the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School. When she assumes responsibility in September, the ceremony not only will be commemorating a new school leader, but also the school's first female commandant.
King, who learned of the selection in June, will replace Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Newsome as head of the school.
King enlisted in 1980, and, soon after, attended the same school she later would be slated to lead.
"I went to Drill Sergeant School before I went to my basic school for my [military occupational specialty]," the Clinton, N.C. native said. "The Drill Sergeant School has set the foundation for my training, so it's ironic that I'm going home."
Despite her rank as a specialist, she said she was expected to perform to the same level as the rest of the students. "They held me to the same standards that they held the [other] drill sergeants," she said.
Her graduation was held in the morning, she said, "and I was on the trail that afternoon."
King said it is important to note that a hard worker will shine, regardless of gender. "It really doesn't matter if you're male or female," she said. "If you...enforce standards, people will respect you."
King said it has not really set in that she will be the first woman to hold the school's top spot, but said she hopes the selection will encourage other women.
"Because I'm doing it ... that means another female command sergeant major can do it," she said. "I think it's going to set the bar higher for them, not just for drill sergeants, but for other female soldiers."
Even now, King said, being selected as commandant is a surprise. "It's sort of one of those moments of ... utter disbelief," she said.
King added that she is honored and humbled by the selection, and is grateful for the chance to take the reins.
"I feel like I'm chosen to lead a noncommissioned officer who is charged with a high degree of responsibility," she said. "I'm responsible for them as they lead, mentor, counsel and train America's finest.
"There's nothing else that can compare to that."
(Crystal Lewis Brown works in the Fort Jackson, S.C., public affairs office.)
MILITARY CONTRACTS August 4, 2009
NAVY
Arise Scaffolding and Equipment, Cleveland, Ohio is being awarded a $57,000,160 ceiling firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide scaffolding services for the Southwest Regional Maintenance Center's commercial industrial services code in support of Navy ships and other government vessels within a 50-mile radius of San Diego, Calif. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by July 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $3,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured as a full and open competition via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with four offers received. The Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N55236-09-D-0020).
3001, Inc. is being awarded an indefinite delivery indefinite quantity architect/ engineering contract with a maximum amount of $15,000,000 for geographic information systems, professional surveying and mapping services in the NAVFAC Atlantic area of responsibility. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps facilities and other government facilities predominantly in the eastern United States but also worldwide. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Federal Business Opportunities on a unrestricted basis with eleven (11) proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (contract number N62470-09-D-9013).
Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded $14,557,563 firm-fixed-price contract for a Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System (GEDMS) for the DDG51, a land-based GEDMS trainer, GEDMS hardware, and installation and checkout repair for the DDG51 GEDMS and GEDMS shipsets for the Royal Australian Navy. GEDMS is a ship-wide data transfer network for a ship's machinery, steering, navigation, combat, alarm and indicating, and damage control systems. It was designed to replace the miles of point-to-point cabling, signal converters, junction boxes, and switchboards associated with conventional ship's cabling. This contract contains three time and material options which, if exercised, will bring the total contract value to $14,872,563. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., and is expected to be completed by January 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with two proposals solicited and two offers received via the Federal Business Opportunities website. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division, Dahlgren, Va., is the contracting activity (N00178-09-C-2003).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
US Foodservice/Joseph Webb Division, Vista, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $51,877,500 firm-fixed price, prime vendor contract for full line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The proposal was originally Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third option year period. The date of performance completion is Aug. 17, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-08-D-3206).
Abaxis Inc., Union City, Calif.*, is being awarded a maximum $38,338,817 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for chemistry analyzer accessories and reagents. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 455 proposals solicited with 61 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Aug. 4, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM200-09-D-8207).
AIR FORCE
Colorado Springs Utilities, Colorado Springs, Colo., was awarded a $18,300,000 contract to provide connection charge; provide dependable renewable solar photovoltaic solar electrical energy, a 3MW solar farm. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 10th Contracting Squadron, United States Air Force Academy, Colo., is the contracting activity (FA700-09-F-0023) .
DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY
Hardwire, LLC, Pocomoke, Md., is being awarded a $6,370,392 other transaction for prototypes agreement for development and testing of armored vehicle hull bottoms. Work will be performed in Pocomoke City, Md., and is expected to be completed in September 2010. Funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on March 6, 2009 and more than 50 bids have been received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-9-0001).
Arise Scaffolding and Equipment, Cleveland, Ohio is being awarded a $57,000,160 ceiling firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide scaffolding services for the Southwest Regional Maintenance Center's commercial industrial services code in support of Navy ships and other government vessels within a 50-mile radius of San Diego, Calif. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by July 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $3,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured as a full and open competition via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with four offers received. The Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N55236-09-D-0020).
3001, Inc. is being awarded an indefinite delivery indefinite quantity architect/ engineering contract with a maximum amount of $15,000,000 for geographic information systems, professional surveying and mapping services in the NAVFAC Atlantic area of responsibility. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps facilities and other government facilities predominantly in the eastern United States but also worldwide. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Federal Business Opportunities on a unrestricted basis with eleven (11) proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (contract number N62470-09-D-9013).
Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded $14,557,563 firm-fixed-price contract for a Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System (GEDMS) for the DDG51, a land-based GEDMS trainer, GEDMS hardware, and installation and checkout repair for the DDG51 GEDMS and GEDMS shipsets for the Royal Australian Navy. GEDMS is a ship-wide data transfer network for a ship's machinery, steering, navigation, combat, alarm and indicating, and damage control systems. It was designed to replace the miles of point-to-point cabling, signal converters, junction boxes, and switchboards associated with conventional ship's cabling. This contract contains three time and material options which, if exercised, will bring the total contract value to $14,872,563. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., and is expected to be completed by January 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with two proposals solicited and two offers received via the Federal Business Opportunities website. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division, Dahlgren, Va., is the contracting activity (N00178-09-C-2003).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
US Foodservice/Joseph Webb Division, Vista, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $51,877,500 firm-fixed price, prime vendor contract for full line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The proposal was originally Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third option year period. The date of performance completion is Aug. 17, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-08-D-3206).
Abaxis Inc., Union City, Calif.*, is being awarded a maximum $38,338,817 fixed price with economic price adjustment, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for chemistry analyzer accessories and reagents. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 455 proposals solicited with 61 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Aug. 4, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM200-09-D-8207).
AIR FORCE
Colorado Springs Utilities, Colorado Springs, Colo., was awarded a $18,300,000 contract to provide connection charge; provide dependable renewable solar photovoltaic solar electrical energy, a 3MW solar farm. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 10th Contracting Squadron, United States Air Force Academy, Colo., is the contracting activity (FA700-09-F-0023) .
DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY
Hardwire, LLC, Pocomoke, Md., is being awarded a $6,370,392 other transaction for prototypes agreement for development and testing of armored vehicle hull bottoms. Work will be performed in Pocomoke City, Md., and is expected to be completed in September 2010. Funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on March 6, 2009 and more than 50 bids have been received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-9-0001).
Officials Urge Parents to Check Students' Immunization Records
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Department of Defense Education Activity officials are reminding parents to review their children's immunization records to ensure they're up to date by the first day of the school year. "Updating students' immunizations is an important part of back-to-school preparations," said Mary Patton, chief of the activities' Pupil Personnel Services branch. "We want all students to be ready to learn, and in order for them to be ready to learn, they need to be healthy.
"Requiring children to be immunized protects the rest of the school, and the staff and other families as well," she added.
All the usual childhood vaccinations are required including those used to protect against measles, mumps and rubella, polio and diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis.
The DoDEA Immunization Requirements Form, available on the activity's Web site, includes a list of required immunizations for students enrolled in an activity school.
"The one vaccine that we don't require right now ... is the HPV [to prevent] cervical cancer," Patton said. "The reason for that is pretty simple. It's not a communicable disease in schools."
If a school nurse notifies a principal that a student is not up to date on immunizations, the principal will send a letter to the student's parents informing them. Students won't be allowed to attend school until they have received the needed immunizations or an appointment is scheduled to receive them.
Military treatment facilities provide students with needed immunizations, and parents can coordinate with their child's physician to obtain the required vaccinations prior to the start of the school year. If required vaccines are temporarily unavailable, the military treatment facility will notify the school superintendent, and students will be allowed to attend school until the vaccine becomes available.
Students may attend school without being immunized due to religious beliefs.
"Parents can write a letter," Patton said. "They don't have to give us their religious beliefs, but [just say] that they do believe it is against their religion."
The minute there's a outbreak of anything, though, children who have not been immunized have to be sent home, she added. The same is true of those children who have a medical waiver for immunizations, Patton said.
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Department of Defense Education Activity officials are reminding parents to review their children's immunization records to ensure they're up to date by the first day of the school year. "Updating students' immunizations is an important part of back-to-school preparations," said Mary Patton, chief of the activities' Pupil Personnel Services branch. "We want all students to be ready to learn, and in order for them to be ready to learn, they need to be healthy.
"Requiring children to be immunized protects the rest of the school, and the staff and other families as well," she added.
All the usual childhood vaccinations are required including those used to protect against measles, mumps and rubella, polio and diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis.
The DoDEA Immunization Requirements Form, available on the activity's Web site, includes a list of required immunizations for students enrolled in an activity school.
"The one vaccine that we don't require right now ... is the HPV [to prevent] cervical cancer," Patton said. "The reason for that is pretty simple. It's not a communicable disease in schools."
If a school nurse notifies a principal that a student is not up to date on immunizations, the principal will send a letter to the student's parents informing them. Students won't be allowed to attend school until they have received the needed immunizations or an appointment is scheduled to receive them.
Military treatment facilities provide students with needed immunizations, and parents can coordinate with their child's physician to obtain the required vaccinations prior to the start of the school year. If required vaccines are temporarily unavailable, the military treatment facility will notify the school superintendent, and students will be allowed to attend school until the vaccine becomes available.
Students may attend school without being immunized due to religious beliefs.
"Parents can write a letter," Patton said. "They don't have to give us their religious beliefs, but [just say] that they do believe it is against their religion."
The minute there's a outbreak of anything, though, children who have not been immunized have to be sent home, she added. The same is true of those children who have a medical waiver for immunizations, Patton said.
Military Music
On August 6, 2009, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a two hour special exploring music performed, and in some instances created by, active duty military personnel.
Program Date: August 6, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: Military Music
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/07/Military-Music
About the Program
Music from the United States Marine Corps, United States Army, United States Navy, United States Air Force and United States Coast Guard will be presented along with historical information and commentary. Listeners are encouraged to call in and dedicate a song to current, former or retired member of the United States Military. Music will include:
Allons Allons!! US Army Chorus
Big Jim Blues US Army Jazz Ambassadors
American: A Musical Memorial US Army Band
Big Red One US Army Chorus
Red Bulls 34th Division Band & Chorus
Back Bay Boogie US Army Jazz Ambassadors
Washington Post March US Army Band
Yellow Ribbon US Army Chorus
Stars and Stripes Forever US Army Band
US Army Song US Army Chorus
Caisson Song US Army Chorus
Armed Forces Medley US Army Band
Semper Paratus US Coast Guard Band
St. Louis Blues US Coast Guard Band
Air Force Song US Air Force Band
A Change in Elevation US Air Force Band
Big Mama Louise US Air Force Band
Anchors Aweigh US Navy Band
US Navy Hymn US Navy Sea Chanters
If the Shoe Fits US Navy Commodores
Marine Corps Hymn US Marine Corps Band
Comes Autumn Time US Marine Corps Band
Bullets and Bayonets US Marine Corps Band
Adagio, and Fugue in C Major US Marine Corps Band
William Tell Overture US Marine Corps Band
Star Spangled Banner US Marine Corps Band
About American Heroes Radio
American Heroes Radio broadcasts from “The Watering Hole.” The Watering Hole is a location heroes 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, Public Safety 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/2009/08/08/Air-Force-Office-of-Special-Investigations
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: August 6, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: Military Music
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/07/Military-Music
About the Program
Music from the United States Marine Corps, United States Army, United States Navy, United States Air Force and United States Coast Guard will be presented along with historical information and commentary. Listeners are encouraged to call in and dedicate a song to current, former or retired member of the United States Military. Music will include:
Allons Allons!! US Army Chorus
Big Jim Blues US Army Jazz Ambassadors
American: A Musical Memorial US Army Band
Big Red One US Army Chorus
Red Bulls 34th Division Band & Chorus
Back Bay Boogie US Army Jazz Ambassadors
Washington Post March US Army Band
Yellow Ribbon US Army Chorus
Stars and Stripes Forever US Army Band
US Army Song US Army Chorus
Caisson Song US Army Chorus
Armed Forces Medley US Army Band
Semper Paratus US Coast Guard Band
St. Louis Blues US Coast Guard Band
Air Force Song US Air Force Band
A Change in Elevation US Air Force Band
Big Mama Louise US Air Force Band
Anchors Aweigh US Navy Band
US Navy Hymn US Navy Sea Chanters
If the Shoe Fits US Navy Commodores
Marine Corps Hymn US Marine Corps Band
Comes Autumn Time US Marine Corps Band
Bullets and Bayonets US Marine Corps Band
Adagio, and Fugue in C Major US Marine Corps Band
William Tell Overture US Marine Corps Band
Star Spangled Banner US Marine Corps Band
About American Heroes Radio
American Heroes Radio broadcasts from “The Watering Hole.” The Watering Hole is a location heroes 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, Public Safety 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/2009/08/08/Air-Force-Office-of-Special-Investigations
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Tricare Deputy Director Highlights New Programs
By Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg
Special to American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Tricare is enhancing its programs and services as part of an ongoing commitment to provide quality health care for military families, the new deputy director of Tricare Management Activity said. One of Tricare's key initiatives is to enhance the contact beneficiaries and their family members have with their primary health care provider, Navy Rear Adm. Christine S. Hunter told "DotMilDocs" listeners July 30 on Pentagon Web Radio.
"The 'medical home' concept is an exciting way of looking at an individual's relationship with their primary care provider," she said.
The medical home concept emphasizes four health care pillars: accessibility, continuity, coordination and comprehensiveness. Hunter said that it takes the doctor-patient relationship to a new level.
"It creates an enhanced relationship with that health care provider to ensure access, continuity and trust," Hunter said. "We need to offer care that is coordinated and comprehensive. In order to do that, we will emphasize preventive care and wellness, ensuring that people are in a partnership with their provider that allows them to get the preventive care that they need, and manage any chronic medical conditions that they have."
Hunter also addressed Tricare programs, and how beneficiaries can make the best use of their benefits by highlighting four main goals of the Tricare health plan: providing beneficiaries and their families with access to the best health care, ensuring satisfaction with their health care, managing health care costs responsibly, and last, but most important, she said, maintaining military readiness.
Part of military readiness, Hunter said, is maintaining family readiness. "We see family readiness as an important part of overall readiness. Secretary of the Navy [Ray] Mabus recently said 'they who wait also serve' and we have a strong commitment to them," Hunter said.
Tricare also is providing to its beneficiaries access to a Web-based Tricare Assistance Program that will provide online counseling.
The program launched Aug. 1, Hunter said, and is for active-duty servicemembers and their families, people in the Transitional Assistance Management Program, and selected reserve members who purchase Tricare Reserve Select and their eligible family members.
"The Tricare Assistance Program provides Web-based supportive counseling; you can dial in on your home webcam to talk to a counselor and get the assistance you need in the privacy and comfort of your own home," Hunter said.
The program enables visitors to obtain an unlimited number of sessions with the same counselor. "We think this will go a long way to making folks feel more comfortable and reducing stigma," she said.
Hunter also discussed electronic health records as a priority. One of the advantages of Tricare is the ability to keep track of the quality of health care beneficiaries receive through the use of electronic medical health records, she said.
She noted that Tricare is fully supportive of President Barack Obama's initiative to help manage health care in America through the use of electronic health records. These records provide long-term health information that can be used to predict trends.
"We think this really improves the quality of care because you don't have to waste valuable time during personal interactions repeating your past medical or family history," Hunter said.
(Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg is assigned to the Emerging Media Directorate of Defense Media Activity.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - Tricare is enhancing its programs and services as part of an ongoing commitment to provide quality health care for military families, the new deputy director of Tricare Management Activity said. One of Tricare's key initiatives is to enhance the contact beneficiaries and their family members have with their primary health care provider, Navy Rear Adm. Christine S. Hunter told "DotMilDocs" listeners July 30 on Pentagon Web Radio.
"The 'medical home' concept is an exciting way of looking at an individual's relationship with their primary care provider," she said.
The medical home concept emphasizes four health care pillars: accessibility, continuity, coordination and comprehensiveness. Hunter said that it takes the doctor-patient relationship to a new level.
"It creates an enhanced relationship with that health care provider to ensure access, continuity and trust," Hunter said. "We need to offer care that is coordinated and comprehensive. In order to do that, we will emphasize preventive care and wellness, ensuring that people are in a partnership with their provider that allows them to get the preventive care that they need, and manage any chronic medical conditions that they have."
Hunter also addressed Tricare programs, and how beneficiaries can make the best use of their benefits by highlighting four main goals of the Tricare health plan: providing beneficiaries and their families with access to the best health care, ensuring satisfaction with their health care, managing health care costs responsibly, and last, but most important, she said, maintaining military readiness.
Part of military readiness, Hunter said, is maintaining family readiness. "We see family readiness as an important part of overall readiness. Secretary of the Navy [Ray] Mabus recently said 'they who wait also serve' and we have a strong commitment to them," Hunter said.
Tricare also is providing to its beneficiaries access to a Web-based Tricare Assistance Program that will provide online counseling.
The program launched Aug. 1, Hunter said, and is for active-duty servicemembers and their families, people in the Transitional Assistance Management Program, and selected reserve members who purchase Tricare Reserve Select and their eligible family members.
"The Tricare Assistance Program provides Web-based supportive counseling; you can dial in on your home webcam to talk to a counselor and get the assistance you need in the privacy and comfort of your own home," Hunter said.
The program enables visitors to obtain an unlimited number of sessions with the same counselor. "We think this will go a long way to making folks feel more comfortable and reducing stigma," she said.
Hunter also discussed electronic health records as a priority. One of the advantages of Tricare is the ability to keep track of the quality of health care beneficiaries receive through the use of electronic medical health records, she said.
She noted that Tricare is fully supportive of President Barack Obama's initiative to help manage health care in America through the use of electronic health records. These records provide long-term health information that can be used to predict trends.
"We think this really improves the quality of care because you don't have to waste valuable time during personal interactions repeating your past medical or family history," Hunter said.
(Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg is assigned to the Emerging Media Directorate of Defense Media Activity.)
Pentagon Weighs Social Networking Benefits, Vulnerabilities
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - A Defense Department review is weighing the benefits of social networking and other Web 2.0 platforms against potential security vulnerabilities they create. In a memo issued last week, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III directed a study of social media sites like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube in hopes of establishing a policy by October, Pentagon Spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters today.
"We're addressing the challenges from a security standpoint, but also the impact and the value that they have to the department to be able to communicate in a 21st century environment," Whitman said.
Per his deputy's memo, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is slated to receive a report on the threats and benefits of Web 2.0 tools before the end of the month. Both Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have embraced the new technologies.
The Pentagon's chief information officer is taking the lead on the review, which was catalyzed by concerns raised at U.S. Strategic Command, Whitman said. Stratcom is responsible for overseeing the use of the "dot-mil" network.
In the meantime, there are no department-wide orders banning the use of social networking and other Web 2.0 applications, Whitman said, adding that standard local restrictions to such sites may occur due to bandwidth or security concerns.
"But as a department, we recognize the importance of taking a look at this issue because there are legitimate security concerns," he said.
In an interview with a blog site yesterday, Price Floyd, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, emphasized the importance of maintaining operational security, or Opsec, in an era of Web-based social networking.
"Opsec is paramount. We will have procedures in place to deal with that," Floyd told Wired's "Danger Room." "The [Defense Department] is, in that sense, no different than any big company in America. What we can't do is let security concerns trump doing business. We have to do business. ... Companies in the private sector that have policies like us don't dare shut down their Web sites. They have to sell their products and ideas -- and this is how it's done.
"Opsec needs to catch up with this stuff. This is the modern equivalent of sending a letter home from the front lines," he added. "Opsec needs to be considered on this stuff, but the more our troops do this stuff, the better off we are."
American Forces Press Service
Aug. 4, 2009 - A Defense Department review is weighing the benefits of social networking and other Web 2.0 platforms against potential security vulnerabilities they create. In a memo issued last week, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III directed a study of social media sites like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube in hopes of establishing a policy by October, Pentagon Spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters today.
"We're addressing the challenges from a security standpoint, but also the impact and the value that they have to the department to be able to communicate in a 21st century environment," Whitman said.
Per his deputy's memo, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is slated to receive a report on the threats and benefits of Web 2.0 tools before the end of the month. Both Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have embraced the new technologies.
The Pentagon's chief information officer is taking the lead on the review, which was catalyzed by concerns raised at U.S. Strategic Command, Whitman said. Stratcom is responsible for overseeing the use of the "dot-mil" network.
In the meantime, there are no department-wide orders banning the use of social networking and other Web 2.0 applications, Whitman said, adding that standard local restrictions to such sites may occur due to bandwidth or security concerns.
"But as a department, we recognize the importance of taking a look at this issue because there are legitimate security concerns," he said.
In an interview with a blog site yesterday, Price Floyd, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, emphasized the importance of maintaining operational security, or Opsec, in an era of Web-based social networking.
"Opsec is paramount. We will have procedures in place to deal with that," Floyd told Wired's "Danger Room." "The [Defense Department] is, in that sense, no different than any big company in America. What we can't do is let security concerns trump doing business. We have to do business. ... Companies in the private sector that have policies like us don't dare shut down their Web sites. They have to sell their products and ideas -- and this is how it's done.
"Opsec needs to catch up with this stuff. This is the modern equivalent of sending a letter home from the front lines," he added. "Opsec needs to be considered on this stuff, but the more our troops do this stuff, the better off we are."
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