February 22, 2010 - The task of airlifting in supplies and cargo by fixed-wing aircraft as part of Operation Unified Response - the U.S. military's mission supporting earthquake-ravaged Haiti - has largely been the jurisdiction of the U.S. Air Force, but a small group of Wisconsin Army Guard aviators are taking on that role as well.
Three members of the Wisconsin Joint Force Headquarters' Operational Support Airlift Command Detachment 52, a C-26E fixed-wing aircraft unit, left Feb. 9 for Homestead Joint Air Reserve Base in Florida to assume an operational airlift support mission for approximately one month. The small aircraft and crew began shuttling personnel and supplies between Florida and Haiti on Feb. 11. Two new pilots replaced the crew Feb. 22 and will continue the mission until early March.
That mission began at the end of January with the Army National Guard's Operational Support Airlift Agency Command (OSAACOM) initially conducting multiple flights into Haiti each day, said Army Maj. Darrell Rasor, the officer in charge of the task force. "Up until about Feb. 10, it was two flights a day, and it's been from Florida to Port au Prince daily, which is roughly a six-hour trip," Rasor said. "We've been taking passengers from Homestead ... to Port au Prince and then picking up people in Port au Prince and bringing them back."
According to Col. Jeffrey Paulson, director of aviation and safety for the Wisconsin National Guard, Detachment 52 is the only C-26 aircraft flying relief missions at present for the National Guard.
"It was decided to reduce the footprint from two aircraft to one," Paulson said.
The unit usually transports tools, cargo and personnel supporting rebuilding efforts in Haiti. However, because of the configuration of the aircraft they fly, they can also take on flying VIP missions as well.
Paulson said that refueling in Haiti is not guaranteed, so flight loads have to be planned to ensure enough fuel remains to depart. Sometimes the crew will refuel at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo, he added.
As the need for supplies and materiel in Haiti lessens after the initial push, many flights of larger aircraft - such as the C-130 Hercules and the C-17 Globemaster III - have dropped off and the needed airlift missions have been picked up by the Army aviators, Rasor said.
The air crews from OSAACOM that are flying the missions rotate on a month-to-month basis.
"There are 11 of these C-26 aircraft total within the Army Guard, and we're rotating among the states that operate these types of aircraft," Rasor said.
One of the biggest challenges facing the crews has been the short amount of time to plan missions.
"There's really short notice - it's kind of on-demand direct support," Rasor said. "The missions are going every day but you don't know what you're carrying until about two hours prior to take off."
But Rasor said that a short lead time isn't that unusual. "That's pretty inherent with the Army general support aviation mission anyway," he said.
Paulson said that the Detachment 52 crew has had to temper its expectations with the reality on the ground.
"The schedule changes constantly," he explained. "Sometimes the flights are cancelled, but they remain available seven days a week."
As of Feb. 19, the crew had shuttled 2,100 pounds of cargo and 21 passengers, including a U.S. senator on a return flight. Paulson said that the aircraft spends a fairly short amount of time in Haiti - no more than 60 minutes, enough time to refuel and reload - due to the high flight tempo at Port au Prince.
Another challenge, Paulson said, is the weather. Florida is also experiencing colder weather, with temperatures in the 40s. But Haiti currently has temperatures in the 90s with high humidity.
Despite all the hard work, Rasor welcomes the opportunity to support the mission.
"We're trying to help the leadership [respond to the Haiti support mission] and kind of get the word out that we have these aircraft and these capabilities," he said.
Sgt. 1st Class Jon Soucy of the National Guard Bureau contributed to this release.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Army Teams Leverage Diversity in Haiti
By Army Sgt. Tony Hawkins
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 22, 2010 – U.S. special operations servicemembers used their diverse backgrounds and skill sets to help a nongovernmental organization deliver and set up nearly 100 tents for Haitian earthquake victims living in a camp here. The distribution was a joint operation between the 82nd Airborne Division, a U.S. Army Special Operations Command civil affairs team, and an organization named Shelter Box, which provided the tents that can house three to six people. Also included with the tents were blankets, a wood-burning stove, food, and a basic water purification system.
"Shelter Box and our team were able to distribute tents to most of the families that live here," an Army civil affairs team leader said. "We're making sure the ones we do have go to the neediest families first."
The team leader, a captain, asked that he and his fellow soldiers not be identified by name for security reasons.
The captain explained that priority went to families with small children, the elderly, and any other families who didn't have some kind of waterproofing, such as a large plastic tarp or a tin roof.
An operation such as this, involving several dozen soldiers and more than 100 Haiti residents, was enhanced by the special skills and talents exhibited by special operations servicemembers, officials said. One sergeant, a member of the civil affairs information support team, is a native Creole speaker.
"Every time I speak to someone I hear, 'I knew you were one of us!' or 'Look, she even smiles like a Haitian,'" the sergeant said.
Noting that she was born in Haiti and moved to the United States at a young age, the sergeant said she is honored and humbled to return to her birthplace to help displaced people.
"It really hits a chord with me, because this could have been me or my family," she said. "I'm so fortunate for having grown up in the U.S., but I'm thankful I get to come back here to help in any way possible."
The abilities to speak the language and understand the local culture are invaluable skills that the sergeant said she gets plenty of opportunities to use during her current mission.
"I'm able to speak to people to provide them with information and instructions during the distributions," she said. "People see me and recognize me as a Haitian, so it gets their attention. They feel comfortable talking to me, so I can find out their needs and relay them to the commander."
Although she did provide some information to the members of the camp, most of the instructions were given to local people by a familiar face, the camp's chief, with the sergeant in the background assisting him. The distribution of the tents went off without incident and in an orderly fashion.
During the distribution, medical personnel from a Latin-American nongovernmental organization arrived to provide treatment to the camp's citizens. A civil affairs team staff sergeant who is a native of the Dominican Republic used his Spanish-language skills to coordinate operations between the organization and his team.
Haiti shares an island with the Dominican Republic, and the staff sergeant came back to Hispaniola with a working knowledge of the countries' cultures.
"This is my island," he said. "I know its history and understand the culture."
By providing better shelter to the families in the camp, the civil affairs teams helped to shift some basic priorities for people in the camps, so that residents can receive other aid by nongovernmental organizations in the future, such as treatment from the Latin-American doctors. The doctors have a long-term plan for the camp that includes daily visits to treat illnesses or injuries while other organizations regularly supply the camp with food and clean water.
After several hours, the distribution was completed without complications. As the tents were distributed, and after a quick lesson from a few U.S. soldiers, Haitians began setting up the shelters on their own.
The delivery of improved shelters allows for a smooth transition of aid distribution for people living in the camp, which is now very close to being turned over to nongovernmental organizations for continued humanitarian assistance, officials said.
(Army Sgt. Tony Hawkins serves in the Joint Forces Special Operations Component Command public affairs office.)
MILITARY CONTRACTS February 22, 2010
AIR FORCE
Northrop Grumman Defense Mission Systems, Inc., San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $77,915,492 contract which will provide the maintenance and support of the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node system in support of overseas contingency operations through fiscal year 2010. At this time, $71,181,700 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/PK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8726-09-C-0010).
Boeing Co., Wichita, Kan., was awarded a $35,403,359 contract which will provide continuing contractor logistics support for the VC-25A aircraft. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker Air Force Base, Nev., is the contracting activity (FA8106-09-C-0005).
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., was awarded a $9,267,712 contract which will provide for the design, development, testing and evaluation of research and development prototype capability that improves mission effectiveness through the use of automated analysis for real time situational awareness and assessment. At this time, $148,455 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKE, Rome, N.Y., is the contracting activity (FA8750-10-C-0040).
NAVY
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc., Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded $5,574,000 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62478-09-D-4015) for repair of wharf S-20 at Naval Station Pearl Harbor. The work to be performed provides for selective removal work; concrete rehabilitation; marine concrete; refurbish marine hardware; concrete fender piles; fender system; hydro-pneumatic floating fenders; metal fabrications; coating of waterfront steel structures; pavement markings; oil spill containment booms; low pressure compressed air; water distribution; sanitary sewer; exterior salt water distribution system; electrical work; and incidental related work. Work will be performed in Oahu, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by September 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity.
Government Contracting Resources, Inc.*, Pinehurst, N.C., is being awarded a maximum $15,152,401 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity base operating support services contract at Naval Support Activity Panama City. The work to be performed provides for facility management services; facilities investment services consisting of operation, maintenance, repair, minor construction and alteration services for buildings, structures and facility systems, water treatment services, backflow preventer maintenance, locksmith services, re-lamping services, roof inspections, fire protection, etc.; pest control; grounds maintenance; street sweeping services; and environmental services consisting of completing samplings and inspections. Work will be performed in Panama City, Fla., and is expected to be completed September 2014. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online Web site, with three offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (N69450-10-D-0761).
Northrop Grumman Defense Mission Systems, Inc., San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $77,915,492 contract which will provide the maintenance and support of the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node system in support of overseas contingency operations through fiscal year 2010. At this time, $71,181,700 has been obligated. 653 ELSG/PK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8726-09-C-0010).
Boeing Co., Wichita, Kan., was awarded a $35,403,359 contract which will provide continuing contractor logistics support for the VC-25A aircraft. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker Air Force Base, Nev., is the contracting activity (FA8106-09-C-0005).
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., was awarded a $9,267,712 contract which will provide for the design, development, testing and evaluation of research and development prototype capability that improves mission effectiveness through the use of automated analysis for real time situational awareness and assessment. At this time, $148,455 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKE, Rome, N.Y., is the contracting activity (FA8750-10-C-0040).
NAVY
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc., Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded $5,574,000 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62478-09-D-4015) for repair of wharf S-20 at Naval Station Pearl Harbor. The work to be performed provides for selective removal work; concrete rehabilitation; marine concrete; refurbish marine hardware; concrete fender piles; fender system; hydro-pneumatic floating fenders; metal fabrications; coating of waterfront steel structures; pavement markings; oil spill containment booms; low pressure compressed air; water distribution; sanitary sewer; exterior salt water distribution system; electrical work; and incidental related work. Work will be performed in Oahu, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by September 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity.
Government Contracting Resources, Inc.*, Pinehurst, N.C., is being awarded a maximum $15,152,401 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity base operating support services contract at Naval Support Activity Panama City. The work to be performed provides for facility management services; facilities investment services consisting of operation, maintenance, repair, minor construction and alteration services for buildings, structures and facility systems, water treatment services, backflow preventer maintenance, locksmith services, re-lamping services, roof inspections, fire protection, etc.; pest control; grounds maintenance; street sweeping services; and environmental services consisting of completing samplings and inspections. Work will be performed in Panama City, Fla., and is expected to be completed September 2014. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online Web site, with three offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (N69450-10-D-0761).
Gates Picks Intelligence Official for New Post
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 22, 2010 - Letitia Long, deputy director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, will serve as the next director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced today.
Long will assume the NGA leadership later this year, replacing Navy Vice Adm. Robert Murrett who is serving his fourth year at the agency.
Gates cited Long's unique qualifications for the new post, including more than 30 years of engineering and intelligence experience. She served as deputy undersecretary of defense for intelligence, deputy director of naval intelligence, and as coordinator of intelligence community activities for the director of central intelligence, he noted.
Long will become the first woman to lead a major intelligence agency, Gates noted.
Murrett will remain at the NGA helm for several months to ensure a smooth transition, particularly in light of the agency's vital wartime mission and its planned move to Fort Belvoir, Va.
Gates praised Murrett's outstanding performance, service and achievements at the agency, nothing that he had extended him to serve an additional year at NGA.
The secretary recognized his affinity for NGA, an agency he had a role in creating when he was director of central intelligence. Decisions he made led to the creation of the national Imagery and Mapping Agency in 1996, which later became the NGA.
The NGA structure combined CIA and Defense Department elements to provide "a more centralized focus on this critical intelligence discipline," Gates said. NGA develops imagery and map-based intelligence solutions for U.S. national defense, homeland security and safety of navigation.
With headquarters in Bethesda, Md., NGA has major facilities in the Washington, Northern Virginia and St. Louis areas. It also provides global support to its intelligence community partners through NGA representatives stationed around the world.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 22, 2010 - Letitia Long, deputy director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, will serve as the next director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced today.
Long will assume the NGA leadership later this year, replacing Navy Vice Adm. Robert Murrett who is serving his fourth year at the agency.
Gates cited Long's unique qualifications for the new post, including more than 30 years of engineering and intelligence experience. She served as deputy undersecretary of defense for intelligence, deputy director of naval intelligence, and as coordinator of intelligence community activities for the director of central intelligence, he noted.
Long will become the first woman to lead a major intelligence agency, Gates noted.
Murrett will remain at the NGA helm for several months to ensure a smooth transition, particularly in light of the agency's vital wartime mission and its planned move to Fort Belvoir, Va.
Gates praised Murrett's outstanding performance, service and achievements at the agency, nothing that he had extended him to serve an additional year at NGA.
The secretary recognized his affinity for NGA, an agency he had a role in creating when he was director of central intelligence. Decisions he made led to the creation of the national Imagery and Mapping Agency in 1996, which later became the NGA.
The NGA structure combined CIA and Defense Department elements to provide "a more centralized focus on this critical intelligence discipline," Gates said. NGA develops imagery and map-based intelligence solutions for U.S. national defense, homeland security and safety of navigation.
With headquarters in Bethesda, Md., NGA has major facilities in the Washington, Northern Virginia and St. Louis areas. It also provides global support to its intelligence community partners through NGA representatives stationed around the world.
Iran Concerns Middle Eastern Neighbors
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 22, 2010 - Just back from a trip to the Middle East, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff today cited widespread concern about Iran's nuclear program, but emphasized the importance of diplomatic and economic pressure, rather than military action, to stem it.
"Let me be clear: We owe the secretary [of defense] and the president a range of options for this threat. We owe the American people our readiness," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said. "But as I've said many times, I worry a lot about the unintended consequences of any sort of military action."
For now, Mullen said, the "diplomatic and economic levers of international power" are the appropriate responses to Iran's actions in defiance of international law and the international community.
"Indeed, I would hope they are always and consistently pulled," he said. "No strike, however effective, will be, in and of itself, decisive."
Mullen cited concern about Iran as an overarching theme during his recent visit to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. All share the U.S. belief that Iran's nuclear program is headed on a path to achieve weaponization – a pursuit Mullen said further destabilizes the region.
"Like us, it isn't just a nuclear-capable Iranian military our friends worry about,' he said. "It's an Iran with hegemonic ambitions and a desire to dominate its neighbors. This outcome drives many of the national security decisions our partners there are making, and I believe we must be mindful of that as we look to the future, post-Iraq and post-Afghanistan."
Throughout his visit, Mullen said, he was encouraged that despite varying perspectives, each country shared a common goal of stability and security for the region. The chairman said he also was struck that U.S. military relationships in the region continue to strengthen.
"Our partners want to engage," he said. "They want to exercise and operate with us, and they want to pursue new and innovative ways to tackle common challenges there and around the world."
He cited the Egyptians' pride in the recent Bright Star exercise, with a goal of building on it in the future. Meanwhile, the Israelis are reaching out beyond the immediate region to the wider world to contribute unique humanitarian skills and capabilities. Mullen noted the Israeli military's medical contributions on the ground in Haiti.
The Jordanians continue to contribute to United Nations peacekeeping missions around the world, and have provided medical support in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mullen said he was impressed by a new special operations training center he toured, and its potential for preparing modern militaries for counterterrorism operations.
While in Saudi Arabia, Mullen learned of the valuable lessons the Saudis have learned working with the Yemeni government to deal with rebel leader Yahia Badreddin al-Houti and his followers.
And in United Arab Emirates, Mullen toured a new advanced training center that he said "provides virtually unimpeded training opportunities" to regional air forces while improving real-world tactical air coordination.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 22, 2010 - Just back from a trip to the Middle East, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff today cited widespread concern about Iran's nuclear program, but emphasized the importance of diplomatic and economic pressure, rather than military action, to stem it.
"Let me be clear: We owe the secretary [of defense] and the president a range of options for this threat. We owe the American people our readiness," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said. "But as I've said many times, I worry a lot about the unintended consequences of any sort of military action."
For now, Mullen said, the "diplomatic and economic levers of international power" are the appropriate responses to Iran's actions in defiance of international law and the international community.
"Indeed, I would hope they are always and consistently pulled," he said. "No strike, however effective, will be, in and of itself, decisive."
Mullen cited concern about Iran as an overarching theme during his recent visit to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. All share the U.S. belief that Iran's nuclear program is headed on a path to achieve weaponization – a pursuit Mullen said further destabilizes the region.
"Like us, it isn't just a nuclear-capable Iranian military our friends worry about,' he said. "It's an Iran with hegemonic ambitions and a desire to dominate its neighbors. This outcome drives many of the national security decisions our partners there are making, and I believe we must be mindful of that as we look to the future, post-Iraq and post-Afghanistan."
Throughout his visit, Mullen said, he was encouraged that despite varying perspectives, each country shared a common goal of stability and security for the region. The chairman said he also was struck that U.S. military relationships in the region continue to strengthen.
"Our partners want to engage," he said. "They want to exercise and operate with us, and they want to pursue new and innovative ways to tackle common challenges there and around the world."
He cited the Egyptians' pride in the recent Bright Star exercise, with a goal of building on it in the future. Meanwhile, the Israelis are reaching out beyond the immediate region to the wider world to contribute unique humanitarian skills and capabilities. Mullen noted the Israeli military's medical contributions on the ground in Haiti.
The Jordanians continue to contribute to United Nations peacekeeping missions around the world, and have provided medical support in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mullen said he was impressed by a new special operations training center he toured, and its potential for preparing modern militaries for counterterrorism operations.
While in Saudi Arabia, Mullen learned of the valuable lessons the Saudis have learned working with the Yemeni government to deal with rebel leader Yahia Badreddin al-Houti and his followers.
And in United Arab Emirates, Mullen toured a new advanced training center that he said "provides virtually unimpeded training opportunities" to regional air forces while improving real-world tactical air coordination.
Minnesota Guard trains Norwegian youths
Minnesota National Guard
(2/17/10) -- A group of 60 Norwegian Home Guard youth, who arrived here on Feb. 12, enjoyed a week of intense Army training and finished off with a weekend of sightseeing and shopping in Minneapolis. They came to Minnesota with great expectations. For them to come here is a “big deal,” said Marthe Brendefur, one of the students. “Everyone hears great things about this in Norway.”
While they are here, they build a great sense of esprit de corps in their platoons and achievements. Values, such as honor, duty, and camaraderie, are reinforced through their daily activities and competitions.
Many of the youth build such strong bonds with the Minnesota cadre they meet that they later send messages and gifts back with current participants to be given to their old cadre leaders.
They compete with other platoons daily to earn the right as the “hooah” platoon. The winner of the coveted “hooah” battle streamer attaches it to their guidon, proudly displaying their achievements for the day.
Whenever a platoon wins the banner, their mascot, which is a teddy bear dressed in military fatigues, receives a promotion in rank. The goal is to get the mascot to general officer.
Of all of the activities they have participated in, among the most popular and widely anticipated was the ride on the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, qualifying with the M16 and M4 rifles and shopping.
“The best part of this exchange is meeting new people and seeing the differences between our cultures,” said Jonas Salthammer, a Norwegian Home Guard member.
In Norway, all youth are required to serve as a conscript for one year after high school. One such youth is Anders Ofstaas, nicknamed “Highspeed,” because of his gung ho attitude and desire to succeed. He has decided to join the Norwegian army and become a paratrooper.
These teenagers are highly trained, disciplined and motivated, Guard officials said. This becomes evident when they are seen on the range or in the field.
“They are very hard core, and very motivated. When you see that kind of motivation, esprit de corps and can do attitude it is absolutely awesome,” said Staff Sgt. John Hugh, a military police officer and platoon sergeant for the white platoon. “It has been a pleasure training them … I couldn’t have asked for a better group of young people to train in my life.”
The 65th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima
By Petty Officer William Selby
February 22, 2010 - As our crew drove down Interstate 95 South toward the National Museum for the Marine Corps for the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, I tried to figure out just how to ask someone to recount what has to be one of their most horrific memories.
We arrived at the museum about 45 minutes before the ceremony and my nerves were shaky at best. I’ve photographed several high profile officials as well as athletes but these men had my palms sweaty and my tongue twisted. They have lived to tell about a war and battle that I’ve only read about in history books as the worst war of the 20th century. I can’t think of words that would describe the level of respect that I have for these veterans.
After I composed myself, I scanned the room and saw many emotions and expressions of pride. These veterans weren’t afraid to cry; they seemed proud, as if to say, “I’ve been through hell, but I’m a Marine and I survived.”
Charles Smith was the first Marine veteran I interviewed. He gave a very firm handshake, smiled and introduced himself in a very low voice. I asked him to explain what the ceremony means to him. About five seconds into his response, Charles began to get emotional, which was a recurring theme among these brave men. Charles explained that recalling friends who lost their lives at Iwo Jima gets him emotional every time he thinks about it.
I thought I was finished with my interviews. But while I was looking at battle artifacts in the museum I ran into another retired Marine. “Hello there,” said retired Marine John J. Fuller or “Jack” as he asked me to call him.
I asked why he wasn’t out enjoying the ceremony. Bingo! Jack spent a good 10 minutes recounting his dramatic experience at Iwo Jima and more. Jack served in B Company, 1st Battalion, 21st Regiment, 3rd Marines. His company started with 250 men and by the end of the battle, only eight of them had survived. All the officers in his company had been killed, so Jack led them, and he continued to do so after the battle. Jack served in the military for 33 years and retired as a colonel in the Army National Guard.
The honor and sacrifice of Col. Fuller and all the men that I talked to today has left me in awe and I thank them for their service.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009
To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.
Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009 - Provides for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program for individuals pursuing education programs offered through distance learning. Includes in the definition of "active duty" for purposes of Program eligibility for members of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard full-time duty, including duty in support of any homeland security operation, natural disaster related operation, counter-narcotic operation, or border security operation, and duty in the Active Guard Reserve.
More Information
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-3467
Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009 - Provides for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program for individuals pursuing education programs offered through distance learning. Includes in the definition of "active duty" for purposes of Program eligibility for members of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard full-time duty, including duty in support of any homeland security operation, natural disaster related operation, counter-narcotic operation, or border security operation, and duty in the Active Guard Reserve.
More Information
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-3467
Navy Historian: Diversity is Strength and Strategic Imperative for Military
February 21, 2010 - In 1944, Harriet Ida Pickens and Frances Wills became the first female African-American U.S. Navy officers. Photo: US Navy. African-Americans have a long legacy in the military that began with the Revolutionary War and has continued to this day. To highlight this legacy, the Naval History and Heritage Command is working on a project documenting the history of diversity in the Navy from 1775 to the present through a variety of products including oral histories, narratives, chronology, photographs and a book.
The diversity project covers not only African-Americans but also women, Hispanics, Native Americans and Asians. It also looks at religious diversity as well.
“African-Americans have always desired to support the nation in hopes that a better society would emerge for them,” said Regina Akers, a historian at the command and an expert on African-American history, during a Feb. 17 interview on the Pentagon Channel podcast “Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military.”
Diversity is both a strength and a strategic imperative for the Navy and its mission, Akers said, and the project is aligned with that to tell the story of how people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds came to serve in the U.S. Navy and how their roles have changed over time.
“Many times, I’ve observed that young Americans will select a hero who is an athlete or business person and they don’t consider the outstanding men and women that served in the military,” she said. “There is much to learn from their experiences.”
For example, she said, Navy Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. was the first African-American to be promoted to admiral and to command a war ship. During his time in the military from the 1940s to the 1980s, he faced many challenges. Early in his career — when his duties were not equal to his qualifications — he did not let that deter him, Akers said, believing every job was an opportunity to learn.
Gravely used his extra time to take correspondence courses, and when the opportunity for a better assignment arose, his test results, performance evaluations and experience made him one of the most qualified applicants.
Gravely’s formula for success was “education plus motivation plus preservation,” Akers said, and these and other factors helped him excel in his Navy career.
The oral history portion of the project helps to bring life to the subject matter, Akers said. “Oral history is critical,” she said. A written report, she explained, usually tells what happened. But an oral history explains how it happened and provides perspective.
Society is moving away from paper-based communication, Akers noted, so this historical research is important for the future.
“In the past, letters and other correspondence were able to capture history,” she said. “With technology today, one writes e-mails that are likely to be deleted. The research needs to continue so that we can understand what blacks and other minorities have done and are doing in uniform.”
One of the biggest challenges Akers said she has experienced is that many veterans think they don’t have a story worth telling.
“Some don’t understand the significance of their experiences, and you have to help them appreciate them and why someone would be interested,” she said. But once they do participate, she added, many find it to be cathartic.
“It can bring healing and peace to a part of life that was unsettled for them, she said, “and they are honored that their history will be a part of the government’s official archives.”
“Heroic,” “determined” and “sacrificial” are three words that Akers said describe the legacy of African-Americans in the armed forces. More information and accounts of the past, she said, will add to the body of knowledge.
“Today’s military is much more diverse than it has ever been,” Akers said. “But it doesn’t mean that racial equality and gender equality has necessarily been achieved. All the missing pages relating to minorities in the history of the Navy and of the United States have not been filled, so the study needs to continue so we can learn more and better understand their experiences.”
Leadership
Editor's Note: One of the authors is a former servicemember.
According to a recent reader of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, “I want to weigh in on this book written by Raymond Foster and his cohort Andrew Harvey. I returned to school last year after 30 years of working and raising my family. In the process I have bought a plethora of books in the last year or so. I bought this book as I studied leadership from a an academic point view as well as using it in my profession. I have enjoyed a great career in law enforcement and in recent years I find myself in positions of leadership, both at work and within our police union. With the advent of the current economic crash leadership skills are in huge demand. I can't believe I waited to read this book until now. I needed to read this book years ago as I found myself leading people through these times.
But hey, better late than never! The authors of this book are incredibly educated and insightful in their perceptions and philosophies on leadership. They are not writing from theory, they are writing from experience, adding to the credibility factor of this book! The poker analogies used in this book are awesome and very to the point. They take the topic of leadership and deliver their thoughts in a down to earth fashion that anyone can comprehend and apply. This book is so easy to read but yet makes one ponder and consider some very insightful principles. They both have had success in their lives and know from which they speak. I would recommend this book to anyone considering taking a leadership role. It is a meat and potato approach that should be mandatory reading for every leadership course.
Buy it, read it, apply it, and live it! Great book!
According to a recent reader of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, “I want to weigh in on this book written by Raymond Foster and his cohort Andrew Harvey. I returned to school last year after 30 years of working and raising my family. In the process I have bought a plethora of books in the last year or so. I bought this book as I studied leadership from a an academic point view as well as using it in my profession. I have enjoyed a great career in law enforcement and in recent years I find myself in positions of leadership, both at work and within our police union. With the advent of the current economic crash leadership skills are in huge demand. I can't believe I waited to read this book until now. I needed to read this book years ago as I found myself leading people through these times.
But hey, better late than never! The authors of this book are incredibly educated and insightful in their perceptions and philosophies on leadership. They are not writing from theory, they are writing from experience, adding to the credibility factor of this book! The poker analogies used in this book are awesome and very to the point. They take the topic of leadership and deliver their thoughts in a down to earth fashion that anyone can comprehend and apply. This book is so easy to read but yet makes one ponder and consider some very insightful principles. They both have had success in their lives and know from which they speak. I would recommend this book to anyone considering taking a leadership role. It is a meat and potato approach that should be mandatory reading for every leadership course.
Buy it, read it, apply it, and live it! Great book!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Former Marine F-18 Pilot Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs
Received Nearly $150,000 in Fraudulent Disability Benefits
February 19, 2010 - LOUISVILLE, KY—After two days of trial, Dean Anthony Toth, age 38, of Oldham County, Kentucky, pled guilty to conspiring to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs by filing a fraudulent claim for military disability benefits, and for structuring bank transactions, United States Attorney Candace G. Hill of the Western District of Kentucky announced today.
Toth served on active duty in the Marine Corps from 1995 to 2004, and was an F-18 pilot who was named the 2003 Marine Instructor of the Year. Toth admitted that between July 2007 and November 2008, he conspired with Daniel Ryan Parker, a former employee of the Disabled American Veterans, to file a fraudulent claim for military disability benefits, claiming that he was deaf in both ears. Parker worked with Jeffrey McGill, a former Department of Veterans Affairs employee, to falsify Toth’s file.
Toth’s military medical records showed yearly audiometry exams, all of which reflected that Toth’s hearing was within normal limits. Toth is now a pilot with Southwest Airlines. In mandatory yearly physicals conducted by the Department of Transportation in March 2006, March 2007, and March 2008, Toth reported no hearing loss or problems, and passed a conversational voice test conducted at six feet. Nonetheless, Toth pursued a military disability claim for hearing loss, and Toth admitted that he knew that Parker would falsify his medical records to support his claim. In return Toth agreed to pay Parker two-thirds of any retroactive payment he received. On August 10, 2007, Toth took a hearing exam and the results indicated that his hearing was "within normal limits." Parker and McGill, however, altered Toth's exam results to reflect that Toth had profound hearing loss, and McGill personally reviewed Toth's claim.
As a result, Toth's claim was approved for 100 percent disability based on hearing loss with special monthly compensation for deafness in both ears. On October 31, 2007, the VA paid Toth $93,240 in retroactive disability payments, and Toth also began receiving over $2,500 per month in disability payments. These monthly payments were tax free and would have continued for life. Toth deposited the $93,240 in his bank account, and in November 2007, Toth withdrew $30,000 in cash from his bank, in three separate $10,000 withdrawals. Toth admitted that he structured these withdrawals to avoid bank reporting requirements for transactions over $10,000. Toth later gave Parker an additional $32,160 in the form of a cashier’s check. The total payment to Parker of $62,160 represented exactly two-thirds of the retroactive payment. Parker subsequently shared that kickback with McGill.
The maximum potential penalties for Toth are 10 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and supervised release for up to three years.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser, and it was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The plea was entered before Jennifer B. Coffman, Judge, United States District Court, Louisville, Kentucky. Toth is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Coffman on May 17, 2010, at 1:00 p.m., in Louisville, Kentucky. Parker and McGill pled guilty previously, along with all 11 other co-defendants, and are scheduled to be sentenced on April 19, 2010, at 2:00 p.m.
February 19, 2010 - LOUISVILLE, KY—After two days of trial, Dean Anthony Toth, age 38, of Oldham County, Kentucky, pled guilty to conspiring to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs by filing a fraudulent claim for military disability benefits, and for structuring bank transactions, United States Attorney Candace G. Hill of the Western District of Kentucky announced today.
Toth served on active duty in the Marine Corps from 1995 to 2004, and was an F-18 pilot who was named the 2003 Marine Instructor of the Year. Toth admitted that between July 2007 and November 2008, he conspired with Daniel Ryan Parker, a former employee of the Disabled American Veterans, to file a fraudulent claim for military disability benefits, claiming that he was deaf in both ears. Parker worked with Jeffrey McGill, a former Department of Veterans Affairs employee, to falsify Toth’s file.
Toth’s military medical records showed yearly audiometry exams, all of which reflected that Toth’s hearing was within normal limits. Toth is now a pilot with Southwest Airlines. In mandatory yearly physicals conducted by the Department of Transportation in March 2006, March 2007, and March 2008, Toth reported no hearing loss or problems, and passed a conversational voice test conducted at six feet. Nonetheless, Toth pursued a military disability claim for hearing loss, and Toth admitted that he knew that Parker would falsify his medical records to support his claim. In return Toth agreed to pay Parker two-thirds of any retroactive payment he received. On August 10, 2007, Toth took a hearing exam and the results indicated that his hearing was "within normal limits." Parker and McGill, however, altered Toth's exam results to reflect that Toth had profound hearing loss, and McGill personally reviewed Toth's claim.
As a result, Toth's claim was approved for 100 percent disability based on hearing loss with special monthly compensation for deafness in both ears. On October 31, 2007, the VA paid Toth $93,240 in retroactive disability payments, and Toth also began receiving over $2,500 per month in disability payments. These monthly payments were tax free and would have continued for life. Toth deposited the $93,240 in his bank account, and in November 2007, Toth withdrew $30,000 in cash from his bank, in three separate $10,000 withdrawals. Toth admitted that he structured these withdrawals to avoid bank reporting requirements for transactions over $10,000. Toth later gave Parker an additional $32,160 in the form of a cashier’s check. The total payment to Parker of $62,160 represented exactly two-thirds of the retroactive payment. Parker subsequently shared that kickback with McGill.
The maximum potential penalties for Toth are 10 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and supervised release for up to three years.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Weiser, and it was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The plea was entered before Jennifer B. Coffman, Judge, United States District Court, Louisville, Kentucky. Toth is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Coffman on May 17, 2010, at 1:00 p.m., in Louisville, Kentucky. Parker and McGill pled guilty previously, along with all 11 other co-defendants, and are scheduled to be sentenced on April 19, 2010, at 2:00 p.m.
Iwo Jima Vets Observe Battle's 65th Anniversary
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - Dozens of veterans of the Battle of Iwo Jima and their families gathered at the National Museum of the Marine Corps here today to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the iconic World War II battle. The battle for Iwo Jima the first U.S. attack on Japanese soil is memorialized worldwide by the famous Joe Rosenthal photo of five Marines and a Navy corpsman raising the U.S. flag on Mount Suribachi. Three of the six later were killed in battle.
"Iwo Jima was not the bloodiest or the longest battle" of World War II and "it probably was not even the most successful in the Pacific Island campaign," Gen. James T. Conway, commandant of the Marine Corps, told the audience. "All that said, Iwo Jima occupies a place in our history like no other battle."
Conway said he believes that's a result of the determination, courage and sacrifice of the men who fought there, noting the "savagery" of the battle. "It was kill or be killed," he said.
And that was true of both sides of the fighting, Conway said, noting a comment a Japanese lieutenant colonel made about the Americans during the battle: "They are relentless, and they fight with a mentality like they are exterminating insects."
George Alden of Fort Worth, Texas, was a 20-year-old sergeant with 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division, when he stormed the volcanic ash beach in the first wave of U.S. troops onto Iwo Jima. The Japanese -- who with 21,000 troops had nearly three times more men than Alden and his unit expected -- had terraced the beach, making for an arduous climb for the troops who had no alternative but to move forward on the eight-square-mile island.
About 400 yards up the beach, Alden and his unit came upon a bunker. After taking charge of the action that demolished the bunker, Alden was seriously wounded on his left side by rifle fire. "I laid out in the open until almost dark," he recalled.
Finally, a litter bearer approached the injured Alden. "They said they'd passed me four times thinking I was dead," he said. They could not evacuate him until the next morning, leaving Alden and three of his comrades in a fox hole overnight.
Three days later, on the fifth day of the battle, Alden was aboard a hospital ship when a medic told him to look out the port hole over his bed. "That was when I saw the flag rising up above the smoke and haze," he said, remembering the scene of Rosenthal's famous photo.
Like others, Alden said, the image of the U.S. flag on the mountaintop made him think the battle soon would be over. In fact, it would last 31 more days, claiming 6,820 Americans dead or missing, and 19,000 wounded.
"We could not have guessed that Feb. 19, 1945, would start 36 of the most deadly days in the history of the Marine Corps and probably the most savage fighting we have ever engaged in," Conway said.
For today's Marines, Iwo Jima is the "gold standard," the commandant said. "It drives us, it inspires us, and it gives us confidence" in training and preparedness, he said.
In the Iraq war, Conway said, a young Marine was asked about the possibility of U.S. troops wresting control of Fallujah from insurgents. "Of course we can take Fallujah," Conway said the Marine replied. "We took Iwo Jima."
Retired Marine Corps Gen. James L. Jones, now President Barack Obama's national security advisor, thanked the veterans for their service. "We honor your legacy for the lives you saved," he said.
Jones said today's Marines gain strength from the examples set by the veterans of Iwo Jima, and he asked the audience to keep today's Marines in mind, especially those confronting the Taliban in Afghanistan.
Ron "Rondo" Scharfe, an Iwo Jima veteran from Missoula, Mont., was 16 when he hit the Japanese island's shores. "Our knees were shaking so bad we could barely stand up," he said. "We didn't know where the hell we were going. We were tight as rubber bands."
Scharfe said he and his comrades crawled onto the beach, which already was smoking and "smelling like a junkyard" on the first day of battle. The Japanese "waited 'til we got on the beach, then they opened up on us," he said.
Scharfe survived nine days of Iwo Jima without serious injuries, before being sent to Okinawa. Today, he said, he thinks about the Marines in Afghanistan and thinks Iwo Jima was easier in at least one way. "At least we knew who the enemy was," he said.
Retired Marine Corps Col. Harvey Barnum, a Medal of Honor recipient for heroism in Vietnam, said the courage of those on Iwo Jima was proven by the number of Medal of Honor recipients the battle yielded: 22 Marines and five sailors.
The commemoration of the battle is important for the veterans who remain, Barnum said.
"They've gotten older, but nothing has changed in their heart," he said. "These people are all in their 80s, and they've come from all over the country to be here. But this will be the last time for many of them."
MILITARY CONTRACTS February 19, 2010
U.S. SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND
iGov Technologies of McLean, Va., is the current contractor for the USSOCOM Tactical Local Area Network contract providing TACLAN family of system acquisition, design, integration, production, and delivery in support of Special Operations Forces' mission requirements. This sole source effort is to increase the TACLAN contract maximum from $300,000,000 to $450,000,000. The original contract was awarded through a competitive action. The contract number for the increase is 92222-08-D-0017, Modification.
ARMY
GM GDLS Defense Group LLC., Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Feb. 8, 2010 a $176,185,164 firm-fixed-price contract for 103 each of Stryker vehicles. Work is to be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., (60 percent), and London, Ontario, and Canada, (40 pecent) with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2012. One bid was solicted with one bid recived. Tank Automotive & Armament Command, SFAE-GCS-BCT-P, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-07-D-M112).
Lockheed Martin Missiles and fire control, Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Feb. 5, 2010 a $76,578,606 firm-fixed-price and time and material contract. This contract is for the issuance of an underfinitized contract action for the purchase of AH-64 Apache modernized target acquisition designation sight/pilots night vision sensor arrowhead kits, partial B-kits, tad electronic display and control, associated spares and support for the United States, Taiwan and the government of Israel. Work is to be performed in Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2013. One bid solicted with one bid received. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-AP-B, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-06-C-0169).
Oshkosk Corp., Oshkosh, Wisc., was awarded on Feb. 5, 2010 a $52,090,900 firm-fixed-price contract for 1,451 each quanity of retrofit kits for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance suite and battery upgrade/silent watch on the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle. Work is to be performed in Ishkosh, WI., with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. Five bids were solicted with five bids received. TACOM, CCTA-ADC-A, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-D-0111).
Dyncorp International LLC., Falls Church, Va., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $44,881,488 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Combined Sercurity Transition Command. This is training and mentoring services contract with a two-year base period of performance and one (1) one-year option. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan, with an estimated completion date of Apr. 13, 2013. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with five bids received. U.S. Army research, Development and Engineering Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-10-C-0030).
Cajun Constructors, Inc., Baton Rouge, La., was awarded on Feb. 10, 2010 a $42,805,800 construction-firm-fixed-price contract for the West Bank and vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana, Hurrican Protection Project, Westwego to Harvey Canal. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 14, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with seven bids recived. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0046).
Phylway Construction, LLC., Thibodaux, La., was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $41,308,168 firm-fixed-price contract for the West Bank and vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana, Hurrican Protection Project, Westwego to Harvey Canal, New Westwego Pumping Stations to Orleans Village Levee, third enlargement. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of June 20, 2011. Bids were solicted via Fedteds with four bids recived. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-09-D-0046).
Opus Northwest Construction LLC., Denver, Colo., was awarded on Feb. 9, 2010 a $37,759,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the desgn/build contract for the design and construction of a new Armed Forces Reserve Center with field maintenance shop in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Work is to be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 18, 2011. Bids were solcited through ASFI with 40 bid recived. USPFO for Iowa, Johnston, Iowa, is the contracting activity Hensel Phelps Contruction, Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $37,583,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Special Forces complex Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. This project will require construction of the primary facilities. Work is to be performed in Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Jan. 8, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with 16 bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Moblie Regional Contracting Center, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-10-C-0026).
Genral Atomics Aeronautical System, Poway, Calif., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $36,683,850 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. This contract is for logistics support contract for warrior alpha/warrior block 0 unmanned aircraft systems at multiple OCONUS locations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Work is to be performed in San Diego, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 15, 2011. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, AMCOM Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-10-C-0044).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missiles and Fire Control, Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $26,884,609 firm-fixed-price contract for High Moblity Artillery Rocket System Full Rate Production 5, option exercise for 12 Jordan Launchers. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas, (40 percent) and East Camden, Ark., (60 percent) with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2012. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting actiivty (W31P4Q-08-C-0001).
Lyda Swinerton, San Antonio, Texas., was awarded on Feb. 11, 2010 a $23,483,762 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the construction of the Lackland Airman Training Center dining/classroom Facility #1. Work is to be performed on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Oct. 2, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with 16 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Distict, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-10-C-0017).
Mantech Telecommunications and Information Systems Corp, Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $23,389,656 time and material contract for services in Afghanistan. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bids received. TACOM- Warren, AMSTA-AQ-ADED, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0540).
AveroVironment, Incorp., Simi Valley, Calif., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2010 a $20,731,991 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract exercises priced options for 113 Army Digital Data Link (DDL) Systems, 113 Army initial spares packages and 127 Army DDL retrofit kits. Work is to be performed in Simi Valley, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 1, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command/CCAM-AR-A is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-05-C-0338).
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc., St. Louis, Mo., was awarded on Feb. 10, 2010 a $20,231,594 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for resent of 42 each of M1200 armored Knight vehicles. Work is to be performed in St.Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2011. One bid was solicted with one bids received. TACOM Contracting Center, Warren, CCTA-AHL-C, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-10-C-0173).
Head, Inc., Columbus, Ohio, was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $19,032,984 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract includes, but is not limited to replacement of the existing asphalt taxiway keels, widening the taxiway keel, and narrowing the existing taxiway width. Work also includes mill and overlay of existing taxiway shoulders, replacement of taxiway edge lighting and airfield pavement markings. Work is to be performed at Altus Air Force Base, Okla., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 29, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District, Tulsa, Okla., is the contracting activity (W912BV-10-C-2001).
Edward Kraemer & Sons, Inc., Plain, WI., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $19,025,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the design/build constuction contract to design and construct safety improvements on the Mississippi River along the lower embankments at Lock & Dam 3, near Red Wing, Minn. Work is to be performed in Diamond Bluff, WI., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. Three bids were solicted with two bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, St. Paul, Minn., is the contracting activity (W912ES-10-C-0011).
TRU-Hitch, Inc., Pleasant, Vallet, Conn., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2010 a $17,733,259 firm-fixed-price contract for 105 each Interim Stryker recovery systems with associated basic issue items, logistic packages and authorized stockage list package. Work is to be performed in Pleasant Vally., Conn., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bid received. TACOM-Warren, CCTA-ATB-D-Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0498).
Niche, Inc., New Bedford, Mass., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2009 a $16,718,685 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 9,111 each low velocity parachute systems. Work is to be performed in New Bedford, Mass., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2010. Four bids were solicted with fpur bids received. Research Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W58P05-09-D-0007).
NAVY
Parker-Hannifin Corp., Irvine Calif., is being awarded a $46,044,353 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a maximum ordering quantity of 141 hydraulic subsystems kits. The initial delivery order is for ten kits and is valued at $3,154,740. Additional support items procured under this action include technical and program support items such as manuals, configuration management, and spare parts kits. Work will be performed in Albany, Ga., and work is expected to be complete by Feb 19, 2015. Contract funds will not expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is a full and open competition award to Parker-Hannifin Corporation as they won the competition for the M9 Ace Hydraulic Upgrades. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-5019).
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Tewksbury, Mass., is being awarded a $27,828,683 not-to-exceed modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-05-C-5346) for common display system (CDS) hardware and software integration with the Integrated Bridge Console and Distributed Control Workstation hardware in support of shipyard hull mechanical and electrical activation. The purpose of this modification is to incorporate the CDS hardware and software integration related changes in support of DDG 1000 program ship activation activities in the 2011 timeframe. These integration efforts represent changes to the current requirements of total ship computing environment software development. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, R.I., (66.1 percent); Tewksbury, Mass., (22.9 percent); Moorestown, N.J., (8.3 percent); and the remaining 2.7 percent of effort will be performed in San Diego, Calif., Andover, Mass., and Sudbury, Mass. Work is expected to be completed by May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Booz Allen Hamilton, McLean, Va. (N00421-10-D-0005); Deloitte Consulting, LLP, Alexandria, Va., (N00421-10-D-000); National Technologies Associates, Inc., Alexandria, Va. (N00421-10-D-0007); and Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif. (N00421-10-D-0008), are each being awarded indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity multiple award contracts for management, organizational, and business improvement services, financial and business solutions, and human resources services supporting Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Corporate Operations and Comptroller offices. The aggregate not-to-exceed amount for these multiple award contracts combined is $16,338,000, and the companies will have the opportunity to bid on each individual task order. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., however, services may be performed at any of the following NAVAIR sites: St. Inigoes, Md.; Lakehurst N.J.; Point Mugu, Calif.; China Lake, Calif.; Orlando Fla.; Cherry Point, N.C.; Jacksonville, Fla., and North Island, Calif. Work performed under these contracts is expected to be completed in February 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $40,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. These contracts were solicited via a multiple award electronic request for proposals and five offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded an $8,010,427 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for engineering and technical services in support of the AN/USQ-82(V) design agent, and configuration management and technical engineering services lifecycle support of the Data Multiplex System, Fiber Optic Data Multiplex System, Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System and Ship's Data Multiplex System networks installed in the fleet and at land-based test sites. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., (40 percent); Philadelphia, Pa., (25 percent); Moorestown, N.J., (6 percent); Wallops Island, Va., (6 percent); Orlando, Fla., (6 percent); Dam Neck, Va., (6 percent); Great Lakes, Ill., (6 percent); and various other locations (5 percent), and is expected to be completed by February 2015. Contract funds in the amount of $213,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (N65540-10-D-0006).
The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $6,067,051 not-to-exceed modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-08-D-0013) to provide 300 hours of persistent unmanned aerial vehicle intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services in support of naval maritime missions. Work will be performed in Bingen, Wash., (65 percent) and St. Louis, Mo., (35 percent), and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $6,067,051 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Lockheed Martin Corp, of Marietta, Ga., was awarded a $86,200,000 contract which will provide for the C-5M reliability enhancement and reengineering program. At this time, $23,169,488 has been obligated. 716 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8625-09-D-6485).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., of San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $15,386,715 contract which will provide design of test articles, fabrication of test articles, integration, qualification and tests as appropriate for Spiral 3 changes. At this time, $9,500,000 has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (F33657-0I-C-4600).
Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., of Herndon, Va., was awarded a $10,114,526 contract which will provide the Air Force Material Command Air Force global logistics support with emerging automation identification technology analysis, enterprise data reports and control validation reports in order to develop innovative and secure solutions for potential application throughout the Air Force enterprise. At this time, $129,446 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (SP0700-98-D-4002).
Applied Research Associates, Incorporated of Albuquerque, New Mexico was awarded a $7,827,547 contract which will provide the development and demonstration of one Automated Field Intravenous Reconstitution System to Air Force requirement specifications. This unit is to develop compact, energy-efficient automated systems that will be capable of producing packaged intravenous fluids on demand for use in military field hospitals. At this time, $2,209,000 has been obligated. 77th AESG/PSK, Brooks City-Base, Texas is the contracting activity (FA8902-07-C-1012).
Rockwell Collins, Inc. of Cedar Rapids, Iowa was awarded a $6,497,108 contract which will provide for the building and testing of ten tactical targeting network technology terminals that meet very specific requirements. At this time, $6,497,108 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD of Rome, New York is the contracting activity (FA8650-06-D-7636).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Integrys Energy Services, Inc., De Pere, Wis. is being awarded a maximum $12,946,555 firm fixed price contract for electricity. Other locations of performance are throughout Illinois. Using services are Army, Air Force and federal civilian agencies. There were originally 74 proposals solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 31, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center (DESC), Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-10-D-8005).
Omega Apparel, Incorporated, Smithville, Tenn.,* is being awarded a maximum $6,868,800 firm fixed price, total set-aside, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for men's dress trousers. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. The original proposal was solicited with ten responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is June 18, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-10-D-1041).
iGov Technologies of McLean, Va., is the current contractor for the USSOCOM Tactical Local Area Network contract providing TACLAN family of system acquisition, design, integration, production, and delivery in support of Special Operations Forces' mission requirements. This sole source effort is to increase the TACLAN contract maximum from $300,000,000 to $450,000,000. The original contract was awarded through a competitive action. The contract number for the increase is 92222-08-D-0017, Modification.
ARMY
GM GDLS Defense Group LLC., Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Feb. 8, 2010 a $176,185,164 firm-fixed-price contract for 103 each of Stryker vehicles. Work is to be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., (60 percent), and London, Ontario, and Canada, (40 pecent) with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2012. One bid was solicted with one bid recived. Tank Automotive & Armament Command, SFAE-GCS-BCT-P, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-07-D-M112).
Lockheed Martin Missiles and fire control, Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Feb. 5, 2010 a $76,578,606 firm-fixed-price and time and material contract. This contract is for the issuance of an underfinitized contract action for the purchase of AH-64 Apache modernized target acquisition designation sight/pilots night vision sensor arrowhead kits, partial B-kits, tad electronic display and control, associated spares and support for the United States, Taiwan and the government of Israel. Work is to be performed in Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2013. One bid solicted with one bid received. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-AP-B, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-06-C-0169).
Oshkosk Corp., Oshkosh, Wisc., was awarded on Feb. 5, 2010 a $52,090,900 firm-fixed-price contract for 1,451 each quanity of retrofit kits for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance suite and battery upgrade/silent watch on the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle. Work is to be performed in Ishkosh, WI., with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. Five bids were solicted with five bids received. TACOM, CCTA-ADC-A, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-D-0111).
Dyncorp International LLC., Falls Church, Va., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $44,881,488 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Combined Sercurity Transition Command. This is training and mentoring services contract with a two-year base period of performance and one (1) one-year option. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan, with an estimated completion date of Apr. 13, 2013. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with five bids received. U.S. Army research, Development and Engineering Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-10-C-0030).
Cajun Constructors, Inc., Baton Rouge, La., was awarded on Feb. 10, 2010 a $42,805,800 construction-firm-fixed-price contract for the West Bank and vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana, Hurrican Protection Project, Westwego to Harvey Canal. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 14, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with seven bids recived. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0046).
Phylway Construction, LLC., Thibodaux, La., was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $41,308,168 firm-fixed-price contract for the West Bank and vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana, Hurrican Protection Project, Westwego to Harvey Canal, New Westwego Pumping Stations to Orleans Village Levee, third enlargement. Work is to be performed in Jefferson Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of June 20, 2011. Bids were solicted via Fedteds with four bids recived. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-09-D-0046).
Opus Northwest Construction LLC., Denver, Colo., was awarded on Feb. 9, 2010 a $37,759,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the desgn/build contract for the design and construction of a new Armed Forces Reserve Center with field maintenance shop in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Work is to be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 18, 2011. Bids were solcited through ASFI with 40 bid recived. USPFO for Iowa, Johnston, Iowa, is the contracting activity Hensel Phelps Contruction, Orlando, Fla., was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $37,583,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Special Forces complex Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. This project will require construction of the primary facilities. Work is to be performed in Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Jan. 8, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with 16 bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Moblie Regional Contracting Center, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-10-C-0026).
Genral Atomics Aeronautical System, Poway, Calif., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $36,683,850 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. This contract is for logistics support contract for warrior alpha/warrior block 0 unmanned aircraft systems at multiple OCONUS locations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Work is to be performed in San Diego, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 15, 2011. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, AMCOM Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-10-C-0044).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missiles and Fire Control, Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $26,884,609 firm-fixed-price contract for High Moblity Artillery Rocket System Full Rate Production 5, option exercise for 12 Jordan Launchers. Work is to be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas, (40 percent) and East Camden, Ark., (60 percent) with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2012. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting actiivty (W31P4Q-08-C-0001).
Lyda Swinerton, San Antonio, Texas., was awarded on Feb. 11, 2010 a $23,483,762 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the construction of the Lackland Airman Training Center dining/classroom Facility #1. Work is to be performed on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Oct. 2, 2011. Bids were solicted on the World Wide Web with 16 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Distict, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-10-C-0017).
Mantech Telecommunications and Information Systems Corp, Chantilly, Va., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $23,389,656 time and material contract for services in Afghanistan. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bids received. TACOM- Warren, AMSTA-AQ-ADED, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0540).
AveroVironment, Incorp., Simi Valley, Calif., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2010 a $20,731,991 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract exercises priced options for 113 Army Digital Data Link (DDL) Systems, 113 Army initial spares packages and 127 Army DDL retrofit kits. Work is to be performed in Simi Valley, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 1, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command/CCAM-AR-A is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-05-C-0338).
DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc., St. Louis, Mo., was awarded on Feb. 10, 2010 a $20,231,594 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for resent of 42 each of M1200 armored Knight vehicles. Work is to be performed in St.Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2011. One bid was solicted with one bids received. TACOM Contracting Center, Warren, CCTA-AHL-C, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-10-C-0173).
Head, Inc., Columbus, Ohio, was awarded on Feb. 4, 2010 a $19,032,984 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract includes, but is not limited to replacement of the existing asphalt taxiway keels, widening the taxiway keel, and narrowing the existing taxiway width. Work also includes mill and overlay of existing taxiway shoulders, replacement of taxiway edge lighting and airfield pavement markings. Work is to be performed at Altus Air Force Base, Okla., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 29, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District, Tulsa, Okla., is the contracting activity (W912BV-10-C-2001).
Edward Kraemer & Sons, Inc., Plain, WI., was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010 a $19,025,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the design/build constuction contract to design and construct safety improvements on the Mississippi River along the lower embankments at Lock & Dam 3, near Red Wing, Minn. Work is to be performed in Diamond Bluff, WI., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. Three bids were solicted with two bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, St. Paul, Minn., is the contracting activity (W912ES-10-C-0011).
TRU-Hitch, Inc., Pleasant, Vallet, Conn., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2010 a $17,733,259 firm-fixed-price contract for 105 each Interim Stryker recovery systems with associated basic issue items, logistic packages and authorized stockage list package. Work is to be performed in Pleasant Vally., Conn., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicted with one bid received. TACOM-Warren, CCTA-ATB-D-Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0498).
Niche, Inc., New Bedford, Mass., was awarded on Feb. 16, 2009 a $16,718,685 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of 9,111 each low velocity parachute systems. Work is to be performed in New Bedford, Mass., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2010. Four bids were solicted with fpur bids received. Research Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W58P05-09-D-0007).
NAVY
Parker-Hannifin Corp., Irvine Calif., is being awarded a $46,044,353 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a maximum ordering quantity of 141 hydraulic subsystems kits. The initial delivery order is for ten kits and is valued at $3,154,740. Additional support items procured under this action include technical and program support items such as manuals, configuration management, and spare parts kits. Work will be performed in Albany, Ga., and work is expected to be complete by Feb 19, 2015. Contract funds will not expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is a full and open competition award to Parker-Hannifin Corporation as they won the competition for the M9 Ace Hydraulic Upgrades. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-5019).
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Tewksbury, Mass., is being awarded a $27,828,683 not-to-exceed modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-05-C-5346) for common display system (CDS) hardware and software integration with the Integrated Bridge Console and Distributed Control Workstation hardware in support of shipyard hull mechanical and electrical activation. The purpose of this modification is to incorporate the CDS hardware and software integration related changes in support of DDG 1000 program ship activation activities in the 2011 timeframe. These integration efforts represent changes to the current requirements of total ship computing environment software development. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, R.I., (66.1 percent); Tewksbury, Mass., (22.9 percent); Moorestown, N.J., (8.3 percent); and the remaining 2.7 percent of effort will be performed in San Diego, Calif., Andover, Mass., and Sudbury, Mass. Work is expected to be completed by May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Booz Allen Hamilton, McLean, Va. (N00421-10-D-0005); Deloitte Consulting, LLP, Alexandria, Va., (N00421-10-D-000); National Technologies Associates, Inc., Alexandria, Va. (N00421-10-D-0007); and Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif. (N00421-10-D-0008), are each being awarded indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity multiple award contracts for management, organizational, and business improvement services, financial and business solutions, and human resources services supporting Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Corporate Operations and Comptroller offices. The aggregate not-to-exceed amount for these multiple award contracts combined is $16,338,000, and the companies will have the opportunity to bid on each individual task order. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., however, services may be performed at any of the following NAVAIR sites: St. Inigoes, Md.; Lakehurst N.J.; Point Mugu, Calif.; China Lake, Calif.; Orlando Fla.; Cherry Point, N.C.; Jacksonville, Fla., and North Island, Calif. Work performed under these contracts is expected to be completed in February 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $40,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. These contracts were solicited via a multiple award electronic request for proposals and five offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded an $8,010,427 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for engineering and technical services in support of the AN/USQ-82(V) design agent, and configuration management and technical engineering services lifecycle support of the Data Multiplex System, Fiber Optic Data Multiplex System, Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System and Ship's Data Multiplex System networks installed in the fleet and at land-based test sites. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., (40 percent); Philadelphia, Pa., (25 percent); Moorestown, N.J., (6 percent); Wallops Island, Va., (6 percent); Orlando, Fla., (6 percent); Dam Neck, Va., (6 percent); Great Lakes, Ill., (6 percent); and various other locations (5 percent), and is expected to be completed by February 2015. Contract funds in the amount of $213,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (N65540-10-D-0006).
The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $6,067,051 not-to-exceed modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-08-D-0013) to provide 300 hours of persistent unmanned aerial vehicle intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services in support of naval maritime missions. Work will be performed in Bingen, Wash., (65 percent) and St. Louis, Mo., (35 percent), and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $6,067,051 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Lockheed Martin Corp, of Marietta, Ga., was awarded a $86,200,000 contract which will provide for the C-5M reliability enhancement and reengineering program. At this time, $23,169,488 has been obligated. 716 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8625-09-D-6485).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., of San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $15,386,715 contract which will provide design of test articles, fabrication of test articles, integration, qualification and tests as appropriate for Spiral 3 changes. At this time, $9,500,000 has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (F33657-0I-C-4600).
Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., of Herndon, Va., was awarded a $10,114,526 contract which will provide the Air Force Material Command Air Force global logistics support with emerging automation identification technology analysis, enterprise data reports and control validation reports in order to develop innovative and secure solutions for potential application throughout the Air Force enterprise. At this time, $129,446 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (SP0700-98-D-4002).
Applied Research Associates, Incorporated of Albuquerque, New Mexico was awarded a $7,827,547 contract which will provide the development and demonstration of one Automated Field Intravenous Reconstitution System to Air Force requirement specifications. This unit is to develop compact, energy-efficient automated systems that will be capable of producing packaged intravenous fluids on demand for use in military field hospitals. At this time, $2,209,000 has been obligated. 77th AESG/PSK, Brooks City-Base, Texas is the contracting activity (FA8902-07-C-1012).
Rockwell Collins, Inc. of Cedar Rapids, Iowa was awarded a $6,497,108 contract which will provide for the building and testing of ten tactical targeting network technology terminals that meet very specific requirements. At this time, $6,497,108 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD of Rome, New York is the contracting activity (FA8650-06-D-7636).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Integrys Energy Services, Inc., De Pere, Wis. is being awarded a maximum $12,946,555 firm fixed price contract for electricity. Other locations of performance are throughout Illinois. Using services are Army, Air Force and federal civilian agencies. There were originally 74 proposals solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 31, 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center (DESC), Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-10-D-8005).
Omega Apparel, Incorporated, Smithville, Tenn.,* is being awarded a maximum $6,868,800 firm fixed price, total set-aside, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for men's dress trousers. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. The original proposal was solicited with ten responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is June 18, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-10-D-1041).
DOD Announces Return of Facilities in Belgium
The Department of Defense today announced that it will return ten buildings at Florennes Air Base, Belgium, in 2010 to the host nation of Belgium.
The return involves ten empty buildings, which formerly housed the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Tactical Leadership School. The school relocated to Spain's Los Llanos Air Base in June 2009, therefore the buildings are now excess to DoD's needs.
The return of the buildings will have no impact on Department of Defense personnel.
U.S. Forces Europe has begun the process of returning the buildings to the host nation of Belgium. The annual operating cost savings by returning these buildings is estimated to be approximately $1.8 million.
For additional information regarding this announcement, please contact U.S. Air Forces in Europe Office of Public Affairs at 011-49-6371-6558 or pa.ops@ramstein.af.mil.
Guard Evacuates Downed Helicopter's Passengers
American Forces Press Service
W.Va., Feb. 19, 2010 - Thirteen of the 17 passengers stranded in a remote region of West Virginia's Pocahontas County have been evacuated from a Navy MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter that was forced to land in the area yesterday, National Guard officials said.
Rescued passengers are being evaluated by emergency services agencies and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
West Virginia Army National Guard medics still are at the landing site and are working with emergency crews to evacuate the remaining passengers, said Mike Cadle, the state public affairs officer.
The helicopter reportedly was carrying passengers from Fort Pickett, Va., to Camp Dawson in Preston County, W.Va. Three members of the West Virginia National Guard were on board the aircraft.
The aircraft was participating in Operation Southbound Trooper X, an annual military exercise focusing on the integration of U.S. and NATO tactics and procedures as well as interservice coordination and capabilities.
A West Virginia Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter located the downed aircraft at about 7:15 p.m. yesterday. Two medics were lowered to the landing site to assess the situation and assist the injured.
Rescue personnel reported several injuries to the passengers, but the extent of those injuries still is being determined.
A West Virginia Air National Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft from the 130th Airlift Wing based here has been circling the site to maintain communications with the downed aircraft.
On-site rescue efforts are being coordinated by the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the West Virginia National Guard.
The National Guard is working with local officials to deliver food, water, blankets and other essential items to the rugged, snow-covered site, which lies in northwestern Pocahontas County.
(From a West Virginia National Guard news release.)
W.Va., Feb. 19, 2010 - Thirteen of the 17 passengers stranded in a remote region of West Virginia's Pocahontas County have been evacuated from a Navy MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter that was forced to land in the area yesterday, National Guard officials said.
Rescued passengers are being evaluated by emergency services agencies and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
West Virginia Army National Guard medics still are at the landing site and are working with emergency crews to evacuate the remaining passengers, said Mike Cadle, the state public affairs officer.
The helicopter reportedly was carrying passengers from Fort Pickett, Va., to Camp Dawson in Preston County, W.Va. Three members of the West Virginia National Guard were on board the aircraft.
The aircraft was participating in Operation Southbound Trooper X, an annual military exercise focusing on the integration of U.S. and NATO tactics and procedures as well as interservice coordination and capabilities.
A West Virginia Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter located the downed aircraft at about 7:15 p.m. yesterday. Two medics were lowered to the landing site to assess the situation and assist the injured.
Rescue personnel reported several injuries to the passengers, but the extent of those injuries still is being determined.
A West Virginia Air National Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft from the 130th Airlift Wing based here has been circling the site to maintain communications with the downed aircraft.
On-site rescue efforts are being coordinated by the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the West Virginia National Guard.
The National Guard is working with local officials to deliver food, water, blankets and other essential items to the rugged, snow-covered site, which lies in northwestern Pocahontas County.
(From a West Virginia National Guard news release.)
Military Services on Track With Recruiting Goals
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - All four active services and the six reserve components met or exceeded their recruiting goals for the month of January, Defense Department officials said today.
At the same time, the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force retained near or above mission goals through the first four months of fiscal 2010, a Pentagon news release says. Attrition in all reserve components is within acceptable limits.
Here is the recruiting breakdown for January:
Army: 8,513 accessions, with a goal of 8,393 for 101 percent;
Navy: 3,012 accessions, with a goal of 3,012 for 100 percent;
Marine Corps: 3,035 accessions, with a goal of 3,024 for 100 percent;
Air Force: 2,593 accessions, with a goal of 2,593 for 100 percent;
Army National Guard: 4,402 accessions, with a goal of 4,100 for 107 percent;
Army Reserve: 2,272 accessions, with a goal of 2,229 for 102 percent;
Navy Reserve: 511 accessions, with a goal of 511 for 100 percent;
Marine Corps Reserve: 1,130 accessions, with a goal of 819 for 138 percent;
Air National Guard: 563 accessions, with a goal of 470 for 120 percent; and,
Air Force Reserve: 772 accessions, with a goal of 772 for 100 percent.
(From a Defense Department news release.)
Feb. 19, 2010 - All four active services and the six reserve components met or exceeded their recruiting goals for the month of January, Defense Department officials said today.
At the same time, the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force retained near or above mission goals through the first four months of fiscal 2010, a Pentagon news release says. Attrition in all reserve components is within acceptable limits.
Here is the recruiting breakdown for January:
Army: 8,513 accessions, with a goal of 8,393 for 101 percent;
Navy: 3,012 accessions, with a goal of 3,012 for 100 percent;
Marine Corps: 3,035 accessions, with a goal of 3,024 for 100 percent;
Air Force: 2,593 accessions, with a goal of 2,593 for 100 percent;
Army National Guard: 4,402 accessions, with a goal of 4,100 for 107 percent;
Army Reserve: 2,272 accessions, with a goal of 2,229 for 102 percent;
Navy Reserve: 511 accessions, with a goal of 511 for 100 percent;
Marine Corps Reserve: 1,130 accessions, with a goal of 819 for 138 percent;
Air National Guard: 563 accessions, with a goal of 470 for 120 percent; and,
Air Force Reserve: 772 accessions, with a goal of 772 for 100 percent.
(From a Defense Department news release.)
Ill Teela Sits Out 20K Biathlon Race
By Tim Hipps
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program biathlete Sgt. Jeremy Teela of the Vermont National Guard sat out the Olympic men's 20-kilometer individual race yesterday because of illness. "I came down with something last night, and this morning my sinuses were all jammed up," Teela said via telephone. "I went for a little workout this morning before breakfast, and I wasn't going to be good enough to compete at this level, so I'm taking a break and letting one of the other guys compete."
Wynn Roberts, 21, of Battle Lake, Minn., substituted for Teela, who was scheduled to start 18th among 88 competitors.
"He's a younger guy, but he's really talented," Teela said of Roberts. "He hasn't had a chance yet to race, and he probably wasn't going to, but I think he'll do fine covering my spot."
Teela said he hopes he has only a head cold.
"I'm not sure, but it's enough where I can tell there's a difference in my body," he said. "When something is messed up just a little bit, at this level, an athlete can feel it. I wouldn't be affected driving, but for what we do, it's different."
Teela led Team USA's four competitors with a ninth-place finish in the 10-kilometer sprint Feb. 14 and a 24th-place finish in the 12.5-kilometer pursuit Feb. 16. He had even higher hopes for yesterday's event.
"I'm throttled," he said. "This is a really important race. It's one of the bigger chances we have as a team. We have five chances here. But this one, out of all our chances, is the real deal, so I'm just disappointed."
Teela, 33, of Heber City, Utah, planned to watch the race on television.
"I will watch it, but watching it is the worst pain I can imagine," Teela said of having to watch in place of competing. "But I've got to watch it, because I've got to support these guys."
Tella said he expects to be ready for the 15k mass-start relay event scheduled Feb. 21.
"I'm sure I'll be fine for the relay," Teela said. "Hopefully, I can kick this by then."
(Tim Hipps works at the U.S. Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command public affairs office.)
Historical Project Documents Navy Diversity
By Christen N. McCluney
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - African-Americans have a long legacy in the military that began with the Revolutionary War and has continued to this day. To highlight this legacy, the Naval History and Heritage Command is working on a project documenting the history of diversity in the Navy from 1775 to the present through a variety of products including oral histories, narratives, chronology, photographs and a book.
The diversity project covers not only African-Americans but also women, Hispanics, Native Americans and Asians. It also looks at religious diversity as well.
"African-Americans have always desired to support the nation in hopes that a better society would emerge for them," said Regina Akers, a historian at the command and an expert on African-American history, during a Feb. 17 interview on the Pentagon Channel podcast "Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military."
Diversity is a both strength and a strategic imperative for the Navy and its mission, Akers said, and the project is aligned with that to tell the story of how people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds came to serve in the U.S. Navy and how their roles have changed over time.
"Many times, I've observed that young Americans will select a hero who is an athlete or business person and they don't consider the outstanding men and women that served in the military," she said. "There is much to learn from their experiences."
For example, she said, Navy Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. was the first African-American to be promoted to admiral and to command a war ship. During his time in the military from the 1940s to the 1980s, he faced many challenges. Early in his career -- when his duties were not equal to his qualifications -- he did not let that deter him, Akers said, believing every job was an opportunity to learn.
Gravely used his extra time to take correspondence courses, and when the opportunity for a better assignment arose, his test results, performance evaluations and experience made him one of the most qualified applicants.
Gravely's formula for success was "education plus motivation plus preservation," Akers said, and these and other factors helped him excel in his Navy career.
The oral history portion of the project helps to bring life to the subject matter, Akers said. "Oral history is critical," she said. A written report, she explained, usually tells what happened. But an oral history explains how it happened and provides perspective.
Society is moving away from paper-based communication, Akers noted, so this historical research is important for the future.
"In the past, letters and other correspondence were able to capture history," she said. "With technology today, one writes e-mails that are likely to be deleted. The research needs to continue so that we can understand what blacks and other minorities have done and are doing in uniform."
One of the biggest challenges Akers said she has experienced is that many veterans think they don't have a story worth telling.
"Some don't understand the significance of their experiences, and you have to help them appreciate them and why someone would be interested," she said. But once they do participate, she added, many find it to be cathartic.
"It can bring healing and peace to a part of life that was unsettled for them, she said, "and they are honored that their history will be a part of the government's official archives."
"Heroic," "determined" and "sacrificial" are three words that Akers said describe the legacy of African-Americans in the armed forces. More information and accounts of the past, she said, will add to the body of knowledge.
"Today's military is much more diverse than it has ever been," Akers said. "But it doesn't mean that racial equality and gender equality has necessarily been achieved. All the missing pages relating to minorities in the history of the Navy and of the United States have not been filled, so the study needs to continue so we can learn more and better understand their experiences."
(Christen N. McCluney works in the Defense Media Activity's emerging media directorate.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - African-Americans have a long legacy in the military that began with the Revolutionary War and has continued to this day. To highlight this legacy, the Naval History and Heritage Command is working on a project documenting the history of diversity in the Navy from 1775 to the present through a variety of products including oral histories, narratives, chronology, photographs and a book.
The diversity project covers not only African-Americans but also women, Hispanics, Native Americans and Asians. It also looks at religious diversity as well.
"African-Americans have always desired to support the nation in hopes that a better society would emerge for them," said Regina Akers, a historian at the command and an expert on African-American history, during a Feb. 17 interview on the Pentagon Channel podcast "Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military."
Diversity is a both strength and a strategic imperative for the Navy and its mission, Akers said, and the project is aligned with that to tell the story of how people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds came to serve in the U.S. Navy and how their roles have changed over time.
"Many times, I've observed that young Americans will select a hero who is an athlete or business person and they don't consider the outstanding men and women that served in the military," she said. "There is much to learn from their experiences."
For example, she said, Navy Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. was the first African-American to be promoted to admiral and to command a war ship. During his time in the military from the 1940s to the 1980s, he faced many challenges. Early in his career -- when his duties were not equal to his qualifications -- he did not let that deter him, Akers said, believing every job was an opportunity to learn.
Gravely used his extra time to take correspondence courses, and when the opportunity for a better assignment arose, his test results, performance evaluations and experience made him one of the most qualified applicants.
Gravely's formula for success was "education plus motivation plus preservation," Akers said, and these and other factors helped him excel in his Navy career.
The oral history portion of the project helps to bring life to the subject matter, Akers said. "Oral history is critical," she said. A written report, she explained, usually tells what happened. But an oral history explains how it happened and provides perspective.
Society is moving away from paper-based communication, Akers noted, so this historical research is important for the future.
"In the past, letters and other correspondence were able to capture history," she said. "With technology today, one writes e-mails that are likely to be deleted. The research needs to continue so that we can understand what blacks and other minorities have done and are doing in uniform."
One of the biggest challenges Akers said she has experienced is that many veterans think they don't have a story worth telling.
"Some don't understand the significance of their experiences, and you have to help them appreciate them and why someone would be interested," she said. But once they do participate, she added, many find it to be cathartic.
"It can bring healing and peace to a part of life that was unsettled for them, she said, "and they are honored that their history will be a part of the government's official archives."
"Heroic," "determined" and "sacrificial" are three words that Akers said describe the legacy of African-Americans in the armed forces. More information and accounts of the past, she said, will add to the body of knowledge.
"Today's military is much more diverse than it has ever been," Akers said. "But it doesn't mean that racial equality and gender equality has necessarily been achieved. All the missing pages relating to minorities in the history of the Navy and of the United States have not been filled, so the study needs to continue so we can learn more and better understand their experiences."
(Christen N. McCluney works in the Defense Media Activity's emerging media directorate.)
Bobsled Teams Prepare for Weekend Events
By Tim Hipps
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - The three men's U.S. Olympic bobsled teams -- all to be piloted by a current or former National Guard member -- are ready for action this weekend. Army Sgt. John Napier of the Vermont National Guard, Army Sgt. Mike Kohn of the Virginia National Guard and Steven Holcomb, a former member of the Utah National Guard, resumed their training at Whistler Sliding Center here Feb. 17.
"This is amazing," said Napier, who is scheduled to drive USA II with Steve Langton aboard. "It feels great to be sliding again, especially on this track. It's so fast and so fun. I love driving here. It's one of the most incredible feelings to guide a sled down this course. I can't wait to do it again tomorrow."
Napier arrived in Canada on Feb. 8 and spent several days in Vancouver, where he attended the opening ceremonies for the XXI Olympic Winter Games. He said it made him yearn to become a lifelong Olympian.
On the eve of his return to a bobsled track, Napier discussed the pre-competitive Olympic experience.
"Fifteen years of hard work to get here," he said. "I told a lot of people I would go through 10 times the troubles and sufferings to make it to this point, now that I know what it's about. I was fighting for something before I really knew what it was and didn't know what it was for. But now I know.
"Now I've witnessed it, and I'm like, 'Man, I'm hungry to keep going more, too,'" Napier continued. "I want four more Olympics after this. Being here all week and seeing the atmosphere and all the help of the volunteers, and just to see how large of an operation it is and how small a piece of the puzzle we are, is kind of cool. The ceremony was the big point that really stood out and said, 'Wow, you've made it.'"
His brief time out of the sled, however, made Napier itch to get back to work.
"We need to be on ice; we're bobsledders," Napier said. "Being here and having to wait for several days was difficult, so it feels amazing being [at the track] tonight."
Kohn will drive USA III. "I love this track," he said. "I really feel like this track suits my driving style well. I'll be honest; I was a little nervous, but we're from the U.S., and we don't back down from a challenge.
"I had a lot of help from the coaches and the other drivers," Kohn added, "plus, Todd Hays shared some of his lines with me. This track isn't nearly as difficult as I thought. I just need to dial it in and iron a few things out."
Holcomb, the reigning four-man world champion, will drive USA I with Curt Tomasevicz aboard.
"This is fantastic," Holcomb said. "The ice is smooth and in great condition. It's what you expect Olympic ice to be. It feels so nice to be back on ice again, because we've been waiting around for 10 days for this moment. It's nice to get after it again."
The bobsledders will make two more training runs down the track today. Competition is set for two heats each tomorrow night and the afternoon of Feb. 21. The medal ceremony is scheduled at 7 p.m. PST Feb. 21.
(Tim Hipps works in the U.S. Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command public affairs office.)
Civil Affairs Teams Help Displaced Haitians
By Navy Lt. Arlo Abrahamson
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - Members of a U.S. special operations civil affairs team visited a sprawling tent city here yesterday as part of an effort to assess conditions in the camp and better align the delivery of food and medical aid. Civil affairs teams attached to the 82nd Airborne Division have been partnering with nongovernmental organizations, the United Nations and other relief agencies to ensure vital aid is being delivered to the people who are most in need.
"The assessments we make at this camp will be sent to other agencies and [organizations] who provide relief to the displaced people living here," said the leader of one team operating in the area, who asked not to be identified because he serves in special operations. "The reports we produce help keep these relief organizations better informed about the actual needs of the people."
Civil affairs specialists said their assessments in the camp are concentrated on community governance, medical conditions and security.
"It's important for us to actually go in these camps and get direct feedback from the people," the team leader said. "We find out there are things they do quite well as a community, despite the circumstances they're in, while in other areas they may need more assistance."
On any given day, that assistance may vary. A combat medic assigned to the team provided medical care to a Haitian girl who had fallen ill.
"I'm here to do medical assessments, but there's a point where you just have to help people when you see a need," the medic said. "It was a small gesture, but we did our part to make conditions better for people in this camp today."
(Navy Lt. Arlo Abrahamson serves in the Joint Forces Special Operations Component Command public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 19, 2010 - Members of a U.S. special operations civil affairs team visited a sprawling tent city here yesterday as part of an effort to assess conditions in the camp and better align the delivery of food and medical aid. Civil affairs teams attached to the 82nd Airborne Division have been partnering with nongovernmental organizations, the United Nations and other relief agencies to ensure vital aid is being delivered to the people who are most in need.
"The assessments we make at this camp will be sent to other agencies and [organizations] who provide relief to the displaced people living here," said the leader of one team operating in the area, who asked not to be identified because he serves in special operations. "The reports we produce help keep these relief organizations better informed about the actual needs of the people."
Civil affairs specialists said their assessments in the camp are concentrated on community governance, medical conditions and security.
"It's important for us to actually go in these camps and get direct feedback from the people," the team leader said. "We find out there are things they do quite well as a community, despite the circumstances they're in, while in other areas they may need more assistance."
On any given day, that assistance may vary. A combat medic assigned to the team provided medical care to a Haitian girl who had fallen ill.
"I'm here to do medical assessments, but there's a point where you just have to help people when you see a need," the medic said. "It was a small gesture, but we did our part to make conditions better for people in this camp today."
(Navy Lt. Arlo Abrahamson serves in the Joint Forces Special Operations Component Command public affairs office.)
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Leadership Book
Editor's Note: One of the co-authors is a former servicemember.
One reader of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style said, “I write police promotional textbook exams and assessments for a living [...]. I'm always seeking out new and cutting edge books in the fields of police supervision, management and leadership. So, I was very pleasantly surprised after I finished reading this unique leadership book. It presents an impressive amount of information on leadership in a fun and interesting format - with liberal use of relevant and humorous quotes, experiences and analogies. Your retention of the material will be extremely high because of the author's unique writing style and the attention-grabbing format. Both authors are highly qualified and experienced to present this material - but that's not the primary reason you should consider this book. If you are in law enforcement, entering law enforcement or looking to advance your law enforcement career, this book not only covers the basic leadership experience in a way that is lively and interesting, it makes you relate to and almost experience the hardcore, daily struggle all law enforcement supervisors and managers have with how to select, train and "grow" quality law enforcement personnel. It took a lot of guts to write a leadership book in such a unique format. And guts is what you'll need in Poker .. and in Leadership ... and this book, if nothing else, will make you see how you can embody these leadership skills.”
One reader of Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style said, “I write police promotional textbook exams and assessments for a living [...]. I'm always seeking out new and cutting edge books in the fields of police supervision, management and leadership. So, I was very pleasantly surprised after I finished reading this unique leadership book. It presents an impressive amount of information on leadership in a fun and interesting format - with liberal use of relevant and humorous quotes, experiences and analogies. Your retention of the material will be extremely high because of the author's unique writing style and the attention-grabbing format. Both authors are highly qualified and experienced to present this material - but that's not the primary reason you should consider this book. If you are in law enforcement, entering law enforcement or looking to advance your law enforcement career, this book not only covers the basic leadership experience in a way that is lively and interesting, it makes you relate to and almost experience the hardcore, daily struggle all law enforcement supervisors and managers have with how to select, train and "grow" quality law enforcement personnel. It took a lot of guts to write a leadership book in such a unique format. And guts is what you'll need in Poker .. and in Leadership ... and this book, if nothing else, will make you see how you can embody these leadership skills.”
Military Community Loses Pioneer
Feb. 18, 2010 - The first woman appointed to the rank of major general in the Air Force and the Department of Defense passed away Feb. 15. Retired Maj. Gen. Jeanne M. Holm was a driving force in achieving parity for military women and making them a viable part of the mainstream military. The Portland, Ore., native attained the rank of two-star general in 1973 after a career that began 31 years earlier in 1942 when she enlisted in the Army. Holm entered Women's Army Air Corps in January 1943, where she received a commission as third officer, the WAAC equivalent of second lieutenant.
Holm also became the first woman to attend the Air Command and Staff School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., in 1952.
She was promoted to brigadier general July 16, 1971, the first female airman to be appointed in this grade. She was promoted to the grade of major general effective June 1, 1973, with date of rank July 1, 1970 - the first woman in the armed forces to serve in that grade.
In recognition of Holm's pioneering career, Air Force officials renamed the Air Force Officer Accession and Training Schools at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Ala., the Jeanne M. Holm Officer Accession and Citizen Development Center in June 2008. Its mission is Air Force officer recruitment and training within the Air University.
Holm also authored two books about women in the military. "Women in the Military: An Unfinished Revolution" was published in 1982 and was updated in 1994. Four years later she wrote "In Defense of a Nation: Servicewomen in World War II."
During World War II, Holm was assigned to the Women's Army Corps Training Center at Fort Oglethorpe, Ga., where she commanded a basic training company and then a training regiment. At the end of the war, she commanded the 106th WAC Hospital Company at Newton D. Baker General Hospital, W.Va. She then left active military duty in 1946.
In October 1948 during the Berlin crisis, Holm was recalled to active duty with the Army and went to Camp Lee, Va., as a company commander. The following year she transferred to the Air Force, when a new law integrated women in the regular armed forces.
Holm served in a variety of personnel assignments, including director of Women in the Air Force from 1965 to 1973. She played a significant role in eliminating restrictions on numbers of women serving in all ranks, expanding job and duty station assignments for women, opening ROTC and service academies to women, and changing the policies on the status of women in the armed forces. During her tenure, policies affecting women were updated, WAF strength was more than doubled, job and assignment opportunities expanded, and uniforms modernized.
Holm retired in 1975. She served three presidential administrations: special assistant on women for President Gerald Ford, policy consultant for President Jimmy Carter, and first chairperson of the Veterans Administration's Committee on Women Veterans for President Ronald Reagan.
(Article courtesy of Air Force News Service.)
Air Force Sergeants Association, USAA announce affinity relationship
USAA is the preferred provider for property and casualty insurance products
February 18, 2010 - SAN ANTONIO – Nearly 128,000 enlisted Airmen and their eligible family members now are able to take advantage of one of the nation’s highest ranked* property and casualty insurance group of companies thanks to an agreement between the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) and USAA.
USAA, a leading financial services provider to the military community, is AFSA’s preferred provider of Property and Casualty products such as auto, home, condo, renters, umbrella, fire, and valuable personal property insurance.
“This is good news for AFSA and our members,” said AFSA CEO John R. “Doc” McCauslin. “USAA takes care of military members, and in many ways, our values and brand are alike. A number of AFSA members already have USAA insurance products and they will be elated that we married this up.”
For USAA, the agreement is a natural evolution of its ongoing effort to help facilitate the financial security of members of the U.S. military and their families.
“USAA and AFSA share a common military heritage and we operate according to the same high standards and core values, so joining forces makes perfect sense,” said retired Army Maj. Gen. Joe Robles, USAA’s president and CEO. “USAA provides products and services that are tailored to the unique needs of the military community. We’re eager to welcome Air Force enlisted members and their families.”
Those who want to learn more about USAA can call (800) 531-8722 or visit USAA.com. To learn more about AFSA membership, call (800) 638-0594 or visit www.hqafsa.org.
About AFSA
AFSA is the Air Force organization dedicated to all enlisted ranks—Air Force Active Duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves, including retirees, veterans and their family members. Members join AFSA for its well-respected ability to influence and educate legislators on how their decisions affect military members, their families, and their quality of life. Because the enlisted force: are well-educated decision makers; has a long and rich heritage of being the force behind the high-tech machinery; are the people who make procurement recommendations and assist in the research and development for tomorrow’s systems—the enlisted force has evolved over the years as the market of choice. For more information please contact AFSA toll-free at 1-800-638-0594 or 301-899-3500 and on the internet at www.hqafsa.org.
About USAA
USAA provides insurance, banking, investment and retirement products and services to 7.4 million members of the U.S. military and their families. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength. USAA membership is open to all who are serving or have honorably served our nation in the U.S. military – and their families. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.
USAA's property and casualty insurance companies received the highest possible ratings for financial strength from all three major ratings agencies — A.M. Best, Moody's and Standard & Poor's. A++ (Superior) from A.M. Best Co., highest of 16 possible ratings; Aaa (Exceptional) from Moody's Investors Service, highest of 21 possible ratings; AAA (Extremely Strong) from Standard & Poor's, highest of 21 possible ratings.
February 18, 2010 - SAN ANTONIO – Nearly 128,000 enlisted Airmen and their eligible family members now are able to take advantage of one of the nation’s highest ranked* property and casualty insurance group of companies thanks to an agreement between the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) and USAA.
USAA, a leading financial services provider to the military community, is AFSA’s preferred provider of Property and Casualty products such as auto, home, condo, renters, umbrella, fire, and valuable personal property insurance.
“This is good news for AFSA and our members,” said AFSA CEO John R. “Doc” McCauslin. “USAA takes care of military members, and in many ways, our values and brand are alike. A number of AFSA members already have USAA insurance products and they will be elated that we married this up.”
For USAA, the agreement is a natural evolution of its ongoing effort to help facilitate the financial security of members of the U.S. military and their families.
“USAA and AFSA share a common military heritage and we operate according to the same high standards and core values, so joining forces makes perfect sense,” said retired Army Maj. Gen. Joe Robles, USAA’s president and CEO. “USAA provides products and services that are tailored to the unique needs of the military community. We’re eager to welcome Air Force enlisted members and their families.”
Those who want to learn more about USAA can call (800) 531-8722 or visit USAA.com. To learn more about AFSA membership, call (800) 638-0594 or visit www.hqafsa.org.
About AFSA
AFSA is the Air Force organization dedicated to all enlisted ranks—Air Force Active Duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves, including retirees, veterans and their family members. Members join AFSA for its well-respected ability to influence and educate legislators on how their decisions affect military members, their families, and their quality of life. Because the enlisted force: are well-educated decision makers; has a long and rich heritage of being the force behind the high-tech machinery; are the people who make procurement recommendations and assist in the research and development for tomorrow’s systems—the enlisted force has evolved over the years as the market of choice. For more information please contact AFSA toll-free at 1-800-638-0594 or 301-899-3500 and on the internet at www.hqafsa.org.
About USAA
USAA provides insurance, banking, investment and retirement products and services to 7.4 million members of the U.S. military and their families. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength. USAA membership is open to all who are serving or have honorably served our nation in the U.S. military – and their families. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.
USAA's property and casualty insurance companies received the highest possible ratings for financial strength from all three major ratings agencies — A.M. Best, Moody's and Standard & Poor's. A++ (Superior) from A.M. Best Co., highest of 16 possible ratings; Aaa (Exceptional) from Moody's Investors Service, highest of 21 possible ratings; AAA (Extremely Strong) from Standard & Poor's, highest of 21 possible ratings.
Spring to Mark Start of Personnel System Transition
By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 18, 2010 - The Defense Department is on track to transition the majority of its more than 220,000 civilian employees out of the National Security Personnel System by Sept. 30, more than a year ahead of deadline, the official heading up that transition said today. The 2010 National Defense Authorization Act called for the termination of NSPS by January 2012, bringing an end to a controversial personnel system that's been operational for less than four years.
The majority of employees will transition -- starting this spring -- back to the decades-old General Schedule system, but with an assurance in regard to pay.
"I am committed to ensure, as directed in the National Defense Authorization Act, that employees experience no loss of, or decrease in, pay upon conversion," said John James, Jr., director of the Pentagon's NSPS transition office. "The department believes in that and believes it is the right thing to do."
This preservation of pay encompasses all employees. For instance, NSPS employees who are paid a salary that exceeds Step 10 -- the highest step under the GS system -- of their pay grade will retain their pay upon conversion, James explained.
An employee's grade upon conversion will be determined by classification specialists using the same criteria in use for GS employees, James said.
"An employee's position will be evaluated under the General Schedule system and classified," he said. "If that position classifies out as a GS-13, then that employee will become a 13 when they transition."
While the Defense Department has a goal for transition completion, James noted that each organization and component will make a determination on a timeline based on four factors:
-- No undue interruption to mission or hardship to employees;
-- Established processes to classify NSPS positions into the appropriate non-NSPS system;
-- Existence of a legacy performance management system; and
-- An information technology system capable of handling the transition.
As officials work to ensure a smooth transition, they also are turning an eye to the road ahead. Along with terminating NSPS, the act gives the Defense Department new authorities to look at developing a successor performance management system that incorporates the best practices of NSPS and GS.
"One of the best advantages under NSPS that we saw was the clear alignment between employees and the organization about what their contribution means to the priorities and the direction of the organization," James said. "As we develop the new authorities and transition employees to the GS system, in most cases, we plan to reinforce that directive and that effort to ensure the employees are aligned with the organization."
Officials also will examine the law's requirements for hiring flexibilities and a personnel performance fund that rewards employees or teams for their performance, he said.
These processes will continue to be open and transparent, James vowed. "I envision the transition and development and use of the new authorities to be a collaborative effort with supervisors, management, leadership, union partners, labor partners, the Office of Personnel Management and other stakeholders. I see this as being an entirely inclusive process."
James emphasized the importance of communication throughout the transition process and future personnel system modifications. "You can't overcommunicate a change," he said.
To that end, the NSPS Web site, http://www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/, now includes transition updates and a training module called GS 101, he said.
"Employees who have never been in the GS system, and there are a few, can go in and walk through that," James said. "It really is informative and tells them how the GS system works." It's also of value to employees who were in the system before, he added.
James encouraged employees to continue to ask questions. "Employees should feel free to ask their chain of command about how that process is being implemented," he said. "GS is very prescriptive in how the process works. They will be informed how their job will be classified and transitioned."
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 18, 2010 - The Defense Department is on track to transition the majority of its more than 220,000 civilian employees out of the National Security Personnel System by Sept. 30, more than a year ahead of deadline, the official heading up that transition said today. The 2010 National Defense Authorization Act called for the termination of NSPS by January 2012, bringing an end to a controversial personnel system that's been operational for less than four years.
The majority of employees will transition -- starting this spring -- back to the decades-old General Schedule system, but with an assurance in regard to pay.
"I am committed to ensure, as directed in the National Defense Authorization Act, that employees experience no loss of, or decrease in, pay upon conversion," said John James, Jr., director of the Pentagon's NSPS transition office. "The department believes in that and believes it is the right thing to do."
This preservation of pay encompasses all employees. For instance, NSPS employees who are paid a salary that exceeds Step 10 -- the highest step under the GS system -- of their pay grade will retain their pay upon conversion, James explained.
An employee's grade upon conversion will be determined by classification specialists using the same criteria in use for GS employees, James said.
"An employee's position will be evaluated under the General Schedule system and classified," he said. "If that position classifies out as a GS-13, then that employee will become a 13 when they transition."
While the Defense Department has a goal for transition completion, James noted that each organization and component will make a determination on a timeline based on four factors:
-- No undue interruption to mission or hardship to employees;
-- Established processes to classify NSPS positions into the appropriate non-NSPS system;
-- Existence of a legacy performance management system; and
-- An information technology system capable of handling the transition.
As officials work to ensure a smooth transition, they also are turning an eye to the road ahead. Along with terminating NSPS, the act gives the Defense Department new authorities to look at developing a successor performance management system that incorporates the best practices of NSPS and GS.
"One of the best advantages under NSPS that we saw was the clear alignment between employees and the organization about what their contribution means to the priorities and the direction of the organization," James said. "As we develop the new authorities and transition employees to the GS system, in most cases, we plan to reinforce that directive and that effort to ensure the employees are aligned with the organization."
Officials also will examine the law's requirements for hiring flexibilities and a personnel performance fund that rewards employees or teams for their performance, he said.
These processes will continue to be open and transparent, James vowed. "I envision the transition and development and use of the new authorities to be a collaborative effort with supervisors, management, leadership, union partners, labor partners, the Office of Personnel Management and other stakeholders. I see this as being an entirely inclusive process."
James emphasized the importance of communication throughout the transition process and future personnel system modifications. "You can't overcommunicate a change," he said.
To that end, the NSPS Web site, http://www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/, now includes transition updates and a training module called GS 101, he said.
"Employees who have never been in the GS system, and there are a few, can go in and walk through that," James said. "It really is informative and tells them how the GS system works." It's also of value to employees who were in the system before, he added.
James encouraged employees to continue to ask questions. "Employees should feel free to ask their chain of command about how that process is being implemented," he said. "GS is very prescriptive in how the process works. They will be informed how their job will be classified and transitioned."
Defense Department Pauses Spouse Employment Program
By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 18, 2010 - The Defense Department has temporarily halted a popular employment assistance program for military spouses while it conducts a "top-to-bottom" review of its services, officials said today. The My Spouse Career Advancement Account program, also known as MyCAA, offers military spouses opportunities to pursue portable careers in high-demand, high-growth occupations such as education and health care.
"We recognize that the military lifestyle calls for portable careers, and that military spouses need access to education and training for careers that are portable and high-growth nationally," said Tommy T. Thomas, deputy under secretary of defense for the Pentagon's office of military community and family policy. "This short-term break will allow us to better assess the program to ensure we are achieving that goal."
Officials said they will use the time to review procedures, financial assistance documents and the program in general. The review was prompted by a need to ensure the program is meeting its intent, which is to provide spouses with additional opportunities for portable careers.
Military spouses who already have been approved for financial assistance won't be affected, and spouses who have an account can continue to use the Web site for career counseling and planning, officials said. However, during this review time, spouses won't be able to create a new account and new applications won't be accepted.
The review will be conducted as quickly as possible, officials said, while still ensuring a comprehensive look at the program.
Nearly 133,000 military spouses have applied for the program since it launched last March, officials said. To date, about 98,000 spouses are enrolled in courses or have been approved for financial assistance.
The program offers spouses assistance with training, job readiness and employment and career services. Through the program, spouses can receive financial assistance to pursue education and training, free career counseling and access to military-friendly employers.
During the review process, officials encourage spouses to explore other government options such as the transfer of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other programs available on installation and program Web sites. Spouses also can visit Military OneSource, http://www.militaryonesource.com, for free consultations on education and training, career exploration, assessment, employment readiness and career-search assistance.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 18, 2010 - The Defense Department has temporarily halted a popular employment assistance program for military spouses while it conducts a "top-to-bottom" review of its services, officials said today. The My Spouse Career Advancement Account program, also known as MyCAA, offers military spouses opportunities to pursue portable careers in high-demand, high-growth occupations such as education and health care.
"We recognize that the military lifestyle calls for portable careers, and that military spouses need access to education and training for careers that are portable and high-growth nationally," said Tommy T. Thomas, deputy under secretary of defense for the Pentagon's office of military community and family policy. "This short-term break will allow us to better assess the program to ensure we are achieving that goal."
Officials said they will use the time to review procedures, financial assistance documents and the program in general. The review was prompted by a need to ensure the program is meeting its intent, which is to provide spouses with additional opportunities for portable careers.
Military spouses who already have been approved for financial assistance won't be affected, and spouses who have an account can continue to use the Web site for career counseling and planning, officials said. However, during this review time, spouses won't be able to create a new account and new applications won't be accepted.
The review will be conducted as quickly as possible, officials said, while still ensuring a comprehensive look at the program.
Nearly 133,000 military spouses have applied for the program since it launched last March, officials said. To date, about 98,000 spouses are enrolled in courses or have been approved for financial assistance.
The program offers spouses assistance with training, job readiness and employment and career services. Through the program, spouses can receive financial assistance to pursue education and training, free career counseling and access to military-friendly employers.
During the review process, officials encourage spouses to explore other government options such as the transfer of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other programs available on installation and program Web sites. Spouses also can visit Military OneSource, http://www.militaryonesource.com, for free consultations on education and training, career exploration, assessment, employment readiness and career-search assistance.
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