Sunday, April 18, 2010
Statement by Secretary Robert M. Gates
The New York Times sources who revealed my January memo to the National Security Advisor mischaracterized its purpose and content. With the Administration's pivot to a pressure track on Iran earlier this year, the memo identified next steps in our defense planning process where further interagency discussion and policy decisions would be needed in the months and weeks ahead. The memo was not intended as a "wake up call" or received as such by the President's national security team. Rather, it presented a number of questions and proposals intended to contribute to an orderly and timely decision making process. There should be no confusion by our allies and adversaries that the United States is properly and energetically focused on this question and prepared to act across a broad range of contingencies in support of our interests.
Decommissioned Battleship USS Wisconsin (BB-64) Relieved of Duty
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Scott Pittman, Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East
April 18, 2010 - NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The city of Norfolk officially took over stewardship of the decommissioned Iowa-class battleship, USS Wisconsin (BB-64), during a ceremony at The National Maritime Center on April 16.
The ceremony took place 65 years after the ship was first commissioned into naval service April 16, 1944.
"As we incrementally open up this Navy icon for public viewing, it will be our awesome responsibility to bring this grand ship's history to life," said Hank Lynch, Executive Director of Nauticus.
Wisconsin has been berthed at Nauticus, a maritime-themed science center, since Dec. 7, 2000, but still maintained by the Navy until this ceremony. As part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2006, battleships must be maintained in case it must be recommissioned for Navy usage. Transfer of the ship to Norfolk ends that requirement for the Wisconsin. The Navy had paid approximately $2.8 million to the city of Norfolk to maintain the ship between 2000-2009.
Audio tours lead guests through decks of the ship to demonstrate the workings of one of the Navy's last and largest battleships.
"Our responsibility is to preserve and protect your ship; to insure that your legacy of duty, honor and country endures and inspires future generations of Americans," said Paul D. Fraim, Mayor of Norfolk.
Several former crew members were in attendance for the ceremony, along with distinguished guests and active duty Sailors.
Wisconsin served in Adm. William F. Halsey's 3rd Fleet during the liberation of the Philippines, supported the amphibious landings on Iwo Jima and Okinawa and transported GIs back to the United States during Operation Magic Carpet at the end of World War II.
April 18, 2010 - NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The city of Norfolk officially took over stewardship of the decommissioned Iowa-class battleship, USS Wisconsin (BB-64), during a ceremony at The National Maritime Center on April 16.
The ceremony took place 65 years after the ship was first commissioned into naval service April 16, 1944.
"As we incrementally open up this Navy icon for public viewing, it will be our awesome responsibility to bring this grand ship's history to life," said Hank Lynch, Executive Director of Nauticus.
Wisconsin has been berthed at Nauticus, a maritime-themed science center, since Dec. 7, 2000, but still maintained by the Navy until this ceremony. As part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2006, battleships must be maintained in case it must be recommissioned for Navy usage. Transfer of the ship to Norfolk ends that requirement for the Wisconsin. The Navy had paid approximately $2.8 million to the city of Norfolk to maintain the ship between 2000-2009.
Audio tours lead guests through decks of the ship to demonstrate the workings of one of the Navy's last and largest battleships.
"Our responsibility is to preserve and protect your ship; to insure that your legacy of duty, honor and country endures and inspires future generations of Americans," said Paul D. Fraim, Mayor of Norfolk.
Several former crew members were in attendance for the ceremony, along with distinguished guests and active duty Sailors.
Wisconsin served in Adm. William F. Halsey's 3rd Fleet during the liberation of the Philippines, supported the amphibious landings on Iwo Jima and Okinawa and transported GIs back to the United States during Operation Magic Carpet at the end of World War II.
Sailors Visit Children During San Antonio Navy Week
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist L.A. Shively, Navy Office of Community Outreach
April 18, 2010 - SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- Navy units around San Antonio visited children and teens as part as San Antonio Navy Week, which started April 14.
Sailors from Navy Recruiting District (NRD) San Antonio delivered ball caps, toy bears and told sea stories brightening the rainy morning for several children and their families at Christus Santa Rosa Children's Hospital, as part of the Caps for Kids program.
Later in the afternoon, conversation about school and the future mingled with laughter and music at the Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio, where Sailors from NRD, Naval Medical Research Unit - San Antonio (NMRUSA), and Naval Medical Training Command (NMTC), Ft. Sam Houston, visited teens at the teen center.
"I was surprised" said 13-year-old Venus Perez who admitted never seeing a Sailor in uniform before.
Traditionally San Antonio has been an Army and Air Force town, but with the opening of the Medical Education and Training Center on Ft. Sam Houston, an influx of several thousand Sailors is expected to continue over the next two years.
Now that she's met several Sailors, Perez said she liked the Navy, but was leaning toward basketball. Several teens said they were surprised that careers in flying and music were available in the Navy.
"I think it's a wonderful thing," said Chief Hospital Corpsman Ferdinand Ajel, who is currently with NMTC. He said visiting teens was also surprising for him.
"At first I didn't know what we were going to do," he thought he was volunteering to build or paint – a more typical project. "I like that we can interact with the kids."
He said he talked about traveling and seeing places outside of his hometown as a Sailor and that the time he spent with these teens will help him at home.
"I have to talk to my own kids too. They are going to be real-life stories and that's what we've got going on here. I'm finding ways to reach [teens at the center] and it will be good for my own family," Ajel said.
Coming into the community and seeing Sailors gives kids an opportunity to think about their options in life said Capt. Vincent DeInnocentiis, commanding officer for NMRUSA.
"It helps them know they can do anything they want to do and that the Navy is an option. They don't have to stay in one place or listen to others telling them they can't do this or that."
A lot of us came from similar backgrounds DeInnocentiis stressed, and bringing Sailors into the community shows kids they can get an education and grow up to be somebody.
After visiting with teens, Sailors then spent the afternoon playing games with the younger set at the nearby game center.
Raucous squeals of delight erupted when a basket ball dropped into a hoop, or a foosball slammed into the goal, and it didn't matter what the score or who was winning.
Everyone was excited and enjoying each other's company simply playing carpet bowling, hoops or video games.
"[Play] helps put you in the moment instead of [worrying] about the future all the time," said Capt. R.G. Craigmiles, commanding officer of NMTC.
"It helps development. It also helps them interact with other human beings. Most importantly, it teaches teamwork and cooperation – everything you need to succeed."
April 18, 2010 - SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- Navy units around San Antonio visited children and teens as part as San Antonio Navy Week, which started April 14.
Sailors from Navy Recruiting District (NRD) San Antonio delivered ball caps, toy bears and told sea stories brightening the rainy morning for several children and their families at Christus Santa Rosa Children's Hospital, as part of the Caps for Kids program.
Later in the afternoon, conversation about school and the future mingled with laughter and music at the Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio, where Sailors from NRD, Naval Medical Research Unit - San Antonio (NMRUSA), and Naval Medical Training Command (NMTC), Ft. Sam Houston, visited teens at the teen center.
"I was surprised" said 13-year-old Venus Perez who admitted never seeing a Sailor in uniform before.
Traditionally San Antonio has been an Army and Air Force town, but with the opening of the Medical Education and Training Center on Ft. Sam Houston, an influx of several thousand Sailors is expected to continue over the next two years.
Now that she's met several Sailors, Perez said she liked the Navy, but was leaning toward basketball. Several teens said they were surprised that careers in flying and music were available in the Navy.
"I think it's a wonderful thing," said Chief Hospital Corpsman Ferdinand Ajel, who is currently with NMTC. He said visiting teens was also surprising for him.
"At first I didn't know what we were going to do," he thought he was volunteering to build or paint – a more typical project. "I like that we can interact with the kids."
He said he talked about traveling and seeing places outside of his hometown as a Sailor and that the time he spent with these teens will help him at home.
"I have to talk to my own kids too. They are going to be real-life stories and that's what we've got going on here. I'm finding ways to reach [teens at the center] and it will be good for my own family," Ajel said.
Coming into the community and seeing Sailors gives kids an opportunity to think about their options in life said Capt. Vincent DeInnocentiis, commanding officer for NMRUSA.
"It helps them know they can do anything they want to do and that the Navy is an option. They don't have to stay in one place or listen to others telling them they can't do this or that."
A lot of us came from similar backgrounds DeInnocentiis stressed, and bringing Sailors into the community shows kids they can get an education and grow up to be somebody.
After visiting with teens, Sailors then spent the afternoon playing games with the younger set at the nearby game center.
Raucous squeals of delight erupted when a basket ball dropped into a hoop, or a foosball slammed into the goal, and it didn't matter what the score or who was winning.
Everyone was excited and enjoying each other's company simply playing carpet bowling, hoops or video games.
"[Play] helps put you in the moment instead of [worrying] about the future all the time," said Capt. R.G. Craigmiles, commanding officer of NMTC.
"It helps development. It also helps them interact with other human beings. Most importantly, it teaches teamwork and cooperation – everything you need to succeed."
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Confessions of a Black Conservative
Editor's Note: The guest is a former servicemember.
On April 23, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with former US Army Soldier Lloyd Marcus, the author of Confessions of a Black Conservative.
Program Date: April 23, 2010
Program Time: 2100 hours Pacific
Topic: Confessions of a Black Conservative
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/04/24/confessions-of-a-black-conservative
About the Guest
Lloyd Marcus “was drafted almost immediately and served two years in the Army. Although he didn’t quit his hedonistic lifestyle, he found outlets for his creativity while serving at Fort Bragg, N.C. He designed artwork for Army brochures and, despite not being a Green Beret, he sang first tenor in the Green Beret chorus.” Lloyd Marcus is the author of Confessions of a Black Conservative.
According to the book description of Confessions of a Black Conservative, “Lloyd Marcus, (black) Unhyphenated American, Tea Party Spokesperson and Troubadour, releases his much anticipated book; Confessions of a Black Conservative: How the Left has shattered the dreams of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black America. Mr. Marcus travels extensively singing his originals, American Tea Party Anthem and Twenty Ten, Vote Them Out to thousands in audiences across America. At each event Marcus receives raucous applause for his signature statement, “I am NOT an African American, I am Lloyd Marcus, AMERICAN.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/04/24/confessions-of-a-black-conservative
Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/confessions_black_conservative.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
On April 23, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with former US Army Soldier Lloyd Marcus, the author of Confessions of a Black Conservative.
Program Date: April 23, 2010
Program Time: 2100 hours Pacific
Topic: Confessions of a Black Conservative
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/04/24/confessions-of-a-black-conservative
About the Guest
Lloyd Marcus “was drafted almost immediately and served two years in the Army. Although he didn’t quit his hedonistic lifestyle, he found outlets for his creativity while serving at Fort Bragg, N.C. He designed artwork for Army brochures and, despite not being a Green Beret, he sang first tenor in the Green Beret chorus.” Lloyd Marcus is the author of Confessions of a Black Conservative.
According to the book description of Confessions of a Black Conservative, “Lloyd Marcus, (black) Unhyphenated American, Tea Party Spokesperson and Troubadour, releases his much anticipated book; Confessions of a Black Conservative: How the Left has shattered the dreams of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black America. Mr. Marcus travels extensively singing his originals, American Tea Party Anthem and Twenty Ten, Vote Them Out to thousands in audiences across America. At each event Marcus receives raucous applause for his signature statement, “I am NOT an African American, I am Lloyd Marcus, AMERICAN.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/04/24/confessions-of-a-black-conservative
Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/confessions_black_conservative.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
National Naval Medical Center Promotes STD Prevention, Education
By Sarah Fortney, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs
April 17, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- In light of staggering statistics dealing with the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), April is STD Awareness Month and health care providers are raising awareness about the consequences of unprotected sex and the impact STDs have on overall health.
An estimated 19 million new cases of STDs are reported in the U.S. every year, almost half of which are among people under age 25, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
At the National Naval Medical Center, health care practitioners educate service members and patients about STDs not just during the month of April, but throughout the year. In the Infectious Diseases clinic, providers help patients identify modes of treatment and offer referrals for treatment, said Lynn Johnson, a counselor in the Infectious Diseases clinic.
Johnson, who gives weekly lectures in the OB/GYN clinic, said the Infectious Diseases Clinic also provides counseling for patients who have contracted an STD, noting it is more common today for people who have contracted an STD to have more than one at a time.
Those who seek treatment for an STD are often, but not always, found to be engaging in risky lifestyles and, therefore, might need counseling for an underlying mental health issue. Johnson added that alcohol and drug use are also common factors in the equation, as they alter a person's sense of security and impair judgment. He encourages individuals to recognize these factors and to practice safe sex.
"Get to know your partner, and don't let emotions get in the way," Johnson said. "You are responsible for your actions."
At NNMC, he said, health practitioners see patients with various types of STDs, but there are a few that seem to be more prevalent.
"Chlamydia is the most common STD we see, then gonorrhea, then syphilis," he said.
Unlike gonorrhea and syphilis, which are associated with symptoms that are painful and discomforting, symptoms of chlamydia are usually mild or absent, he said. Thus, many individuals who have the disease may not know they have it and are likely to continue spreading it.
According to the CDC, chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in the country, especially among young women. It can potentially cause damage to their reproductive organs, infertility and pregnancy complications.
Johnson added that people who have contracted an STD are at an increased risk of becoming HIV positive. Those who are sexually active in the D.C. area should be especially cautious, as the area has the highest number of people infected with HIV in the country, he said.
In the military, he said, there is a common misconception that service members are "safe" against STDs when, in fact, they are just as at risk and should be just as careful.
In the Navy, Sailors are required to be tested for HIV every two years, but are not limited to that requirement – they can be tested more often if they so choose.
April 17, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- In light of staggering statistics dealing with the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), April is STD Awareness Month and health care providers are raising awareness about the consequences of unprotected sex and the impact STDs have on overall health.
An estimated 19 million new cases of STDs are reported in the U.S. every year, almost half of which are among people under age 25, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
At the National Naval Medical Center, health care practitioners educate service members and patients about STDs not just during the month of April, but throughout the year. In the Infectious Diseases clinic, providers help patients identify modes of treatment and offer referrals for treatment, said Lynn Johnson, a counselor in the Infectious Diseases clinic.
Johnson, who gives weekly lectures in the OB/GYN clinic, said the Infectious Diseases Clinic also provides counseling for patients who have contracted an STD, noting it is more common today for people who have contracted an STD to have more than one at a time.
Those who seek treatment for an STD are often, but not always, found to be engaging in risky lifestyles and, therefore, might need counseling for an underlying mental health issue. Johnson added that alcohol and drug use are also common factors in the equation, as they alter a person's sense of security and impair judgment. He encourages individuals to recognize these factors and to practice safe sex.
"Get to know your partner, and don't let emotions get in the way," Johnson said. "You are responsible for your actions."
At NNMC, he said, health practitioners see patients with various types of STDs, but there are a few that seem to be more prevalent.
"Chlamydia is the most common STD we see, then gonorrhea, then syphilis," he said.
Unlike gonorrhea and syphilis, which are associated with symptoms that are painful and discomforting, symptoms of chlamydia are usually mild or absent, he said. Thus, many individuals who have the disease may not know they have it and are likely to continue spreading it.
According to the CDC, chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in the country, especially among young women. It can potentially cause damage to their reproductive organs, infertility and pregnancy complications.
Johnson added that people who have contracted an STD are at an increased risk of becoming HIV positive. Those who are sexually active in the D.C. area should be especially cautious, as the area has the highest number of people infected with HIV in the country, he said.
In the military, he said, there is a common misconception that service members are "safe" against STDs when, in fact, they are just as at risk and should be just as careful.
In the Navy, Sailors are required to be tested for HIV every two years, but are not limited to that requirement – they can be tested more often if they so choose.
Navy Region Southeast Raises Sexual Assault Awareness
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Monica R. Nelson, Commander, Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs
April 17, 2010 - JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Commander, Navy Region Southeast underscored the region's initiatives against sexual assault by signing a Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) proclamation Apr. 15.
Rear. Adm. Townsend "Tim" Alexander signed the proclamation while the Region's Executive Director Bruce Cwalina and nine members of the Southeast Region's family readiness program looked on.
"This proclamation is a springboard for education and awareness," said Alexander. "Effort from every individual is necessary to ensure safety and quality of life for our shipmates and in our communities. Sexual assault is an affront to mission readiness because it undermines the health and dignity of individuals. The well-being of the Navy is dependent upon the well-being of its people. I urge all personnel to reach out to victims, learn more about this crime, speak out against it, and intervene to prevent it."
According to Commander, Navy Installations Command, the Navy recorded approximately 600 reports of sexual assault in fiscal year 2009. A sexual assault is an attack that can reverberate throughout a unit and beyond, degrading readiness by harming the life of the victim and the ability of a unit to work effectively as a team.
"This is a pivotal time in Navy history surrounding sexual assault awareness and prevention, with the highest level of attention from Navy leadership on the issue that I have seen in my 10 years experience working for the Navy," said Julie Mooney, Southeast Region credentialing and programs manager. "Leadership and those on the front lines working in sexual assault prevention and response have called for a culture change within the Navy where sexual intimidation, harassment and assault are not tolerated."
Alexander's proclamation echoes the Department of Defense 2010 SAAM theme of "Hurts one. Affects all."
Installations within the Southeast are already responding by hosting leadership training, 5k walk/runs, setting up information booths and conducting training in civilian sexual assault and rape crisis centers.
April 17, 2010 - JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Commander, Navy Region Southeast underscored the region's initiatives against sexual assault by signing a Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) proclamation Apr. 15.
Rear. Adm. Townsend "Tim" Alexander signed the proclamation while the Region's Executive Director Bruce Cwalina and nine members of the Southeast Region's family readiness program looked on.
"This proclamation is a springboard for education and awareness," said Alexander. "Effort from every individual is necessary to ensure safety and quality of life for our shipmates and in our communities. Sexual assault is an affront to mission readiness because it undermines the health and dignity of individuals. The well-being of the Navy is dependent upon the well-being of its people. I urge all personnel to reach out to victims, learn more about this crime, speak out against it, and intervene to prevent it."
According to Commander, Navy Installations Command, the Navy recorded approximately 600 reports of sexual assault in fiscal year 2009. A sexual assault is an attack that can reverberate throughout a unit and beyond, degrading readiness by harming the life of the victim and the ability of a unit to work effectively as a team.
"This is a pivotal time in Navy history surrounding sexual assault awareness and prevention, with the highest level of attention from Navy leadership on the issue that I have seen in my 10 years experience working for the Navy," said Julie Mooney, Southeast Region credentialing and programs manager. "Leadership and those on the front lines working in sexual assault prevention and response have called for a culture change within the Navy where sexual intimidation, harassment and assault are not tolerated."
Alexander's proclamation echoes the Department of Defense 2010 SAAM theme of "Hurts one. Affects all."
Installations within the Southeast are already responding by hosting leadership training, 5k walk/runs, setting up information booths and conducting training in civilian sexual assault and rape crisis centers.
Military Networking Key to Eliminating HIV/AIDS: Hormazd Sethna
Hormazd Sethna is a desk officer for countries in the US Pacific Command region, including India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. This is the third blog post in a series written from the 2010 International HIV/AIDS Conference in Tanzania.
April 17, 2010 - I joined the Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP) in February 2009 as a desk officer for countries in the US Pacific Command (USPACOM) region. I came to DHAPP with a background in medical anthropology and public health, and some experience working on HIV/AIDS projects, both in the U.S., as well as my native India.
My first reaction to seeing the job posting for DHAPP was, “What does the U.S. Department of Defense have to do with HIV prevention?”, followed quickly by, “Why would they want to hire a civilian like me, whose military experience extends only as far as being a fan of the television show ‘MASH’?”
As I learned, HIV/AIDS poses a threat to militaries as much as, if not more so, than the civilian population. This, in turn, poses a threat to national security.
DHAPP plays a leadership role in working with the militaries of over eighty countries across the globe to eliminate this threat by developing and strengthening sustainable programs in prevention, care, and treatment. These programs form the cornerstone of military-to-military diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and the militaries of the host countries. Militaries also often serve as a change agent for the broader society, so it stands to reason that they are actively involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
My duties as desk officer have extended me the privilege of traveling to countries like Indonesia and Laos to assess their military HIV/AIDS programs and work with them in developing strategies to strengthen these programs and ensure their sustainability. I have also attended an international conference in Botswana, and collaborated with U.S. Government colleagues at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in providing technical assistance in HIV prevention to civilian and military partners in Kenya.
That’s a lot of frequent flyer miles!
I write this blog from Arusha, Tanzania where DHAPP has organized the Third Annual International Military HIV/AIDS Conference. The Tanzania People’s Defense Force (TPDF) is playing host to delegates from over sixty countries, including India, Indonesia, Nepal and Vietnam from the USPACOM area of responsibility. In addition. the guest list also boasts invitees from the Combatant Commands, the Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, the United Nations Joint Program on HIV/AIDS, and (drum roll please!) the President of Tanzania, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete.
The level of seriousness with which militaries view the HIV/AIDS threat is demonstrated by the attendee list. Flag officers, heads of military medical services, and directors of HIV/AIDS services are all in attendance, using the opportunity to share their expertise, ideas, and best practices with each other.
April 17, 2010 - I joined the Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP) in February 2009 as a desk officer for countries in the US Pacific Command (USPACOM) region. I came to DHAPP with a background in medical anthropology and public health, and some experience working on HIV/AIDS projects, both in the U.S., as well as my native India.
My first reaction to seeing the job posting for DHAPP was, “What does the U.S. Department of Defense have to do with HIV prevention?”, followed quickly by, “Why would they want to hire a civilian like me, whose military experience extends only as far as being a fan of the television show ‘MASH’?”
As I learned, HIV/AIDS poses a threat to militaries as much as, if not more so, than the civilian population. This, in turn, poses a threat to national security.
DHAPP plays a leadership role in working with the militaries of over eighty countries across the globe to eliminate this threat by developing and strengthening sustainable programs in prevention, care, and treatment. These programs form the cornerstone of military-to-military diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and the militaries of the host countries. Militaries also often serve as a change agent for the broader society, so it stands to reason that they are actively involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
My duties as desk officer have extended me the privilege of traveling to countries like Indonesia and Laos to assess their military HIV/AIDS programs and work with them in developing strategies to strengthen these programs and ensure their sustainability. I have also attended an international conference in Botswana, and collaborated with U.S. Government colleagues at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in providing technical assistance in HIV prevention to civilian and military partners in Kenya.
That’s a lot of frequent flyer miles!
I write this blog from Arusha, Tanzania where DHAPP has organized the Third Annual International Military HIV/AIDS Conference. The Tanzania People’s Defense Force (TPDF) is playing host to delegates from over sixty countries, including India, Indonesia, Nepal and Vietnam from the USPACOM area of responsibility. In addition. the guest list also boasts invitees from the Combatant Commands, the Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, the United Nations Joint Program on HIV/AIDS, and (drum roll please!) the President of Tanzania, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete.
The level of seriousness with which militaries view the HIV/AIDS threat is demonstrated by the attendee list. Flag officers, heads of military medical services, and directors of HIV/AIDS services are all in attendance, using the opportunity to share their expertise, ideas, and best practices with each other.
National Naval Medical Center to Conduct Alcohol Screening
By Sarah Fortney, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs
April 17, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The National Naval Medical Center's (NNMC) Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP) and Health Promotion/Wellness Clinic will conduct a free, command-wide alcohol screening Apr. 19-21.
This screening will help individuals assess how well they know the affects of alcohol and help them understand the signs of a drinking problem.
During the screening, which will take place Monday through Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the hallway outside of the morale, welfare and recreation office, counselors will be available to answer questions and provide information. Private booths will be set up for individuals to fill out an anonymous questionnaire about their drinking habits and how alcohol affects their health.
Every year, SARP aims to conduct this command-wide alcohol screening in April as part of Alcohol Awareness Month, said Chief Operations Specialist Sharon Rogers, senior enlisted leader directorate for mental health at NNMC. The questionnaire will help people learn about alcohol consumption and better understand how it affects their overall health.
According to Rogers, the screening is an opportunity to reach out to individuals who might be struggling with alcohol and help them recognize the potential consequences before their drinking becomes a problem, be it violence, an injury or a drunk driving charge.
"We're here to help them," Rogers said.
Alcohol use disorders include alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence; and alcohol abuse, characterized by significant impairment but not necessarily physical dependence, according to Military Pathways, a voluntary mental health and alcohol self assessment program for military service members and their families. Through Defense Department funding, the program created the questionnaire that will be used at NNMC next week.
In addition, both alcohol abuse and dependence are more common among men than women and decrease with aging, according to Military Pathways.
Alcoholism is characterized by a number of symptoms. Rogers said one indication of a problem is when a person's alcohol tolerance increases. For example, when a person who usually drinks four beers suddenly needs eight beers to feel satisfied.
The signs to look for, Rogers said, are when drinking impacts a person's lifestyle, work, or family and they're not able to function normally.
It's important for people to understand their "alcohol IQ," she said - being able to identify the warning signs and recognize their drinking habits.
"If you drink an excessive amount [of alcohol], do you know how it will affect your health?" Rogers asked.
"We know about our other health [problems], blood pressure, cholesterol, but we hardly ever think about our drinking," said Shellie Spadaro, SARP department head and counselor.
SARP offers a variety of services to help people coping with alcohol disorders or who have been in trouble because of an incident related to alcohol, Spadaro said. SARP counselors assess individuals with potential drinking problems and work closely with the command drug and alcohol program advisor and the hospital wards.
The program also has a continuing care group for those who have been diagnosed with alcohol dependence, she said, and an early intervention class for those who have not been diagnosed with alcohol dependence or alcohol abuse, but have gotten in trouble because of alcohol.
For the first time, SARP is working with NNMC's Health Promotion/Wellness Clinic to conduct the command-wide screening.
"We're really excited about it," said Lauren Thomas, department head of the Health Promotion/ Wellness Clinic.
The department promotes health, fitness, nutrition, stress management and tobacco cessation, Thomas said, and has been focusing more on educating staff about the affects of drinking, making it a more comprehensive program.
With the screening, she added, individuals are able to be proactive and seek treatment before they begin to suffer the consequences.
"Don't wait until it's on your record," she said. "We want to help identify the risks of problem drinking ahead of time."
April 17, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The National Naval Medical Center's (NNMC) Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP) and Health Promotion/Wellness Clinic will conduct a free, command-wide alcohol screening Apr. 19-21.
This screening will help individuals assess how well they know the affects of alcohol and help them understand the signs of a drinking problem.
During the screening, which will take place Monday through Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the hallway outside of the morale, welfare and recreation office, counselors will be available to answer questions and provide information. Private booths will be set up for individuals to fill out an anonymous questionnaire about their drinking habits and how alcohol affects their health.
Every year, SARP aims to conduct this command-wide alcohol screening in April as part of Alcohol Awareness Month, said Chief Operations Specialist Sharon Rogers, senior enlisted leader directorate for mental health at NNMC. The questionnaire will help people learn about alcohol consumption and better understand how it affects their overall health.
According to Rogers, the screening is an opportunity to reach out to individuals who might be struggling with alcohol and help them recognize the potential consequences before their drinking becomes a problem, be it violence, an injury or a drunk driving charge.
"We're here to help them," Rogers said.
Alcohol use disorders include alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence; and alcohol abuse, characterized by significant impairment but not necessarily physical dependence, according to Military Pathways, a voluntary mental health and alcohol self assessment program for military service members and their families. Through Defense Department funding, the program created the questionnaire that will be used at NNMC next week.
In addition, both alcohol abuse and dependence are more common among men than women and decrease with aging, according to Military Pathways.
Alcoholism is characterized by a number of symptoms. Rogers said one indication of a problem is when a person's alcohol tolerance increases. For example, when a person who usually drinks four beers suddenly needs eight beers to feel satisfied.
The signs to look for, Rogers said, are when drinking impacts a person's lifestyle, work, or family and they're not able to function normally.
It's important for people to understand their "alcohol IQ," she said - being able to identify the warning signs and recognize their drinking habits.
"If you drink an excessive amount [of alcohol], do you know how it will affect your health?" Rogers asked.
"We know about our other health [problems], blood pressure, cholesterol, but we hardly ever think about our drinking," said Shellie Spadaro, SARP department head and counselor.
SARP offers a variety of services to help people coping with alcohol disorders or who have been in trouble because of an incident related to alcohol, Spadaro said. SARP counselors assess individuals with potential drinking problems and work closely with the command drug and alcohol program advisor and the hospital wards.
The program also has a continuing care group for those who have been diagnosed with alcohol dependence, she said, and an early intervention class for those who have not been diagnosed with alcohol dependence or alcohol abuse, but have gotten in trouble because of alcohol.
For the first time, SARP is working with NNMC's Health Promotion/Wellness Clinic to conduct the command-wide screening.
"We're really excited about it," said Lauren Thomas, department head of the Health Promotion/ Wellness Clinic.
The department promotes health, fitness, nutrition, stress management and tobacco cessation, Thomas said, and has been focusing more on educating staff about the affects of drinking, making it a more comprehensive program.
With the screening, she added, individuals are able to be proactive and seek treatment before they begin to suffer the consequences.
"Don't wait until it's on your record," she said. "We want to help identify the risks of problem drinking ahead of time."
Enterprise Departs for Sea Trials
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark Meredith
April 17, 2010 - NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) departed Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard April 17 to conduct sea trials.
The ship will be testing equipment, running system checks and making certain that Enterprise is ready to be delivered to the fleet.
"It's kind of like buying a car," said Cmdr. Edward M. Galvin, Enterprise's operations officer. "You have to take the car out for a test drive to try out all of its systems. That's what we'll be doing with sea trials: taking the keys from Northrop Grumman and trying the ship out."
Also getting underway with Enterprise during the trials are key members of Northrop Grumman who will help make sure the ship is ready for the open water.
"I am very confident and hopeful that the next place we'll be pulling into will be Naval Station Norfolk," said Galvin. "I think everyone is ready to get back out to sea."
Upon the successful completion of sea trials, Northrop Grumman will deliver the ship to the fleet, and Enterprise will begin preparing for deployment.
"This will mark the culmination of our shipyard work," said Galvin. "At that point, we'll be able to shift our focus from fixing the ship to combat presence, our real job."
After the completion of sea trials, Enterprise will begin preparing for full-scale flight operations.
"The next time we go out will be for flight deck certification," said Galvin.
The end of every day marks another step closer to Enterprise beginning her 21st deployment in her 48 years of service.
Enterprise is currently conducting sea trials in preparation for her return to the fleet.
April 17, 2010 - NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) departed Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard April 17 to conduct sea trials.
The ship will be testing equipment, running system checks and making certain that Enterprise is ready to be delivered to the fleet.
"It's kind of like buying a car," said Cmdr. Edward M. Galvin, Enterprise's operations officer. "You have to take the car out for a test drive to try out all of its systems. That's what we'll be doing with sea trials: taking the keys from Northrop Grumman and trying the ship out."
Also getting underway with Enterprise during the trials are key members of Northrop Grumman who will help make sure the ship is ready for the open water.
"I am very confident and hopeful that the next place we'll be pulling into will be Naval Station Norfolk," said Galvin. "I think everyone is ready to get back out to sea."
Upon the successful completion of sea trials, Northrop Grumman will deliver the ship to the fleet, and Enterprise will begin preparing for deployment.
"This will mark the culmination of our shipyard work," said Galvin. "At that point, we'll be able to shift our focus from fixing the ship to combat presence, our real job."
After the completion of sea trials, Enterprise will begin preparing for full-scale flight operations.
"The next time we go out will be for flight deck certification," said Galvin.
The end of every day marks another step closer to Enterprise beginning her 21st deployment in her 48 years of service.
Enterprise is currently conducting sea trials in preparation for her return to the fleet.
Flag Officer Assignments
Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead announced today the following assignments:
Rear Adm. (lower half) Samuel J. Cox will be assigned as director, National Maritime Intelligence Center, Washington, D.C. Cox last served as director, plans, policy, and intelligence integration, Naval Network Warfare Command, Norfolk, Va.
Rear Adm. (lower half) Samuel Perez Jr. will be assigned as commander, Carrier Strike Group Three, Bremerton, Wash. Perez is currently serving as deputy commander, Joint Interagency Task Force, U.S. Southern Command, Key West, Fla.
Rear Adm. (lower half) Samuel J. Cox will be assigned as director, National Maritime Intelligence Center, Washington, D.C. Cox last served as director, plans, policy, and intelligence integration, Naval Network Warfare Command, Norfolk, Va.
Rear Adm. (lower half) Samuel Perez Jr. will be assigned as commander, Carrier Strike Group Three, Bremerton, Wash. Perez is currently serving as deputy commander, Joint Interagency Task Force, U.S. Southern Command, Key West, Fla.
Navy Signs Mentoring Agreement with Arlington Public Schools
By Lt. j.g. Laura K. Stegherr, Diversity Directorate Public Affairs
ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy signed a formal partnership agreement April 14 with the Arlington, Va. Career Center (ACC) that will bring together Navy volunteers and mentors with ACC students.
The Personal Excellence Partnership Agreement, signed by Steffanie Easter, assistant deputy chief of naval operations for manpower, personnel, training and education, and Dr. Jerry Caputo, principal of ACC, establishes a link between the Navy and ACC through which ACC students will have the opportunity to work with Naval professionals in the Washington, D.C. area in several classroom and extra-curricular activities.
The ACC is a program of the Arlington Public Schools system which provides high-school level students with career and technical education programs and educational certificates. The center serves more than 1,100 students a day.
With this agreement, Navy volunteers will serve as classroom aides and tutors, volunteers for special events, and provide one-on-one mentoring for ACC students, with the goal of equipping students with the necessary skills to be life-ready and college-bound.
Before signing the agreement, Easter expressed confidence that the Navy volunteers will make a positive and life-changing impact on ACC's students.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity we have today to forge this relationship with the ACC," said Easter. "The Navy is committed to providing professional, well-prepared and disciplined sailors and civilians to help out in this effort, and they are all committed to making this program a success. The Navy's core values of honor, courage and commitment will form the foundation of the services and support that we are here to offer to you."
Chris Pagliaro, assistant principal at ACC, also expressed his thoughts on the partnership.
"It's no secret that having volunteers helps students and schools in so many ways," said Pagliaro. "The collaboration between the Navy and the career center will have as its chief goal to provide role models for academic success and civic responsibility. It is my hope that our new volunteers reach that threshold of enjoyment in an academic classroom, a field trip, working on a project in class, or chaperoning, or developing a relationship with a student that evokes fond memories of a community adult who gained as much from the students and the students gained from them."
The Navy has historically provided volunteers and mentors to work with local schools within the Washington, D.C. area. Opportunities to volunteer with the ACC ar open to uniformed and civilian Naval personnel.
ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy signed a formal partnership agreement April 14 with the Arlington, Va. Career Center (ACC) that will bring together Navy volunteers and mentors with ACC students.
The Personal Excellence Partnership Agreement, signed by Steffanie Easter, assistant deputy chief of naval operations for manpower, personnel, training and education, and Dr. Jerry Caputo, principal of ACC, establishes a link between the Navy and ACC through which ACC students will have the opportunity to work with Naval professionals in the Washington, D.C. area in several classroom and extra-curricular activities.
The ACC is a program of the Arlington Public Schools system which provides high-school level students with career and technical education programs and educational certificates. The center serves more than 1,100 students a day.
With this agreement, Navy volunteers will serve as classroom aides and tutors, volunteers for special events, and provide one-on-one mentoring for ACC students, with the goal of equipping students with the necessary skills to be life-ready and college-bound.
Before signing the agreement, Easter expressed confidence that the Navy volunteers will make a positive and life-changing impact on ACC's students.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity we have today to forge this relationship with the ACC," said Easter. "The Navy is committed to providing professional, well-prepared and disciplined sailors and civilians to help out in this effort, and they are all committed to making this program a success. The Navy's core values of honor, courage and commitment will form the foundation of the services and support that we are here to offer to you."
Chris Pagliaro, assistant principal at ACC, also expressed his thoughts on the partnership.
"It's no secret that having volunteers helps students and schools in so many ways," said Pagliaro. "The collaboration between the Navy and the career center will have as its chief goal to provide role models for academic success and civic responsibility. It is my hope that our new volunteers reach that threshold of enjoyment in an academic classroom, a field trip, working on a project in class, or chaperoning, or developing a relationship with a student that evokes fond memories of a community adult who gained as much from the students and the students gained from them."
The Navy has historically provided volunteers and mentors to work with local schools within the Washington, D.C. area. Opportunities to volunteer with the ACC ar open to uniformed and civilian Naval personnel.
San Antonio's Fiesta Spirit Welcomes Sailors During Navy Week
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist L.A. Shively, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- San Antonio Navy Week officially kicked off with the commander Naval Medicine Center (NMC), Portsmouth Va., speaking before the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee April 14.
Rear Adm. William R. Kiser commander NMC will be the inaugural commanding officer for the new Medical Education Training Campus (METC) at Ft. Sam Houston which will combine medical training for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
METC is the largest consolidation of service training in Department of Defense history and will be the world's principal military medical education and training institution.
Though traditionally an Army and Air Force town and often referred to as Military City USA; Navy presence in San Antonio is growing rapidly as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment Act (BRAC).
Kiser's presentation to the Military Affairs Committee described METC and the benefits of a joint training center.
According to Kiser, under BRAC standardized training for medical enlisted specialties will enhance tri-service interoperability and joint deployment opportunities, while cutting redundant curricula, streamlining system capacity and reducing infrastructure.
"In the coming months, San Antonio will see a huge influx of Sailors moving here with the establishment of METC, the joint Medical Education Training Campus," said Kiser.
"Navy Weeks are a great opportunity for us to travel to non-fleet concentrated areas and tell our Navy story to people who don't traditionally hear it," said Kiser. "The San Antonio Navy Week is a wonderful way for us to get in front of their [METC] arrival and explain to the people who live here who we are and what we do.
The San Antonio Navy Week began April 14 and runs through April 25 during which Sailors will be celebrating Fiesta at the Riverwalk, visiting sick children and swapping sea stories with veterans.
The U.S. Naval Academy band Electric Brigade will visit Ft. Sam Houston during the Army's Fiesta celebration. Sailors from USS San Antonio (LPD 17) are speaking to youth and Navy flag officers are visiting area universities and businesses to communicate support and engender a sense of partnership with the BRAC endeavor.
Sailors will be on board for the Navy Day at the Alamo, the Battle of Flowers and Texas Cavaliers River Parades.
Students at area high schools will get a chance to experience the flight simulator and have fun in the Navy Suburban, an SUV loaded with Navy interactive video games.
SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- San Antonio Navy Week officially kicked off with the commander Naval Medicine Center (NMC), Portsmouth Va., speaking before the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee April 14.
Rear Adm. William R. Kiser commander NMC will be the inaugural commanding officer for the new Medical Education Training Campus (METC) at Ft. Sam Houston which will combine medical training for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
METC is the largest consolidation of service training in Department of Defense history and will be the world's principal military medical education and training institution.
Though traditionally an Army and Air Force town and often referred to as Military City USA; Navy presence in San Antonio is growing rapidly as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment Act (BRAC).
Kiser's presentation to the Military Affairs Committee described METC and the benefits of a joint training center.
According to Kiser, under BRAC standardized training for medical enlisted specialties will enhance tri-service interoperability and joint deployment opportunities, while cutting redundant curricula, streamlining system capacity and reducing infrastructure.
"In the coming months, San Antonio will see a huge influx of Sailors moving here with the establishment of METC, the joint Medical Education Training Campus," said Kiser.
"Navy Weeks are a great opportunity for us to travel to non-fleet concentrated areas and tell our Navy story to people who don't traditionally hear it," said Kiser. "The San Antonio Navy Week is a wonderful way for us to get in front of their [METC] arrival and explain to the people who live here who we are and what we do.
The San Antonio Navy Week began April 14 and runs through April 25 during which Sailors will be celebrating Fiesta at the Riverwalk, visiting sick children and swapping sea stories with veterans.
The U.S. Naval Academy band Electric Brigade will visit Ft. Sam Houston during the Army's Fiesta celebration. Sailors from USS San Antonio (LPD 17) are speaking to youth and Navy flag officers are visiting area universities and businesses to communicate support and engender a sense of partnership with the BRAC endeavor.
Sailors will be on board for the Navy Day at the Alamo, the Battle of Flowers and Texas Cavaliers River Parades.
Students at area high schools will get a chance to experience the flight simulator and have fun in the Navy Suburban, an SUV loaded with Navy interactive video games.
San Diego Padres' Host Military Opening Night
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Sanford, Combat Camera Group Pacific
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Thousands of service members were recognized during the San Diego Padres' Military Opening Night game at Petco Park April 14.
Prior to the start of the game, 16 service members, recognized as service-wide front-runners in the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard, were honored on the field.
The Padres' announcer also asked each individual active duty, Reserve and retired service member to stand so they could be acknowledged for their service.
Following the presentation, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3MAW) Band from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar played the national anthem, while Edwards Air Force Base Color Guard presented the colors. During the national anthem, a procession of Sailors from Naval Base San Diego carried the 50 U.S. state flags.
As the anthem concluded, a Coast Guard HH-60J Jayhawk helicopter performed a flyover of the stadium.
"I'm glad it's a ceremonial pitch because I'm certainly not trying out for the Padres," said Marine Corps Major Gen. Thomas Conant, 3MAW commanding general and guest of honor, who threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
However, the game didn't officially begin until Jacob and Jeremiah Bruce said "play ball."
The two young boys, along with their sister, Aleah, and mother, Legalman 1st Class Jessica Bruce, were brought onto the field so the boys could kick off the game.
But before Jacob and Jeremiah could officially begin the game, a video greeting from their father, Chief Master-at-Arms Todd Bruce, three months into a one-year deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, played on the Petco Park big screen.
"My daughter cried, the boys were excited. I'm still shaking," said Bruce. "I'd like to thank Navy Region Southwest and the Padres organization for making this happen. It was awesome."
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Lonny Wedell, who returned from a seven-month deployment to Qatar April 9, arrived in uniform to take advantage of the Padre's half-price tickets for uniformed service members.
"I got a front row seat behind the visitors' dugout," he said. "I think the Padres' are known for supporting the military more than any other team and what they're doing for us is pretty awesome."
Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Hannah Sutton, who carried the Montana state flag during the procession, was also excited to attend.
"I think it's nice because sometimes people don't seem to appreciate what we do so it's really great when you see something like this," said Sutton, from Shepherd, Mont. "When all the service members stood up to be recognized, it was nice to hear the applause."
Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Samantha Riker, from Luther, Mich., carried the Idaho state flag and this was the first professional baseball game she attended.
"The field was really big and I'd never been on such a large area where everyone was staring at me," she said. "I was really nervous."
Members of the Wounded Warrior Battalion Detachment from Naval Medical Center (NMC) San Diego enjoyed the game in hospitality suites.
Marine Gunnery Sgt. David Rohde, a 17-year veteran originally from Sandy, Utah, enjoyed watching the game from the suite.
"This is my first time at the stadium," said Rohde, who suffered injuries from an improvised explosive device. "I enjoyed seeing all the state flags and hearing the Marine Corps Band. It was well put together and a good show. It's great that Northrop Grumman could host this suite for us."
The Padres wore their desert camouflage uniforms to honor service members and although losing 6-1 to the Atlanta Braves, Padres' All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez had a broader perspective on the night's meaning.
"We're able to play this game here because of what the military does out there," he said. "We just want to thank the military for all our freedom. Today is our way of giving them a little bit of recognition."
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Thousands of service members were recognized during the San Diego Padres' Military Opening Night game at Petco Park April 14.
Prior to the start of the game, 16 service members, recognized as service-wide front-runners in the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard, were honored on the field.
The Padres' announcer also asked each individual active duty, Reserve and retired service member to stand so they could be acknowledged for their service.
Following the presentation, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3MAW) Band from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar played the national anthem, while Edwards Air Force Base Color Guard presented the colors. During the national anthem, a procession of Sailors from Naval Base San Diego carried the 50 U.S. state flags.
As the anthem concluded, a Coast Guard HH-60J Jayhawk helicopter performed a flyover of the stadium.
"I'm glad it's a ceremonial pitch because I'm certainly not trying out for the Padres," said Marine Corps Major Gen. Thomas Conant, 3MAW commanding general and guest of honor, who threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
However, the game didn't officially begin until Jacob and Jeremiah Bruce said "play ball."
The two young boys, along with their sister, Aleah, and mother, Legalman 1st Class Jessica Bruce, were brought onto the field so the boys could kick off the game.
But before Jacob and Jeremiah could officially begin the game, a video greeting from their father, Chief Master-at-Arms Todd Bruce, three months into a one-year deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, played on the Petco Park big screen.
"My daughter cried, the boys were excited. I'm still shaking," said Bruce. "I'd like to thank Navy Region Southwest and the Padres organization for making this happen. It was awesome."
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Lonny Wedell, who returned from a seven-month deployment to Qatar April 9, arrived in uniform to take advantage of the Padre's half-price tickets for uniformed service members.
"I got a front row seat behind the visitors' dugout," he said. "I think the Padres' are known for supporting the military more than any other team and what they're doing for us is pretty awesome."
Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Hannah Sutton, who carried the Montana state flag during the procession, was also excited to attend.
"I think it's nice because sometimes people don't seem to appreciate what we do so it's really great when you see something like this," said Sutton, from Shepherd, Mont. "When all the service members stood up to be recognized, it was nice to hear the applause."
Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Samantha Riker, from Luther, Mich., carried the Idaho state flag and this was the first professional baseball game she attended.
"The field was really big and I'd never been on such a large area where everyone was staring at me," she said. "I was really nervous."
Members of the Wounded Warrior Battalion Detachment from Naval Medical Center (NMC) San Diego enjoyed the game in hospitality suites.
Marine Gunnery Sgt. David Rohde, a 17-year veteran originally from Sandy, Utah, enjoyed watching the game from the suite.
"This is my first time at the stadium," said Rohde, who suffered injuries from an improvised explosive device. "I enjoyed seeing all the state flags and hearing the Marine Corps Band. It was well put together and a good show. It's great that Northrop Grumman could host this suite for us."
The Padres wore their desert camouflage uniforms to honor service members and although losing 6-1 to the Atlanta Braves, Padres' All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez had a broader perspective on the night's meaning.
"We're able to play this game here because of what the military does out there," he said. "We just want to thank the military for all our freedom. Today is our way of giving them a little bit of recognition."
Charleston Celebrates Navy Day and USS Yorktown Birthday
MT. PLEASANT, S.C. (NNS) -- Sailors, World War II veterans, guests and the public celebrated Navy Day at Patriots Point, home of the USS Yorktown (CV 10) museum on April 15. Yorktown's 67th birthday celebration coincided with Charleston Navy Week, April 12-18.
"This day is a highlight for me because it brings back so many memories and thoughts from the past," said Rev. Harold Syfrett, USS Yorktown plankowner and an original crew member. "I have lived in Charleston for more than 40 years, and I have seen the good things that the Navy has done here. I'm a Navy man."
Syfrett proudly showed his plankowner certificate to Rear Adm. Bill Goodwin, assistant chief of naval operations for the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN), the Navy's official representative during Charleston Navy Week.
"This ship [Yorktown] helped to restore order to a chaotic world. Her Sailors hoped for the best, but were prepared for the worst," said Goodwin. "They transitioned from peace time, steaming to wartime combat operations dozens of times. They conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. And because of Yorktown, and especially the sacrifices of the Sailors who served aboard her, the world is a better place."
The day celebrated all things Navy, showcasing the SEAL Tour, the U.S. Navy's F-18 flight simulator and the Navy Rock Band Southeast Pride, which greeted the public as they entered Patriots Point. USS Yorktown's 67th birthday celebration recognized veterans that served in America's wars from World War II to those currently fighting the Global War on Terror.
Charleston Navy Week is one of 20 Navy Weeks planned across America in 2010. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence
"This day is a highlight for me because it brings back so many memories and thoughts from the past," said Rev. Harold Syfrett, USS Yorktown plankowner and an original crew member. "I have lived in Charleston for more than 40 years, and I have seen the good things that the Navy has done here. I'm a Navy man."
Syfrett proudly showed his plankowner certificate to Rear Adm. Bill Goodwin, assistant chief of naval operations for the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN), the Navy's official representative during Charleston Navy Week.
"This ship [Yorktown] helped to restore order to a chaotic world. Her Sailors hoped for the best, but were prepared for the worst," said Goodwin. "They transitioned from peace time, steaming to wartime combat operations dozens of times. They conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. And because of Yorktown, and especially the sacrifices of the Sailors who served aboard her, the world is a better place."
The day celebrated all things Navy, showcasing the SEAL Tour, the U.S. Navy's F-18 flight simulator and the Navy Rock Band Southeast Pride, which greeted the public as they entered Patriots Point. USS Yorktown's 67th birthday celebration recognized veterans that served in America's wars from World War II to those currently fighting the Global War on Terror.
Charleston Navy Week is one of 20 Navy Weeks planned across America in 2010. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence
World War II Veterans Honored at Charleston Riverdogs Baseball Game
From Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
April 17, 2010 - CHARLESTON, S.C. (NNS) -- Sailors and World War II veterans were honored at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game April 13 as part of Charleston Navy Week.
"Our Navy is still very present here in Charleston," said retired Rear Adm. James H. Flatley III, who enjoyed the game along with more than 20 World War II veterans. "I think the Navy gave us a lot of foresight in choosing Charleston as one of the Navy Week cities."
Navy Band Southeast "Pride" sang the national anthem and Rear Adm. Bill Goodwin, assistant chief of Naval Operations for the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN) threw out the game's first pitch.
"It's always fun to be at a ballpark to enjoy America's favorite pastime – baseball," said Goodwin. "Tonight was especially a treat to be with members of the 'Greatest Generation,' our World War II veterans."
Sailors from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) were recognized during the seventh inning stretch. They were driven around the bases, arriving at home plate to cheers from the crowd.
"I live for this," said L. "Lee" Allison, U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II, South Carolina State Commander. "I am so glad to have seen this dedication to the Navy to let people know they are well protected."
Charleston Navy Week is one of 20 Navy Weeks scheduled during 2010. Navy weeks are designed to increase awareness and show communities the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.
April 17, 2010 - CHARLESTON, S.C. (NNS) -- Sailors and World War II veterans were honored at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game April 13 as part of Charleston Navy Week.
"Our Navy is still very present here in Charleston," said retired Rear Adm. James H. Flatley III, who enjoyed the game along with more than 20 World War II veterans. "I think the Navy gave us a lot of foresight in choosing Charleston as one of the Navy Week cities."
Navy Band Southeast "Pride" sang the national anthem and Rear Adm. Bill Goodwin, assistant chief of Naval Operations for the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN) threw out the game's first pitch.
"It's always fun to be at a ballpark to enjoy America's favorite pastime – baseball," said Goodwin. "Tonight was especially a treat to be with members of the 'Greatest Generation,' our World War II veterans."
Sailors from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) were recognized during the seventh inning stretch. They were driven around the bases, arriving at home plate to cheers from the crowd.
"I live for this," said L. "Lee" Allison, U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II, South Carolina State Commander. "I am so glad to have seen this dedication to the Navy to let people know they are well protected."
Charleston Navy Week is one of 20 Navy Weeks scheduled during 2010. Navy weeks are designed to increase awareness and show communities the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.
DOD Announces Recruiting and Retention Numbers for March 2010
The Department of Defense announced today its recruiting and retention statistics for the active and reserve components for March 2010.
• Active Component.
• Recruiting. All four active services met or exceeded their accession goals for March 2010.
o Army – 6,615 accessions with a goal of 6,389; 104 percent
o Navy – 2,886 accessions with a goal of 2,886; 100 percent
o Marine Corps – 1,118 accessions with a goal of 1,116; 100 percent
o Air Force – 2,835 accessions with a goal of 2,835; 100 percent
• Retention. All service retention accomplishments are above the fiscal year-to-date goals for the first six months of the year.
• Reserve Component.
• Recruiting. All six reserve components met or exceeded their accession goals for March 2010.
o Army National Guard – 6,774 accessions with a goal of 5,150; 132 percent
o Army Reserve – 3,010 accessions with a goal of 2,706; 111 percent
o Navy Reserve – 348 accessions with a goal of 348; 100 percent
o Marine Corps Reserve – 772 accessions with a goal 523; 148 percent
o Air National Guard – 583 accessions with a goal of 540; 108 percent
o Air Force Reserve – 983 accessions with a goal of 949; 104 percent
• Attrition. Losses in all reserve components are within acceptable limits.
Detailed information on specific recruiting data can be obtained by contacting the individual military recruiting commands at 502-626-0164 for Army, 210-565-4678 for Air Force, 703-784-9454 for Marine Corps and 901-874-9049 for Navy. The reserve components can be reached at the following numbers: National Guard Bureau 703-607-2586; Army Reserve 404-464-8490; Air Force Reserve 703-697-1761; Navy Reserve 757-322-5652; and Marine Corps Reserve 504-678-6535.
• Active Component.
• Recruiting. All four active services met or exceeded their accession goals for March 2010.
o Army – 6,615 accessions with a goal of 6,389; 104 percent
o Navy – 2,886 accessions with a goal of 2,886; 100 percent
o Marine Corps – 1,118 accessions with a goal of 1,116; 100 percent
o Air Force – 2,835 accessions with a goal of 2,835; 100 percent
• Retention. All service retention accomplishments are above the fiscal year-to-date goals for the first six months of the year.
• Reserve Component.
• Recruiting. All six reserve components met or exceeded their accession goals for March 2010.
o Army National Guard – 6,774 accessions with a goal of 5,150; 132 percent
o Army Reserve – 3,010 accessions with a goal of 2,706; 111 percent
o Navy Reserve – 348 accessions with a goal of 348; 100 percent
o Marine Corps Reserve – 772 accessions with a goal 523; 148 percent
o Air National Guard – 583 accessions with a goal of 540; 108 percent
o Air Force Reserve – 983 accessions with a goal of 949; 104 percent
• Attrition. Losses in all reserve components are within acceptable limits.
Detailed information on specific recruiting data can be obtained by contacting the individual military recruiting commands at 502-626-0164 for Army, 210-565-4678 for Air Force, 703-784-9454 for Marine Corps and 901-874-9049 for Navy. The reserve components can be reached at the following numbers: National Guard Bureau 703-607-2586; Army Reserve 404-464-8490; Air Force Reserve 703-697-1761; Navy Reserve 757-322-5652; and Marine Corps Reserve 504-678-6535.
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 17, 2010
ARMY
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors, Akron, Ohio, was awarded on April 14 a $142,100,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for procuring 17 fully integrated persistent threat detection systems, support equipment, and initial spares, to provide a responsive, dedicated day/night netted sensor capability that enables U.S. and coalition forces to detect, locate, characterize, identify, track, and target forces in their battle space. Work is to be performed in Akron, Ohio, with an estimated completion date of April 14, 2011. One sole-source bid solicited with one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-10-C- American International Contractors, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on April 14 a $55,883,898 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of a close air support parking apron at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Work is to be performed in Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 21, 2011. Thirty-four bids were solicited with 13 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Middle East District, CETAM-CT-M, Winchester, Va., is the contracting activity (W912ER-10-C-0012).
The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, Pa., was awarded on April 12 a $30,219,105 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to exercise option for 145,480 hours in the amount of $30,219,105 for engineering services. Work is to be performed in Ridley Park, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Aviation and Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-CH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-04-G-0023).
Global Strategies Group North America Inc., Frederick, Md., was awarded on April 14 a $26,753,153 firm-fixed-price contract for 147 containerized kitchen and spare parts kits. Work is to be performed in Frederick, Md., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Office, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-05-D-0004).
Davila Construction, San Antonio, Texas, was awarded on April 14 an $8,360,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of one soldier and family assistance cSenter for the Warrior in Transition Complex located at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Work is to be performed in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, with an estimated completion date of May 28, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-10-C-0031).
The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, Pa., was awarded on April 12 a $7,999,920 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to exercise option for 38,513 hours in the amount of $7,999,920 for engineering services. Work is to be performed in Ridley Park, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Aviation and Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-CH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-04-G-0023).
CDM Constructors Inc., Denver, Colo., was awarded on April 13 a $7,051,653 firm-fixed-price contract for the design/build of various elements to provide a clean potable water system, to include installation and replacement of domestic water lines; replacement of transmission main; addition and replacement of fire hydrants; construction of new looped water line arrangement; construction of a new treatment plant building for filtration including transmission main; and renovation of existing pump station at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Work is to be performed in Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, with an estimated completion date of May 14, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Sacramento, Calif., is the contracting activity (W91238-10-C-0026).
Badger Truck Center, Inc., Milwaukee, Wis., was awarded on April 14 a $6,258,564 firm-fixed-price contract to disassemble M915A1 trucks, repair/refurbish, replace parts, and deliver to Red River Army Depot in the form of kits for assembly. Work is to be performed in West Allis, Wis., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 22, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. Red River Army Depot, Texarkana, Texas, is the contracting activity (W911RQ-08-D-0006).
NAVY
Boeing Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Phantom Works, Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded a $32,988,112 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) enterprise network manager software support for the network enterprise domain under the Joint Program Executive Office, JTRS. This two-year contract includes three one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the potential value of this contract to $54,880,000. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., and is expected to be completed April 15, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities and SPAWAR e-Commerce Central Web sites, with three offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-D-0069).
Michael Baker, Jr., Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded $6,147,294 for firm-fixed price task order #0004 under a previously awarded architect-engineering contract (N62470-10-D-3000) for multimedia environmental compliance engineering support at various Navy and Department of Defense installations worldwide. The work provides for environmental compliance reports and plans, fuel pipeline pressure testing, bulk fuel storage integrity testing, and annual equipment certifications. The work to be performed is for engineering testing and evaluation of fuel systems at various Navy, Marine Corps and Defense Energy Support Center facilities inside and outside the contiguous United States, and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics C4 Systems, Scottsdale, Ariz., is being awarded a $5,803,648 modification to previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-02-C-2052) to purchase one Combat Operations Center (COC) Capability Set II system, 10 duct plenum adapter kits and 10 generator environmental control unit tent-trailers. The COC is an integrated, mobile package of shelter, trailers, power, cabling, and communication and network processing systems. This integrated package provides software and interface to current Marine Corps communications assets. Work will be performed in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Anham, LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is being awarded a maximum $6,469,092,827 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for full-line food and beverage support to authorized ordering facilities in Iraq, Kuwait, and Jordan. The original proposal was a full and open solicitation with four responses. This contract provides for one 18-month option and three one-year periods. The date of performance completion is 18 months post first delivery order. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-10-D-3373).
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors, Akron, Ohio, was awarded on April 14 a $142,100,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for procuring 17 fully integrated persistent threat detection systems, support equipment, and initial spares, to provide a responsive, dedicated day/night netted sensor capability that enables U.S. and coalition forces to detect, locate, characterize, identify, track, and target forces in their battle space. Work is to be performed in Akron, Ohio, with an estimated completion date of April 14, 2011. One sole-source bid solicited with one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-10-C- American International Contractors, Inc., Arlington, Va., was awarded on April 14 a $55,883,898 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of a close air support parking apron at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Work is to be performed in Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 21, 2011. Thirty-four bids were solicited with 13 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Middle East District, CETAM-CT-M, Winchester, Va., is the contracting activity (W912ER-10-C-0012).
The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, Pa., was awarded on April 12 a $30,219,105 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to exercise option for 145,480 hours in the amount of $30,219,105 for engineering services. Work is to be performed in Ridley Park, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Aviation and Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-CH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-04-G-0023).
Global Strategies Group North America Inc., Frederick, Md., was awarded on April 14 a $26,753,153 firm-fixed-price contract for 147 containerized kitchen and spare parts kits. Work is to be performed in Frederick, Md., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. U.S. Army Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Office, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-05-D-0004).
Davila Construction, San Antonio, Texas, was awarded on April 14 an $8,360,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the construction of one soldier and family assistance cSenter for the Warrior in Transition Complex located at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Work is to be performed in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, with an estimated completion date of May 28, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-10-C-0031).
The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, Pa., was awarded on April 12 a $7,999,920 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to exercise option for 38,513 hours in the amount of $7,999,920 for engineering services. Work is to be performed in Ridley Park, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Aviation and Missile Command Contracting Center, CCAM-CH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-04-G-0023).
CDM Constructors Inc., Denver, Colo., was awarded on April 13 a $7,051,653 firm-fixed-price contract for the design/build of various elements to provide a clean potable water system, to include installation and replacement of domestic water lines; replacement of transmission main; addition and replacement of fire hydrants; construction of new looped water line arrangement; construction of a new treatment plant building for filtration including transmission main; and renovation of existing pump station at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Work is to be performed in Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, with an estimated completion date of May 14, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Sacramento, Calif., is the contracting activity (W91238-10-C-0026).
Badger Truck Center, Inc., Milwaukee, Wis., was awarded on April 14 a $6,258,564 firm-fixed-price contract to disassemble M915A1 trucks, repair/refurbish, replace parts, and deliver to Red River Army Depot in the form of kits for assembly. Work is to be performed in West Allis, Wis., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 22, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received. Red River Army Depot, Texarkana, Texas, is the contracting activity (W911RQ-08-D-0006).
NAVY
Boeing Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Phantom Works, Huntington Beach, Calif., is being awarded a $32,988,112 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) enterprise network manager software support for the network enterprise domain under the Joint Program Executive Office, JTRS. This two-year contract includes three one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the potential value of this contract to $54,880,000. Work will be performed in Huntington Beach, Calif., and is expected to be completed April 15, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities and SPAWAR e-Commerce Central Web sites, with three offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-D-0069).
Michael Baker, Jr., Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded $6,147,294 for firm-fixed price task order #0004 under a previously awarded architect-engineering contract (N62470-10-D-3000) for multimedia environmental compliance engineering support at various Navy and Department of Defense installations worldwide. The work provides for environmental compliance reports and plans, fuel pipeline pressure testing, bulk fuel storage integrity testing, and annual equipment certifications. The work to be performed is for engineering testing and evaluation of fuel systems at various Navy, Marine Corps and Defense Energy Support Center facilities inside and outside the contiguous United States, and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics C4 Systems, Scottsdale, Ariz., is being awarded a $5,803,648 modification to previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-02-C-2052) to purchase one Combat Operations Center (COC) Capability Set II system, 10 duct plenum adapter kits and 10 generator environmental control unit tent-trailers. The COC is an integrated, mobile package of shelter, trailers, power, cabling, and communication and network processing systems. This integrated package provides software and interface to current Marine Corps communications assets. Work will be performed in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Anham, LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is being awarded a maximum $6,469,092,827 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for full-line food and beverage support to authorized ordering facilities in Iraq, Kuwait, and Jordan. The original proposal was a full and open solicitation with four responses. This contract provides for one 18-month option and three one-year periods. The date of performance completion is 18 months post first delivery order. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-10-D-3373).
2009 DOD Reserve Family Readiness Awards
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs Dennis M. McCarthy hosted the 2009 Department of Defense Reserve Family Readiness Awards winners in a ceremony this morning here at the Pentagon.
The award recognizes the National Guard and reserve units, one from each of the seven reserve components, with the very best programs to support their families. Representatives from each of the units selected received a commemorative plaque from Secretary McCarthy. Each unit also received a cash award from the Military Officers Association of America. The cash award is to be put towards the further enhancement of family support programs.
This year's winners are:
• Army National Guard, 32d Infantry Brigade, Camp Douglas, Wis.
• U.S. Army Reserve, 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training), Charlotte, N.C.
• U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772, Willow Grove, Pa.
• U.S. Navy Reserve, Navy Operational Support Center, Columbus, Ohio
• Air National Guard, 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn.
• U.S. Air Force Reserve, 482d Fighter Wing, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla.
• U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, Port Security Unit 311, San Pedro, Calif.
The DoD Reserve Family Readiness Awards Program was established in 2000 to recognize the top unit in each of the reserve components. Family readiness programs are particularly important as we rely on significant numbers of reservists to serve in critical locations worldwide. Family readiness has proven to be a key component of mission readiness. Robust family readiness programs have enhanced the deployability of our Guard and Reserve units and they represent a vital link in the support networks for our reserve families.
The award recognizes the National Guard and reserve units, one from each of the seven reserve components, with the very best programs to support their families. Representatives from each of the units selected received a commemorative plaque from Secretary McCarthy. Each unit also received a cash award from the Military Officers Association of America. The cash award is to be put towards the further enhancement of family support programs.
This year's winners are:
• Army National Guard, 32d Infantry Brigade, Camp Douglas, Wis.
• U.S. Army Reserve, 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training), Charlotte, N.C.
• U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772, Willow Grove, Pa.
• U.S. Navy Reserve, Navy Operational Support Center, Columbus, Ohio
• Air National Guard, 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn.
• U.S. Air Force Reserve, 482d Fighter Wing, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla.
• U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, Port Security Unit 311, San Pedro, Calif.
The DoD Reserve Family Readiness Awards Program was established in 2000 to recognize the top unit in each of the reserve components. Family readiness programs are particularly important as we rely on significant numbers of reservists to serve in critical locations worldwide. Family readiness has proven to be a key component of mission readiness. Robust family readiness programs have enhanced the deployability of our Guard and Reserve units and they represent a vital link in the support networks for our reserve families.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Guard, active-duty Airmen provide dental care to remote Alaskan village
by Staff Sgt. J. Paul Croxon
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
4/16/2010 - KOTZEBUE, Alaska (AFNS) -- Three Airmen providing care to remote villages here is proving to be a productive way to conduct much-needed training.
The Airmen, deployed from bases across the country in support of Operation Arctic Care, a joint innovative readiness training exercise aimed at providing medical care to remote villages in northeast Alaska.
Together, they have varied military backgrounds in the active duty, Guard and Reserve components that add experience and perspective to the unique mission.
Maj. Blake Moore, an active-duty dentist, specializes in pediatric dentistry, which is a good fit for Kotzebue since the majority of the patients he sees are children, many of whom have an urgent need of dental care.
"We're seeing a lot of cavities," said Major Moore, who deployed from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. "I suspect part of the reason is from a reduced access to care and diet."
As a dentist who specializes in working with children, Major Moore has developed a number of techniques to put his small patients at ease.
"He's great at making the children comfortable and making the instruments less scary," said Staff Sgt. Molly Skovronski, a dental assistant and guardsman deployed from the 132nd Medical Group in Des Moines, Iowa. "He has a name for every instrument; a clamp that holds the mouth open he calls a tooth pillow. The high-speed drill he calls his whistle and the low-speed drill he calls his snow machine."
Techniques like these prove to be invaluable training opportunities for Airmen who don't work in the career field full-time.
"I'm a radiology technician in my civilian job," said Master Sgt. Patricia Glenn, a guardsman deployed from the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham, Ala. "I'm here fulfilling my annual tour commitment and this has been a great training opportunity. This is the first time I've worked so much with children."
Sergeant Glenn has experience in every component of the Air Force with four years of active-duty experience followed by a year in the Reserve and is working on her 15th year in the Air National Guard. During her 20 years of service, she has been in three career fields.
Training that incorporates an operational mission like Operation Arctic Care is a much more valuable training experience since the villagers also benefit, she said.
Like Sergeant Glenn, this is the first time Sergeant Skovronski has worked with children.
It's taken a little getting used to, but being able to work with a pediatric dentist has enhanced her appreciation for the career field, she said.
"It took me about a day to get used to working around children," she said. "You have to learn to look at things they way they do. Everything could be scary if you approach it wrong. I don't do this every day. I'm a full-time student. I feel lucky that I could come here, truly blessed."
Though Sergeant Skovronski said she chose to be a dental assistant as guardsman because she wanted to see if she enjoyed it one weekend a month, this deployment has proven to her that it's what she wants to do.
"My admissions counselor at my school told me while I was here that I needed to register for classes," she said. "She asked what classes I wanted to register for and I'm thinking of changing majors from liberal arts to the dental hygienist program because of this experience."
It seems like Operation Arctic Care has produced one more dental assistant in addition to dozens of whiter Alaskan smiles.
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
4/16/2010 - KOTZEBUE, Alaska (AFNS) -- Three Airmen providing care to remote villages here is proving to be a productive way to conduct much-needed training.
The Airmen, deployed from bases across the country in support of Operation Arctic Care, a joint innovative readiness training exercise aimed at providing medical care to remote villages in northeast Alaska.
Together, they have varied military backgrounds in the active duty, Guard and Reserve components that add experience and perspective to the unique mission.
Maj. Blake Moore, an active-duty dentist, specializes in pediatric dentistry, which is a good fit for Kotzebue since the majority of the patients he sees are children, many of whom have an urgent need of dental care.
"We're seeing a lot of cavities," said Major Moore, who deployed from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. "I suspect part of the reason is from a reduced access to care and diet."
As a dentist who specializes in working with children, Major Moore has developed a number of techniques to put his small patients at ease.
"He's great at making the children comfortable and making the instruments less scary," said Staff Sgt. Molly Skovronski, a dental assistant and guardsman deployed from the 132nd Medical Group in Des Moines, Iowa. "He has a name for every instrument; a clamp that holds the mouth open he calls a tooth pillow. The high-speed drill he calls his whistle and the low-speed drill he calls his snow machine."
Techniques like these prove to be invaluable training opportunities for Airmen who don't work in the career field full-time.
"I'm a radiology technician in my civilian job," said Master Sgt. Patricia Glenn, a guardsman deployed from the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham, Ala. "I'm here fulfilling my annual tour commitment and this has been a great training opportunity. This is the first time I've worked so much with children."
Sergeant Glenn has experience in every component of the Air Force with four years of active-duty experience followed by a year in the Reserve and is working on her 15th year in the Air National Guard. During her 20 years of service, she has been in three career fields.
Training that incorporates an operational mission like Operation Arctic Care is a much more valuable training experience since the villagers also benefit, she said.
Like Sergeant Glenn, this is the first time Sergeant Skovronski has worked with children.
It's taken a little getting used to, but being able to work with a pediatric dentist has enhanced her appreciation for the career field, she said.
"It took me about a day to get used to working around children," she said. "You have to learn to look at things they way they do. Everything could be scary if you approach it wrong. I don't do this every day. I'm a full-time student. I feel lucky that I could come here, truly blessed."
Though Sergeant Skovronski said she chose to be a dental assistant as guardsman because she wanted to see if she enjoyed it one weekend a month, this deployment has proven to her that it's what she wants to do.
"My admissions counselor at my school told me while I was here that I needed to register for classes," she said. "She asked what classes I wanted to register for and I'm thinking of changing majors from liberal arts to the dental hygienist program because of this experience."
It seems like Operation Arctic Care has produced one more dental assistant in addition to dozens of whiter Alaskan smiles.
Keesler chief to compete in Warrior Games
by Tech. Sgt. Gregory Washburn
81st Training Wing Public Affairs
4/16/2010 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFNS) -- A chief master sergeant here is one of only 20 Airmen and Air Force veterans to participate in the inaugural Warrior Games, May 10 through 14, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Chief Master Sgt. Damian Orslene, the 81st Training Support Squadron superintendent, will represent the Air Force and compete with an estimated 200 athletes from the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
Chief Orslene originally learned of the Warrior Games "sitting at my desk one day. I get the wounded warrior bulletin and in the newsletter it mentioned the Warrior Games."
Swimming was part of the therapy during his recovery from multiple injuries sustained in Iraq, Chief Orslene said.
"Now I swim a mile three or four times a week," he added.
Due to a lack of swimming participants for the Air Force, Chief Orslene said the Air Force service representative was excited to learn that he's a swimmer.
"Yes, he's swimming a mile!" Chief Orslene said he heard on the other end of the phone line while discussing his training with the Air Force service representative.
"Then I got scared because I got excited too," he said. "I'm a triathlete, an athlete my whole life ... this would be great if I could be an athlete again."
These inaugural games are part of a joint effort between the Department of Defense and the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Athletes competing in the Warrior Games have sustained injuries including upper body injuries, lower body injuries, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress.
According to the Warrior Games Web site, "The Warrior Games provide a focal event to empower the incorporation of athletics into military wounded warrior programs, and provide an opportunity to introduce paralympic sports to injured service members, while at the same time building camaraderie and raising awareness of paralympic competition and adaptive sports in general."
In addition to swimming, events include shooting, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, track, wheelchair basketball, discus and shot put. In addition to winners in each event, there'll be an "Ultimate Warrior" competition in a pentathlon format and service-team scoring for a rotating Chairman's Cup.
Joint exercise at Osan wraps up
by Staff Sgt. Eric Burks
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
4/16/2010 - OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea (AFNS) -- Airmen of Osan Air Base's 25th Fighter Squadron and South Korea's 237th Tactical Fighter Squadron trained together this week during the spring Buddy Wing exercise that concluded April 15 here.
The exercise is designed to introduce and review tactics, exchange ideas, and improve interoperability between U.S. Air Force and South Korea pilots, maintainers and support members.
The exercise kicked off April 13 as the 237th TFS airmen arrived here in their KA-1 aircraft, followed by an afternoon of academics and briefings with the 25th FS staff. Over the next two days, 25th FS A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots and the KA-1 aircrew participated in air training exercises, flying joint missions based on simulated scenarios.
It was a great opportunity for the Airmen to share valuable knowledge with their allies, said South Korean air force Maj. Jwa-Ryong Park, the 237th TFS intelligence commander and pilot.
"The A-10 pilots are very proficient and have a lot of combat experience," he said. "We have a lot of expertise flying in Korea and are very familiar with the terrain, so there is a lot we can learn from each other."
While the language barrier is always the greatest challenge, Major Park said, the training provided improves coordination and interoperability. For instance, greater familiarity with the different terminologies used during air missions can greatly enhance communication in joint exercises and operations.
Buddy Wing exercises are held here twice annually and the 25th and 36th Fighter Squadrons alternate as hosts.
NETC Visits Naval Chaplaincy School, Center
By Lt. Cmdr Yolanda Gillen, Naval Chaplaincy School and Center
April 16, 2010 - COLUMBIA, S.C (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Joseph F. Kilkenny, commander, Naval Education and Training Center (NETC), and NETC Force Master Chief John Snyder visited the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center (NCSC) at Fort Jackson April 8 to tour the center's newly opened training facility.
During the visit, Capt. Michael Langston, commanding officer of NCSC briefed Kilkenny about the school and its mission, followed by a tour.
During the walk-thru of the building Kilkenny was shown five worship laboratories (Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Greek Orthodox), its 300 seat auditorium, archive room, classroom spaces and computer labs.
Before departing Kilkenny, took time to meet with several religious program specialists (RP) enrolled in the RP "A" School course, telling them how he approaches his life in the Navy.
"Take care of yourself; put heart and soul into your job, what you do will follow you, focus on family, and give back to the community."
After saying goodbye to NCSC staff and students Kilkenny and Snyder visited Camp McCrady's Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center and made a courtesy call with Col. Lillian Dixon, Fort Jackson's, garrison commander.
April 16, 2010 - COLUMBIA, S.C (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Joseph F. Kilkenny, commander, Naval Education and Training Center (NETC), and NETC Force Master Chief John Snyder visited the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center (NCSC) at Fort Jackson April 8 to tour the center's newly opened training facility.
During the visit, Capt. Michael Langston, commanding officer of NCSC briefed Kilkenny about the school and its mission, followed by a tour.
During the walk-thru of the building Kilkenny was shown five worship laboratories (Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Greek Orthodox), its 300 seat auditorium, archive room, classroom spaces and computer labs.
Before departing Kilkenny, took time to meet with several religious program specialists (RP) enrolled in the RP "A" School course, telling them how he approaches his life in the Navy.
"Take care of yourself; put heart and soul into your job, what you do will follow you, focus on family, and give back to the community."
After saying goodbye to NCSC staff and students Kilkenny and Snyder visited Camp McCrady's Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center and made a courtesy call with Col. Lillian Dixon, Fort Jackson's, garrison commander.
Department Recognizes Best Reserve Component Family Programs
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - Defense Department officials today recognized the best in National Guard and reserve family programs saying such efforts are critical to combat readiness.
"If we lose the support of our families, if we lose the support of our employers, we will be put out of business," said Dennis M. McCarthy, assistant Secretary of Defense for reserve affairs. "The sustainment of these family programs isn't just a nicety. There is a direct connection in their success and our operational readiness and our ability to succeed in combat."
McCarthy presented each of the seven winners with an engraved plaque during a Pentagon ceremony, and heralded the efforts of today's military families.
Retired Navy Vice Adm. Norb Ryan Jr., president of the Military Officers Association of America accompanied McCarthy in presenting the awards.
"You are our heroes," Ryan told the attendants. "You've carried us on your shoulders. We know you are the strongest and most resilient families this nation has and we need for you to be the strongest and most resilient.
"You have stretched and strained in manners I can only imagine," Ryan continued. "Nothing is more important than your support."
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, who is traveling and could not attend the ceremony, provided a statement of congratulations to the award recipients. "The National Guard and reserve is integral to everything the military does, and never more so than in the past decade."
Gates said in his statement that it is "absolutely critical" to mission readiness that troops know before they deploy that their families will be OK.
Air Force Col. Cory Lyman, director of individual and family support policy in reserve affairs, said the awards were created in 2000 to recognize those installations that accomplish the most in family readiness, while also achieving mission readiness. He recognized each of the recipients and highlighted their accomplishments:
-- The Army National Guard's 32nd Infantry Brigade at Camp Douglas, Wis., supported the largest National Guard deployment in Wisconsin history last year. The brigade maintains family morale at home with monthly programs throughout the deployment.
-- The Army Reserve's 108th Training Command in Charlotte, N.C., supported 12,000 soldiers through various phases of deployment, in part by creating its Community Connections Initiatives program to reach out to soldiers in the region to ensure support.
-- The Marine Corps Reserve's Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 in Willow Grove, Pa., shares information on everything from child care to Tricare with quarterly all-hands briefings to ensure that no Marine is considered non-deployable due to family concerns.
-- The Navy Reserve's Navy Operational Support Center in Columbus, Ohio, partners with other organizations to provide a host of programs, including 35 major events, more than 400 funeral honors, and youth programs.
-- The Air National Guard's 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth, Minn., contacts each new member's family and tracks every family's ability to have contact with their deployed servicemember.
-- The Air Force Reserve's 482nd Fighter Wing in Homestead, Fla., doubled the number of families participating in its Yellow Ribbon Program for higher education, and partners with local businesses and the Red Cross to help financially pressed families.
-- The Coast Guard Reserve's Port Security Unit 311 in San Pedro, Calif., established an Internet-based information outreach program that includes a chat room for family support and the opportunity for deployed reservists to send videos of them reading bedtime stories for their children back home.
"We've been treated to a description of what are arguably the best of the best programs," McCarthy said, "but we all know there are many, many more out there. If we do nothing else, we must support them because they are the backbone of our organization."
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - Defense Department officials today recognized the best in National Guard and reserve family programs saying such efforts are critical to combat readiness.
"If we lose the support of our families, if we lose the support of our employers, we will be put out of business," said Dennis M. McCarthy, assistant Secretary of Defense for reserve affairs. "The sustainment of these family programs isn't just a nicety. There is a direct connection in their success and our operational readiness and our ability to succeed in combat."
McCarthy presented each of the seven winners with an engraved plaque during a Pentagon ceremony, and heralded the efforts of today's military families.
Retired Navy Vice Adm. Norb Ryan Jr., president of the Military Officers Association of America accompanied McCarthy in presenting the awards.
"You are our heroes," Ryan told the attendants. "You've carried us on your shoulders. We know you are the strongest and most resilient families this nation has and we need for you to be the strongest and most resilient.
"You have stretched and strained in manners I can only imagine," Ryan continued. "Nothing is more important than your support."
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, who is traveling and could not attend the ceremony, provided a statement of congratulations to the award recipients. "The National Guard and reserve is integral to everything the military does, and never more so than in the past decade."
Gates said in his statement that it is "absolutely critical" to mission readiness that troops know before they deploy that their families will be OK.
Air Force Col. Cory Lyman, director of individual and family support policy in reserve affairs, said the awards were created in 2000 to recognize those installations that accomplish the most in family readiness, while also achieving mission readiness. He recognized each of the recipients and highlighted their accomplishments:
-- The Army National Guard's 32nd Infantry Brigade at Camp Douglas, Wis., supported the largest National Guard deployment in Wisconsin history last year. The brigade maintains family morale at home with monthly programs throughout the deployment.
-- The Army Reserve's 108th Training Command in Charlotte, N.C., supported 12,000 soldiers through various phases of deployment, in part by creating its Community Connections Initiatives program to reach out to soldiers in the region to ensure support.
-- The Marine Corps Reserve's Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 in Willow Grove, Pa., shares information on everything from child care to Tricare with quarterly all-hands briefings to ensure that no Marine is considered non-deployable due to family concerns.
-- The Navy Reserve's Navy Operational Support Center in Columbus, Ohio, partners with other organizations to provide a host of programs, including 35 major events, more than 400 funeral honors, and youth programs.
-- The Air National Guard's 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth, Minn., contacts each new member's family and tracks every family's ability to have contact with their deployed servicemember.
-- The Air Force Reserve's 482nd Fighter Wing in Homestead, Fla., doubled the number of families participating in its Yellow Ribbon Program for higher education, and partners with local businesses and the Red Cross to help financially pressed families.
-- The Coast Guard Reserve's Port Security Unit 311 in San Pedro, Calif., established an Internet-based information outreach program that includes a chat room for family support and the opportunity for deployed reservists to send videos of them reading bedtime stories for their children back home.
"We've been treated to a description of what are arguably the best of the best programs," McCarthy said, "but we all know there are many, many more out there. If we do nothing else, we must support them because they are the backbone of our organization."
Pottenger Passes NECC Torch to Tillotson
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Katrin Albritton, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs
April 16, 2010 - VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Command of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC)changed hands April 9 during a change of command ceremony on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Ft. Story.
Rear Adm. Michael P. Tillotson assumed command and relieved Rear Adm. Carol M. Pottenger.
Adm. J.C. Harvey, Jr., commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, gave the ceremony's keynote address.
"This ceremony recognizes and celebrates what we truly value in the Navy – the exercise of command," said Harvey. "It is a time to take note of Admiral Pottenger's many accomplishments and to welcome Admiral Tillotson aboard."
The tradition of celebrating the change in command is not just about the men and women in command, but also about the command itself. For NECC, this includes the more than 40,000 Sailors who carry out an array of duties and ensure thousands of operational successes around the world.
"In a time where we have never been so pressed to deploy our forces forward to support so many missions, in so many places, your leadership has made a difference," Harvey said to Pottenger. "Simply put, you took over a very young command, you gave your people a vision for the future and you executed superbly."
Before Pottenger read her orders relieving her as the commander of NECC, she recounted her experience learning about the capabilities that NECC forces provide, and the lessons she learned from the men and women who make these capabilities a reality. It was these experiences and these Sailors, that made the ceremony difficult for her.
"This is not a day that I have looked forward to. I am relinquishing command, and that is always something to be let go of reluctantly," said Pottenger. "More importantly, I am relinquishing command of an extraordinary force, in what has been a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Pottenger, who assumed duties as NECC commander from Tillotson nearly two years ago, was nominated by President Barak Obama in March for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as deputy chief of staff for capability development at Supreme Allied Command Transformation.
After assuming command, Tillotson recognized Pottenger's hard work and leadership through NECC's maturation as a Type Command.
"Admiral Pottenger, you have indeed done a superb job," he said. "The force was postured on the operational side when you took over. What we did not have was the foundation of the Type Command - the parts and pieces that make it all come together. You ensured these forces are ready and established the programs and processes that are necessary. I look forward to carrying on those traditions, and I look forward to commanding this organization as we move into the future."
Prior to arriving at NECC, Tillotson served as deputy director of Operations, U.S. Central Command.
NECC serves as the single functional command for the Navy's globally deployed expeditionary forces and as central management for the readiness, resources, manning, training and equipping of these forces. Expeditionary forces are organized to accomplish specific objectives in other countries.
April 16, 2010 - VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Command of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC)changed hands April 9 during a change of command ceremony on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Ft. Story.
Rear Adm. Michael P. Tillotson assumed command and relieved Rear Adm. Carol M. Pottenger.
Adm. J.C. Harvey, Jr., commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, gave the ceremony's keynote address.
"This ceremony recognizes and celebrates what we truly value in the Navy – the exercise of command," said Harvey. "It is a time to take note of Admiral Pottenger's many accomplishments and to welcome Admiral Tillotson aboard."
The tradition of celebrating the change in command is not just about the men and women in command, but also about the command itself. For NECC, this includes the more than 40,000 Sailors who carry out an array of duties and ensure thousands of operational successes around the world.
"In a time where we have never been so pressed to deploy our forces forward to support so many missions, in so many places, your leadership has made a difference," Harvey said to Pottenger. "Simply put, you took over a very young command, you gave your people a vision for the future and you executed superbly."
Before Pottenger read her orders relieving her as the commander of NECC, she recounted her experience learning about the capabilities that NECC forces provide, and the lessons she learned from the men and women who make these capabilities a reality. It was these experiences and these Sailors, that made the ceremony difficult for her.
"This is not a day that I have looked forward to. I am relinquishing command, and that is always something to be let go of reluctantly," said Pottenger. "More importantly, I am relinquishing command of an extraordinary force, in what has been a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Pottenger, who assumed duties as NECC commander from Tillotson nearly two years ago, was nominated by President Barak Obama in March for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as deputy chief of staff for capability development at Supreme Allied Command Transformation.
After assuming command, Tillotson recognized Pottenger's hard work and leadership through NECC's maturation as a Type Command.
"Admiral Pottenger, you have indeed done a superb job," he said. "The force was postured on the operational side when you took over. What we did not have was the foundation of the Type Command - the parts and pieces that make it all come together. You ensured these forces are ready and established the programs and processes that are necessary. I look forward to carrying on those traditions, and I look forward to commanding this organization as we move into the future."
Prior to arriving at NECC, Tillotson served as deputy director of Operations, U.S. Central Command.
NECC serves as the single functional command for the Navy's globally deployed expeditionary forces and as central management for the readiness, resources, manning, training and equipping of these forces. Expeditionary forces are organized to accomplish specific objectives in other countries.
General Officer Assignments
April 16, 2010 - The Chief of Staff, Air Force announced today the following assignments:
Brig. Gen. James K. McLaughlin, vice commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center, Air Combat Command, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., to director, combat and information operations, J-3A, Headquarters U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.
Col. David D. Thompson, who has been selected for the rank of brigadier general, director, space forces, U.S. Air Forces Central Command, Air Combat Command, Al Udeid, Qatar, to vice commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center, Air Combat Command, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.
Brig. Gen. James K. McLaughlin, vice commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center, Air Combat Command, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., to director, combat and information operations, J-3A, Headquarters U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.
Col. David D. Thompson, who has been selected for the rank of brigadier general, director, space forces, U.S. Air Forces Central Command, Air Combat Command, Al Udeid, Qatar, to vice commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center, Air Combat Command, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.
Gates: 'United States is Reengaging' With Caribbean
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he hopes today's regional security summit here and President Barack Obama's Caribbean Basin Security Initiative send a strong signal that "the United States is reengaging with this region" after drawing down its presence following the 9/11 terror attacks.
Speaking at a joint news conference today with seven Caribbean government and defense leaders, Gates said he's impressed by the innovative approaches being taken to promote collective security through the initiative.
Following what he called a "very productive" meeting to discuss furthering those efforts, Gates lauded the Caribbean nations' work toward marshalling limited resources to address common threats such as narco-trafficking and violent crime.
These challenges touch U.S. shores as well, and demand that regional nations mount a united front to confront them, Gates said during a joint news conference with Barbadian Prime Minister David Thompson.
Gates conceded that the drug trafficking problem has worsened here due to the success of the Merida Initiative and Mexico's crackdown on drug cartels there.
"Narco-trafficking is a problem for the hemisphere as a whole," he said, "and wherever you put pressure, the traffickers will go where there is less resistance and where there is less capability."
Going forward, Gates said he would like to see broader efforts to connect the regional security system here with efforts under way outside the Eastern Caribbean. This includes efforts by the French, Dutch, Colombians, Peruvians and U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force.
The secretary praised Barbados as a strong U.S. security partner and a leader in promoting security cooperation in the Eastern Caribbean.
"The United States stands steadfastly with you as you pursue long-term solutions to these problems," Gates said after meeting with the defense ministers.
Much of that support is provided through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative that President Barack Obama proposed last April during the Summit of the Americans in Trinidad and Tobago.
The initiative has been built with extensive input from Caribbean nations with a central role for the regional security system, Gates noted today, all aimed at helping regional governments face up to transnational threats.
The $45 million the United States has committed to the effort this year will help improve regional maritime patrol and interdiction capabilities and domain awareness and provide for additional joint training and exercises, he said.
Gates said details about how these funds will be allocated are being hammered out by technical working groups, with one convened today in Washington.
He emphasized that regional nations will be the ones to help determine how the funding can be most effective. The United States already has committed three interceptor boats and communications equipment, but Gates said he heard suggestions today about the need for more law enforcement training and the stand-up of major crimes units.
However, Gates emphasized that the Caribbean initiative represents more as it provides a comprehensive approach to regional security. Its scope extends beyond military and security assistance to address equally critical components of the region's economic and social stability.
The initiative aims to provide, "not just improved security capabilities to confront immediate threats, but also development assistance in hopes of addressing the root causes of regional problems, such as the lack of educational and employment opportunities, particularly for youth," Gates said. "That is a strategy we strongly support."
Fifteen Caribbean Basin nations are included in the security initiative: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he hopes today's regional security summit here and President Barack Obama's Caribbean Basin Security Initiative send a strong signal that "the United States is reengaging with this region" after drawing down its presence following the 9/11 terror attacks.
Speaking at a joint news conference today with seven Caribbean government and defense leaders, Gates said he's impressed by the innovative approaches being taken to promote collective security through the initiative.
Following what he called a "very productive" meeting to discuss furthering those efforts, Gates lauded the Caribbean nations' work toward marshalling limited resources to address common threats such as narco-trafficking and violent crime.
These challenges touch U.S. shores as well, and demand that regional nations mount a united front to confront them, Gates said during a joint news conference with Barbadian Prime Minister David Thompson.
Gates conceded that the drug trafficking problem has worsened here due to the success of the Merida Initiative and Mexico's crackdown on drug cartels there.
"Narco-trafficking is a problem for the hemisphere as a whole," he said, "and wherever you put pressure, the traffickers will go where there is less resistance and where there is less capability."
Going forward, Gates said he would like to see broader efforts to connect the regional security system here with efforts under way outside the Eastern Caribbean. This includes efforts by the French, Dutch, Colombians, Peruvians and U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force.
The secretary praised Barbados as a strong U.S. security partner and a leader in promoting security cooperation in the Eastern Caribbean.
"The United States stands steadfastly with you as you pursue long-term solutions to these problems," Gates said after meeting with the defense ministers.
Much of that support is provided through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative that President Barack Obama proposed last April during the Summit of the Americans in Trinidad and Tobago.
The initiative has been built with extensive input from Caribbean nations with a central role for the regional security system, Gates noted today, all aimed at helping regional governments face up to transnational threats.
The $45 million the United States has committed to the effort this year will help improve regional maritime patrol and interdiction capabilities and domain awareness and provide for additional joint training and exercises, he said.
Gates said details about how these funds will be allocated are being hammered out by technical working groups, with one convened today in Washington.
He emphasized that regional nations will be the ones to help determine how the funding can be most effective. The United States already has committed three interceptor boats and communications equipment, but Gates said he heard suggestions today about the need for more law enforcement training and the stand-up of major crimes units.
However, Gates emphasized that the Caribbean initiative represents more as it provides a comprehensive approach to regional security. Its scope extends beyond military and security assistance to address equally critical components of the region's economic and social stability.
The initiative aims to provide, "not just improved security capabilities to confront immediate threats, but also development assistance in hopes of addressing the root causes of regional problems, such as the lack of educational and employment opportunities, particularly for youth," Gates said. "That is a strategy we strongly support."
Fifteen Caribbean Basin nations are included in the security initiative: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Military Engineers Help Haiti Build Better Future
By Judith Snyderman
Emerging Media, Defense Media Activity
April 16, 2010 - Efforts to help Haiti rebuild after a devastating Jan. 12 earthquake will continue after the joint U.S. military task force there winds down at the end of May, the task force's chief engineer said yesterday. Navy Capt. James Wink recapped progress and outlined plans for the next phase of recovery during a "DoD Live" bloggers roundtable discussion.
Wink witnessed overwhelming scenes of destruction in Haiti when he arrived there Jan. 29. "The amount of rubble that is caused by this earthquake is 25 million cubic yards," he said. "To put that in a picture, that's five Louisiana Superdomes filled with rubble."
Logistics, rather than technical engineering obstacles, posed the greatest challenges, Wink said. Many people were still living on the streets of the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince at the end of January, he told the bloggers, so engineers began working in a triage mode to move people into shelter. "Before we could do anything else," he added, "we had to get the rubble out of the way."
Throughout the operation, Wink said, he's been impressed by the unified effort as the joint task force worked in support of the U.S. Agency for International Development, international representatives and Haitian officials. The triple mission everyone is working toward, explained, is to establish a basic level of functioning shelter, sanitation and settlement for earthquake victims.
An initial priority for engineers was to assess the main seaport which was heavily damaged. Analysis showed that the port's north pier was a complete loss, Wink said, but by the end of February, Seabees and Army divers had repaired the south pier well enough to allow small watercraft to relay critical humanitarian supplies from ships stationed offshore to troops at the pier, who transported them to stranded civilians.
By the end of March, he added, the south pier was fully operational, and the port is now being run entirely by Haitian authorities with no Defense Department involvement.
Now, Wink said, engineers are focused on mitigating dangers from flash floods and landslides during the upcoming rainy season for people living in camps.
"We're [working with] some of the Japanese and [U.S.] Navy Seabees inside some of those camps to install drainage systems and to build reinforcements to some of the walls," he said. The task force also is supporting the United Nations in building camps north of the capital city so displaced people can be moved out of harm's way.
Although Joint Task Force Haiti will be deactivated at the end of next month, Wink said, some Navy Seabees will remain to work on a new "Operation New Horizons" mission. Equipment is flowing in now to help in building community centers and schools in association with the mission.
Wink credited the service and sacrifice of U.S. troops and their families -- including the contributions of Navy Seabees and Army and Air Force engineers -- with much progress to date. But he also recognized the resilience of the Haitian people.
"These people are dealing with a disaster that is almost unexplainable in U.S. terms," he said. "They are living in conditions that are foreign to us. Yet, with a little bit of hope and a little bit of help, they just pick up and move on," he said.
Emerging Media, Defense Media Activity
April 16, 2010 - Efforts to help Haiti rebuild after a devastating Jan. 12 earthquake will continue after the joint U.S. military task force there winds down at the end of May, the task force's chief engineer said yesterday. Navy Capt. James Wink recapped progress and outlined plans for the next phase of recovery during a "DoD Live" bloggers roundtable discussion.
Wink witnessed overwhelming scenes of destruction in Haiti when he arrived there Jan. 29. "The amount of rubble that is caused by this earthquake is 25 million cubic yards," he said. "To put that in a picture, that's five Louisiana Superdomes filled with rubble."
Logistics, rather than technical engineering obstacles, posed the greatest challenges, Wink said. Many people were still living on the streets of the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince at the end of January, he told the bloggers, so engineers began working in a triage mode to move people into shelter. "Before we could do anything else," he added, "we had to get the rubble out of the way."
Throughout the operation, Wink said, he's been impressed by the unified effort as the joint task force worked in support of the U.S. Agency for International Development, international representatives and Haitian officials. The triple mission everyone is working toward, explained, is to establish a basic level of functioning shelter, sanitation and settlement for earthquake victims.
An initial priority for engineers was to assess the main seaport which was heavily damaged. Analysis showed that the port's north pier was a complete loss, Wink said, but by the end of February, Seabees and Army divers had repaired the south pier well enough to allow small watercraft to relay critical humanitarian supplies from ships stationed offshore to troops at the pier, who transported them to stranded civilians.
By the end of March, he added, the south pier was fully operational, and the port is now being run entirely by Haitian authorities with no Defense Department involvement.
Now, Wink said, engineers are focused on mitigating dangers from flash floods and landslides during the upcoming rainy season for people living in camps.
"We're [working with] some of the Japanese and [U.S.] Navy Seabees inside some of those camps to install drainage systems and to build reinforcements to some of the walls," he said. The task force also is supporting the United Nations in building camps north of the capital city so displaced people can be moved out of harm's way.
Although Joint Task Force Haiti will be deactivated at the end of next month, Wink said, some Navy Seabees will remain to work on a new "Operation New Horizons" mission. Equipment is flowing in now to help in building community centers and schools in association with the mission.
Wink credited the service and sacrifice of U.S. troops and their families -- including the contributions of Navy Seabees and Army and Air Force engineers -- with much progress to date. But he also recognized the resilience of the Haitian people.
"These people are dealing with a disaster that is almost unexplainable in U.S. terms," he said. "They are living in conditions that are foreign to us. Yet, with a little bit of hope and a little bit of help, they just pick up and move on," he said.
Arming of Vessels to Combat Piracy
Admiral Urges Arming of Vessels to Combat Piracy
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - A top Navy commander suggested yesterday that commercial vessels should arm themselves when traveling through pirate-infested waters off the Somali coast. Navy Adm. Mark P. Fitzgerald, commander of U.S. naval forces in Europe and Africa and of NATO's Allied Joint Task Force Command Naples, told Pentagon reporters that the scope of the piracy problem is too great to be policed by military vessels alone.
"We could put a World War II fleet of ships out there," Fitzgerald said, referring to the Gulf of Aden and the Mozambique Channel off the Indian coast, "and we still wouldn't be able to cover the whole ocean."
On an average day, 30 to 40 ships comprising international maritime forces monitor pirate activity in the Somali basin and the western Indian Ocean, Fitzgerald said, adding that five to 10 of these ships at any given time are American vessels.
Another issue, the admiral said, is what to do with pirates who are captured. The international community, he explained, has not yet answered the question of how to bring to justice pirates captured at sea. This issue has come to the fore with the recent capture of five suspected pirates by the crew of the USS Nicholas in the Indian Ocean west of the Seychelles.
"Catch and release is not a very good option," Fitzgerald said. "How do we deal with this? We've got to come to some kind of solution."
Somali-based piracy, the admiral said, will not go away until a government in Mogadishu is stable enough to confront the problem within its borders.
"Right now, we're trying to shoot the arrow instead of the archer," Fitzgerald said. He acknowledged that the prospect of a stable Somali government is unlikely in the near future.
The admiral's comments echoed remarks Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates made last year after Navy SEAL snipers killed three Somali pirates while rescuing the kidnapped American ship captain of the Maersk-Alabama cargo ship.
Gates, emphasizing the limitations of a purely military approach to piracy, said some officials have suggested bypassing the central government of Somalia and instead establishing relationships with officials of functioning local governments there.
"There is no purely military solution to it," the secretary told the Marine Corps War College in Quantico, Va., last year. "And as long as you've got this incredible number of poor people and the risks are relatively small, there's really no way in my view to control it unless you get something on land that begins to change the equation for these kids."
But in the near-term, Fitzgerald said yesterday, it is "incumbent upon the vessels who are sailing the high seas to either protect themselves or accept the dangers."
Asked if he would recommend that commercial ships arm themselves, Fitzgerald said: "I think they should."
"Commercial ships should take appropriate protections," he added, "because we cannot offer 100-percent guarantees of protection as the ships go through."
Fitzgerald also recommended tracking the spoils of successful piracy operations. "I think we'd be able to trace the financiers [and] the middlemen," he said.
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 16, 2010 - A top Navy commander suggested yesterday that commercial vessels should arm themselves when traveling through pirate-infested waters off the Somali coast. Navy Adm. Mark P. Fitzgerald, commander of U.S. naval forces in Europe and Africa and of NATO's Allied Joint Task Force Command Naples, told Pentagon reporters that the scope of the piracy problem is too great to be policed by military vessels alone.
"We could put a World War II fleet of ships out there," Fitzgerald said, referring to the Gulf of Aden and the Mozambique Channel off the Indian coast, "and we still wouldn't be able to cover the whole ocean."
On an average day, 30 to 40 ships comprising international maritime forces monitor pirate activity in the Somali basin and the western Indian Ocean, Fitzgerald said, adding that five to 10 of these ships at any given time are American vessels.
Another issue, the admiral said, is what to do with pirates who are captured. The international community, he explained, has not yet answered the question of how to bring to justice pirates captured at sea. This issue has come to the fore with the recent capture of five suspected pirates by the crew of the USS Nicholas in the Indian Ocean west of the Seychelles.
"Catch and release is not a very good option," Fitzgerald said. "How do we deal with this? We've got to come to some kind of solution."
Somali-based piracy, the admiral said, will not go away until a government in Mogadishu is stable enough to confront the problem within its borders.
"Right now, we're trying to shoot the arrow instead of the archer," Fitzgerald said. He acknowledged that the prospect of a stable Somali government is unlikely in the near future.
The admiral's comments echoed remarks Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates made last year after Navy SEAL snipers killed three Somali pirates while rescuing the kidnapped American ship captain of the Maersk-Alabama cargo ship.
Gates, emphasizing the limitations of a purely military approach to piracy, said some officials have suggested bypassing the central government of Somalia and instead establishing relationships with officials of functioning local governments there.
"There is no purely military solution to it," the secretary told the Marine Corps War College in Quantico, Va., last year. "And as long as you've got this incredible number of poor people and the risks are relatively small, there's really no way in my view to control it unless you get something on land that begins to change the equation for these kids."
But in the near-term, Fitzgerald said yesterday, it is "incumbent upon the vessels who are sailing the high seas to either protect themselves or accept the dangers."
Asked if he would recommend that commercial ships arm themselves, Fitzgerald said: "I think they should."
"Commercial ships should take appropriate protections," he added, "because we cannot offer 100-percent guarantees of protection as the ships go through."
Fitzgerald also recommended tracking the spoils of successful piracy operations. "I think we'd be able to trace the financiers [and] the middlemen," he said.
ANHAM FZCO, LLC Awarded $2.2 Billion U.S. Department of Defense Contract to Support Troops in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan
April 16, 2010 - Washington, DC – Today, the United States Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) announced that it has awarded an estimated $2.2 billion contract, including options enclosed for the contract term, to ANHAM FZCO, LLC to provide full-line food and non-food distribution and support to Department of Defense customers in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan.
ANHAM has issued the following statement:
“It is with great gratitude and a compelling sense of duty that all at ANHAM welcome the award to expand our support for those serving in the Middle East. We have a long track record of meeting and exceeding the contract requirements and expectations of our clients, the United States Government, and all stakeholders. Our capable team will continue to build upon its legacy of delivering the best services at the best value to American taxpayers and the United States Government. We look forward to a continued partnership with The Department of Defense.”
About ANHAM, LLC
ANHAM, LLC ( www.anham.com ) is a leading contracting firm working throughout the Middle East and North Africa ("MENA"), Central Asia, and Europe. With more than a century's worth of experience between its principal founding companies, ANHAM is able to efficiently, effectively, and affordably deliver products and services throughout the world. Headquartered in Dubai, UAE, ANHAM has international offices that specialize in providing local support and services to its initiatives, projects, and investments across diverse regions of the globe.
ANHAM has issued the following statement:
“It is with great gratitude and a compelling sense of duty that all at ANHAM welcome the award to expand our support for those serving in the Middle East. We have a long track record of meeting and exceeding the contract requirements and expectations of our clients, the United States Government, and all stakeholders. Our capable team will continue to build upon its legacy of delivering the best services at the best value to American taxpayers and the United States Government. We look forward to a continued partnership with The Department of Defense.”
About ANHAM, LLC
ANHAM, LLC ( www.anham.com ) is a leading contracting firm working throughout the Middle East and North Africa ("MENA"), Central Asia, and Europe. With more than a century's worth of experience between its principal founding companies, ANHAM is able to efficiently, effectively, and affordably deliver products and services throughout the world. Headquartered in Dubai, UAE, ANHAM has international offices that specialize in providing local support and services to its initiatives, projects, and investments across diverse regions of the globe.
Multi-state effort supports West African partner
By Tech. Sgt. Dan Heaton
Michigan National Guard
(4/12/10) -- Air National Guardsmen from three states are working together to support a new partnership with the west African nation of Ghana. A detachment of Airmen from the Michigan Air National Guard's 127th Civil Engineering Squadron arrived here on April 8 to work on a construction project here at the Acota air base.
They worked alongside a contingent of Guardsmen from the North Dakota Air National Guard, who are at the worksite managing the overall project.
After the Michigan CES team works at the site for about two weeks, a similar team from North Dakota will pick up where Michigan left off.
"Working with our Ghana partners is a way to build up goodwill and camaraderie between the two nations," said Maj. John Gibbs, the base civil engineer with North Dakota's Civil Engineering Squadron from the 119th Fighter Wing.
The Michigan Guardsmen were transported to Ghana by a KC-135 Stratotanker operated by the 190th Air Refueling Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard. The Kansas Coyotes flew with an additional crew to accommodate the long flight from Selfridge to the Lajes Field in the Azores Islands in the mid-Atlantic Ocean and then on to Ghana.
For most of the Guardsmen involved, arriving in Ghana marked a first visit to the African continent.
"It was a new experience for us," said Senior Master Sgt. Doug Copeland, one of three Kansas Guardsmen, who served as crew chiefs for the flight to Ghana. "No one on our crew had ever landed in Africa before."
The mission to Ghana is a part of the National Guard's State Partnership Program which pairs state National Guards with emerging nations to help support stable governments and build relations between the two nations.
Ghana recently became a partner with North Dakota. Michigan is establishing a partnership with Liberia, a neighboring nation to Ghana. The Michigan Guard has also enjoyed a long partnership with Latvia in eastern Europe.
Air Guard engineers say planning the key for Africa trip
By TSgt. Dan Heaton
Michigan National Guard
(4/12/10) -- As the owner of a small industrial and commercial construction company, Jeff Talaga has developed plenty of building plans. Few, however, have proven as challenging as the project he worked on in Africa, while wearing the uniform of the Michigan Air National Guard.
Master Sgt. Talaga served as the noncommissioned officer in charge of the re-construction of a technical school building here on Akota air base during an April deployment with the 127th Civil Engineering Squadron.
"This is definitely not a traditional construction project," he said during a break from the work. "What works at home, may not be able to work here."
A detachment of about 30 personnel from Selfridge Air National Guard Base made the trip to Africa to work on the project. The team had to bring all of their own tools and small building supplies, such as bolts and fasteners, with them from home.
They also had to deal with stifling heat and humidity, which limited work hours during the day.
"Part of the challenge was we really didn't know what to expect when we get here. As an example, I've never had to deal with mixing concrete in the heat and humidity of Africa," Talaga said. "Fortunately, the Ghanians have been very easy to work with. When we ordered a concrete mixer, the man who owned the machine came along with it and provided some guidance."
Talaga has been a member of the Michigan Air National Guard since 1984 and now serves as the superintendent of the structural shop for the 127th.
"This unit has been through a number of deployments together over the years," said Maj. Tom Sierakowski, the officer in charge during the Ghana trip. "We have people like Talaga, who have developed a great deal of expertise, and we are able to rely on that during a challenging project such as this one."
Talaga said being in the Guard provides him a perfect work opportunity.
"I say I am a part-time construction company owner, part-time in the Guard and part-time stay at home dad, which works out just about how I want it," he said.
Michigan National Guard
(4/12/10) -- As the owner of a small industrial and commercial construction company, Jeff Talaga has developed plenty of building plans. Few, however, have proven as challenging as the project he worked on in Africa, while wearing the uniform of the Michigan Air National Guard.
Master Sgt. Talaga served as the noncommissioned officer in charge of the re-construction of a technical school building here on Akota air base during an April deployment with the 127th Civil Engineering Squadron.
"This is definitely not a traditional construction project," he said during a break from the work. "What works at home, may not be able to work here."
A detachment of about 30 personnel from Selfridge Air National Guard Base made the trip to Africa to work on the project. The team had to bring all of their own tools and small building supplies, such as bolts and fasteners, with them from home.
They also had to deal with stifling heat and humidity, which limited work hours during the day.
"Part of the challenge was we really didn't know what to expect when we get here. As an example, I've never had to deal with mixing concrete in the heat and humidity of Africa," Talaga said. "Fortunately, the Ghanians have been very easy to work with. When we ordered a concrete mixer, the man who owned the machine came along with it and provided some guidance."
Talaga has been a member of the Michigan Air National Guard since 1984 and now serves as the superintendent of the structural shop for the 127th.
"This unit has been through a number of deployments together over the years," said Maj. Tom Sierakowski, the officer in charge during the Ghana trip. "We have people like Talaga, who have developed a great deal of expertise, and we are able to rely on that during a challenging project such as this one."
Talaga said being in the Guard provides him a perfect work opportunity.
"I say I am a part-time construction company owner, part-time in the Guard and part-time stay at home dad, which works out just about how I want it," he said.
Enterprise Completes Fast Cruise
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark Meredith, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
April 16, 2010 - NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- The crew of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) successfully completed fast cruise April 15.
Fast cruise allows the crew to simulate being underway while still tied to the pier.
The exercise spanned four days ending earlier than scheduled due to the efforts of the crew. Enterprise set a new record completing the evolution in just 36 hours, said Capt. Ron Horton, the ship's commanding officer.
The crew executed underway watch team rotations, man overboard, general quarters, engineering and flight deck drills.
"We've been doing lots of drills to show that we know how to respond to casualties," said Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Dominic A. Musso. "We've been testing out machinery to make sure it's good and operating the way it should be."
The crew also conducted an abandon ship drill that required Sailors to muster with their departments and proceed to their life raft stations.
The drills ensure the crew is ready for sea trials.
"Overall, we did pretty well," said Musso. "As we went through the fast cruise evolution, we got the kinks ironed out. We found out where we had the hiccups, and corrected them so we'll be ready for sea trials."
The ship will next leave Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard and conduct intense at-sea maneuvering and test every system to ensure mission capability.
"I'm extremely happy to be leaving the shipyard after two years," said Musso. "It's been fun to see the whole orchestra finally come together."
With the completion of fast cruise, the crew of "Big E" is looking ahead to sea trials and the testing, evaluation and certification period, known as "workups," as the crew continues to prepare Enterprise for its upcoming deployment.
USO Metro Celebrates Exceptional Troops, Volunteers
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service
April 15, 2010 - Military leaders and a host of celebrities came together here yesterday to pay tribute to outstanding servicemembers and other special honorees at a star-studded event. The USO of Metropolitan Washington hosted its 28th annual awards dinner at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, a night devoted to USO supporters -– military and civilian -- for their volunteerism and dedication in support of servicemembers and their families.
"Who needs you the most? We ask ourselves a very simple question," Sloan Gibson, USO president, said before an audience of more than 500 guests. "Our mission is to lift the spirit of America's troops and families, ... our wounded warriors, and families of the fallen. There is no organization, anywhere, better suited to take care of our wounded warriors and their families than USO Metro."
USO Metro assists some 300,000 local servicemembers through fundraising, celebrity meet-and-greets, concerts and other morale-bolstering programs. The nonprofit organization also operates airport lounges at several local airports and military hospitals to give troops a little comfort and care during their travels and rehabilitation.
Several individuals were recognized at the dinner for their support of USO outreach programs.
Actor-musician brothers Kevin and Michael Bacon shared the night's top honor and were recognized for donating their time to troops. They often visit wounded warriors recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
James L. Jones Jr., national security advisor and retired Marine Corps general, and L. Tammy Duckworth, assistant secretary of intergovernmental and public affairs for the Department of Veterans Affairs and disabled Army pilot, presented the USO Merit Award to the Bacon brothers.
"Each of the Bacon brothers is an accomplished entertainer, and they both exemplify the highest values of USO," Jones said. "Their commitment to our servicemembers and their families runs deep. These wonderful brothers have given so much of their time, energy and talent to visit and lift the spirit of our troops when they need it most."
The Bacon brothers said they were surprised when notified they had been chosen for the award. Visiting troops and giving their time to the USO, they said, is rewarding in itself.
"We feel like we've done very little to receive this award," Kevin said. "We're really struck by the wounded men and women who served so bravely."
USO tours help to build a connection between volunteers and the troops. USO helps to put servicemembers' experiences in perspective for those who may not fully realize what they've been through, Michael said.
"The history of the organization is amazing," Michael said. "Kevin and I are so honored to even be considered as a part of what [USO] gives back to not only our military service people, but our entire country.
"I hope that we are worthy of this award and can continue to contribute in our own small way through our music and performing and visiting people who are hurt," he added.
While much of the evening recognized USO efforts in support of recovering servicemembers, it's important not to forget those who are currently deployed throughout the world, said Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
"I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that there were some 210,000 [troops] serving as we speak around the world, many in harm's way," the admiral said. "They give us the opportunity to celebrate as we have tonight. ... We should never forget, and keep them in our hearts and prayers."
Besides the Bacon brothers, the list of celebrity USO supporters attending last night included television personality and U.S. Naval Academy graduate Montel Williams, National Football League Hall of Fame offensive lineman Anthony Munoz, Miss American 2010 Caressa Cameron and author and professional wrestler Mick Foley.
Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad W. Allen and Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston also attended, and the 82nd Airborne Division All American Chorus performed.
Other awards and recognitions included:
-- Army Col. Gordon R. Roberts, commander of the Medical Center Brigade at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, received the John Gioia Patriot Award. Roberts is a regular USO volunteer, whose military career spans more than 40 years. He's also the only Medal of Honor recipient serving on active duty.
-- The Professional Golfers Association Tour received the Legacy of Hope award, named for long-time USO supporter Bob Hope. The PGA Tour was recognized for its Birdies for the Brave program, which raises money for military charities.
-- Army National Guard Master Sgt. Robert Sutherland received the USO Metro Special Salute. Sutherland is a Vietnam War veteran who was wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.
-- Army 1st Lt. Mark Wise received the USO Metro Special Salute. Wise was recognized for heroic actions under fire in Afghanistan.
-- Marine Corps Cpl. Jeremy Stengel received the USO Metro Special Salute. Stengel was recognized for volunteer service to the USO. He was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq.
-- Navy Petty Officer 1st Class David F. Brown received the USO Metro Special Salute. Brown was injured by an indirect-fire attack in Afghanistan.
-- Air Force Staff Sgt. David Flowers received the USO Metro Special Salute. Flowers stepped on an enemy land mine in Afghanistan
-- Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Munk received the USO Metro Special Salute for his actions as part of relief efforts in support of earthquake-ravaged Haiti.
Another highlight of the night was the announcement of plans to build two new USO centers. A new center at the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center will break ground this summer in Bethesda. A new facility at Fort Belvoir, Va., also is in the works, Elaine Rogers, USO Metro president said.
Both are expected to be complete, up and running by September 2011, Rogers said. The new centers will help to expand USO services to wounded warriors recovering at area military hospitals, she said.
American Forces Press Service
April 15, 2010 - Military leaders and a host of celebrities came together here yesterday to pay tribute to outstanding servicemembers and other special honorees at a star-studded event. The USO of Metropolitan Washington hosted its 28th annual awards dinner at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, a night devoted to USO supporters -– military and civilian -- for their volunteerism and dedication in support of servicemembers and their families.
"Who needs you the most? We ask ourselves a very simple question," Sloan Gibson, USO president, said before an audience of more than 500 guests. "Our mission is to lift the spirit of America's troops and families, ... our wounded warriors, and families of the fallen. There is no organization, anywhere, better suited to take care of our wounded warriors and their families than USO Metro."
USO Metro assists some 300,000 local servicemembers through fundraising, celebrity meet-and-greets, concerts and other morale-bolstering programs. The nonprofit organization also operates airport lounges at several local airports and military hospitals to give troops a little comfort and care during their travels and rehabilitation.
Several individuals were recognized at the dinner for their support of USO outreach programs.
Actor-musician brothers Kevin and Michael Bacon shared the night's top honor and were recognized for donating their time to troops. They often visit wounded warriors recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
James L. Jones Jr., national security advisor and retired Marine Corps general, and L. Tammy Duckworth, assistant secretary of intergovernmental and public affairs for the Department of Veterans Affairs and disabled Army pilot, presented the USO Merit Award to the Bacon brothers.
"Each of the Bacon brothers is an accomplished entertainer, and they both exemplify the highest values of USO," Jones said. "Their commitment to our servicemembers and their families runs deep. These wonderful brothers have given so much of their time, energy and talent to visit and lift the spirit of our troops when they need it most."
The Bacon brothers said they were surprised when notified they had been chosen for the award. Visiting troops and giving their time to the USO, they said, is rewarding in itself.
"We feel like we've done very little to receive this award," Kevin said. "We're really struck by the wounded men and women who served so bravely."
USO tours help to build a connection between volunteers and the troops. USO helps to put servicemembers' experiences in perspective for those who may not fully realize what they've been through, Michael said.
"The history of the organization is amazing," Michael said. "Kevin and I are so honored to even be considered as a part of what [USO] gives back to not only our military service people, but our entire country.
"I hope that we are worthy of this award and can continue to contribute in our own small way through our music and performing and visiting people who are hurt," he added.
While much of the evening recognized USO efforts in support of recovering servicemembers, it's important not to forget those who are currently deployed throughout the world, said Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
"I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that there were some 210,000 [troops] serving as we speak around the world, many in harm's way," the admiral said. "They give us the opportunity to celebrate as we have tonight. ... We should never forget, and keep them in our hearts and prayers."
Besides the Bacon brothers, the list of celebrity USO supporters attending last night included television personality and U.S. Naval Academy graduate Montel Williams, National Football League Hall of Fame offensive lineman Anthony Munoz, Miss American 2010 Caressa Cameron and author and professional wrestler Mick Foley.
Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad W. Allen and Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston also attended, and the 82nd Airborne Division All American Chorus performed.
Other awards and recognitions included:
-- Army Col. Gordon R. Roberts, commander of the Medical Center Brigade at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, received the John Gioia Patriot Award. Roberts is a regular USO volunteer, whose military career spans more than 40 years. He's also the only Medal of Honor recipient serving on active duty.
-- The Professional Golfers Association Tour received the Legacy of Hope award, named for long-time USO supporter Bob Hope. The PGA Tour was recognized for its Birdies for the Brave program, which raises money for military charities.
-- Army National Guard Master Sgt. Robert Sutherland received the USO Metro Special Salute. Sutherland is a Vietnam War veteran who was wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.
-- Army 1st Lt. Mark Wise received the USO Metro Special Salute. Wise was recognized for heroic actions under fire in Afghanistan.
-- Marine Corps Cpl. Jeremy Stengel received the USO Metro Special Salute. Stengel was recognized for volunteer service to the USO. He was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq.
-- Navy Petty Officer 1st Class David F. Brown received the USO Metro Special Salute. Brown was injured by an indirect-fire attack in Afghanistan.
-- Air Force Staff Sgt. David Flowers received the USO Metro Special Salute. Flowers stepped on an enemy land mine in Afghanistan
-- Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Munk received the USO Metro Special Salute for his actions as part of relief efforts in support of earthquake-ravaged Haiti.
Another highlight of the night was the announcement of plans to build two new USO centers. A new center at the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center will break ground this summer in Bethesda. A new facility at Fort Belvoir, Va., also is in the works, Elaine Rogers, USO Metro president said.
Both are expected to be complete, up and running by September 2011, Rogers said. The new centers will help to expand USO services to wounded warriors recovering at area military hospitals, she said.
Northcom Nominee Pledges to Focus on Relationships
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
April 15, 2010 - Navy Vice Adm. James "Sandy" Winnefeld Jr. told a Senate committee today that if confirmed to head U.S. Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command, he will work to build and maintain the command's relationships he called critical to the mission.
"I've observed that there are no other combatant commands where support for their partners [is] more important than these two," Winnefeld told the Senate Armed Services Committee. "My assignments have prepared me for this task."
Winnefeld, President Barack Obama's nominee to head the commands, is a Navy fighter pilot and former commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet, USS Cleveland and USS Enterprise. He led the Enterprise through combat operations supporting operations in Afghanistan immediately after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. Currently, he serves as a senior member of the U.S. delegation to the U.N. Military Staff Committee and as the director of strategic plans and policy on the Joint Staff.
The admiral said he would work to maintain the commands' strong working relationships with other U.S. federal agencies, Canada and Mexico. He also singled out the U.S. reserve components.
"Our nation's Guard and reserve have never been better, and I look forward to a strong personal relationship with them," he said. The deputy commander of Northcom and NORAD, Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, is the former chief of the National Guard Bureau.
Winnefeld said Northcom's continued support along the U.S.-Mexico border would be one of his first priorities if the Senate confirms him for the post.
"I've been watching very closely, and, if confirmed, I will really burrow into it," he said to Arizona Sen. John McCain, who had asked him about support for Mexico in battling drug cartels. "I would welcome accompanying you down there. I very much want to get down there myself and see what's going on."
Winnefeld said he is concerned that the cartels, which are accused of 6,500 murders in Mexico last year and 2,000 so far this year, are threatening the Mexican government and U.S. national security, and that he agrees with U.S. support to Mexican President Felipe Calderon's government, which he said has exhibited "extremely good leadership and courage."
"It's a tremendous sign of our partnership with Mexico," he added, "and I'm honored to have the ability to work with them."
Michigan Sen. Carl Levin, chairman of the committee, asked Winnefeld whether Obama's revamped missile defense plan in Europe would make the United States safer from a potential long-range missile strike from Iran.
"It would provide a much earlier warning of an attack from Iran, and more time for the United States to counter a threat," the admiral said. "That's the most important part."
American Forces Press Service
April 15, 2010 - Navy Vice Adm. James "Sandy" Winnefeld Jr. told a Senate committee today that if confirmed to head U.S. Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command, he will work to build and maintain the command's relationships he called critical to the mission.
"I've observed that there are no other combatant commands where support for their partners [is] more important than these two," Winnefeld told the Senate Armed Services Committee. "My assignments have prepared me for this task."
Winnefeld, President Barack Obama's nominee to head the commands, is a Navy fighter pilot and former commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet, USS Cleveland and USS Enterprise. He led the Enterprise through combat operations supporting operations in Afghanistan immediately after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. Currently, he serves as a senior member of the U.S. delegation to the U.N. Military Staff Committee and as the director of strategic plans and policy on the Joint Staff.
The admiral said he would work to maintain the commands' strong working relationships with other U.S. federal agencies, Canada and Mexico. He also singled out the U.S. reserve components.
"Our nation's Guard and reserve have never been better, and I look forward to a strong personal relationship with them," he said. The deputy commander of Northcom and NORAD, Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, is the former chief of the National Guard Bureau.
Winnefeld said Northcom's continued support along the U.S.-Mexico border would be one of his first priorities if the Senate confirms him for the post.
"I've been watching very closely, and, if confirmed, I will really burrow into it," he said to Arizona Sen. John McCain, who had asked him about support for Mexico in battling drug cartels. "I would welcome accompanying you down there. I very much want to get down there myself and see what's going on."
Winnefeld said he is concerned that the cartels, which are accused of 6,500 murders in Mexico last year and 2,000 so far this year, are threatening the Mexican government and U.S. national security, and that he agrees with U.S. support to Mexican President Felipe Calderon's government, which he said has exhibited "extremely good leadership and courage."
"It's a tremendous sign of our partnership with Mexico," he added, "and I'm honored to have the ability to work with them."
Michigan Sen. Carl Levin, chairman of the committee, asked Winnefeld whether Obama's revamped missile defense plan in Europe would make the United States safer from a potential long-range missile strike from Iran.
"It would provide a much earlier warning of an attack from Iran, and more time for the United States to counter a threat," the admiral said. "That's the most important part."
Keesler chief to compete in Warrior Games
by Tech. Sgt. Gregory Washburn
81st Training Wing Public Affairs
April 16, 2010 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. - Damian Orslene, 81st Training Support Squadron superintendent, is one of only 20 Airmen and veterans to participate in the inaugural Warrior Games, May 10-14, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
An estimated 200 athletes are selected proportionally from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard according to the Warrior Games Web site. Participants are chosen by each individual branch of service.
Orslene originally learned of the Warrior Games "sitting at my desk one day. I get the wounded warrior bulletin and in the newsletter it mentioned the Warrior Games."
Swimming was part of the therapy during his recovery from "multiple injuries sustained in Iraq," said Orslene. "Now I swim a mile three or four times a week."
Due to a lack of swimming participants for the Air Force, Orslene said the Air Force service representative was excited to learn that he's a swimmer.
"Yes, he's swimming a mile!" Orslene heard on the other end of the phone line while discussing his training with the Air Force service representative. "Then I got scared because I got excited too. I'm a triathlete, an athlete my whole life ... this would be great if I could be an athlete again."
These inaugural games are part of a joint effort between the Department of Defense and the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Athletes competing in the Warrior Games have sustained injuries including upper body injuries, lower body injuries, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress.
According to the Warrior Games Web site, "The Warrior Games provide a focal event to empower the incorporation of athletics into military wounded warrior programs, and provide an opportunity to introduce paralympic sports to injured service members, while at the same time building camaraderie and raising awareness of paralympic competition and adaptive sports in general."
In addition to swimming, events include shooting, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, track, wheelchair basketball, discus and shot put. In addition to winners in each event, there'll be an "Ultimate Warrior" competition in a pentathlon format and service team scoring for a rotating Chairman's Cup.
81st Training Wing Public Affairs
April 16, 2010 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. - Damian Orslene, 81st Training Support Squadron superintendent, is one of only 20 Airmen and veterans to participate in the inaugural Warrior Games, May 10-14, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
An estimated 200 athletes are selected proportionally from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard according to the Warrior Games Web site. Participants are chosen by each individual branch of service.
Orslene originally learned of the Warrior Games "sitting at my desk one day. I get the wounded warrior bulletin and in the newsletter it mentioned the Warrior Games."
Swimming was part of the therapy during his recovery from "multiple injuries sustained in Iraq," said Orslene. "Now I swim a mile three or four times a week."
Due to a lack of swimming participants for the Air Force, Orslene said the Air Force service representative was excited to learn that he's a swimmer.
"Yes, he's swimming a mile!" Orslene heard on the other end of the phone line while discussing his training with the Air Force service representative. "Then I got scared because I got excited too. I'm a triathlete, an athlete my whole life ... this would be great if I could be an athlete again."
These inaugural games are part of a joint effort between the Department of Defense and the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Athletes competing in the Warrior Games have sustained injuries including upper body injuries, lower body injuries, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress.
According to the Warrior Games Web site, "The Warrior Games provide a focal event to empower the incorporation of athletics into military wounded warrior programs, and provide an opportunity to introduce paralympic sports to injured service members, while at the same time building camaraderie and raising awareness of paralympic competition and adaptive sports in general."
In addition to swimming, events include shooting, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, track, wheelchair basketball, discus and shot put. In addition to winners in each event, there'll be an "Ultimate Warrior" competition in a pentathlon format and service team scoring for a rotating Chairman's Cup.
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