By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Marcus L. Stanley, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Public Affairs
PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducted a live-fire missile exercise July 9 while underway for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010, a biennial multinational exercise designed to strengthen operational readiness and improve multinational interoperability.
"To be the one to actually fire the missile was great," said Fire Controlman 2nd Class Caleb Scott. "It's very rare that we get to do this, and we've put in a lot of man hours preparing for this."
During the firing exercise, Bonhomme Richard launched a NATO Sea Sparrow RIM-7P missile, giving the ship credit for a live missile shoot.
Two teams stood by ready to fire, and as the launch took place Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines, along with an array of multinational militaries on board the ship, had the opportunity to witness the firing.
"It was an amazing event to see," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Raphael Hobson. "That was my first time ever experiencing something like that."
In preparation for the firing, Combat Systems Fire Control 4 workcenter completed more than 50 maintenance checks, more than 300 hours of pre-fire requirement checks and more than 100 hours of troubleshooting faults to ensure that the missile systems were up to standards to conduct a safe missile firing.
"Our guys put in a lot of time getting ready for the firing," said Fire Controlman (SW/AW) Chief Jose Zertuche. "Everyone was a major contributor, from the maintenance guys to those who were a part of the administration portion in getting ready for this."
Zertuche added that anytime you are conducting missile shoots safety is paramount, and every safety precaution was taken into consideration during the exercise.
"What a great day of training aboard such a magnificent warship," said Capt. John W. Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer. "Superb efforts went in from everyone that participated in the missile exercise, and a Bravo Zulu goes out to everyone for successful completion of such a challenging event."
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Bonhomme Richard Sailors Lend a Helping Hand
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph Ebalo, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) participated in various community service projects June 28 to July 2 during a port visit to Pearl Harbor, in conjunction with the biennial multinational Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010 exercise.
During their stay, more than 50 Sailors volunteered their time to help out the local community with four different community service events on and off Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
Sailors rolled up their sleeves and assisted in the preservation of the Battleship Missouri Memorial and performed landscaping and restoration at the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Waimea Valley Historical Nature Park and He'eia Stream.
"In addition to sightseeing and enjoying the local nightlife, I wanted to do something constructive with my free time, so I volunteered to help out at more than one event," said Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class (AW/SW) Albert Vencer. "Being from Warren, Michigan, I never imagined I would ever be in Hawaii helping clear out a hiking path through the mountains, waterfalls and jungle. The sun was really hot out there and the mosquitoes were biting, but it was worth it. I enjoyed myself, and I found a new way to experience the island."
For some of the junior volunteers, it was their first time participating in the community relations projects, but not their last.
"I honestly had a lot more fun volunteering than I thought I was going to have," said Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Jakarta Henderson, a native of Augusta, Ga. "It was hard physical work, but it felt really good to help out and it was encouraging to see many of the senior Sailors leading by example in their off time. I was proud to represent our ship alongside them, and I'm looking forward to doing more in the future."
The community service effort of Bonhomme Richard's Sailors made an immediate impact on the locals.
"The work the Sailors put in will benefit the natural environment of Hawaii as well as the locals and tourists alike for decades," said Laurent Pool, Waimea Valley Historical Nature Park Conservation land specialist. "By clearing out the hiking paths we are able to identify and protect our endangered plants and trees and, most importantly, educate our kids and community on our beautiful surroundings. We are extremely grateful for their help and thank them for their service to our country and to Hawaii."
RIMPAC is the world's largest multinational maritime exercise, with 14 nations, 32 ships and more than 20,000 personnel participating in RIMPAC 2010. A biennial exercise, RIMPAC stresses the necessity of operational readiness in the Pacific and the sentiment that building relationships with our global partners ensures maritime freedom for all. This year marks the 22nd in a series of RIMPAC exercises conducted since 1971.
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) participated in various community service projects June 28 to July 2 during a port visit to Pearl Harbor, in conjunction with the biennial multinational Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010 exercise.
During their stay, more than 50 Sailors volunteered their time to help out the local community with four different community service events on and off Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
Sailors rolled up their sleeves and assisted in the preservation of the Battleship Missouri Memorial and performed landscaping and restoration at the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Waimea Valley Historical Nature Park and He'eia Stream.
"In addition to sightseeing and enjoying the local nightlife, I wanted to do something constructive with my free time, so I volunteered to help out at more than one event," said Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class (AW/SW) Albert Vencer. "Being from Warren, Michigan, I never imagined I would ever be in Hawaii helping clear out a hiking path through the mountains, waterfalls and jungle. The sun was really hot out there and the mosquitoes were biting, but it was worth it. I enjoyed myself, and I found a new way to experience the island."
For some of the junior volunteers, it was their first time participating in the community relations projects, but not their last.
"I honestly had a lot more fun volunteering than I thought I was going to have," said Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Jakarta Henderson, a native of Augusta, Ga. "It was hard physical work, but it felt really good to help out and it was encouraging to see many of the senior Sailors leading by example in their off time. I was proud to represent our ship alongside them, and I'm looking forward to doing more in the future."
The community service effort of Bonhomme Richard's Sailors made an immediate impact on the locals.
"The work the Sailors put in will benefit the natural environment of Hawaii as well as the locals and tourists alike for decades," said Laurent Pool, Waimea Valley Historical Nature Park Conservation land specialist. "By clearing out the hiking paths we are able to identify and protect our endangered plants and trees and, most importantly, educate our kids and community on our beautiful surroundings. We are extremely grateful for their help and thank them for their service to our country and to Hawaii."
RIMPAC is the world's largest multinational maritime exercise, with 14 nations, 32 ships and more than 20,000 personnel participating in RIMPAC 2010. A biennial exercise, RIMPAC stresses the necessity of operational readiness in the Pacific and the sentiment that building relationships with our global partners ensures maritime freedom for all. This year marks the 22nd in a series of RIMPAC exercises conducted since 1971.
National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of July 13, 2010
This week the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard announced a decrease in activated reservists, while the Navy announced no change. The net collective result is 1,818 fewer reservists activated than last week.
At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 90,144; Navy Reserve, 6,354; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 16,457; Marine Corps Reserve, 4,917; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 787. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 118,659, including both units and individual augmentees.
A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found online at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100713ngr.pdf
At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 90,144; Navy Reserve, 6,354; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 16,457; Marine Corps Reserve, 4,917; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 787. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 118,659, including both units and individual augmentees.
A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found online at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100713ngr.pdf
U.S., Korean Leaders to Meet in Seoul
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 14, 2010 - The defense and foreign ministers of the United States and South Korea will meet next week to discuss joint exercises between the two nations and a recently announced delay in the transfer of operational wartime control of forces on the Korean peninsula to the South Korean military, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will join with South Korean Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan and Defense Minister Kim Tae-young in the first "2-plus-2" meetings in the South Korean capital of Seoul on July 21, Morrell said.
The talks will address the full range of security and alliance issues, including development of the new operational control transfer implementation plan and other enhancements to military readiness and deterrence, Morrell added during a Pentagon news conference.
South Korea already is a strong and close treaty ally, Morrell said, but since the unprovoked attack and sinking of the South Korean frigate Cheonan in March, President Barack Obama directed the Defense Department to further strengthen cooperation.
"Ever since," Morrell added, "we have been engaged in high-level, close consultations in an effort to devise additional ways to bolster alliance capabilities and improve regional stability."
Part of the 2-plus-2 talks will be to approve a proposed series of U.S.-South Korean combined military exercises, including new naval and air exercises in both the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea.
"We are not yet ready to announce the precise details of those exercises," Morrell said, "but they will involve a wide range of assets and are expected to be initiated in the near future. They will augment already planned bilateral exercises."
The exercises will be defensive in nature, but will send an unmistakable signal to North Korean leaders and "will send a clear message of deterrence to North Korea and demonstrate our steadfast commitment to the defense of South Korea," he said.
The South Korean military had been scheduled to take wartime operational control of forces on the peninsula in April 2012. Obama and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak agreed in Toronto last month to delay the transfer to December 2015.
"We think, from a warfighting control perspective, that the [South Korean] military would be capable of taking over operational control at the original date," Morrell said, but he added that delaying the process makes sense.
"By doing so, we would be able to sort of broaden the scope of what is transferred, and we would be able to better synchronize some of those transformation efforts," he explained.
Officials in both countries will work to perfect the South Korean military's force management, defense reform and ground operations command efforts, Morrell said.
American Forces Press Service
July 14, 2010 - The defense and foreign ministers of the United States and South Korea will meet next week to discuss joint exercises between the two nations and a recently announced delay in the transfer of operational wartime control of forces on the Korean peninsula to the South Korean military, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will join with South Korean Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan and Defense Minister Kim Tae-young in the first "2-plus-2" meetings in the South Korean capital of Seoul on July 21, Morrell said.
The talks will address the full range of security and alliance issues, including development of the new operational control transfer implementation plan and other enhancements to military readiness and deterrence, Morrell added during a Pentagon news conference.
South Korea already is a strong and close treaty ally, Morrell said, but since the unprovoked attack and sinking of the South Korean frigate Cheonan in March, President Barack Obama directed the Defense Department to further strengthen cooperation.
"Ever since," Morrell added, "we have been engaged in high-level, close consultations in an effort to devise additional ways to bolster alliance capabilities and improve regional stability."
Part of the 2-plus-2 talks will be to approve a proposed series of U.S.-South Korean combined military exercises, including new naval and air exercises in both the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea.
"We are not yet ready to announce the precise details of those exercises," Morrell said, "but they will involve a wide range of assets and are expected to be initiated in the near future. They will augment already planned bilateral exercises."
The exercises will be defensive in nature, but will send an unmistakable signal to North Korean leaders and "will send a clear message of deterrence to North Korea and demonstrate our steadfast commitment to the defense of South Korea," he said.
The South Korean military had been scheduled to take wartime operational control of forces on the peninsula in April 2012. Obama and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak agreed in Toronto last month to delay the transfer to December 2015.
"We think, from a warfighting control perspective, that the [South Korean] military would be capable of taking over operational control at the original date," Morrell said, but he added that delaying the process makes sense.
"By doing so, we would be able to sort of broaden the scope of what is transferred, and we would be able to better synchronize some of those transformation efforts," he explained.
Officials in both countries will work to perfect the South Korean military's force management, defense reform and ground operations command efforts, Morrell said.
USS Curts Returns to San Diego
From USS Curts (FFG 38) Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Curts (FFG 38) will return to San Diego July 16 completing an independent, six-month deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR).
The deployment was defined by extensive participation with coalition forces across the entire spectrum of maritime operations.
Curts' efforts fostered strong diplomatic and military relations with regional partners in support of mutual interests on the high seas.
"We are immensely proud to have been afforded the opportunity to serve our Navy and our nation abroad," said Cmdr. H. Thomas Workman, Curts' commanding officer. "This crew trained with passion, intensity and success to ensure preparedness for all operational challenges that we encountered. Those preparations coupled with selfless dedication allowed Curts to succeed in every assigned mission."
While conducting 5th Fleet missions, Curts operated as part of multiple coalition task forces, ensuring the safety of merchant shipping traffic within the internationally recognized trade corridor across the Gulf of Aden, Bab el-Mandeb Straits and Red Sea.
Along with coalition partners, Curts provided force protection and emergency medical support to distressed merchant vessels. These efforts are designed to improve maritime stability within the region and protect free use of the sea lanes by thwarting the activities of violent extremists and criminal organizations.
Additionally, Curts conducted four Suez Canal transits, two exercises with the Egyptian Navy and participated in Exercise Malabar 2010, a week-long bilateral military exercise which aims to promote the interoperability of the U.S. Navy and Indian Navy.
In support of 7th Fleet, Curts conducted various freedom of navigation exercises; economic exclusion zone patrols and port visits to Guam; Sepangar, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; and Male, Maldives.
In Malaysia, the crew joined the Rotary Club in extensive maintenance and repair of the Kota Kinabalu Orphanage. In Thailand, 35 Curts Sailors joined the Navy League and local Rotary Club in extensive landscaping refurbishment at a local school and orphanage which were devastated during the 2004 tsunami.
Curts helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile AOR in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Curts (FFG 38) will return to San Diego July 16 completing an independent, six-month deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR).
The deployment was defined by extensive participation with coalition forces across the entire spectrum of maritime operations.
Curts' efforts fostered strong diplomatic and military relations with regional partners in support of mutual interests on the high seas.
"We are immensely proud to have been afforded the opportunity to serve our Navy and our nation abroad," said Cmdr. H. Thomas Workman, Curts' commanding officer. "This crew trained with passion, intensity and success to ensure preparedness for all operational challenges that we encountered. Those preparations coupled with selfless dedication allowed Curts to succeed in every assigned mission."
While conducting 5th Fleet missions, Curts operated as part of multiple coalition task forces, ensuring the safety of merchant shipping traffic within the internationally recognized trade corridor across the Gulf of Aden, Bab el-Mandeb Straits and Red Sea.
Along with coalition partners, Curts provided force protection and emergency medical support to distressed merchant vessels. These efforts are designed to improve maritime stability within the region and protect free use of the sea lanes by thwarting the activities of violent extremists and criminal organizations.
Additionally, Curts conducted four Suez Canal transits, two exercises with the Egyptian Navy and participated in Exercise Malabar 2010, a week-long bilateral military exercise which aims to promote the interoperability of the U.S. Navy and Indian Navy.
In support of 7th Fleet, Curts conducted various freedom of navigation exercises; economic exclusion zone patrols and port visits to Guam; Sepangar, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; and Male, Maldives.
In Malaysia, the crew joined the Rotary Club in extensive maintenance and repair of the Kota Kinabalu Orphanage. In Thailand, 35 Curts Sailors joined the Navy League and local Rotary Club in extensive landscaping refurbishment at a local school and orphanage which were devastated during the 2004 tsunami.
Curts helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile AOR in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.
Lack of Supplemental Funding Poses Problems for Pentagon
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 14, 2010 - Because Congress has yet to pass a supplemental funding bill, the Defense Department must start taking measures to ensure uninterrupted war operations, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
If Congress doesn't act on the fiscal 2010 request for supplemental war funding, Defense Department employees may not get paid, Morrell said during a news conference.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is disappointed that Congress did not pass the supplemental spending bill before its Fourth of July break, Morrell told reporters.
"He's very concerned about the predicament that puts us in," he said. "And in order to assure that war operations are not interrupted, the services will now have to begin cash-flowing operating costs for war activities using their base budgets." This means that the services will begin borrowing money from fourth-quarter accounts to pay for current obligations, but even that won't be enough, he added.
"We project that certain Army and Marine Corps accounts will run dry in August," Morrell said. "So we urgently need Congress to pass the supplemental before members leave town for the next break in August."
In the meantime, he added, the department is obligated to begin planning what to do if Congress does not pass the spending measure. "Needless to say, all of this is extraordinarily disruptive to the department," he said.
This is not the first time this has happened, Morrell said. "While we have faced this circumstance in years past, the situation we find ourselves in this year is much more difficult, because it comes so late in the fiscal year," he explained. The fiscal year ends Sept. 30.
"The department has a supreme obligation to protect this nation and support the hundreds of thousands of personnel that are deployed in harm's way," Morrell said. "We will take every step possible to fulfill these obligations in the months ahead until this matter is settled in Washington.
"It may involve asking a lot of hard-working people in this department to report to duty without an ability to pay them, or other extreme measures we would rather avoid," he continued. "But we will get the job done, including in Iraq and Afghanistan and wherever else we operate around the world."
American Forces Press Service
July 14, 2010 - Because Congress has yet to pass a supplemental funding bill, the Defense Department must start taking measures to ensure uninterrupted war operations, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
If Congress doesn't act on the fiscal 2010 request for supplemental war funding, Defense Department employees may not get paid, Morrell said during a news conference.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is disappointed that Congress did not pass the supplemental spending bill before its Fourth of July break, Morrell told reporters.
"He's very concerned about the predicament that puts us in," he said. "And in order to assure that war operations are not interrupted, the services will now have to begin cash-flowing operating costs for war activities using their base budgets." This means that the services will begin borrowing money from fourth-quarter accounts to pay for current obligations, but even that won't be enough, he added.
"We project that certain Army and Marine Corps accounts will run dry in August," Morrell said. "So we urgently need Congress to pass the supplemental before members leave town for the next break in August."
In the meantime, he added, the department is obligated to begin planning what to do if Congress does not pass the spending measure. "Needless to say, all of this is extraordinarily disruptive to the department," he said.
This is not the first time this has happened, Morrell said. "While we have faced this circumstance in years past, the situation we find ourselves in this year is much more difficult, because it comes so late in the fiscal year," he explained. The fiscal year ends Sept. 30.
"The department has a supreme obligation to protect this nation and support the hundreds of thousands of personnel that are deployed in harm's way," Morrell said. "We will take every step possible to fulfill these obligations in the months ahead until this matter is settled in Washington.
"It may involve asking a lot of hard-working people in this department to report to duty without an ability to pay them, or other extreme measures we would rather avoid," he continued. "But we will get the job done, including in Iraq and Afghanistan and wherever else we operate around the world."
MILITARY CONTRACTS July 14, 2010
ARMY
Linc Government Services, LLC, Hopkinsville, Ky., and Lockheed Martin Services, Inc., Gaithersburg, Md., were awarded on July 9 a $300,000,000 firm-fixed-price, time-and-material task order contract. This acquisition is for acquiring operations and maintenance services under North American Industry Classification System Code 561210, facilities support services, to preserve and maintain government medical and non-medical real property facilities on such a condition that they may be effectively used for their designated functional purpose. This acquisition applies to medical and non-medical facilities inside and outside the contiguous U.S. This acquisition will provide operations and maintenance engineering enhancement services at highly complex facilities including in-patient medical facilities, medical research facilities, and medical facilities having unusual or complex systems that are not normally found in the typical medical facility or medical centers over 300,000 square feet in size. Work is to be performed in Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated completion date of June 21, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with eight bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity (W912DY-10-D-0049).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on July 8 a $48,215,074 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for 12,180 Bradley reactive armor skirt tiles and 435 installation kits for the Bradley fighting vehicle system. Work is to be performed in Haifa, Israel (47.4); Burlington, Vt. (23.2 percent); Niceville, Fla. (6.4 percent); Garland, Texas (6.3 percent); Lyndonville, Vt. (6 percent); Stone County, Miss. (3.6 percent); Saugerties, N.Y. (3.1 percent); College Park, Ga. (1.6 percent); Stoughton, Mass. (1 percent); Aberdeen, Md. (0.3 percent); St. Paul, Minn. (0.3 percent); Warrendale, Pa. (0.2 percent); Williamston, S.C. (0.2 percent); Austin, Texas (0.1 percent); Middletown, Iowa (0.1 percent); Montreal, Canada (0.1 percent); and Rochester, N.Y. (0.1 percent), with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2011. One bid solicited with one received. U.S Army Contracting Command, CJM-MA, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-10-C-0006).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on July 7 a $35,212,375 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is to purchase 6,180 M2E2 quick change barrel kits, providing warfighters with a faster, more accurate way to change barrels on the M2 machine gun and decreasing exposure to enemy fire. It is critical that the warfighter have the capability to quickly change the barrel and resume firing without resetting the headspace and timing, and to maneuver with the weapons in a ready-to-fire fashion. Work is to be performed in Saco, Maine, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 23, 2012. Three bids were solicited with three bids received. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munitions and Lethality Life Cycle Management Command, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-09-C-0060).
NAVY
Raytheon Technical Services Co., Reston, Va., is being awarded a $20,372,898 modification (P00070) under previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00140-05-C-0015) for services in support of the Navy Forces Surveillance Support Center relocateable over-the-horizon radar system. Work will be performed in Reston, Va. (40 percent); Texas (30 percent); and Puerto Rico (30 percent). Work is expected to be completed by July 2011. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively awarded. The Fleet and Industrial Supply Center Norfolk, Contracting Department, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics C4 Systems, Scottsdale, Ariz., is being awarded a $9,972,000 modification (P00214) under previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-02-C-2052) to purchase 120 generator environmental control unit and tent trailers. Work will be performed in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by March 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a not-to-exceed $9,653,513 undefinitized modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6247). This modification is for the procurement of 10 AN/BVY-1 Integrated Submarine Imaging Systems (ISIS). This is the first delivery order for the Technical Insertion 10 (TI-10) variant of the ISIS system to be delivered to the Navy. The ISIS provides mission critical, all-weather, visual and electronic search, digital image management, and indication, warning and platform architecture interface capabilities for attack submarine (nuclear propulsion) (SSN) SSN 688 (Los Angeles class); SSN 21 (Seawolf class); submersible, ship, guided, nuclear (SSGN Ohio class); and SSN 774 (Virginia class) submarines with potential for ship, submersible, ballistic, nuclear (SSBN) (Trident class) and potentially other submarines. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va. (32 percent); Wake Forest, N.C. (20 percent); Chantilly, Va. (19 percent); Johnstown, Pa. (12 percent); Northampton, Mass. (11 percent); Paoli, Pa. (3 percent); Eagan, Minn. (2 percent); and Middletown, R.I. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed by July 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Boeing Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Seattle, Wash., was awarded a $5,915,735 contract modification which will exercise the options for the Phase II-A production requirements of the Radar System Improvement Program capability for the Royal Saudi Air Force Airborne Warning and Control System fleet of five aircraft. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. AASSD/HBSK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (F19628-01-D-0016; Delivery order 0070; Modification 001).
Linc Government Services, LLC, Hopkinsville, Ky., and Lockheed Martin Services, Inc., Gaithersburg, Md., were awarded on July 9 a $300,000,000 firm-fixed-price, time-and-material task order contract. This acquisition is for acquiring operations and maintenance services under North American Industry Classification System Code 561210, facilities support services, to preserve and maintain government medical and non-medical real property facilities on such a condition that they may be effectively used for their designated functional purpose. This acquisition applies to medical and non-medical facilities inside and outside the contiguous U.S. This acquisition will provide operations and maintenance engineering enhancement services at highly complex facilities including in-patient medical facilities, medical research facilities, and medical facilities having unusual or complex systems that are not normally found in the typical medical facility or medical centers over 300,000 square feet in size. Work is to be performed in Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated completion date of June 21, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with eight bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity (W912DY-10-D-0049).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on July 8 a $48,215,074 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for 12,180 Bradley reactive armor skirt tiles and 435 installation kits for the Bradley fighting vehicle system. Work is to be performed in Haifa, Israel (47.4); Burlington, Vt. (23.2 percent); Niceville, Fla. (6.4 percent); Garland, Texas (6.3 percent); Lyndonville, Vt. (6 percent); Stone County, Miss. (3.6 percent); Saugerties, N.Y. (3.1 percent); College Park, Ga. (1.6 percent); Stoughton, Mass. (1 percent); Aberdeen, Md. (0.3 percent); St. Paul, Minn. (0.3 percent); Warrendale, Pa. (0.2 percent); Williamston, S.C. (0.2 percent); Austin, Texas (0.1 percent); Middletown, Iowa (0.1 percent); Montreal, Canada (0.1 percent); and Rochester, N.Y. (0.1 percent), with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2011. One bid solicited with one received. U.S Army Contracting Command, CJM-MA, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-10-C-0006).
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on July 7 a $35,212,375 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is to purchase 6,180 M2E2 quick change barrel kits, providing warfighters with a faster, more accurate way to change barrels on the M2 machine gun and decreasing exposure to enemy fire. It is critical that the warfighter have the capability to quickly change the barrel and resume firing without resetting the headspace and timing, and to maneuver with the weapons in a ready-to-fire fashion. Work is to be performed in Saco, Maine, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 23, 2012. Three bids were solicited with three bids received. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munitions and Lethality Life Cycle Management Command, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-09-C-0060).
NAVY
Raytheon Technical Services Co., Reston, Va., is being awarded a $20,372,898 modification (P00070) under previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00140-05-C-0015) for services in support of the Navy Forces Surveillance Support Center relocateable over-the-horizon radar system. Work will be performed in Reston, Va. (40 percent); Texas (30 percent); and Puerto Rico (30 percent). Work is expected to be completed by July 2011. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively awarded. The Fleet and Industrial Supply Center Norfolk, Contracting Department, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity.
General Dynamics C4 Systems, Scottsdale, Ariz., is being awarded a $9,972,000 modification (P00214) under previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-02-C-2052) to purchase 120 generator environmental control unit and tent trailers. Work will be performed in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by March 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a not-to-exceed $9,653,513 undefinitized modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6247). This modification is for the procurement of 10 AN/BVY-1 Integrated Submarine Imaging Systems (ISIS). This is the first delivery order for the Technical Insertion 10 (TI-10) variant of the ISIS system to be delivered to the Navy. The ISIS provides mission critical, all-weather, visual and electronic search, digital image management, and indication, warning and platform architecture interface capabilities for attack submarine (nuclear propulsion) (SSN) SSN 688 (Los Angeles class); SSN 21 (Seawolf class); submersible, ship, guided, nuclear (SSGN Ohio class); and SSN 774 (Virginia class) submarines with potential for ship, submersible, ballistic, nuclear (SSBN) (Trident class) and potentially other submarines. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va. (32 percent); Wake Forest, N.C. (20 percent); Chantilly, Va. (19 percent); Johnstown, Pa. (12 percent); Northampton, Mass. (11 percent); Paoli, Pa. (3 percent); Eagan, Minn. (2 percent); and Middletown, R.I. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed by July 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Boeing Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Seattle, Wash., was awarded a $5,915,735 contract modification which will exercise the options for the Phase II-A production requirements of the Radar System Improvement Program capability for the Royal Saudi Air Force Airborne Warning and Control System fleet of five aircraft. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. AASSD/HBSK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (F19628-01-D-0016; Delivery order 0070; Modification 001).
USNS John Ericsson Rescues Fishermen After Typhoon Passes Philippines
SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- Fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson's (T-AO 194) crew of civil service mariners rescued five Filipino fishermen from the South China Sea 10 miles off the coast of Luzon, Philippines, July 14.
John Ericsson's crew rescued the fishermen nine hours after their boat capsized in rough seas as Typhoon Conson passed over the island of Luzon.
Ericsson had sortied from Subic Bay to sea July 13 to avoid the storm and was returning to Subic Bay when Able Bodied Seaman Charles Wright spotted the fishermen at 1:10 p.m., clinging to their overturned banka boat and waving a yellow flag.
At 1:33 p.m., Ericsson lowered its rigid hull inflatable boat into the sea, and 10 minutes later all five fishermen were safe on Ericsson's deck, where a physician examined them.
"They were a bit shaken up because the seas were rough, but otherwise were in good health and happy to be on our ship," said Tiffany Brockman, Ericsson's chief mate. "We gave them fresh clothing, new socks and boots and a nice meal."
A few hours after their rescue, the fishermen were ashore and handed over to the care of the Philippine Coast Guard.
"The crew was pretty excited to have played a role in helping these fishermen," said Brockman, noting that the Ericsson had several Tagalog-speaking members in its crew, making communication easy. "At first, nobody was happy that we had to sortie due to the typhoon, but being able to help these mariners in need made it all worth it."
Ericsson is a Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler, crewed by 92 civil service mariners working for MSC, who operate and navigate the ship, and three sailors who provide communications support and supply coordination. The ship provides underway replenishment of fuel to Navy combat ships and jet fuel for aircraft aboard aircraft carriers at sea.
Hickam's total force integration, F-22s strengthen warfighting might in Pacific
by Staff Sgt. Mike Meares
15th Wing Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) -- Total force integration set the stage for the Hawaii National Guard, alongside Airmen from the Pacific Air Forces, as they marked the arrival of the first pair of F-22 Raptors during a ceremony here July 9.
The Raptors' arrival to the 199th Fighter Squadron and the 15th Wing marks the first Air National Guard lead F-22 association in the nation. This partnership is a "reverse association," where the active-duty counterpart will soon re-activate the 19th Fighter Squadron.
"This construct marks an important partnership between the National Guard and the active-duty forces," said Gen. Craig R. McKinley, the National Guard Bureau chief. "I couldn't be more proud ... about taking pride in total force integration. I think it's a crown jewel, in all of our services, to have this type of team spirit here in evidence today."
The ceremony marked the beginning of the newest partnership between the Hawaii Air National Guard and the active-duty Air Force flying the "fifth generation" fighter at Hickam Air Force Base. The F-22s will be flown by pilots from the 199th Fighter Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard, and active-duty pilots from the 19th Fighter Squadron. The aircraft will also be maintained by a combination of Hawaii Air National Guardsmen and active-duty Airmen.
"Total force integration is a force multiplier," said Lt. Col. Harvey Newton, the 15th Operations Group and incoming 19th Fighter Squadron commander. "We bring the best of both together and capitalize on each other's strengths. The Air National Guard has highly experienced pilots, operations personnel and maintenance professionals who are the best at what they do."
From experiences in the field and at home, Colonel Newton said he believes each group is great at what they do because they have spent years honing their trades to become the best. The active component brings a breadth of experience from around the combat air forces and a full-time work force that can be tasked at anytime.
"We have recognized the synergy that is gained from (total force integration), and it has become the Combat Air Forces model," Colonel Newton said. "The HIANG (Hawaii Air National Guard) is a highly respected ... unit and their merits stand on their own. (Total force integration) will only help the HIANG and 15th wing to reach new heights."
Those new heights will come in the way of increased operations tempo as the Hawaii F-22 squadron is only one of seven operational squadrons, Colonel Newton said.
Until now, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, has been the exclusive home to the F-22 in the Pacific Air Forces area of operations. The introduction of the most advanced fighter jet in the world further strengthens the Pacific.
"We owe it to our nation, and her protected citizens, to equip our Airmen, our nation's sons and daughters, with the very best that we can," said Gen. Gary L. North, the Pacific Air Forces commander. "The F-22's advanced technologies are an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities for the U.S. forces. Alongside our superb Airmen who operate, maintain, support this aircraft, it represents an overmatching capability to any known or projected adversary fighter aircraft."
The arrival of the F-22 reverse association at Hickam AFB is not a new concept for these Airmen working side-by-side. The active-duty and guard members already share the C-17 Globemaster III in a traditional association where the active-duty Airmen take the lead.
"Our Airmen in uniform, alongside their civilian counterparts, form the total force integration of active association initiatives where the Hawaii Air National Guard has the lead and our active-duty Airmen will operate alongside," General North said. "This partnership ... forms the bond in testament of our total force and it is the envy of the world."
The F-22s will replace the F-15 Eagles that the 199th Fighter Squadron has flown since 1987. The F-22 is designed to counter lethal threats posed by advanced surface-to-air missile systems and next-generation fighters equipped with a launch-and-leave missile capability.
For Colonel Newton, an F-22 pilot, there isn't an amusement park or thrill ride on the face of the planet that measures up to flying the most advanced fighter jet known to man.
"Imagine the best amusement park and the best ride and then quadruple the experience -- and that is what it feels like to fly the F-22," he said. "It is awesome."
15th Wing Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) -- Total force integration set the stage for the Hawaii National Guard, alongside Airmen from the Pacific Air Forces, as they marked the arrival of the first pair of F-22 Raptors during a ceremony here July 9.
The Raptors' arrival to the 199th Fighter Squadron and the 15th Wing marks the first Air National Guard lead F-22 association in the nation. This partnership is a "reverse association," where the active-duty counterpart will soon re-activate the 19th Fighter Squadron.
"This construct marks an important partnership between the National Guard and the active-duty forces," said Gen. Craig R. McKinley, the National Guard Bureau chief. "I couldn't be more proud ... about taking pride in total force integration. I think it's a crown jewel, in all of our services, to have this type of team spirit here in evidence today."
The ceremony marked the beginning of the newest partnership between the Hawaii Air National Guard and the active-duty Air Force flying the "fifth generation" fighter at Hickam Air Force Base. The F-22s will be flown by pilots from the 199th Fighter Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard, and active-duty pilots from the 19th Fighter Squadron. The aircraft will also be maintained by a combination of Hawaii Air National Guardsmen and active-duty Airmen.
"Total force integration is a force multiplier," said Lt. Col. Harvey Newton, the 15th Operations Group and incoming 19th Fighter Squadron commander. "We bring the best of both together and capitalize on each other's strengths. The Air National Guard has highly experienced pilots, operations personnel and maintenance professionals who are the best at what they do."
From experiences in the field and at home, Colonel Newton said he believes each group is great at what they do because they have spent years honing their trades to become the best. The active component brings a breadth of experience from around the combat air forces and a full-time work force that can be tasked at anytime.
"We have recognized the synergy that is gained from (total force integration), and it has become the Combat Air Forces model," Colonel Newton said. "The HIANG (Hawaii Air National Guard) is a highly respected ... unit and their merits stand on their own. (Total force integration) will only help the HIANG and 15th wing to reach new heights."
Those new heights will come in the way of increased operations tempo as the Hawaii F-22 squadron is only one of seven operational squadrons, Colonel Newton said.
Until now, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, has been the exclusive home to the F-22 in the Pacific Air Forces area of operations. The introduction of the most advanced fighter jet in the world further strengthens the Pacific.
"We owe it to our nation, and her protected citizens, to equip our Airmen, our nation's sons and daughters, with the very best that we can," said Gen. Gary L. North, the Pacific Air Forces commander. "The F-22's advanced technologies are an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities for the U.S. forces. Alongside our superb Airmen who operate, maintain, support this aircraft, it represents an overmatching capability to any known or projected adversary fighter aircraft."
The arrival of the F-22 reverse association at Hickam AFB is not a new concept for these Airmen working side-by-side. The active-duty and guard members already share the C-17 Globemaster III in a traditional association where the active-duty Airmen take the lead.
"Our Airmen in uniform, alongside their civilian counterparts, form the total force integration of active association initiatives where the Hawaii Air National Guard has the lead and our active-duty Airmen will operate alongside," General North said. "This partnership ... forms the bond in testament of our total force and it is the envy of the world."
The F-22s will replace the F-15 Eagles that the 199th Fighter Squadron has flown since 1987. The F-22 is designed to counter lethal threats posed by advanced surface-to-air missile systems and next-generation fighters equipped with a launch-and-leave missile capability.
For Colonel Newton, an F-22 pilot, there isn't an amusement park or thrill ride on the face of the planet that measures up to flying the most advanced fighter jet known to man.
"Imagine the best amusement park and the best ride and then quadruple the experience -- and that is what it feels like to fly the F-22," he said. "It is awesome."
Air Force officials launch new uniform website
by Staff Sgt. Steve Grever
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- Air Force officials launched a new public website this month to help educate and inform Airmen about the service's dress and appearance standards and policies.
Air Force Directorate of Service's Uniforms and Recognition Branch officials, in conjunction with officials from the Air Force Personnel Center and several other agencies, created the website that features interactive slideshows, uniform regulations, detailed photos and uniform policy updates from the Air Force Uniform Board.
The new website was developed to be a comprehensive online resource that is available 24/7 for Airmen stationed around the world, said Ruth Ewalt, the Air Force Uniforms and Recognition Branch director.
"We wanted to create a place where all Airmen can view any uniform combination in detail," Mrs. Ewalt said. "This eliminates confusing rumors about the latest versions of Air Force uniforms."
Airmen also wanted an uncomplicated website that was user friendly and did not require excessive navigation to find information about different combinations of the Air Force uniform, Mrs. Ewalt said.
"We needed a website that would not take more than two or three clicks of the mouse to get an answer to a uniform inquiry," she said.
Having this information on a public website ensures uniform changes and updates are readily available to the field, rather than waiting for updates to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, which is being revised.
"The information will be updated quicker and more effectively," she said.
Putting the website in the public domain allows users to access it without their common access card, which is helpful for Airmen researching uniform information from computers or smart phones off the military network.
While the new site will be a valuable resource, Airmen should continue to work through their chain of command for clarification and guidance on Air Force dress and appearance standards and policies.
For more information, visit the Air Force Dress and Appearance public website at http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/dress/index.asp
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- Air Force officials launched a new public website this month to help educate and inform Airmen about the service's dress and appearance standards and policies.
Air Force Directorate of Service's Uniforms and Recognition Branch officials, in conjunction with officials from the Air Force Personnel Center and several other agencies, created the website that features interactive slideshows, uniform regulations, detailed photos and uniform policy updates from the Air Force Uniform Board.
The new website was developed to be a comprehensive online resource that is available 24/7 for Airmen stationed around the world, said Ruth Ewalt, the Air Force Uniforms and Recognition Branch director.
"We wanted to create a place where all Airmen can view any uniform combination in detail," Mrs. Ewalt said. "This eliminates confusing rumors about the latest versions of Air Force uniforms."
Airmen also wanted an uncomplicated website that was user friendly and did not require excessive navigation to find information about different combinations of the Air Force uniform, Mrs. Ewalt said.
"We needed a website that would not take more than two or three clicks of the mouse to get an answer to a uniform inquiry," she said.
Having this information on a public website ensures uniform changes and updates are readily available to the field, rather than waiting for updates to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, which is being revised.
"The information will be updated quicker and more effectively," she said.
Putting the website in the public domain allows users to access it without their common access card, which is helpful for Airmen researching uniform information from computers or smart phones off the military network.
While the new site will be a valuable resource, Airmen should continue to work through their chain of command for clarification and guidance on Air Force dress and appearance standards and policies.
For more information, visit the Air Force Dress and Appearance public website at http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/dress/index.asp
56th Medical Group Airmen provide medical support in Haiti
by Army Spc. Jessica M. Lopez
Task Force Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - MANDRIN, Haiti (AFNS) -- Airmen with the 56th Medical Group at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., provided general medical health care at the U.S. Army South New Horizons-Haiti 2010 Task Force Kout Men Ennery medical assistance site here June 13.
New Horizons officials, in partnership with officials from the government of Haiti, are conducting various medical, dental and engineering missions for people in Gonaives, Haiti.
"We have a medical team with nine providers," said Col. Tom Steinbrunner, the deputy commander of the 56th Medical Group.
The medical team is providing general medicine, optometry and dental support.
Task Force Kout Men was asked by Haitian officials to provide health care to this area where they normally do not have access to adequate primary care, Colonel Steinbrunner said. "This area has a very small clinic that does not have the ability to meet the needs of the patients here.
"This is a part if the country that is not reached much by (non-governmental organizations)," Colonel Steinbrunner said.
In addition to providing medical care to the people of Haiti, New Horizons also provides training in a real-world environment for servicemembers.
For the majority of the team, it's their first deployment; very few have been on a humanitarian mission, Colonel Steinbrunner said. "This is a great opportunity for them to learn the deployed environment and also be able to provide care outside of the country."
"I am getting lots of hands-on experience," said Airman Michael Palmer, a medical services apprentice with the 56th Medical Operations Squadron. "Some of the things we learned in the clinic were a little bit improvised here in the field.
"I did an ear irrigation, and I had to modify some of the equipment," Airman Palmer said. "We don't have the same equipment out here as we do back in the clinic. We kind of make do with what we have and make things work.
"Everyone is working well together," Airman Palmer said. "The providers take their time and are excellent to work with."
The 56th Medical Group is scheduled to operate here through July 21.
Task Force Public Affairs
7/14/2010 - MANDRIN, Haiti (AFNS) -- Airmen with the 56th Medical Group at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., provided general medical health care at the U.S. Army South New Horizons-Haiti 2010 Task Force Kout Men Ennery medical assistance site here June 13.
New Horizons officials, in partnership with officials from the government of Haiti, are conducting various medical, dental and engineering missions for people in Gonaives, Haiti.
"We have a medical team with nine providers," said Col. Tom Steinbrunner, the deputy commander of the 56th Medical Group.
The medical team is providing general medicine, optometry and dental support.
Task Force Kout Men was asked by Haitian officials to provide health care to this area where they normally do not have access to adequate primary care, Colonel Steinbrunner said. "This area has a very small clinic that does not have the ability to meet the needs of the patients here.
"This is a part if the country that is not reached much by (non-governmental organizations)," Colonel Steinbrunner said.
In addition to providing medical care to the people of Haiti, New Horizons also provides training in a real-world environment for servicemembers.
For the majority of the team, it's their first deployment; very few have been on a humanitarian mission, Colonel Steinbrunner said. "This is a great opportunity for them to learn the deployed environment and also be able to provide care outside of the country."
"I am getting lots of hands-on experience," said Airman Michael Palmer, a medical services apprentice with the 56th Medical Operations Squadron. "Some of the things we learned in the clinic were a little bit improvised here in the field.
"I did an ear irrigation, and I had to modify some of the equipment," Airman Palmer said. "We don't have the same equipment out here as we do back in the clinic. We kind of make do with what we have and make things work.
"Everyone is working well together," Airman Palmer said. "The providers take their time and are excellent to work with."
The 56th Medical Group is scheduled to operate here through July 21.
Vinson Celebrates 200,000 Traps
USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) reached a historic milestone with the success of its 200,000th trap on its flight deck July 13.
Vinson celebrated with two ceremonies, where cakes were presented in Wardroom III to the aviators who landed the EA-18G Growler, and in Arresting Gear Room 4, to the Sailors manning the V-2 engine room who manned the arresting gear for the landmark trap.
Lt. Ben Hartman and Lt. Ian Hudson, attached to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129, said they were honored and surprised to learn they got the 200,000th trap.
"It feels good to be part of Carl Vinson's history. It's a new community we're apart of, so everything is new and exciting," said Hudson. "It takes 25 years plus to accumulate 200,000 traps on an aircraft carrier. It's really surprising we got the 200,000th."
The aviators expressed how proud they were to be manning the aircraft, but also recognized the Sailors who made this monumental achievement possible.
"It definitely feels good, but it's more of a testament to the guys working on the flight deck and the arresting gear. They're the ones working hard all day every day," said Hartman.
The team that was working hard to catch Hudson and Hartman's plane was Air Department's V-2 Division. The aircraft was caught by the arresting gear on the fourth wire, which was being manned by Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Shawn Greer.
"I'm honored to be apart of Carl Vinson's history and V-2's history with arresting gear," said Greer. "Working in the V-2 engine room can be high pressured because it's not just the pilot's lives on our hands, but everyone working on the flight deck as well. That's why me and my boys in the V-2 Division always execute the highest level of safety."
V-2 Division is responsible for the safe recovery of all aircraft on the ship's flight deck. V-2 performs maintenance on industrial cables which catch the planes, as well as the hydraulic machinery that assists in stopping them.
"This is a testament to the kind of Sailors we've had working this flight deck for the past 28 years," said Cmdr. Richard Wiley, Carl Vinson's air department head. "Two-hundred thousand traps means we've done it right, and we've done it safely for a long, long time. Carl Vinson, also known as the 'Gold Eagle,' has built a legacy of excellence, and it's been built by the Sailors we had out there today and the men and women who served before them."
George Washington Sailor Aids in Rescue of Fuji Hiker
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to USS George Washington (CVN 73) assisted in the rescue of an American tourist July 8 while climbing Japan's world famous Mount Fuji. Lt. Jay Furman, a George Washington assistant strike operator officer and a native of Austin, Texas, assisted Mr. Erwin Kuhns, an 84-year-old American tourist also climbing Fuji. "I did anything that anyone else would have done in my situation on that mountain," said Furman. "There was someone who needed assistance, and I had the abilities to take care of the situation. I was blown away at how appreciative everyone was and have been since that day."
Furman, an avid outdoors man, began his 12,388-foot journey up Fuji around noon, although he had initially planned to begin his journey up the mountain before daybreak.
"With the ship being in for a few days, I didn't want to miss the chance of climbing Fuji before we had to return to sea," said Furman.
Furman reached the summit of Fuji, a feat typically taking five to six hours, in four hours.
"It was a gloomy day to climb," said Furman. "The weather conditions were not in the hiker's favor to see any views from the top. It was windy, cold and there was a drizzly haze that would not go away that day."
While descending the mountain, Furman came across Kuhns, a hiker who had become separated from his son during their trek down the mountain, and noticed the man was having difficulties.
"He looked physically worn out," said Furman.
Furman began to assist Kuhns back down the mountain, learning that Kuhns was a U.S. Navy coxswain's mate in World War II on a landing ship, ferrying troops to the beaches of Normandy during D-Day. Furman also learned that Kuhns had climbed Fuji more than 60 years ago and recently returned to climb it again with his son.
After carrying Kuhns some distance down the mountain, Furman noticed the sun was setting and the weather was worsening. He realized that he and Kuhns were the only ones left on the trail and that Kuhn's condition was continuing to deteriorate.
"I pulled us to the side of the hiking trail and tried to find shelter due to the blowing and freezing rain at the time," said Furman. "Once I did that, I climbed a little crevice nearby to try to get a cell phone signal."
After not being able to get in contact with the Fuji park rangers, Furman was able to contact the Navy liaison at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, for assistance. Informing them of his situation, they immediately called the Japanese police and alerted authorities about the men on Fuji. The Japanese police and park rangers arrived to the base of the mountain and began to search for the men.
Hours passed as Furman assisted in guiding the rescue team to his location by using a hiking trail map, his cell phone, a flashlight and whistle that he brought along for the hike. His constant communication with the Japanese rescue team led to the end of his and Kuhns ordeal around 10 p.m. July 8.
Kuhns, now reunited with his son, was sent to the hospital and treated for dehydration and exposure. Furman, who was graciously thanked for his efforts by the entire rescue team and Japanese police on site, was escorted to the police station to fill out some paperwork.
"When I went to the police station to fill out the report, the police chief asked for my work number," said Furman.
The police chief called Furman's commanding officer, Cmdr. Thomas Bush, to thank him personally for Furman's assistance on Fuji.
"Lt. Furman is a model officer in all respects," Bush said. "Therefore, I was not surprised to hear he took charge of the situation on the mountain and saw things through to a safe and successful outcome."
Furman's service to the Navy and forward deployed naval forces will continue beyond his tenure aboard George Washington. According to Bush, Furman was recently selected to become the next flag aide to Rear Adm. Dan Cloyd, commander, Carrier Strike Group 5/Task Force 70.
"I have no doubt Furman will excel in that role," said Bush.
While overseas, U.S. service members serve as ambassadors who are held to an exceptional standard when stationed in host countries and visiting ports of call. Furman said his efforts to help Kuhns would not have been possible without the work between himself and the Japanese law enforcement.
Furman's climb to the top of Fuji and rescue of a fellow shipmate and World War II veteran was an adventure Furman said he will long remember.
"Mr. Kuhns is an amazing man I'll never forget," he said. "I'd be darned if he didn't do what he said he would and climb the mountain again at 84-years-old. Now that is impressive."
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Guardsman Retires After 56 Years
139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
July 14, 2010 - A young man working on a farm in Illinois decided to enlist in the National Guard in March 1953 after he received a challenge from his friend and employer. The Korean War's cease-fire was near, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower had just started his first term in office.
Many things have changed since then, but one thing didn't change: the young man's commitment to serve his country.
Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Nelson "Gene" Blakey of Moweaqua, Ill., retired June 1 after 56 years in the Illinois National Guard.
"I don't think we will ever find anyone to replace him," said Army Sgt. Maj. Donnie R. Parker of Lincoln, Ill. "I think we can find someone who can do the job -- we have personnel in the office who are covering down on the things that he was responsible for and are getting things done -- but as far as the person, I do not think you will ever find anyone who will compare with the person that Mr. Blakey is."
Blakey started his military career working in a U.S. Property and Fiscal Office warehouse here. He progressed through the ranks to sergeant major, and then from chief warrant officer 2 to chief warrant officer 4. Blakey hung up his boots and retired as a traditional Illinois National Guardsman in 1994, but he continued to work for the military as a state employee for 16 more years.
Although he has experienced many things throughout his career, Blakey said, his last position was his most enjoyable.
"My most rewarding position was the last job I had working in the personnel department, because I was able to help enlisted people," he said. "If they had a problem and could not get it solved within their unit, I would try to help get it solved. I worked there from 1975 until I retired."
Others attest to Blakey's passion and ability to help soldiers solve problems.
"Mr. Blakey, in the time that I worked with him, was a person that was very interested and concerned with taking care of soldiers," Parker said. "He would go out of his way to do whatever needed to be done to see that the soldiers were being taken care of in a way they should be. He was a very humble, outgoing person who was willing to assist in any way possible, whether it was part of his job description or not."
While Blakey's career nearly spanned the length of three 20-year military careers, he said he continued to serve in the Illinois National Guard because of his friends and family. His wife, Bonnie Blakey, also is retired from the Illinois National Guard.
"My family has been supportive of me," Blakey said. "My wife retired in 1999, and her support and involvement has been very important. If your family knows what you are doing, they stay with you and help you through everything."
Most people working at Camp Lincoln here knew Blakey, and many others throughout the state connected with him during their careers as well.
"He definitely had the ability to mix his professional career with friendships," said Ray Perry of Springfield, personnel support officer for the Illinois National Guard and a retired colonel with the Illinois Army National Guard.
"I always enjoyed making my morning rounds and getting the latest news or thought for the day from him," Perry said. "He always had the ability to put a smile on your face."
Although Blakey has retired, he does not look to take it easy. Instead, he is focusing his attention on things that need to be improved around his house.
"I will have horses to take care of, along with house and barn work to do," he said. "I will not slow down. I will keep going as long as I can."
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
USS Nimitz, Carrier Air Wing 11 Underway for Carrier Quals
USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 began carrier qualifications July 12 off the coast of Southern California.
Carrier qualifications test both CVW 11 and the Nimitz crew.
"The Nimitz and Air Wing 11 team did a great job of refreshing flight deck currency," said Capt. Eric Wright, Nimitz's air department head. "These operations aren't always fast or error-free, but we operated deliberately and safely. It was a great first day back."
Nimitz and CVW-11 will continue to launch and recover aircraft throughout the week of July 12 to qualify and re-qualify pilots, extending Nimitz's flight deck certification.
According to Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Marc Nielsen of air department's V-2 division, it is good for the crew to get back into a routine.
"Our job really only exists out to sea. This is where the action is," said Nielsen.
This is the first time aircraft have touched down on Nimitz's flight deck since returning from an eight-month deployment in March 2010.
"This is a good chance to knock the rust off." said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Brandon Soileau, operations department division leading petty officer.
Both Soileau and Nielsen said conducting carrier qualifications also allows everyone on the ship to stay current with personal qualifications.
"A lot of people are getting a good chance to go do their jobs," said Soileau.
Nimitz is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 11. Nimitz returned home to San Diego March 26 after completing a successful eight-month Western Pacific deployment.
Three AFPC Airmen become U.S. citizens
By Staff Sgt. Steve Grever
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Three Airmen from the Air Force Personnel Center here raised their right hands and pledged to defend and support the U.S. Constitution for the second time in their lives during a special naturalization ceremony July 9 in San Antonio. The first time they made this commitment was when they initially joined the Air Force, but this time it was to become U.S. citizens.
Airmen 1st Class Siarhei Marynin, Jourdan Castaneda and Abraham Flomo, Total Force Service Center sustainment apprentices, were three of six Air Force members to take the oath of allegiance and receive their naturalization certificates. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services office administered the ceremony for six Airmen and two Army soldiers in recognition of their commitment to defending America and the unique journeys each of them took to become American citizens.
Airman Castaneda was born in the Philippines and enlisted in the Air Force in November 2009 and said getting his citizenship will help him reach his goal of becoming a chief master sergeant some day.
“I really want to affect change at the enlisted level,” Airman Castaneda said.
Airman Marynin joined the Air Force in November 2009 from a small country called Belarus, which is nestled between Poland and Russia. He said his father was in the Russian military and he grew up in a military family.
“I joined the Air Force because it gives you an opportunity to have a good career and become an officer,” Airman Marynin said.
After the Airmen received their naturalization certificates, Airman Flomo, a native of Liberia, shared the experiences that lead him to become a U.S. citizen and join the Air Force.
"I come from a country where civil war is the norm,” Airman Flomo said. “Today, I stand here, proud to wear this uniform. We are now all Americans. I thank you.”
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Three Airmen from the Air Force Personnel Center here raised their right hands and pledged to defend and support the U.S. Constitution for the second time in their lives during a special naturalization ceremony July 9 in San Antonio. The first time they made this commitment was when they initially joined the Air Force, but this time it was to become U.S. citizens.
Airmen 1st Class Siarhei Marynin, Jourdan Castaneda and Abraham Flomo, Total Force Service Center sustainment apprentices, were three of six Air Force members to take the oath of allegiance and receive their naturalization certificates. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services office administered the ceremony for six Airmen and two Army soldiers in recognition of their commitment to defending America and the unique journeys each of them took to become American citizens.
Airman Castaneda was born in the Philippines and enlisted in the Air Force in November 2009 and said getting his citizenship will help him reach his goal of becoming a chief master sergeant some day.
“I really want to affect change at the enlisted level,” Airman Castaneda said.
Airman Marynin joined the Air Force in November 2009 from a small country called Belarus, which is nestled between Poland and Russia. He said his father was in the Russian military and he grew up in a military family.
“I joined the Air Force because it gives you an opportunity to have a good career and become an officer,” Airman Marynin said.
After the Airmen received their naturalization certificates, Airman Flomo, a native of Liberia, shared the experiences that lead him to become a U.S. citizen and join the Air Force.
"I come from a country where civil war is the norm,” Airman Flomo said. “Today, I stand here, proud to wear this uniform. We are now all Americans. I thank you.”
Double-Amputee Active Duty Soldier Takes Charge of Army Wounded Warrior Program
Arlington, VA —Today, Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson took over the leadership of the Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2), a six-year-old program that provides personalized support to severely wounded, ill and injured soldiers and veterans, as well as their families. Gadson’s 22-year military career began at West Point with a field artillery commission and includes several combat tours, most recently as a battalion commander in Iraq, where an improvised explosive device (IED) resulted in the amputation of both his legs. Lt. Col. Gadson was recently selected for promotion to the rank of Colonel.
“As an alumni of AW2’s support, I know first-hand the value that the Army Wounded Warrior Program brings to the long term success of wounded soldiers. This is the perfect place for me to serve, and I am honored to have this mission,” said AW2 Director Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson. “For our severely wounded, ill and injured soldiers and veterans, AW2 provides an umbrella of expertise that helps foster the independence that leads to long-term success. For me, AW2's personalized support led to my continued service in the Army.”
AW2, a component of the U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command (WTC), provides each severely wounded soldier – such as those with amputations, burns, paralysis, vision loss, post traumatic stress disorder, or traumatic brain injury–with a local AW2 Advocate. The AW2 Advocate’s role is to foster the soldier’s independence as they learn to adapt to their injury and transition to life post-injury, whether that is back to duty or into civilian status. The AW2 Advocate connects the soldier with resources, benefits and information, and also provides a shoulder to lean on or motivation to keep them moving forward.
“Having served twice with Lt. Col. Gadson in Afghanistan, I know there is no better leader for this program. He understands soldiers, knows the challenges faced by our severely wounded, and is eager to build on AW2's proven success,” stated Brig. Gen. Gary Cheek, WTC commander.
WTC, a major subordinate command under the U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM), serves as the central comprehensive source for warrior care support across the Army. Its mission is to develop, coordinate and integrate the Army’s Warrior Care and Transition Program for wounded, ill and injured soldiers, veterans, and their families in order to promote future success in the force or in civilian live.
Col. Jim Rice, the outgoing AW2 director, will now serve as the Chief, Health Service Support Directorate on the Joint Staff. In this role he will coordinate medical support for all the services to combatant commanders around the world.
“As an alumni of AW2’s support, I know first-hand the value that the Army Wounded Warrior Program brings to the long term success of wounded soldiers. This is the perfect place for me to serve, and I am honored to have this mission,” said AW2 Director Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson. “For our severely wounded, ill and injured soldiers and veterans, AW2 provides an umbrella of expertise that helps foster the independence that leads to long-term success. For me, AW2's personalized support led to my continued service in the Army.”
AW2, a component of the U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command (WTC), provides each severely wounded soldier – such as those with amputations, burns, paralysis, vision loss, post traumatic stress disorder, or traumatic brain injury–with a local AW2 Advocate. The AW2 Advocate’s role is to foster the soldier’s independence as they learn to adapt to their injury and transition to life post-injury, whether that is back to duty or into civilian status. The AW2 Advocate connects the soldier with resources, benefits and information, and also provides a shoulder to lean on or motivation to keep them moving forward.
“Having served twice with Lt. Col. Gadson in Afghanistan, I know there is no better leader for this program. He understands soldiers, knows the challenges faced by our severely wounded, and is eager to build on AW2's proven success,” stated Brig. Gen. Gary Cheek, WTC commander.
WTC, a major subordinate command under the U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM), serves as the central comprehensive source for warrior care support across the Army. Its mission is to develop, coordinate and integrate the Army’s Warrior Care and Transition Program for wounded, ill and injured soldiers, veterans, and their families in order to promote future success in the force or in civilian live.
Col. Jim Rice, the outgoing AW2 director, will now serve as the Chief, Health Service Support Directorate on the Joint Staff. In this role he will coordinate medical support for all the services to combatant commanders around the world.
Department of Defense’s Oldest and Largest Exchange Service to Mark 115 Years of Support
DALLAS – As the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) readies to mark 115 years of service and support to America’s military, the military command’s mission remains basically the same: provide quality goods and services at competitively low prices and generate earnings to support Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) and Services programs.
Established July 25, 1895, when the War Department issued General Order number 46 directing post commanders to establish an Exchange at every post where practicable, AAFES continues to deliver a comprehensive and customer–focused benefit to troops and their families at installations throughout America, Europe, the Pacific and Middle East.
In addition to its flagship Exchange facilities, modern AAFES operations also include convenience stores, car care centers, military clothing sales stores, fast food restaurants, retail concession services such as flower shops and gift stores, vending, telecommunications support and a wide variety of personal services through more than 3,100 facilities in 25 countries, five US territories and all 50 states.
The scope of current operations goes well beyond the conventional offerings the War Department might have envisioned in the late 1800’s as AAFES today operates bakeries, water bottling activities and provides more than 22,000 meals a day to troops’ children at 91 Department of Defense Schools in nine countries.
Just like the merchants who supplied provisions to America’s troops in the late 19th century, AAFES associates continue to live and work alongside those they serve. In fact, more than 300 associates are currently deployed to Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, actively delivering a slice of Americana to troops through 90 Exchange operations, 72 phone centers and 250 fast food restaurants scattered throughout the Middle East.
Closer to home, the largest and most senior Exchange service is focused on energizing outreach efforts to communicate the value, benefit and capabilities it brings to the military community. Recognizing the pivotal role National Guard and Reserve troops are playing as they transition from a strategic force to an operational force, AAFES is specifically reaching out to “Citizen Soldiers’” families to ensure they understand the value of their exchange benefit not only downrange, but also on the installation, online or over the phone. AAFES’ outreach efforts are further enhanced through social media channels such as Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and SalutetoYourService.com, that strengthen positive, long-term relationships with military shoppers.
“AAFES’ commitment to America’s troops is as strong as it’s ever been,” said Col. Virgil Williams, AAFES chief of staff. “Whether at their home station, deployed overseas, providing support in the wake of a natural disaster, or even in the hospital, AAFES is there.”
Keeping in the spirit of exceptional service and support, Exchanges and the Exchange Online Store are inviting authorized customers to “celebrate the savings” from Sunday, July 25 through Tuesday, July 27.
Shoppers who stop by CONUS exchanges during the three-day period can register to win a $5,000 Exchange shopping spree while runners-up will receive one of three Samsung LED TVs ranging from 40-55”. Exchange patrons in the U.S. can also enter to win a round trip for two to Hollywood to meet Mario Lopez and attend a taping of eXTRA.
Military shoppers stationed overseas who stop by the Exchange during the three-day period can register to win a $5,000 Exchange shopping spree, a backpack or set of luggage.
In addition to the giveaways and sweepstakes, Exchanges across the globe will offer a variety of great deals centered on AAFES’ 115th birthday. Shoppers using their MILITARY STAR® card, for example, will receive $15 off any purchase of $115 or more as well as 15 cents off a gallon of gas during the three-days of festivities. Additionally, several items at aafes.com, including a Bulova watch, diamond bangle bracelet, Voyager Bluetooth headset and Cuisinart Chef’s 10-piece cookware set, will be offered for just $115.
Since its establishment in 1895, AAFES has been involved in 14 major contingencies (to include the Spanish-American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, the Balkans and Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom) and several dozen humanitarian and disaster relief contingencies.
AAFES is a joint command of the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, and is directed by a Board of Directors who is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. AAFES has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and of generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military MWR and Services programs.
Established July 25, 1895, when the War Department issued General Order number 46 directing post commanders to establish an Exchange at every post where practicable, AAFES continues to deliver a comprehensive and customer–focused benefit to troops and their families at installations throughout America, Europe, the Pacific and Middle East.
In addition to its flagship Exchange facilities, modern AAFES operations also include convenience stores, car care centers, military clothing sales stores, fast food restaurants, retail concession services such as flower shops and gift stores, vending, telecommunications support and a wide variety of personal services through more than 3,100 facilities in 25 countries, five US territories and all 50 states.
The scope of current operations goes well beyond the conventional offerings the War Department might have envisioned in the late 1800’s as AAFES today operates bakeries, water bottling activities and provides more than 22,000 meals a day to troops’ children at 91 Department of Defense Schools in nine countries.
Just like the merchants who supplied provisions to America’s troops in the late 19th century, AAFES associates continue to live and work alongside those they serve. In fact, more than 300 associates are currently deployed to Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, actively delivering a slice of Americana to troops through 90 Exchange operations, 72 phone centers and 250 fast food restaurants scattered throughout the Middle East.
Closer to home, the largest and most senior Exchange service is focused on energizing outreach efforts to communicate the value, benefit and capabilities it brings to the military community. Recognizing the pivotal role National Guard and Reserve troops are playing as they transition from a strategic force to an operational force, AAFES is specifically reaching out to “Citizen Soldiers’” families to ensure they understand the value of their exchange benefit not only downrange, but also on the installation, online or over the phone. AAFES’ outreach efforts are further enhanced through social media channels such as Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and SalutetoYourService.com, that strengthen positive, long-term relationships with military shoppers.
“AAFES’ commitment to America’s troops is as strong as it’s ever been,” said Col. Virgil Williams, AAFES chief of staff. “Whether at their home station, deployed overseas, providing support in the wake of a natural disaster, or even in the hospital, AAFES is there.”
Keeping in the spirit of exceptional service and support, Exchanges and the Exchange Online Store are inviting authorized customers to “celebrate the savings” from Sunday, July 25 through Tuesday, July 27.
Shoppers who stop by CONUS exchanges during the three-day period can register to win a $5,000 Exchange shopping spree while runners-up will receive one of three Samsung LED TVs ranging from 40-55”. Exchange patrons in the U.S. can also enter to win a round trip for two to Hollywood to meet Mario Lopez and attend a taping of eXTRA.
Military shoppers stationed overseas who stop by the Exchange during the three-day period can register to win a $5,000 Exchange shopping spree, a backpack or set of luggage.
In addition to the giveaways and sweepstakes, Exchanges across the globe will offer a variety of great deals centered on AAFES’ 115th birthday. Shoppers using their MILITARY STAR® card, for example, will receive $15 off any purchase of $115 or more as well as 15 cents off a gallon of gas during the three-days of festivities. Additionally, several items at aafes.com, including a Bulova watch, diamond bangle bracelet, Voyager Bluetooth headset and Cuisinart Chef’s 10-piece cookware set, will be offered for just $115.
Since its establishment in 1895, AAFES has been involved in 14 major contingencies (to include the Spanish-American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, the Balkans and Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom) and several dozen humanitarian and disaster relief contingencies.
AAFES is a joint command of the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, and is directed by a Board of Directors who is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. AAFES has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and of generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military MWR and Services programs.
Rules Change on Escorting Families During Duty Station Moves
By Wm. Cullen James, Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Service members traveling on indeterminate temporary duty (ITDY) orders are now authorized to escort their family members to and from an alternate location at government expense, according to NAVADMIN 227/10, which was released July 9.
The message announced the change in the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR) law that went into effect March 15.
The new policy adds an escort entitlement for Sailors to accompany their family during an authorized move. There is no change to family member travel.
ITDY is similar to temporary duty (TDY), which the Navy calls temporary additional duty (TAD), but there is no specified time period and no end-date in the orders. A modification or follow-on orders are required for the member to go to their permanent duty station (PDS).
According to Cmdr. Carl Chaffin, distribution management and procedures branch head, this change in policy is the culmination of more than two years of work that was initiated at the direction of the Task Force Individual Augmentee (IA) Conference held in the fall of 2007.
"To allow service members returning from IA assignments to reunite with their families was a major issue of that conference," said Chaffin. "Reducing the requirement from 365 to 210 days to be eligible for ITDY orders and the escort entitlement were the courses of action taken to meet that issue."
To apply for escort entitlement, the member must be on ITDY orders dated March 15 or later. Orders dated prior to March 15 can be modified, but this modification does not grandfather in prior travel.
"ITDY orders are issued to service members going on temporary duty when the return date is unknown," said Chaffin. "To qualify for ITDY orders, the Navy has reduced the estimated minimum number of days on assignment to 210 days. ITDY orders extend the same entitlements as TDY orders, plus additional entitlements for moving family members to an alternate place. The escort option only applies to the member when assisting family members such as for the purpose of concurrent travel."
Under the new rules, service members must request approval of their itinerary prior to starting travel. Travel is either from the PDS to the ITDY location or from the ITDY location to the PDS. Service members currently on Global War on Terrorism Support Assignments (GSA) cannot be reimbursed retroactively for previous travel, but may make a request for their return travel.
Some typical scenarios:
• A service member accompanies family members from an alternate location en route to the old PDS upon return from an individual augmentee assignment when the servicemember does not have follow-on permanent change of station orders.
• The member escorts family members to an alternate location and returns to the Sailor's PDS prior to departing for an IA/GSA.
• When the servicemember has follow-on PCS orders, travel from the ITDY location to the old PDS (if family members elected to stay there) and travel to new PDS when returning from a GSA.
The government will not pay for escort travel when:
• The member wants to use it to arrange for household goods or privately owned vehicle shipments, take leave or any other personal convenience.
• The member does not have ITDY orders. Any travel prior to having written orders is not reimbursable.
• The member has already reported to the new PDS.
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Service members traveling on indeterminate temporary duty (ITDY) orders are now authorized to escort their family members to and from an alternate location at government expense, according to NAVADMIN 227/10, which was released July 9.
The message announced the change in the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR) law that went into effect March 15.
The new policy adds an escort entitlement for Sailors to accompany their family during an authorized move. There is no change to family member travel.
ITDY is similar to temporary duty (TDY), which the Navy calls temporary additional duty (TAD), but there is no specified time period and no end-date in the orders. A modification or follow-on orders are required for the member to go to their permanent duty station (PDS).
According to Cmdr. Carl Chaffin, distribution management and procedures branch head, this change in policy is the culmination of more than two years of work that was initiated at the direction of the Task Force Individual Augmentee (IA) Conference held in the fall of 2007.
"To allow service members returning from IA assignments to reunite with their families was a major issue of that conference," said Chaffin. "Reducing the requirement from 365 to 210 days to be eligible for ITDY orders and the escort entitlement were the courses of action taken to meet that issue."
To apply for escort entitlement, the member must be on ITDY orders dated March 15 or later. Orders dated prior to March 15 can be modified, but this modification does not grandfather in prior travel.
"ITDY orders are issued to service members going on temporary duty when the return date is unknown," said Chaffin. "To qualify for ITDY orders, the Navy has reduced the estimated minimum number of days on assignment to 210 days. ITDY orders extend the same entitlements as TDY orders, plus additional entitlements for moving family members to an alternate place. The escort option only applies to the member when assisting family members such as for the purpose of concurrent travel."
Under the new rules, service members must request approval of their itinerary prior to starting travel. Travel is either from the PDS to the ITDY location or from the ITDY location to the PDS. Service members currently on Global War on Terrorism Support Assignments (GSA) cannot be reimbursed retroactively for previous travel, but may make a request for their return travel.
Some typical scenarios:
• A service member accompanies family members from an alternate location en route to the old PDS upon return from an individual augmentee assignment when the servicemember does not have follow-on permanent change of station orders.
• The member escorts family members to an alternate location and returns to the Sailor's PDS prior to departing for an IA/GSA.
• When the servicemember has follow-on PCS orders, travel from the ITDY location to the old PDS (if family members elected to stay there) and travel to new PDS when returning from a GSA.
The government will not pay for escort travel when:
• The member wants to use it to arrange for household goods or privately owned vehicle shipments, take leave or any other personal convenience.
• The member does not have ITDY orders. Any travel prior to having written orders is not reimbursable.
• The member has already reported to the new PDS.
Sailors Shine in Yorktown Waterman's Heritage Festival
By Mark O. Piggott, Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Public Affairs
YORKTOWN, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors from Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Yorktown enjoyed the fun and festivities of the 2010 Yorktown Waterman's Heritage Festival at the Yorktown Waterman's Museum in Yortown, Va., July 11.
The festival is held annually to honor watermen who fish on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries and the men and women of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard who protect them.
The festival features waterman's boat races, maritime and environmental educational displays, arts and crafts vendors and various military units. Sailors from the NWS Yorktown's Security Department brought a 45-foot harbor security boat and patrol cruiser to display for festival patrons.
Other military elements included a U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat from U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown and Marine Corps humvees from 2nd Fleet's Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST) at NWS Yorktown.
"The military's participation is always a big part of the festival every year," said David Niebuhr, executive director for the Yorktown Waterman's Museum. "We can't do enough to thank them for their service to our country and for their support of the Yorktown community."
The highlight of the festival is the annual waterman boat races. Each year, the local watermen try to win honors and bragging rights for the next year. From outboard motors to big diesel engines, the boats put on quite a show for all the spectators to see.
"It's amazing to see what these workboats are capable of," said Capt. Chuck Marks, NWS Yorktown's commanding officer. "These men take pride in their work and show it by maintaining their boats in a high state of readiness. That's the mark of a true seaman."
Throughout the day, people who wandered the festival grounds got a chance to see military hardware up close and interact with Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen. The festival gives the local community the opportunity to see their military neighbors outside the fence line.
"Our mission of fleet ordnance support requires intense security and some restrictions, especially when it comes to the base operations," said Marks. "We welcome opportunities like the Waterman's Festival to bring us a little bit closer to the community we call home."
"I know we can always rely on the military to help us in any way, shape or form," said Niebuhr. "They add significantly to the Waterman's Museum goal of educating people on the resources and history of the York River."
The festival concluded with a rousing performance by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band "Four-Star Edition" playing top rock, pop and country hits.
YORKTOWN, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors from Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Yorktown enjoyed the fun and festivities of the 2010 Yorktown Waterman's Heritage Festival at the Yorktown Waterman's Museum in Yortown, Va., July 11.
The festival is held annually to honor watermen who fish on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries and the men and women of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard who protect them.
The festival features waterman's boat races, maritime and environmental educational displays, arts and crafts vendors and various military units. Sailors from the NWS Yorktown's Security Department brought a 45-foot harbor security boat and patrol cruiser to display for festival patrons.
Other military elements included a U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat from U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown and Marine Corps humvees from 2nd Fleet's Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST) at NWS Yorktown.
"The military's participation is always a big part of the festival every year," said David Niebuhr, executive director for the Yorktown Waterman's Museum. "We can't do enough to thank them for their service to our country and for their support of the Yorktown community."
The highlight of the festival is the annual waterman boat races. Each year, the local watermen try to win honors and bragging rights for the next year. From outboard motors to big diesel engines, the boats put on quite a show for all the spectators to see.
"It's amazing to see what these workboats are capable of," said Capt. Chuck Marks, NWS Yorktown's commanding officer. "These men take pride in their work and show it by maintaining their boats in a high state of readiness. That's the mark of a true seaman."
Throughout the day, people who wandered the festival grounds got a chance to see military hardware up close and interact with Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen. The festival gives the local community the opportunity to see their military neighbors outside the fence line.
"Our mission of fleet ordnance support requires intense security and some restrictions, especially when it comes to the base operations," said Marks. "We welcome opportunities like the Waterman's Festival to bring us a little bit closer to the community we call home."
"I know we can always rely on the military to help us in any way, shape or form," said Niebuhr. "They add significantly to the Waterman's Museum goal of educating people on the resources and history of the York River."
The festival concluded with a rousing performance by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band "Four-Star Edition" playing top rock, pop and country hits.
MILITARY CONTRACTS July 13, 2010
NAVY
ITT Electronic Systems, Integrated Electronic Warfare Systems, Clifton, N.J., is being awarded a $42,498,896 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Clifton, N.J. (44 percent); St. Louis, Mo. (38 percent); and North Amityville, N.Y. (18 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0071).
Raytheon Co., Space and Airborne Systems, Electronic Warfare Systems, Goleta, Calif., is being awarded a $41,987,101 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 Tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Goleta, Calif. (25 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (25 percent); Dallas, Texas (25 percent); Fort Wayne, Ind. (10 percent); Indianapolis, Ind. (7 percent); Torrance, Calif. (5 percent); Fairfax, Va. (2 percent); and Anacortes, Wash. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0073).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems - Eastern Region, Bethpage, N.Y., is being awarded a $41,976,091 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Linthicum, Md. (60 percent); Bethpage, N.Y. (34 percent); Rockledge, Fla. (5 percent); and Mojave, Calif. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0072).
BAE Systems, Information and Electronic Systems Integration, Inc., Nashua, N.H., is being awarded a $41,748,137 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Nashua, N.H. (32 percent); Cincinnati, Ohio (27 percent); Lansdale, Pa. (25 percent); and Melbourne, Fla. (16 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0070).
Bell-Boeing Joint Project Office, Amarillo, Texas, is being awarded a $12,099,188 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0007) for the procurement of various obsolete parts for MV-22 and CV-22 aircraft, including both life-of-type and bridge buys. The associated obsolete parts are for the Display Electronics Unit II; Dual Digital Map System; Air Data Unit; Slim Multi Functional Display; and Thermoelectric Cooler Modular Unit. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (95 percent); Vergennes, Vt. (3 percent); and Albuquerque, N.M. (2 percent). Work is expected to be completed in October 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $10,124,259 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
HDR Architecture, Inc., Chicago, Ill., is being awarded a $10,000,000 modification to previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N40083-08-D-0065) to exercise Option 2 for architectural and engineering services at Naval Station Great Lakes. The work to be performed provides for partial design packages; total design packages; design-build request for proposal packages; repairs and alterations to existing facilities; collateral equipment lists; project preliminary hazard analysis; obtaining permits and regulatory approvals; surveys, topographic and boundary; soil investigations; comprehensive interior design; contractor submittal review; construction inspection, observation and consultation; operations and maintenance support information; environmental assessments; fire protection; anti-terrorism/force protection evaluation and design; designs for phased construction; and as-built drawing preparation. The current total estimated contract amount after exercise of this option will be $30,000,000. Work will be performed in Great Lakes, Ill., and work for this option period is expected to be completed July 15, 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Midwest, Great Lakes, Ill., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $9,598,456 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-09-C-0007) for the procurement of 20 Tomahawk Block IV mid-body range safety system kits and flight test kits. These components will be installed in each Tomahawk Block IV flight test missile to provide telemetry and safety-related communications between the missile and either ground or airborne safety controllers. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (45 percent); Bristol, Pa. (15 percent); San Diego, Calif. (14 percent); Westminster, Colo. (12 percent); Berryville, Ark. (5 percent); Lancaster, Pa. (2 percent); Huntsville, Ala. (1 percent); Joplin, Mo. (1 percent); Tulsa, Okla. (1 percent); Ontario, Calif. (1 percent); and miscellaneous locations throughout the U.S. (3 percent). Work is expected to be completed in May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Y. Hata & Co., Ltd.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a maximum $40,500,000 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, sole-source contract for full-line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is April 14, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3295).
Y. Hata & Co., Ltd.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a maximum $10,125,000 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, sole-source contract for full-line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is April 14, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3294).
Adanac Industries, Inc.*, Eastlake, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $8,856,000 firm-fixed-price with indefinite-quantity for antifriction bearing housing. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The date of performance completion is Dec. 24, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0237).
Adanac Industries, Inc.*, Eastlake, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $8,856,000 firm-fixed-price with indefinite-quantity for antifriction bearing housing. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The date of performance completion is Dec. 29, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0251).
ARMY
Raydon Corp., Daytona Beach, Fla., was awarded on July 9 a $36,355,550 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for 11 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle virtual trainers for the Army National Guard. Work is to be performed in Daytona Beach, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2011. Over 50 bids were solicited with one bid received. National Guard Bureau, ZC-AQ, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (W9133L-10-F-0130).
Conti Federal Services, Inc., South Plainfield, N.J., was awarded on July 7 a $7,027,043 firm-fixed-price contract. T his contract is for the construction of "Westbank and Vicinity, New Orleans, LA Hurricane Protection Project, WBV-09C Hero to Oakville HWY 23 Crossing; Plaquemines Parish, La." Work is to be performed in Plaquemines Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of May 23, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0095).
Science Application International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on July 9 a $5,549,168 firm-fixed-price contract for non-personal services in support of the "Advanced Electronic Magnetic Pulse Test & Technical Assistance In Accordance with Statement of Work." Work is to be performed in Fort Belvoir, Va., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2013. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Defense Threat Reduction Agency, R&D Enterprise Contracts, BE-BCRB, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (DTRA01-03-D-0005).
AIR FORCE
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, N.M., was awarded a $5,892,639 contract which will establish an educational outreach program that will develop, implement and maintain an integrated education recruitment and professional development system. At this time, $240,000 has been obligated. AFRL/RVKE, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the contracting activity (FA9451-10-2-0259).
Boeing Co., Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded a $7,000,000 contract which will support the 40mm gun requirement for the AC-130 Plus Four program. At this time, $1,173,207 has been obligated. 782 CBSG/GBKAA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8520-10-D-0010).
ITT Electronic Systems, Integrated Electronic Warfare Systems, Clifton, N.J., is being awarded a $42,498,896 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Clifton, N.J. (44 percent); St. Louis, Mo. (38 percent); and North Amityville, N.Y. (18 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0071).
Raytheon Co., Space and Airborne Systems, Electronic Warfare Systems, Goleta, Calif., is being awarded a $41,987,101 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 Tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Goleta, Calif. (25 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (25 percent); Dallas, Texas (25 percent); Fort Wayne, Ind. (10 percent); Indianapolis, Ind. (7 percent); Torrance, Calif. (5 percent); Fairfax, Va. (2 percent); and Anacortes, Wash. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0073).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems - Eastern Region, Bethpage, N.Y., is being awarded a $41,976,091 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Linthicum, Md. (60 percent); Bethpage, N.Y. (34 percent); Rockledge, Fla. (5 percent); and Mojave, Calif. (1 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0072).
BAE Systems, Information and Electronic Systems Integration, Inc., Nashua, N.H., is being awarded a $41,748,137 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology maturation efforts in support of the next-generation jammer, which will replace the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. Technology maturation efforts include research in support of future development of airborne electronic attack capability from a tactical-size airborne stand-off/mod-escort platform. Specifically, the contractor will mature and provide a concept demonstrator (CD) design and mature critical technology elements required to support CD design. Work will be performed in Nashua, N.H. (32 percent); Cincinnati, Ohio (27 percent); Lansdale, Pa. (25 percent); and Melbourne, Fla. (16 percent). Work is expected to be completed in April 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcement, with four proposals received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0070).
Bell-Boeing Joint Project Office, Amarillo, Texas, is being awarded a $12,099,188 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0007) for the procurement of various obsolete parts for MV-22 and CV-22 aircraft, including both life-of-type and bridge buys. The associated obsolete parts are for the Display Electronics Unit II; Dual Digital Map System; Air Data Unit; Slim Multi Functional Display; and Thermoelectric Cooler Modular Unit. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (95 percent); Vergennes, Vt. (3 percent); and Albuquerque, N.M. (2 percent). Work is expected to be completed in October 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $10,124,259 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
HDR Architecture, Inc., Chicago, Ill., is being awarded a $10,000,000 modification to previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N40083-08-D-0065) to exercise Option 2 for architectural and engineering services at Naval Station Great Lakes. The work to be performed provides for partial design packages; total design packages; design-build request for proposal packages; repairs and alterations to existing facilities; collateral equipment lists; project preliminary hazard analysis; obtaining permits and regulatory approvals; surveys, topographic and boundary; soil investigations; comprehensive interior design; contractor submittal review; construction inspection, observation and consultation; operations and maintenance support information; environmental assessments; fire protection; anti-terrorism/force protection evaluation and design; designs for phased construction; and as-built drawing preparation. The current total estimated contract amount after exercise of this option will be $30,000,000. Work will be performed in Great Lakes, Ill., and work for this option period is expected to be completed July 15, 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Midwest, Great Lakes, Ill., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $9,598,456 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-09-C-0007) for the procurement of 20 Tomahawk Block IV mid-body range safety system kits and flight test kits. These components will be installed in each Tomahawk Block IV flight test missile to provide telemetry and safety-related communications between the missile and either ground or airborne safety controllers. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (45 percent); Bristol, Pa. (15 percent); San Diego, Calif. (14 percent); Westminster, Colo. (12 percent); Berryville, Ark. (5 percent); Lancaster, Pa. (2 percent); Huntsville, Ala. (1 percent); Joplin, Mo. (1 percent); Tulsa, Okla. (1 percent); Ontario, Calif. (1 percent); and miscellaneous locations throughout the U.S. (3 percent). Work is expected to be completed in May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Y. Hata & Co., Ltd.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a maximum $40,500,000 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, sole-source contract for full-line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is April 14, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3295).
Y. Hata & Co., Ltd.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a maximum $10,125,000 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, sole-source contract for full-line food distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is April 14, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3294).
Adanac Industries, Inc.*, Eastlake, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $8,856,000 firm-fixed-price with indefinite-quantity for antifriction bearing housing. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The date of performance completion is Dec. 24, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0237).
Adanac Industries, Inc.*, Eastlake, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $8,856,000 firm-fixed-price with indefinite-quantity for antifriction bearing housing. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The date of performance completion is Dec. 29, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0251).
ARMY
Raydon Corp., Daytona Beach, Fla., was awarded on July 9 a $36,355,550 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for 11 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle virtual trainers for the Army National Guard. Work is to be performed in Daytona Beach, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2011. Over 50 bids were solicited with one bid received. National Guard Bureau, ZC-AQ, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (W9133L-10-F-0130).
Conti Federal Services, Inc., South Plainfield, N.J., was awarded on July 7 a $7,027,043 firm-fixed-price contract. T his contract is for the construction of "Westbank and Vicinity, New Orleans, LA Hurricane Protection Project, WBV-09C Hero to Oakville HWY 23 Crossing; Plaquemines Parish, La." Work is to be performed in Plaquemines Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of May 23, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0095).
Science Application International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on July 9 a $5,549,168 firm-fixed-price contract for non-personal services in support of the "Advanced Electronic Magnetic Pulse Test & Technical Assistance In Accordance with Statement of Work." Work is to be performed in Fort Belvoir, Va., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2013. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Defense Threat Reduction Agency, R&D Enterprise Contracts, BE-BCRB, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (DTRA01-03-D-0005).
AIR FORCE
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, N.M., was awarded a $5,892,639 contract which will establish an educational outreach program that will develop, implement and maintain an integrated education recruitment and professional development system. At this time, $240,000 has been obligated. AFRL/RVKE, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the contracting activity (FA9451-10-2-0259).
Boeing Co., Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded a $7,000,000 contract which will support the 40mm gun requirement for the AC-130 Plus Four program. At this time, $1,173,207 has been obligated. 782 CBSG/GBKAA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8520-10-D-0010).
No More C-17s, Defense Officials Tell Congress
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
July 13, 2010 - The military has more than enough large transport planes, and the appropriation of any more in the next budget year will force some into premature retirement, Defense Department officials told a congressional panel today.
"We have enough C-17s," Mike McCord, principal deputy undersecretary of defense (comptroller), said. "Money spent on things we don't need takes away from those we do need."
Along with McCord, Air Force Maj. Gen. Susan Y. Desjardins, director of strategic plans for Air Mobility Command, and Alan Estevez, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for logistical and materiel readiness, repeated Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' position against the purchase of more C-17s to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs' federal financial management ubcommittee.
All three defense officials agreed with the subcommittee's leaders, Sens. Thomas Carper and John McCain, that the C-17, in addition to the C-5, has been critical to airlift in and out of Iraq and Afghanistan. However, they said, the military's current fleet of 223 C-17s and 111 C-5s is more than enough airlift capability for years to come.
A department study that concluded in February was consistent with two other studies that found that the current fleet is sufficient "even in the most demanding environments" to take the military through 2016, McCord said. The oldest plane in the transport fleet, Lockheed's C-5A Galaxy, will be viable until 2025, and the fleet as a whole should last until 2040, he said.
The department has not requested C-17s, built by Boeing, since the fiscal 2007 budget, yet Congress has added them every year since, spending about $1.25 billion on C-17s "that we don't want or need," said McCord, a 21-year staff member of the Senate Armed Services Committee before his current appointment.
Any additional appropriation for C-17s will have to be offset by retiring some of the military's older – but still viable -- transport planes, the defense officials said.
And, the defense officials said, adding force structure such as aircraft always entails additional costs in training, maintenance, and infrastructure, such as new hangars, bases and tooling. The department spends about $50,000 per aircraft per year to store aircraft where spare parts are available, Desjardins said.
"It's the gift that keeps on giving, because if you give it to us, we'll maintain it," Estevez said.
It would be more cost-effective, the defense officials said, to modify the C-5M for longer viability to continue to work in conjunction with the C-17.
Desjardins called the C-17 the "backbone" of the air mobility fleet, and said the C-5's combination of long range, high capacity and capability to carry outsize cargo is unequaled. Together, she said, "they meet the needs for cargo and capacity anywhere in the world."
Retiring the least-capable C-5s would save about $320 million, Desjardins said.
"Making tradeoffs of two types of aircraft when we already have more than enough of both is not going be cost effective," McCord said.
Asked what the department would cut to accommodate any new C-17s, McCord said that would depend on how many new C-17s were bought. "You and Congress would decide that," he said, "because you would cut from our budget about $300 million for every C-17 added."
"We have a good mix right now," Estevez said. "Replacement is definitely not the most cost-effective way. Buying more to retire more is certainly not the way the department needs to balance its resources."
The defense secretary has made that case to Congress, and President Barack Obama has promised to veto any legislation that provides for more C-17s.
American Forces Press Service
July 13, 2010 - The military has more than enough large transport planes, and the appropriation of any more in the next budget year will force some into premature retirement, Defense Department officials told a congressional panel today.
"We have enough C-17s," Mike McCord, principal deputy undersecretary of defense (comptroller), said. "Money spent on things we don't need takes away from those we do need."
Along with McCord, Air Force Maj. Gen. Susan Y. Desjardins, director of strategic plans for Air Mobility Command, and Alan Estevez, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for logistical and materiel readiness, repeated Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' position against the purchase of more C-17s to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs' federal financial management ubcommittee.
All three defense officials agreed with the subcommittee's leaders, Sens. Thomas Carper and John McCain, that the C-17, in addition to the C-5, has been critical to airlift in and out of Iraq and Afghanistan. However, they said, the military's current fleet of 223 C-17s and 111 C-5s is more than enough airlift capability for years to come.
A department study that concluded in February was consistent with two other studies that found that the current fleet is sufficient "even in the most demanding environments" to take the military through 2016, McCord said. The oldest plane in the transport fleet, Lockheed's C-5A Galaxy, will be viable until 2025, and the fleet as a whole should last until 2040, he said.
The department has not requested C-17s, built by Boeing, since the fiscal 2007 budget, yet Congress has added them every year since, spending about $1.25 billion on C-17s "that we don't want or need," said McCord, a 21-year staff member of the Senate Armed Services Committee before his current appointment.
Any additional appropriation for C-17s will have to be offset by retiring some of the military's older – but still viable -- transport planes, the defense officials said.
And, the defense officials said, adding force structure such as aircraft always entails additional costs in training, maintenance, and infrastructure, such as new hangars, bases and tooling. The department spends about $50,000 per aircraft per year to store aircraft where spare parts are available, Desjardins said.
"It's the gift that keeps on giving, because if you give it to us, we'll maintain it," Estevez said.
It would be more cost-effective, the defense officials said, to modify the C-5M for longer viability to continue to work in conjunction with the C-17.
Desjardins called the C-17 the "backbone" of the air mobility fleet, and said the C-5's combination of long range, high capacity and capability to carry outsize cargo is unequaled. Together, she said, "they meet the needs for cargo and capacity anywhere in the world."
Retiring the least-capable C-5s would save about $320 million, Desjardins said.
"Making tradeoffs of two types of aircraft when we already have more than enough of both is not going be cost effective," McCord said.
Asked what the department would cut to accommodate any new C-17s, McCord said that would depend on how many new C-17s were bought. "You and Congress would decide that," he said, "because you would cut from our budget about $300 million for every C-17 added."
"We have a good mix right now," Estevez said. "Replacement is definitely not the most cost-effective way. Buying more to retire more is certainly not the way the department needs to balance its resources."
The defense secretary has made that case to Congress, and President Barack Obama has promised to veto any legislation that provides for more C-17s.
Wisconsin Air Guard to support gulf oil spill response efforts
Date: July 13, 2010
Four Airmen with the Wisconsin Air National Guard are expected to depart this week to support response operations in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Airmen - all noncommissioned officers - will work in an Air Force North secondary air operations center to manage the airspace in the area of the Deepwater Horizon gulf oil spill recovery effort. Three of the Airmen hail from the 128th Air Refueling Wing; Tech. Sgt. Jill Hofstetter, Reeseville is an air surveillance technician with the 128th Air Control Squadron, a position she's held the past two years. Prior to that, she served eight years in the active Air Force.
"This will be a change of pace," she explained while outprocessing at the 115th Fighter Wing. "It's been two years - I miss the active duty pace."
The Wisconsin Airmen will be among 57 National Guard members to staff the command center. Those Guard members will include pilots, navigators, air battle managers and air traffic controllers, and intelligence. The duty is expected to last up to 120 days. According to Maj. David May, deputy director of operations for the Wisconsin National Guard joint staff, additional Airmen from Wisconsin may be called upon to support this mission. While these would be the first Guard members from Wisconsin to assist in the gulf oil spill recovery operations, National Guard Soldiers and Airmen from the gulf states and others have been on active state duty to help combat the oil spill since early May.
Four Airmen with the Wisconsin Air National Guard are expected to depart this week to support response operations in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Airmen - all noncommissioned officers - will work in an Air Force North secondary air operations center to manage the airspace in the area of the Deepwater Horizon gulf oil spill recovery effort. Three of the Airmen hail from the 128th Air Refueling Wing; Tech. Sgt. Jill Hofstetter, Reeseville is an air surveillance technician with the 128th Air Control Squadron, a position she's held the past two years. Prior to that, she served eight years in the active Air Force.
"This will be a change of pace," she explained while outprocessing at the 115th Fighter Wing. "It's been two years - I miss the active duty pace."
The Wisconsin Airmen will be among 57 National Guard members to staff the command center. Those Guard members will include pilots, navigators, air battle managers and air traffic controllers, and intelligence. The duty is expected to last up to 120 days. According to Maj. David May, deputy director of operations for the Wisconsin National Guard joint staff, additional Airmen from Wisconsin may be called upon to support this mission. While these would be the first Guard members from Wisconsin to assist in the gulf oil spill recovery operations, National Guard Soldiers and Airmen from the gulf states and others have been on active state duty to help combat the oil spill since early May.
USS Chafee Returns to Pearl Harbor
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- More than 250 Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) after a three-month deployment in the Western Pacific July 12.
Chafee departed JBPHH April 5 for an independent deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.
"This was a very productive deployment," said Cmdr. Chase Patrick, commanding officer of Chafee. "We never had a bad day at sea, we had a lot of fun and we got a lot of work accomplished."
While on deployment, Chafee took part in Exercise Malabar 2010, a week-long bilateral military exercise hosted by the Indian Navy to promote the interoperability between the United States and India.
Chafee also participated in operations supporting Commander Task Force 70 and trained alongside the Malaysian Navy.
Patrick spoke about how well the crew performed during the deployment.
"The crew performed great. They were very proficient from the navigation detail down to the engineers," said Patrick. "They did their jobs exceedingly well."
Friends and families were excited to see their Sailors return home as they waited at the pier.
Guided-missile destroyers are multimission surface combatants, capable of anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare missions. They operate independently for support of carrier and expeditionary strike groups.
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- More than 250 Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) after a three-month deployment in the Western Pacific July 12.
Chafee departed JBPHH April 5 for an independent deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.
"This was a very productive deployment," said Cmdr. Chase Patrick, commanding officer of Chafee. "We never had a bad day at sea, we had a lot of fun and we got a lot of work accomplished."
While on deployment, Chafee took part in Exercise Malabar 2010, a week-long bilateral military exercise hosted by the Indian Navy to promote the interoperability between the United States and India.
Chafee also participated in operations supporting Commander Task Force 70 and trained alongside the Malaysian Navy.
Patrick spoke about how well the crew performed during the deployment.
"The crew performed great. They were very proficient from the navigation detail down to the engineers," said Patrick. "They did their jobs exceedingly well."
Friends and families were excited to see their Sailors return home as they waited at the pier.
Guided-missile destroyers are multimission surface combatants, capable of anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare missions. They operate independently for support of carrier and expeditionary strike groups.
Third-Generation Officer Takes Oath
Joint Task Force 435
July 13, 2010 - One of the Navy's newest officers joined the ranks in a unique way July 9 when he received his commissioning oath via video teleconference from his uncle, a Navy vice admiral who commands a joint task force in Afghanistan. The commissioning of Ensign Ian Kriegish by Vice Adm. Robert S. Harward, Joint Task Force 435 commander, marked the beginning of the third generation of his family to serve as an officer in the Navy.
"We are all very proud of you -- proud of you for what you're doing," Harward told his nephew. "You're taking on this obligation when we're at war, and you'll serve while we're at war. There's no greater purpose that you could have in life, so go out and serve the fleet well."
Harward introduced Kriegish to the Navy. As a recent honors graduate from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill., Kriegish was undecided about his future. But a visit to his uncle's home in Norfolk, Va., changed that.
"When he was visiting me in Norfolk, he didn't know what he wanted to do," Harward said. "I live near the [aircraft] carrier, so we just walked over and walked on some of the ships. We talked to some young kids who were just junior officers. He decided that joining seemed interesting, so he applied."
After finding out that he had aced the entry test and had been accepted to become an intelligence officer, Kriegish began Officer Candidate School.
"When he applied, he wanted intel, so he was excited to be accepted by them and to have that be what he's going to do for the next few years," Harward said.
After receiving his commission, Kriegish was congratulated by his attending family and his video-teleconferencing uncle. "Congratulations, Ensign Kriegish," the admiral said. "I just wish I could be there to be your first salute."
After a small talk with the family, Harward offered a parting, "Go get 'em, Ensign Kriegish," as he sent his nephew to join the fleet.
Joint Task Force 435 assumed responsibility for U.S. detention operations -- including the care and custody of detainees at the detention facility in Parwan -- oversight of detainee review processes, programs for the peaceful reintegration of detainees into society, and coordination with other agencies and partners for the promotion of the rule of law in Afghanistan.
AF attends International Bowl Expo
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
LAS VEGAS – Air Force bowling representatives learned marketing tips and how to make Air Force bowling centers more innovative during the recent Military Training Program at the 2010 International Bowl Expo here.
According to Air Force Services Agency officials, the annual expo brings together bowling professionals from around the world to collaborate and share ideas. The Air Force also provides hands-on training, certifications and educational seminars for bowling managers and coaches.
Educational topics included technology, marketing/promotions, best practices, food and beverage operations, pro shop operations, entertainment income, business planning and coaching. The expo showcased new products and recreational simulators Air Force bowling managers can introduce to their bowling centers.
“This is the one time of year when the entire industry comes together to network and share ideas,” said Don Freund, Air Force bowling program manager. “There are several ideas we can take from industry experts that open our minds on how we can better serve our Airmen and families.”
According to Mr. Freund, training was successful. The majority of attendees took interest in an advanced management course that focused on marketing and demographics. By the end of the course, bowling managers developed extensive summer plans to be implemented at their installations.
“We will continue to focus on program development, center operations and work closely with the industry experts to improve management education to benefit Airmen and their families,” Mr. Freund said.
Bowling centers already offer Airmen and families programs such as:
Hook up the Bowling: A new player development course taught by a U.S. Bowling Congress-certified coach that teaches novice bowlers the basics in the sport, bowling courtesy and rules of the game. Students leave the course with their own bowling ball and bag. Interested participants should check with their local bowling center to sign up for a class.
Summer program/specials: Every bowling center that registers receives support from the Air Force Services Agency to develop summer programs to support the wants and needs of their community. Customers can find anything from open play specials, summer leagues and/or summer youth camps. Most of these programs include bowler incentives that reward the player for participation.
For more information on what individual bowling centers offer, visit local Force Support Squadron “FSS.com” websites or visit the U.S. Air Force Services website at www.usafservices.com.
LAS VEGAS – Air Force bowling representatives learned marketing tips and how to make Air Force bowling centers more innovative during the recent Military Training Program at the 2010 International Bowl Expo here.
According to Air Force Services Agency officials, the annual expo brings together bowling professionals from around the world to collaborate and share ideas. The Air Force also provides hands-on training, certifications and educational seminars for bowling managers and coaches.
Educational topics included technology, marketing/promotions, best practices, food and beverage operations, pro shop operations, entertainment income, business planning and coaching. The expo showcased new products and recreational simulators Air Force bowling managers can introduce to their bowling centers.
“This is the one time of year when the entire industry comes together to network and share ideas,” said Don Freund, Air Force bowling program manager. “There are several ideas we can take from industry experts that open our minds on how we can better serve our Airmen and families.”
According to Mr. Freund, training was successful. The majority of attendees took interest in an advanced management course that focused on marketing and demographics. By the end of the course, bowling managers developed extensive summer plans to be implemented at their installations.
“We will continue to focus on program development, center operations and work closely with the industry experts to improve management education to benefit Airmen and their families,” Mr. Freund said.
Bowling centers already offer Airmen and families programs such as:
Hook up the Bowling: A new player development course taught by a U.S. Bowling Congress-certified coach that teaches novice bowlers the basics in the sport, bowling courtesy and rules of the game. Students leave the course with their own bowling ball and bag. Interested participants should check with their local bowling center to sign up for a class.
Summer program/specials: Every bowling center that registers receives support from the Air Force Services Agency to develop summer programs to support the wants and needs of their community. Customers can find anything from open play specials, summer leagues and/or summer youth camps. Most of these programs include bowler incentives that reward the player for participation.
For more information on what individual bowling centers offer, visit local Force Support Squadron “FSS.com” websites or visit the U.S. Air Force Services website at www.usafservices.com.
DOD Announces Recruiting and Retention Numbers for June 2010
The Department of Defense announced today its recruiting and retention statistics for the active and reserve components for June 2010.
Active Component.
Recruiting. All four active services met or exceeded their accession goals for June 2010.
• Army – 7,438 accessions with a goal of 7,328; 102 percent
• Navy – 3,209 accessions with a goal of 3,209; 100 percent
• Marine Corps – 4,048 accessions with a goal of 4,046; 100 percent
• Air Force – 1,935 accessions with a goal of 1,931; 100 percent
Retention. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force retention are at or above the fiscal year-to-date goals for the first nine months of the year.
Reserve Component.
Recruiting. Four of the six reserve components exceeded their accession goals for June 2010. Both the Army and Air National Guard intentionally slowed June accessions because they are exceeding their fiscal year-to-date recruiting goal.
• Army National Guard – 4,544 accessions with a goal of 4,825; 94 percent
• Army Reserve – 1,865 accessions with a goal of 1,690; 110 percent
• Navy Reserve – 694 accessions with a goal of 694; 100 percent
• Marine Corps Reserve – 1,296 accessions with a goal of 1,183; 110 percent
• Air National Guard – 501 accessions with a goal of 507; 99 percent
• Air Force Reserve – 778 accessions with a goal of 754; 103 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 June 2010.
• Army – 7,438 accessions with a goal of 7,328; 102 percent
• Navy – 3,209 accessions with a goal of 3,209; 100 percent
• Marine Corps – 4,048 accessions with a goal of 4,046; 100 percent
• Air Force – 1,935 accessions with a goal of 1,931; 100 percent
Retention. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force retention are at or above the fiscal year-to-date goals for the first nine months of the year.
Reserve Component.
Recruiting. Four of the six reserve components exceeded their accession goals for June 2010. Both the Army and Air National Guard intentionally slowed June accessions because they are exceeding their fiscal year-to-date recruiting goal.
• Army National Guard – 4,544 accessions with a goal of 4,825; 94 percent
• Army Reserve – 1,865 accessions with a goal of 1,690; 110 percent
• Navy Reserve – 694 accessions with a goal of 694; 100 percent
• Marine Corps Reserve – 1,296 accessions with a goal of 1,183; 110 percent
• Air National Guard – 501 accessions with a goal of 507; 99 percent
• Air Force Reserve – 778 accessions with a goal of 754; 103 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.
F-22 Raptor rolls out in Hawaii
7/12/2010 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) -- Top military and local community leaders gathered here July 9 for a dedication service for the F-22 Raptor.
Hundreds of onlookers gathered with members of the 199th Fighter Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard and people from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to welcome the F-22, a fifth generation fighter, which replaces the F-15 Eagle that the squadron has flown since 1987. The 199th FS is the first guard unit to receive the F-22.
"The 199th (FS members prove) that National Guard forces are capable of maintaining a strategic presence with its active duty association and providing a great value to our nation and the state of Hawaii," said Gen. Craig R. McKinley, the chief of the National Guard Bureau.
The F-22, a single-seat, twin engine aircraft that utilizes stealth technology, was originally designed primarily as an air superiority fighter.
"These F-22 Raptors are the state of the art air superiority fighter and couldn't be located at a better place," General McKinley said.
Many of the guard members will serve as the lead in a "total force" concept that is already in use at JB Hickam. The 19th FS, 15th Air Wing will fly and help maintain the F-22s that bring a new capability to the HIANG, as well as the Air Force.
"The Air Force is a seamless total force. Along with our Air Force Reserve and civilians, the National Guard and our active duty component form a very severe fighting force that can get the job done," Gen. McKinley said.
Final MC-12 deployed to USCENTCOM AOR
by Master Sgt. Russell Petcoff
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
7/12/2010 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The 30th MC-12 Liberty was recently deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility completing the initial deployment plan, an Air Force official announced July 9.
"We mobilized a significant industry base and every resource at our disposal, and delivered the first Federal Aviation Administration-certified aircraft in six months and three weeks," said Lt. Gen. David A. Deptula, the deputy chief of staff for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance at Headquarters Air Force. "It began flying combat sorties in less than eight months."
"This was an extraordinary team effort by a hand-picked, incredibly dedicated industry and Air Force team," General Deptula said. "The MC-12W is the fastest weapons system delivered from concept to combat since the P-51 Mustang in World War II."
The MC-12W is a medium- to low-altitude, twin-engine turboprop aircraft. Its primary mission is providing ISR support directly to ground forces.
The aircraft has had a positive impact in the AOR, General Deptula said. It has assisted in the capture of hundreds of insurgents, and the discovery of weapons caches and improvised explosive devices.
The MC-12 fleet has flown more than 5,000 combat sorties and taken more than 22,000 hours of full-motion video and more than 40,000 images to date.
"This project is an unqualified success, and the model for how we should develop and deliver quick-reaction ISR capabilities," General Deptula said.
The aircraft are military versions of the Hawker Beechcraft Super King Air 350 and Super King 350ER. They are equipped with an electro-optical infrared sensor, and other sensors as the mission requires. The EO/IR sensor also includes a laser illuminator and designator in a single sensor package. A fully operational system consists of a modified aircraft with sensors, a ground exploitation cell, line-of-sight and satellite communications data-links, and a robust voice communications suite.
The MC-12 capability supports all aspects of the Air Force Irregular Warfare mission -- counter insurgency, foreign internal defense and building partnership capacity -- and is capable of worldwide operations.
In April 2008, Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates established a Department of Defense-wide ISR Task Force to identify and recommend solutions for increased ISR in the CENTCOM AOR. Secretary Gates tasked Air Force officials July 1, 2008, to acquire 37 "C-12" class aircraft to augment unmanned systems. It was less than eight months from funding approval to the delivery of the first aircraft in theater.
"The entire Project Liberty team worked seamlessly to get this airborne ISR capability to the AOR as quickly as possible," said Lt. Gen Craig Koziol, the DOD ISR Task Force director. "From concept to all the sensor integration efforts required to get this platform deployed, the team demonstrated superb focus to get this quick reaction, airborne ISR capability fielded to support (Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom)."
The entire operational fleet of 30 aircraft was deployed in only 13 months.
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
7/12/2010 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The 30th MC-12 Liberty was recently deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility completing the initial deployment plan, an Air Force official announced July 9.
"We mobilized a significant industry base and every resource at our disposal, and delivered the first Federal Aviation Administration-certified aircraft in six months and three weeks," said Lt. Gen. David A. Deptula, the deputy chief of staff for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance at Headquarters Air Force. "It began flying combat sorties in less than eight months."
"This was an extraordinary team effort by a hand-picked, incredibly dedicated industry and Air Force team," General Deptula said. "The MC-12W is the fastest weapons system delivered from concept to combat since the P-51 Mustang in World War II."
The MC-12W is a medium- to low-altitude, twin-engine turboprop aircraft. Its primary mission is providing ISR support directly to ground forces.
The aircraft has had a positive impact in the AOR, General Deptula said. It has assisted in the capture of hundreds of insurgents, and the discovery of weapons caches and improvised explosive devices.
The MC-12 fleet has flown more than 5,000 combat sorties and taken more than 22,000 hours of full-motion video and more than 40,000 images to date.
"This project is an unqualified success, and the model for how we should develop and deliver quick-reaction ISR capabilities," General Deptula said.
The aircraft are military versions of the Hawker Beechcraft Super King Air 350 and Super King 350ER. They are equipped with an electro-optical infrared sensor, and other sensors as the mission requires. The EO/IR sensor also includes a laser illuminator and designator in a single sensor package. A fully operational system consists of a modified aircraft with sensors, a ground exploitation cell, line-of-sight and satellite communications data-links, and a robust voice communications suite.
The MC-12 capability supports all aspects of the Air Force Irregular Warfare mission -- counter insurgency, foreign internal defense and building partnership capacity -- and is capable of worldwide operations.
In April 2008, Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates established a Department of Defense-wide ISR Task Force to identify and recommend solutions for increased ISR in the CENTCOM AOR. Secretary Gates tasked Air Force officials July 1, 2008, to acquire 37 "C-12" class aircraft to augment unmanned systems. It was less than eight months from funding approval to the delivery of the first aircraft in theater.
"The entire Project Liberty team worked seamlessly to get this airborne ISR capability to the AOR as quickly as possible," said Lt. Gen Craig Koziol, the DOD ISR Task Force director. "From concept to all the sensor integration efforts required to get this platform deployed, the team demonstrated superb focus to get this quick reaction, airborne ISR capability fielded to support (Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom)."
The entire operational fleet of 30 aircraft was deployed in only 13 months.
Iwo Jima Deploys in Support of Continuing Promise
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Morgan E. Dial, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) departed Naval Station Norfolk July 12 in support of Continuing Promise 2010 (CP10).
Continuing Promise is an annual humanitarian civic assistance operation that provides opportunities to establish new partnerships with other nations, non-government organizations (NGOs), international government organizations and learn from host nations and civilian experts.
During the scheduled four-month surge, relief operations will be conducted in Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Panama and Suriname.
CP10 is a U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) directed operation implemented by U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F).
There are more than 1,600 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and civilians including Commander Amphibious Squadron 6, Fleet Surgical Team 2, Navy Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 202, Maritime Civil Affairs Team 206, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF), CLR-25 Medical Detachment and contingents of medical personnel from the armed forces of The Netherlands, Canada and Germany and various other satellite commands embarked on board Iwo Jima.
Iwo Jima's medical team will work alongside Central American, South American and Caribbean medical teams as well as NGOs. Together, the teams are capable of providing general surgical care, primary and consultative care, ophthalmologic services, optometric services, preventative and environmental health, dental screenings and treatment, public health training and veterinary services.
"Iwo Jima has the optimal blend of medical, surgical and dental capabilities," said Capt. Michael T. Hopkins, Iwo Jima's senior medical officer. "In addition, we have more capability to transport people and supplies from the flight deck and well deck than the USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) during their deployments."
Seabees from CBMU 202 in Norfolk will be supporting the civic action programs along with detachments from Jacksonville and Key West, Fla., and Kings Bay, Ga. They will provide local communities with building repairs and improvements, new small construction projects, utility system repairs and other projects depending on the host nation's needs.
SPMAGTF will also provide medical and engineering support to this humanitarian civic assistance by conducting subject matter expert exchanges with specified partner nations. In addition, they will provide air and ground transportation for nearly all of the medical, engineering and community relation sites.
"I am so very proud of this crew. Since I took command in 2008, all tasks that have been put in front of them, they have simply knocked them out of the park," said Capt. Jeff Amick, Iwo Jima commanding officer. "These great Americans have exceeded every expectation throughout a very challenging year and a half. I am extremely confident that this humanitarian mission is going to really showcase this ship, these Sailors and Marines and our Navy's ability to respond to any situation when tasked. This crew is ready to respond and could not be more ready to deliver."
COMUSNAVSO is the naval component command for USSOUTHCOM and is responsible for all Naval personnel and assets in the area of responsibility.
COMUSNAVSO conducts a variety of missions in support of the U.S. Maritime Strategy, including theater security cooperation, relationship building, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, community relations and counter-illicit trafficking operations.
NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) departed Naval Station Norfolk July 12 in support of Continuing Promise 2010 (CP10).
Continuing Promise is an annual humanitarian civic assistance operation that provides opportunities to establish new partnerships with other nations, non-government organizations (NGOs), international government organizations and learn from host nations and civilian experts.
During the scheduled four-month surge, relief operations will be conducted in Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Panama and Suriname.
CP10 is a U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) directed operation implemented by U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F).
There are more than 1,600 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and civilians including Commander Amphibious Squadron 6, Fleet Surgical Team 2, Navy Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 202, Maritime Civil Affairs Team 206, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF), CLR-25 Medical Detachment and contingents of medical personnel from the armed forces of The Netherlands, Canada and Germany and various other satellite commands embarked on board Iwo Jima.
Iwo Jima's medical team will work alongside Central American, South American and Caribbean medical teams as well as NGOs. Together, the teams are capable of providing general surgical care, primary and consultative care, ophthalmologic services, optometric services, preventative and environmental health, dental screenings and treatment, public health training and veterinary services.
"Iwo Jima has the optimal blend of medical, surgical and dental capabilities," said Capt. Michael T. Hopkins, Iwo Jima's senior medical officer. "In addition, we have more capability to transport people and supplies from the flight deck and well deck than the USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) during their deployments."
Seabees from CBMU 202 in Norfolk will be supporting the civic action programs along with detachments from Jacksonville and Key West, Fla., and Kings Bay, Ga. They will provide local communities with building repairs and improvements, new small construction projects, utility system repairs and other projects depending on the host nation's needs.
SPMAGTF will also provide medical and engineering support to this humanitarian civic assistance by conducting subject matter expert exchanges with specified partner nations. In addition, they will provide air and ground transportation for nearly all of the medical, engineering and community relation sites.
"I am so very proud of this crew. Since I took command in 2008, all tasks that have been put in front of them, they have simply knocked them out of the park," said Capt. Jeff Amick, Iwo Jima commanding officer. "These great Americans have exceeded every expectation throughout a very challenging year and a half. I am extremely confident that this humanitarian mission is going to really showcase this ship, these Sailors and Marines and our Navy's ability to respond to any situation when tasked. This crew is ready to respond and could not be more ready to deliver."
COMUSNAVSO is the naval component command for USSOUTHCOM and is responsible for all Naval personnel and assets in the area of responsibility.
COMUSNAVSO conducts a variety of missions in support of the U.S. Maritime Strategy, including theater security cooperation, relationship building, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, community relations and counter-illicit trafficking operations.
Milwaukee-based security forces Airmen prepare to deploy
Date: July 12, 2010
By Senior Airman Ryan Kuntze
128th Air Refueling Wing
Seventeen Airmen assigned to the Wisconsin Air National Guard's 128th Air Refueling Wing Security Forces Squadron have completed combat skills training at Fort Dix, N.J. The training is part of a 180-day deployment to the Transit Center at Manas, where the members will provide air base security for the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing.
The Airmen received a send-off June 23 from their families, Wing senior leadership officials and other security forces team members at Sijan Hall. Four members have already left for the Transit Center at Manas, while the remaining members will deploy later this month.
"I'm proud of them for being willing to go again," said Maj. Glenn Evenson, the 128th Air Refueling Wing security forces' commander.
Evenson's comment underscores the volunteer status of the team members.
Security forces team members are able to sign up for deployments, rather being ordered to go overseas, according to Master Sgt. Mark Warner, the 128th Security Forces Squadron training manager.
"This is what we do," Warner said.
The 128th Air Refueling Wing family support office is prepared to help the family members who stay behind while their loved ones go overseas.
"It's a challenging time for families," said Elaine Schachelmayer, the Airman and Family Program manager. "I just want to remind [the families] that we're here. We'll walk the walk with them."
The security forces team members spent approximately one month at Fort Dix to complete their combat skills training prior to deploying overseas. Combat skills training is a mandatory program for all service members, designed to reinforce war fighting skills, teach battlefield first aid techniques and hone necessary attributes for enduring a lengthy stay in hostile environments.
By Senior Airman Ryan Kuntze
128th Air Refueling Wing
Seventeen Airmen assigned to the Wisconsin Air National Guard's 128th Air Refueling Wing Security Forces Squadron have completed combat skills training at Fort Dix, N.J. The training is part of a 180-day deployment to the Transit Center at Manas, where the members will provide air base security for the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing.
The Airmen received a send-off June 23 from their families, Wing senior leadership officials and other security forces team members at Sijan Hall. Four members have already left for the Transit Center at Manas, while the remaining members will deploy later this month.
"I'm proud of them for being willing to go again," said Maj. Glenn Evenson, the 128th Air Refueling Wing security forces' commander.
Evenson's comment underscores the volunteer status of the team members.
Security forces team members are able to sign up for deployments, rather being ordered to go overseas, according to Master Sgt. Mark Warner, the 128th Security Forces Squadron training manager.
"This is what we do," Warner said.
The 128th Air Refueling Wing family support office is prepared to help the family members who stay behind while their loved ones go overseas.
"It's a challenging time for families," said Elaine Schachelmayer, the Airman and Family Program manager. "I just want to remind [the families] that we're here. We'll walk the walk with them."
The security forces team members spent approximately one month at Fort Dix to complete their combat skills training prior to deploying overseas. Combat skills training is a mandatory program for all service members, designed to reinforce war fighting skills, teach battlefield first aid techniques and hone necessary attributes for enduring a lengthy stay in hostile environments.
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