VA Makes Progress to End Veteran Homelessness

By Donna Miles

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 31, 2011 – They served their country in uniform -– many on the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan. And now that they’ve returned home and rejoined civilian life, an alarming number of veterans have found themselves on the streets and living under bridges.

The Veterans Affairs Department is making progress on its commitment to end homelessness among veterans, Deputy VA Secretary W. Scott Gould told American Forces Press Service, striving to achieve that goal ahead of its original 2015 timetable.

“This is a big, bold goal,” Gould said of the pledge President Barack Obama and VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki announced in 2009.

“What I see there is the president and secretary willing to do something that rarely happens in government, which is to set a clear, measurable and time-phased goal -- zero homelessness by 2015 for our veterans -- and then apply the resources, the planning and the leadership to make that happen,” Gould said.

Shinseki has become even more forward-leaning on the issue, vowing to achieve those aims a year ahead of schedule.

“As the president has said, ‘We’re not going to be satisfied until every veteran who has fought for America has a home in America,’” he told the Marine Corps League in February. “If you wonder what I will be working on for the next several years, this is it. We will end veteran homelessness in 2014.”

Also last month, Shinseki told the Disabled American Veterans that major progress has been made. The number of homeless veterans has dropped from about 195,000 six years ago to about 76,000, he reported. VA is working to bring that figure below 59,000 by the end of June 2012, and ultimately, to zero.

VA’s fiscal 2012 budget request includes $939 million – up more than $140 million from last year -- for programs to support this mission and build on progress made.

A comprehensive review is under way to identify vacant or underused buildings in VA’s inventory that could house homeless and at-risk veterans and their families, Shinseki told the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee earlier this month.

So far, VA has identified 94 sites that, once renovated with funds allocated by Congress, could add another 6,300 housing units through public-private ventures using VA’s enhanced-use lease authority, he reported. With this authority scheduled to lapse Dec. 31, Shinseki has urged Congress to provide the reauthorization needed for VA to continue increasing housing for homeless veterans and their families.

Meanwhile, the most flexible and responsive option remains the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing voucher program, Shinseki said. The program combines Housing Voice Voucher rental assistance for homeless veterans with case management and clinical services by VA.

Shinseki said it’s the only option currently available to provide housing for homeless veterans with families.

Gould, attending the 25th National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic in Snowmass Village, Colo., earlier this week, recognized that homelessness is more than a housing issue and typically stems from health and mental-health problems.

“Homelessness is really a symptom and the end step in a long stage of deterioration,” he said, citing issues ranging from job loss or economic duress to lack of access to health care, relationship problems or chemical dependence.

“So we have invested a lot in improving access to the health care that prevents homelessness,” Gould said. He cited growth in VA’s Veterans Health Administration budget to provide more proactive, preventive mental health and psychological counseling, as well as other health care.

This care helps veterans tackle problems at their root and introduces them to the broad array of programs in place to help in preventing them from slipping into homelessness, he said. “Once they are [at VA], we have the tools and capabilities to be able to help them,” he said.

Gould personally has witnessed the homelessness problem. On a cold, wintery night in late January, he joined Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan and Interagency Council on Homelessness Director Barbara Poppe, walking the downtown streets of the nation’s capital as part of a national count of homeless persons and families.

“It was a striking experience,” Gould said of his opportunity to meet personally with homeless veterans during HUD’s national “Let’s Make Everybody Count!” campaign.

Equally striking, he said, is that when he asked a homeless man he met if he was a veteran, the man responded that he wasn’t –- “but I wish I were, because of all the great programs you have.”

Defense leaders have joined VA and the president in calling veteran homelessness a scourge on America that must be addressed.

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been particularly outspoken on the issue, concerned that a new generation of combat veterans is slipping into the same situation plaguing too many of his Vietnam-era contemporaries.

Mullen said he’s troubled by the number of homeless veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan he has met during his visits to Veterans Affairs hospitals.

"And they are every bit as homeless and every bit as tragic as any homeless vet we've ever had,” Mullen told a Hudson Union Society group in April 2009. “We as a country should not allow that to happen.”

At a National Guard family program volunteer workshop last summer, Mullen shared the story of meeting a young homeless veteran in Los Angeles who had served in both operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Mullen said the veteran told him, “I gave a 100 percent; I’d just like 100 percent back.”

Working with their federal, state and local partners in both the public and private sectors, Gould said VA is committed to providing veterans exactly that.

“Veteran homelessness is not solved by VA alone, but with our HUD partners in federal government, our state governments’ veterans administrations and nongovernmental organizations and local governments,” he said. “It is everyone working together.”

Flags lowered to half-staff in Wisconsin Monday for Army Reserve Cpl. Justin D. Ross

Flags at Wisconsin National Guard armories, air bases and other facilities across the state will fly at half-staff Monday (April 4) in honor of Army Reserve Cpl. Justin D. Ross of Green Bay, Wis., who lost his life while serving his country in Afghanistan. The Guard will render these honors in accordance with an executive order issued by Gov. Scott Walker.

EXECUTIVE ORDER # 23 reads:

Relating to a Proclamation that the Flag of the United States and the Flag of the State of Wisconsin be Flown at Half-Staff as a Mark of Respect for Corporal Justin David Ross of the United States Army Reserve Who Lost His Life While Serving His Country During Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan

WHEREAS, on March 26, 2011, Corporal Justin David Ross, a member of 428th Engineer Company, 863rd Engineer Battalion, Wausau, Wisconsin, United States Army Reserve, died while serving his country in Afghanistan; and

WHEREAS, Corporal Justin David Ross provided faithful and honorable service to the people of the State of Wisconsin and the people of the United States; and

WHEREAS, the people of Wisconsin mourn the death of Corporal Justin David Ross; and

WHEREAS, a memorial service will be held for Corporal Justin David Ross on April 4, 2011;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SCOTT WALKER, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, by the authority vested in me by Federal and State law, do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of the State of Wisconsin shall be flown at half-staff at all buildings, grounds, and military installations of the State of Wisconsin equipped with such flags beginning at sunrise on Monday, April 4, 2011, and ending at sunset on that date.

All Wisconsin state government facilities are covered by the governor's order and a 2007 amendment to the U.S. Flag Code now requires all federal facilities in Wisconsin to comply. Other government agencies, businesses and private residences with flagpoles may also honor Cpl. Justin Ross by lowering their U.S. and Wisconsin state flags to half-staff during the daylight hours on April 4.

We all play a role in allowing — or stopping — sexual assault

By Capt. Kristin Boustany

Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Coordinator

If your daughter had a one-in-four chance of being a victim of a violent robbery just because she went to college, do you think you would let her go?

Renowned speaker, sexual assault prevention advocate and military consultant Anne Munch asked our leaders this question at a recent senior leader conference.

Now consider that one in four women, in a survey of more than 6,000 students from 32 U.S. colleges and universities, were victims of rape or attempted rape.  

Safe Helpline

In a study that included 558 female veterans, 79 percent admitted sexual harassment while in the military; 54 percent experienced unwanted sexual contact and 30 percent experienced one or more rape or attempted rapes! 

In FY2010, military services received 3,158 reports of sexual assault. 

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said, “The department has a no-tolerance policy toward sexual assault. This type of act not only does unconscionable harm to the victim; it destabilized the workplace and threatens national security.”

But how do we enforce this policy? By changing the culture in which we allow ourselves to operate in.

We can start by examining our beliefs and attitudes and how they influence our reaction to — and acceptance of — this senseless crime, and name the "Unnamed Conspirator," Anne explained.

Even though 99 percent of sexual assaults are committed by men, many of us have grown up believing that sexual assault is a woman's issue. Anne cited one study where 88 percent of men whose actions met the legal definition of rape were adamant that what they did was not rape. How has our society influenced those men into thinking that their behavior is acceptable? 

This is the work of the unnamed conspirator.

Some women have bought into the belief that if they invited their assailant over, or if they were drunk, or if they chose to go home with their assailant — but did not in any way give consent — then the assault is not rape because "it’s their own fault," and they don’t report.   How does our culture support victim blaming?

That is the voice of the unnamed conspirator.

Do we hold robbery victims accountable for being robbed because they own a nice house with expensive items inside? Would the police say, "Why did you keep your valuables in plain sight where anyone could see them? You're just asking to be robbed."

Fellow Soldiers and Airmen, this is unacceptable. We must create a climate where the unnamed conspirator will not thrive!  We must all be aware of the potential signs of a sexual assault and know how to intervene as an active bystander. 

Consider Anne’s analysis of her study about women’s risk of sexual assault within the military:

-A climate hostile to women (demeaning, reduced to body parts et cetera) increases the risk of rape six times

-Officers initiating or allowing sexually demeaning comments or gestures toward women increases the risk of rape five times

-Ranking officer or immediate supervisor behaviors were strongly associated with the frequency of rape

This information tells me that there is a direct link between our command climate and reducing this crime.

But our leaders can't fix this problem by themselves.  I encourage you to take that same stance at your armories, wings, in the field and even in social environments, and protect your battle buddies and wingmen.

As a woman in the military for nearly eleven years, and a mother, I truly believe that we have to start holding ourselves accountable for the sometimes lack of intervention in preventing this crime.  As a woman there is not a day that goes by that this crime does not cross my mind in some way shape or form.  Men, do you think about being raped every day or how to protect yourself?  We must change our culture from thinking this is a women’s issue to this is a “people” issue and know that as comrades we will intervene and foster a culture where sexism can’t thrive.  

Have you ever been at a club and notice that one of your battle buddy/wingman is really drunk? Not just buzzed — she can barely stand and is slurring her words? A guy you know asks her if she wants to go back to his place where it is quieter so that they can get to know each other. You believe he's a good guy so you're not worried, but you don't know what to do, so you do nothing. You reassure yourself by saying, “It’s really none of my business — they're both adults.”

Or is it time that we all make this our business?   What actions could you have taken to intervene?

We all play a role in allowing — or stopping — sexual assault

By Capt. Kristin Boustany

Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Coordinator

If your daughter had a one-in-four chance of being a victim of a violent robbery just because she went to college, do you think you would let her go?

Renowned speaker, sexual assault prevention advocate and military consultant Anne Munch asked our leaders this question at a recent senior leader conference.

Now consider that one in four women, in a survey of more than 6,000 students from 32 U.S. colleges and universities, were victims of rape or attempted rape.  

Safe Helpline

In a study that included 558 female veterans, 79 percent admitted sexual harassment while in the military; 54 percent experienced unwanted sexual contact and 30 percent experienced one or more rape or attempted rapes! 

In FY2010, military services received 3,158 reports of sexual assault. 

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said, “The department has a no-tolerance policy toward sexual assault. This type of act not only does unconscionable harm to the victim; it destabilized the workplace and threatens national security.”

But how do we enforce this policy? By changing the culture in which we allow ourselves to operate in.

We can start by examining our beliefs and attitudes and how they influence our reaction to — and acceptance of — this senseless crime, and name the "Unnamed Conspirator," Anne explained.

Even though 99 percent of sexual assaults are committed by men, many of us have grown up believing that sexual assault is a woman's issue. Anne cited one study where 88 percent of men whose actions met the legal definition of rape were adamant that what they did was not rape. How has our society influenced those men into thinking that their behavior is acceptable? 

This is the work of the unnamed conspirator.

Some women have bought into the belief that if they invited their assailant over, or if they were drunk, or if they chose to go home with their assailant — but did not in any way give consent — then the assault is not rape because "it’s their own fault," and they don’t report.   How does our culture support victim blaming?

That is the voice of the unnamed conspirator.

Do we hold robbery victims accountable for being robbed because they own a nice house with expensive items inside? Would the police say, "Why did you keep your valuables in plain sight where anyone could see them? You're just asking to be robbed."

Fellow Soldiers and Airmen, this is unacceptable. We must create a climate where the unnamed conspirator will not thrive!  We must all be aware of the potential signs of a sexual assault and know how to intervene as an active bystander. 

Consider Anne’s analysis of her study about women’s risk of sexual assault within the military:

-A climate hostile to women (demeaning, reduced to body parts et cetera) increases the risk of rape six times

-Officers initiating or allowing sexually demeaning comments or gestures toward women increases the risk of rape five times

-Ranking officer or immediate supervisor behaviors were strongly associated with the frequency of rape

This information tells me that there is a direct link between our command climate and reducing this crime.

But our leaders can't fix this problem by themselves.  I encourage you to take that same stance at your armories, wings, in the field and even in social environments, and protect your battle buddies and wingmen.

As a woman in the military for nearly eleven years, and a mother, I truly believe that we have to start holding ourselves accountable for the sometimes lack of intervention in preventing this crime.  As a woman there is not a day that goes by that this crime does not cross my mind in some way shape or form.  Men, do you think about being raped every day or how to protect yourself?  We must change our culture from thinking this is a women’s issue to this is a “people” issue and know that as comrades we will intervene and foster a culture where sexism can’t thrive.  

Have you ever been at a club and notice that one of your battle buddy/wingman is really drunk? Not just buzzed — she can barely stand and is slurring her words? A guy you know asks her if she wants to go back to his place where it is quieter so that they can get to know each other. You believe he's a good guy so you're not worried, but you don't know what to do, so you do nothing. You reassure yourself by saying, “It’s really none of my business — they're both adults.”

Or is it time that we all make this our business?   What actions could you have taken to intervene?

Family Matters Blog: Kids Serve Too

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2011 – Robert L. Gordon III is the deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy. In this blog, Mr. Gordon thanks military children for their contributions, and highlights a few of the Defense Department programs available to support them.

By Robert L. Gordon III

Military Community and Family Policy

April 1, 2011

Military children continually amaze us as they rise to the challenges of military life. It’s a life of frequent moves, changing schools, leaving friends and making new friends.

During April, the Month of the Military Child, we applaud their character and maturity, and we acknowledge that kids serve too.

Our military community includes 1.8 million American children and youth under 18 years old. The Defense Department offers a wide range of programs and services to support military families and their kids. Just a few of the things we’re working on include:

-- Working with states to minimize school disruption for military children during transition and deployment. The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children provides common guidelines for participating states to follow in handling issues including initial enrollment age, records transfer, graduation requirements and much more. So far, 35 states have adopted the compact, covering 88 percent of students.

-- Increasing access to quality, affordable child care for military families. Today’s National Guard and Reserve forces mobilize and deploy at historic rates. Many military children -- of all branches and components -- live away from military installations, and even when they do live near to one, many locations are unable to meet the demand for care at military child development facilities. The DOD Child Care Expansion Initiative will help answer this growing need by ensuring their access to quality child care in the communities in which they reside.

-- The Department of Defense Education Activity launched an online preregistration application. Through the site, parents can preregister their children in a DOD school from anywhere in the world, and even while on the move from one installation to another.

-- A new, 365-page deployment guide is now available. This guide prepares families for deployment and has chapters dedicated to preparing children for deployment, helping them to cope with separation and the adjustment when the deployed parent comes home.

Additionally, installations around the world offer a huge range of activities for military kids at child care centers, youth centers, clubs and camps.

The professionals at these programs get vital support from volunteers. I see the enormous amount of good done by the hands and hearts of volunteers. Their selfless work changes lives and strengthens our nation.

During the Month of the Military Child, I also encourage you to consider volunteering at any of the many organizations dedicated to military kids. From the Boys and Girls Club of America, 4-H Youth Development and the Armed Services YMCA, these and many other organizations provide quality programs to military families and their children.

Have you volunteered with youth in your community? Where do you volunteer? What inspired you to get started? What experiences have you had? How would you inspire someone else to serve as a volunteer? We'd like you to share your stories on the Facebook wall of Serve.gov.

Is the organization you support listed on Serve.gov? This is a nationwide resource for finding volunteer opportunities in your community and creating your own. Listing the organization on this website allows other people to sign up and join you.

It’s hard to imagine a local t-ball league without volunteers. Who would prepare the field, coach the players or call the plays? Children are first in the mind of their parents, and during Month of the Military Child, we hope they become first in the minds of their communities as well.

There are many ways to serve, and many reasons. No matter your age or background, your education or interests, your experience or abilities, Serve.gov has a volunteer opportunity that's right for you.

DoD Spouses Hold Appreciation Luncheon for Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Vivian Blakely, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (NNS) -- Department of Defense family members based at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi held a luncheon in appreciation for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) efforts in Operation Tomodachi April 1.

"The JMSDF have done so much for the people here that I wanted to do one little thing to help them" said Cherada Weaver, an NAF Atsugi spouse. "They're so appreciative of everything. It's just one nice thing I can do for them."

Through Ruthie Clearwater of the American Red Cross office and officials in the Host Nation Relations Office, the spouses residing on NAF Atsugi were able to organize the luncheon.

"The food drives are really to show our support as those left on base for our Sailors, our Marines and JMSDF," said Clearwater.

Lt. Taketsugu Matsumoto, officer in charge (OIC) of Multi-Purpose Helicopter Squadron (HM) 111 expressed his deep gratitude for the luncheon.

"Our situation is very severe but the United States helps us. That is very important. So thank you very much, deeply."

The luncheon was sponsored by the base American Red Cross office and NAF Atsugi's Spouses Association and attended by more than 200 JMSDF personnel.

Navy Exchange System Celebrates Its 65th Anniversary

By Kristine M. Sturkie, Navy Exchange Service Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy Exchange System (NEX) will celebrate its anniversary April 1 commemorating 65 years of working diligently to support Sailors and their families around the world.

"The Navy Exchange System has changed over the years, but the one thing that hasn't changed is our mission to serve our military service members and their families," said Rear Adm. (Sel) Glenn Robillard, Commander, Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). "We are part of the Navy and proudly serve alongside our service members wherever we're needed. We have been an important benefit for the past 65 years and will continue to be for many years to come."

NEXs have come a long way since the days when bumboats sold their wares to Sailors aboard Naval vessels in the 1800s. Back then, Sailors had to depend on these unreliable boats to get their personal items while aboard ship. Unfortunately, goods sold by the bumboats were typically inferior and sold at very high prices. As an alternate to bumboats, many Navy ships operated canteens so that the money spent by the crew members stayed on the boat to improve the quality of the food served by the general mess. The first canteen opened on board USS INDIANA in 1896.

By 1909, the Naval Appropriations Act established the first official resale activity, the Ships Stores and Commissary Stores. The act allowed the Navy to procure and sell merchandise to Navy and Marine Corps officer and enlisted men and to civilian employees at naval stations outside the continental United States and Alaska. In 1925, the Ships Service was created to provide Navy crew members nearly any legal article of merchandise without the profit restrictions placed on the Ships Store. These Ships Services, however, had no foundation in law.

It became clear by 1942 that there was no need, or space, for two ships service type stores aboard Navy ships. A recommendation was made to the Chief of Naval Operations by the Supply Officer, U.S. Atlantic Fleet to merge the two stores into one official ships store operation. The recommendation was accepted and by 1944, the Secretary of the Navy made the establishment of the merged stores mandatory on all ships that had a supply officer and permissive on all Naval activities.

Ships Service Stores ashore also began steps towards centralization in 1945 when a committee was formed to study the resale activities. The recommendation of the committee, headed by Capt. Wheelock H. Bingham, SC, USNR, was that all resale activities be operated like a large chain of retail stores and that a central office be established to oversee the operation of the Navy Resale System. The new central office for the Navy Ships Store Office was established in Brooklyn, N.Y., on April 1, 1946. This office was later renamed NEXCOM and relocated to Virginia Beach, Va., in 1993.

Today, NEXCOM provides oversight for 102 NEX complexes with nearly 300 stores, as well as Navy Lodges, ship's stores and the Uniform Program Management Office. Worldwide, the Navy Exchange System employs over 14,000 associates, 27 percent of whom are military family members.

Wisconsin Guard members vie for Soldier of the Year honors

At 5 a.m. today [April 1], 15 Wisconsin Army National Guard Soldiers began their day with push-ups, sit-ups and a two-mile run - the first three events in a grueling three-day span that will test their abilities in marksmanship, physical fitness, land navigation, Soldier task knowledge and military bearing. Each competitor's composure will also be tested through the weekend's long hours and demanding schedule.

Last year, Pfc. Randy Fendryk of Waukesha, Wis., won the annual Soldier of the Year competition, and Sgt. Cody Brueggen of Oconomowoc, Wis., won the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Fendryk, now an officer candidate, is a member of Battery C, 1st Battalion, 121st Field Artillery in Sussex, Wis., and will serve as a sponsor for a new competitor this year. Brueggen is a member of Detachment 1, 107th Maintenance Company in Sparta, Wis.

Fendryk advanced to the Army National Guard's best warrior Competition last August at the Warrior Training Center, Fort Benning, Ga. Two years ago, Spc. John Wiernasz of Detachment 1, 950th Engineer Company, also represented the Wisconsin Army National Guard at the National Guard's Best Warrior Competition.

The competition is not open to the public, but check out photos from each day of the competition at http://www.flickr.com/photos/wiguardpics/.

Competitors include: Sgt. Steven Dahl (Oconto), Company A, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry (Menomonie); Spc. Wayne Diedrich (Milwaukee), Battery A, 1st Battalion, 121st Field Artillery (Racine); Sgt. John Eckert (St. Francis), Battery A, 1st Battalion, 121st Field Artillery (Racine); Spc. Kimberly Gass (Wausau), 106th Engineer Detachment (Tomah); Spc. Alex Goehring (Dresser); 64th Rear Operations Center Support Detachment (Monroe); Sgt. Jessica Gray (Milwaukee), Detachment 1, Headquarters Company, Brigade Special Troops Battalion (Merrill); Staff Sgt. Charles Hensen (Lake Mills), Troop A, 1st Battalion, 105th Cavalry (Fort Atkinson); Staff Sgt. Jason Kirch (Prairie du Sac), 106th Engineer Detachment (Tomah); Spc. Shelby Reynolds (Stitzer), 229th Engineer Company (Prairie du Chien); Sgt. Jonathan Shufflebotham (Sheboygan); 1157th Transportation Company (Oshkosh); Sgt. Brandon Swanson (St. Croix Falls), Detachment 1, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry (Chippewa Falls); Staff Sgt. Paul Vaillancourt (De Forest), Rear Detachment, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation (Madison); Staff Sgt. Benjamin Van Auken (Sparta), Headquarters Detachment, 1st Battalion, 426th Field Artillery Regiment (Fort McCoy); Staff Sgt. Jon Vandebogert (De Forest), Joint Force Headquarters (Madison); and Spc. Joseph Wong (Milwaukee), Troop A, 1st Battalion, 105th Cavalry (Fort Atkinson).

Brain Injury Awareness Month: Did You Know…

DCoE Strategic Communications

Today isn’t just the opening day for major league baseball, it’s the end of March—the month we’ve spent talking and sharing information about brain injury awareness. Brain injury awareness is an important topic not only for service members and veterans in combat situations, but also for those who play sports or most anyone—did you know that more than 35 percent of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) result from falls? Did you know…

…about these numbers?

■1.7 million estimated people sustain a TBI each year

■275,000 people are hospitalized annually because of a TBI

■30.5% of all injury-related deaths in the United States have TBI as the contributing factor

Click here for more TBI Stats.

…about these resources?

■Mild TBI Pocket Guide: it’s a quick reference, all-encompassing resource on the treatment and management of patients with mild TBI and related symptoms.

■Co-occurring Conditions Toolkit: Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health: this toolkit helps providers assess and manage patients with co-occurring mild TBI and psychological health disorders.

■ICD-9 TBI Coding Guidance Pocket Card: a very cool flashcard that helps providers quickly, accurately document and track diagnosis of a service member who has been treated, or is in the process of being treated, for a TBI.

■Mild TBI Web-Based Case Studies: these online tools include modules with real scenarios to help military and civilian health care professionals better understand mild TBI to include screening, diagnosis and management of symptoms in the non-deployed setting. The latest case study “Assessing the Individual with Persistent Headaches” is available now.

■TBI Family Caregiver Curriculum: because we know people with a TBI aren’t the only ones who live with it, this resource was created especially for families of service members and veterans. The guide provides support, education on TBI and guidance on symptom management.

■DCoE Outreach Center: this resource provides 24/7 customized support to service members, their families and providers who have questions and concerns related to traumatic brain injury or psychological health by phone at 866-966-1020 or email resources@dcoeoutreach.org. The center is operated by trained health resource consultants who work to get people to the right resources.

In case you’ve missed some of the valuable information we’ve shared during the month, don’t worry, you can find most of it on the DCoE Brain Injury Awareness page on the DCoE website. You can also download the resources mentioned above from the ‘For Health Professionals’ section of the DCoE website. Or, if you’d like hard copies, please contact the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center at info@dvbic.org or call 800-870-9244.

Living with a TBI is a challenge, but there are tips, resources and people available to help. Early detection is key to a better recovery, so stay informed about TBI signs and symptoms – this new DCoE information sheet on TBI may help.

Pop quiz!

OK history buffs, just to see if you’ve been paying attention, who patented the first steel helmets worn in World War I? If you don’t know, or perhaps simply forgot, check out DCoE’s “Helmets Throughout History” virtual timeline to learn fun facts about head protection that’s been worn in several different shapes, sizes and styles.

Brain Injury Awareness Month may be over, but DCoE will continue to share current and important information about traumatic brain injury, and we are always interested in your feedback, so please leave us a comment.

Candlelight Vigil Held For Japan Earthquake, Tsunami Victims

By Joe Schmitt, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) Chapel of Hope held a candlelight vigil March 19, for the victims and people who are suffering from the aftermath of the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami that occurred in northern Japan March 11.

"The reason we put this program together was to join the community of many faiths in prayer concerning one event that affects many people," said CFAY Chapel of Hope Chaplain Cmdr. Barry Metzger. "So, our goal is pray for the people of Japan who have been so affected by this tragedy and by these events, for those who are helping in the process in so many ways and also for military and family members who gathered here as part of this community."

The service was conducted in English with a Japanese translation for some of the speeches given by members of the CFAY community. Chapel of Hope organist Tamami Hatakeyama, performed the translations for the event.

"The Japanese words were touching and the English words were touching. Even though they were different language, you could get the heart feeling," said Hatakeyama.

Speaking on behalf of the Buddhist faith, Chapel of Hope Buddhist lay leader Merlyn Hirata, recited writings from the 13th century Japanese monk Nichiren.

Chapel of Hope Chaplain Lt. Sharon Reives performed a song during a candlelight vigil.

"No matter where a person is or what his situation may be, a person who lives based on faith will be able to open up a fresh start. Such a person will be able to clear the way towards a future of unlimited hope from now. A person of faith definitely will be able to adorn his life with happiness for himself and for others by reviving his own spirit and his community," said Hirata while reading a passage to the audience.

The gathered group sang songs that emphasized coming together as a community as example of how the attendees felt towards their Japanese neighbor who were suffering from the disasters. The words to one of the songs said "I need you, you need me, stand with me" and "you are all important to me, I need you to survive."

The event finished with attendees lighting their candles from the candles of "hope" and "healing" while singing the closing song.

"I really appreciate this and I really thank them. I'm really glad America is friendly and supportive to Japan," said Hatakeyama. "That's why I'm so thankful; I really believe that this feeling will reach all the people especially those who are suffering."

The community members were welcomed to stay after the event as long as they wanted to stay. Some of the attendees who stayed behind wrote their feelings and thoughts on a large piece of paper that will be sent with donations to the Sendai, Japan area.

General Officer Announcements

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced today that the President has made the following nominations:

Army Col. Norvell V. Coots has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Coots is currently serving as commander, Walter Reed Army Medical Center/North Atlantic Regional Medical Command, Washington, D.C.

Army Col. Dennis D. Doyle has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Doyle is currently serving as commander, 30th Medical Command, U.S. Army Europe and Seventh Army, Germany.

Army Col. Brian C. Lein has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Lein is currently serving as command surgeon, U.S. Army Forces Command, Fort McPherson, Ga.

CFAY Wraps Up Majority Of Voluntary Military-Assisted Departures

By MC2(SW/AW) John Smolinski, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The last large group of Department of Defense family members departed Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) March 24, as authorized by the voluntary military-assisted departure (VMAD).

The U.S. Department of State authorized the VMAD for eligible family members of U.S. service members and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians assigned to installations on the main island of Honshu, Japan March 16.

The departure was authorized due to a deteriorating situation at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant in northern Honshu after a 9.0 earthquake struck and the tsunami that followed hit the plant March 11.

VMAD should not be confused with the term evacuation, as military and DoD civilians were not directed to leave. Each family had to make the decision based on factors for their unique situation.

"The best thing we have been able to do throughout this whole process is to give people a peace of mind during a very stressful situation," said Ester Franklin, Adolescent Substance Abuse Counseling Service counselor at Yokosuka Middle School, who has volunteered to help with the processing at the James D. Kelly Fleet Recreation Center.

CFAY registered and transported more than 1,300 family members who travelled by government contracted flights from Yokosuka to Seattle and Travis Air Force Base.

Personnel support detachment (PSD) Yokosuka has processed more than 3,100 flight requests through the commercial travel office (CTO) for travel out of Japan since the authorization went into affect.

"We've gone into 24-hour service mode, setting up a three-section rotation so that we may accept requests for government-funded travel around the clock," said Lt. Cmdr. Jed Espiritu, officer-in-charge, PSD Yokosuka. "The commercial travel office here has also put in long hours, coming in on weekends all without a single complaint, something monumentally important in this operation."

CFAY hosts 82 tenant commands that support operating forces throughout the Western Pacific, including 11 high-operational-tempo warships forward-deployed.

"Both PSD military and civilians have been working long hours since Saturday, and that is a testament to this detachment's teamwork and dedication," said Espiritu.

CFAY, PSD Yokosuka and other commands came together to accomplish a unified, customer-focused mission.

"Throughout this operation, I've seen continuous improvement in the way we process, track and ticket flights," said Espiritu. "I've watched customers here being kind and considerate to other customers and our clerks, despite some confusion and anxiety, even dropping off cookies and baked goods. I've seen overwhelming support for Yokosuka dependents from our assigned Chaplain, Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vrieland, the Fleet and Family Support Center, and various other commands that have volunteered to provide comfort and assistance to the family members departing from Japan."

Departed personnel will be provided return travel to Japan when directed by the Under Secretary of Defense.

"CFAY is looking forward to the return of family members who departed voluntarily," said CFAY Command Master Chief Gregory Vidaurri. "Once authorization is provided for the return of our family members, our goal is reunite our Sailors with their families as soon as possible."

Northcom Chief Stresses Disaster Preparedness

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 31, 2011 – The United States must do more to prepare for natural disasters on the scale of the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan, and more cooperation is necessary to combat transnational criminal organizations, the commander of U.S. Northern Command said here yesterday.

In testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, Navy Adm. James A. Winnefeld stressed his command’s role in preparing for manmade or natural disasters.

The magnitude 9.0 earthquake off the coast of northern Japan caused a tsunami that inundated many areas of the country. The quake also triggered failures in the Dai-Ichi nuclear power plant.

“The tragic events in Japan over the last several weeks highlight the importance of being prepared to respond to disasters, including those providing little or no notice, such as earthquakes, and those involving accidental or intentional release of harmful substances, as in Japan's case, the release of radionuclides,” Winnefeld said.

Northcom, which has responsibility for the United States, Canada and Mexico, is a key player in America’s response to natural or manmade disasters. Generally, the command works in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and stands ready to provide capabilities needed in the event of an emergency.

“Time is our enemy in these disasters and we search every day for ways to become more agile to meet the needs of our partners,” the admiral said.

The command, based in Colorado Springs, Colo., works with interagency partners to ensure all have the same playbook, Winnefeld said. In the last year, he added, he has been working to achieve unity of command and control over state and federal military forces that might respond together in the wake of a disaster.

“I can also report that [Northern Command’s] relationship with the National Guard, who is such a capable partner and on whom I rely so much for my mission accomplishment in several key areas, is superb,” he said.

The command is responsible for defending the United States against terrorism and transnational criminal organizations. Winnefeld also serves as the commander of the joint U.S.-Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Northcom works closely with U.S. Southern Command to counter groups that deal in drugs, people, weapons and money, the admiral said. In Mexico alone, he told the House panel, these criminal groups have killed more than 35,000 people since December 2006.

“We work with law enforcement agencies within the United States and in conjunction with U.S. Southern Command in support of the efforts of our partner nations in the hemisphere,” he said.

President Barack Obama and Mexican President Felipe Calderon have called the relationship a true partnership. The United States has a responsibility to reduce drug consumption and the illicit flow of arms and money to Mexico, and Mexican authorities have the responsibility to interdict drugs going north and to strengthen the rule of law so that criminals are put and kept in jail, Winnefeld said.

“The Mexican government has displayed exemplary moral, physical and political courage in undertaking this important struggle, … because they know this is about the future of Mexico, and I take my hat off to them for this,” the admiral said. “The Mexican military has been asked by its civilian leadership to join with Mexican law enforcement agencies to support this struggle in the right way, respectful of Mexico’s democratic ideals and the nation’s commitment to the rule of law.”

The Mexican military is working to counter a sophisticated, unconventional threat by integrating intelligence and operations, Winnefeld said. The Mexican army and navy are working together and with interagency partners.

“We know this is hard, because we’ve been down the same road, and in some ways, we’re still on the same road,” he said. “So I tell my capable Mexican partners that we don’t know it all, we’ve made our own mistakes along the way, and we seek the kind of engagement that helps them benefit from our experience.”

Regardless of the desire to help, the admiral stressed, any aid the U.S. military may offer is only provided at the request of Mexican officials.

“We have much to offer, but Mexico is always, always in the lead in Mexico,” he said. “The Mexican government has a strategy. They’ve defined with us a substantive framework to guide our cooperation and they’ve invited us to work with them to support their efforts. But again, they’re always in the lead in their country.”

MCPON Testifies before Congress on Quality of Life

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Abraham Essenmacher, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West and other senior enlisted leaders testified before the House Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies March 30.

MCPON Rick D. West, along with the other top enlisted leaders from the Marines, Army and Air Force, discussed quality of life, family readiness, recruiting and retention, reserve force, and veteran affairs issues.

"In my travels this past year I have enjoyed the visits I've had with Sailors who defend America every day. In these visits I have taken special note of the quality of life in which they live and serve," said West. "As you know, quality of work and quality of life programs for our Sailors, their families and our Navy civilians is directly tied to military readiness."

Navy's Homeport Ashore program, bachelor and Navy family housing, and Continuum of Care were other important issues that were brought up to the congressional subcommittee.

West said that as the environment in which Sailors and their families' lives change, along with global requirements and world events, new and better ways to support our Navy families must be continuously explored.

West also discussed the integral part deployments play in Navy life. The Navy has been deploying forces since its formation during times of both peace and conflict, but it is important not to underestimate or take for granted the incredible strain that a long deployment imposes on Sailors and their families.

Multiple deployments, frequent relocations and the stresses associated with being part of a military family all impact the overall readiness of the unit, the readiness of the individual Sailor and the readiness of their family.

"The strain on our Sailors and their families is greater than ever, but our Sailors recognize the significance of their mission."

West said that keeping Navy families informed about resources available to them to mitigate the strain of deployment and provide support is instrumental to their peace of mind while waiting for their Sailors to return from a year-long assignment in the Middle East or a six-month deployment safeguarding our seas.

West discussed the Navy's current operations and told the committee that approximately 55 percent of the Navy's force is underway; and more than 14,000 Sailors are on the ground and more than 11,000 are at sea in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility; and more than 18,000 personnel along with 22 ships and 140 aircraft have participated in Operation Tomodachi providing relief and delivering humanitarian assistance to the people of Japan.

"Our Navy, America's Navy has no boundaries and we are a Global Force for Good," said West. "Our Navy team will accomplish any mission or task that we ask of them and they do this knowing their families will be supported and cared for when they go over the horizon in harm's way."

The Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy periodically testifies before Congress along with the senior enlisted leaders of the other services. This was his fourth appearance before the congressional committee.

Family Matters Blog: Military Children Can Attend Free Camp

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 31, 2011 – Military parents seeking a fun -- and free -- summer camp option for their children should check out the National Military Family Association’s Operation Purple Summer Camp program.

The association developed the camps to support military children ages 7 to 17 dealing with the stressors of war, according to an association news release. Now in its eighth year, the program will host more than 3,500 children during 40 weeks of camp in 25 states, as well as one overseas location this summer.

People can apply for a camp through April 29 at midnight EDT. The camps are open to children of all services, whether active duty, National Guard or Reserve. However, priority will be given to military children with a parent deployed or deploying any time between September 2010 and December 2011 who have not attended an Operation Purple camp in the past.

For more information about the program, or camp locations and dates, visit the association’s website.

Guam Service Members Celebrate 118th Birthday of Chiefs

By By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Corey Hensley

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Chief petty officers from various commands stationed on Guam gathered to celebrate the 118th birthday of the chief on U.S. Naval Base Guam March 28-April 1.

The events kicked off Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Week with observing morning colors in front of the Naval Base Guam Head Quarters. The week's festivities included a community service project at Ordot–Chalan Pago Elementary School and a 5K fundraiser. The events concluded with a cake cutting ceremony at Molly McGee's Irish Pub April 1, the official date of the 118th birthday of CPOs in the Navy.

Joint Region Marianas Command Master Chief Paul Kingsbury said the purpose of CPO Week was to give chiefs the chance to engage one another and demonstrate that their role in the Navy has always been one of importance.

"Think of all the people and all the leadership that a Sailor is going to be exposed to," Kingsbury said. "The chief petty officer is one that will connect the most. They are standard bearers and keepers of heritage and tradition."

For a long time before the existence of chiefs, superiority among petty officers on a ship would be decided by the commanding officer (CO). These appointed positions were mostly temporary but the CO had the option to recommend these "chief" petty officers to a more permanent charge. The official pay grade of CPO was not established until April 1, 1893.

Kingsbury said chiefs need to be the technical experts of their rate while also training and developing others, including junior officers.

"One of our traditional duties is training the newly appointed division officer as well," Kingsbury said. "All chiefs should be able to talk to all Sailors about fundamental Navy programs and general life guidance."

Many first class petty officers were shifted to the chief level when the rank was created. As a result, there was no "first" CPO. For many years after COs would still occasionally promote petty officers to acting positions to fill needed jobs on their ships.

On June 1, 1958, the pay grades of E 8 and E 9 were created, giving birth to senior chiefs and master chiefs. In August of that same year, service wide examinations were held to decide what chiefs were the best qualified to take on these new "super chief" positions. The first set of promotions happened Nov. 16, 1958.

Realignments Add to Busy Summer Moving Season

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 30, 2011 – With a busier-than-usual military moving season about to kick into high gear, officials are asking service members to book their moving dates early and to keep flexibility in mind when doing so.

The military moved more than 230,000 shipments last summer alone, and this year officials are expecting even more due to the base realignment and closure process, said John Johnson, chief of the personal property branch for the Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command. The command is the lead agent for the Defense Department’s Personal Property Program.

Johnson said he’s expecting an additional 10,000 moves this summer due to base realignments and closures. Though that’s just a 3 percent increase to the projected number of summertime moves, it’s an extra 3 percent at an already challenging time of year, he noted.

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is commonly known to military-savvy people as “PCS season,” which refers to permanent-change-of-station moves. With school out for the summer, or about to be, many parents view that stretch of time as the least disruptive for a family move, Johnson explained, and set their sights on moving over Memorial Day or Fourth of July weekends to take advantage of the extra days off.

But this moving cluster can create a backlog for officials, Johnson said. On average, the military moves about 600,000 shipments a year, and more than a third of those moves take place over the summer.

“The biggest challenge is expectation management,” he added. “Moving in the summer season is already difficult, and most people are set on moving on holiday weekends. It’s always a challenge when volume exceeds capacity. We need to ensure we have enough trucks and crews to move people.”

Keeping the busy upcoming season in mind, officials began a review of the moving process in August, Johnson said. They focused much of their effort on working the kinks out of the Defense Personal Property System, a computerized moving management system for military members and Defense Department civilians. Last summer marked the first time the majority of household shipments were moved through that system, he added.

While the new system proved successful, users ran into a few stumbling blocks along the way, Johnson said, citing the electronic claims process as an example.

Previously, the “submit” button for the electronic claims form was located only at the top of the page. People would fill out the form, and then fail to realize they had to scroll back up to submit the claim, he said. And by the time they realized their oversight, they had missed the 75-day filing deadline.

“Some folks got upset -– rightfully so,” Johnson said. “We’re making a big effort to fix this and some other issues.”

Johnson said a system redesign is in the works, but in the meantime, he recommends that people watch the video posted on http://www.move.mil, which explains in detail how to navigate the online claim system.

Officials also have directed training efforts at moving experts, Johnson said, including the introduction of a webinar series that covers the storage and transit process for personal property shipment offices and carriers.

Among efforts to increase capacity, officials now allow carriers to use portable movement storage containers similar to those used for commercial shipments, Johnson said. In the past, he explained, the military required household goods to be moved in “loose loaded” or in wooden crates with specific dimensions. However, in the commercial sector, carriers use multiple types of containers.

“We’re now allowing carriers to use what containers they normally use to move military members,” he said. By doing so, he added, officials hope to increase the capacity of carriers qualified to conduct military moves.

These improvements will help, Johnson said, but the sheer number of people moving over the summer calls for some extra preplanning measures. People need to book moves early, particularly if they want to lock down a holiday weekend. And, above all, he said, they should remain flexible on dates.

When people are notified of a move, Johnson said, the first stop should be their local personal property shipment office, and then the Move.Mil website. Military OneSource also offers families a host of online moving resources, including “Plan My Move,” which features a moving calendar and travel and arrival checklists, and “Military Installations,” which links families to information about their new base and the local community.

Rodeo, Navy Team Up For a Special Message

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ian Lundy, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

AUSTIN, Texas (NNS) -- Austin Navy Week 2011 and Rodeo Austin provided the opportunity and venue March 23, for a Sailor to see his family while serving his country in Afghanistan.

Between the saddle bronc and bull riding portions of the rodeo, the master of ceremonies (MC) announced to the crowd that in just a few moments Cmdr. Clay Green—a local Austin sailor deployed to Afghanistan—would be talking to his family and everyone else at the Luedecke Arena, via the Defense Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS).

After the applause died down Green's image appeared on the jumbo-screen high above the arena floor.

"I'd like to take the opportunity to say hello to my family," said Green. "My beautiful wife Michelle, I know you're sacrificing as much as I am, I just appreciate everything you're doing."

Green had a lot to say to everyone at the arena, telling them how proud he was to serve with his fellow service members, that he believes in the mission and that the military is making a difference in Afghanistan.

He had additional messages for his children.

"I want to say hi to my kids. I love you guys, and I am extremely proud of you. To everybody out there in Austin Texas, 'Hook 'em Horns.'"

After the emotional cheers tapered off in the arena, the MC thanked Green for all he was doing.

Michelle Green and her family were very excited and thankful to the Navy for providing this unique chance to speak with Green.

"We haven't seen him since Thanksgiving and it was a really good feeling to see him," said Michelle. "I was excited to see him. Often times you feel isolated in dealing with the separation, it felt good to know so many people support him."

His deployment wraps up at the end of the year and he will return to Austin. It will be 13 months since he and his family were last together.

For more information about Navy Weeks and how "A Global Force for Good" transforms into a local force for good, log onto www.navyweek.org.

Today in the Department of Defense, Thursday, March 31, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen testify at a hearing of the House Armed Services Committee on operations in Libya at 9:00 a.m. EDT in room 2118, Rayburn House Office Building.

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen testify at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee on operations in Libya at 2:15 p.m. EDT in room SD-G50, Dirksen Senate Office Building.

Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn has no public or media events on his schedule.

Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh and Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. George W. Casey

testify at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee on the Department of the Army in review of the defense authorization request for fiscal 2012 and the future years defense program at 9:30 a.m. EDT in room SD-G50, Dirksen Senate Office Building.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley and Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz testify at a hearing of the House Appropriations Committee on the fiscal 2012 defense appropriations request at 10 a.m. EDT in room H-140, Capitol.

Commander, U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander - Europe, Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis and Rear Adm. William Brown, director of logistics, U.S. European Command, testify at a budget oversight hearing of the House Appropriations Committee on the fiscal 2012 budget at 10:00 a.m. EDT in room HT-2, Capitol.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen delivers remarks at 5:30 p.m. EDT at the annual Rostov Lecture on International Affairs at the Johns Hopkins Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies in the Kenney Auditorium,

1740 Mass Ave, Washington, D.C.

  Media interested in attending should contact JCS PA at 703-697-4272.

This Day in Naval History - March 30

From the Navy News Service

1944 - Torpedo squadrons from carriers are used for the first time to drop aerial mines - Palau Harbor in the South Pacific.

1972 - The Easter Offensive began in Vietnam.

1942 - The Pacific theater is divided into two zones to clarify command relations. Adm. Chester W. Nimitz commands the Pacific Ocean Area and Gen. Douglas MacArthur is over the Southwest Pacific Area.

Misawa Air Base Reopens Valued Services

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devon Dow, Naval Air Facility Misawa Public Affairs

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (NNS) -- Even as Misawa Air Base personnel are fully engaged with recovering from the 9.0-magnitude earthquake that rocked most of Japan, the installation continues to reopen important base services, March 29.

The installation's post office, various entertainment and recreational services along with food locations are one again meeting the needs of service and family members, thus increasing morale and bringing much-needed stability to Misawa.

Today was the first day the Richard Bong Theatre opened its doors since the recent earthquake. Capt. Justin Kindle, general surgery physician assistant with the 35th Medical Group, said that he and his family are among many on base who are happy that the theatre is open for business.

"This gives us good a opportunity to spend some time together, and enjoy some much needed entertainment as a family," said Kindle. "It is nice to see things getting back to normal on the facility."

Potter Fitness Center has opened its weight room and basketball courts which are filled with Sailors and Airmen happy to once again have an indoor venue in which to work out.

"I know a lot of guys who have been working long hours with no days off since the earthquake, it is great to get some time off and work out," said Aviation Aerographer's Mate 1st Class Johnny Anderson, a Kailua, Hawaii native assigned to Naval Oceanography Anti-Submarine Detachment at Commander Task Force 72. "The gym is a great way to relieve stress after a long day. Right now, many people are taking advantage of it being opened again."

Outdoor recreation, which leases outdoor equipment, has also reopened its doors, along with the Weasel's Den, a popular indoor play area for children and parents.

Inside this Weasel's Den, which is a free facility, service and family members can bring their children to enjoy a playground with matted floors, a rock climbing wall, miniature golf course, arcade games, and an indoor track and batting cages.

Harry Bullock, a DoD civilian from Rocky Mount, N.C. said he is happy the Weasel's Den is open so his daughter could get some needed time outside of the house.

"After the shock of the earthquake, reopening this facility is great for the children," said Bullock. "Children have a great time here and it's a place for them to relax, have fun and interact with other children."