Obama Taps Dempsey, Winnefeld as Chairman, Vice Chairman

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 30, 2011 – President Barack Obama announced his choices as chairman and vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during a Rose Garden ceremony today.

Obama intends to nominate Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey as chairman and Navy Adm. James A. “Sandy” Winnefeld Jr., as vice chairman. Dempsey currently is the Army chief of staff and Winnefeld is the commander of U.S. Northern Command.

Dempsey will replace Navy Adm. Mike Mullen when his term ends Sept. 30, and Winnefeld will replace Marine Gen. James “Hoss” Cartwright when his term ends in July.

The president intends to nominate Gen. Raymond T. Odierno to succeed Dempsey at the Army post.

The Senate must approve the nominations and the president called on the body to act expeditiously so the military transition will be “seamless.”

“The men and women of our armed forces are the best our nation has to offer,” Obama said during the ceremony. “They deserve nothing but the absolute best in return – that includes leaders who will guide them, support their families with wisdom and strength and compassion.”

The president said the men he has chosen will make an extraordinary team at the Pentagon. “Between them, they bring deep experience in virtually every domain – land, air, space, sea, cyber,” he said. “Both of them have the respect and the trust of our troops on the frontlines, our friends in Congress, and allies and partners abroad. And both of them have my full confidence.”

The president called Dempsey one of America’s most respected and combat-tested officers. “In Iraq, he led our soldiers against a brutal insurgency,” the president said. “Having trained the Iraqi forces, he knows that nations must ultimately take responsibility for their own security. Having served as acting commander of Central Command, he knows that in Iraq and Afghanistan security gains and political progress must go hand in hand.”

Dempsey has a reputation of pushing his forces to change and adapt and the president said he expects that, as chairman, Dempsey will do the same for all forces, “to be ready for the missions of today and tomorrow.”

Winnefeld led the USS Enterprise carrier battle group in some of the first strikes against al-Qaida in 2001. “Having served as a NATO commander, Sandy is well-known to our allies,” Obama said. “Having served on the Joint Staff, he is known and trusted here at the White House. Most recently as the head of Northern Command, Sandy has been responsible for the defense of our homeland and support to states and communities in times of crisis, such as the recent tornadoes and the floods along the Mississippi.”

Obama called Odierno one of the Army’s most accomplished soldiers. Currently serving as the commander of U.S. Joint Forces Command, Odierno served three defining tours in Iraq, the president said. They included commanding the troops that captured Saddam Hussein, partnering with Army Gen. David H. Petraeus to help bring down the violence, and then transferring responsibility to Iraqi forces, allowing the United States to redeploy more than 100,000 troops and end the combat mission in the country.

“After years on the frontlines, Ray understands what the Army must do: to prevail in today’s wars, to prepare for the future, and to preserve the readiness of the soldiers and families who are the strength of America’s families,” Obama said.

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates gave an enthusiastic endorsement of the three nominees. “General Dempsey, Admiral Winnefeld and General Odierno have all excelled in key command and staff roles within their services and in the joint arena,” the secretary said in a prepared statement.

“They possess the right mix of intellectual heft, moral courage and strategic vision required to provide sound and candid advice to the president and his national security team,” Gates continued. “Above all, they are proven leaders of men and women in combat operations over the past decade, and are uniquely qualified to guide and shape our military institutions through the challenging times ahead.”

Obama said he’s been grateful for the advice and leadership of the current chairman and vice chairman. “Like President Bush before me, I’ve deeply valued Mike’s professional steadiness and his personal integrity,” he said. “On his watch, our military forces have excelled across the whole spectrum of missions, from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan to relief efforts after the Haiti earthquake.”

Mullen has helped revitalize NATO, helped re-set relations with Russia, and has helped steer important relationships with China and Pakistan, the president said. “I believe that history will also record Mike Mullen as the chairman who said what he believed was right and declared that no one in uniform should ever have to sacrifice their integrity to serve their country,” Obama said, referring to Mullen’s public support for supporting repeal of the law that prevented gays from serving openly in the military.

Obama called Cartwright a rare combination of technical expert and strategic thinker. The general has lead U.S. thinking on cyber, space and nuclear issues. “I’ll always be personally grateful to Hoss for his friendship and partnership,” the president said. “And as he concludes four decades of service in the Marine Corps that he loves, he can do so knowing that our nation is more secure, and our military is stronger, because of his remarkable career.”

Gates echoed Obama’s testimonials of the two men. “I have enjoyed working with Admiral Mullen and General Cartwright and benefited greatly from their wise counsel,” he said. “All Americans owe these two fine officers and their families a debt of gratitude, and I look forward to paying fuller tribute to their accomplishments at the appropriate time.”

Sailors and Marines Invade Eisenhower Park from the Skies

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Donisha Burns, Fleet Week New York Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- The sea services kicked off Memorial Day weekend in Nassau County by hosting a joint air and ground demonstration May 28, at Eisenhower Park, East Meadows, N.Y.

This successful event was just part of many of the exciting activities taking place as part of Fleet Week New York 2011, a celebration of the sea services that has been a tradition in the city since 1984. This demonstration allowed Sailors and Marines to display how tactics and technology has evolved. In return, the local community shook hands, took pictures and even received a few autographs from those in uniform.

"I had a great time, me and my friend even got soldiers to sign our shirt," said eight-year old, John Ranize.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit 12 of Virginia Beach, Va., conducted a rappel demonstration before landing and allowing tours and photo opportunities of their MH-60S Knight Hawk helicopter.

"This is perfect. I didn't expect we would be able to get on the helicopter or shake hands with the service members," said Ashish Chatur.

Following the Navy's EOD team, Marines from various units flew in a pair of AH-1W Cobras and MV-22B Ospreys. After landing the Marines conducted basic offloading tactics and showed spectators the proper wear of body armor and how to hold and operate some of the weapons systems.

Michael Counadis, a New Jersey native who usually spends his Memorial Day weekend in South Jersey watching the Air Show changed his plans this year. "This is my first time coming out, I'll rate it a 10, besides my nephew, Pvt. Milton is a part of the celebration this time," said Counadis.

After 24 years, Fleet week continues to be an unparalleled opportunity for Sea Service members and the citizens of New York and surrounding tri-state area to meet and share experiences.

Hard Rock Cafe Welcomes Fleet Week to NYC

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Richard M. Wolff, Fleet Week New York Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Morale, Welfare and Recreation hosted a Fleet Week New York City 2011 kick-off party at the Hard Rock Cafe May 25 with free food and a concert by the Orange County Choppers Band for Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen.

The Hard Rock kick-off happens every year and was an exciting experience for many service members, especially those who have never been to New York City. Operations Specialist Third Class (SW) Eren Heim, a Georgia native, was very excited when she heard that members from OCC were part of the kick-off party. "I've been watching their show for years. I think it is amazing, especially to see them here supporting our military."

For Heim, this is her first visit to New York City and one she will never forget. "I didn't expect so many people to support the military like this, everyone wants to take our picture, it's like we're celebrities too."

Orange County Choppers have a hit TV show that focuses on making stunning, unique motorcycles in the "chopper" style. They use their fame to support a number of good causes and are huge advocates for our American fighting men and women. "We support the military all the time, any way we can," said Mike Ammiradi of OCC. "What you guys do for us is the greatest thing in the world."

"I like what OCC does with charities, donating bikes and helping children," said Cryptologic Technician-Technical Second Class Larry Jamison, a Sailor off of the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). This was also Jamison's first time to New York City, "It's pretty cool, I like it. So far everybody's been really friendly and it's been a good experience. It's a lot bigger than I anticipated."

For many aboard USS Iwo Jima, this is their second year in a row participating in Fleet Week New York.

Cryptologic Technician-Collection Second Class (SW) Zachariah Adkins plans to see some of the sites he didn't have time to see last year. "I plan to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Natural History and the Bronx Zoo, and it's great that these places are free for the Sailors to visit."

Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services nearly every year since 1984. It is an unparalleled opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding Tri-State area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, first-hand, the latest capabilities of today's maritime services.

In addition to public visitation of participating ships, there will be a number of exhibits showing off the technology of the maritime services and the skilled expertise of our service members.

Dempsey Career Reflects Adaptability, Creativity

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 30, 2011 – The man President Barack Obama has chosen to be the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has 37 years of experience and a reputation as a creative thinker.

If confirmed by the Senate, Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, 59, will shift from serving as the Army chief of staff to chairman when Navy Adm. Mike Mullen steps down at the end of September. Dempsey has served as Army chief since April.

As a brigadier general, Dempsey commanded the 1st Armored Division when it arrived in Baghdad in 2003 at the start of the Iraq War. What was expected to be a short deployment was extended when in April 2004, forces loyal to Shi’a cleric Muqtada al Sadr launched an insurrection against multinational forces and the nascent Iraqi government. The 1st Armored, which was loading up to return to Germany, was extended for 90 days.

Dempsey’s performance during that hot spell earned kudos from retired Army Gen. Barry McCaffrey, who said in an Army Times interview that Dempsey “may be the best combat division commander of the war over the last decade.”

Following his division command, Dempsey became commander of Multinational Security Transition Command—Iraq, helping put in place the Iraqi army and police. He followed that with a stint as the deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, stepping up as acting commander when Navy Adm. William Fallon resigned, and later served as commander of the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command.

Dempsey was not just a caretaker commander. “While serving as acting Centcom commander, General Dempsey reorganized the headquarters, published new theater strategy and campaign plans, all the while managing the rotations and deployments of tens of thousands of troops throughout his command’s [area of responsibility],” Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said in April during Dempsey’s installation as the Army chief of staff.

Dempsey was commissioned as an Armor officer following graduation from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., in 1974. He will be the first chairman who is not a Vietnam War veteran since Army Gen. Lyman Lemnitzer in 1962.

Dempsey spent much of his career in Germany, training in AirLand Battle doctrine to stop a possible Soviet invasion at the Fulda Gap. Yet he also served as the training adviser for the Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program.

Dempsey takes change in stride. In a round table discussion with reporters after becoming Army chief of staff, the general said he needs soldiers to see that change is not something to fear.

“All this is routine and historical,” he said. “But to them it’s new.

“I’m 59 years old, and I’ve heard this four times in my career,” Dempsey continued, adding that he plans to issue a document that articulates some of that and calms the nerves of the force.

“The Army has been around for 235 years, and though it doesn’t always look the same from decade to decade, it always provides the things the nation needs when it needs it,” he continued. “I personally think the Army ought to think of itself as an organization that will adapt about every five to seven years. It’s not just about new equipment, but new organizations and structures.”

The younger generation embraces adaptation and change better than older generations, he said, “and I’m going to test that theory.”

In addition to a bachelor’s degree from West Point, the general also earned a master’s degree from Duke University in North Carolina.

Navy Names Next Aircraft Carrier USS John F. Kennedy

From Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

BOSTON (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced today the next Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier will be named the USS John F. Kennedy.

The selection John F. Kennedy, designated CVN 79, honors the 35th President of the United States and pays tribute to his service in the Navy, in the government, and to the nation.

"President John F. Kennedy exemplified the meaning of service, not just to country, but service to all humanity," said Mabus. "I am honored to have the opportunity to name the next aircraft carrier after this great Sailor and inspirational leader, and to keep the rich tradition and history of USS John F. Kennedy sailing in the U.S. Fleet."

Born in Brookline, Mass., May 29, 1917, Kennedy graduated from Harvard in 1940, and entered the Navy in October 1941.

During World War II, Kennedy took command of PT 109 at Tulagi Island in the Solomons, with a mission to intercept Japanese ships attempting to resupply their barges in New Georgia. In the early morning hours of Aug. 2, 1943, Kennedy's ship was inadvertently struck by an enemy ship and split in half. During the course of the next six days, Kennedy led his crew members to safety and an eventual rescue. Kennedy received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for the rescue of his crew and a Purple Heart for injuries he sustained when his ship was struck.

After his military service, Kennedy became a congressman representing the Boston area, he was elected to the Senate in 1953, and in 1961 became the youngest person to be elected president.

One previous ship, USS John F. Kennedy, CV 67, was named in his honor and was decommissioned in 2007, after nearly 40 years of distinguished service, including Operation Desert Storm.

The USS John F. Kennedy and other Ford-class carriers will be the premier forward asset for crisis response and humanitarian relief, and early decisive striking power in a major combat operation. The aircraft carrier and the carrier strike group will provide forward presence, rapid response, endurance on station, and multi-mission capability throughout its 50-year service life.

The USS John F. Kennedy will provide improved warfighting capability, quality of life improvements for Sailors and reduced acquisition and life cycle costs. The ship will be constructed at Newport News Shipbuilding, Va., a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Additional information about aircraft carriers is available on line at http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=200&ct=4.

Media may direct queries to Lt. Cmdr. Tamara Lawrence at 571-289-7139.

Iwo Jima Stays Fit During Fleet Week

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Travis J. Kuykendall, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Sailors onboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) participated in physical training (PT) sessions on the flight deck during Fleet Week, May 27.

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA) Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), along with Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) Navy Fitness provided Iwo Jima sailors an opportunity to group PT.

"We really wanted to highlight 'Navy Fitness' because fitness is a requirement of your job," said Chad Quinn, Commander Navy Installations Command Navy Fitness Program Manager. "If you can't stay within the standards and be functionally operable you can't keep your job, so it's very important."

CNIC Navy Fitness "Fit Bosses" instructed the Sailors on exercises and movements from the Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling Series (NOFFS). NOFFS is a Navy performance training resource which combines both performance and preventative injury strategies.

"The number one reason for missed days at work is because of injuries, not illness or disease. It's because people are getting hurt," said Quinn. "We use the NOFFS program because it focuses on a functioning movement and not just a jumping jack or a standard push up. It looks at what you're going to do in your everyday environment."

Approximately 60 Sailors attended one of the two, one-hour long sessions offered in the morning passing up the chance to get an early start going out on liberty. "I'm glad I took advantage of a great opportunity to receive training on practical exercises I had never seen before," said Cryptologic Technician Technical 1st Class (SW/AW) Jacob Harper. "After being in the Navy for 10 years, you see the same workouts over and over but this was something new and refreshing."

Simultaneously news media was broadcasting live and public tours were being offered, so they were able to witness the PT sessions and see what Navy fitness is all about.

"It was for the Sailors, showing them some of the different movements, but it also brought face to the general public and media the things Sailors have to go through to maintain and make a warship operable," said Quinn. "This is a part of their job, their lives, and it affects everything that they do."

Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participating in the 24th Fleet Week New York, taking place May 25 through June 1. Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see first-hand, the capabilities of today's maritime services.

Medical Service Corps Director Visits Naval Hospital Bremerton

By Douglas H Stutz, NHB PAO

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Eleanor Valentin, Commander, Navy Medicine Support Command and Director, Navy Medical Service Corps visited Naval Hospital Bremerton and met with command leadership and staff during a whirlwind meet-and-greet tour on May 27.

"Everyone I have met is very positive. That's a direct reflection of the leadership," said Valentin, a Seattle, Wash. native, who is the first female director of Navy's Medical Service Corps (MSC) and 2010 recipient of the National Women of Color Technologist of the Year Award.

"NHB is very famous to us and is often held up as a model to emulate in Navy Medicine and if the surgeon general was here he would say the same," said Valentin, addressing the command after Morning Colors.

"This comes from my heart; you have all answered the call, and that call is greater than yourself. I am so proud of all of you. You serve with honor, courage, commitment, transparency and integrity. Thank you for your service."

The visit gave Rear Adm. Valentin the opportunity to hold an Admiral's Call to address NHB's approximately 50 Medical Service Corps officers. Topics touched upon included promotions, records, career advancement and service to the Navy, Navy Medicine, and the country.

"MSC officers ask what they need to do to be competitive for promotion," said Valentin. "Do I need to deploy? Do I need to be certified in my specialty field? Do I need joint military education? Those three are not requirements for promotion, but I can tell you that those who do get promoted do have them. Those qualifications indicate concern and care for our profession and show competitiveness in improving."

Valentin also pointed out that the MSC is truly a diverse corps by using an operational officer as an example. An MSC officer needs to be able to handle a number of roles if assigned to an expeditionary medical platform. "They need to know how to set up the operational center," she said. "They need to know how to track our people, how to track our patients, how to arrange supplies and logistics and how to establish communications. Whether it's just-in-time training or timely instruction, our MSC officers will have the qualifications needed for the job."

The Medical Service Corps is comprised of three basic specialties covering 31 sub-specialties. The Clinical Care specialties include Audiology, Clinical Psychology, Dietetics/Food Management, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, Podiatry, and Social Work. The Health Care Science specialty field encompasses Aerospace Experimental Psychology, Aerospace Physiology, Biochemistry, Entomology, Environmental Health, Industrial Hygiene, Medical Technology, Microbiology, Physiology, Radiation Health, and Research Psychology. Health Care Administration specialties consists of Education and Training Management, Financial Management, Fleet Marine Force, General Health Care Administration, Health Care Facilities Planning, Information Management, Manpower Systems Analysis, Medical Logistics Management, Operations Research, Patient Administration, and Plans, Operations and Medical Intelligence.

Face of Defense: War Veteran Hangs Up Wings at Age 90

By U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Benjamin Wiseman

23rd Wing Public Affairs

VALDOSTA, Ga. , May 29, 2011 – More than 70 years of flying experience came to a close after one last flight in a Piper Saratoga aircraft in Valdosta, Ga.

While retired Air Force Col. Clarence Parker has been a pilot for the majority of his life, the now 90-year-old has decided to hang up his wings and start a new chapter in his life with one last flight on May 20, 2011.

"I have decided that seven decades of flying was a great run," Parker said. "I wanted to stop on my own terms, and not when the doctors or my health dictated it."

Parker started his aviation career when he was just 20 years old. In 1940, he wanted to join the U.S. Army Air Corps, but his application was put on hold. Then he decided to earn his private pilot's license as a civilian instead.

A year later, Parker was called to action.

"I had just landed from a flight when someone ran up and told me the Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor," he recalled. "Within 48 hours of the attack, I was contacted by the U.S. Army Air Corps and instructed to go to San Antonio."

From that day forward, Colonel Parker's career took many twists and turns. He flew more than 35 different aircraft, ranging from the P-40 Warhawk to the B-52 Stratofortress. He has flown in three different wars and several combat missions: World War II, the Berlin Airlift, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Dorothy Lee Parker, the colonel's wife, remembers many of the bases they both visited during their 69 years of marriage.

"We have been all over the world," she said. "When you're married to a pilot, you always seem to come second because the aircraft and the mission are always first. Despite that, I always enjoy traveling with him, and he's going to miss flying like hell."

He served his country from 1942 until 1971, ending his career as the wing commander at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. Even after the colonel retired, he continued to fly as a civilian for 30 more years.

"He has been flying the entire time we have been married," Dorothy said with laughter. "After nearly 70 years of marriage, I finally get to be his main focus."

Parker shared a few words of advice before leaving the flying to the pilots of later generations.

"Aviation is not only a challenge but an opportunity for young people," he said. "I encourage all pilots to approach flying with vigor and determination, and enjoy the rewards of your hard work."

Once Parker parts ways with flying, he said he and and his wife plan to continue visiting family as well as traveling around the U.S. and Europe.

USO Sponsors Fleet Week "Reverse Care Package" Event Aboard Iwo Jima

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Travis J. Kuykendall, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines onboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) participated in a care package event during fleet week on the flight deck May 26.

Service members worked together with United Service Organizations (USO) volunteers to make care packages and distribute them to other ships participating in fleet week. The event is referred to as "Fleet Week Reverse Care Package Party."

The special care package event was sponsored by USO, Pepsi Corporation, Gatorade and the NFL, who work hand-in-hand to provide care packages to service members all over the world.

"It was a chance to give back to fellow shipmates and other service members," said Yeoman Seaman Derrick Miles. "I wanted them to be rewarded because I know what they go through and they deserve it."

"Pepsi Co. has a long standing relationship with USO," said Greg Ordway, Pepsi Co. director of brand development, "and this year in particular we felt the need to support our sea services and show our appreciation."

"This event brought me up close and personal with USO and I saw the degree to which they help us out," said Miles. "We really do need them. Sometimes we're overseas and they can make the difference."

More than 3,000 care packages were filled with drink mix packets, chips, gum, towels, water bottles and other snacks to be handed out to service members. "We got a lot of work done and helped make a lot of packages" said Miles. "It was a great opportunity to network and help our shipmates."

While some service members worked to make the care packages, others enjoyed a barbeque with music & entertainment, interactive games, raffle giveaways, and the chance to make their own care packages.

Today in the Department of Defense, Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates is traveling.

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

Face of Defense: Shooting Survivor Inspires Others

By Micah Garbarino

72nd Air Base Wing

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., May 27, 2011 – "Control your breathing, lie still, play dead."

During the most devastating moment of her life, Air Force Staff Sgt. Deondra Parks couldn't believe her brain was behaving so rationally.

"So this is what a massacre is like?" she asked herself as a madman with a shotgun wreaked havoc around her.

Parks, a 72nd Security Forces Squadron member, experienced danger and witnessed death during a deployment in Iraq, but nothing prepared her for the night of April 20, 2010. At a bookstore and coffee shop in Wichita Falls, Texas, she wasn’t a target for being a police officer or an airman, but for being African-American.

After changing duty stations for the fourth time in almost five years, Parks applied for retraining as an aerospace medical technician in 2009. She was accepted, and her training began April 6, 2010, at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas.

The night of the shooting, she and two classmates moved a study session from the base library to a coffee shop in town.

"We had a big test on the airway the next day,” Parks said. “I'd been [there] before, so I suggested it. I'd always been totally comfortable there."

Air Force Staff Sgts. Jade Henderson and Tanya Jesser were sitting with Parks at a table in the bookstore's coffee shop when it happened.

"I wasn't really paying attention to him when he came in," Parks said. "Then I felt someone next to me. I looked up into his eyes. I thought he was going to try and start a conversation, but his eyes were vacant, totally checked out, like there was no one there."

Then, 22-year-old Ross William Muehlberger said, "Hey [racial slur], it’s Hitler's birthday." He lifted a shotgun and fired right at Henderson's head, who was sitting across the table from Parks. The first shot grazed her; the second shot did not.

"I thought he shot her twice in the head," Parks said. "I found out later that she put her hand up, which saved her life."

Jesser dove under a table. The shooter was standing between Parks and the door.

"I got up and ran," she said. "I was tripping over tables and chairs. I just wanted to get behind the bookshelves. I heard another shot and felt something graze past my face and hair. Then I dove to the floor."

Parks said she laid there trying to control her breathing. From the training she received as a member of security forces, she thought if she played dead the shooter would ignore her. Instead, he stood over her and fired point-blank into her lower leg, shattering her bones.

"I didn't scream," Parks said. "I didn't move. I forced myself to be still so he wouldn't want to shoot me again, like a dead animal. About 20 seconds after he shot me, I heard someone scream, 'He's gone.'"

Parks screamed for Henderson and dragged herself until she could look her in the eyes. Some people came to help them and waited with them until police and ambulances arrived. They were transported by helicopter to a hospital in Dallas.

Muehlberger continued his rampage through Wichita Falls, killing 23-year-old Iraq war veteran Timothy Donley before going to a house and shooting himself dead.

From the moment Parks went into her first surgery after the shooting until now, she said she knows the Air Force has been looking out for her. She woke up in the emergency room and first saw now-retired Air Force Gen. Stephen R. Lorenz, commander of the Air Education and Training Command.

"The first thing he asked was, 'Is there anything I can do for you?' and he assured me that my family was on the way,” she said.

Parks asked him not to take her training slot away. “He told me to focus on getting better and said when I was ready, I may return to training."

The recovery care coordinator here, retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John Wood, did everything he could to assist Parks' family when her mother, sister and brother came to stay with her in Dallas for two weeks.

"In a sense, he was like a father," said Parks, who, along with Henderson, stayed at the Fisher House in Dallas while they were recovering.

"I never had to worry about setting anything up," she said. "It really proved me right. I always knew that when I joined the Air Force, if I put my all into it, they'd have my back."

Parks focused on her recovery, which took its toll. After four surgeries in less than a year, she felt like giving up. She didn't want to do rehabilitation anymore and was tired of the struggle, she said.

However, Parks had to work at regaining her strength if she wanted to maintain the physical standards required to stay in the Air Force and avoid a forced medical separation.

"Then I realized that anyone can quit, but not giving up when everyone else would understand shows true strength," Parks said.

Her leaders encouraged her to continue on. She went from a wheelchair to a walker to crutches and was told she would be out of commission for three months. But Air Force Lt. Col. Troy Roberts, her squadron commander, asked her to begin coming in every day for as long as she could stand it, even if it was only to answer phones.

"At first, I wasn't really happy about it, but now I'm so glad he asked me to do it," Parks said. "I needed to be around people, and without them I wouldn't be as far along as I am."

Roberts said what he saw Parks go through would have sent most people into a physical, mental, spiritual and career tailspin.

"Sergeant Parks has fought through and triumphed over multiple surgeries and hours of painful physical therapy," Roberts said. "She reached out to sources for strength such as wingmen, friends and family. She is one of the most resilient airmen I know."

The gunshot wound wasn't the only trauma Parks suffered last April. She has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and is receiving treatment.

"I was never bitter, because I knew what could have happened that night, but didn't; I'm still alive," Parks said. "Putting all my trust in God, I don't carry a burden around day to day. Jade and I talked about forgiveness when we were at the Fisher House. Jade told me, 'His hate was not stronger than God's love for us.' Forgiving him was the first step in our recovery."

The trauma of the shooting, however, still haunts her. She has terrible nightmares, and when she enters a business or a restaurant, she plays out in her head what she would do if a shooting occurred "as if I were already shot," she said.

Parks said she’s learning to deal with these issues. She credits her leaders at the 72nd Security Forces Squadron for their proactive response. Roberts and Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Melissa Garrett, the squadron’s first sergeant, contacted the 72nd Medical Group and had a mental health professional contact Parks within days of the shooting.

Parks said she hopes other service members will seek help for post-traumatic stress rather than suppressing it. "The therapy is awesome," she said.

Although she's willing to share her story with other airmen who are looking for inspiration to continue through struggles, she doesn't want to always be known as "the girl who got shot."

"I am not going to let this control the rest of my life," Parks said.

Lorenz kept his word, and Parks will return to aerospace medical service apprentice technical training in June. Her goal, she said, is to retire from the Air Force as a chief master sergeant.

"The injuries she suffered could have negatively affected her Air Force career, but Sergeant Parks is back on track," Roberts said. "If you think you have a reason to quit, come talk to Sergeant Parks. You will come away with a new perspective."

Service Members Take a Bite Out of the Big Apple

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Donisha Burns, Fleet Week New York Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- More than 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen "invaded" New York City May 25th as part of this year's Fleet Week New York. The annual celebration, in its 24th year, celebrates the sea services and offers an opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet the men and women who have volunteered to serve their country and protect the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.

In addition to one-on-one interactions with the Sailors, Coast Guardsmen and Marines, ships of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard were pier-side in Manhattan and Staten Island and open to the general public for tours. The ship tours, which attract more than 2,000 people daily during Fleet Week, give guests a first-hand look at the vessels used by the U.S. maritime services.

"We run over here every year," said New Jersey native Peter Obrien who was visiting USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), May 27. "We love Fleet Week, I'm a former Navy third class." Iwo, with the USCGC Tampa (WMEC 902) and USCGC Willow (WLB 202), was at Pier 88 on the west side of Manhattan for this year's celebration.

But events like Fleet Week don't happen in a vacuum and it takes numerous organizations' support and work to make it happen.

"It's our job to go above and beyond to make sure the service members are comfortable," said Patrice Simmons, a volunteer with the United Services Organization supporting Fleet Week this year. "Fleet Week is the biggest event we host and we have to meet the servicemember's expectations."

Servicemembers participated in a number of events throughout the New York City area, including a re-enlistment at ground zero, studio audiences for live television shows, and numerous live concerts, as well as a kick-off party at the Hard-Rock Cafe hosted by Morale Welfare and Recreation.

"People love to see Sailors in whites," said Mary Borree, MWR director from Naval Weapons Station Earl, New Jersey. "They take pictures, some even clap and salute," she added.

For more information on Fleet Week 2011 events, visit www.fleetweeknewyork.com or find Fleet Week New York on Facebook.

Memorial Day Observance

As Delivered by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA, Monday, May 30, 2011

Mr. President, veterans, active service members, families, welcome.  For many Americans, Memorial Day is a welcome respite from work: an extra day to spend at the beach or finish errands.  But we must never forget that it is foremost an occasion to reflect, remember, and to honor the brave men and women who have fought and died for us.  Each year we set aside a single day to reflect on the service of our armed forces in generations past and present – a day where me must also honor the sacrifices of military family members, who in recent years have borne the brunt of repeated deployments, long partings, and the fear of receiving the knock on the door with the worst of all possible news.

But I urge all Americans to remember that, just as each and every day the troops now serving faithfully pursue their mission to protect us, so each and every day they deserve our recognition, our respect, and our conscious gratitude.  Every soldier, sailor, airman, marine and coastguardsmen wearing the uniform today enlisted or reenlisted knowing they would serve in time of war.  As Thucydides put it, “The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it.”

As I come to the end of my time in this post, I know this will be my final opportunity to stand and speak in this hallowed place and pay tribute to the fallen.  It is up to us to be worthy of their sacrifice – in the decisions we make, the priorities we set, the support we provide to troops, veterans, and their families. 

For the rest of my life, I will keep these brave patriots and their loved ones in my heart and in my prayers – as I know does their Commander-in-Chief, who has so steadfastly supported those bearing the brunt of the fight.  I have been honored to work with President Obama for the past two and half years and to see the deep seriousness and thoughtfulness with which he weighs the security of nation and the safety of the men and women who serve.  Throughout, he has never shrunk from the tough decisions, the heavy burdens, and the true responsibilities of command.

It is my privilege and my honor to introduce the President of the United States.

Rolling Thunder

As Prepared for Delivery by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, Washington, D.C., Sunday, May 29, 2011

Thank you Chairman Mullen.  Thank you Artie and the whole leadership team at Rolling Thunder.  And thank you to all who have come on this Ride for Freedom, from the bottom of my heart.  This is truly a sight to behold.  But your journey here today is only one part of the relentless work of Rolling Thunder members for the past 24 years.

You have made sure that no effort is spared to bring closure to the families of men and women who have been killed or gone missing in action while defending our country.  You have performed countless acts of service on behalf of veterans and active duty members of the armed services, including those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Above all, you have helped ensure that the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform – and their families – are recognized, honored, and never forgotten.  Men and women like the wounded warriors and gold star mothers that are honored guests here today.

For most Americans, Memorial Day weekend is a respite from work.  But for those of us gathered here, it is an affirmation of our commitment to remember those heroes who have fought and died or been captured in defense of our nation – not just this weekend, but every day of our lives.  We have a sacred obligation to those who have borne that heavy burden in the past.  The men and women now protecting us on the front lines gain comfort knowing that today, if they are missing or captured we will not rest until they are accounted for and welcome home to the honor they deserve – even if conflicts recede into history.

This is my final Memorial Day serving as Secretary of Defense, every day of it spent in a time of war.  I have had – and will have – no greater honor in my life than to serve and to lead our men and women in the armed forces.  I will always keep them in my heart and my prayers, as long as I live.  They will join the likes of veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, as a heroic generation that battled in faraway lands to preserve the freedom and security of this great nation.  Generations represented by the thousands of veterans gathered here today, who well know the sacrifices that go hand in hand with this essential duty.

The American people can never repay the debt they owe to those who have fought and served, and to their family members who have stood strong at home.  Your work – and the sound of your bikes – reminds them of the costs incurred, the blood spilt, and the enduring need to maintain a strong military in a dangerous world.

Thank you and may God bless you all.

NSWC Panama City Engineer Recognized

From Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Public Affairs

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (NNS) -- A Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Panama City, Fla., engineer received the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) 2010 Technology Advancement Medal during the 2011 Joint Engineer Education and Training Conference and Expo, in Grapevine, Texas, May 25.

Alan Canfield, NSWC Panama City counter improvised explosive device (C-IED) program manager, received the annual award that honors initiative in advancement of existing engineering and related technology. Canfield was nominated for his work in the development, fielding and sustainment of the Panama City Mine Roller System.

"I sincerely appreciate the distinction of this award," Canfield said. "It would not have been possible without years of hard work by many U.S. Marine Corps and Navy active-duty and civilian personnel, and our dedicated industry partners."

In the summer 2006, the U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command Program Manager for Engineer Systems asked Canfield to provide a solution to the emerging use of pressure plate IEDs against U.S. Marine Corps and Coalition forces in Iraq. Canfield and his team began research, development, test and evaluation efforts to prototype a mine roller, a pressure plate IED-defeat system used to prevent or reduce the effects of IEDs on combat personnel and vehicles.

The team delivered their first prototype 90 days later. As of October 2010, the mine roller team has delivered more than 1,000 C-IED mine rollers.

"Alan's team met a pressing combat related need by U.S. forces serving not only overseas, but directly in harm's way," said SAME Panama City Post President Bryan Muller, who nominated Canfield for the award. "While many engineering projects like infrastructure or facilities can take years to develop, this was a great case of looking at a problem for an effective solution that was both quick to deploy and low in cost."

Chairman’s Corner: Memorial Day 2011

By Navy Adm. Mike Mullen

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2011 – As our Nation marks the 150th anniversary of the first year of the Civil War, this weekend we observe Memorial Day, a tradition that originated following the toll that terrible conflict levied upon our Nation.

Originally known as Decoration Day for the flowers placed upon the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers, this holiday, more than any other, reminds us of those who gave up their future so that we could have ours.

Today, another generation of America’s sons and daughters is fighting for us. Sadly in this decade of war, we have lost some tremendous young men and women who are deeply missed by their loved ones and those with whom they served. In the truest sense, they have rendered a sacrifice that we, the living, can never fully repay.

One thing we can do, however, is reach out to those for whom they cared the most -- their families. So as we commemorate our Nation’s fallen heroes this weekend, I ask every American to please join me in honoring their sacrifice by supporting the families of the fallen as well as our wounded warriors and their families who have also sacrificed so much.

We must never forget them -- not just today, but every day.

National Guard Helps Storm-Damaged Communities

By Cheryl Pellerin

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 26, 2011 – More than 3,400 men and women of the National Guard are on the ground in seven states helping communities damaged by deadly tornadoes and floods, Army Maj. Gen. David L. Harris said today.

Harris, director of domestic operations and force development for the National Guard Bureau, spoke in a joint interview with the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service.

The states include Alabama, Arkansas, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin, Harris said.

Guardsmen are working with local and state officials, police and emergency responders in Joplin, Mo., he said, where a powerful tornado struck May 22, causing at least 125 deaths, more than 750 injuries and damage to homes and businesses.

The National Guard soldiers there are working in the life-saving phase, which Harris said lasts 72 to 96 hours before they transition to the recovery phase.

Soldiers are searching debris for survivors, working with local law enforcement to provide security, going house to house doing “wellness checks” of people who have no power, water or gas.

“We know that there are many still unaccounted for and our hearts go out to the community,” Harris said. “It just couldn’t be any harder than not knowing the status of a loved one.”

In Joplin, he added, the roof was torn off the National Guard Armory.

The armory is without power and gas, “but we’re still using it to help in the response,” Harris said, “providing temporary communications out of that position. So it’s still a part of the community and still working quite aggressively.”

It’s been a while “since we’ve had this type of and this much damage at once,” he added. “ … I’m sure this is catching a lot of people off guard.”

Earlier this year the guard supported Texas during a severe outbreak of wildfires, Harris said.

Three mobile air fire-fighting systems -- C-130s with devices inside to disperse fire retardant -- spent a month there to get the fires under control.

“I think at one point they said all but two counties in Texas had something on fire,” the general said.

The guard also helped in eight states recently flooded by an overflowing Mississippi River.

North Dakota still has soldiers watching levees and [working on] temporary dams and sandbagging operations there,” Harris said.

South Dakota, Iowa and Illinois all had fairly significant flood responses this year, he added.

In Missouri, the guard was involved in evacuating people from flood zones along the Mississippi and working the levees there, and helping with flooding in Tennessee and Kentucky.

In Louisiana, where the Mississippi begins flowing into the Gulf of Mexico, 1,100 soldiers are working with the Army Corps of Engineers to check levees, doing regular inspections and repairs, Harris said.

Those who manage the National Guard soldiers are staying vigilant through the spring, the general said.

“With record amounts of winter snowfall in the north and the west, everybody is watching the rivers and hoping that we don’t get rain on top of a good thaw because that would make the situation worse,” he said, noting that hurricane season quickly follows spring.

“We go from floods to wildfires to hurricanes to snow and ice, Harris said. “We get a short break and then we start again.”

Gravely Completes Final Contract Trials

From Program Executive Office Ships Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS Gravely (DDG 107) successfully completed Final Contract Trials in Norfolk, Va., May 19.

The trial, run by the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV), is part of a series of post-delivery test and trials during which the ship and its major systems are exercised, tested and corrected as required.

INSURV officials closely monitored the testing of the ship's main propulsion & auxiliary systems, Aegis Combat System, communication and navigation systems, and habitability. Successful demonstrations of the ship's full power, steering, anchoring, anti-aircraft warfare (AAW), ship's self defense, and anti-surface warfare (ASW) capabilities were accomplished.

"The crew of Gravely has worked extremely hard to successfully complete this key shipbuilding milestone as assessed by INSURV," said Capt. Pete Lyle, DDG 51 Class Shipbuilding program manager for the Navy's Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. "The Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Doug Kunzman has thoroughly trained his crew and deftly instilled their ownership of Gravely. INSURV has confirmed that this ship is prepared to execute her mission."

Gravely was commissioned last year in Wilmington, N.C. The ship is named for Vice Adm. Samuel Lee Gravely, the first African-American to command a warship and to attain flag rank, among many other achievements.

Gravely is a guided-missile destroyer designed to operate in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments. The ship is equipped with the Navy's Aegis Combat System, the world's foremost integrated naval weapon system. The class provides outstanding combat capability and survivability characteristics while minimizing procurement and lifetime support costs due to the program's maturity. The DDG 51 program continues to reinforce affordability and efficiency, with a commitment to deliver ships at the highest possible quality.

As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships, an affiliated PEO of the Naval Sea Systems Command, is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all major surface combatants, amphibious ships, special mission and support ships, and special warfare craft. Currently, the majority of shipbuilding programs managed by PEO Ships are benefiting from serial production efficiencies, which are critical to delivering ships on cost and schedule.

Today in the Department of Defense, Saturday, May 28, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.