Mullen Presents Silver Star to Fallen Sailor’s Widow

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON  – The nation’s top military officer today presented a posthumous Silver Star to the widow of a heroic Navy officer who was killed in Afghanistan.

During a ceremony at the Navy Memorial here, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told the hundreds of people in attendance that Lt. j.g. Francis L. Toner faced death “tragically and heroically.”

Toner, 26, was deployed to Afghanistan with an embedded training team as garrison engineer mentor for the Afghan National Army’s 209th Corps at Forward Operating Base Shaheen, near Mazar-e-Sharif in northern Afghanistan.

He and three other officers were exercising, running around the camp’s perimeter on March 27, 2009, when an enemy fighter who had infiltrated the Afghan army attacked with a firearm.

As Toner’s Silver Star citation recounts, “In seconds, officers were shot and lying wounded on the ground. The gunman proceeded to shoot one of the wounded officers. … Toner, unarmed, verbally challenged the insurgent and continued to advance until he was fatally wounded.”

“I’ve been to enough [award presentations] and I’ve seen enough citations to know that he was basically walking straight into the enemy’s fire,” the chairman said of Toner’s actions. “We shouldn’t -- and we won’t -- ever, ever forget that service, that sacrifice,” the admiral added. “Because that is what makes us strong, as a military and as a nation.”

The chairman said today’s ceremony, attended largely by sailors in uniform, was particularly poignant for the Navy because Toner deployed as an individual augmentee, attached to an Army unit.

“I started that [program] when I was [chief of naval operations],” the admiral said.

Mullen said his experience in Vietnam and knowledge of ground operations made the decision to deploy individual sailors very simple.

“I knew the ground forces would bear the brunt, and every sailor I could get into the fight was going to relieve a soldier,” he said.

The Navy and Air Force have had thousands of their members “in the sand” of Iraq and Afghanistan, Mullen said.

“There are 12,000 there today, and that continues,” he said.

Brooke Toner, who accepted her husband’s Silver Star, spoke during the ceremony and thanked everyone who attended.

“Form the moment I got that knock on the door -- which was the worst day of my life -- I’ve been supported by my casualty assistance officer, by Admiral Mullen, by [Navy Rear Adm. Christopher J. Mossey, commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Command], by all of our friends who have wrapped their arms around our family to support us all,” she said.

Toner was born Sept. 26, 1982, in Panorama City, Calif. He graduated from Westlake High School in 2001 and his family relocated to Narragansett, Rhode Island, in 2002.

In the summer of 2002, Toner entered the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. where he earned a bachelor of science degree in marine engineering and shipyard management.

In May 2006, Toner was commissioned an ensign in the U.S. Navy. He graduated from Navy Civil Engineer Corps Officer School in Port Hueneme, Calif., September 2006, and was assigned to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

He reported to Camp Mike Spann in Afghanistan in October 2008 for a one-year individual augmentee assignment.

Toner is survived by his wife, Brooke Toner; mother, Rebecca Toner; father, Francis Toner III; stepmother, Sharon; sister, Amanda; and brothers, John and Michael.

Toner was previously posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with valor. The Silver Star is the third highest combat military decoration.

USS New Hampshire Sailors Present Flags to Governor Prior to Speedway Race

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group Two Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Twenty Sailors from USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) attended the New Hampshire Motor Speedway race in Loudon, N.H., Sept. 25, during one of many Navy community outreach events planned for New England Navy Week 2011.

Navy weeks feature engagements with corporate, civic, government, education and community service organizations and are conducted primarily to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy.

"Attending this week's race in Loudon is a great opportunity for our Sailors to continue their great relationship with their namesake state of New Hampshire and proudly represent both," said Cmdr. John McGunnigle, commanding officer, USS New Hampshire.

Prior to the call to start their engines and with tens of thousands NASCAR fans watching, McGunnigle presented New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch with an American flag and state flag, both of which were flown on USS New Hampshire in the Arctic during Ice Exercise 2011.

"USS New Hampshire has a great connection with its namesake state. This week, five of my Sailors will participate in various New England Navy Week engagements to expand the awareness of our Navy, and in particular our submarine forces," said McGunnigle.

New Hampshire was commissioned at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, Oct. 25, 2008. She is the fourth ship to be named for the state of New Hampshire.

New England Navy Week 2011, gives area residents an opportunity to meet some of the Navy's Sailors and learn about the Navy's critical missions and its broad ranging capabilities.

New England Navy week runs Sept. 24-Oct. 2. The U.S. Navy conducts approximately 20 Navy Weeks each year. During a Navy Week celebration, the Navy concentrates a variety of outreach events in a metropolitan area for a week, sharing the Navy story with as many people as possible.

Injured Veterans Wrap Up Sports Clinic

By Terri Moon Cronk

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2011 – The fourth-annual National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic that drew 100 injured military veterans, including three active-duty Marines, concludes today in San Diego.

This year’s clinic began Sept. 18. The yearly clinics, sponsored primarily by the Veterans Affairs Department, feature workshops designed to assist injured veterans to develop sports skills, officials said.

Attendees participated in adaptive kayaking, sailing, track and field, cycling, and surfing.

For many participants, the clinic is their first exposure to the therapeutic value of adaptive sports and recreational activities, officials said.

“The Summer Sports Clinic is proof of VA’s commitment to improve the quality of life for veterans with disabilities,” Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said. “The clinic helps our most severely injured veterans gain physical and mental confidence.”

This year’s group of veterans attending the clinic had sustained injuries such as amputations, traumatic brain injuries, burns, psychological trauma, certain neurological conditions, visual impairments and spinal cord injuries.

At the outset of the clinic, VA’s undersecretary for health, Dr. Robert Petzel, said participants would be surrounded by fellow veterans who share common bonds though their service.

“The clinic helps wounded veterans return to active lifestyles through physical and mental rehabilitation,” Petzel added.

The VA’s San Diego Healthcare System has hosted the clinic since 2008. Other clinic sponsors this year include its founders, Help Hospitalized Veterans and the Veterans Canteen Service, as well as San Diego Marriott Marquis and Marina, Cisco Systems Inc., Health Net, Booz Allen Hamilton and Challenged America.

The 2012 National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic is scheduled to be held in San Diego from Sept. 16 to 21.

USS Constitution Sailors Participate in New England Navy Week

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From USS Constitution Public Affairs

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to USS Constitution began participating in New England Navy Week in Springfield, Mass., Sept. 24.

Sailors will perform War of 1812-era gun drills and 17th century boarding pike drills daily at The Big E, Eastern States Exposition, the largest fair in the Northeastern United States that is expected to attract more than one million guests.

"Navy Weeks in general are a great opportunity to bring the Navy to areas that are not near a Navy base and show people what the Navy is doing for the nation," said Cmdr. Matthew Bonner, Constitution's 72nd commanding officer. "It helps strengthen the relationship between the public and the Navy."

Sailors are also scheduled to teach naval history and interact with more than 300 students at Converse Middle School and Granite Valley Middle School in Monson, Mass.

Additionally, they will meet and give Navy ballcaps to children dealing with chronic and severe health issues as part of a Caps for Kids visit at Bay State Medical Center.

"I am excited to take part in one of my ship's important missions to give back to our community," said Seaman Gerald Coriolan, a Sailor assigned to Constitution. "There's no better place in Massachusetts or a better time to have a Navy Week."

This is the fifth Navy Week Constitution Sailors will participate in this year. The event runs through Oct. 2. They performed similar activities teaching naval history to more than 400 middle school students and giving more than 130 ballcaps to children in Tampa Bay, Fla., Austin, Texas, New Orleans and Chattanooga, Tenn.

The primary purpose of Navy Week is to increase Navy awareness by presenting the Navy to Americans who live in cities that normally do not have a significant naval presence. New England Navy Week will showcase the mission, capabilities and achievements of the U.S. Navy and provide residents the opportunity to meet Sailors in person.

Constitution is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard of Boston Harbor and is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat. The ship defended the sea lanes against threat from 1797 to 1855, much like the mission of today's Navy. Constitution's mission today is to offer community outreach and education about the ship's history, as she welcomes more than 500,000 visitors per year.

Greenert Becomes Chief of Naval Operations, Roughead Steps Down

By Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyle P. Malloy

Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2011 – Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert became the 30th chief of naval operations during a change of command ceremony today at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

Greenert accepted the Navy’s highest military post from Adm. Gary Roughead, who will retire Sept. 30 from the post he has held since September 2007. Both officers are Naval Academy graduates; Roughead, in 1973, and Greenert, in 1975.

Greenert, who previously served as vice chief of naval operations, will now become a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In that capacity, he will serve as principal naval adviser to Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and President Barack Obama.

Mabus said the Navy will go through a transparent transition with Greenert now serving as its top officer.

“Admiral Roughead's contributions may be hard if not impossible to surpass, but I am confident that if anyone can match them it is Jon Greenert,” Mabus said.

Greenert praised Roughead’s example and said he would strive to follow it.

"My priorities, our course, are one, we've got to remain ready to meet the current challenges today, we've got to build a relevant and capable future fleet, and we have got to continue to care for our sailors, our civilians and their families, and recruit and nurture a motivated, relevant and diverse force," he said.

Greenert said he will focus on three tenets while in office: warfighting first, operate forward and be ready.

"We will approach our challenges and we will implement our changes that will have to be done in the future with three tenets in mind," he said. "They will be effective [and] efficient. Our solutions will be joint and the Marine Corps will remain our primary partner."

Mabus, who served as keynote speaker for the ceremony, highlighted Roughead's accomplishments during his naval career while thanking him for his leadership.

"I don't think anyone can ever fully express how much we're going to miss Gary Roughead's counsel and absolutely unwavering commitment to the Navy [and] the United States," said Mabus.

"Admiral Roughead has had the genius and the skill to turn so many of the challenges he's faced into opportunities," he said.

Mabus reviewed Roughead's career milestones, including being one of only two Navy admirals to command both the Pacific and Atlantic fleets.

"As chief of naval operations, his leadership has helped to reshape the Navy into the 21st century, operationally and strategically," said Mabus. "Gary Roughead's leadership skills follow great officers and a willingness to innovate while respecting the deep traditions of the sea service."

Mabus spoke about Roughead's commitment to his sailors, and how he always made them his first priority. "He never lost sight of the primary responsibility of leadership -- taking care of the people entrusted to you and to the office you hold," he said.

As Roughead took the podium, he thanked his counterparts, both foreign and domestic, friends and his family for their continued support and guidance during his tenure. He spoke about his unique experiences in the armed service, especially in the relationships built.

"There has been a lot of change, but throughout, there has been the decisive, constant and the aspect of the Navy that will be my enduring memory - our sailors," he said.

In an emotional conclusion, Roughead summarized his naval career.

"To echo what another Navy man said nearly five decades ago at this academy, when asked what I did to make my life worthwhile, I will respond with a great deal of pride and satisfaction, ‘I served in the United States Navy,’” he said.

National Military Medical Center Opens New Fitness Center

By Bernard S. Little, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, at Bethesda, (WRNMMC) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the command's new fitness center, Sept. 22.

The 45,000-square foot facility offers a 50-meter indoor pool, an indoor running track, and NBA/NCAA regulation-sized basketball court. Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) staff held a Fit Challenge and "Fun Palooza" in the state-of-the-art gymnasium to celebrate the opening.

Events included basketball scrimmages for wounded warriors, fitness demonstrations and contests, a blood drive, food, prizes and giveaways.

A basketball scrimmage was held between AMP1 and the hospital staff, said Wendy Tompkins, manager of the fitness center. AMP1 is the first organized stand-up amputee basketball team in the country, she said. WNBA Washington Mystics' forward/center Crystal Langhorne, from the University of Maryland, was the honorary coach for the hospital staff team.

The USO, the Washington Redskins cheerleaders and staff from Information, Tickets & Technology (ITT) were also in attendance for the Fun Palooza.

The Fit Challenge began with TRX and Kangoo, Tompkins said. TRX is a form of suspension fitness training which offers alternative exercises and is beneficial for wounded warriors. Kangoo offers a fun fitness workout using spring boots and is ideal for people with bad knees or who have had back injuries because its low impact, she said.

5-K runs also took place, along with a half-mile swim challenge, an eight-mile spin bike ride, and a wheelchair basketball scrimmage with Paralympic players.

"We're very proud of the variety of things we offer," Tompkins said.

The fitness center offers personal training services and fitness classes, including BodyPump, BodyFlow, BodyCombat, spinning, yoga, boot camp, water aerobics and more, she said. In addition, the gym has racquetball courts, cardio and weight equipment, spinning and group work-out studios.

"We are also getting ready to start a class to work with our Department of Defense dependent children focusing on teen obesity," she added. "We're trying to entertain everyone."

Intramural sports, including basketball, softball, volleyball, kickball, indoor soccer and indoor wheelchair flag football, will also be offered by the fitness center, Tompkins said. Anyone who has a CAC and works on base, except contractors, can use the facility, she added. Full-time NIH employees can also use the fitness center.

In addition to the variety of programs offered by the fitness center, Tompkins is most proud of her staff of 19 fitness and recreational specialists and personal trainers.

"They all get along and have come together as a team," she said.

This is important in the center which has seen its patronage increase from about 350 people per day at its previous locations (in Building 147) to about 1,000 per day since it moved into Building 17, she added.

Tompkins said that Bob Killion, the Quality of Life director at WRNMMC, has also been instrumental in helping with its growth.

"He's a big part of what we've accomplished here. We're glad to be here and able to offer the services that we have," Tompkins continued.

She added that people have waited patiently for the new center to open and there will be some growing pains in an effort to improve services, but people's patience will be worth the wait.

"I'm proud of what we've done and how things are run," she said.

Blue Angels Meet with Students at Norfolk High School

By Lt. Stephanie Homick, Navy Public Affairs Support Element - East

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Members of the Navy's flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, visited Granby High School in Norfolk, Va. to meet with Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) students Sept. 23.

Lt. Cmdr. Jim Tomaszeski, Marine Corps Capt. Brandon Cordill, and Avionics Technician 2nd Class Will Martin, along with local Navy and Marine Corps recruiters, spoke to high school students from Granby High School, Lake Taylor High School and Lee Davis High School.

Students from all three high schools filled the seats of the auditorium, dressed in their NJROTC uniforms or Navy T-shirts. Prior to the start of the presentation, students chanted motivational phrases in unison.

Following the presentation of the flag and the singing of the national anthem, the Blue Angels played a video, which showcased their mission. Tomaszeski, the number two pilot and right wing of the team, said that the video showed the pride and professionalism of the U.S. Navy. He then spoke of his role as a member of the Blue Angels team and why he became a pilot in the first place.

"I wanted a sense of excitement," and the thrill of adventure while serving his country, said Tomaszeski.

Martin next explained his role as a crew chief, ensuring the maintenance of the aircraft and completing the final safety check just prior to the pilot strapping in for flight. Speaking about the pilot whose aircraft he inspects, he added, "His life in is my hands."

Afterward, students asked the Blue Angels and the recruiters questions about the naval service. Questions ranged from "what does one have to do to become a Blue Angel?" to "what was the worst weather the pilots had ever flown in?"

When asked what the best part of his job was, Tomaszeski answered, "This [speaking to students] is the most rewarding part of my job ... I hope to inspire the students to join the Navy, a global force for good."

The Blue Angels have performed for more than 427 million spectators since their inception in 1946. They fly the same aircraft and perform the same maneuvers as Navy combat pilots flying over Afghanistan and operating off flight decks of aircrafts carriers worldwide.

Navy Memorial Hosts 24th Annual Lone Sailor Awards Dinner

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Mikelle D. Smith, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy Memorial honored six military veterans during the 2011 Lone Sailor awards dinner held at the National Building Museum in Washington, Sept. 22.

The notable veterans included Lloyd "Beau" Bridges III, Jeff Bridges, Lloyd Bridges, Brian Lamb, Jerry Coleman and Bob Feller. Beau Bridges, Lamb and Coleman were in attendance and were presented with the Lone Sailor award before military members and distinguished guests at the dinner.

Beau Bridges, an actor, producer and director, was recognized for his accomplishments as a civilian after serving both active and Reserve duty in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Lamb was recognized for his service as a naval officer and, later, founder of C-SPAN.

Coleman, said to be the only Major League Baseball player to have seen combat in two wars, was recognized for the 120 missions he flew as an aviator and his devotion to the Marine Corps.

The Lone Sailor award is presented to veterans who have excelled in their respective civilian careers while continuing to exemplify military values.

"This event allows the Navy Memorial Foundation, and the entire Navy, the opportunity to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the maritime services and our nation," said Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mark Ferguson.

Beau Bridges, following in the footsteps of his father Lloyd, enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1959 and served eight years as a Reservist, after active duty.

"I enlisted when I was 17 after Kennedy threw up the blockade in Cuba," said Bridges. "My father, thinking that there would be a draft, suggested that I try to choose my service beforehand. My father had been made an honorary commodore in the Coast Guard and I knew a lot of the personnel, so I chose to enlist in the Coast Guard."

Bridges accepted his Lone Sailor Award on behalf of his deceased father, Lloyd, and younger brother Jeff who could not attend the event.

"My motto in the Coast Guard was Semper Paratus, which means "always ready." That is something that I have carried with me my whole life," said Bridges. "I also learned how important respect is; respecting yourself, respecting your mates, respecting the authorities that are training you and getting you ready ... these are all qualities that I have tried to pass on to my children and carry on for myself and my life."

Lamb, who enlisted in the Navy after graduating from Purdue University, served in many different media elements during his time in the military. He was an aide in the Johnson administration and also a Pentagon public affairs officer during the Vietnam War.

"When I got into the Navy there was structure," said Lamb. "I found people that were dedicated and committed ... I got a sense that people wanted me to learn and all of that fed into the beginning of my life; these foundation experiences will always be paramount in my life."

Lamb added that he didn't think he would have done what he did without serving in the Navy.

After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy in 1967, Lamb began working as a freelance reporter and spent the next 12 years honing his skills as a political media journalist. In 1977, he won the support of key cable industry executives and began developing a station using satellite uplinks, known today as C-SPAN.

"The advice I would give to young Sailors today would be to look around and take advantage of every opportunity available to you," said Lamb. "Always ask questions. Get down to the bottom of why someone wants you to do what they are asking. If you pay attention, it will help you and it can work for you."

Coleman joined the Marine Corps in 1942 as a naval aviation cadet. After receiving his wings in 1944, he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant, and went on to see combat during World War II and the Korean War. (See these Korean War books written only by Korean War veterans)

"When I found out I was getting the Lone Sailor award, I was thrilled to death," said Coleman. "The proudest moment of my life was the day that I got my second lieutenant bars and my aviator wings ... that still, to this day, remains the highlight of my life."

Coleman returned to professional baseball in 1953 and finished up his career in 1957. He went on to become a sports broadcaster for CBS television and has been recognized by the Marine Corps, as well as being inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2007 for his work in broadcasting.

"As a professional baseball player and broadcaster I think the one thing that stayed with me since my time in the service has been trying to do my best," said Coleman. "When called upon, the United States military are the best qualified [people] in the world."

Prior to the awards ceremony dinner, Bridges, Lamb and Coleman received a tour of the Navy Memorial, which houses the Lone Sailor statue. The Lone Sailor statue is a composite of the U.S. Navy bluejacket, past, present and future, and was designed in 1987.

The Lone Sailor award has been presented to 73 Navy and Marine Corps veterans, and the Navy Memorial continues to provide Navy veterans and personnel currently serving with a place to celebrate their service.

Face of Defense: NCO Heads to All-Army Golf Trials

By Yvonne Johnson

U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md., Sept. 22, 2011 – Though Army Master Sgt. Sheila Sango has golfed just eight years, she has hopes of becoming one of the Army’s elite golfers.

Sango, a career counselor with the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command here, was selected to compete in the All-Army Golf Trials held tomorrow through Sept. 26 at Fort Jackson, S.C.

Upwards of 30 of the Army's top golfers will compete in the trials. The top finishers from the 72-hole event will form the 2011 All Army Team, which will compete against teams from the Air Force, Navy and Marines in the Armed Forces Championship held Sept. 28 to Oct. 1, also at the Fort Jackson Golf Club.

This is Sango's second trip to the trials. She competed last year and hopes to do better.

"I didn't do as well as I can; it was a very humbling experience," Sango said. "Through the grace of God, I will do well this year."

A native of California, Sango is a 21-year Army veteran who came to Aberdeen in March from Hawaii. Sango has two combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and said she started playing golf while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, after years of playing softball.

"I used to love softball, but for some reason I always enjoyed watching golf," she said.

Sango credits various coworkers who shared their knowledge of the game as she honed her skills. She said a Maryland-based nonprofit golfing organization, along with local golf club manager Rick Bond and golf pro Dave Correll, took her under their wings.

"Dave has been very valuable; he's given me great tips," Sango said. "There is no perfect swing. He takes your swing and works with that.”

Bond called Sango a great player who is driven to succeed.

"She's not just a wonderful player -- she's even a nicer person," he said. "She's a joy to be around and she has a tireless work ethic. Even if it's raining, she's out here working on her game. We're all pulling for her."

Sango said she feels her first assignment on the East Coast is not by chance.

"I just know I'm here for a reason," she said. "I've found a nice church here and a beautiful place to perfect my [golf] game.”

Sango said she loves the quiet of early-morning golf.

"There's nothing here but you and nature,” she said. “I see geese and deer, and I even saw a little fox out here. It's inspiring. So I just keep trying and trying. I know God will still love me whether I fail or succeed as long as I just don't quit."

Report Examines Lower Body Blast Injuries

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2011 – The Army Surgeon General’s Office released its report yesterday on dismounted complex blast injuries, which more than twice as many service members have suffered annually since the 2009 troop surge in Afghanistan.

Army Brig. Gen. (Dr.) Joseph Caravalho Jr., commander of the Army’s Northern Regional Medical Command, detailed the report’s findings to reporters here.

The injury pattern known as DCBI, Caravalho said, is typically caused by a mine or roadside-bomb explosion, affects troops on foot patrol, and involves traumatic amputation of one leg, at least a severe injury to the other leg, and wounds to any or all of the pelvis, abdomen and genitals.

Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Eric Schoomaker charted a task force in 2011 to study the injury pattern, Caravalho said. The group, which Caravalho chaired, included experts from the Army, Marine Corps and Veterans Affairs Department, who examined the causes, prevention, protection, treatment and long-term care options for service members suffering these severe injuries, he added.

“These are life-defining injuries for these warriors and their families, but it is not desperate,” Caravalho said. “All of us in uniform understand it’s not just about saving lives; it’s about doing everything military medicine can do to help them lead full and productive lives.”

The report details the number of surviving service member amputees from January 2010 to March 2011. Of 194 amputations, 78 resulted from DCBI and 116 from other causes. By service, 53 Marines, 23 soldiers and two sailors suffered dismounted complex blast injuries resulting in amputation.

Caravalho said while severe injuries nearly doubled from 2009 to 2010, military medicine is saving more lives than ever before.

More combat troops are surviving, he said, because personal protective equipment and armored combat vehicles have decreased the number of head, torso and serious burn injuries; battlefield medics focus first on controlling bleeding with tourniquets; helicopter evacuation times are shorter; there are highly trained medical professionals aboard those helicopters; and medical surgeons have improved surgical resuscitation.

The task force identified 92 recommendations to improve quality of care to service members suffering lower body blast injuries and their families, Caravalho said.

Some best practices have already been implemented, he added: paramedic training for flight medics, to improve the level of care available during medevac; and early use of blood products, possibly even on the battlefield.

Other recommendations focus on point-of-injury and long-term pain management, and on a multidisciplinary approach to long-term care, he said.

Army Col. (Dr.) James Ficke, chairman of the orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation department at Brooke Army Medical Center near San Antonio, told reporters he has worked with many service members who have suffered complex blast injuries.

One, a West Point graduate of less than a year, lost three limbs, Ficke said.

“He’s married; he has a brand-new baby,” Ficke said. “He went through a grieving process, as we can only imagine -- it would be hubris to say we understand what they’ve gone through. But for him to go through that grieving process, and then recover, and be in a wheelchair the rest of his life, but see that child grow up -- he has said, ‘I’m glad I’m alive.’”

Service members who suffer these injuries can still live fruitful and productive lives, but need help to deal with fear of the unknown, he said.

“We have mentoring, we have individuals that have gone through something like this and are able to coach, and tell someone who’s just starting that process: ‘This is what it’s like. I’ve been there; I know,’” Ficke said.

Caravalho said research continues into “blast boxers,” armored underwear that may help prevent some genital and femoral artery injuries.

Army Col. (Dr.) Jonathan Jaffin, chief of staff for the Army Surgeon General Office’s Complex Battle Injury Work Group, said the military medical research community also is researching how to compress blood vessels “that otherwise you couldn’t get a tourniquet on.”

Ficke added, “If we can stop bleeding, we can keep people alive. That’s why we’ve seen such success in survival in this war, with severe injuries.”

The next challenge is to achieve similar success with genital injuries, he added.

“We have reconstructive urologists in the combat support hospitals, deployed, so that if there is a testicular or genital injury that is salvageable, that surgeon can do something far forward,” Ficke said.

The long-term prognosis for people who have had a leg amputated is best if doctors can preserve the other leg, even if it’s damaged, Ficke said.

“If we have technology … that can improve that ability to walk, it, long-term, gives them a better health outcome for heart disease, diabetes, all of those things,” he said. “We are now working with an exciting device that enables someone to use a limb that has had a devastating injury … and can still run.”

Military medical teams use a multidisciplinary approach to complex blast injuries, incorporating surgeons, therapists, prosthetists and behavioral medicine experts to give patients the best possible long-term outcome, Ficke said.

Caravalho said military medical professionals want service members to know there always is hope, even after complex traumatic injuries.

“Military medicine and the VA will be with them for the long term,” he said. “They are entitled to the absolute best care we can provide -- not because of their injuries, but because of their service.”

Schwartz: Air Force Will Preserve 'Core Contributions'

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By Mitch Gettle

Air Force Public Affairs Agency

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md., Sept. 21, 2011 – Air Force leaders are focused on managing potential budget constraints so that the service can continue to provide its unique contributions to national security, the Air Force chief of staff said yesterday.

Speaking before hundreds of attendees at the Air Force Association's 2011 Air and Space Conference and Technology Exposition here, Gen. Norton A. Schwartz said service leaders will not allow budget pressures to create a future force that "merely appears on paper to be effective, but in reality is reduced substantially in depth and breadth."

Schwartz said the Air Force's core contributions reside in four main areas: control and exploitation of the air and space domains, as well as mission assurance in cyberspace; global strike; rapid global mobility; and worldwide intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

These four contributions are enhanced by the Air Force's superior command and control networks, Schwartz said.

"In any budget scenario, we will be required to continue providing capabilities that offer the nation's leaders a wide range of strategic options for rapid and flexible power projection," Schwartz said. "Our core contributions enable America's global perspective and result in appropriately tailored effects at times and places of our choosing."

The Air Force's unique capabilities are essential for the nation's strategic interests, economic prosperity and military readiness, Schwartz said, describing the United States as an "air and space nation."

"So as we may have to carefully consider reduced capacities in some areas while maintaining, and perhaps increasing investment in others, we must carefully consider and calibrate our acceptance of risk, manifested in a force that's smaller in size and scale," he said.

Such "difficult choices," will extend into the Air Force's procurement programs, the general said. Future development efforts will have to be less ambitious, and government and industry must appraise and adhere to genuine operational requirements and evaluate manufacturability early.

"We require straight talk from everybody," Schwartz said. "Government must ensure stable requirements and reliable funding streams, while industry must bid according to realistic estimates, and resist offering to sell more than what is operationally required."

The Air Force's acquisition corps is ready for such challenges, given the progress it has made over the last three years, he said.

"Although we will always be accountable for responsibly expending hard-earned and precious taxpayer dollars, we can regard our acquisition processes and procedures as having achieved a notable restoration of effective control and oversight," Schwartz said.

Another area the Air Force has made similar progress in since 2008 is the nuclear enterprise. "Without resting on our laurels, we can be proud of the result: a nuclear enterprise that is renewed and focused on its commitment to avoiding critical performance shortfalls," he said. "Our work in this critical area remains worthy, valued and essential to our nation's security."

To maintain such excellence across the Air Force, the general said the service will intensify its efforts to develop airmen, "arming them with intellectual and experiential strength that is on par with the advanced capabilities that our weapon systems provide."

Schwartz acknowledged the excellence displayed by all airmen by recognizing the achievements of Staff Sgt. Robert Gutierrez Jr., a joint terminal attack controller who, despite suffering serious wounds, helped save his Special Forces team in Afghanistan during a Taliban attack by expertly calling in air strikes.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley recently approved the awarding of the Air Force Cross, the service's highest military honor, to Gutierrez, Schwartz announced during his remarks.

While airmen face a future of fiscal and operational challenges, Schwartz said he remains confident that the Air Force will remain ready to defend the nation and its freedoms.

"The U.S. Air Force will be prepared for whatever the nation requires of us," he said. "We will provide the many utilities of airpower, as only airmen can provide it: vital in the national context and indispensable in the proud pursuit of our nation's interests.

"We will be there for our joint teammates and for the nation," he continued. "We will do it, or we'll die trying."

DOD Announces Return of Facilities in Germany

The US Department of Defense announced today that it will return several facilities to the German government.  These are: the Oberweis Annex warehouse; three communication sites at Pruem Air Station, Hahn Communication Station and ARFT radio relay station; Hochspeyer ammunition storage facility; and Bitburg Storage Annex No.2 (French Kaserne).

These closures are part of U.S. European Command’s continued effort to remove non-enduring sites, bases and installations from its real-property inventory.

There are no personnel changes associated with these facilities and their return will have no impact on U.S. Air Forces in Europe operations in Europe.  The United States plans to return the facilities to the host nation now through 2015.

Cost savings per site are as follows:

·         Oberweis Annex warehouse: approximately $1.24 million

·         Pruem Air Station communication sites, Hahn Communication Station and  ARFT radio relay station: approximately $560,000 

·         Hochspeyer ammunition storage facility: approximately $52,000

·         Bitburg Storage Annex No.2 (French Kaserne): approximately $1.5 million

As with all stationing actions, the United States has coordinated with host-nation officials prior to this public announcement.

For additional information regarding this announcement, please contact U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs at 011-49-6371-47-6558 or pa.ops@ramstein.af.mil .

2011 - 2012 Influenza Vaccination Season Underway

Discover the best Navy books written by sailors for tomorrow's sailors.

From Commander, Navy Installations Command Public Affairs and U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy officials reminded all Navy active duty Sailors and Reservists Sept. 22 they must receive the seasonal influenza or "flu" vaccine upon its availability at their local installation's medical treatment facility (MTF) as directed by NAVADMIN 207/11.

The Navy's goal is to have 90 percent of all Navy personnel vaccinated for the flu by Dec. 1.

"It's important for all the active duty personnel to realize that the single best way to prevent the flu is with vaccination," said Vice Adm. Adam M. Robinson Jr., U.S. Navy surgeon general and chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. "Without it, the influenza virus could have a sweeping impact on our force readiness and ability to meet our mission."

Each year in the U.S., there are more than 25 million reported cases of the flu with more than 150,000 hospitalizations due to complications and more than 24,000 deaths.

Navy personnel and their family members can take preventive measures to reduce the risk of exposure to and spread of the flu. These methods include washing hands, maintaining a clean home and work environment, teleworking, and staying home from work when sick.

To learn when the flu vaccination will be available at your local MTF, check your installation newspaper, social media sites, or contact your local MTF.

Wisconsin Guard command chief warrant officer promoted to highest rank

Discover the stories of other Iraq War veterans from these Iraq War books written by the men and women who fought there.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Craig T. Krenz of Tomah, Wis., command chief warrant officer for the Wisconsin Army National Guard, was promoted to the rank of chief warrant officer 5 in a Monday (Sept. 19) ceremony at Joint Force Headquarters, Madison.

The rank of chief warrant officer 5 is the highest attainable as a warrant officer.

"I’m humbled and I’m honored," Krenz said. "I’ve had the fortune of having a great career."

During the ceremony, Krenz imparted lessons learned throughout his career. "The best thing I can pass on to anybody is know your commander’s intent."

Krenz enlisted in 1980 with the Headquarters Company, 724th Engineer Battalion located in Superior. He served as a vehicle driver, unit clerk, personnel staff non-commissioned officer and reconnaissance sergeant until 1990, when he transferred to the Headquarters State Area Command in Madison.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Craig T. Krenz, the command chief warrant officer for the Wisconsin Army National Guard, is promoted to the rank of chief warrant officer 5 in a Sept. 19 ceremony at Joint Force Headquarters, Madison. His father, Bruce Krenz, and wife Jeanine, help pin on the new rank. Wisconsin National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez 

Krenz was appointed as a warrant officer in1992 after completing the Warrant Officer Candidate Course at Fort McCoy, and served as a military personnel technician in both the Headquarters State Area Command and 232nd Personnel Services Company.

In February 2009, he mobilized for active duty with the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team and served in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Upon his return, he rejoined Joint Force Headquarters and was selected as the command chief warrant officer for the Wisconsin Army National Guard where he serves as the principal advisor to the adjutant general on Warrant Officer policy, career management and assignments.

1265 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Coastguardsmen

With the addition of Sergeant Patrick Thibeault’s book My Journey as a Combat Medic from Desert Storm to Operation Enduring Freedom, Military-Writers.com now lists 1265 U.S. Military Servicemembers who have authored 3986 books.


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Patrick Thibeault, USA

Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia

The November 17, 2011, episode of American Heroes Radio features a conversation with Chief Warrant Officer Marc Yablonka, CSMR, the author of Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

Program Date: November 17, 2011
Program Time: 1500 hours, PACIFIC
Topic: Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2011/11/17/distant-war-recollections-of-vietnam-laos-and-cambodia

About the Guest
Chief Warrant Officer Marc Yablonka, CSMR, “is a graduate of the Professional Writing School of the University of Southern California. He served as a Public Affairs Officer (CWO-2) with the 40th Infantry Division Support Brigade and the Installation Support Group, California State Military Reserve, at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos, California, between 2001 and 2008. He also served with the Sar-El unit of the Israeli Defense Forces. Marc Yablonka is the author of Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.”

According to the book description of Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, “This is a newly-edited compilation of eighteen years of Yablonka’s reportage on American involvement in Indochina and the people affected by America’s connection to that part of the world. After all those years and numerous articles about an indelible mark on American history published in the likes of the U.S. Military’s Stars and Stripes, Army Times, American Veteran, the Weider History Group publication Vietnam Magazine and others, these stories needed a wider audience for the world to know what they suffered, how most survived, and how they overcame adversity. Distant War: Recollections of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, will be the vehicle to the reader’s understanding of a war and its aftermath that may seem distant now, but what is important is that it will make readers realize—if they haven’t already—that in war, whether in the jungles of Vietnam or the sands of Iraq, in a very real sense, while who wins and who loses is obviously important, what is equally necessary is that good somehow must and shall prevail.”

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, law enforcement technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2011/11/17/distant-war-recollections-of-vietnam-laos-and-cambodia

Listen from the Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/distant_war.html

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530