Panetta Says U.S. Unwavering in Support of South Korea

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2011 – Officials across government have collectively conveyed America’s unwavering commitment to South Korea, Defense Department officials said today.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta spoke with South Korean Defense Minister Kim Kwan-jin about the death of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il in a 15-minute telephone call this morning, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.

“The secretary conveyed to Mr. Kim the strong commitment of the United States to peninsular stability and to our alliance,” he said. “He made it clear that the United States stands with Korea in this time of uncertainty.”

Little stressed there has been no increase in force protection for U.S. forces in Korea and that there is “no truth” to rumors that U.S. families would be evacuated.

No unusual military movements connected with the death of Kim Jong-il have been detected, Little said. There are 36,000 U.S. service members based in South Korea.

The two defense leaders agreed that it is critical for both countries to remain prudent with respect to all matters related to the security posture on the peninsula. Both promised to consult often in the days and weeks ahead.

U.S. officials would not comment on an announcement from North Korean officials that Kim’s son, Kim Jong-eun, will take over the isolated country.

“I wouldn’t comment on the particulars of succession at this stage,” Little said. “Obviously, we are closely monitoring the succession process. The North Koreans are in a period of mourning at this point, and that being said, the military does exercise a prominent role in North Korea, but I wouldn’t want to speculate at this stage.”

U.S. and South Korean officials believe that a North Korean missile test conducted earlier today was pre-planned and not connected to Kim’s death, a senior Pentagon official said on background.

Panetta was briefed on Kim’s death immediately after word reached the outside world last weekend, Little said.

“He has been closely monitoring the situation ever since,” the press secretary said. “He has been in contact with senior officials here in the department.”

Dempsey: DOD to Stay Engaged, Vigilant in Middle East

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT  – It’s too soon to calculate how the end of U.S. Forces Iraq will affect the region’s military dynamics, but the U.S. focus on the Middle East and its partner countries there is unwavering, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey is traveling with a USO holiday tour and taking time to meet with his counterparts and officials in several countries, including Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan.

“Right now I think there are concerns, maybe some that would rise to a level of skepticism about the future [in the region],” he told reporters who are traveling with him.

“But I think that’s why our presence here is so important,” the chairman said, “to help ease those concerns and reduce that skepticism.”

Dempsey added, “We’ve got to make sure we maintain our vigilance, our deterrence and our engagement in the Middle East.”

The focus for the Defense Department in 21 countries that make up the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility include Afghanistan, Iran and its nuclear aspirations, and regional instability associated with the Arab Spring, the revolutionary wave of protests and violence that erupted Dec. 18, 2010.

The unrest most recently includes a nationwide revolt in Syria, with protesters demanding the resignation of President Bashar al-Assad and the government responding with deadly violence, which according to the United Nations this week has so far taken nearly 5,000 lives.

“We're trying to think ahead about what it will mean to the people when the regime in Syria changes, as we think it will,” Dempsey said.

Related to that, he added, “is the enduring relationship with Turkey and their role. They’re a [U.S. European Command] nation from our perspective but they currently have a positive influence in that part of the Arab world.”

Iran is another critical defense challenge in the region, the chairman said.

“Iran continues to be provocative both in terms of its nuclear aspirations but also the activities of the [Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps] Quds Force,” which is said to responsible for operations outside Iran, Dempsey said.

The most recent manifestation of such provocation, he added, was a plot uncovered in October that involved Iranian officials and Iranian-American used car salesman Mansour J. Arbabsiar’s botched attempt to hire assassins to kill Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States.

For DOD, the chairman said, the challenge is “Iran’s hegemonic aspirations and how we can build a consensus within the region and globally that this is unacceptable, and then [determine] what to do about it.”

The U.S. presence in the Middle East is an especially important buffer to the challenge with Iran, Dempsey said, adding, “I do believe that what Iran needs to see in this region is a more coherent Arab world, so their aspirations are tempered.”

But of all the challenges in the region, Afghanistan is a primary focus.

“That’s No. 1 because we have kids in harm’s way,” Dempsey said. “That’s always going to be job No. 1.”

The department is working to review its strategy in Afghanistan with Centcom Commander Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis, Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan and U.S. Forces Afghanistan, and others, the chairman added.

“We know the surge [of combat troops to Afghanistan] will be off-ramped in September 2012,” he said. “That’s when we’re back to the 68,000 [troops] that was kind of the standard at the start.

“The question we’re grappling with is, given the Lisbon objectives, how do we get from September 2012 to December 2014?”

In November 2010 in Lisbon, Portugal, NATO leaders agreed to halt combat operations by international troops in Afghanistan by the end of 2014.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai and U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon attended the summit of leaders who crafted a transition strategy directing coalition troops to begin this year turning over security responsibility for the nation’s provinces to Afghan security forces.

“What we aspire to over time is to approach the entire issue of engagement differently,” Dempsey said, adding that there are opportunities for the U.S. military services in smaller engagements.

“Most countries don’t want us to be flopping a brigade combat team in and among their population, so I think we have to find a way to think that through too,” the chairman said.

“It’s really about what we have learned in the last 10 years [of war], and how to establish new relationships not only in [the Middle East], but worldwide.”

Fleet Survey Team Completes Barbados Survey Operation

From U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (NNS) -- An eight-member U.S. Navy Fleet Survey Team (FST) departed Bridgetown, Barbados Dec. 16, after completing a month-long survey operation.

The FST is a rapid-response team with capabilities to conduct quick-turnaround hydrographic surveys anywhere in the world.

This survey was specifically requested by U.S. 4th Fleet (C4F) after reports from ships in the fleet had reported discrepancies in depths between printed and digital charts, and their own fathometers.

"The primary survey area was within a deepwater harbor where numerous cruise ships moor," said Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Greeson, senior military officer for the FST. "The deepwater harbor is also the main commercial shipping port. At one time, there were four cruise ships, three commercial vessels, a Dominican Navy ship, and two tugboats all in harbor."

Using a nine meter rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) called "Swamp Fox", the survey team towed a RESON 7125 multibeam sonar system through four different designated priority areas. After data collection was completed in an area it was processed in the field to determine if there were any gaps in coverage or areas that needed additional sonar coverage in order to meet international standards.

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is the authoritative worldwide hydrographic body that sets the standards for hydrographic surveys to ensure maritime safety in coastal environments.

"We are seeking to meet IHO standards for coverage and accuracy," said Greeson. "The IHO requires a full seafloor search in order to meet those standards. The data we collect will then be used to update nautical charts used by all sorts of vessels coming into the harbor."

The FST, part of the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), conducts about 14 surveys a year around the world. The team uses the Chief of Naval Operations' priority Oceanographic, Hydrographic and Bathymetric (OHB) list, and requests from component commanders like U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (USNAVSO) to determine where and when they will conduct their surveys. The surveys aid in the safe navigation of U.S. forces and civilian vessels traversing the area.

NAVOCEANO collects and analyzes global ocean and littoral data to provide specialized, operationally significant products and services for military and civilian, national and international customers.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and C4F support U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

Panetta Promises Continued Support to Libya

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

TRIPOLI, Libya  – Paying tribute to the courage and determination of the Libyan people, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta joined Libyan leaders Saturday in welcoming a new chapter in U.S.-Libyan relations.

Panetta, who made history as the first defense secretary to visit here, said during a joint news conference with Prime Minister Abd al-Raheem al-Keeb that he’s proud of the role the United States played in helping free Libya from Moammar Gadhafi’s regime.

“Even though Operation Unified Protector has ended, I want to stress that the United States … will continue to stand by the Libyan people,” he said, U.S. and Libyan flags behind him.

“To that end” he said, “we are looking forward to building a close partnership with the Libyan government and we stand ready to offer … assistance in the spirit of friendship and the spirit of mutual respect.”

Panetta noted that yesterday the United States lifted most of the sanctions on the Libyan government and released all government and central bank funds within U.S. jurisdiction.

This amounts to about $30 billion. Panetta said the United States didn’t want these funds falling into Gadhafi’s hands, but said he now hopes they will be released soon. “These funds belong to the Libyan people and will now be returned to Libya,” he said.

That means the Libyan government can now access most of its worldwide holdings as the country moves forward with reconstruction and transition.

The secretary said he made clear during his meetings here today with al-Keeb and Defense Minister Usama Al-Jwayli that the United States stands ready to offer security assistance cooperation when the new government identifies its needs.

“I believe that this new and free Libya can become an important security partner of the United States,” he said.

A bloody eight-month civil war now behind it, Libya is now in the hands of the Libyan people, the secretary said, and they will chart their future. “They will determine what assistance they require from the United States and the international community,” he said.

The talks did not get into specific forms of support, he told reporters, re-emphasizing that the United States is willing to provide “whatever assistance Libya believes it needs.”

Panetta offered a message to the Libyan people: “The blood that you have spilled has earned you the right to determine your future, to work through the security challenges that you are going to confront.”

Difficult challenges inevitably will be ahead, he recognized. Libya will need to secure weapons stockpiles, confront terrorism, professionalize the army and police, and develop the institutions of a free, representative government.

It also will have to unify the revolutionary forces, an effort Panetta said he feels confident that Libya is taking the right steps to do.

Al-Keeb said he plans to unveil solid programs soon that will attract Libya’s “freedom fighters” and direct their efforts toward fighting now for a better future for Libya.

“It’s not a matter of just saying, ‘Put down your guns and go back to work,’” he said.

Panetta noted that the United States, too, experienced revolution and expressed hope that Libya will continue on its current path to enjoy a future of peace, prosperity and freedom.

“This will be a long and difficult transition, but I have confidence that you will succeed in realizing the dream of a representative government and a more secure and prosperous future,” he said.

Al-Keeb said the unfolding of the “Arab spring” in other parts of the region influenced Libya’s revolution, and said they all share the same aspirations of dignity, freedom and respect for human rights.

Panetta emphasized that there’s no rubber-stamp solution to how each country will advance its efforts to put the institutions of government and representative democracy in place.

What’s important, he said, is that each country makes sure it is responding to “what the people want.”

Al-Keeb called the changes these revolutions have brought about “one good sign of why democracy in the Middle East is something everybody needs to support and stand by.”

As he traveled from the airport to the defense ministry for today’s meetings, Panetta passed reminders of Libya’s past and its appreciation for a new future. Graffiti scribbled on a concrete wall surrounding Gadhafi’s damaged former compound declared, simply, “Thanx US/UK.”

National Guard, Bostwana Defence Force share military intelligence practices for successful missions

By Maj. Matthew Handley
North Carolina National Guard

GABORONE, Botswana  – Two U.S. generals led a team of four other seasoned intelligence and operations officers to meet with the top leaders of the Botswana Defence Force during the AFRICOM Sponsored Intelligence Operations Seminar here.

The seminar was highlighted by the presence of Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Lusk, the adjutant general of the North Carolina National Guard and former commander of the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, and Army Maj. Gen. Edward Leacock a Maryland National Guard officer and the former Deputy J2 at AFRICOM (Africa Command)now assigned to the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency.

They were joined by Army Col. Andrew Frank, chief of the Theater Intelligence Group in Molesworth, England; Marine Col. Patrick Looney, the chief of Current Operations in the Logistics Directorate, AFRICOM; Army Lt. Col. Wes Morrison, the executive officer to the adjutant general of the NC NG; and Army Maj. Clay Jackson, former Intelligence officer for the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team of the NC NG's 2009 deployment to Iraq.

They all shared experiences of how the integration of military intelligence into operations led to successful mission accomplishments and how the U.S. military transitioned a standalone military intelligence apparatus to one that is fully integrated into all operations.

Leacock was working at AFRICOM in 2008 when BDF leadership met to discuss ideas of how they could share experiences. Since then, the BDF has been working diligently with the U.S. Office of Security Cooperation in Gaborone and AFRICOM to train and familiarize soldiers in the basics of intelligence as it relates to military operations.

"It was great for me to be here and see the effort that started several years ago with a vision and today the hard work of the BDF is coming to fruition as they move to improve on their capabilities." Leacock said.

He went on to describe how the U.S. military went through a restructuring of their intelligence force structure around thirty years ago and Leacock said he did not think it would take the BDF the same length of time it took U.S. forces to transition to the standards the U.S. has today.

Lusk observed similarities in BDF current operations to his time as the 30th HBCT Commander in Iraq.

"I see a lot of parallels to the types of operations the BDF conducts and our own counter-insurgency operations in Iraq," Lusk said. "I am honored to be able to engage the senior leadership of the BDF on this topic and believe it will only enhance our State Partnership with Botswana."

The seminar discussions evoked questions from the BDF ground forces commander, air commander and others providing insight to their own experiences and wanting to understand how intelligence played a role in U.S. operations.

Wyatt, former Office of Security cooperation chief and now the Southern Africa Branch South -International Military Engagement Division chief at AFRICOM, helped lead the discussion with BDF assistant chief of staff for intelligence, Brig. Gen. Peter Magosi.

"It was professionally rewarding to have an opportunity to share U.S. operational and intelli-gence successes and failures from recent military operations with senior leadership of the U.S. and Botswana Defence Force," Wyatt said. "On a personnel note it was wonderful for me to once again work with the BDF, one the most professional militaries on the continent."

Following the seminar portion of the event, the delegation had the chance to visit the Basic Tactical Intelligence Course, the Peace Support Training Center, conducted a panel discussion with field grade officers students at the Defence Command and Staff College and visit with troops in the field in southeast Botswana.

Their final day was capped off by participating in the graduation of students from BTIC.

The U.S. Office of Security Cooperation and Botswana have a full calendar of over 20 events for the coming year on a range of subjects to include a hosting the Southern Accord 12 Exercise in August.

USS New Orleans Sailors, Marines Visit Starfish Learning Center in Cambodia

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Gabriel Owens, USS New Orleans Public Affairs

SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia (NNS) -- Sailors from amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), along with Marines from the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), visited the Starfish Learning Center in Sihanoukville, Cambodia for a community service project, Dec. 19.

Service members applied a fresh coat of paint to the school and spent time teaching the children American games like "duck, duck goose" and "red rover."

Lt. Paul Armstrong, New Orleans' chaplain, said the event was one of five projects the crew of "Big Easy" will participate to bolster U.S. relations during theater security cooperation exercises with Cambodia.

"The children were a little awkward with the new games," said Armstrong. "But kids are kids; they picked up the games quickly and enthusiastically."

As soon as they arrived, the Sailors and Marines were greeted by the children at the school who were anxious to practice their English.

"It was pretty cool," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Joseph Gossey. "The kids were happy to see us and it was interesting seeing how they teach school here."

After two hours, the Sailors and Marines packed up the paint, said goodbye to the children and left with smiles on their faces.

"I had a lot of fun," said Staff Sgt. Reynaldo Desenganio from the 11th MEU. "It's always great to see happy kids when you're away from your own on deployment."

New Orleans deployed Nov. 14 in support of the nation's maritime strategy and is currently conducting theater security cooperation missions in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR).

New Orleans, amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), along with the embarked 11th MEU, make up the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG).

The mission of the Makin Island ARG is to help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the seas and provide humanitarian/disaster response as well as supporting the nation's maritime strategy when forward deployed.

The 7th Fleet AOR includes more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans, stretching from the international date line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

More than half of the world's population lives within the 7th Fleet AOR. In addition, more than 80 percent of that population lives within 500 miles of the oceans, which means this is an inherently maritime region.

U.S.-South Korean Consults Follow Kim’s Death

By Cheryl Pellerin and Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2011 – U.S. officials are carefully watching the situation on the Korean Peninsula in the wake of news that North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il has died.

Kim died Saturday of a massive heart attack, according to a North Korean government release. Kim Jong-eun, the “Dear Leader’s” youngest son, is expected to replace him.

President Barack Obama consulted with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak last night. They discussed the situation on the Korean Peninsula following the death of Kim Jong-il, according to a White House read-out of the call.

“The president reaffirmed the United States’ strong commitment to the stability of the Korean Peninsula and the security of our close ally, the Republic of Korea,” according to the read out. “The two leaders agreed to stay in close touch as the situation develops and agreed they would direct their national security teams to continue close coordination.”

U.S. leaders have been in constant contact with South Korean and Japanese allies since Kim’s death was announced, White House spokesman Jay Carney said.

Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters traveling with him in Germany that the allies have not seen any change “in North Korean behavior of a nature that would alarm us.”

Speaking broadly, the general said he is concerned about the transition, but there have been no changes to the alert readiness for U.S. forces on the peninsula. South Korean officials announced their armed forces are on a higher level of alert.

U.S. and South Korean leaders quickly established a network “to discuss this issue and to determine what we could do to contribute to understanding what might happen next,” Dempsey said.

“It is my expectation … that he will be the successor,” the chairman said. “We’ve gone to significant effort to understand, and I would only say at this point that he is young to be put in this position and we will have to see if it, in fact, is him and how he reacts to the burden of governance that he hasn’t had to deal with before.”

Kim Jong-il took over from his father Kim Il-sung in 1994. It was the first case of a son taking over for a father in a communist nation. In 2010, he announced his youngest son would succeed him.

North Korea has developed nuclear weapons and missile technology, U.S. officials have said. It is a pariah among nations in that it has actively sought to export nuclear and missile technology even as up to a million North Koreans are believed to have starved to death.

Obama: Nation Should Emulate Troops’ Service, Sacrifice

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON  – The American military exhibits the best the country has to offer, President Barack Obama said in his weekly address today.

The last U.S. service members are leaving Iraq after almost nine years of combat. They leave a country and citizenry that has a chance to chart its own course in a tough neighborhood.

More than 1.5 million Americans served in Iraq and tens of thousands have been wounded. “Military families have sacrificed greatly -- none more so than the families of those nearly 4,500 Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice,” the president said. “All of them -- our troops, veterans and their families -- will always have the thanks of a grateful nation.”

A safe and stable Iraq with a democratically elected government is an incredible achievement, and it was made possible through the hard work and sacrifices of the American military.

And that military has lessons for the American people. Surveys show the military is the most respected institution in America. “[Service members] don’t see themselves or each other as Democrats first or Republicans first,” Obama said. “They see themselves as Americans first.

“For all our differences and disagreements, they remind us that we are all a part of something bigger; that we are one nation and one people,” the president continued. “And for all our challenges, they remind us that there is nothing we can’t do when we stick together.”

There are 2.2 million Americans in uniform today. Some will remain in the military to serve, while many others will leave and become veterans. Those men and women will continue to serve in their communities.

“After years of rebuilding Iraq, it is time to enlist our veterans and all our people in the work of rebuilding America,” Obama said.

The generation that defeated fascism came home to build the largest middle class in history. They developed computers, built the interstate highway system, faced down communism and put a man on the moon. The 9/11 generation of veterans “is armed with the skills, discipline and leadership to attack the defining challenge of our time: rebuilding an economy where hard work pays off, where responsibility is rewarded, where anyone can make it if they try,” the president said.

Obama called on elected representatives to emulate the military’s spirit, determination and sacrifice. “This cannot be a country where division and discord stand in the way of our progress,” he said. “This is a moment where we must come together to ensure that every American has the chance to work for a decent living, own their own home, send their kids to college and secure a decent retirement.

“This is a moment for us to build a country that lives up to the ideals that so many of our bravest Americans have fought and even died for. That is our highest obligation as citizens. That is the welcome home that our troops deserve.”

America's war in Iraq is over.

Panetta Pays Tribute to Fallen Sailors in Tripoli

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

TRIPOLI, Libya  – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta paused during his historic visit here to lay a wreath on the graves of U.S. sailors lost aboard the USS Intrepid more than 200 years ago.

Panetta, the first defense secretary to set foot in Libya, walked quietly into the tranquil courtyard overlooking Tripoli Harbor, where about two dozen gravestones surrounded an olive tree.

Flanked by Army Gen. Carter Ham, commander of U.S. Africa Command, the secretary paused in front of one of the gravesites to bow his head in reflection and prayer. After a moment of silence, he crossed his heart and placed one of his personal coins on the gravestone’s base.

The secretary said he felt honored to pay respects to heroes of the United States’ first overseas wars, interred in Tripoli’s Protestant cemetery.

The crew aboard the Intrepid was on a mission Sept. 4, 1804, to destroy pirate ships moored in Tripoli harbor during the First Barbary War (against the Barbary pirates) when their vessel exploded.

Navy Lt. Richard Somers, its commander, and his dozen officers and sailors were killed.

“These brave sailors from the Intrepid, who died in the service of their country, have our nation’s enduring respect and gratitude,” the secretary said in a statement released after today’s visit.

“Having sailed into harm’s way to secure our nation’s interests, they volunteered for a dangerous mission and paid the ultimate price,” he said. “Their courage, and that of their fallen sailors and Marines, have forever emblazoned the shores of Tripoli in our nation’s conscience.”

The remains were moved to their current location in 1949, and the site underwent a major renovation that was completed in January, just before Libya’s revolution began.

Panetta expressed appreciation that despite differences in U.S.-Libyan relations over the years, the Libyan people have maintained the cemetery with the respect and honor it deserves and designated it a protected historic property.

The United States looks forward to working with the Libyans “to ensure that this very special place remains an honored and protected landmark for both of our nations,” he said.

Panetta called the Libyan people’s efforts to restore the cemetery “a symbol of the values we share, including an appreciation of the need to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of a cause greater than ourselves.”

He reflected on the thousands of Libyans who gave their lives for Libya’s liberation as well. “They sacrificed so that Libya and her people could have a new era of hope and opportunity,” he said. “Because of their sacrifices, the torch of freedom burns brightly here in Libya.”

The 2012 Defense Authorization Act, as passed by the House in December, includes a provision that requires the Defense Department to begin the process of identifying and returning Somers and his sailors to the United States.

Specifically, the bill instructs the secretaries of defense and the Navy to report back to Congress on the feasibility of recovering and positively identifying the missing commandos.

Seabees Honored in El Salvador during Southern Partnership Station 2012

By Spc. Jennifer Grier, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command & U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

LA UNION, El Salvador (NNS) -- A recognition ceremony was held Dec. 15, at Centro Escolar Gregorio Alvarez Nunez in honor of U.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 23 Seabees embarked aboard High Speed Vessel (HSV 2) Swift.

The ceremony was held in appreciation for the completion of a seven-day construction project as part of HSV-Southern Partnership Station 2012 (HSV-SPS 12).

"This ceremony was a great opportunity to bring everyone together and gives a real chance for the communities of El Salvador to interact," said Samuel Iglesias, La Union's representative to the Minister of Education. "This ceremony honors something really wonderful for everyone, especially the kids."

This project was led by project manager Utilities Man 1st Class Patrick Koelle. The team of Seabees completed minor electrical repairs, renovated the school kitchen and an outdoor pavilion, and performed structural and aesthetic maintenance at the site. Seabees painted a basketball backboard and built steps to the basketball court, making a safer environment for the children.

"To see how grateful the teachers and administrators are is really rewarding," said Koelle. "It makes this job all worth it, and I'm very proud of how it all turned out in the end. This shows the hard work my team put into this and leaves a lasting impact with the school that we can all remember."

The team refurbished the school kitchen by building and repairing walls, adding a new roof, and installing a sink, stove vent and brick cooking area. Two-hundred feet of piping was also placed to service the new kitchen sink.

Ricardo Jimenez, the school's principal, attended the ceremony.

"My favorite part of this whole thing is to see a positive response within my community," said Jimenez. "Giving brand new facilities to my school built by U.S. service members, is really an amazing thing to be a part of and upon seeing the final product, I know this will provide for generations to come."

This is the first of two Seabee projects in El Salvador, where U.S. Seabees have been working closely with Salvadoran service members who specialize in construction.

The construction project is one event during the three-week HSV-SPS 12 partnership with El Salvador. Service members from each of the armed services are working with the host nation partners, exchanging information regarding medical and veterinary practices, small unit leadership, and port security.

Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of U.S. ships to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility in the Caribbean, Central and South America. The mission's primary goal is information sharing with partner nation service members and civilians in the region.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) support U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

Face of Defense: Ballerinas Perform in ‘The Nutcracker’

By Army Sgt. Chris Harper
82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs Office

FORT BRAGG, N.C., Dec. 16, 2011 – Many of the 60 dancers who perform in a local production of “The Nutcracker” ballet are the daughters of service members stationed here.

The ballet, performed by the North Carolina State Ballet troupe, has in recent weeks entertained thousands at the Crown Center in nearby Fayetteville.

Ashley Watters, daughter of the 82nd Airborne Division’s chaplain, Army Lt. Col. Jeff Watters, who is now deployed to Afghanistan, has danced ballet for more than 11 years. This is her second seasonal appearance in the state ballet’s “Nutcracker” production.

Ashley began her dancing journey right here.

“I began dancing at a little place on-post at Tolson Youth Center,” Ashley said.

Erin Rafferty, 11, daughter of Lt. Col. John Rafferty, commander of the 1st Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, has danced with the state ballet troupe for nearly two years.

Erin also played multiple roles in the “Nutcracker” production, including the head mouse, a child and as one of the clowns, which she admits was her favorite.

“I liked doing all of the cartwheels!” Erin said.

Erin’s father said he was impressed with the ballet troupe’s performance on Dec. 4.

“I got to be backstage tonight, and what I didn’t realize was how everything runs so precisely,” said Rafferty, noting he’d expected that backstage goings-on would be more hectic. But operations, he noted, went like clockwork, and the performers knew where to be, and when to change their costumes.

Also featured in “The Nutcracker” performance, which was directed and choreographed by Charlotte Blume, was Anne Talkington, 17, an 11-year member of the North Carolina State Ballet, and the daughter of Mark Talkington, a retired Army colonel.

“It was getting the opportunity to perform with the “Prince” from the Carolina Ballet in Raleigh,” Anne said about the evening’s highlight for her. “He’s professional.”

Sarah Middleton, 13, daughter of Lt. Col. Dan Middleton of the XVIII Airborne Corps based at Fort Bragg, danced the ‘Spanish Variation’ and the ‘Waltz of the Flowers’. Smiling following the opening show, Sarah said her dancing was enhanced by the adrenaline rush she received by performing in front of friends and family.

Paris Sullivan and Lauryn Meehl, both age 11, and Rebekah St. Cyr, 13, account for more than 18 years of dance experience between them. Each is the daughter of Fort Bragg soldiers and each danced to the delight of the audience.

USS Miami Returns From Five-Month Deployment

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The families of Sailors assigned to the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Miami (SSN 755) received an early holiday gift this year when the submarine returned to Naval Submarine Base New London, Dec. 15, following a regularly scheduled five-month deployment.

Miami, which departed for deployment July 14, conducted maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Commanded by Cmdr. Roger Meyer, Miami visited ports in Haakonsvern, Norway; Faslane, Scotland; Portsmouth, England and Rota, Spain.

"The entire crew of USS Miami fully embraced their role as ambassadors for our Navy and country," said Meyer, a native of Blue Grass, Iowa, who assumed command of USS Miami in September 2010.

Throughout their deployment, the crew fine-tuned their skill sets, becoming true undersea warriors.

"Our team integrated the talents of multiple commands into one cohesive team, developing undersea warriors with the skills necessary to be competent and disciplined operators and maintainers while executing missions vital to national security," said Meyer.

Recognizing their contributions to the submarine force, several crew members aboard Miami were advanced to the next rank and earned warfare qualifications during a ceremony on Nov. 30 while in port Portsmouth, England.

During that ceremony, five Sailors received their enlisted submarine warfare qualification pins, and eight others were advanced to the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the historic British Royal Navy ship HMS Victory, which is the oldest commissioned warship in the world.

Other Sailors had reasons to celebrate. During their deployment seven babies were born. One of the lucky fathers was Senior Chief Electrician's Mate Ryan Rolfe, who was able to hold his three-month old son, Joseph, for the first time.

During the Miami's deployment, Rolfe's wife Lillian was chosen to participate in a group baby shower with 19 other military wives. The event, sponsored by the non-profit organization Operation Shower and Birdies for the Brave, marked the first time it was held in Connecticut and for wives of submariners.

"As military spouses, we forget how different our lives are. We are used to having an empty bed to crawl into and end of the day, making big decisions, planning birthday parties, attending school events, and finding housing on our own," said Rolfe.

USS Miami Ombudsman April Holtmeyer, a mother of two, expressed her excitement for the reunion of Sailors and their families, as well as the remaining crew members just in time for the holidays.

"Holiday Homecomings add an extra special sense of reunion. Our families exemplified strength during this deployment by utilizing the greatest asset - each other. This sisterhood was essential in the success of maintaining normal," said Holtmeyer.

As the Sailors departed the submarine and reunited with their families, the fathers recognized their children by presenting them with medals as a token of their appreciation.

With nearly 50 percent of the 134-member crew aboard Miami being married with children, support for families had new meaning for the deployed fathers, said USS Miami Family Readiness Group President Christy Thomas, a mother of two.

"The kids are the heroes in their dads' eyes because they have thrived in their daily lives while they have been gone," said Thomas.

During the submarine's deployment, Thomas, Holtmeyer and other wives coordinated with the non-profit organization Operation Gratitude to receive gift boxes. More than 150 children of the deployed Sailors were recognized during National Military Family Appreciation Month, which occurs in November every year.

Miami's family-focused homecoming included Santa riding aboard Miami as the submarine pulled into Naval Submarine Base New London. In addition, the Steve Elci & Friends band performed, a first for the Connecticut performers, best known for writing the song, "Submarine Town."

The submarine, built by Newport News Shipbuilding and General Dynamics Electric Boat Division, is the third Navy vessel to bear the name of the city of Miami, Florida. The submarine's crew compliment includes 133 officers and enlisted Sailors.

Miami's return was preceeded by Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Dallas (SSN 700) Dec. 14.

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

By April Phillips, Naval Safety Center Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- A nationwide crackdown on impaired driving led by the Department of Transportation is timed to reduce the number of alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes during the holiday season.

The campaign, known as "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," will run through Jan. 2 and will involve thousands of law enforcement officers across the country.

Nationwide there has been a reduction in alcohol-related crashes and fatalities. This positive trend is also evident in the Navy, where alcohol-related incidents have been declining for several years.

Nonetheless, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 10,228 people were killed by drunk drivers in 2010, including 415 during the second half of December alone.

The campaign's timing is purposeful. There are many opportunities for Sailors to over imbibe during the holiday season.

"It could be the result of family get-togethers or command parties," said Dan Dray, a traffic safety specialist at the Naval Safety Center. "Either way, it's important to plan for a safe ride home."

He also said that it's important to make that plan before taking the first sip of alcohol. The best of intentions can fall apart as alcohol impairs judgment.

"Young service members may be at increased risk for driving impaired," Dray said. "Many are away from home for the first time and may be unaware of their personal alcohol limits."

"We know that the young Sailors are going to go out and have fun, but the biggest asset they have in terms of safety is their peers. Everyone carries a cell phone these days, so if you've had too much to drink, call a friend to come pick you up or take advantage of the safe ride programs that many ships offer," Dray said.

These safe ride programs are usually sponsored by a command's Morale, Welfare and Recreation department. They involve "no questions asked" rides back to the ship and Dray said there is no punishment for using the service.

"The only thing is you'll be asked to pay the taxi bill later," he said. "It's a lot cheaper than the fines, lawyer bills, community service, and career ramifications that come with a DUI charge."

Drunk driving doesn't just affect one Sailor and his or her career. The ramifications ripple through the unit and the surrounding community.

"When a shipmate is lost, it's not just a military member," said Bonnie Revell, also a traffic safety specialist. "That person is also a father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter."

Revell has also talked to members of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and said she's seen the anguish in the faces of those who have lost children as a result of an intoxicated driver.

"The heartbreak is intense. Knowing they will never hear 'I love you' again, or that they will never have grandchildren because they lost their only child. It's just devastating," she said.

She said that Sailors who are pulled over for DUI during the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign are actually the lucky ones. While they may face severe personal and professional ramifications, those are mild in comparison to what could have happened - a crash killing themselves or an innocent motorist.

Writing Therapy to Foster Wounded Warriors’ Recovery

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

BETHESDA, MD.  – At a major medical center where troops are healing from the most severe of traumatic brain injuries and psychological issues, officials are adding a key ingredient to their comprehensive care: expressive writing workshops.

Announced Dec. 13 at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, on the campus of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center here, the center has partnered with the National Endowment for the Arts’ Operation Homecoming for a yearlong pilot program that’s slated to begin in January, said Navy Rear Adm. (Dr.) Alton L. Stocks, the medical center’s commander.

"Through our arts program, we’ve been able to measure the impact the arts has had on our troops who have unique and complex health conditions,” said Stocks, who also is commander of Navy Medicine National Capital Area.

The Operation Homecoming writing instructor will be Ron Capps, a 25-year veteran Army officer and founder of the Veterans Writing Project for veterans, active and reserve military members, and military family members.

At the NICoE, however, Capps’ newest project will focus on service members’ traumatic war experiences. He’ll use “expressive writing” to help them deal with that trauma through writing stories, in journals and even poetry.

Capps’ goal, based on his lengthy military career, is to get the troops to confront their fears and learn to cope with them. A central focus of his writing career includes care for returning veterans, particularly those in need of mental health care, and writing as therapy.

“Writing [allows you] to take a memory that might be stuck in the back of your mind, make it physical and shape it,” he explained. “Eventually you understand it’s a memory and it can’t hurt you anymore.”

Health conditions such as traumatic brain injuries and psychological health issues are now known as the “signature wounds” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, officials said. The NICoE’s healing program is for active-duty service members with these signature wounds who might return to duty.

The writing workshop, as part of the overall healing protocol at NICoE, is expected to complement the center’s existing arts programs, which also encourage troops to express themselves by making masks and montage creations, and through music programs.

When service members leave NICoE treatment, the writing doesn’t necessarily stop there. The partnership, with help from Boeing Co., will offer an optional four-week writing program for troops and their families at the medical center’s Fisher House. Fisher House provides temporary homes to family members so they can stay near their injured or ill loved ones as they recover in the hospital or a rehab center.

“Art is fundamental to health and to humanity,” said Rocco Landsman, NEA chairman, here yesterday.

Landsman said in addition to the NICoE partnership, the NEA has begun a related task force with the Health and Human Services Department.

There, he said, “joint forces of more than a dozen health and research agencies and departments will push for more and better research on the arts and human development.”

Following the 2012 pilot phase, Operation Homecoming at NICoE will be assessed for potential replication at other rehabilitation centers around the country, Stocks said.

Reflecting on a recent healing arts summit at the medical center, Stocks recalled the response of military officials, medical and therapy professionals, and wounded warriors when asked about “the relevancy” of arts in the NICoE program.

"The bottom line is creative solutions and innovative thinking are the way forward," Stocks said of the group consensus.

Navy Updates Purple Heart Award Policy

From Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In response to advances in the diagnosis and treatment of mild traumatic brain injuries, the secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) discussed updates to the standards and procedures for awarding the Purple Heart Dec. 15, one of the military's most recognized awards.

"In light of recent research, military neurologists have discovered the scope of mild traumatic brain injuries is wider than previously thought," said SECNAV Ray Mabus. "Wounds suffered while defending our nation, whether seen or unseen, deserve our utmost gratitude and respect."

The standards provided in the ALNAV message are consistent with historic standards and previous awards of the Purple Heart since World War II, when the award was first authorized for the Navy and Marine Corps.

"Sailors and Marines may be awarded the Purple Heart for certain mild traumatic brain injuries that were caused by enemy action" explained Jim Nierle, president, Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals. "If they suffered a loss of consciousness, or had to be given the disposition of 'not fit for full duty' by a medical officer for a period greater than 48 hours after a concussive event, they may qualify for the Purple Heart."

Purple Hearts awarded for MTBI will continue to meet the historical standards of severity applied to all types of wounds, ensuring the prestige of the award is maintained. Applying these standards to MTBI, the concussive event must have been caused either directly or indirectly by an enemy action with intent to kill or maim.

To learn more about Purple Heart award standards and procedures, read ALNAV 079/11.