By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 17, 2007 – When the Girl Scouts combined their knack for selling cookies with their dedication to community service, they cooked up the Gift of Caring program. Each Girl Scout troop can choose a Gift of Caring partner to receive donated boxes of Thin Mints, Do-si-dos, Trefoils and other baked favorites throughout the cookie-selling season. Many girls of the 4,000 troops in the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital have chosen the United Service Organizations as their partner, encouraging customers to purchase additional cookies to be given to U.S. servicemembers.
"I think it makes soldiers feel good," Lexi Rhem, an 8-year-old member of Troop 652 in Springfield, Va., said. "One of the girls actually got a (thank you) letter back from a soldier."
Many GSCNC troops in the past have selected U.S. servicemembers as their Gift of Caring recipient, and this is Troop 652's third consecutive year.
Knowing that U.S. troops are serving their country abroad makes Lexi feel "safe, but kind of sad, because they're away from their families."
But giving the troops cookies can help them feel closer to home, she said.
"For little girls who hear a lot about what's going on in the world but don't have a direct connection, this is a great way to make a connection," Laura Basset, GSCNC product sales specialist, said. "It takes something that's abstract in their lives and makes it a little more concrete."
For older Scouts, giving cookies to U.S. troops is a way to learn civic responsibility, Pam Horton, USO volunteer coordinator and Girl Scout troop leader, said.
"The older girls had discussions about (troop deployment) and they said they wanted to do something to help," Horton said. "They got lots of thank yous and positive feedback from people who had taken the cookies over and distributed them. ... It made them feel good."
Washington-area Girl Scout troops donating to servicemembers will deliver the cookies in one of two ways: sending boxes abroad to deployed troops or handing servicemembers care packages at the USO International Gateway Lounge at Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.
"Our flagship lounge at BWI is 5,000 square feet, and it gets a lot of foot traffic," Horton said. "We make the cookies directly available to soldiers in the lounge who are deploying and returning.
"We usually take two or three girls to deliver care packages there, and I never have a problem filling those spots," she said.
The Gift of Caring is not just a great way to sell cookies, but it also instills a good lesson, Basset said.
"Part of the whole mission of Girl Scouts is service to community, service to country," Basset said. "So the (Girl Scout) troop gets the benefit from selling the cookies, but they're also doing it as service. Everybody wins."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have become authors by writing books.
Friday, January 19, 2007
General Officer Assignments
The Air Force chief of staff announces the assignments of the following general officers:
Brig. Gen. Charles W. Lyon, deputy director, programs, deputy chief of staff, strategic plans and programs, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C., to commander, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Air Combat Command, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar.
Brig. Gen. Robert M. Worley II, director, strategic plans, programs, analyses, assessments and lessons learned, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., to deputy director, programs, deputy chief of staff, strategic plans and programs, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Brig. Gen. Richard C. Harding, staff judge advocate, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley Air Force Base, Va., to commander, Air Force Legal Operating Agency, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.
Brig. Gen. Charles W. Lyon, deputy director, programs, deputy chief of staff, strategic plans and programs, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C., to commander, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Air Combat Command, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar.
Brig. Gen. Robert M. Worley II, director, strategic plans, programs, analyses, assessments and lessons learned, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., to deputy director, programs, deputy chief of staff, strategic plans and programs, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Brig. Gen. Richard C. Harding, staff judge advocate, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley Air Force Base, Va., to commander, Air Force Legal Operating Agency, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.
New U.S. Task Force Commander, Staff Prepare for Posting to Africa
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 18, 2007 – The new headquarters commander and staff for Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa are nearing the end of training before their posting to a region of vital strategic importance in the global war against terrorism. Navy Rear Adm. James M. Hart is slated to take command of the task force, which has its headquarters at Camp Lemonier, in Djibouti City, the capital of Djibouti, in early February.
Hart and his staff have been preparing for their one-year assignment in Africa since mid-October through specialized training provided by U.S. Joint Forces Command, in Suffolk, Va., Hart told reporters today during a phone interview from Suffolk. That training, he said, has included two trips to Africa.
Hart called the training for his new assignment "extraordinary" and said it stresses interagency cooperation and emphasizes diplomacy, defense and development.
"I think it's been very advantageous that I've been given the opportunity since mid-October to get out and about and go to places like the State Department and spend time with (the United States Agency for International Development) and learn the interagency process," Hart said.
As CJTF-HOA commander, Hart will command 1,800 to 2,000 U.S. soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, and coalition partners. The task force's area of responsibility covers operations in Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti and Ethiopia in Africa, and Yemen, on the Arabian Peninsula.
Hart said the task force's mission centers on conflict prevention, stability operations and helping countries develop good governance practices.
The United States' policy in Somalia is to help its citizens regain political and economic stability, to counter terrorism, and to provide humanitarian assistance, the admiral said.
"We are about helping Africans help themselves," Hart said, noting CJTF-HOA conducts joint military training and border security missions with the Ethiopian, Kenyan and other regional militaries.
Recent fighting in Somalia featured Islamic terrorists being defeated by moderate forces. That conflict "doesn't really change our mission or our objectives" in Somalia, Hart said.
The task force oversees a region that's vital to U.S. national security interests, Hart said. Offering a better life to people living in Africa and the Middle East is especially important because of the global war against terrorism, he said.
"We're arriving there early enough with an opportunity to help shape the environment, work towards a more secure environment, and hopefully, to allow people the opportunity to choose a direction to go in their lives that steers them away from extremism," Hart said. "And, that's what I think is one of our primary reasons for being there."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have become authors by writing books.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 18, 2007 – The new headquarters commander and staff for Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa are nearing the end of training before their posting to a region of vital strategic importance in the global war against terrorism. Navy Rear Adm. James M. Hart is slated to take command of the task force, which has its headquarters at Camp Lemonier, in Djibouti City, the capital of Djibouti, in early February.
Hart and his staff have been preparing for their one-year assignment in Africa since mid-October through specialized training provided by U.S. Joint Forces Command, in Suffolk, Va., Hart told reporters today during a phone interview from Suffolk. That training, he said, has included two trips to Africa.
Hart called the training for his new assignment "extraordinary" and said it stresses interagency cooperation and emphasizes diplomacy, defense and development.
"I think it's been very advantageous that I've been given the opportunity since mid-October to get out and about and go to places like the State Department and spend time with (the United States Agency for International Development) and learn the interagency process," Hart said.
As CJTF-HOA commander, Hart will command 1,800 to 2,000 U.S. soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, and coalition partners. The task force's area of responsibility covers operations in Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti and Ethiopia in Africa, and Yemen, on the Arabian Peninsula.
Hart said the task force's mission centers on conflict prevention, stability operations and helping countries develop good governance practices.
The United States' policy in Somalia is to help its citizens regain political and economic stability, to counter terrorism, and to provide humanitarian assistance, the admiral said.
"We are about helping Africans help themselves," Hart said, noting CJTF-HOA conducts joint military training and border security missions with the Ethiopian, Kenyan and other regional militaries.
Recent fighting in Somalia featured Islamic terrorists being defeated by moderate forces. That conflict "doesn't really change our mission or our objectives" in Somalia, Hart said.
The task force oversees a region that's vital to U.S. national security interests, Hart said. Offering a better life to people living in Africa and the Middle East is especially important because of the global war against terrorism, he said.
"We're arriving there early enough with an opportunity to help shape the environment, work towards a more secure environment, and hopefully, to allow people the opportunity to choose a direction to go in their lives that steers them away from extremism," Hart said. "And, that's what I think is one of our primary reasons for being there."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have become authors by writing books.
Murder in the big easy
Editors Note: Two of the writers are former military.
January 19, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) New Orleans swept onto the scene of Police-Writers.com with the addition of four new police officers. New Orleans area police officers added are John Dillmann, James Hurley, Brian Perry and James Colbert.
John Dillmann was a highly-decorated, veteran Homicide Detective for the New Orleans Police Department has written several true crime books. As an example, in “Deadly Weekend,” John tells the story of his investigation into the disappearance of Mark Sheppard, a 50-year-old M.D. from St. Petersburg, Florida. According to one reviewer, “With the discovery of the doctor's nude body, the case took a new and grisly turn which led down the treacherous streets of the Big Easy and into the darkest secrets of a respected physician described as 'a murder waiting to happen.”
Brian D. Perry Sr., was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He joined the New Orleans Police Department, obtained a Bachelor's Degree, and upon graduation with a Juris Doctor Degree, the Mayor of New Orleans selected him as the New Orleans Police Attorney. Activated during Desert Storm, he served as the Commandant of a large logistics command. Before redeploying back to the United States he was offered a position by a major oil company in Saudi Arabia to head their investigations unit. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve and was the Executive Officer for a Joint Command in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The American Community elected him to the School Board. After seven years in the Middle East, he returned to New Orleans to practice law.
His first novel is “Algiers Point.” According to the book description, “Nick Charbonnet is an honest cop with a beautiful wife and a seductive partner. He struggles with law school and his adulterous feelings. Then his world is shattered by a single phone call. The meeting that follows is the beginning of his involvement in a world he knows nothing about. Nick must make choices. Life changing choices. Good and evil live side by side and nowhere is it more apparent than in the Big Easy.”
Born and raised in Connecticut, James Hurley is a graduate of Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana and a 10-year veteran narcotics agent of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office. After moving to Florida, he worked in the financial industry for ten years as a stockbroker for 3 major wire houses. He currently lives in Cape Coral, Florida, where he spends most of his free time writing or on the golf course. In his 2004 book title “Gone,” “Former narcotics agent Sean Flynn must find Marcus Lowell, a professional money launderer and drug dealer under U.S. government protection. While making final preparations for one last drug deal, Lowell and his associates brutally murder a close friend of Flynn's on a remote Bahamian island and set into motion a number of events that will change Flynn's life forever. Flynn must return to the underworld of drug dealers and killers he left behind years ago. Its familiar territory, only this time the stakes are higher. His life is on the line-and he is no longer a cop.”
James Colbert served in the United States Marine Corps from 1970 to 1971. After his honorable discharge (E4), he would ultimately find his way to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office where he would serve as a Deputy Sheriff from 1976 to 1978. He has a Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Arkansas, and a BA from Louisiana State University. He is the author of five books. In his novel Skinny Man, Skinny “Skinny is a New Orleans police detective who is on suspension after wrecking yet another police car. While working an interim job as security policeman for his apartment complex, he becomes involved in an arson plot involving his sexy neighbor, unscrupulous real estate developers, and an intriguing woman named Ruth. Skinny is a quirky guy with a sense of humor and a habit of referring to himself in the third person.” Colbert’s other books are “Profit and Sheen,” “No Special Hurry,” “All I Have is Blue” and “God Bless The Child.”
Both Colbert and Perry were also added to www.military-writers.com, a website that lists current, retired and former military personnel who have written books. Police-Writers.com now hosts 263 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 667 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
January 19, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) New Orleans swept onto the scene of Police-Writers.com with the addition of four new police officers. New Orleans area police officers added are John Dillmann, James Hurley, Brian Perry and James Colbert.
John Dillmann was a highly-decorated, veteran Homicide Detective for the New Orleans Police Department has written several true crime books. As an example, in “Deadly Weekend,” John tells the story of his investigation into the disappearance of Mark Sheppard, a 50-year-old M.D. from St. Petersburg, Florida. According to one reviewer, “With the discovery of the doctor's nude body, the case took a new and grisly turn which led down the treacherous streets of the Big Easy and into the darkest secrets of a respected physician described as 'a murder waiting to happen.”
Brian D. Perry Sr., was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He joined the New Orleans Police Department, obtained a Bachelor's Degree, and upon graduation with a Juris Doctor Degree, the Mayor of New Orleans selected him as the New Orleans Police Attorney. Activated during Desert Storm, he served as the Commandant of a large logistics command. Before redeploying back to the United States he was offered a position by a major oil company in Saudi Arabia to head their investigations unit. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve and was the Executive Officer for a Joint Command in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The American Community elected him to the School Board. After seven years in the Middle East, he returned to New Orleans to practice law.
His first novel is “Algiers Point.” According to the book description, “Nick Charbonnet is an honest cop with a beautiful wife and a seductive partner. He struggles with law school and his adulterous feelings. Then his world is shattered by a single phone call. The meeting that follows is the beginning of his involvement in a world he knows nothing about. Nick must make choices. Life changing choices. Good and evil live side by side and nowhere is it more apparent than in the Big Easy.”
Born and raised in Connecticut, James Hurley is a graduate of Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana and a 10-year veteran narcotics agent of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office. After moving to Florida, he worked in the financial industry for ten years as a stockbroker for 3 major wire houses. He currently lives in Cape Coral, Florida, where he spends most of his free time writing or on the golf course. In his 2004 book title “Gone,” “Former narcotics agent Sean Flynn must find Marcus Lowell, a professional money launderer and drug dealer under U.S. government protection. While making final preparations for one last drug deal, Lowell and his associates brutally murder a close friend of Flynn's on a remote Bahamian island and set into motion a number of events that will change Flynn's life forever. Flynn must return to the underworld of drug dealers and killers he left behind years ago. Its familiar territory, only this time the stakes are higher. His life is on the line-and he is no longer a cop.”
James Colbert served in the United States Marine Corps from 1970 to 1971. After his honorable discharge (E4), he would ultimately find his way to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office where he would serve as a Deputy Sheriff from 1976 to 1978. He has a Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Arkansas, and a BA from Louisiana State University. He is the author of five books. In his novel Skinny Man, Skinny “Skinny is a New Orleans police detective who is on suspension after wrecking yet another police car. While working an interim job as security policeman for his apartment complex, he becomes involved in an arson plot involving his sexy neighbor, unscrupulous real estate developers, and an intriguing woman named Ruth. Skinny is a quirky guy with a sense of humor and a habit of referring to himself in the third person.” Colbert’s other books are “Profit and Sheen,” “No Special Hurry,” “All I Have is Blue” and “God Bless The Child.”
Both Colbert and Perry were also added to www.military-writers.com, a website that lists current, retired and former military personnel who have written books. Police-Writers.com now hosts 263 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 667 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
General Officer Announcements
Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert M. Gates announced today that the President made the following nominations:
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Richard T. Tryon has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Tryon is currently serving as the commanding general, Marine Corps Recruiting Command, Quantico.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Frank A. Panter Jr. has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Panter is currently serving as the assistant deputy commandant for installations & logistics (plans), Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John F. Kelly has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Kelly is currently serving as the legislative assistant to the commandant of the Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Terry G. Robling has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Robling is currently serving as the director, Strategy and Plans Division, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Mastin M. Robeson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Robeson is currently serving as the commanding general, 3rd Marine Division, Okinawa, Japan.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Conant has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Conant is currently serving as the director, Capabilities Development Directorate; and director for Joint and External Matters, Quantico.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert E. Schmidle Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Schmidle is currently serving as the deputy director for resources and acquisition, J-8, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Waldhauser is currently serving as the chief of staff, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John R. Allen has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Allen is currently serving as the deputy commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force; and commanding general, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Richard T. Tryon has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Tryon is currently serving as the commanding general, Marine Corps Recruiting Command, Quantico.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Frank A. Panter Jr. has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Panter is currently serving as the assistant deputy commandant for installations & logistics (plans), Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John F. Kelly has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Kelly is currently serving as the legislative assistant to the commandant of the Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Terry G. Robling has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Robling is currently serving as the director, Strategy and Plans Division, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Mastin M. Robeson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Robeson is currently serving as the commanding general, 3rd Marine Division, Okinawa, Japan.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Conant has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Conant is currently serving as the director, Capabilities Development Directorate; and director for Joint and External Matters, Quantico.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert E. Schmidle Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Schmidle is currently serving as the deputy director for resources and acquisition, J-8, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Waldhauser is currently serving as the chief of staff, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John R. Allen has been nominated for appointment to the grade of major general. Allen is currently serving as the deputy commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force; and commanding general, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
General Officer Assignments
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen announced the following flag officer assignment:
Rear Adm. Elizabeth A. Hight is being assigned as vice commander, Defense Systems Information Agency, Arlington, Va. Hight is currently serving as principal director for Global Information Grid Operations/commander, Defense Information Systems Agency Global Operations/deputy commander for Joint Task Force-Global Network Operations, Arlington, Va.
Rear Adm. (lower half) Charles H. Goddard is being assigned as program executive officer for Ships, Washington, D.C. Goddard is currently serving as vice commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.
Rear Adm. Elizabeth A. Hight is being assigned as vice commander, Defense Systems Information Agency, Arlington, Va. Hight is currently serving as principal director for Global Information Grid Operations/commander, Defense Information Systems Agency Global Operations/deputy commander for Joint Task Force-Global Network Operations, Arlington, Va.
Rear Adm. (lower half) Charles H. Goddard is being assigned as program executive officer for Ships, Washington, D.C. Goddard is currently serving as vice commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Afghan Citizens Prevent Terrorist Attack on U.S. Base
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – Two Afghan citizens prevented a terrorist attack this morning when a vehicle loaded with explosives attempted to crash through the front gate of Camp Phoenix, a U.S. base here. "Without any regard for their personal safety, a local Afghan security officer and an interpreter immediately recognized that this was a terrorist attack," said 1st Lt. Cathrin Fraker, a spokeswoman for Task Force Phoenix.
"Together, the two prevented the driver from detonating his explosives after they failed to explode during the crash. With the assistance of the U.S. security forces, they dragged the terrorist from the vehicle, where U.S. security force soldiers then detained him," she explained.
The area was immediately evacuated, and an explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the scene.
Afghan security force soldiers, with assistance from the Afghan National Police and U.S. soldiers, immediately cordoned off the area and waited for the EOD team to disarm the bomb.
"If it wasn't for the quick actions of the local nationals working for the U.S. forces, several lives would have been lost," Army Col. David B. Enyeart, the deputy task force commander, said.
During an attempt to disarm the explosives, the device detonated, but no U.S. or coalition soldiers were injured, Fraker said.
"We are grateful for the bravery and the continued diligence of our Afghan partners and the security force soldiers and who protect this base," Enyeart said.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Jan. 16, 2007 – Two Afghan citizens prevented a terrorist attack this morning when a vehicle loaded with explosives attempted to crash through the front gate of Camp Phoenix, a U.S. base here. "Without any regard for their personal safety, a local Afghan security officer and an interpreter immediately recognized that this was a terrorist attack," said 1st Lt. Cathrin Fraker, a spokeswoman for Task Force Phoenix.
"Together, the two prevented the driver from detonating his explosives after they failed to explode during the crash. With the assistance of the U.S. security forces, they dragged the terrorist from the vehicle, where U.S. security force soldiers then detained him," she explained.
The area was immediately evacuated, and an explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the scene.
Afghan security force soldiers, with assistance from the Afghan National Police and U.S. soldiers, immediately cordoned off the area and waited for the EOD team to disarm the bomb.
"If it wasn't for the quick actions of the local nationals working for the U.S. forces, several lives would have been lost," Army Col. David B. Enyeart, the deputy task force commander, said.
During an attempt to disarm the explosives, the device detonated, but no U.S. or coalition soldiers were injured, Fraker said.
"We are grateful for the bravery and the continued diligence of our Afghan partners and the security force soldiers and who protect this base," Enyeart said.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Operation Homelink Marks Milestone
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – Marking a milestone, Operation Homelink, in collaboration with Dell, presented 250 refurbished computers to families of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force on Jan. 9 at Camp Lejeune, N.C. "With this donation, Operation Homelink has now connected over 2,000 military families," Dan Shannon, founder and president of Operation Homelink, said.
Operation Homelink is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting ways Americans support the nation's servicemembers.
While most servicemembers have access to e-mail while deployed at remote outposts, the families of many junior enlisted members are often not able to afford computers and must rely on conventional mail or expensive phone calls to stay in touch, Shannon said.
Operation Homelink strives to link American servicemembers deployed overseas with their families through e-mail communication. To achieve that goal the organization distributes refurbished computers donated by sponsors such as Dell, Inc.
"We so appreciate Dell's continuing support of our efforts to connect military families with their loved ones serving overseas," Shannon said.
Operation Homelink's technology partner, NewMarketIT of Austin, Texas, provides professional refurbishment services including testing, registration, loading of a new operating system, software and links to military support Web sites. Computers are shipped in bulk to specific military units or geographic areas as designated by the donating corporation.
The families of the 2nd MEF were very appreciative to have an easy, inexpensive way to communicate with their deployed loved ones.
"This means a lot to us," Jamie Lopez, whose husband, Purple Heart recipient Sgt. Richard Lopez Jr., recently left for his fourth deployment with the 6th Marine Regiment, said. "Before, we had to go to the library to e-mail my husband. Now we can do so from home. This will make a huge difference."
Unit officials agreed that the donation would, indeed, make a huge difference.
"The Marines and sailors of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force appreciate the efforts of Operation Homelink in supporting our families, especially during this time of war," Lt. Col. Curtis L. Hill, public affairs officer for 2nd MEF, said. "The computers being provided will greatly facilitate our families' contact with their deployed loved ones."
In the past year, Dell has joined with Operation Homelink to successfully connect more than 800 military families through the donations of refurbished computers. Those computers were presented to families at Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Bragg, N.C., and Fort Campbell, Ky. Additional distributions are planned for later this year.
Spouses or parents of deployed servicemembers in the junior-level pay grades of E-1 through E-5 are eligible, Shannon said. Specific families to receive computers are identified by family readiness group leaders.
Recent success for the program has enabled the expansion to include donations of laptops to wounded soldiers receiving treatment at military hospitals throughout the United States.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Jan. 16, 2007 – Marking a milestone, Operation Homelink, in collaboration with Dell, presented 250 refurbished computers to families of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force on Jan. 9 at Camp Lejeune, N.C. "With this donation, Operation Homelink has now connected over 2,000 military families," Dan Shannon, founder and president of Operation Homelink, said.
Operation Homelink is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting ways Americans support the nation's servicemembers.
While most servicemembers have access to e-mail while deployed at remote outposts, the families of many junior enlisted members are often not able to afford computers and must rely on conventional mail or expensive phone calls to stay in touch, Shannon said.
Operation Homelink strives to link American servicemembers deployed overseas with their families through e-mail communication. To achieve that goal the organization distributes refurbished computers donated by sponsors such as Dell, Inc.
"We so appreciate Dell's continuing support of our efforts to connect military families with their loved ones serving overseas," Shannon said.
Operation Homelink's technology partner, NewMarketIT of Austin, Texas, provides professional refurbishment services including testing, registration, loading of a new operating system, software and links to military support Web sites. Computers are shipped in bulk to specific military units or geographic areas as designated by the donating corporation.
The families of the 2nd MEF were very appreciative to have an easy, inexpensive way to communicate with their deployed loved ones.
"This means a lot to us," Jamie Lopez, whose husband, Purple Heart recipient Sgt. Richard Lopez Jr., recently left for his fourth deployment with the 6th Marine Regiment, said. "Before, we had to go to the library to e-mail my husband. Now we can do so from home. This will make a huge difference."
Unit officials agreed that the donation would, indeed, make a huge difference.
"The Marines and sailors of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force appreciate the efforts of Operation Homelink in supporting our families, especially during this time of war," Lt. Col. Curtis L. Hill, public affairs officer for 2nd MEF, said. "The computers being provided will greatly facilitate our families' contact with their deployed loved ones."
In the past year, Dell has joined with Operation Homelink to successfully connect more than 800 military families through the donations of refurbished computers. Those computers were presented to families at Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Bragg, N.C., and Fort Campbell, Ky. Additional distributions are planned for later this year.
Spouses or parents of deployed servicemembers in the junior-level pay grades of E-1 through E-5 are eligible, Shannon said. Specific families to receive computers are identified by family readiness group leaders.
Recent success for the program has enabled the expansion to include donations of laptops to wounded soldiers receiving treatment at military hospitals throughout the United States.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
New Policies to Relieve Stress, Promote Unit Cohesion
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – The new Defense Department policy limiting the duration of call-ups to 12 months is already in effect for National Guard and reserve members being ordered to active duty, the senior DoD reserve affairs official reported. The new mobilization limits, announced Jan. 11, are designed to reduce stress on the force and keep Guardsmen and reservists from leaving the military, Thomas F. Hall, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, said during a joint interview with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel.
Hall said Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' policy recognizes that the 18- to 24-month mobilizations many Guard and reserve members faced were creating too heavy a burden.
Servicemembers, as well as their families and employers, spoke, and Hall said the Defense Department listened. "We have come to the conclusion that based on numerous inputs, that 18- to 21-months over a long war, over a career, is just too much," he said. "It is over and above what employers and families and individuals will accept and still remain in the Guard and reserve."
Hall reported that while shortening mobilization times, the military is also working to stretch out the time between involuntary reserve-component call-ups.
DoD's goal is to give reserve-component members five years at home between one-year-deployments. For active-duty troops, the goal is two years at home station after each one-year deployment.
Hall acknowledged that turnaround times for both active- and reserve-component troops have frequently been far shorter -- and that this needs to change. "We recognize that we're getting to a situation where we needed to make sure we adequately spread the burden between the active, Guard and reserve (force)," he said.
But in cases in which troops must deploy early or have their deployments expended -- a situation Hall acknowledged will sometimes happen -- he said he's all for a new plan to compensate the affected troops. "We think it is quite reasonable that you should receive additional compensation, and that will soon be in place," Hall said.
Gates ordered DoD and the services to come up with a compensation plan for active, Guard and reserve troops who face these circumstances.
Another new policy change -- that Guard and Reserve troops will deploy as units rather than individuals -- also is drawing wide approval, Hall said. The plan also calls for eliminating "cross-leveling," a practice used to fill manpower slots in deploying units.
Hall described the problem with cross-leveling. When a reserve unit is identified for deployment but doesn't have all its positions filled, those gaps get filled by smaller units or individuals from other units. But when those other units get deployed, they now have gaps, too, because their troops are either deployed or just returned from a deployment. "This just creates a ripple effect," Hall said.
The problem is particularly troublesome in the Army and Marine Corps, which tend to deploy their combat and combat-service-support elements as units, he said. The Air Force and Navy are more likely to mobilize individuals.
Under Gates' new policy, Army and Marine units will deploy as a whole. "So, when your unit is called, if you are serving in that unit, you will go, even if you might have mobilized before," Hall said. "This will promote cohesion and will be a better planning factor."
Hall said the new policy measures already were under discussion before Gates took over the top Pentagon post, but that he quickly agreed they were needed to help reduce stress on the force. The new policy will go a long way toward that goal, Hall said.
As these policies take effect, Hall said he's convinced Guard and reserve troops will continue to "step up" when the country needs them. "They will answer the call, just like our forefathers did, and we will fight and win this battle against the forces of international terror," he said. "And it will be because of our people and their commitment; and I want to personally thank each and every one of them in the active, Guard and reserve for what they are doing for our country."
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – The new Defense Department policy limiting the duration of call-ups to 12 months is already in effect for National Guard and reserve members being ordered to active duty, the senior DoD reserve affairs official reported. The new mobilization limits, announced Jan. 11, are designed to reduce stress on the force and keep Guardsmen and reservists from leaving the military, Thomas F. Hall, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, said during a joint interview with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel.
Hall said Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' policy recognizes that the 18- to 24-month mobilizations many Guard and reserve members faced were creating too heavy a burden.
Servicemembers, as well as their families and employers, spoke, and Hall said the Defense Department listened. "We have come to the conclusion that based on numerous inputs, that 18- to 21-months over a long war, over a career, is just too much," he said. "It is over and above what employers and families and individuals will accept and still remain in the Guard and reserve."
Hall reported that while shortening mobilization times, the military is also working to stretch out the time between involuntary reserve-component call-ups.
DoD's goal is to give reserve-component members five years at home between one-year-deployments. For active-duty troops, the goal is two years at home station after each one-year deployment.
Hall acknowledged that turnaround times for both active- and reserve-component troops have frequently been far shorter -- and that this needs to change. "We recognize that we're getting to a situation where we needed to make sure we adequately spread the burden between the active, Guard and reserve (force)," he said.
But in cases in which troops must deploy early or have their deployments expended -- a situation Hall acknowledged will sometimes happen -- he said he's all for a new plan to compensate the affected troops. "We think it is quite reasonable that you should receive additional compensation, and that will soon be in place," Hall said.
Gates ordered DoD and the services to come up with a compensation plan for active, Guard and reserve troops who face these circumstances.
Another new policy change -- that Guard and Reserve troops will deploy as units rather than individuals -- also is drawing wide approval, Hall said. The plan also calls for eliminating "cross-leveling," a practice used to fill manpower slots in deploying units.
Hall described the problem with cross-leveling. When a reserve unit is identified for deployment but doesn't have all its positions filled, those gaps get filled by smaller units or individuals from other units. But when those other units get deployed, they now have gaps, too, because their troops are either deployed or just returned from a deployment. "This just creates a ripple effect," Hall said.
The problem is particularly troublesome in the Army and Marine Corps, which tend to deploy their combat and combat-service-support elements as units, he said. The Air Force and Navy are more likely to mobilize individuals.
Under Gates' new policy, Army and Marine units will deploy as a whole. "So, when your unit is called, if you are serving in that unit, you will go, even if you might have mobilized before," Hall said. "This will promote cohesion and will be a better planning factor."
Hall said the new policy measures already were under discussion before Gates took over the top Pentagon post, but that he quickly agreed they were needed to help reduce stress on the force. The new policy will go a long way toward that goal, Hall said.
As these policies take effect, Hall said he's convinced Guard and reserve troops will continue to "step up" when the country needs them. "They will answer the call, just like our forefathers did, and we will fight and win this battle against the forces of international terror," he said. "And it will be because of our people and their commitment; and I want to personally thank each and every one of them in the active, Guard and reserve for what they are doing for our country."
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Defense News, Information Now Customized for Mobile Devices
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 17, 2007 – Defense Department news releases, articles and other information are now available in a new format that's customized for easier viewing on BlackBerries and other mobile devices, officials said. The new, mobile-device-friendly format can be accessed at www.dod.mil/mobile, officials affiliated with the project said.
"Having the ability to access the most current Defense Department information while you are on the go is especially important in the fast-paced communications world in which we live," Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communications and public liaison, said.
Offering a mobile-device-friendly format to disseminate defense information "is another way we are trying to better serve our globally based audiences, providing them the most up-to-date news and information on the war on terror and other related activity," Barber said.
The new format is specifically condensed to better fit onto the tiny viewing screens featured by most mobile devices, said Tom Dorsz, Web production supervisor at American Forces Information Service.
Mobile device usage is increasing worldwide, Dorsz said, noting that BlackBerries and similar devices enable access to Internet-sourced information anywhere at anytime.
Maximizing and integrating new technology is the mission of the new media team, said Roxie Merritt, director of DoD's new media unit.
"On your mobile device Web browser, simply type in www.dod.mil/mobile to view the top news and press releases that are customized to fit your screen," Merritt said.
Customers will see much of the same information and many of the photos and graphics that appear on the regular Defenselink Web page, available at www.dod.mil, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Brook DeWalt, AFIS's new media operations manager, said.
The new mobile system enhances DoD's mission to inform the public of its policies, as well as to communicate with servicemembers, defense civilians, retirees, and their families, Dorsz said.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 17, 2007 – Defense Department news releases, articles and other information are now available in a new format that's customized for easier viewing on BlackBerries and other mobile devices, officials said. The new, mobile-device-friendly format can be accessed at www.dod.mil/mobile, officials affiliated with the project said.
"Having the ability to access the most current Defense Department information while you are on the go is especially important in the fast-paced communications world in which we live," Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communications and public liaison, said.
Offering a mobile-device-friendly format to disseminate defense information "is another way we are trying to better serve our globally based audiences, providing them the most up-to-date news and information on the war on terror and other related activity," Barber said.
The new format is specifically condensed to better fit onto the tiny viewing screens featured by most mobile devices, said Tom Dorsz, Web production supervisor at American Forces Information Service.
Mobile device usage is increasing worldwide, Dorsz said, noting that BlackBerries and similar devices enable access to Internet-sourced information anywhere at anytime.
Maximizing and integrating new technology is the mission of the new media team, said Roxie Merritt, director of DoD's new media unit.
"On your mobile device Web browser, simply type in www.dod.mil/mobile to view the top news and press releases that are customized to fit your screen," Merritt said.
Customers will see much of the same information and many of the photos and graphics that appear on the regular Defenselink Web page, available at www.dod.mil, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Brook DeWalt, AFIS's new media operations manager, said.
The new mobile system enhances DoD's mission to inform the public of its policies, as well as to communicate with servicemembers, defense civilians, retirees, and their families, Dorsz said.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Continued Engagement Will Prevent Future Conflicts, General Says
By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – One of the most important missions the U.S. military has is forming relationships with allies and building the foundations for peace in regions around the world, the former commander of U.S. European Command said here today. The United States is still a model of freedom and leadership for the world, and if its forces stay engaged in areas of the world that are at risk for instability, they can prevent future conflicts and save valuable resources, Marine Gen. James L. Jones, who headed up European Command for four years while serving as NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe, said in an interview.
"It's clear that if you can prevent conflicts and you can shape the environment that you're in and you can engage with friends and allies and do this proactively, but in advance of any critical mass being reached in a particular area, then you can save an awful lot of resources down the road," Jones said. "These countries need help, and they need our assistance and our leadership. (It) doesn't have to be a lot of money, but it has to be consistent."
Jones pointed to EUCOM's work with Liberia and Northern Africa, where U.S. forces have been conducting humanitarian missions and training local militaries. In areas like these, just the U.S. presence is important, he said.
"We can't underestimate what building a road can do, what digging a well can do, what building a school can do, what training a country's military can do, and how our men and women in uniform are such powerful ambassadors of good things," he said.
The U.S. military's role as worldwide ambassadors was established by those who fought in past conflicts and established the U.S. as a superpower that wanted to make the world a better place, Jones said. He pointed to his own experiences working with NATO, European countries and Africa as a case of how the U.S. military is still an example to the world, standing for doing what is right.
"The United States still stands almost uniquely capable to shape the environment in such a way that people can enjoy freedom and democracy and a better way of life," he said. "That, to me, is the model that we've tried to subscribe to for many years and one that will work very well for us in the future."
As U.S. combatant commanders work to promote stability in their respective regions, it is important they involve all their partner agencies of the U.S. government, Jones said. In EUCOM, the military commanders work with many different organizations, including the U.S. State Department, Department of Commerce, FBI, CIA, and other Defense Department agencies, to coordinate operations. This cooperation gives the military a better understanding of the overall national strategy for the area and ensures efforts do not overlap, he explained.
During his time at EUCOM, Jones said, transformation went well and created a more agile force. The cohesion of all four military services smoothed the transition and helped create a more proactive force that focuses on preventing future conflicts and helping emerging democracies, he said.
"The ability to use our forces for good, for relations with allies and friends, to help the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, to deter and prevent future conflicts -- that's what the great value is," he said. "We should, one of these days, get back to our old ethos that if you have to fight, you better be able to fight and win, but that's not the only thing you should be able to do."
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – One of the most important missions the U.S. military has is forming relationships with allies and building the foundations for peace in regions around the world, the former commander of U.S. European Command said here today. The United States is still a model of freedom and leadership for the world, and if its forces stay engaged in areas of the world that are at risk for instability, they can prevent future conflicts and save valuable resources, Marine Gen. James L. Jones, who headed up European Command for four years while serving as NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe, said in an interview.
"It's clear that if you can prevent conflicts and you can shape the environment that you're in and you can engage with friends and allies and do this proactively, but in advance of any critical mass being reached in a particular area, then you can save an awful lot of resources down the road," Jones said. "These countries need help, and they need our assistance and our leadership. (It) doesn't have to be a lot of money, but it has to be consistent."
Jones pointed to EUCOM's work with Liberia and Northern Africa, where U.S. forces have been conducting humanitarian missions and training local militaries. In areas like these, just the U.S. presence is important, he said.
"We can't underestimate what building a road can do, what digging a well can do, what building a school can do, what training a country's military can do, and how our men and women in uniform are such powerful ambassadors of good things," he said.
The U.S. military's role as worldwide ambassadors was established by those who fought in past conflicts and established the U.S. as a superpower that wanted to make the world a better place, Jones said. He pointed to his own experiences working with NATO, European countries and Africa as a case of how the U.S. military is still an example to the world, standing for doing what is right.
"The United States still stands almost uniquely capable to shape the environment in such a way that people can enjoy freedom and democracy and a better way of life," he said. "That, to me, is the model that we've tried to subscribe to for many years and one that will work very well for us in the future."
As U.S. combatant commanders work to promote stability in their respective regions, it is important they involve all their partner agencies of the U.S. government, Jones said. In EUCOM, the military commanders work with many different organizations, including the U.S. State Department, Department of Commerce, FBI, CIA, and other Defense Department agencies, to coordinate operations. This cooperation gives the military a better understanding of the overall national strategy for the area and ensures efforts do not overlap, he explained.
During his time at EUCOM, Jones said, transformation went well and created a more agile force. The cohesion of all four military services smoothed the transition and helped create a more proactive force that focuses on preventing future conflicts and helping emerging democracies, he said.
"The ability to use our forces for good, for relations with allies and friends, to help the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, to deter and prevent future conflicts -- that's what the great value is," he said. "We should, one of these days, get back to our old ethos that if you have to fight, you better be able to fight and win, but that's not the only thing you should be able to do."
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Kentucky Guard Unit Checks Air Quality at Derailment Site
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – A special team of National Guardsmen is conducting an environmental survey at the site of a train derailment that occurred this morning in Brooks, Ky. The derailment occurred south of Louisville, spilling a flammable liquid that ignited and caused a fire along the track and among the tanker cars, according to a report from the National Guard Bureau's joint operations center here.
Fifteen members of the Kentucky National Guards' 41st Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction) have been deployed to the derailment site to assist local emergency responders, a Kentucky National Guard official said.
"They're assisting the fire chief from Bullitt County, conducting air quality studies and monitoring the air to make sure it's safe," said David Altom, a Kentucky National Guard spokesman.
There's no official word yet on what type of liquid or liquids were spilled, Altom said.
The state's joint incident site communications capability team is also at the derailment site providing communications back up for the emergency responders, Altom said. In addition, a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the Kentucky Guards' 63rd Aviation Group is providing overhead site monitoring and transport duties, he said.
Local fire and emergency responders are on site, while other National Guard aviation and fire fighting assets are on standby, National Guard Bureau officials said.
The Kentucky Guard civil support team is among 42 across the nation that have been established since 1999 to supplement local authorities and provide specialized emergency response capacities in the event of major contingencies.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 16, 2007 – A special team of National Guardsmen is conducting an environmental survey at the site of a train derailment that occurred this morning in Brooks, Ky. The derailment occurred south of Louisville, spilling a flammable liquid that ignited and caused a fire along the track and among the tanker cars, according to a report from the National Guard Bureau's joint operations center here.
Fifteen members of the Kentucky National Guards' 41st Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction) have been deployed to the derailment site to assist local emergency responders, a Kentucky National Guard official said.
"They're assisting the fire chief from Bullitt County, conducting air quality studies and monitoring the air to make sure it's safe," said David Altom, a Kentucky National Guard spokesman.
There's no official word yet on what type of liquid or liquids were spilled, Altom said.
The state's joint incident site communications capability team is also at the derailment site providing communications back up for the emergency responders, Altom said. In addition, a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the Kentucky Guards' 63rd Aviation Group is providing overhead site monitoring and transport duties, he said.
Local fire and emergency responders are on site, while other National Guard aviation and fire fighting assets are on standby, National Guard Bureau officials said.
The Kentucky Guard civil support team is among 42 across the nation that have been established since 1999 to supplement local authorities and provide specialized emergency response capacities in the event of major contingencies.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Navy Names New Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford
Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter announced today the selection of USS Gerald R. Ford as the name of the first aircraft carrier in what will be the Gerald R. Ford class of carriers.
This selection honors the 38th President of the United States and pays tribute to his lifetime of service in the Navy, in the U.S. government and to the nation. "President Gerald R. Ford provided the United States great leadership at a time of constitutional crisis," said Winter. "I am honored to have the opportunity to name the first ship in the new class of aircraft carriers after this great sailor, this great leader, this great man."
Born in Omaha, Neb., in 1913, he grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich. He starred on the University of Michigan football team where he was a center and team most valuable player in 1934. After graduation he attended Yale Law School, where he served as assistant football coach while earning his law degree. During World War II he attained the rank of lieutenant commander in the Navy, and served on the light carrier, the USS Monterey. After the war he returned to Grand Rapids, where he began the practice of law, and entered political life.
Ford was the first Vice President chosen under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment and, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, succeeded the first President ever to resign; serving as the 37th Vice President (1973-1974) and the 38th President of the United States (1974-1977). Prior to becoming Vice President, he served for more than eight years as the Republican Minority Leader of the House of Representatives as a representative from Michigan's 5th congressional district. The USS Gerald R. Ford will be the premier forward asset for crisis response and early decisive striking power in a major combat operation. The carrier and the carrier strike group will provide forward presence, rapid response, endurance on station, and multi-mission capability.
The USS Gerald R. Ford and subsequent Ford class carriers will provide improved war fighting capability, quality of life improvements for sailors and reduced acquisition and life cycle costs.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
This selection honors the 38th President of the United States and pays tribute to his lifetime of service in the Navy, in the U.S. government and to the nation. "President Gerald R. Ford provided the United States great leadership at a time of constitutional crisis," said Winter. "I am honored to have the opportunity to name the first ship in the new class of aircraft carriers after this great sailor, this great leader, this great man."
Born in Omaha, Neb., in 1913, he grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich. He starred on the University of Michigan football team where he was a center and team most valuable player in 1934. After graduation he attended Yale Law School, where he served as assistant football coach while earning his law degree. During World War II he attained the rank of lieutenant commander in the Navy, and served on the light carrier, the USS Monterey. After the war he returned to Grand Rapids, where he began the practice of law, and entered political life.
Ford was the first Vice President chosen under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment and, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, succeeded the first President ever to resign; serving as the 37th Vice President (1973-1974) and the 38th President of the United States (1974-1977). Prior to becoming Vice President, he served for more than eight years as the Republican Minority Leader of the House of Representatives as a representative from Michigan's 5th congressional district. The USS Gerald R. Ford will be the premier forward asset for crisis response and early decisive striking power in a major combat operation. The carrier and the carrier strike group will provide forward presence, rapid response, endurance on station, and multi-mission capability.
The USS Gerald R. Ford and subsequent Ford class carriers will provide improved war fighting capability, quality of life improvements for sailors and reduced acquisition and life cycle costs.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Robust Support for Military Families On-Going
Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Michael L. Dominguez stated at a meeting Thursday with military and community support organizations, "As additional forces deploy in support of the new strategies in Iraq, programs and policies at home will immediately respond to the needs of families. These families will need grassroots support as many are National Guard and Reserve and are distributed across many states rather than on or near military installations."
Dominguez made these comments as twenty-two of America's most prestigious military and community support organizations were here to discuss how to help military families impacted by the President's new strategy for the war in Iraq.
"We all know the important role military families play in national security," Dominguez told key leaders. "You (the support organizations) deliver services so essential and capture information about what needs to be done, I asked you to attend today to hear your ideas."
The Department of Defense has a strong bond with all of these grassroots organizations nationwide. A separate section of the Military OneSource Web-site now includes a page where community and military support organizations can post sponsored events to help connect families in their communities.
"Military families also serve. They have a patriotic and noble spirit," Dominguez said, "but their sacrifices are greater than ever with change in deployments. We appreciate your steadfast support."
Key activities under way in the Department of Defense to support military units impacted by the policy change will address families' needs, Dominguez said. Initial efforts will specifically target the needs of the units in the Minnesota National Guard, the first heavily impacted state.
A team of military family assistance counselors, requested by Minnesota's adjutant general, will provide on-going support to families in the months to come, Dominguez said. They will help coordinate local resources, identify needed services, conduct face-to-face counseling, teach classes and help families and children develop coping strategies.
These programs are based on recent experiences with similar changes in rotations. Other family issues will address financial stability and emotional challenges. Particular attention will be paid to respite child-care and children's emotional well-being.
Similar plans to support servicemembers and families of other affected units are under way by each of the military services; they are aggressively engaged. The Defense Department's robust Military OneSourcecentral location for assistance is available 24-hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. The Web site http://www.militaryonesource.com and toll-free telephone number at (800) 342-9647 provide immediate access to a consultant for help with problem solving - no issue is too small.
"If ever there was a time to show that we care for our troops, it's now," one attendee said.
Organizations present at the meeting were: Air Force Association, American Red Cross, American Legion, Armed Services YMCA, Army Emergency Relief, Association of the United States Army, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Enlisted Association of the National Guard, Fleet Reserve Association, Marine Corps Reserve Association, Marine Corps League, Military Officers Association of America, National Association for Uniformed Services, National Enlisted Reserve Association, National Guard Association of America, National Military Family Association, Navy League of the United States, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Non-Commissioned Officers Association of the United States of America, Reserve Officers Association, United Services Organization, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
Dominguez made these comments as twenty-two of America's most prestigious military and community support organizations were here to discuss how to help military families impacted by the President's new strategy for the war in Iraq.
"We all know the important role military families play in national security," Dominguez told key leaders. "You (the support organizations) deliver services so essential and capture information about what needs to be done, I asked you to attend today to hear your ideas."
The Department of Defense has a strong bond with all of these grassroots organizations nationwide. A separate section of the Military OneSource Web-site now includes a page where community and military support organizations can post sponsored events to help connect families in their communities.
"Military families also serve. They have a patriotic and noble spirit," Dominguez said, "but their sacrifices are greater than ever with change in deployments. We appreciate your steadfast support."
Key activities under way in the Department of Defense to support military units impacted by the policy change will address families' needs, Dominguez said. Initial efforts will specifically target the needs of the units in the Minnesota National Guard, the first heavily impacted state.
A team of military family assistance counselors, requested by Minnesota's adjutant general, will provide on-going support to families in the months to come, Dominguez said. They will help coordinate local resources, identify needed services, conduct face-to-face counseling, teach classes and help families and children develop coping strategies.
These programs are based on recent experiences with similar changes in rotations. Other family issues will address financial stability and emotional challenges. Particular attention will be paid to respite child-care and children's emotional well-being.
Similar plans to support servicemembers and families of other affected units are under way by each of the military services; they are aggressively engaged. The Defense Department's robust Military OneSourcecentral location for assistance is available 24-hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. The Web site http://www.militaryonesource.com and toll-free telephone number at (800) 342-9647 provide immediate access to a consultant for help with problem solving - no issue is too small.
"If ever there was a time to show that we care for our troops, it's now," one attendee said.
Organizations present at the meeting were: Air Force Association, American Red Cross, American Legion, Armed Services YMCA, Army Emergency Relief, Association of the United States Army, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Enlisted Association of the National Guard, Fleet Reserve Association, Marine Corps Reserve Association, Marine Corps League, Military Officers Association of America, National Association for Uniformed Services, National Enlisted Reserve Association, National Guard Association of America, National Military Family Association, Navy League of the United States, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Non-Commissioned Officers Association of the United States of America, Reserve Officers Association, United Services Organization, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have become authors; and criminal justice leadership online.
General Officer Nominations
Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced today that the President made the following nominations:
Marine Corps Col. David C. Garza has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Garza is currently serving as the director, MAGTF Staff Training Program, Quantico, Va.
Marine Corps Col. Ronald J. Johnson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Johnson is currently serving as the commanding officer, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC), Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Marine Corps Col. Thomas M. Murray has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Murray is currently serving as the chief, JROC Section, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Col. Lawrence D. Nicholson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Nicholson is currently serving as the commanding officer, 5th Marine Regiment, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Marine Corps Col. Andrew W. O'Donnell Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. O'Donnell is currently serving as the commanding officer, HMX-1, Quantico, Va.
Marine Corps Col. Mark A. Brilakis has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Brilakis is currently serving as the chief, European Liaison Office, U. S. European Command, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Col. Robert R. Ruark has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Ruark is currently serving as the commanding officer, 3d Material Readiness Battalion, Okinawa, Japan.
Marine Corps Col. Charles L. Hudson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hudson is currently serving as the chief, Automation Transformation Division, J-4, U. S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Marine Corps Col. William D. Beydler has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Beydler is currently serving as the commanding officer, Marine Aircraft Group - 31, Beaufort, S.C.
Marine Corps Col. David H. Berger has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Berger is currently serving as the commanding officer, 8th Marine Regiment, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Marine Corps Col. Mark A. Clark has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Clark is currently serving as the commanding officer, VMMT-204, Marine Aircraft Group - 26, Jacksonville, N.C
Marine Corps Col. David C. Garza has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Garza is currently serving as the director, MAGTF Staff Training Program, Quantico, Va.
Marine Corps Col. Ronald J. Johnson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Johnson is currently serving as the commanding officer, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC), Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Marine Corps Col. Thomas M. Murray has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Murray is currently serving as the chief, JROC Section, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Col. Lawrence D. Nicholson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Nicholson is currently serving as the commanding officer, 5th Marine Regiment, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Marine Corps Col. Andrew W. O'Donnell Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. O'Donnell is currently serving as the commanding officer, HMX-1, Quantico, Va.
Marine Corps Col. Mark A. Brilakis has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Brilakis is currently serving as the chief, European Liaison Office, U. S. European Command, Washington, D.C.
Marine Corps Col. Robert R. Ruark has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Ruark is currently serving as the commanding officer, 3d Material Readiness Battalion, Okinawa, Japan.
Marine Corps Col. Charles L. Hudson has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hudson is currently serving as the chief, Automation Transformation Division, J-4, U. S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Marine Corps Col. William D. Beydler has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Beydler is currently serving as the commanding officer, Marine Aircraft Group - 31, Beaufort, S.C.
Marine Corps Col. David H. Berger has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Berger is currently serving as the commanding officer, 8th Marine Regiment, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Marine Corps Col. Mark A. Clark has been nominated for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Clark is currently serving as the commanding officer, VMMT-204, Marine Aircraft Group - 26, Jacksonville, N.C
Monday, January 15, 2007
Humor, Vintage Aircraft and the Windy City
Editors Note: One of the authors, Lou Fulgaro, is a Korean War combat veteran.
January 15, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com added five new police officers to the growing list of state and local police officers who have authored books. Police-Writers.com now lists 258 police officers turned writers and their 658 books. Added during this round here Charles Shafer, Richard Solita, Lou Fugaro, Terry Roger and Joseph Kozenczak.
Charles Shafer retired from the Chicago Police Department after 28 years, of which 25 were spent as a detective. His short fiction and articles have appeared world wide, in such magazines as Crime Time, Crime Factory, Mystery Scene, and Murderous Intent. His first novel, “On Cabrini Green,” was published in 2000. His second novel, “Chicago Stretch,” was released in 2003.
According to Kerry J. Schooley, “On Cabrini Green is not just yuks. Shafer fashions a solid plot that depicts victims drawn to their fates through their own rapacious greed. Narration shifts points of view to keep the story moving briskly. Readers get a broad-shouldered tour that reveals even tourist-familiar sections of the Windy City from sharply different angles.”
After retiring from the Chicago Police Department, Richard Solita, wrote a humorous, insider’s tale of his journey from “rookie to veteran” in “Twenty Years of Vaudeville and a Pension: What Really Happens Behind the Badge Based on True Stories of Chicago's Finest.” Earl Zuelke, Commander Chicago Police Department, Marine Unit, said, “ Having over thirty-five years in law enforcement, I found this book to be quite amusing, as well as bringing back memories of many similar past experiences. I recommend this book to those who have lived the job and anyone that would like to get an insiders perspective on it.”
Lou Fugaro is a past member of the prestigious Chicago Crime Commission, pilot by passion, police officer and licensed private detective by vocation. Indeed, he dabbled in investigations to the age of seventy-one.
In the early months of the Korean War, he enlisted in the Air Force. Although he is a combat veteran, he describes his four medals insignificant. Upon return to the states he began a career in law enforcement. Most of his twenty-six years as a police officer were spent on the street as a Detective Sergeant. However, he retired as a Deputy Chief on the Downers Grove Police Department. Post policing career, he spent ten years as a private detective in four Midwest states and he dabbled in investigations for a second ten years in eight Southeast states.
An avid pilot, he has owned several aircraft from a 175 HP cabin Fairchild, (The R46 and Little Louie) up to a 3400 HP twin engine B-25, (Barbie III and Company). His latest book, “Giants Over Korea: A Sky Too Far” takes the reader to the early B-29 air war over North Korea with remarkable depth and frightening detail. His book on investigations takes the reader into the world of an authentic licensed private detective. Not only does he provide invaluable insights into being a private investigator, but he explores the world of a private investigator as a small business owner.
While Police-Writers.com hosts 258 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 657 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
January 15, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com added five new police officers to the growing list of state and local police officers who have authored books. Police-Writers.com now lists 258 police officers turned writers and their 658 books. Added during this round here Charles Shafer, Richard Solita, Lou Fugaro, Terry Roger and Joseph Kozenczak.
Charles Shafer retired from the Chicago Police Department after 28 years, of which 25 were spent as a detective. His short fiction and articles have appeared world wide, in such magazines as Crime Time, Crime Factory, Mystery Scene, and Murderous Intent. His first novel, “On Cabrini Green,” was published in 2000. His second novel, “Chicago Stretch,” was released in 2003.
According to Kerry J. Schooley, “On Cabrini Green is not just yuks. Shafer fashions a solid plot that depicts victims drawn to their fates through their own rapacious greed. Narration shifts points of view to keep the story moving briskly. Readers get a broad-shouldered tour that reveals even tourist-familiar sections of the Windy City from sharply different angles.”
After retiring from the Chicago Police Department, Richard Solita, wrote a humorous, insider’s tale of his journey from “rookie to veteran” in “Twenty Years of Vaudeville and a Pension: What Really Happens Behind the Badge Based on True Stories of Chicago's Finest.” Earl Zuelke, Commander Chicago Police Department, Marine Unit, said, “ Having over thirty-five years in law enforcement, I found this book to be quite amusing, as well as bringing back memories of many similar past experiences. I recommend this book to those who have lived the job and anyone that would like to get an insiders perspective on it.”
Lou Fugaro is a past member of the prestigious Chicago Crime Commission, pilot by passion, police officer and licensed private detective by vocation. Indeed, he dabbled in investigations to the age of seventy-one.
In the early months of the Korean War, he enlisted in the Air Force. Although he is a combat veteran, he describes his four medals insignificant. Upon return to the states he began a career in law enforcement. Most of his twenty-six years as a police officer were spent on the street as a Detective Sergeant. However, he retired as a Deputy Chief on the Downers Grove Police Department. Post policing career, he spent ten years as a private detective in four Midwest states and he dabbled in investigations for a second ten years in eight Southeast states.
An avid pilot, he has owned several aircraft from a 175 HP cabin Fairchild, (The R46 and Little Louie) up to a 3400 HP twin engine B-25, (Barbie III and Company). His latest book, “Giants Over Korea: A Sky Too Far” takes the reader to the early B-29 air war over North Korea with remarkable depth and frightening detail. His book on investigations takes the reader into the world of an authentic licensed private detective. Not only does he provide invaluable insights into being a private investigator, but he explores the world of a private investigator as a small business owner.
While Police-Writers.com hosts 258 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 657 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Fisher House Foundation to Build Many More Homes
By Steven Donald Smith
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 14, 2007 – The Fisher House Foundation will expand its efforts to help injured U.S. troops and their families by building five new comfort homes per year until 2010, the foundation's chairman said last night on CNN's "Larry King Live." These are families that make sacrifices. This program is designed to help them," Ken Fisher said.
The foundation builds homes on and near active military and Veterans Affairs medical facilities. The houses provide free lodging for servicemembers who must stay near a hospital for continuing treatment, as well as families visiting wounded loved ones.
The work done by the Fisher House Foundation was featured for the entire hour on last night's "Larry King Live." Clips of King and his crew visiting patients at the Fisher House in San Diego last week were shown throughout the program. King also interviewed servicemembers and their families who are currently at other Fisher House locations or have stayed at one previously.
Army Staff Sgt. Harold Ord, whose right ankle and lower leg were shattered by a mortar round last year in Iraq, talked about his appreciation for the Fisher House at Fort Campbell, Ky., where he is receiving treatment. "It's a great organization and it's great thing to have," Ord said. "We probably would have had a rough time without it. It's helped out a lot of people."
The foundation was started in 1990 by Ken's late uncle, Zack Fisher. When it was brought to Zack's attention that there was a shortage of affordable housing for injured servicemembers and their families, he decided to put the program together, Ken Fisher said.
Zack Fisher built the first comfort homes with his own money. "Zack always believed that it was our obligation to give back to a nation that had been so great to us," Ken Fisher said. "Zack always considered them (servicemembers) to be the greatest national treasure."
Today, there are 36 Fisher House facilities in 16 states and one in Germany. After the houses are built, they are gifted to U.S. government, which then maintains them. Fisher said the foundation works closely with the military to determine where a new house should be built.
"The beauty part of the house is that the families will sit together, they'll eat together, it has become a support network in the house," Fisher said. "It's not just families having a place to sleep, it's getting together and supporting each other on a bad day and sharing the joy on a good day."
Actor Gary Sinise, star of the hit CBS program "CSI: New York," joined King via satellite feed. Sinise said he has been involved with the Fisher House Foundation since 2003. "Fisher Houses are doing amazing, amazing work," he said. "I can't say enough about these folks and their dedication to helping our wounded and supporting our families."
Sinise and his music group, the Lt. Dan Band, named after the character he played in the movie "Forrest Gump," have played more than 40 shows for troops stationed in the United States, Iraq and Afghanistan. They will next perform at the Washington, D.C. Auto Show at the Washington Convention Center Jan. 27.
"It's rewarding to know that I can give back to these people who are volunteers, and who go out and defend our country," Sinise told King. "They're making a lot of sacrifices for us. And their families do as well."
Sinise, like the Fisher House Foundation, is an active member of the "America Supports You" program, a Defense Department program showcasing the ways Americans are supporting the nation's troops. In addition, Sinise co-founded "Operation Iraqi Children," an organization that collects and ships school supplies and toys to Iraq.
Country music singer Wynonna Judd also appeared on last night's program. "I think there's nothing more important than support in a time of illness," she said.
Judd has performed at many military bases and medical facilities. "My job is to enlighten and lift up the spirits of these people who put their butts on the line every day so my family is free," she said.
Denise Mettie, who is staying at the Fisher House near Palo Alto, Calif., praised the foundation for giving her a place to stay while her son Evan gets treatment for severe injuries he received in Iraq. "Fisher House is a godsend," she said.
Army Staff Sgt. Ross Graydon, his wife Jamie and daughter Brittney, 10, appeared on the show from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Graydon lost his left arm while serving in Iraq.
Jamie said Fisher House has been like a home away from home while her husband gets treatment. "It's nice and very comfortable," she said. "Everybody is friendly, so you have a nice internal support system working for you."
Ken Fisher said seeing the Graydon family reinforced the reason the foundation does what it does. "This is exactly why we do what we do. To see the three of them together and wonder what it would have been like had they not been able to there," he said. "It's a wonderful feeling to see them together."
CNN will auction off a Humvee nicknamed "Warrior One" to benefit the Fisher House Foundation Jan. 20. The vehicle was used by some of the network's correspondents during the Iraq war, but was completely refurbished during a recent episode of TLC's "Overhaulin.'" Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., a classic car auction house, will auction the vehicle at its headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have published books, articles and blogs; and criminal justice leadership online.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 14, 2007 – The Fisher House Foundation will expand its efforts to help injured U.S. troops and their families by building five new comfort homes per year until 2010, the foundation's chairman said last night on CNN's "Larry King Live." These are families that make sacrifices. This program is designed to help them," Ken Fisher said.
The foundation builds homes on and near active military and Veterans Affairs medical facilities. The houses provide free lodging for servicemembers who must stay near a hospital for continuing treatment, as well as families visiting wounded loved ones.
The work done by the Fisher House Foundation was featured for the entire hour on last night's "Larry King Live." Clips of King and his crew visiting patients at the Fisher House in San Diego last week were shown throughout the program. King also interviewed servicemembers and their families who are currently at other Fisher House locations or have stayed at one previously.
Army Staff Sgt. Harold Ord, whose right ankle and lower leg were shattered by a mortar round last year in Iraq, talked about his appreciation for the Fisher House at Fort Campbell, Ky., where he is receiving treatment. "It's a great organization and it's great thing to have," Ord said. "We probably would have had a rough time without it. It's helped out a lot of people."
The foundation was started in 1990 by Ken's late uncle, Zack Fisher. When it was brought to Zack's attention that there was a shortage of affordable housing for injured servicemembers and their families, he decided to put the program together, Ken Fisher said.
Zack Fisher built the first comfort homes with his own money. "Zack always believed that it was our obligation to give back to a nation that had been so great to us," Ken Fisher said. "Zack always considered them (servicemembers) to be the greatest national treasure."
Today, there are 36 Fisher House facilities in 16 states and one in Germany. After the houses are built, they are gifted to U.S. government, which then maintains them. Fisher said the foundation works closely with the military to determine where a new house should be built.
"The beauty part of the house is that the families will sit together, they'll eat together, it has become a support network in the house," Fisher said. "It's not just families having a place to sleep, it's getting together and supporting each other on a bad day and sharing the joy on a good day."
Actor Gary Sinise, star of the hit CBS program "CSI: New York," joined King via satellite feed. Sinise said he has been involved with the Fisher House Foundation since 2003. "Fisher Houses are doing amazing, amazing work," he said. "I can't say enough about these folks and their dedication to helping our wounded and supporting our families."
Sinise and his music group, the Lt. Dan Band, named after the character he played in the movie "Forrest Gump," have played more than 40 shows for troops stationed in the United States, Iraq and Afghanistan. They will next perform at the Washington, D.C. Auto Show at the Washington Convention Center Jan. 27.
"It's rewarding to know that I can give back to these people who are volunteers, and who go out and defend our country," Sinise told King. "They're making a lot of sacrifices for us. And their families do as well."
Sinise, like the Fisher House Foundation, is an active member of the "America Supports You" program, a Defense Department program showcasing the ways Americans are supporting the nation's troops. In addition, Sinise co-founded "Operation Iraqi Children," an organization that collects and ships school supplies and toys to Iraq.
Country music singer Wynonna Judd also appeared on last night's program. "I think there's nothing more important than support in a time of illness," she said.
Judd has performed at many military bases and medical facilities. "My job is to enlighten and lift up the spirits of these people who put their butts on the line every day so my family is free," she said.
Denise Mettie, who is staying at the Fisher House near Palo Alto, Calif., praised the foundation for giving her a place to stay while her son Evan gets treatment for severe injuries he received in Iraq. "Fisher House is a godsend," she said.
Army Staff Sgt. Ross Graydon, his wife Jamie and daughter Brittney, 10, appeared on the show from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Graydon lost his left arm while serving in Iraq.
Jamie said Fisher House has been like a home away from home while her husband gets treatment. "It's nice and very comfortable," she said. "Everybody is friendly, so you have a nice internal support system working for you."
Ken Fisher said seeing the Graydon family reinforced the reason the foundation does what it does. "This is exactly why we do what we do. To see the three of them together and wonder what it would have been like had they not been able to there," he said. "It's a wonderful feeling to see them together."
CNN will auction off a Humvee nicknamed "Warrior One" to benefit the Fisher House Foundation Jan. 20. The vehicle was used by some of the network's correspondents during the Iraq war, but was completely refurbished during a recent episode of TLC's "Overhaulin.'" Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., a classic car auction house, will auction the vehicle at its headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have published books, articles and blogs; and criminal justice leadership online.
University of Miami 'Adopts' Sailors in Iraq
By Chief Petty Officer Jeffrey McCoy, USN
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 14, 2007 – The University of Miami Hurricanes have reached out to share a little bit of home with the men and women of the Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion, "The Sand Pirates," currently serving at Camp Bucca, Iraq. The connection between the Navy unit and the university is through the Battalion's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Kathryn A. Donovan, who once worked for University of Miami President Donna Shalala. Shalala sent almost 100 shirts and baseball caps to the battalion just in time for this year's college football bowl games.
"This very generous way of thanking the soldiers, sailors and airmen who are away from their families at the holidays and provided a huge morale boost. Plus, there are just a lot of Hurricane fans in the desert," said Donovan.
Among the recipients of a green-and-orange "U" cap was Army Spc. Estuardo Morales, of Tampa, Fla., who said he was overwhelmed to receive an official Miami Hurricanes cap. "The hat reminds me of home, because everybody in my family loves the Hurricanes," he said. "I leave my new hat on top of my 'battle rattle' in the office to show my school pride because I work with all Gamecocks fans, and they don't have any hats."
Morales is attached to the 251st Rear Area Operations Center, a National Guard unit from South Carolina. "Battle rattle" is a slang term soldiers use to refer to their body armor and helmet.
Airman Morris Bell created a motivational sign with the slogan, "Taking a Time Out for The U, Camp Bucca, Iraq."
"I'm from Houston, so I don't know much about Miami, but I'll cheer for anyone that sends free hats and shirts," he said. "I know that Devon Hester went to Miami and he's worth cheering for."
A third "Canes" fan, Petty Officer 2nd Class Steven Sharrard, hails from Hawaii, but his grandmother lived in Miami and he has been a Hurricane and Dolphins fan since childhood. "This really improved the battalion's morale and is truly appreciated," he said. "The fact that the hats and T-shirts arrived during the holidays makes them even more special."
Seaman Abel Rivera added, "This helps us feel supported from people back home and lifts our spirit in this environment. It keeps us motivated to keep going."
"Thanks for your thoughts and prayers," said Petty Officer 1st Class Isiah Dumas. "Maybe we'll see 'the U' in a BCS Bowl Game next year." said
The University of Miami effort is just one of countless others being put forth by the American public, grassroots organizations and corporations to show support for U.S. servicemembers.
The Defense Department's "America Supports You" program highlights many of those efforts. More information is available on the America Supports You Web site.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have published books, articles and blogs; and criminal justice leadership online.
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 14, 2007 – The University of Miami Hurricanes have reached out to share a little bit of home with the men and women of the Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion, "The Sand Pirates," currently serving at Camp Bucca, Iraq. The connection between the Navy unit and the university is through the Battalion's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Kathryn A. Donovan, who once worked for University of Miami President Donna Shalala. Shalala sent almost 100 shirts and baseball caps to the battalion just in time for this year's college football bowl games.
"This very generous way of thanking the soldiers, sailors and airmen who are away from their families at the holidays and provided a huge morale boost. Plus, there are just a lot of Hurricane fans in the desert," said Donovan.
Among the recipients of a green-and-orange "U" cap was Army Spc. Estuardo Morales, of Tampa, Fla., who said he was overwhelmed to receive an official Miami Hurricanes cap. "The hat reminds me of home, because everybody in my family loves the Hurricanes," he said. "I leave my new hat on top of my 'battle rattle' in the office to show my school pride because I work with all Gamecocks fans, and they don't have any hats."
Morales is attached to the 251st Rear Area Operations Center, a National Guard unit from South Carolina. "Battle rattle" is a slang term soldiers use to refer to their body armor and helmet.
Airman Morris Bell created a motivational sign with the slogan, "Taking a Time Out for The U, Camp Bucca, Iraq."
"I'm from Houston, so I don't know much about Miami, but I'll cheer for anyone that sends free hats and shirts," he said. "I know that Devon Hester went to Miami and he's worth cheering for."
A third "Canes" fan, Petty Officer 2nd Class Steven Sharrard, hails from Hawaii, but his grandmother lived in Miami and he has been a Hurricane and Dolphins fan since childhood. "This really improved the battalion's morale and is truly appreciated," he said. "The fact that the hats and T-shirts arrived during the holidays makes them even more special."
Seaman Abel Rivera added, "This helps us feel supported from people back home and lifts our spirit in this environment. It keeps us motivated to keep going."
"Thanks for your thoughts and prayers," said Petty Officer 1st Class Isiah Dumas. "Maybe we'll see 'the U' in a BCS Bowl Game next year." said
The University of Miami effort is just one of countless others being put forth by the American public, grassroots organizations and corporations to show support for U.S. servicemembers.
The Defense Department's "America Supports You" program highlights many of those efforts. More information is available on the America Supports You Web site.
Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have published books, articles and blogs; and criminal justice leadership online.
Chicago: the reality and the fiction
Editors Note: One of the author is Vietnam era prior military with service in the theatre, 1st Infantry Division.
January 14, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com added three Chicago police officers to the listing of state and local police officers who have authored books. Added were William O’Shea, C.M. Russell and Daniel Schrager.
William O’Shea began his public service career in 1968 when, as a Chicago Police Cadet, he was assigned to the infamous Democratic National Convention. In the ensuing decades as a Chicago Police Officer he had many adventures, some of which are chronicled in his first novel, “The Foot Post.”
In 1992, Bill moved to southern Illinois with his wife, Susan, and established a detective agency under his private investigator’s license. In recent years, he has been active as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, working with children who find themselves mired in the court system. His experiences as a CASA volunteer moved him to write “The Advocate” and create the advocacy project.
Bill is now a relentless advocate for the rights of abused and sexually exploited children and fears that it will be a life long endeavor.
C. M. Russell was born and raised in Chicago, IL. After graduating from the University of Illinois/Chicago Campus, he began his career with the Chicago Police Department. He has drawn upon numerous real-life experiences from this urban city to depict the situations officers face on a daily basis. This, his first book, takes the reader on a virtual ride-a-long with the officers. His account is action packed, suspenseful, and keeps the adrenaline pumping right to the very end.
According to his book, Thin Blue Line is about power and control in the city of Chicago. The drama asks, “who is really running the streets of Chicago? A high-ranking gang member’s trial is less than a week away. Determined not to go back to the penitentiary, he decides to “tie up some loose ends”. An officer, on patrol in the area, interrupts those plans and pays the ultimate price. Now, two veteran police officers lead the manhunt to bring this killer to justice. There’s only one problem; too much red tape! Ultimately, they must choose between what is legally right and morally right.”
Daniel Schrager was a member of the Chicago Police Department for twenty-eight years, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant in 1998. During his career, he worked as a patrol officer in the Cabrini-Green housing project; spent eight years as a vice officer in the Rush Street entertainment area; three years as a sergeant in a special unit created by then-mayor Jane Byrne to investigate misconduct in the Chicago Transit Authority; and, several years as a patrol sergeant. During his last five years on the Chicago Police Department, he was the Acting Watch Commander in the 24th Patrol District.
For eighteen months, in an unofficial capacity, he assisted as a bodyguard and driver for a mayoral candidate during a re-election bid.
Prior to joining the Chicago Police Department, he served fourteen months in Vietnam assigned to the U.S. Army First Infantry Division, including the period of the Tet offensive in 1968.
His book “The Code” is the story of a Chicago cop, Jake Harmon, who stumbles across an unidentified man carrying $250,000. While struggling to adhere to the "Cop Code of Behavior," he attempts to uncover the source of the money. Aided by his girlfriend and fellow officer, Aranda Gonzalez, he makes a shocking discovery that pushes him to the limits of the Code. His second book, “On The Edge” is the story of two Chicago cops, the investigative reporter they've teamed up with, and their investigation into the seamy world of drugs, politics and corruption.
While Police-Writers.com hosts 253 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 647 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
January 14, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com added three Chicago police officers to the listing of state and local police officers who have authored books. Added were William O’Shea, C.M. Russell and Daniel Schrager.
William O’Shea began his public service career in 1968 when, as a Chicago Police Cadet, he was assigned to the infamous Democratic National Convention. In the ensuing decades as a Chicago Police Officer he had many adventures, some of which are chronicled in his first novel, “The Foot Post.”
In 1992, Bill moved to southern Illinois with his wife, Susan, and established a detective agency under his private investigator’s license. In recent years, he has been active as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, working with children who find themselves mired in the court system. His experiences as a CASA volunteer moved him to write “The Advocate” and create the advocacy project.
Bill is now a relentless advocate for the rights of abused and sexually exploited children and fears that it will be a life long endeavor.
C. M. Russell was born and raised in Chicago, IL. After graduating from the University of Illinois/Chicago Campus, he began his career with the Chicago Police Department. He has drawn upon numerous real-life experiences from this urban city to depict the situations officers face on a daily basis. This, his first book, takes the reader on a virtual ride-a-long with the officers. His account is action packed, suspenseful, and keeps the adrenaline pumping right to the very end.
According to his book, Thin Blue Line is about power and control in the city of Chicago. The drama asks, “who is really running the streets of Chicago? A high-ranking gang member’s trial is less than a week away. Determined not to go back to the penitentiary, he decides to “tie up some loose ends”. An officer, on patrol in the area, interrupts those plans and pays the ultimate price. Now, two veteran police officers lead the manhunt to bring this killer to justice. There’s only one problem; too much red tape! Ultimately, they must choose between what is legally right and morally right.”
Daniel Schrager was a member of the Chicago Police Department for twenty-eight years, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant in 1998. During his career, he worked as a patrol officer in the Cabrini-Green housing project; spent eight years as a vice officer in the Rush Street entertainment area; three years as a sergeant in a special unit created by then-mayor Jane Byrne to investigate misconduct in the Chicago Transit Authority; and, several years as a patrol sergeant. During his last five years on the Chicago Police Department, he was the Acting Watch Commander in the 24th Patrol District.
For eighteen months, in an unofficial capacity, he assisted as a bodyguard and driver for a mayoral candidate during a re-election bid.
Prior to joining the Chicago Police Department, he served fourteen months in Vietnam assigned to the U.S. Army First Infantry Division, including the period of the Tet offensive in 1968.
His book “The Code” is the story of a Chicago cop, Jake Harmon, who stumbles across an unidentified man carrying $250,000. While struggling to adhere to the "Cop Code of Behavior," he attempts to uncover the source of the money. Aided by his girlfriend and fellow officer, Aranda Gonzalez, he makes a shocking discovery that pushes him to the limits of the Code. His second book, “On The Edge” is the story of two Chicago cops, the investigative reporter they've teamed up with, and their investigation into the seamy world of drugs, politics and corruption.
While Police-Writers.com hosts 253 police officers (representing over 70 police departments) and their 647 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors and international police officers who have written books.
Marine Brothers-in-Arms Honor Fallen Hero
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 13, 2007 – There's a picture that shows the remains of Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham's helmet, but in no way do the shattered, flattened pieces of Kevlar resemble a helmet. Dunham died April 15, 2004, when he leapt on a grenade, using his helmet and body to shield his fellow Marines.
For his actions, the 23-year-old Marine who grew up in Scio, N.Y., was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor Dec. 11 by President Bush during a White House ceremony. The Medal of Honor, given for gallantry in action, is the nation's highest decoration.
Yesterday, Dunham's parents visited here to receive the Medal of Honor flag from Gen. Robert Magnus, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, and to thank those who cared for her son. "To the brothers-in-arms who took care of my son: You brought him home," Deb Dunham told the Marines.
Magnus praised the fallen hero yesterday for putting the welfare of his fellow Marines above his own. "In that very short moment, when Corporal Dunham and his Marines saw that grenade rolling free, he gave selflessly of himself his last full measure," Magnus said. "We celebrate the life, the values and the example of Corporal Jason Dunham today and forever more."
Maj. Trent Gibson, Dunham's commanding officer with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment told Deb and Don Dunham their son did not die in vain. "Yours has been an endless burden, the sacrifice of a son," he said. "That sacrifice has not been in vain."
Gibson talked to Dunham the morning he was killed. "I explained to him that I witnessed his appointment to the title of respected and trusted leader," he said, "a title which I believe cannot be given by one's seniors, but can only be given by one's subordinates."
Then Gibson addressed Corporals Kelly D. Miller and Bill Hampton, the two men Dunham saved when he used his body to absorb the blast.
"I have just a few words of wisdom for you, borrowed from one of my personal heroes, Kilo 3 Bravo Gunnery Sergeant Adam Lockert," he said. "All that we have, has been given to us. What we do with what has been given is how we honor those who gave."
Dunham's extraordinary service honors the Marine Corps, Miller said. "The greatness of his sacrifice is impossible to describe with words," he said. "He gave his life for mine."
Marines paid tribute to Dunham at the National Museum of the Marine Corps here, their first Medal of Honor recipient since Lance Cpl. Miguel Keith received the medal in 1970 for heroism in Vietnam.
"As a symbol of heroism, the Medal of Honor has no equal," Harvey Barnum, retired Marine and Medal of Honor recipient, said. "Inherent in this medal is the power of America, the assurance of a proper destiny, and the promise of her magnanimity."
Dunham's clean-shaven young face now joins the 294 Marine Medal of Honor recipients' portraits displayed in the museum.
Justin Lambert, who grew up playing with Dunham on his father's dairy farm, was on hand for yesterday's ceremony.
Lambert described his boyhood friend as a kid at heart. "Jason told me he loved the kids over there (in Iraq)," he said. "He would give them candy, play soccer with them.
"He really felt like he was making a difference, and he did make a difference," Lambert said. "What he did was a selfless act. He knew what the consequences were and he did it to protect his guys. That's the way he was."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, police and military personnel who have become authors and written books, articles and more.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 13, 2007 – There's a picture that shows the remains of Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham's helmet, but in no way do the shattered, flattened pieces of Kevlar resemble a helmet. Dunham died April 15, 2004, when he leapt on a grenade, using his helmet and body to shield his fellow Marines.
For his actions, the 23-year-old Marine who grew up in Scio, N.Y., was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor Dec. 11 by President Bush during a White House ceremony. The Medal of Honor, given for gallantry in action, is the nation's highest decoration.
Yesterday, Dunham's parents visited here to receive the Medal of Honor flag from Gen. Robert Magnus, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, and to thank those who cared for her son. "To the brothers-in-arms who took care of my son: You brought him home," Deb Dunham told the Marines.
Magnus praised the fallen hero yesterday for putting the welfare of his fellow Marines above his own. "In that very short moment, when Corporal Dunham and his Marines saw that grenade rolling free, he gave selflessly of himself his last full measure," Magnus said. "We celebrate the life, the values and the example of Corporal Jason Dunham today and forever more."
Maj. Trent Gibson, Dunham's commanding officer with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment told Deb and Don Dunham their son did not die in vain. "Yours has been an endless burden, the sacrifice of a son," he said. "That sacrifice has not been in vain."
Gibson talked to Dunham the morning he was killed. "I explained to him that I witnessed his appointment to the title of respected and trusted leader," he said, "a title which I believe cannot be given by one's seniors, but can only be given by one's subordinates."
Then Gibson addressed Corporals Kelly D. Miller and Bill Hampton, the two men Dunham saved when he used his body to absorb the blast.
"I have just a few words of wisdom for you, borrowed from one of my personal heroes, Kilo 3 Bravo Gunnery Sergeant Adam Lockert," he said. "All that we have, has been given to us. What we do with what has been given is how we honor those who gave."
Dunham's extraordinary service honors the Marine Corps, Miller said. "The greatness of his sacrifice is impossible to describe with words," he said. "He gave his life for mine."
Marines paid tribute to Dunham at the National Museum of the Marine Corps here, their first Medal of Honor recipient since Lance Cpl. Miguel Keith received the medal in 1970 for heroism in Vietnam.
"As a symbol of heroism, the Medal of Honor has no equal," Harvey Barnum, retired Marine and Medal of Honor recipient, said. "Inherent in this medal is the power of America, the assurance of a proper destiny, and the promise of her magnanimity."
Dunham's clean-shaven young face now joins the 294 Marine Medal of Honor recipients' portraits displayed in the museum.
Justin Lambert, who grew up playing with Dunham on his father's dairy farm, was on hand for yesterday's ceremony.
Lambert described his boyhood friend as a kid at heart. "Jason told me he loved the kids over there (in Iraq)," he said. "He would give them candy, play soccer with them.
"He really felt like he was making a difference, and he did make a difference," Lambert said. "What he did was a selfless act. He knew what the consequences were and he did it to protect his guys. That's the way he was."
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