Northwest Sailors Promote Environmental Stewardship

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Scott A. McCall, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Det. Northwest

INDIAN ISLAND, Wash. (NNS) -- Sailors from Navy Region Northwest helped local Native American tribes seed 3 million manila clams along the beaches of Naval Magazine (NAVMAG) Indian Island Aug. 9-11.

The seeding project is part of a larger agreement between the Navy and the local Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest to recognize the tribes' rights and satisfy the Navy's mission requirements while sharing shorelines.

This particular project is a seeding mitigation effort related to the installation of a port protection security barrier for the ships and submarines, said Bill Kalina, NAVMAG Indian Island environmental site manager.

"We entered into a 10-year memorandum agreement to seed their tribal beaches, so the money they lose from crab and shrimp is recuperated down here with clam," said Kalina. "This is a beach that they would normally harvest from for manila clams."

The seeding process improves clam growth density, allowing the tribes to harvest heavier bags of clam.

"It's like stocking a fish lake," said Kalina. "You can go to fish a lake and you'll catch a few fish. You stock it and you can catch tons of fish."

Six beaches on Indian Island have been labeled as tribal harvest beaches, allowing the tribes to seed and harvest those particular beaches every year of the agreement. The tribes will "farm" more than an acre a year, checking on the clams every year until they're ready to be harvested, which usually takes about three years, said Kalina.

"It's like farming crops," said Kalina. "You rotate your crops. It's the same thing at the beach. This is actually shellfish aqua culture."

This year, the project started Aug. 1. For three days, tribal members and Navy personnel staked out predator nets along the beach. Then Aug. 9, they began seeding the protected areas.

"There are ducks and crab that like to come in and eat the baby clam, so these nets provide a higher rate of survival," said Kalina.

The opening of Indian Island's beaches allows tribes to harvest shellfish, such as the clams seeded this week, for the purpose of subsistence.

"It helps a lot because the tribal members harvest commercially for their existence and for ceremonies, so the more resources available for them is the extra income," said Viviane Barry, shellfish program manager Suquamish Fisheries Department.

"It's a tradition that's been going on for thousands of years," said Barry. "Tribes have been living off the tide lands in Washington State and it's a tradition that they want to continue."

Indian Island has had a long-standing relationship with the local tribes. The installation has partnered with the tribes for decades to mutually agree on policies and procedures to achieve both the Navy's mission as well as preserve the tribes' cultural traditions and harvesting rights even before any federal requirement or mitigation were discussed, Kalina said.

"They're water people and we're a water mission agency, so we have that in common," said Kalina. "We can keep the Navy running and supply the fleet with ordnance and weapon storage here, but we can also maintain the eco-system here and provide the tribes here harvest treaty rights."

In 2003, the Navy established the Northwest Navy-Tribal Council, which provides a means for ongoing collaboration between the Navy and 24 federally recognized tribes in Washington State, according to Kalina. The Navy and tribes share unique federal "usual and accustomed" shoreline rights in the Puget Sound area. Mitigation projects -- like clam-seeding at Indian Island -- help support these mutual interests within the Navy's third-largest fleet concentration area.

"We want to be good neighbors. We work well with the tribes and we always have," said Cmdr. Gary Martin, NAVMAG Indian Island commanding officer. "The Navy does a great job with all the tribes in Puget Sound. We just want to continue to have that good relationship."

Seeding and harvesting manila clams on Indian Island may also provide additional environmental benefits to the surrounding community.

"One of the main goals of the tribes is to maintain the water quality where the water quality is good enough where you can have open harvest areas," said Barry. "Second is to improve the water quality in areas where's there's pollution, or you can identify the pollution sources and correct them, so eventually you can open more beaches."

The local tribes participating in the project are the Suquamish from Poulsbo, Wash., the S'Klallam from Port Gamble, Wash., and Jamestown, Wash., along with the Lower Elwah Klallam from Port Angeles, Wash.

Military News: The Halli and MoJoe Show Facebook Page

Military News: The Halli and MoJoe Show Facebook Page

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Talk radio for fine minds with author of "A Year in Pajamas with President Obama" and the upcoming "Scout Finch's Diary" Halli Casser-Jayne, and her radio mastermind sidekick MoJoe.

‘Military Line’ Works to Boost Financial Fitness

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 11, 2011 – A young service member saddled with debt and in need of some quick cash doesn’t have to go far. Lenders offering same-day loans sit outside the gate of nearly every military installation in the nation.

But the lure of fast and easy cash can lead strapped troops down a path of steep interest rates and fees that far surpass their initial loan.

In other words, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, said Brenda Linnington, director of the Better Business Bureau Military Line.

Protecting service members and their families from financial pitfalls such as payday lenders is Linnington’s primary goal at Military Line. The program’s mission, she explained, is to increase military members’ financial literacy through information, education and outreach -- both online and on the ground.

“I’d like Military Line to serve as a bridge between the civilian and military communities,” said Linnington, an Army veteran and the wife of an active-duty Army officer. She took on the job in January after the former director, Holly Petraeus, left to head the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of Servicemember Affairs.

The program, created in 2004, also is a partner in the Defense Department’s Financial Readiness Campaign, she said, which gives local bureau representatives access to teach financial literacy classes on military installations. The bureau, she added, has 164 local offices scattered across the country.

The importance of a military family’s financial stability can’t be overestimated, Linnington said.

“If we’re deploying a young soldier and expecting him to do great things on our behalf, but he’s greatly in debt and collectors are calling his family,” she said, “that soldier is never going to be completely mission-ready.”

One major concern, Linnington noted, is that financial issues often lead to the loss of security clearances, which can affect service members’ ability to perform their jobs.

“To be under that level of emotional strain and then expect them to be a strong family that’s growing and thriving is unrealistic,” she said.

Debt and debt management are among the most pressing financial issues for service members and their families, she noted, particularly for the younger population. Reports indicate that junior service members carry a heavier load of debt than their civilian counterparts.

This debt combined with a steady paycheck and a strong sense of discipline can add up to an attractive target for scam artists, Linnington said. “It’s very enticing to someone looking to entrap you in a contract,” she added. “A young private might not make a large income, but collectively, if there’s a bunch of privates, that’s a lot of money.”

Linnington said the scams have come fast and furious in recent years. Some scammers contact military family members by phone or email and make false claims that the service member has been wounded overseas and money is needed to help. Or, a person posts a house for rent, but when the service member arrives, the person has vanished, along with the security deposit.

And, while payday lenders are, by law, capped at 36 percent, they find loopholes by charging fees as opposed to boosting interest rates.

“There are some really terrible things going on,” she said.

To avoid getting trapped in a scam, Linnington stressed the importance of financial education and well-being. “It’s getting people to realize they need to be careful and not necessarily go on someone’s word,” she said.

Tackling debt also can help, she said, since feeling overwhelmed financially can leave people more vulnerable to unscrupulous businesses and predatory lenders.

People who are in over their heads should talk their local personal financial manager, she advised, who can provide guidance and referrals to helping organizations, such as military aid societies.

The Military Line website also offers service-specific resources, such as consumer alerts and guides, reports on businesses, and an avenue to file complaints. The bureau will help to resolve issues and also alert the military population of a potential scam, she said.

Family Matters Blog: Child’s Tribute Stirs Emotion

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 11, 2011 – I was on call last weekend when the news broke about the downed helicopter in eastern Afghanistan. As the morning waned, it soon became clear that the nation had suffered a devastating loss.

Thirty U.S. service members and eight Afghans lost their lives in the Aug. 6 Chinook crash.

I was deeply saddened by the loss and for the loved ones left behind. But without a personal connection and with a job to do, I began to think of the fallen as a number to report rather than as individuals with faces and names.

For me, it took a child to humanize this terrible loss.

A 10-year-old who lost his father in the crash posted a picture of his dad on CNN’s iReport on Aug. 9 to ensure he wouldn’t be forgotten. His father was the pilot of the Chinook.

The picture shows his dad seated next to a four other soldiers. His father, he wrote, was the farthest to the left.

This heartfelt tribute since has gone viral, stirring up emotions across the nation. People have reached out to reassure this boy not only that his father wouldn’t be forgotten, but also that he’d be remembered as a hero.

I studied this picture and felt for this young boy, who would be growing up without a dad. And I thought about the selflessness and call to service that led his father to make the ultimate sacrifice for his nation.

I’m grateful for this child who took the time to honor his father in such a bold way. He reminded me that behind each loss, each tragedy of war, is a person with a rich past who is leaving behind a legacy of heroism and sacrifice.

Today in the Department of Defense, Friday, August 12, 2011

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center Launches Designer Drug Information Website

From Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) launched a designer-drug information website Aug. 9 to inform and educate Department of Navy personnel on the dangers of designer drug use.

According to Cmdr. Lisa McWhorter, NMCPHC Navy Drug Program Manager, the webpage page is intended to provide a "one-stop-shopping" resource for visitors to the website and includes downloadable presentations and links to other drug-related websites.

"We're hopeful that visitors to our website will find this site useful for what they need either through the presentations or the links," said McWhorter. "Education and awareness of the negative effects from the use of these drugs, plays a key role in deterrence of drug use."

The available presentations are well-suited for commands throughout the Navy and Marine Corps to use for general military training and other training venues intended to reach a broad audience ranging from leadership to the deckplate Sailor and Marine.

McWhorter said NMCPHC will manage the website to ensure that current and accurate information is added as soon as it becomes available.

The timing of the webpage launch complements the Aug. 2 release of a Navy Medicine all-hands message. Navy Surgeon General Vice Adm. Adam M. Robinson, Jr. used this message to caution his commanding officers, medical providers and personnel on the negative health effects and legal consequences of using synthetic marijuana like Spice and other designer drugs.

"It is paramount all Navy Medicine personnel are aware of the adverse health effects of these drugs," said Robinson. "Serious side effects have been reported after its use including tremors, panic attacks, delirium, impaired coordination, seizures, paranoid hallucinations, and psychotic symptoms that can last for days, even months in some cases."

The NMCPHC webpage and military leadership message provide background information on Spice and other synthetic designer drugs, including varieties, signs and symptoms of use and the negative health effects associated with use. It also increases emphasis on Zero Tolerance for possession and trafficking as well as the use of designer drugs. In the past year, hundreds of Sailors have been held accountable for use or possession of Spice or Spice derivatives. Service members can also be charged as part of the Zero Tolerance policy for failure to report an incident of abuse.

"The NMCPHC website will serve as an excellent resource to help commanding officers remain fully engaged in educating all hands on the hazards associated with synthetic drugs with a focus on spice in particular," said McWorter.

Information on designer drugs can be found at nmcphc.med.navy.mil/Healthy_Living/.

George Washington Returns to Sea After Visit to Thailand

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Juan Pinalez, USS George Washington Public Affairs

LAEM CHABANG, Thailand (NNS) -- The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed Laem Chabang, Thailand following five days of rest and relaxation for the crew during its most recent patrol Aug. 11.

"Just before we pulled into Thailand, the crew worked around the clock for 56 days at sea, so they definitely earned this time off," said George Washington Commanding Officer Capt. David Lausman. "In port, they proudly represented our country while enjoying themselves. I couldn't be prouder of them."

George Washington Sailors enjoyed tours and cultural activities offered by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation department during the port visit.

"The one thing I wanted to do in Thailand was to ride an elephant and I'm glad I did it," said Boatswain's Mate Seaman Hermajesty Ford from Fresno, Calif. "That's something I will remember for the rest of my life."

Sailors from George Washington also participated in a friendly cook-off competition at a local hotel, allowing them the opportunity to demonstrate their skills. Chefs from the hotel also took time to share a few Thai recipes with the culinary specialists.

The competition consisted of seven teams; four from USS George Washington, two from USS Cowpens (CG 63) and another from USS Mustin (DDG 89).

"Our secret ingredient was love. If you love your food, it's going to be great," said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Benjamin Batenhorst, one of the Sailors in the competition.

The crew also made a difference in the lives of Thailand's less fortunate by coordinating nearly a dozen community service (COMSERV) projects.

"These COMSERV opportunities are not only beneficial to the children but also serve to enrich the lives of the Sailors too," said Lt. Cmdr. Jose Pimentel, George Washington COMSERV coordinator. "The kids really like seeing service members from around the world, so when the crew rests and relaxes in Pattaya they can also spend time to have an impact on the lives of those living in hardship."

Thai people see these gestures of good will as true symbols of friendship, explained Pimentel. And while the goal of the port visit was to rest and relax following a long tour at sea, the crew also conducted training with the Royal Thai Navy, focusing on anti-surface warfare and search-and-rescue operations.

"We have learned a lot and are happy to have this opportunity to conduct military-to-military training," said Royal Thai Navy Commodore Somkiat Somksawat, Naval Air Division, Royal Thai Navy.

For nearly 600 people, the port visit provided them with the opportunity to tour a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. Tour groups included local businessmen, children from an orphanage, Boy Scout packs, members of a Veterans of Foreign Wars post and families from the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok. George Washington's executive officer provided a tour to a member of Thailand's royal family, Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.

George Washington returned to patrolling the waters of the Western Pacific June 12, 2011, departing her forward operating base of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. More than 5,500 Sailors are aboard from George Washington and Carrier Air Wing 5. George Washington's mission is to ensure security and stability in the 7th Fleet AOR and to be in position to work with our allies and regional partners to respond to any crisis across the operational spectrum as directed.

Face of Defense: Dad Takes Oath From Son After Service Break

By Air Force Airman 1st Class Jarrod Grammel

23rd Wing

VALDOSTA, Ga., Aug. 11, 2011 – Nineteen years after separating from the active duty Air Force, Scott Long enlisted into the Air Force Reserve. Now he's a staff sergeant, serving with the 476th Maintenance Squadron as a fuel systems craftsman.

Long's son, Army 2nd Lt. Brandon Long, 1-169th Aviation Support Battalion liaison officer, presided over the July 28 ceremony.

"When I decided to re-enlist, I was looking into the future," said the elder Long, 51. "I always regretted getting out, even though it was the right decision at the time."

Before his separation in 1992 after 11 years of service, Long was stationed in numerous countries and states, finally settling down at Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

"What makes Sergeant Long a special case is that he has a 19-year break in service," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Walker, Eastern Recruiting Squadron line recruiter. "He will bring back knowledge and heritage to the newer generation of airmen."

Lieutenant Long was happy to have the chance to preside over his father's re-enlistment ceremony.

"It's a special event, and a rare opportunity to do a re-enlistment ceremony as a young officer, especially for my father," he said. "I'm really happy for him. He has been talking about re-enlisting for a long time, and he is happy to have the chance to serve his country again."

The lieutenant, who is waiting to leave for pilot training, was commissioned in May during a ceremony in which his father pinned on his rank.

"It has been a dream of mine to serve in the military ever since I was young," the lieutenant said. "I really wanted to join the Air Force, but my college only had an Army ROTC program. I got a slot for pilot training in the Army, and I have always wanted to fly, so it didn't matter which service.

"My father's service definitely influenced my decision to join the military," he added. "It's a family legacy. His father was a Marine in World War II, and my other grandfather was in the Navy."

At more than 50 years old and 19 years after leaving active duty, Sergeant Long faced challenges when re-enlisting.

"The biggest challenge in re-enlisting after all this time was making sure I was physically fit," he said. "You also have to make sure you are still medically qualified."

Only a few months after his son's commissioning and 19 years after leaving active duty, Long is glad to be back in uniform.

"I am just proud to have the opportunity to serve my country again,” he said, “and contribute more than just my tax dollars."

Obama Honors Fallen Muslim-American Soldier at Iftar

By Donna Miles

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 11, 2011 – President Barack Obama paid tribute to a fallen soldier during an iftar dinner at the White House last night as an example of contributions Muslim-Americans have made to America’s diversity and freedoms.

Recognizing the upcoming 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, Obama noted the diverse backgrounds of Americans – including Muslim-Americans -- who suffered during the attacks, rushed to their aid as first responders and continue to serve in harm’s way protecting American freedoms.

“During 10 hard years of war, our troops have served with excellence and with honor,” he said, with some making the ultimate sacrifice for the United States.

Among them was 20-year-old Army Spc. Kareem Rashad Sultan Kahn, a member of 2nd Infantry Division’s 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Lewis, Wash. Khan was among four U.S. soldiers killed by a roadside bomb in Baqouba, Iraq, on Aug. 6, 2007.

“Galvanized by 9/11 to serve his country, he gave his life in Iraq and now rests with his fellow heroes at Arlington,” the president said. A Muslim crescent marks Kahn’s grave, just as crosses and stars mark the graves of fallen Christian and Jewish heroes.

“Like Kareem, this generation has earned its place in history,” Obama said last night. He asked all servicemembers at the iftar celebration to stand to accept their fellow guests’ applause.

“This year and every year, we must ask ourselves: How do we honor these patriots --those who died and those who served?” the president said. “In this season of remembrance, the answer is the same as it was 10 years ago. We must be the America they lived for and the America they died for --the America they sacrificed for.”

That, he explained, is an accepting America that stays true to its core values and recognizes its diversity as its strength. It’s also a nation that “stands up for dignity and the rights of people around the world, whether a young person demanding his or her freedom in the Middle East or North Africa, or a hungry child in the Horn of Africa, where we are working to save lives,” he said.

Obama called the iftar “part of a rich tradition here at the White House of celebrating the holy days of the many faiths and the diversity that define us as a nation.”

An iftar is a meal served at the day's end during Ramadan, which began Aug. 1 this year and continues through Aug. 29.

Ramadan is the Islamic faith's holiest time and commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad. Through fasting, prayer and worship, Muslims reflect on their spiritual lives and their dependence on God as they strengthen family and community ties.

Doctors Caution Colon Cleansers May Clean Body of Nutrients

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexandra Snyder, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Doctors at the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) encouraged Sailors to avoid using unhealthy measures, like colon cleansers, to meet physical standards Aug. 11.

While the manufacturers of these cleansers claim they help shed pounds and free the body of toxins, Capt. Brooks Cash, Chief of Medicine for NNMC and Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) said these could potentially lead to severe health hazards.

"There is a belief that stool in your colon clogs like a pipe and occasionally needs cleaning out. That is a myth," said Cash.

Additionally, there is no evidence of improved health with colon cleansing and over-the-counter medicinal laxatives and enemas used to perform these "cleansings," said Cash, who is also Professor of Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. He added that such rituals can lead to dehydration and potentially deadly electrolyte abnormalities.

In reality, the food we eat is not stored for long periods within the body. It is broken down into one- to two-millimeter particles of basic sugars, fats and proteins in the stomach. It is then absorbed by the small intestine where it is used to nourish the body. The unusable particles are sent to the colon where water is reabsorbed to form solid stool. This waste is then expelled from the body, Cash explained.

"Humans have been around for a pretty long time," he added. "There is no reason to use colon cleansers when your body has adapted to do such a good job of that on its own."

Touting such benefits as weight loss, shinier hair and greater overall health with the removal of "toxins" that build up in consumers' digestive tract, colon cleansers come in the form of pills, powders to be mixed with liquid and enemas; however, reading the fine print on the labels of these "ultimate colon cleansers" reveals such common side effects as nausea, vomiting, intestinal cramping, drowsiness and fatigue.

"There are numerous reports that these cleansers, especially the high colonics, have caused direct harm to patient's bodies, such as infections, colonic perforation, and even death," said Lt. Cmdr. Ruben Acosta, staff gastroenterologist and Assistant Professor of Medicine at USU. "These types of injuries and infections are especially prevalent because the cleanse is performed by alternative practitioners who are not subject to the same safety or hygiene regulations that protect the patients who undergo standard medical procedures."

Cash added that colon cleanser manufacturers take advantage of people by capitalizing on their fears of being overweight, unattractive or unhealthy. To combat those issues and sustain health, he recommends patients eat fiber, maintain an ideal body weight, exercise, not smoke and use alcohol only moderately, if at all.

"Another critically important preventative measure to take is to begin colon cancer screening at the appropriate ages," said Cash.

According to Cash, the only common reason other than problematic, severe constipation to do a colon cleanse is in preparation for a colonoscopy or virtual colonoscopy, two of the colon cancer screening options offered by the Gastroenterology Service at NNMC.

Patients with no family history of colon cancer should begin screening at age 50, regardless of gender; African-Americans should start at age 45. Anyone with at least two grandparents or one parent or sibling who suffered from colon cancer should begin screening at age 40 or 10 years before the age the relative was diagnosed.

"Colon cancer is the third most common cause of cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death in the US; however, it is largely preventable." said Cash. "Screening needs to occur every five to ten years, regardless of symptoms, as colon cancer is often silent until too late."

For more information about colon cancer screenings, contact your primary care manager.

What Do Most Baby Boomers Have in Common?

Baby Boomers have something in common. They can trace a connection all the way back to World War II. At least the vast majority of them can. With over 16 million American men and women having served, it is rare indeed to come across a Boomer who has no family ties dating back to the War.

Some have fathers who were veterans and the lucky ones still count that parent among the living. Others have already lost a family member and still some born during the War (not technically Boomers but right around that age) lost a parent they never got to know.

Facing their own mortality, these Boomers have rummaged through the footlockers and cigar boxes in attics and closets all over America to better understand what it was like in World War II and what their parents had to endure.

If they were lucky they found a medal or two, some old unit insignia, a photo and perhaps a war souvenir (American GIs were notorious in their pursuit of war memorabilia). They may have found some evidence of what the Homefront was like with rationing, scrap drives and twenty million Victory Gardens. It was a place where the women built the planes and ships while their men (just boys, really) went off to fight in faraway places they couldn't pronounce or even find on a map.

The dog-eared pictures of men in uniform frozen in their youth and naivety usually elicit a tear or two. Motivated by these scraps of history and gripped with a sense of great curiosity, the Boomers began to dig deeper. They found an imperfect America with boundless virtues and vexing shortcomings awakening from the Great Depression to take up arms to defend their country.

Everyone served or at least tried to serve. The stigma of not being in uniform was so intense it drove some to suicide. Hollywood actors (like Charlton Heston, Jimmy Stewart, Clark Gable and Henry Fonda) led the way and other celebrities followed. Over five hundred men who would return to play major league baseball volunteered, including superstars like Ted Williams, Stan Musial and Joe DiMaggio. President Roosevelt's son James was a Marine Raider and former President Teddy Roosevelt's son Teddy Jr. won The Medal of Honor at Normandy. It was rare that anyone felt exempt or entitled to a deferment. It certainly was different from the attitudes of today. The more the Boomers learned, the more interested they became in the life and times of their parents.

Today, both the interest and connection back to that time is extremely strong. Most Boomers are intensely proud of what their relatives accomplished. A peaceful nation wanting no part of the trouble raging around the globe was dragged into the War by being attacked on a peaceful Sunday morning. From victim to victor in less than 4 years!

But America had its trials and tribulations with racial and gender bias and struggled with these issues throughout the War. A segregated military and a condescending attitude toward women made it extremely difficult for these groups to fully participate and prove themselves. But not impossible!

Many women joined non-combat units (WACS and WAVES) as nurses and administrators and yet 16 were awarded Purple Hearts for wounds received. Those who stayed home went into the factories and built the victuals of war; they fueled the "arsenal of democracy". And another group, numbering over one thousand, ferried fighter planes and bombers from war plants to bases, freeing up men for combat. They did this for two-thirds the pay and no military benefits despite 38 being killed in the line of duty.

No Medals of Honor were awarded to African-Americans during World War II despite over 1 million serving and fifty thousand being assigned to combat jobs. The "colored" combat units were "experimental" with political forces pushing in both directions (more units or none). But these elements proved themselves in combat and in 1997, seven African-Americans were awarded the Medal of Honor, six posthumously, in an East Room Ceremony at the White House.

Some claim that these were dark days for social justice in American history and a chapter we should all be ashamed of. I would rather think of those times as the turning point in gender and racial relations in America. The realization of true equal opportunity for African-Americans and women in our country can justifiably be dated to the War.

So it is with some satisfaction that Boomers reach back into their family histories and take great pride in their ancestors' contribution to an America united as never before or since. And as we say goodbye to the last of them at the rate of 1,000 per day, we should never forget them nor neglect to honor them for what they accomplished in preserving our way of life.

The Last Jump is both a stirring tribute and a "thank you" to all who served the United States, in any capacity, during the greatest conflagration in history. I would like to also thank my readers, especially all the Boomers out there, for their wonderful reviews, gracious comments and support for the book.

I only wish I could have written it better.

John E. Nevola
Follow me on Twitter --> @TheLastJump
http://www.thelastjump.com

Coast Guard Rescues Marine Aviators

The Coast Guard is often forgotten when people think of military heroes.  Read these Coast Guard books written by these forgotten heroes and know their story and example.

From a U.S. Coast Guard Public Affairs Detachment San Diego News Release:

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 11, 2011 – Coast Guard crews rescued two Marines after their F/A-18 Hornet jet from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., crashed into the Pacific Ocean about 85 miles southwest of here last night.

Both Marines were reported to be in stable condition.

After notification of the downed aircraft at 10:15 p.m., the Coast Guard launched assets to begin the rescue mission. Once on the scene, the Coast Guard Cutter Edisto heard the Marines and vectored the Coast Guard MH-60 Jahawk helicopter to the survivors' location. The Jahawk's aircrew maneuvered into position, and the rescue swimmer deployed to recover the Marines, who were hoisted into the helicopter and flown to a hospital.

In addition to the Edisto, homeported here, the Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau from Alameda, Calif., a C-130 Hercules aircraft from Air Station Sacramento -- the first asset on the scene --and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Sector San Diego responded.

Frontline Psych with Doc Bender: Serving Those Who Served

By Dr. James Bender, DCoE psychologist

Dr. James Bender is a former Army psychologist who deployed to Iraq as the brigade psychologist for the 1st Cavalry Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team out of Fort Hood, Texas. During his deployment, he traveled through Southern Iraq, from Basra to Baghdad. He writes a monthly post for the DCoE Blog on psychological health concerns related to deployment and being in the military.

Hello. It’s been an action-packed week as I was in Washington, D.C., recently for the American Psychological Association (APA) annual convention. I joined about 12,000 fellow psychologists to discuss a variety of topics, including the psychological health of service members and programs highlighting our latest research.

I presented at the workshop, Serving Those Who Served: Partnering with Returning Veterans to Aid Transitions, which was a forum for psychologists to become aware of information, resources and techniques to use when assisting this increasing population. As we know, military and civilian psychologists have an important role: as troops return from deployment, many will seek their help to cope with issues that may arise upon their return home. Keeping this in mind, among the points I emphasized at the training were:

■Don’t be too quick to diagnose a combat veteran: It’s normal for a returning service member to have some nightmares, be jittery around crowds, or feel nervous behind the wheel. However, it’s not normal if combat-related symptoms don’t decrease in a few months: the service member isn’t sleeping at all, has flashbacks, or doesn’t ever want to leave their room.

■Families matter too: Military families (spouses, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.) are also affected by deployment, so it’s important to understand their unique challenges. They can be a great source of information and support and are an important part of treatment.

■Drug and alcohol abuse should be taken seriously: Many people, including service members, like to drink and it’s usually not a problem. But if someone is drinking to calm their anxiety, if it’s the only way they can sleep, or if they’re drinking more and more to achieve the same effect (developing tolerance) it’s time for professional intervention.

■It’s important to be familiar with military culture: There are many qualified psychologists who have never served in uniform and are capable of treating military-related mental health concerns. However, it’s important that a treating provider is familiar with the basics of military life and the impact war can have on their patients.

I left the convention happy to know that the largest professional organization of psychologists is dedicated to helping veterans and service members with their mental health needs. However, they can’t help if military personnel and family members aren’t accessing treatment. If you or someone you know needs help, connect to support and resources by visiting www.realwarriors.net or call the DCoE Outreach Center at 866-966-1020.

Thanks for reading and for your service.

Bethesda Blood Center Seeks Platelet Donors

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dion Dawson, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) held a blood drive Aug. 9 at the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) in an effort to help save lives of military members.

The ASBP is constantly seeking blood and platelet donors. Platelets - small, colorless cells found in blood - are involved in clotting and can be donated through a process known as apheresis.

"Apheresis is a medical procedure that involves removing whole blood from a donor or patient and separating the blood into individual components so that one particular component can be removed," said Mary Lewis, supervisor of the Apheresis Department at NNMC. "After the platelets are collected, the remaining blood components then are re-introduced back into the bloodstream of the patient or donor."

"The need is there," said Lewis. "If you have a person who is bleeding from trauma, injuries sustained in combat or has a low platelet count from chemotherapy, it helps to stop bleeding. We continuously encourage platelet donation because platelets are good for five days, while blood is good for 42 days after it is donated, so we constantly need to increase our amount of platelet products due to the quickness of the expiration."

An individual can donate platelets every two weeks, up to 24 times a year, but when giving regular red blood, a person must wait eight weeks before donating again.

Lewis went on to explain the process of donating platelets.

"Before we prepare to extract platelets, we have to verify that the person's red cells, white cells and platelets are at a certain level to be able to donate," she stated. "After that, they will complete a questionnaire, travel form and initial interview. The requirements of the donor are similar to giving blood, but the collection process takes longer. While donating, the donor is attached to a machine that extracts blood, separates it, takes some plasma and platelets and gives everything else back. It is a continuous process that lasts between 60 to 90 minutes."

The amount of time the process takes also depends on the donor's height, weight, blood and platelet count.

"We need to continue to expand and increase our database of donors through word of mouth and support from the command," said Reynald Weidner, an apheresis technician at NNMC. "It gives me a good feeling knowing that the more supplies we have ready means more opportunities for patients to receive transfusion services that's needed."

Weidner said it's part of her job to sit down with the donors and explain the importance of giving and the people who benefit from the donation.

"My job involves platelet collection, recruiting donors and spreading it through word of mouth. It is more than just collecting the platelets. I always encourage people to donate," she added.

As supervisor, Lewis said she has a hand in everything related to the department, especially when it comes to making sure the department gets the platelet donors needed for patients at NNMC.

"It is the donor's responsibility to come to us healthy, not having taken any medications that we mentioned, stay hydrated and having eaten a calcium-rich diet the day before," she said. "The machine bonds with the calcium and allows the blood not to clot during the collection process. We have [an] appointment system set up, so that anyone interested in donating can go online and set up their own appointment."

Donors cannot take any aspirin 72 hours before donating and any non-steroidal medicine for 24 hours prior. For more information about the ASBP, visit militaryblood.dod.mil.

San Diego Sailors Attend Personal Readiness Summit

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Behnke, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- A series of subject matter experts provided San Diego-area Sailors with current information on a variety of Navy issues during a personal readiness summit Aug. 8-9.

"The goal is to provide Sailors and leadership the opportunity to hear from different people and build their awareness," said Navy Region Southwest Command Master Chief Nancy Hollingsworth. "To create that culture of training and awareness on the topics of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPR), the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program and the Physical Readiness Program."

Naval Base Coronado hosted the first day of the summit, and the second day was a repeat held on Naval Base San Diego. The purpose of holding the summit over two days was to ensure the opportunity for maximum participation from command personnel.

The morning was dedicated to the topic of sexual assault in the military. Anne Munch, an attorney and key figure in the development of the Navy's SAPR program, gave the audience some often startling and eye-opening facts regarding sexual assault in the services.

"I think it opened quite a few eyes as to what constitutes sexual assault," said Jeannette Casillas, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) at the Naval Base Coronado Fleet and Family Support Center. "I hope they are ready to go back to their commands and talk about it and set a command climate of zero tolerance with respect to sexual assault."

The afternoon was dedicated to informing key command personnel of changes in the Physical Readiness Program and the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program.

"I think you're going to see a lot more of these workshops in different areas of the Navy," said Hollingsworth. "This workshop is not the single answer to addressing these issues, but it is a resource and hopefully people take the information back to their commands and inform their Sailors."

Today in the Department of Defense, Thursday, August 11, 2011

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

This Day in Naval History - Aug. 10

From the Navy News Service

1916 - First Naval aircraft production contract, for the N-9 "Jenny."

1921 - General Order establishes the Bureau of Aeronautics under Rear Adm. William Moffett.

1944 - Guam secured by U.S. forces.

1964 - Signing of Gulf of Tonkin Resolution which is used as the starting point of the Vietnam War.

Navy Surgeon General Recognized by Japanese Ministry of Defense

From Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

TOKYO (NNS) -- The Navy Surgeon General was recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Defense Aug. 9 for his work in supporting the Department of the Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and for his contributions to improving global public health.

In a ceremony held at the Japanese Ministry of Defense headquarters, Japanese Adm. Masahiko Sugimoto, Chief of Staff for Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force presented Vice Adm. Adam M. Robinson Jr. with a letter of appreciation on behalf of Minister of Defense Toshimi Itazawa. Robinson was the 55th person to receive such an honor in the Ministry of Defense's history.

Robinson was recognized for his contributions in improving the exchange and interoperability between medical commands of the Navy and JMSDF both in Japan and abroad. He was also thanked for his work during earthquake relief efforts, developing an extern program for JMSDF medical officers at U.S. Naval Hospitals in Japan and for his medical support to JMSDF personnel deployed to Djibouti.

"Thank you on behalf of the Japanese people for all your support following the earthquake," said Sugimoto. "Your medical support during your tour as the U.S. Navy's Surgeon General has helped not only the people of Japan, but the world."

Robinson said he was especially honored given his close ties with Japan following several tours in the country, including serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway (CV 41) and at U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka.

"I am very honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the men and women of Navy Medicine," said Robinson. "I appreciate the true camaraderie, collegiality and friendship that exists between Navy Medicine, the U.S. Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force. The relationship we have with [the] JMSDF medical team has benefited both nations greatly and we look forward to our continued partnership."

As the Navy Surgeon General and Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Robinson leads 63,000 Navy Medicine personnel who provide healthcare support to the Navy and Marine Corps, their families and veterans in high operational tempo environments, at expeditionary medical facilities, medical treatment facilities, hospitals, clinics, hospital ships and research units around the world.

The Last Jump: A Novel of World War II

With the addition of John E. Nevola, Military-Writers.com lists 1262 current, former and retired U.S. military servicemembers who have authored nearly 4000 books.


Specialist 5 John E. Nevola, USA served from 1966 to 1968. During his military service he was assigned to the U.S. Army Meteorological Command, Yuma Proving Ground - Yuma, Arizona. John E. Nevola “makes his literary debut with The Last Jump, a historical novel based on United States airborne operations in Europe during World War II. The study of this conflict has been the author’s lifelong passion and he weaves a compelling tale of courage and sacrifice set in a historically accurate backdrop in an extraordinary time in American history.

A retired Information Technology executive, John E. Nevola has been widely published in business magazines with numerous articles on disaster recovery and terrorism. He authored a column for a post newspaper while serving in the United States Army and is a member of the Military Writer’s Society of America.

John E. Nevola was born in New York City and is a graduate of Cardinal Hayes High School and the College of Aeronautics. He resides in Mount Olive, New Jersey with his wife of 45 years. They have four children and six grandchildren. A portion of the proceeds from The Last Jump are donated to charity to assist the families of the fallen.

According to the book description of The Last Jump: A Novel of World War II, it “is a war story, a mystery, a love tale, and a tribute to the people who won World War II. Fact and fiction intermix seamlessly to unravel a secret passionately guarded by four aging soldiers. The reader is transported back in time to an imperfect America, with all is incredible virtues and vexing shortcomings, struggling with racial and gender issues while fighting for its very survival. It was a time when Americans stood shoulder to shoulder to free the world from tyranny. It celebrates the spirit and courage of ordinary citizens pitted against the militaristic regimes of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. It was a time when the sons of presidents and senators served, fought, suffered and died alongside average Americans and famous celebrities.

J.P. Kilroy, a middle-aged divorced journalist, regrets ignoring his mother’s deathbed request. Even her last letter, which told of the existence of a mysterious family secret, did not motivate him to reconcile with the father who left them 30 years ago. When he receives an invitation from the White House to attend a Medal of Honor awards ceremony for African-Americans, he also discovers his estranged father recently passed away. Was the secret now lost forever?

Kilroy also discovers that four aging veterans, the only links to the past, not only know the secret but swore an oath never to reveal it. They are the free-spirited Sky Johnson, a rough and tumble paratrooper, Frank West, the studious company commander, Harley Tidrick, Omaha Beach veteran and cousin of his father's best wartime buddy, and Lincoln Abraham, the only living black honoree at the ceremony.

With the aid of Cynthia Powers, an alluring Army press liaison, Kilroy accepts the challenge to cajole the veterans into revealing the mystery. Their conversations take him back in time to a country in grave danger but a country as united as never before or since. But the old warriors stubbornly resist until the last one passes on and Kilroy's hopes are dashed. But one reaches from beyond the grave to identify the only other person who has the answer and Kilroy races death to reach her. And a shocking conclusion awaits him, if only he can get there in time!”