By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
March 8, 2007 – One of the Defense Department's top officials said today he is not surprised that servicemembers get different disability ratings from each of the services, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Social Security Administration. They are three different systems governed by their own sets of laws and rate disabilities using scales unique to each department, said Dr. David S. C. Chu, the defense undersecretary for personnel and readiness.
Each system has "fundamentally different approaches to the basis on which you should rate the individual. It is, therefore, not surprising that they reach different answers," Chu said.
"From the individual's perspective, this is surely complex ... and frustrating in its character," he said.
Appearing before the House Armed Services Committee today, Chu expressed confidence that, with legislative support, the system could be fixed.
DoD currently is revising its disability evaluation system. Each service manages its own evaluation process within the framework of the DoD system.
The Assistant Defense Secretary for health affairs, Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., said servicemembers deserve fair, consistent and timely determinations.
"Complex procedures should be streamlined or removed. The system must not be adversarial, and people should not have to go through a maze or prove themselves to get the benefits they deserve," Winkenwerder said.
He said now is the time to question the system and make changes needed for servicemembers and their families.
"It's turning back to the bureaucracy and saying, 'Why can't we do it this way,'" Winkenwerder said. "If it's not meeting the needs of the customer, it's not getting the job done".
The Army's top officer said that now is the time for a "top-down" overhaul.
"There is an opportunity here that I hope we take. That is to fix things comprehensively," Army Chief of Staff Gen. Peter J. Schoomaker said.
"This isn't about painting things and dealing with mildew and fixing some administrative processes," he said.
About 900 active-duty soldiers are in medical holding units around the Army, said Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin C. Kiley. About 3,200 reserve-component soldiers are in a holdover status, including about 1,800 who have returned home and use local hospital systems to complete their care.
In fiscal 2006, service eligibility board caseloads were 13,162 for the Army, 5,684 for the navy services, and 4,139 for the Air Force. In 2001, the numbers were: 7,218 for the Army, 4,999 for the naval services and 2,816 in the Air Force.
Police and military personnel who have authored books along with criminal justice online leadership sponsored this article.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
China Not Strategic Adversary of U.S., Gates Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
March 8, 2007 – China is not a strategic adversary of the United States, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said during a news roundtable yesterday. "I do not see China at this point as a strategic adversary of the United States," Gates said. "It's a partner in some respects. It's a competitor in other respects. And so we are simply watching to see what they're doing."
Chinese government officials announced last week that the Chinese military budget would increase 17 percent. This would be the 19th year of double-digit growth in defense spending, DoD officials said. China will budget roughly $45 billion for defense.
However, the real size of the Chinese budget could be twice as much, a defense official said today on background. The nature of the regime is such that defense spending could be hidden, and this lack of transparency is a hindrance to better Sino-American relations, the official said.
"I think that greater transparency would help from the standpoint of the Chinese in terms of both what they're doing and what their strategies are, their intent in modernizing their forces. A greater openness about the purposes (would help)," Gates said during the roundtable. "My guess is that what they've announced does not represent their entire military budget. ... I think one of the most significant things they could do to provide reassurance to people is greater openness or transparency about what they're doing."
The increase alone doesn't worry Gates, as the money will buy more capability, but does not reveal the country's intentions. China is building its capabilities and, over the past 20 years, has moved forward on modernizing and streamlining the Peoples' Liberation Army and its rocket forces. The country also recently conducted a successful anti-satellite missile test.
In addition, the Chinese have invested in more and quieter submarines, state-of-the-art fighter/bombers and better communications and computer equipment for command and control purposes, DoD officials said.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace agreed that the Chinese have built capabilities, but tried to provide context on whether China is a threat to the United States. "A threat has two fundamental parts to it: One is capacity, and two is intent," Pace said. "When you see the global capacity growing in any area, we need to make sure that the United States military's capable of handling any threat that might develop, without regard to current intent.
"This is why in the budget, ... there's not only the money for continuing the global war on terror, but also ensuring that we have the Air Force we need, the Navy we need and all the things that we need for conventional battle, so that our potential adversaries don't miscalculate our capacities," he added.
Pace said the United States doesn't develop capacities aimed at any one country.
"We look at the types of capacities that are coming on line, regardless of country," the general said. "We assure ourselves that we can deal with that capacity and that we have overmatching capacity for that. And where we don't, ... we ask in the budget for the funding to be able to address that gap."
Pace said in Indonesia in February that it was important to keep engaging China.
"Trade between the United States and China has grown exponentially in the last several years; that is good," he said during a news conference in Jakarta on Feb. 13. "I think the more nations trade with each other and become dependent on each other, the less likely they are going to find their way into some kind of a conflict."
Police and military personnel who have authored books along with criminal justice online leadership sponsored this article.
American Forces Press Service
March 8, 2007 – China is not a strategic adversary of the United States, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said during a news roundtable yesterday. "I do not see China at this point as a strategic adversary of the United States," Gates said. "It's a partner in some respects. It's a competitor in other respects. And so we are simply watching to see what they're doing."
Chinese government officials announced last week that the Chinese military budget would increase 17 percent. This would be the 19th year of double-digit growth in defense spending, DoD officials said. China will budget roughly $45 billion for defense.
However, the real size of the Chinese budget could be twice as much, a defense official said today on background. The nature of the regime is such that defense spending could be hidden, and this lack of transparency is a hindrance to better Sino-American relations, the official said.
"I think that greater transparency would help from the standpoint of the Chinese in terms of both what they're doing and what their strategies are, their intent in modernizing their forces. A greater openness about the purposes (would help)," Gates said during the roundtable. "My guess is that what they've announced does not represent their entire military budget. ... I think one of the most significant things they could do to provide reassurance to people is greater openness or transparency about what they're doing."
The increase alone doesn't worry Gates, as the money will buy more capability, but does not reveal the country's intentions. China is building its capabilities and, over the past 20 years, has moved forward on modernizing and streamlining the Peoples' Liberation Army and its rocket forces. The country also recently conducted a successful anti-satellite missile test.
In addition, the Chinese have invested in more and quieter submarines, state-of-the-art fighter/bombers and better communications and computer equipment for command and control purposes, DoD officials said.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace agreed that the Chinese have built capabilities, but tried to provide context on whether China is a threat to the United States. "A threat has two fundamental parts to it: One is capacity, and two is intent," Pace said. "When you see the global capacity growing in any area, we need to make sure that the United States military's capable of handling any threat that might develop, without regard to current intent.
"This is why in the budget, ... there's not only the money for continuing the global war on terror, but also ensuring that we have the Air Force we need, the Navy we need and all the things that we need for conventional battle, so that our potential adversaries don't miscalculate our capacities," he added.
Pace said the United States doesn't develop capacities aimed at any one country.
"We look at the types of capacities that are coming on line, regardless of country," the general said. "We assure ourselves that we can deal with that capacity and that we have overmatching capacity for that. And where we don't, ... we ask in the budget for the funding to be able to address that gap."
Pace said in Indonesia in February that it was important to keep engaging China.
"Trade between the United States and China has grown exponentially in the last several years; that is good," he said during a news conference in Jakarta on Feb. 13. "I think the more nations trade with each other and become dependent on each other, the less likely they are going to find their way into some kind of a conflict."
Police and military personnel who have authored books along with criminal justice online leadership sponsored this article.
Top Commander in Korea Wants to End One-Year Tours
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
March 7, 2007 – The top U.S. commander in Korea today said he wants to end one-year tours there and replace them with standard three-year tours, enabling more family members to move to the region. U.S. and Republic of Korea forces have reached a transformation and re-stationing agreement that will move troops away from the northern, more hostile combat zones to two safer "hubs" south of Seoul, Army Gen. Burwell B. Bell, commander of U.S. Forces Korea told members of the House Armed Services Committee.
"It's time to end our one-year, war-zone rotational tours, which needlessly add to our high worldwide operational tempo, while handicapping our engagement opportunities with our longtime Korean ally," Bell said. "I'm advocating three-year, normal family-accompanied tours for our small force in Korea. It is absolutely the right thing to do."
Under the plan, the combined forces will transition command and control of the Korean military to Korean leaders by 2012, Bell said. The Republic of Korea has agreed to fund most of the costs associated with moving the troops, and the move will allow U.S. officials to focus on improving living and working conditions there, Bell said.
Bell said that only two percent, or 30,000, of active-duty servicemembers are stationed in Korea. More than 60 percent are married, he said.
Currently about 5,000 family members are stationed in Korea. Only about 3,000 are authorized, Bell said. Family members are sometimes allowed to move there at their own expense and can use military facilities on a space-available basis.
The change will allow a cultural exchange between the families of the two countries, Bell said. He added that he'd like to see Korea become an assignment "where families engage culturally and in partnership. On the weekends they get to know each other and make life-long friends."
"The ability to build the alliance one family at a time is all lost because my servicemembers are sitting in the barracks lonely because they are missing their family," he said.
While he remains cautious of North Korea's long-term military objectives, Bell said that there is less of a threat now, and the Republic of Korea army is a capable, competent force.
"The Republic of Korea military is extremely competent. They are a modern nation with a modern military, modern battle-command capabilities and very good equipment," Bell said.
"Our air and naval forces, in conjunction with the Republic of Korea army are much more than a match for the North Korean army," Bell said.
The transformation will result in a new independent and supporting U.S. joint command. The U.S. will maintain clear command over all American forces, Bell said.
After commanding troops there for the past year, Bell gave high praise for the relationship between U.S. and Korean forces.
"The Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance is enduring and continues to function as a pillar of national security and regional security in that area of the world," he said.
Police and military personnel who have authored books along with criminal justice online leadership sponsored this article.
American Forces Press Service
March 7, 2007 – The top U.S. commander in Korea today said he wants to end one-year tours there and replace them with standard three-year tours, enabling more family members to move to the region. U.S. and Republic of Korea forces have reached a transformation and re-stationing agreement that will move troops away from the northern, more hostile combat zones to two safer "hubs" south of Seoul, Army Gen. Burwell B. Bell, commander of U.S. Forces Korea told members of the House Armed Services Committee.
"It's time to end our one-year, war-zone rotational tours, which needlessly add to our high worldwide operational tempo, while handicapping our engagement opportunities with our longtime Korean ally," Bell said. "I'm advocating three-year, normal family-accompanied tours for our small force in Korea. It is absolutely the right thing to do."
Under the plan, the combined forces will transition command and control of the Korean military to Korean leaders by 2012, Bell said. The Republic of Korea has agreed to fund most of the costs associated with moving the troops, and the move will allow U.S. officials to focus on improving living and working conditions there, Bell said.
Bell said that only two percent, or 30,000, of active-duty servicemembers are stationed in Korea. More than 60 percent are married, he said.
Currently about 5,000 family members are stationed in Korea. Only about 3,000 are authorized, Bell said. Family members are sometimes allowed to move there at their own expense and can use military facilities on a space-available basis.
The change will allow a cultural exchange between the families of the two countries, Bell said. He added that he'd like to see Korea become an assignment "where families engage culturally and in partnership. On the weekends they get to know each other and make life-long friends."
"The ability to build the alliance one family at a time is all lost because my servicemembers are sitting in the barracks lonely because they are missing their family," he said.
While he remains cautious of North Korea's long-term military objectives, Bell said that there is less of a threat now, and the Republic of Korea army is a capable, competent force.
"The Republic of Korea military is extremely competent. They are a modern nation with a modern military, modern battle-command capabilities and very good equipment," Bell said.
"Our air and naval forces, in conjunction with the Republic of Korea army are much more than a match for the North Korean army," Bell said.
The transformation will result in a new independent and supporting U.S. joint command. The U.S. will maintain clear command over all American forces, Bell said.
After commanding troops there for the past year, Bell gave high praise for the relationship between U.S. and Korean forces.
"The Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance is enduring and continues to function as a pillar of national security and regional security in that area of the world," he said.
Police and military personnel who have authored books along with criminal justice online leadership sponsored this article.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Wrestlers Offers Free Tickets to Troops
By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Servicemembers can take advantage of the generosity of professional wrestlers by getting free admittance into World Wrestling Entertainment events worldwide. Members of the military can receive a free ticket to WWE events, based on availability and excluding WrestleMania events, when they provide valid identification to the box office on performance day.
"As a company, we feel that if it wasn't for troops laying their lives on the line we couldn't do what we do every day here in the states," said Sue Aitchison, senior manager for community relations.
WWE became a corporate partner with the Defense Department's America Supports You program in May 2005. America Supports You connects the nation's support of the troops directly to servicemembers and their families.
World Wrestling Entertainment has been a long-time supporter of the armed forces by visiting the wounded in military hospitals overseas and at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here and the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.
For the past three years, WWE superstars have traveled to Iraq to tape a televised holiday special that was broadcast to Americans and troops around the globe. They also have sent millions of dollars worth of T-shirts, videos, promotional items, magazines and compact discs to military personnel operating on the front lines.
"It is our philosophy that it doesn't matter what one's political preference is; we have to support these guys," Aitchison said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Servicemembers can take advantage of the generosity of professional wrestlers by getting free admittance into World Wrestling Entertainment events worldwide. Members of the military can receive a free ticket to WWE events, based on availability and excluding WrestleMania events, when they provide valid identification to the box office on performance day.
"As a company, we feel that if it wasn't for troops laying their lives on the line we couldn't do what we do every day here in the states," said Sue Aitchison, senior manager for community relations.
WWE became a corporate partner with the Defense Department's America Supports You program in May 2005. America Supports You connects the nation's support of the troops directly to servicemembers and their families.
World Wrestling Entertainment has been a long-time supporter of the armed forces by visiting the wounded in military hospitals overseas and at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here and the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.
For the past three years, WWE superstars have traveled to Iraq to tape a televised holiday special that was broadcast to Americans and troops around the globe. They also have sent millions of dollars worth of T-shirts, videos, promotional items, magazines and compact discs to military personnel operating on the front lines.
"It is our philosophy that it doesn't matter what one's political preference is; we have to support these guys," Aitchison said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
European Command Deputy Strengthens Partnerships in East Africa
By Tech. Sgt. Devin L. Fisher, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – A week-long visit by the deputy commander of U.S. European Command to five East African nations focused on fostering relationships and improving bilateral military engagements in the region. Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward returned March 3 from a trip that included meeting with Ethiopian and African Union officials, as well as addressing the Africa Center for Strategic Studies' Senior Leaders Seminar, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He also met with senior leaders in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania.
U.S. European Command has responsibility for U.S. operations in most areas of Africa.
Ward reinforced the importance of fostering partnerships as he presented the Senior Leaders Seminar attendees with a brief look at the current security environment, followed by a top-down approach to U.S. engagement in Africa. He also provided an overview of the recently announced U.S. Africa Command, designed to focus the Department of Defense, Department of State and other U.S. government institutions in cooperating with African partners to achieve a more stable and secure environment for Africa.
Ward visited key leaders in the four other East African nations to get perspectives on issues affecting bilateral military engagements in the region. The nations "play an active role in maintaining security and stability in the region," Ward said. "We support these nations' contributions to the cause of peace in the region."
Ward met with the presidents, ministers of defense, chiefs of defense and U.S. ambassadors in all four nations.
The general's visit in Uganda included a tour of the Kasenyi Training Site. He also toured Rwanda's Gako Training Academy, where the country's forces train for peacekeeping missions in Sudan.
In addition, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial that acknowledges the loss of the Rwandan people during the 1994 genocide.
"We came to pay our respects to all those who died during this tragic time in Rwandan history," Ward said. "Our responsibility is to do our very best to stop cases where humankind does such terrible things to other members of the human race."
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – A week-long visit by the deputy commander of U.S. European Command to five East African nations focused on fostering relationships and improving bilateral military engagements in the region. Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward returned March 3 from a trip that included meeting with Ethiopian and African Union officials, as well as addressing the Africa Center for Strategic Studies' Senior Leaders Seminar, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He also met with senior leaders in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania.
U.S. European Command has responsibility for U.S. operations in most areas of Africa.
Ward reinforced the importance of fostering partnerships as he presented the Senior Leaders Seminar attendees with a brief look at the current security environment, followed by a top-down approach to U.S. engagement in Africa. He also provided an overview of the recently announced U.S. Africa Command, designed to focus the Department of Defense, Department of State and other U.S. government institutions in cooperating with African partners to achieve a more stable and secure environment for Africa.
Ward visited key leaders in the four other East African nations to get perspectives on issues affecting bilateral military engagements in the region. The nations "play an active role in maintaining security and stability in the region," Ward said. "We support these nations' contributions to the cause of peace in the region."
Ward met with the presidents, ministers of defense, chiefs of defense and U.S. ambassadors in all four nations.
The general's visit in Uganda included a tour of the Kasenyi Training Site. He also toured Rwanda's Gako Training Academy, where the country's forces train for peacekeeping missions in Sudan.
In addition, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial that acknowledges the loss of the Rwandan people during the 1994 genocide.
"We came to pay our respects to all those who died during this tragic time in Rwandan history," Ward said. "Our responsibility is to do our very best to stop cases where humankind does such terrible things to other members of the human race."
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Michigan Auto Shops Offer Free Oil Change for Military Families
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Military family members in Michigan don't have to squeak by anymore when it comes to routine auto maintenance thanks to eight auto garages throughout the state. "We offer a full-service oil change with a brief safety inspection," said Rob Hopp, owner of Auto Advantage. "We're offering them to any military dependent, active or reserve."
The services are free once every 90 days with an appointment and a military dependent identification card, he said. The Oil Change Help program began just a few months after the fighting started in Iraq and will continue until at least Dec. 31.
Tom Ham, who owns Ham's Automotive, was the key player in getting the program going, Hopp said. "He (Ham) has three children who are Marines," he said. "Two of them have been to Iraq and back."
Hopp had his own reasons for wanting to help out though.
"Gratitude for one thing, for the freedom that we enjoy," he said. "I know that our military is one of the primary reasons that we're able to have the freedom we have today."
He said a customer made the need for his and the other garage owners' services apparent. "(We) just got to talking about things that don't get done, or things that she wonders if they're done right," Hopp said. "(Car maintenance is) one thing that tends to fall to the bottom of the priority list."
News about the free service mostly has been spread by word of mouth, though the local newspaper and radio in the Grand Haven area have given it mention, he said. So little publicity has kept the numbers of those taking advantage of the service at Hopp's garage to about one a week, though he's sure he can handle more.
"I've never hesitated to think that we could handle all (the dependents) that were in this area," he said. "We would need to set appointments, of course, and spread it out a little bit."
Military dependents also can find participating garages in Grand Rapids, the Oak Park area of Detroit, and Marshall. Other garages are welcome to join the program, though there are some requirements that must be met, Hopp said.
"I'm open to others (participating)," he said. "There are some specifics that need to be maintained as far as ethics, (for example) not using it as a tool to lasso people in."
Garages interested in becoming part of the free oil change program can e-mail Hopp through the contact link on the Oil Change Help Web site. The Web site also has contact information for military dependents wanting to make appointments.
As for the servicemembers, Hopp has a simple message for them: "Keep up the great work."
Editor's Note: Military families can also avail themselves of the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights home-front groups across the nation that are providing a variety of services and support to troops and their families. A listing of these groups and information about their efforts is available at www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Military family members in Michigan don't have to squeak by anymore when it comes to routine auto maintenance thanks to eight auto garages throughout the state. "We offer a full-service oil change with a brief safety inspection," said Rob Hopp, owner of Auto Advantage. "We're offering them to any military dependent, active or reserve."
The services are free once every 90 days with an appointment and a military dependent identification card, he said. The Oil Change Help program began just a few months after the fighting started in Iraq and will continue until at least Dec. 31.
Tom Ham, who owns Ham's Automotive, was the key player in getting the program going, Hopp said. "He (Ham) has three children who are Marines," he said. "Two of them have been to Iraq and back."
Hopp had his own reasons for wanting to help out though.
"Gratitude for one thing, for the freedom that we enjoy," he said. "I know that our military is one of the primary reasons that we're able to have the freedom we have today."
He said a customer made the need for his and the other garage owners' services apparent. "(We) just got to talking about things that don't get done, or things that she wonders if they're done right," Hopp said. "(Car maintenance is) one thing that tends to fall to the bottom of the priority list."
News about the free service mostly has been spread by word of mouth, though the local newspaper and radio in the Grand Haven area have given it mention, he said. So little publicity has kept the numbers of those taking advantage of the service at Hopp's garage to about one a week, though he's sure he can handle more.
"I've never hesitated to think that we could handle all (the dependents) that were in this area," he said. "We would need to set appointments, of course, and spread it out a little bit."
Military dependents also can find participating garages in Grand Rapids, the Oak Park area of Detroit, and Marshall. Other garages are welcome to join the program, though there are some requirements that must be met, Hopp said.
"I'm open to others (participating)," he said. "There are some specifics that need to be maintained as far as ethics, (for example) not using it as a tool to lasso people in."
Garages interested in becoming part of the free oil change program can e-mail Hopp through the contact link on the Oil Change Help Web site. The Web site also has contact information for military dependents wanting to make appointments.
As for the servicemembers, Hopp has a simple message for them: "Keep up the great work."
Editor's Note: Military families can also avail themselves of the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights home-front groups across the nation that are providing a variety of services and support to troops and their families. A listing of these groups and information about their efforts is available at www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
VA Seeks Volunteers to Play 'Taps' at National Cemeteries
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Hundreds of volunteer buglers and trumpeters are being sought to participate in Armed Forces Day observances held at veterans' cemeteries nationwide and overseas, a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official said here yesterday. The event, called "Echo Taps Worldwide," will be held May 19 and is co-sponsored by the VA's National Cemetery Administration and "Bugles Across America," a volunteer group, said Michael Nacincik, the cemetery administration's chief of communications and outreach support.
"Echo Taps" will take place at VA-operated national cemeteries, U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service national cemeteries, and American Battle Monuments Commission cemeteries located overseas, Nacincik said.
"It is an extremely important event for a number of reasons," Nacincik said. "It honors the service of veterans to our country."
The initiative also encourages musicians to perform as live buglers at veterans' funeral ceremonies year round, Nacincik said. In 2006, 688,000 veterans died in the United States, he noted, with most belonging to the World War II generation.
"There is overwhelming popular support to have 'Taps' played at veterans' funerals," Nacincik said. "And, obviously, with that many burials taking place, there are not enough buglers to provide a live bugler at every burial."
Nevertheless, Bugles Across America has done "a very good job" of obtaining volunteers to play "Taps" at military funerals, Nacincik said.
"It is important that our nation preserves the tradition of a live bugler to play final military honors," Leslie Hampton, a Navy veteran and Bugles Across America volunteer, stated in a recent VA news release.
"Hopefully, 'Echo Taps' will go even further and help to identify people who know how to play 'Taps' or are willing to learn how to play 'Taps' and motivate them to want to provide the service when they're available at veterans' funerals in the future," Nacincik said.
Volunteer buglers and trumpeters must register through the VA's website, which is attached to the "Echo Taps" site at www.echotaps.org, Nacincik said.
The VA operates 124 veterans' cemeteries across the United States, Nacincik said. Generally, persons who've received other than dishonorable discharges after completion of military service are eligible for burial at a VA-operated national cemetery, he noted.
Related Sites:
Participate in Echo Taps Worldwide
Echo Taps
Department of Veterans Affairs Burial and Memorials information
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Hundreds of volunteer buglers and trumpeters are being sought to participate in Armed Forces Day observances held at veterans' cemeteries nationwide and overseas, a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official said here yesterday. The event, called "Echo Taps Worldwide," will be held May 19 and is co-sponsored by the VA's National Cemetery Administration and "Bugles Across America," a volunteer group, said Michael Nacincik, the cemetery administration's chief of communications and outreach support.
"Echo Taps" will take place at VA-operated national cemeteries, U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service national cemeteries, and American Battle Monuments Commission cemeteries located overseas, Nacincik said.
"It is an extremely important event for a number of reasons," Nacincik said. "It honors the service of veterans to our country."
The initiative also encourages musicians to perform as live buglers at veterans' funeral ceremonies year round, Nacincik said. In 2006, 688,000 veterans died in the United States, he noted, with most belonging to the World War II generation.
"There is overwhelming popular support to have 'Taps' played at veterans' funerals," Nacincik said. "And, obviously, with that many burials taking place, there are not enough buglers to provide a live bugler at every burial."
Nevertheless, Bugles Across America has done "a very good job" of obtaining volunteers to play "Taps" at military funerals, Nacincik said.
"It is important that our nation preserves the tradition of a live bugler to play final military honors," Leslie Hampton, a Navy veteran and Bugles Across America volunteer, stated in a recent VA news release.
"Hopefully, 'Echo Taps' will go even further and help to identify people who know how to play 'Taps' or are willing to learn how to play 'Taps' and motivate them to want to provide the service when they're available at veterans' funerals in the future," Nacincik said.
Volunteer buglers and trumpeters must register through the VA's website, which is attached to the "Echo Taps" site at www.echotaps.org, Nacincik said.
The VA operates 124 veterans' cemeteries across the United States, Nacincik said. Generally, persons who've received other than dishonorable discharges after completion of military service are eligible for burial at a VA-operated national cemetery, he noted.
Related Sites:
Participate in Echo Taps Worldwide
Echo Taps
Department of Veterans Affairs Burial and Memorials information
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
General Officer Assignment
The Army announces the assignment of the following general officer:
Maj. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, commanding general, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick, Fort Detrick, Md. to commanding general, North Atlantic Regional Medical Command/Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC, effective March 3, 2007.
Maj. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, commanding general, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick, Fort Detrick, Md. to commanding general, North Atlantic Regional Medical Command/Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC, effective March 3, 2007.
Bush Dispatches USNS Comfort on Goodwill Mission
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – The hospital ship USNS Comfort will provide health care to disadvantaged citizens at several Latin American and Caribbean ports of call this summer, President Bush announced here yesterday. "The United States military is a symbol of strength for this nation, but it's also a symbol of the great compassion of the American people and our desire to help those in our neighborhood who need help," Bush told members of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
The Baltimore-based hospital ship's doctors, nurses and support personnel expect to treat 85,000 patients and conduct up to 1,500 surgeries during its voyage, Bush said.
The USNS Comfort will depart in June and make port calls in Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Peru, Ecuador, Columbia, Haiti, Trinidad, Tobago, Guyana and Suriname, Bush said.
Bush said the United States has nearly doubled the amount of foreign aid to Latin America and the Caribbean region since he took office, noting that $1.6 billion was spent last year. The United States also is launching several new medical, economic and educational initiatives to assist poverty-stricken Latin Americans and Caribbean citizens, the president said.
"These are people who need help. These are people who might not otherwise get the basic health care they need to realize a better tomorrow," Bush said. "The Comfort is also going to partner with the Department of Health and Human Services on a new initiative to provide all care to the region's poor. Dentists and hygienists will fill cavities and treat infections and provide treatment for the young children."
He added that military medical teams will be operating inland to help bring care to other communities. "These teams do everything from vaccinating people against disease to building new medical clinics," Bush said.
He highlighted a current humanitarian mission in Nicaragua, where 250 U.S. airmen, soldiers and Marines are partnering with 30 Nicaraguan army soldiers to build a new medical clinic.
Through the deployment of the Comfort and the work of military medical teams throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, "we're making it absolutely clear to people that we care," Bush said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – The hospital ship USNS Comfort will provide health care to disadvantaged citizens at several Latin American and Caribbean ports of call this summer, President Bush announced here yesterday. "The United States military is a symbol of strength for this nation, but it's also a symbol of the great compassion of the American people and our desire to help those in our neighborhood who need help," Bush told members of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
The Baltimore-based hospital ship's doctors, nurses and support personnel expect to treat 85,000 patients and conduct up to 1,500 surgeries during its voyage, Bush said.
The USNS Comfort will depart in June and make port calls in Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Peru, Ecuador, Columbia, Haiti, Trinidad, Tobago, Guyana and Suriname, Bush said.
Bush said the United States has nearly doubled the amount of foreign aid to Latin America and the Caribbean region since he took office, noting that $1.6 billion was spent last year. The United States also is launching several new medical, economic and educational initiatives to assist poverty-stricken Latin Americans and Caribbean citizens, the president said.
"These are people who need help. These are people who might not otherwise get the basic health care they need to realize a better tomorrow," Bush said. "The Comfort is also going to partner with the Department of Health and Human Services on a new initiative to provide all care to the region's poor. Dentists and hygienists will fill cavities and treat infections and provide treatment for the young children."
He added that military medical teams will be operating inland to help bring care to other communities. "These teams do everything from vaccinating people against disease to building new medical clinics," Bush said.
He highlighted a current humanitarian mission in Nicaragua, where 250 U.S. airmen, soldiers and Marines are partnering with 30 Nicaraguan army soldiers to build a new medical clinic.
Through the deployment of the Comfort and the work of military medical teams throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, "we're making it absolutely clear to people that we care," Bush said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
IRS Offers Free Tax Assistance for Troops, Families
By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – With income tax deadlines quickly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service is reminding troops and their families that free assistance is available to them at military tax centers worldwide. The IRS has provided the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program to servicemembers from more than 25 years.
Bill Cressman, an IRS spokesman, said the revenue service wants to help lift the burden of tax filing from members of the military who often run into complicated tax exemptions.
"The IRS offers volunteer income tax assistance to both military servicemembers and civilians," Cressman said. "We want to make tax compliance easier."
Commanders throughout the services have supported the program by providing personnel, space and equipment for tax centers. The IRS provides tax software and training.
The program, overseen by the Armed Forces Tax Council, works to train military volunteers on installations through a series of intensive training sessions so they can understand current laws and offer tax advice, preparation, return filing and other tax assistance, Cressman said.
IRS tax laws provide special benefits to active-duty servicemembers, particularly those in combat zones. For federal tax purposes, "armed forces" includes officers and enlisted members in regular and reserve units controlled by the secretaries of Defense, Army, Navy and Air Force, in addition to the Coast Guard.
According to the IRS Web site, three combat zones have been designated by executive order from the president in areas where armed forces are or have engaged in combat, this includes the air space above those areas. These are the Arabian Peninsula, Kosovo and Afghanistan.
The Defense Department also has certified locations for combat zone tax benefits due to the direct support of military operations during operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. A listing of these locations can be found at www.irs.gov/newsroom by clicking on the "Armed Forces" tab.
Those who qualify for combat zone provisions can apply for military pay exclusions, deadline extensions and miscellaneous provisions by writing "combat zone" and their deployment date in red ink on the top of tax returns.
Qualifying taxpayers may directly notify the IRS of their exclusion status by e-mailing combatzone@irs.gov. Servicemembers should provide name, stateside address, date of birth, and date of deployment to the combat zone. They should not include social security numbers in an e-mail. This notification may be made by the taxpayer, spouse, or authorized agent or representative.
Enlisted members and warrant officers serving in a combat zone for any part of a month qualify to have all military pay for that month excluded from gross income tax. Officers' monthly exclusions are capped at the highest enlisted pay rate, plus hostile fire or imminent danger pay received.
Deadline extensions are not confined to those serving in combat zones. They also apply to civilian personnel acting under direction of the armed forces and spouses who are stateside.
Telephone calls originating in combat zones by members of the armed forces are also exempt from federal excise tax and must be certified for exemption by the telephone company. If servicemembers already have filed, they can still apply for a refund.
Recent law changes also have allowed military members to count tax-free combat pay when determining contributions to Roth and traditional individual retirement accounts. This also can apply to taxes filed since 2004. Troops are allowed to go back and make contributions for those years.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – With income tax deadlines quickly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service is reminding troops and their families that free assistance is available to them at military tax centers worldwide. The IRS has provided the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program to servicemembers from more than 25 years.
Bill Cressman, an IRS spokesman, said the revenue service wants to help lift the burden of tax filing from members of the military who often run into complicated tax exemptions.
"The IRS offers volunteer income tax assistance to both military servicemembers and civilians," Cressman said. "We want to make tax compliance easier."
Commanders throughout the services have supported the program by providing personnel, space and equipment for tax centers. The IRS provides tax software and training.
The program, overseen by the Armed Forces Tax Council, works to train military volunteers on installations through a series of intensive training sessions so they can understand current laws and offer tax advice, preparation, return filing and other tax assistance, Cressman said.
IRS tax laws provide special benefits to active-duty servicemembers, particularly those in combat zones. For federal tax purposes, "armed forces" includes officers and enlisted members in regular and reserve units controlled by the secretaries of Defense, Army, Navy and Air Force, in addition to the Coast Guard.
According to the IRS Web site, three combat zones have been designated by executive order from the president in areas where armed forces are or have engaged in combat, this includes the air space above those areas. These are the Arabian Peninsula, Kosovo and Afghanistan.
The Defense Department also has certified locations for combat zone tax benefits due to the direct support of military operations during operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. A listing of these locations can be found at www.irs.gov/newsroom by clicking on the "Armed Forces" tab.
Those who qualify for combat zone provisions can apply for military pay exclusions, deadline extensions and miscellaneous provisions by writing "combat zone" and their deployment date in red ink on the top of tax returns.
Qualifying taxpayers may directly notify the IRS of their exclusion status by e-mailing combatzone@irs.gov. Servicemembers should provide name, stateside address, date of birth, and date of deployment to the combat zone. They should not include social security numbers in an e-mail. This notification may be made by the taxpayer, spouse, or authorized agent or representative.
Enlisted members and warrant officers serving in a combat zone for any part of a month qualify to have all military pay for that month excluded from gross income tax. Officers' monthly exclusions are capped at the highest enlisted pay rate, plus hostile fire or imminent danger pay received.
Deadline extensions are not confined to those serving in combat zones. They also apply to civilian personnel acting under direction of the armed forces and spouses who are stateside.
Telephone calls originating in combat zones by members of the armed forces are also exempt from federal excise tax and must be certified for exemption by the telephone company. If servicemembers already have filed, they can still apply for a refund.
Recent law changes also have allowed military members to count tax-free combat pay when determining contributions to Roth and traditional individual retirement accounts. This also can apply to taxes filed since 2004. Troops are allowed to go back and make contributions for those years.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Officials' Testimony Focuses on Fixing Health Care System
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Questions to top Army and DoD officials before the Senate Armed Services Committee today focused on how to eliminate the bureaucracies that many say permeate servicemembers' outpatient health care. The committee questioned top defense officials regarding reports of substandard living conditions and delays in outpatient services at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here.
Army and defense leaders did not dispute the claims. The Army's top officer, Chief of Staff Gen. Peter J. Schoomaker, compared the system's bureaucracy to "running in hip boots in a swamp."
"It sucks the energy out of you," he said.
Schoomaker said the Army is acting quickly to fix the problems it can, and the service will work with DoD and other agencies on those that cross service boundaries or require legislative support. "I stand accountable. All of our energy is going into making sure the proper actions are taken," he said.
Schoomaker offered up a list of steps taken by Army leadership so far that includes installing a new commander and deputy commander at the center, as well as a new battalion commander and command sergeant major, all combat veterans.
A one-stop family assistance center there now allows soldiers and family members access to all of the services they need in one spot, he said.
Also, officials opened a telephone hotline that allows anytime access for reporting problems.
Two teams have been dispatched to review services at in- and out-patient facilities across the Army, Schoomaker said.
Assistant Defense Secretary for Health Affairs Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., said his office's top priority is finding and fixing the problems, and he wants patients to speak up about the quality of care they have received. "We welcome public scrutiny, even when it's critical and painful to hear," he said.
"Defensiveness and explanations are not the route to getting things done," Winkenwerder said.
He divided the problems into three categories for the committee: facilities, the disability determination process, and care coordination.
Winkenwerder said he believes the Army is fixing the facilities that were not up to standards.
Changes to the disability determination process cross organizational boundaries and will not happen quickly, but the process should be fair, consistent and timely, and not adversarial, he said.
When pressed by a committee member, Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin C. Kiley conceded that some soldiers have probably been shortchanged by the Army's disability evaluation system because it is set up to recognize the value of a "loss of limb" but not designed to understand the "nuances" of post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries.
To aid the process of care coordination, officials are hiring more case managers and other staff to lower the ratio of patients to staff. "No servicemember should ever have to work through a maze ... to figure things out," Winkenwerder said.
Kiley said a complete system overhaul is required. "We really need to reinvent this entire process," he said.
The individual obstacles of the system are being fixed by Kiley's office, but the way disability compensation is awarded, which is governed by regulations, needs to be revamped, he said.
Kiley said he shared in responsibility for the failures in outpatient care at Walter Reed and "accepts the responsibility of rapid corrective action."
"I am committed to fixing it," he said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
March 6, 2007 – Questions to top Army and DoD officials before the Senate Armed Services Committee today focused on how to eliminate the bureaucracies that many say permeate servicemembers' outpatient health care. The committee questioned top defense officials regarding reports of substandard living conditions and delays in outpatient services at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here.
Army and defense leaders did not dispute the claims. The Army's top officer, Chief of Staff Gen. Peter J. Schoomaker, compared the system's bureaucracy to "running in hip boots in a swamp."
"It sucks the energy out of you," he said.
Schoomaker said the Army is acting quickly to fix the problems it can, and the service will work with DoD and other agencies on those that cross service boundaries or require legislative support. "I stand accountable. All of our energy is going into making sure the proper actions are taken," he said.
Schoomaker offered up a list of steps taken by Army leadership so far that includes installing a new commander and deputy commander at the center, as well as a new battalion commander and command sergeant major, all combat veterans.
A one-stop family assistance center there now allows soldiers and family members access to all of the services they need in one spot, he said.
Also, officials opened a telephone hotline that allows anytime access for reporting problems.
Two teams have been dispatched to review services at in- and out-patient facilities across the Army, Schoomaker said.
Assistant Defense Secretary for Health Affairs Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., said his office's top priority is finding and fixing the problems, and he wants patients to speak up about the quality of care they have received. "We welcome public scrutiny, even when it's critical and painful to hear," he said.
"Defensiveness and explanations are not the route to getting things done," Winkenwerder said.
He divided the problems into three categories for the committee: facilities, the disability determination process, and care coordination.
Winkenwerder said he believes the Army is fixing the facilities that were not up to standards.
Changes to the disability determination process cross organizational boundaries and will not happen quickly, but the process should be fair, consistent and timely, and not adversarial, he said.
When pressed by a committee member, Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin C. Kiley conceded that some soldiers have probably been shortchanged by the Army's disability evaluation system because it is set up to recognize the value of a "loss of limb" but not designed to understand the "nuances" of post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries.
To aid the process of care coordination, officials are hiring more case managers and other staff to lower the ratio of patients to staff. "No servicemember should ever have to work through a maze ... to figure things out," Winkenwerder said.
Kiley said a complete system overhaul is required. "We really need to reinvent this entire process," he said.
The individual obstacles of the system are being fixed by Kiley's office, but the way disability compensation is awarded, which is governed by regulations, needs to be revamped, he said.
Kiley said he shared in responsibility for the failures in outpatient care at Walter Reed and "accepts the responsibility of rapid corrective action."
"I am committed to fixing it," he said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Texas Teen Focuses on Supporting Troops
By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – As a senior in high school, Tania Foster could easily focus all her energy in preparing for her collegiate pursuits in biochemistry this autumn. However, the 18-year-old is instead putting her spare time into helping others -- primarily the men and women of the armed forces -- through her nonprofit organization "Dallas is Love."
During a family vacation to South Korea in 2004, she interacted for the first time with U.S. troops stationed there. "I had no idea of the strain that they were under, as the majority of them are in Korea without family members," Tania said.
When she returned to the states, she began spreading the word to friends and businesses in the Dallas area that there are troops on the Korean Peninsula who need to be shown the support of the American public.
"I just knew that something had to be done to let these men and women know how much we, the people of America, appreciate them for all their efforts and sacrifices they make every day," Tania said.
In an effort to heighten the visibility of her organization and therefore help more troops, she sought assistance from military officials at the Pentagon. In November 2006, Dallas is Love became a member of America Supports You, the Defense Department program designed to connect grassroots home front groups with members of the military at home and overseas.
"The help that we received from America Supports You and public affairs offices at the Pentagon and in Korea was wonderful," her mother, Linda, said. "These offices have done so much to guide her in the right direction and have helped us in so many ways."
Before joining the DoD team, Tania was primarily getting requests for assistance from troops in Korea; now requests are coming in from around the globe, Linda said.
Through her Web site, www.dallasislove.org, Tania has raised more than $8,000 for Army and Air Force Exchange Service gift cards for soldiers. Although her organization has primarily focused on Army troops in Korea, she began branching out in February to meet the needs of members of other services stationed in other parts of the world.
The increase in troop coverage has resulted in a revamping of her Web site.
Korean War veteran Keith Fannon serves as the organization's Web master. The 77-year-old said he and his fellow members of the Sam Johnson Chapter 270 of the Korean War Veterans Association first encouraged Tania to go forward with her idea of supporting troops on the peninsula. Fannon volunteered to create and monitor the site.
"Anything I can do for those guys over there, I'm willing to do it," Fannon said. "A lot of these guys don't hear from their families. It means so much to get something from home; it's uplifting."
Former Dallas Cowboys star Tony Hill also has been an active sponsor of Tania's efforts to support U.S. troops. He has autographed more than $1,600 worth of Cowboys merchandise to send to servicemembers stationed overseas. Hill also has appeared with Tania on local radio station 570 KLIS to promote Dallas is Love and encourage others in the community to get involved.
The Texas radio station sent a crew to Iraq in mid-February to do a live broadcast for their Dallas listeners. While there, the KLIS crew distributed more than $1,000 worth of gift cards to troops, in addition to personal hygiene items and compact discs gathered from local businesses by Tania's organization.
Tania's younger brother, Patrick Henry, 15, also is lending a helping hand. He is in charge of keeping track of the money given to the organization and personally writes each donor a thank you letter.
"It is very rewarding to reach out and give to people," Linda said. "(My husband and I) have always emphasized the importance of giving to others even though we aren't rich. We are just a regular, middle-class family."
Although their family has no personal connection with the military, Tania said that Dallas is Love has given her insight into the military lifestyle and has inspired her to continue her efforts to support U.S. troops.
"As American citizens, we must realize that we have troops all around the world to protect not only our country," Tania said, "but others as well."
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – As a senior in high school, Tania Foster could easily focus all her energy in preparing for her collegiate pursuits in biochemistry this autumn. However, the 18-year-old is instead putting her spare time into helping others -- primarily the men and women of the armed forces -- through her nonprofit organization "Dallas is Love."
During a family vacation to South Korea in 2004, she interacted for the first time with U.S. troops stationed there. "I had no idea of the strain that they were under, as the majority of them are in Korea without family members," Tania said.
When she returned to the states, she began spreading the word to friends and businesses in the Dallas area that there are troops on the Korean Peninsula who need to be shown the support of the American public.
"I just knew that something had to be done to let these men and women know how much we, the people of America, appreciate them for all their efforts and sacrifices they make every day," Tania said.
In an effort to heighten the visibility of her organization and therefore help more troops, she sought assistance from military officials at the Pentagon. In November 2006, Dallas is Love became a member of America Supports You, the Defense Department program designed to connect grassroots home front groups with members of the military at home and overseas.
"The help that we received from America Supports You and public affairs offices at the Pentagon and in Korea was wonderful," her mother, Linda, said. "These offices have done so much to guide her in the right direction and have helped us in so many ways."
Before joining the DoD team, Tania was primarily getting requests for assistance from troops in Korea; now requests are coming in from around the globe, Linda said.
Through her Web site, www.dallasislove.org, Tania has raised more than $8,000 for Army and Air Force Exchange Service gift cards for soldiers. Although her organization has primarily focused on Army troops in Korea, she began branching out in February to meet the needs of members of other services stationed in other parts of the world.
The increase in troop coverage has resulted in a revamping of her Web site.
Korean War veteran Keith Fannon serves as the organization's Web master. The 77-year-old said he and his fellow members of the Sam Johnson Chapter 270 of the Korean War Veterans Association first encouraged Tania to go forward with her idea of supporting troops on the peninsula. Fannon volunteered to create and monitor the site.
"Anything I can do for those guys over there, I'm willing to do it," Fannon said. "A lot of these guys don't hear from their families. It means so much to get something from home; it's uplifting."
Former Dallas Cowboys star Tony Hill also has been an active sponsor of Tania's efforts to support U.S. troops. He has autographed more than $1,600 worth of Cowboys merchandise to send to servicemembers stationed overseas. Hill also has appeared with Tania on local radio station 570 KLIS to promote Dallas is Love and encourage others in the community to get involved.
The Texas radio station sent a crew to Iraq in mid-February to do a live broadcast for their Dallas listeners. While there, the KLIS crew distributed more than $1,000 worth of gift cards to troops, in addition to personal hygiene items and compact discs gathered from local businesses by Tania's organization.
Tania's younger brother, Patrick Henry, 15, also is lending a helping hand. He is in charge of keeping track of the money given to the organization and personally writes each donor a thank you letter.
"It is very rewarding to reach out and give to people," Linda said. "(My husband and I) have always emphasized the importance of giving to others even though we aren't rich. We are just a regular, middle-class family."
Although their family has no personal connection with the military, Tania said that Dallas is Love has given her insight into the military lifestyle and has inspired her to continue her efforts to support U.S. troops.
"As American citizens, we must realize that we have troops all around the world to protect not only our country," Tania said, "but others as well."
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
New Yorkers Enjoy Taste of Home in Texas
By Elaine Wilson
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – A handful of wounded warriors recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center here are getting a taste of home -- minus the neck-wrenching skyscrapers and taxi-filled city streets. The servicemembers, all New York natives, are the lucky recipients of a week's worth of the Big Apple's best delicacies, thanks to the generosity of a handful of the city's top restaurants, delicatessens, fine food stores and bakeries.
The first shipment from Zabar's arrived Feb. 23, to the culinary delight of Marine Sgt. Rocky Ramirez, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y.
"I'm going to get all the New Yorkers here together for a banquet," he said, as he pulled a bounty of bagels, cookies and fruit from the box.
The Taste of New York project was conceived in late January here at the grand opening of the Army's new rehabilitation center, the Center for the Intrepid. The veterans visited with New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and mentioned how much they missed New York City food.
"Mrs. Quinn asked for a list of food we wanted," said Ramirez, adding that he personally requested rice and beans.
The speaker's office then enlisted the help of a group of New Yorkers, including Tim Zagat; Kathy Wylde, president and CEO of Partnership for New York City; Bill White, president of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund; and the five borough presidents.
"The Intrepid Center is providing these brave New Yorkers with the best possible care; however, the one thing the center can't provide is the feeling of home," Quinn said.
Along with Zabar's, throughout the week the servicemembers will receive tasty treats from Moma's of Corona, Sahadi, Joe's Place, Murray Cheese and Jive Turkey.
"They're trying to get me fat," Ramirez joked, also expressing his gratitude for the tasty gesture. He will be happy to know that his beloved rice and beans are on the way.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – A handful of wounded warriors recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center here are getting a taste of home -- minus the neck-wrenching skyscrapers and taxi-filled city streets. The servicemembers, all New York natives, are the lucky recipients of a week's worth of the Big Apple's best delicacies, thanks to the generosity of a handful of the city's top restaurants, delicatessens, fine food stores and bakeries.
The first shipment from Zabar's arrived Feb. 23, to the culinary delight of Marine Sgt. Rocky Ramirez, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y.
"I'm going to get all the New Yorkers here together for a banquet," he said, as he pulled a bounty of bagels, cookies and fruit from the box.
The Taste of New York project was conceived in late January here at the grand opening of the Army's new rehabilitation center, the Center for the Intrepid. The veterans visited with New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and mentioned how much they missed New York City food.
"Mrs. Quinn asked for a list of food we wanted," said Ramirez, adding that he personally requested rice and beans.
The speaker's office then enlisted the help of a group of New Yorkers, including Tim Zagat; Kathy Wylde, president and CEO of Partnership for New York City; Bill White, president of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund; and the five borough presidents.
"The Intrepid Center is providing these brave New Yorkers with the best possible care; however, the one thing the center can't provide is the feeling of home," Quinn said.
Along with Zabar's, throughout the week the servicemembers will receive tasty treats from Moma's of Corona, Sahadi, Joe's Place, Murray Cheese and Jive Turkey.
"They're trying to get me fat," Ramirez joked, also expressing his gratitude for the tasty gesture. He will be happy to know that his beloved rice and beans are on the way.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
Craddock Discusses Africa, European Command Changes
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – Establishing U.S. Africa Command will mean big changes to U.S. European Command, the top U.S. military commander in Europe said at a news roundtable here today. Army Gen. Bantz J. Craddock, commander of U.S. European Command and NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe, said initial operating capability for U.S. Africa Command is tentatively set for Oct. 1, with full operational capability set for Oct. 1, 2008.
All the African nations currently under European Command will transfer to the new command. All the nations of the Horn of Africa will transfer from U.S. Central Command, and Madagascar and the Seychelles will transfer from U.S. Pacific Command.
The new command will be based in Stuttgart, Germany, for the time being. Officials ultimately hope the command will transfer its headquarters to Africa, Craddock said.
The teams working to set up AFRICOM are working in Washington and Stuttgart on the new command's manning, functions and missions. Craddock has taken the opportunity of the change to look at and refocus the mission of U.S. European Command.
"EUCOM has plenty of opportunities to look at," he said. "We've just got to be sure that we are arranged properly."
He said an enormous requirement will remain for the U.S. military to engage European and NATO nations. "NATO has 26 members and 23 partners," he said. "We have to look at the Trans-Caucusus area, (and) engagement with Russia. We've got to look at lines of communication. Sea lanes are important, (as is) energy security, which means different things to different nations."
Craddock said he sees the changes to both commands as a chance to reach out to other U.S. government agencies.
"I don't see Africa Command as a typical combatant command, as European Command or Southern Command of Pacific Command is today," he said. "I think given the roles and missions and challenges in Africa, it is going to have a little different scope."
Africa Command must be interagency from the start, he said, because of the challenges on the continent.
"We need to put together the organization to face the challenges of endemic disease, HIV/AIDS, agriculture, energy," he said. This will require people from the State Department, Health and Human Services, the Energy Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development, to name a few.
If this approach is successful at Africa Command - and Craddock said he believes it will be - the general anticipates the changes would migrate to other geographic commands.
"The problem is there are so many different (agency) stovepipes," he said. "We've got to get these stovepipes connected horizontally.
"I think AFRICOM may be the spearhead - the pioneer here," he continued. "But I think there will be spin-offs and best practices we can use in re-crafting the combatant commands."
He said the model could be very much like that of the Joint Interagency Task Force South in Key West, Fla. That group is an interagency force that has people empowered to make decisions.
The members from different agencies do not have to reach back to Washington to make a decision or commit resources, Craddock said, adding that he could see something along those lines replacing the European Command's interagency coordinating group.
"We'd like to populate the interagency group with decisional authority rather than having them reach back to Washington for a decision," he said. "It would enable greater opportunities for fast decisions and be able to do things on a higher-tempo basis."
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – Establishing U.S. Africa Command will mean big changes to U.S. European Command, the top U.S. military commander in Europe said at a news roundtable here today. Army Gen. Bantz J. Craddock, commander of U.S. European Command and NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe, said initial operating capability for U.S. Africa Command is tentatively set for Oct. 1, with full operational capability set for Oct. 1, 2008.
All the African nations currently under European Command will transfer to the new command. All the nations of the Horn of Africa will transfer from U.S. Central Command, and Madagascar and the Seychelles will transfer from U.S. Pacific Command.
The new command will be based in Stuttgart, Germany, for the time being. Officials ultimately hope the command will transfer its headquarters to Africa, Craddock said.
The teams working to set up AFRICOM are working in Washington and Stuttgart on the new command's manning, functions and missions. Craddock has taken the opportunity of the change to look at and refocus the mission of U.S. European Command.
"EUCOM has plenty of opportunities to look at," he said. "We've just got to be sure that we are arranged properly."
He said an enormous requirement will remain for the U.S. military to engage European and NATO nations. "NATO has 26 members and 23 partners," he said. "We have to look at the Trans-Caucusus area, (and) engagement with Russia. We've got to look at lines of communication. Sea lanes are important, (as is) energy security, which means different things to different nations."
Craddock said he sees the changes to both commands as a chance to reach out to other U.S. government agencies.
"I don't see Africa Command as a typical combatant command, as European Command or Southern Command of Pacific Command is today," he said. "I think given the roles and missions and challenges in Africa, it is going to have a little different scope."
Africa Command must be interagency from the start, he said, because of the challenges on the continent.
"We need to put together the organization to face the challenges of endemic disease, HIV/AIDS, agriculture, energy," he said. This will require people from the State Department, Health and Human Services, the Energy Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development, to name a few.
If this approach is successful at Africa Command - and Craddock said he believes it will be - the general anticipates the changes would migrate to other geographic commands.
"The problem is there are so many different (agency) stovepipes," he said. "We've got to get these stovepipes connected horizontally.
"I think AFRICOM may be the spearhead - the pioneer here," he continued. "But I think there will be spin-offs and best practices we can use in re-crafting the combatant commands."
He said the model could be very much like that of the Joint Interagency Task Force South in Key West, Fla. That group is an interagency force that has people empowered to make decisions.
The members from different agencies do not have to reach back to Washington to make a decision or commit resources, Craddock said, adding that he could see something along those lines replacing the European Command's interagency coordinating group.
"We'd like to populate the interagency group with decisional authority rather than having them reach back to Washington for a decision," he said. "It would enable greater opportunities for fast decisions and be able to do things on a higher-tempo basis."
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
Bush Forms Commission to Review Troops' Health Care
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – In response to problems recently reported at the Army's top medical center, President Bush today said his office is creating a bipartisan commission to review the overall quality of health care wounded servicemembers receive. In his weekly radio address, Bush called the reported problems at Walter Reed Army Medical Center "unacceptable" and said the commission will review the care wounded servicemembers receive from the time they are injured on the battlefield to when they return to civilian life as veterans.
"This country has a moral obligation to provide our servicemen and women with the best possible care and treatment. They deserve it, and they will get it," he said.
On Feb. 23, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates toured the center's outpatient facility Building 18, where reported maintenance and administrative problems catapulted the center into the national spotlight in a series of Washington Post articles. He said injured servicemembers should not return home to battle the bureaucracies of a broken outpatient health care system.
The secretary of the Army yesterday fired the center's commander, Army Maj. Gen. George W. Weightman, citing "lost trust and confidence" in his leadership abilities. The commanding general of U.S. Army Medical Command, Army Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley, will fill the spot temporarily.
Bush acknowledged that most of the staff members at Walter Reed are "dedicated professionals."
"Walter Reed has a long tradition of outstanding medical service," Bush said, and he pledged that his administration will ensure that the soldiers recovering there are treated with the dignity and respect they have earned.
Commission members will be announced in the next few days, Bush said.
Gates also formed an independent review group to investigate the reports of substandard living conditions and bogged-down administrative processes.
If Bush's fiscal 2008 budget proposal is approved, Veterans Affairs health care funding has increased by 83 percent over the past six years, from about $20 billion to more than $36 billion, he said. Bush is asking Congress for more than $86 billion overall for veterans' services this year. If approved, it would be a 77 percent increase since Bush took office.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – In response to problems recently reported at the Army's top medical center, President Bush today said his office is creating a bipartisan commission to review the overall quality of health care wounded servicemembers receive. In his weekly radio address, Bush called the reported problems at Walter Reed Army Medical Center "unacceptable" and said the commission will review the care wounded servicemembers receive from the time they are injured on the battlefield to when they return to civilian life as veterans.
"This country has a moral obligation to provide our servicemen and women with the best possible care and treatment. They deserve it, and they will get it," he said.
On Feb. 23, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates toured the center's outpatient facility Building 18, where reported maintenance and administrative problems catapulted the center into the national spotlight in a series of Washington Post articles. He said injured servicemembers should not return home to battle the bureaucracies of a broken outpatient health care system.
The secretary of the Army yesterday fired the center's commander, Army Maj. Gen. George W. Weightman, citing "lost trust and confidence" in his leadership abilities. The commanding general of U.S. Army Medical Command, Army Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley, will fill the spot temporarily.
Bush acknowledged that most of the staff members at Walter Reed are "dedicated professionals."
"Walter Reed has a long tradition of outstanding medical service," Bush said, and he pledged that his administration will ensure that the soldiers recovering there are treated with the dignity and respect they have earned.
Commission members will be announced in the next few days, Bush said.
Gates also formed an independent review group to investigate the reports of substandard living conditions and bogged-down administrative processes.
If Bush's fiscal 2008 budget proposal is approved, Veterans Affairs health care funding has increased by 83 percent over the past six years, from about $20 billion to more than $36 billion, he said. Bush is asking Congress for more than $86 billion overall for veterans' services this year. If approved, it would be a 77 percent increase since Bush took office.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
Army Secretary Resigns in Wake of Walter Reed Outpatient-Care Shortfalls
By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced this afternoon that he has accepted the resignation of Army Secretary Francis J. Harvey in light of allegations of shortfalls in care of outpatients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. Published reports in February shed light on shortcomings in outpatient care for troops wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. Army officials announced yesterday that the hospital commander, Maj. Gen. George W. Weightman, had been relieved of duty.
In announcing that Harvey had resigned, Gates expressed disappointment that Army leaders were not taking the situation seriously enough.
"I am disappointed that some in the Army have not adequately appreciated the seriousness of the situation pertaining to outpatient care at Walter Reed," he said in a brief statement at the Pentagon. "Some have shown too much defensiveness and have not shown enough focus on digging into and addressing the problems."
He also said he is concerned that some Army leaders hadn't communicated well enough that caring for wounded troops is their top priority.
"Addressing (troops' and their families') concerns about the quality of their outpatient experience is critically important," Gates said. "Our wounded soldiers and their families have sacrificed much, and they deserve the best we can offer."
In contrast to his criticism of Army leaders, Gates praised the medical staff at Walter Reed for "their professionalism and dedication to providing caring treatment."
"From what I have learned, the problems at Walter Reed appear to be problems of leadership," he said "The Walter Reed doctors, nurses and other staff are among the best and the most caring in the world. They deserve our continued deepest thanks and strongest support."
Harvey had been secretary of the Army since Nov. 19, 2004. Gates announced that Undersecretary of the Army Pete Geren will serve as acting secretary until a new secretary is in place. Geren served as acting secretary of the Air Force from July to November 2005.
Army officials announced after Gates' news conference that Maj. Gen. Eric R. Schoomaker will be the new commander of Walter Reed Army Medical Center and North Atlantic Regional Medical Command. Schoomaker currently is the commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command at Fort Detrick, Md.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
American Forces Press Service
March 2, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced this afternoon that he has accepted the resignation of Army Secretary Francis J. Harvey in light of allegations of shortfalls in care of outpatients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. Published reports in February shed light on shortcomings in outpatient care for troops wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. Army officials announced yesterday that the hospital commander, Maj. Gen. George W. Weightman, had been relieved of duty.
In announcing that Harvey had resigned, Gates expressed disappointment that Army leaders were not taking the situation seriously enough.
"I am disappointed that some in the Army have not adequately appreciated the seriousness of the situation pertaining to outpatient care at Walter Reed," he said in a brief statement at the Pentagon. "Some have shown too much defensiveness and have not shown enough focus on digging into and addressing the problems."
He also said he is concerned that some Army leaders hadn't communicated well enough that caring for wounded troops is their top priority.
"Addressing (troops' and their families') concerns about the quality of their outpatient experience is critically important," Gates said. "Our wounded soldiers and their families have sacrificed much, and they deserve the best we can offer."
In contrast to his criticism of Army leaders, Gates praised the medical staff at Walter Reed for "their professionalism and dedication to providing caring treatment."
"From what I have learned, the problems at Walter Reed appear to be problems of leadership," he said "The Walter Reed doctors, nurses and other staff are among the best and the most caring in the world. They deserve our continued deepest thanks and strongest support."
Harvey had been secretary of the Army since Nov. 19, 2004. Gates announced that Undersecretary of the Army Pete Geren will serve as acting secretary until a new secretary is in place. Geren served as acting secretary of the Air Force from July to November 2005.
Army officials announced after Gates' news conference that Maj. Gen. Eric R. Schoomaker will be the new commander of Walter Reed Army Medical Center and North Atlantic Regional Medical Command. Schoomaker currently is the commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command at Fort Detrick, Md.
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books; and, by criminal justice online leadership.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Soldiers Get Joint, Combined Training in Granite Triangle Exercise
By Staff Sgt. Jon Soucy, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service
Va., Feb. 28, 2007 – The gray clouds seemed to turn darker with each passing minute. The sun was blotted out from the darkened sky as a dark shadow loomed overhead, a whirlwind of air blowing leaves, grass and nearly everything not tied down across the field. Four New Hampshire Army National Guard soldiers rushed to complete their mission in the downdraft created by a U.S. Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter, one of the U.S. military's largest helicopters, as it hovered close to the ground. The soldiers from Company C, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain), rushed to sling load a Humvee to a yellow hook dangling at head level from the hovering aircraft.
The sling-load training was part of Exercise Granite Triangle, an annual training exercise that ran here Feb. 11 to 25. The exercise brought together about 250 U.S. military personnel, including a large National Guard contingent, and Canadian troops from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Active Army, Army Reserve, Navy and Marine Corps personnel also took part.
The Canadians commanded this year's exercise, which focused on military operations in urban terrain, identifying and reacting to improvised explosive devices, sling-loading and rappelling operations, and operating in a joint-service environment.
Col. W.A. MacDonald, commander of the 36th Canadian Brigade Group, was the Granite Triangle commander. The two-week event was capped off with a field training exercise that incorporated all of the training. The soldiers were familiar with most of the tasks, but the chance to work with members of other services was one of the most valuable parts of the exercise, most agreed.
"It seems like everything is a joint operation today," said Army Spc. Jacob Mavrogeorge, of Company C. "The hardest thing is being able to recognize ranks sometimes."
Others agreed. "It's nice because you never know who you're going to pick up if you need help (if deployed). It could be the Air Force, Marines or Navy," said Army Spc. Justin McNeff, also with Company C.
U.S. soldiers have worked hand in hand with Canadian soldiers during previous exercises, but that changed this year. Because the main contingent of Canadian troops who take part in the exercise is currently deployed, Canadians commanded the exercise, but no Canadian ground troops participated.
"Last year we did more of a coalition-type thing with the Canadians," said Pfc. Andrew Cormier, of the New Hampshire Army Guard's 237th Military Police Battalion. "They're overseas right now, so we haven't gotten to do anything like that."
But the Guard soldiers learned a lot while working with the Canadians in years past. "It was great," Cormier said. "Those guys know their stuff. Those guys are right on it, right on every time. It was good to see what they do and what we do. It was a good time, and I think it helped out knowing if we do go overseas we can actually (work together) if attached to a coalition force."
Going overseas is in the near future for Cormier and his unit as they are slated for a rotation to Iraq. Because of that, the training had an added impact for many of the 237th's soldiers.
"Well, it's teaching us to keep our heads down," Cormier said. "We convoy here, watching for IEDs and things like that. We don't just ride in the truck and come over and then mount up. We're mounted when we leave and mounted when we come home. We're mounted anywhere we go."
But the training also had elements that could be applied to the National Guard's state missions. "It gives us, as a company, more mobility for any at-home emergency calls that we might do, like (responding to) flooding," McNeff said, referring to the sling-load training. "If we have to move people like we did last spring and fall or if we have to move any equipment over flood areas."
Many soldiers thought the sling-loading operations were among the best parts of the training. "Getting under the chopper," said Army Spc. Adam Haggett of Company C about his favorite part of the training. "Just the adrenaline rush from having the chopper five feet over your head. I can't even explain it, just the feeling you have when you're under there is just amazing."
Cormier said that that the visit by Maj. Gen. Kenneth Clark, the adjutant general of the New Hampshire Guard, was one of the most memorable parts of the exercise. "The general came in and saw what we were doing," Cormier said, "and, hopefully, he was impressed, because I was impressed with what we were doing."
Police and military personnel who have authored books in addition to criminal justice online leadership sponsored the publication of this article.
Special to American Forces Press Service
Va., Feb. 28, 2007 – The gray clouds seemed to turn darker with each passing minute. The sun was blotted out from the darkened sky as a dark shadow loomed overhead, a whirlwind of air blowing leaves, grass and nearly everything not tied down across the field. Four New Hampshire Army National Guard soldiers rushed to complete their mission in the downdraft created by a U.S. Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter, one of the U.S. military's largest helicopters, as it hovered close to the ground. The soldiers from Company C, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain), rushed to sling load a Humvee to a yellow hook dangling at head level from the hovering aircraft.
The sling-load training was part of Exercise Granite Triangle, an annual training exercise that ran here Feb. 11 to 25. The exercise brought together about 250 U.S. military personnel, including a large National Guard contingent, and Canadian troops from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Active Army, Army Reserve, Navy and Marine Corps personnel also took part.
The Canadians commanded this year's exercise, which focused on military operations in urban terrain, identifying and reacting to improvised explosive devices, sling-loading and rappelling operations, and operating in a joint-service environment.
Col. W.A. MacDonald, commander of the 36th Canadian Brigade Group, was the Granite Triangle commander. The two-week event was capped off with a field training exercise that incorporated all of the training. The soldiers were familiar with most of the tasks, but the chance to work with members of other services was one of the most valuable parts of the exercise, most agreed.
"It seems like everything is a joint operation today," said Army Spc. Jacob Mavrogeorge, of Company C. "The hardest thing is being able to recognize ranks sometimes."
Others agreed. "It's nice because you never know who you're going to pick up if you need help (if deployed). It could be the Air Force, Marines or Navy," said Army Spc. Justin McNeff, also with Company C.
U.S. soldiers have worked hand in hand with Canadian soldiers during previous exercises, but that changed this year. Because the main contingent of Canadian troops who take part in the exercise is currently deployed, Canadians commanded the exercise, but no Canadian ground troops participated.
"Last year we did more of a coalition-type thing with the Canadians," said Pfc. Andrew Cormier, of the New Hampshire Army Guard's 237th Military Police Battalion. "They're overseas right now, so we haven't gotten to do anything like that."
But the Guard soldiers learned a lot while working with the Canadians in years past. "It was great," Cormier said. "Those guys know their stuff. Those guys are right on it, right on every time. It was good to see what they do and what we do. It was a good time, and I think it helped out knowing if we do go overseas we can actually (work together) if attached to a coalition force."
Going overseas is in the near future for Cormier and his unit as they are slated for a rotation to Iraq. Because of that, the training had an added impact for many of the 237th's soldiers.
"Well, it's teaching us to keep our heads down," Cormier said. "We convoy here, watching for IEDs and things like that. We don't just ride in the truck and come over and then mount up. We're mounted when we leave and mounted when we come home. We're mounted anywhere we go."
But the training also had elements that could be applied to the National Guard's state missions. "It gives us, as a company, more mobility for any at-home emergency calls that we might do, like (responding to) flooding," McNeff said, referring to the sling-load training. "If we have to move people like we did last spring and fall or if we have to move any equipment over flood areas."
Many soldiers thought the sling-loading operations were among the best parts of the training. "Getting under the chopper," said Army Spc. Adam Haggett of Company C about his favorite part of the training. "Just the adrenaline rush from having the chopper five feet over your head. I can't even explain it, just the feeling you have when you're under there is just amazing."
Cormier said that that the visit by Maj. Gen. Kenneth Clark, the adjutant general of the New Hampshire Guard, was one of the most memorable parts of the exercise. "The general came in and saw what we were doing," Cormier said, "and, hopefully, he was impressed, because I was impressed with what we were doing."
Police and military personnel who have authored books in addition to criminal justice online leadership sponsored the publication of this article.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Gates Promises Fewer, Shorter, More Predictable Guard Deployments
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 27, 2007 – The Defense Department is committed to implementing changes in policy that will mean fewer, shorter and more predictable deployments for reserve-component troops, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the National Guard's 54 adjutants general today. Speaking to the Adjutants General Association of the United States mid-winter conference, Gates said his goal is for Guard members to serve a one-year deployment no more often than every five years.
This met with resounding applause by the adjutants general, whose state forces have been strained in the past five years supporting federal and state missions of historical proportions.
Since Sept. 11, 2001, more than 275,000 Guard members have been mobilized in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. This, in addition to state emergencies such as snow storms, floods and forest fires, and border-patrol missions have heavily strained pools of National Guard troops available for deployment. In a historical mobilization in response to a natural disaster, 50,000 Guard members were called up in 2005 from across the nation in support of Hurricane Katrina disaster relief.
Until now, National Guard troops called up for the Army's standard one-year tour in Iraq would actually serve for 18 months, including pre-deployment training and post-deployment administrative requirements. Gates is imposing a one-year limitation to the length of deployment for National Guard soldiers effectively immediately, he said.
The defense secretary stressed, though, that some troops may be caught in the start of the cycle and face deployments faster than once every five years. His department is looking at developing compensation for those who serve additional mobilizations, and officials are reviewing hardship policies that allow for the exemption of some troops based on personal circumstances. The one-to-five-year cycle does not include activations for state emergencies.
Gates said the influx of 92,000 troops into the active Army and Marine Corps over the next five years should help take some of the load off of the reserve component. He said the larger pool of ground forces available will make it less likely Guard troops will be needed for deployments.
"The goal is to distribute more fairly and more effectively the burdens of war among our active and reserve components, while providing more predictable schedule of mobilizations and deployments for troops their families and civilian employers," Gates said.
Gates said that since Sept. 11, 2001, the Guard has undergone a "remarkable transformation" from a strategic reserve to an operational reserve, and he pledged additional resources to help keep the Guard ready.
In the next two fiscal-year budgets, Gates said, the Defense Department is asking for $9 billion to reset and reequip the Guard. Many units face severe shortages after returning from deployments with either missing or broken equipment.
"Reconstituting and resetting the Guard and reserve ... is the top priority for the Department of Defense," Gates said.
Gates' goal is a National Guard that is fully manned, trained and equipped and capable of taking on a range of traditional and nontraditional missions at home and abroad, he said.
Despite the strain on the National Guard, Gates said, recruiting and retention numbers show that troops still want to serve and believe in the mission. In fiscal 2006, the Army National Guard exceeded its retention goals by 18 percent. Also that fiscal year, the Guard reached 99 percent of its recruiting goal and signed up 19,000 more soldiers than in fiscal 2005. The Army National Guard had a net increase of 14,000 soldiers in the past year, Gates said.
Other recent changes include rescinding the policy that stated a Guard member could not be activated for more than 24-months in a six-year enlistment. That caused the Army to have to put units together in a piecemeal manner, sometimes from different states, Gates said.
Also, DoD will quit the practice of slicing up units to fill deployment demands. This happened to many states that had to cough up cookie-cutter-sized task forces, leaving odd-sized units back home basically non-deployable as a unit. "It is important, I believe, that citizen-soldiers who live together and train also deploy and fight together," Gates aid.
Gates also has directed officials to minimize the use of "stop-loss," a policy that freezes personnel in specific jobs or units and prevents them from getting out or changing jobs.
All of these changes represent a shift in how DoD intends to use the Guard and reserve in the future, Gates said.
"In the future, our troops should be deployed or mobilized less often, for shorter periods of time and with more predictability and with more quality of life for themselves and their families," Gates said.
One adjutant general thanked Gates for implementing the one-year deployment. "We've promised this to our employers and families back home. It means a lot to them," he said.
He asked for support in preventing the "creep" of additional pre-mobilization training and post-deployment administrative requirements added on. "We ask that you help us hold that line," he said.
Gates responded, "We've made a commitment. We need to keep our word."
Gates also praised reservists for giving leaders unabashed feedback. Gates said that when he eats with troops in Iraq or Afghanistan, they never hold back in telling him what they think.
"America's citizen-soldiers are unique in the history, ... not just because of their patriotism, dedication and skill, but because they are American citizens first and foremost," Gates said. "Thus, they are not overly impressed with rank, and they're not afraid to ask questions or offer advice or criticism.
"I hope we never change that, because it means American democracy is planted firmly in the spirit and the hearts of our citizen soldiers," he said.
National Guard Chief Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum introduced Gates, and said that in just a month Gates has announced long requested and desired changes in the mobilization policy for the reserve components.
"He listens. He's smart. He is a decisive, visionary leader who is sensitive to the citizen soldier and does appreciate and understand its critical role and essentiality in the defense of America today," Blum said.
Criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books sponsored this article.
Photos Worth 1,000 Patriotic Words for Group
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 27, 2007 – Two nonprofit groups that support servicemembers are inviting amateur and professional photographers to look through their viewfinders with a patriotic eye for the 2007 "I Love America Day Photo Contest." The organizations -- "Flags Across the Nation" and the "Military Family Network" - both are members of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting the ways Americans and the corporate sector support the nation's servicemembers.
Through its Community Connections Partnership program, of which Flags Across the Nation is a member, the Military Family Network supports the grassroots efforts of military-friendly organizations across the country, Peabody said. Flags Across the Nation is employing this partnership to help promote its photo contest.
"We're helping them promote it in (Hampton, Va.)," Peabody said. "We're having a huge ... push in combination with what we're doing with the Virginia Air and Space (Center) here throughout the month of March, which is free admission ... for all military families and veterans."
The organization will be displaying Flags Across the Nation artwork, as well as promoting this year's photo contest, she added.
Eileen Schwartz founded Flags Across the Nation with the goal of encouraging patriotism through the arts. She created "I Love America Day," first observed March 19, 2006, and later, the photo contest in celebration of that day, she said.
"I thought it was really important that we look at the really positive things about America and appreciate our freedom and really show respect for the American flag," she said. "There's no holiday at that time, and I wanted to bring recognition to the spirit of American and support for the troops."
This year marks the first photo contest, which coincides with Flags Across the Nation's second annual art contest of the same theme. So far the group has received about 100 photos for consideration.
"We wanted thousands," Schwartz said. "We just really, really encourage people to send us a photo."
Those who would like to enter the photo contest must submit via e-mail one unpublished photo that fits into one of five categories. The categories are: patriotism, liberty and freedom, military, Americana scenes of landscape culture, and images of the American flag.
All entries must be received no later than midnight Eastern Time on March 19. Thirteen entries will be selected to be included in a photo quilt that will become part of Flags Across the Nation's traveling exhibit, Schwartz said. Of those 13, three top photos will receive prizes.
"The top prize is $300 ... and every selected winner is going receive a 'Made in America' American flag," she said. "We picked 13 to honor the American flag and pay respect to the 13 original colonies and the 13 original states."
Criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books sponsored this article.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 27, 2007 – Two nonprofit groups that support servicemembers are inviting amateur and professional photographers to look through their viewfinders with a patriotic eye for the 2007 "I Love America Day Photo Contest." The organizations -- "Flags Across the Nation" and the "Military Family Network" - both are members of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting the ways Americans and the corporate sector support the nation's servicemembers.
Through its Community Connections Partnership program, of which Flags Across the Nation is a member, the Military Family Network supports the grassroots efforts of military-friendly organizations across the country, Peabody said. Flags Across the Nation is employing this partnership to help promote its photo contest.
"We're helping them promote it in (Hampton, Va.)," Peabody said. "We're having a huge ... push in combination with what we're doing with the Virginia Air and Space (Center) here throughout the month of March, which is free admission ... for all military families and veterans."
The organization will be displaying Flags Across the Nation artwork, as well as promoting this year's photo contest, she added.
Eileen Schwartz founded Flags Across the Nation with the goal of encouraging patriotism through the arts. She created "I Love America Day," first observed March 19, 2006, and later, the photo contest in celebration of that day, she said.
"I thought it was really important that we look at the really positive things about America and appreciate our freedom and really show respect for the American flag," she said. "There's no holiday at that time, and I wanted to bring recognition to the spirit of American and support for the troops."
This year marks the first photo contest, which coincides with Flags Across the Nation's second annual art contest of the same theme. So far the group has received about 100 photos for consideration.
"We wanted thousands," Schwartz said. "We just really, really encourage people to send us a photo."
Those who would like to enter the photo contest must submit via e-mail one unpublished photo that fits into one of five categories. The categories are: patriotism, liberty and freedom, military, Americana scenes of landscape culture, and images of the American flag.
All entries must be received no later than midnight Eastern Time on March 19. Thirteen entries will be selected to be included in a photo quilt that will become part of Flags Across the Nation's traveling exhibit, Schwartz said. Of those 13, three top photos will receive prizes.
"The top prize is $300 ... and every selected winner is going receive a 'Made in America' American flag," she said. "We picked 13 to honor the American flag and pay respect to the 13 original colonies and the 13 original states."
Criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books sponsored this article.
Gates Urges Congress to Pass 2007 Supplemental Budget
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 27, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates called on Congress to quickly act on the fiscal 2007 supplemental request to fund ongoing operations in the war on terror. Gates, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Marine Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee today. President Bush is asking for $93.4 billion for the Defense Department, and that money is vital, Gates said.
"If these additional funds are delayed, the military will be forced to engage in costly and counterproductive reprogramming actions starting this spring, in April, to make up the shortfall," Gates said. "Timely enactment of this supplemental request is critical to ensuring our troops in the field have the resources they need." Congress already has appropriated $70 billion for operations this fiscal year.
If approved, the supplement will pay for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, repairing and replacing equipment damaged or destroyed in combat and in new technologies to protect U.S. servicemembers. This last includes a new generation of body armor, better armored vehicles and countermeasures against improvised explosive devices. IEDs have caused around 70 percent of the U.S. casualties in Iraq, officials said.
The supplement also will provide funds for training and equipping the Iraqi and Afghan security forces. Gates said the request is a large increase for Afghan forces. "I would note that while our country is properly focused on the serious situation in Iraq, it is critical that the gains made in Afghanistan these past few years not be allowed to slip away," he said.
Gates said Congress may have "sticker shock" over the DoD request. If the supplemental request is approved, the department would spend more than $700 billion this fiscal year. "Please consider that, at about 4 percent of America's gross domestic product, the amount of money the United States is projected to spend on defense this year is actually a smaller percentage of GDP than when I left government 14 years ago," Gates said.
The secretary said that four cents on the dollar is not too much to pay when the country is facing a myriad of other problems besides the war on terror. Gates said that Iran and North Korea have nuclear ambitions and are known proliferators. China and Russia are walking uncertain paths to the future and are "pursuing sophisticated military modernization programs."
He also said there is a range of other potential flashpoints in the world. "In this strategic environment, the resources we devote to defense at this critical time should be at the level to adequately meet those challenges," he said.
Criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who authored books sponsored this article.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 27, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates called on Congress to quickly act on the fiscal 2007 supplemental request to fund ongoing operations in the war on terror. Gates, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Marine Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee today. President Bush is asking for $93.4 billion for the Defense Department, and that money is vital, Gates said.
"If these additional funds are delayed, the military will be forced to engage in costly and counterproductive reprogramming actions starting this spring, in April, to make up the shortfall," Gates said. "Timely enactment of this supplemental request is critical to ensuring our troops in the field have the resources they need." Congress already has appropriated $70 billion for operations this fiscal year.
If approved, the supplement will pay for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, repairing and replacing equipment damaged or destroyed in combat and in new technologies to protect U.S. servicemembers. This last includes a new generation of body armor, better armored vehicles and countermeasures against improvised explosive devices. IEDs have caused around 70 percent of the U.S. casualties in Iraq, officials said.
The supplement also will provide funds for training and equipping the Iraqi and Afghan security forces. Gates said the request is a large increase for Afghan forces. "I would note that while our country is properly focused on the serious situation in Iraq, it is critical that the gains made in Afghanistan these past few years not be allowed to slip away," he said.
Gates said Congress may have "sticker shock" over the DoD request. If the supplemental request is approved, the department would spend more than $700 billion this fiscal year. "Please consider that, at about 4 percent of America's gross domestic product, the amount of money the United States is projected to spend on defense this year is actually a smaller percentage of GDP than when I left government 14 years ago," Gates said.
The secretary said that four cents on the dollar is not too much to pay when the country is facing a myriad of other problems besides the war on terror. Gates said that Iran and North Korea have nuclear ambitions and are known proliferators. China and Russia are walking uncertain paths to the future and are "pursuing sophisticated military modernization programs."
He also said there is a range of other potential flashpoints in the world. "In this strategic environment, the resources we devote to defense at this critical time should be at the level to adequately meet those challenges," he said.
Criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who authored books sponsored this article.
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