Whose the Adult Here; Bruce Dickinson or Fred Astaire

Some weeks ago, George Will wrote a column complaining about the prevalence of blue jeans in adult contemporary life. He spends a Lot of time lambasting adults for wearing them, saying those of us who do so are immature and chronic adolescents, and refers to denim as a 'blight'.

Will suggests modern men look to someone named Fred Astaire as an example for proper fashion and decorum. Apparently, Mr. Astaire was a movie star well known for singing, dancing, and being a snappy dresser. Kind of makes a guy wonder, doesn't it? For some reason, Will holds up Fred Astaire as a paragon of adult, manly virtue. Well, let's take a gander and some lyrics, shall we?

-'I'm feeling so bad, I wish you'd make the music Dreamy and sad...' from One for my Baby

-'You've got all the qualities of Peter Pan I'd look far before I'd find a sweeter pan' from Funny Face

- 'Heaven, I'm in Heaven,And my heart beats so that I can hardly speak;And I seem to find the happiness I seek. When we're out together dancing, cheek to cheek...' from Cheek to Cheek

These are the thoughts of teenage boy, bored out of his mind in Global Studies, passing the time by ogling the girl sitting a row over and two desks down who doesn't realize the once strategically placed rip in the back of her acid wash jeans has ridden up too high.

Anyway, let's compare and contrast these lyrics to the 80's era whipping boy, scourge of the PMRC, Iron Maiden:

-'I'm waiting in my cold cell when the bell begins to chime. Reflecting on my past life and it doesn't have much time. 'Cause at 5 o'clock they take me to the Gallows Pole. The sands of time for me are running low...' from Hallowed be thy Name

-' Bandits at 8 o'clock move in behind us. Ten ME-109's out of the sun. Ascending and turning out spitfires to face them. Heading straight for them I press my guns...' from Aces High

-'In a foreign field he lay. Lonely soldier, unknown grave. On his dying words he prays. Tell the world of Paschendale...' from Paschendale

Judge for yourself gentle reader. But know this, Fred Astaire was kown for dancing to happy, smiley songs. Iron Maiden's lead singer, Bruce Dickinson, served in the British Army, is a competative fencer, and flies airline jets in his spare time.

For more about Will, visit http://www.gulfwarone.com/. His novel, 'A Line Through the Desert' can be purchased here.

Gates Urges Graduating Class to Embrace Public Service

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

June 13, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates implored America's youth to weigh the virtues of a career devoted to serving the country, saying "no life is complete without service to others." In a commencement speech to the outgoing class of the University of Washington in Seattle, Gates called on the graduates to translate their campus activism to the United States civic system writ large.

"If, in the 21st century, America is to be a force for good in the world – for freedom, social justice, the rule of law, and the inherent value of each person; if America is to be a beacon for all who are oppressed; if America is to exercise leadership consistent with our better angels, then the most able and idealistic of today's young people must step forward and accept the burden and the duty of public service," he said.

Gates, who accepted an honorary degree from the university recognizing his 43-year career in public service, extolled the merits of committing one's life work to bettering his or her country. The defense secretary, known for his biting criticism of Washington, D.C. culture, cast aside cynicism in describing the motives of public servants.

"Each person in public service has his or her own story and motives," he told the young audience packed into Husky Stadium. "But I believe, if you scratch deeply enough, you will find that those who serve – no matter how outwardly tough or jaded or egotistical – are, in their heart of hearts, romantics and idealists and optimists.

"We actually believe we can make a difference, that we can make the lives of others better, that we can make a positive difference in the life of the greatest country in the history of the world," he added.

Gates remarked on the university's distinguished record of matriculating students who continue on to public service, sending some of the highest numbers of graduates into the Peace Corps. He also noted the graduating class contribution to the U.S. military.

"Sixty four members of your class are becoming new lieutenants and ensigns in the United States Navy, Marines, Army, and Air Force – following a long line of University of Washington grads who proved their valor on the battlefield," he said, noting that the school is tied with Virginia Tech and Texas A&M for graduating the most Medal of Honor recipients of any civilian American university.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all ROTC cadets and midshipmen on campus, University of Washington graduates currently serving, and especially the veterans who are pursuing their education – some of whom are graduating today," he said. "You have served your nation honorably, and your nation is proud of and grateful for what you have done."

The defense secretary recognized the more than two million American public servants wearing military uniforms and deployed overseas.

"They are risking their lives in service to our country every day, fighting in the mountains of Afghanistan to the streets of Iraq. Their courage is awesome, their tenacity boundless," Gates said. "As junior Michael Beatty – an Iraq Army vet and co-founder of Husky United Military Veterans put it: 'If you don't do your job, your brother is going to pay for it with his blood.'

"That spirit is the reason these extraordinary men and women have rightfully been called the new 'greatest generation,'" he continued.

Despite millions of examples of public service, Gates said he worries that campus activism sometimes fails to translate to engagement on the national scale.

"Even in last year's election, with all the challenges facing our nation – two wars, a meltdown on Wall Street and an economy in free-fall – not even half of eligible voters in the college-age bracket cast a ballot," he said. "So, I worry – and I worry greatly – that too many young Americans, so public-minded in campus and community affairs, turn aside when it comes to our political process or careers in public service."

Given that those who enter public life are frequently repaid for their commitment and sacrifice with criticism and even character assassination, the rewards of patriotism and selflessness outweigh public service's less auspicious aspects, Gates said.

"I entered public life 43 years ago, and no one is more familiar with its hassles, frustrations, and sacrifices than I am," he said. "Certainly the challenges are daunting, and the current state of our politics isn't exactly the best marketing scheme for attracting new talent. The pay and working conditions can be difficult, at best.

"However, there is another aspect to public service about which Americans hear very little," he added, "the idealism, the joy, and the satisfaction and the fulfillment."

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation Raises More Than $300,000

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

June 13, 2009 - The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation recently raised more than $300,000 at its 23rd Annual Washington Gala to benefit high school and college students from families of active-duty and former Marines. Gen. James F. Amos, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, was the military guest of honor at the event here June 6. He thanked the more than 300 guests for their continued support of the foundation.

"The 2009 Washington Gala was extremely successful," Clint Nesmith, national director of volunteers and event sponsorship at the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, said. "Our scholarships provide life-changing financial support for students while increasing their chances for success in their personal and professional lives."

This year, more than 80 students will receive about $3,400 each to further their education at a university of their choice. Kyle James, a scholarship recipient and son of Marine Maj. Brian Joseph James, who died in a July 1992 car crash, is very grateful for the award.

"My father, by all accounts, was an extraordinary man," James said. "I know this not just by the few precious memories I have of him or by what I have simply been told, but also by what I have seen and by what I have experienced as a recipient of this scholarship. My hope is that other students will be afforded a chance to experience this bond that sets the Marine Corps on a different level."

Since 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has provided academic scholarships to children of Marines and Navy corpsmen serving with Marines, with particular attention given to children whose parent was killed or wounded in action.

Children of active-duty or former Marines are eligible to apply for these scholarships. A parent must have served honorably for more than 90 days in the Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve. Applicants are expected to have a satisfactory academic record and have participated in civic and/or school activities.

According to Nesmith, these scholarships are vital to Marine families, as the cost of higher education continues to rise.

"The situation among many Marine families presents a sobering reality," Nesmith said. "Today, the average household income of our scholarship recipients is under $43,000."

To meet the current and future needs of educating children of Marines, the troop-support group recently launched an aggressive capital drive, "The American Patriots Campaign." Through the "Heroes Tribute Scholarship Fund" and "Need-based Scholarships," the group is looking to bolster its existing programs for children of Marines.

Gates Introduces McChrystal to NATO Defense Ministers

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates introduced the new commander of the alliance's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan to the NATO and partner-nation defense ministers here today. Army Lt. Gen. Stanley McChrystal stopped here on his way to his new command in Afghanistan. The general, who also has been confirmed to receive a fourth star, will take command in Kabul tomorrow.

McChrystal attended the meeting of ISAF contributing nations. NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer spoke for all of the ministers in welcoming the general and wishing him luck.

"Our heads of government have declared NATO's effort in Afghanistan to be the alliance's highest operational priority," Gates said as he introduced the general. "Because General McChrystal will command your young men and women in Afghanistan, the secretary general and I thought it an appropriate courtesy to you to introduce him to you in person and have him present to hear your thoughts in this meeting."

NATO's defense ministers are in their second day of a conference here, and Afghanistan has been the primary subject of discussion.

"I am honored to be selected to command the brave men and women who make up the ISAF, and I assure you I take the responsibility very, very seriously," McChrystal told the alliance's defense ministers. "I am also privileged to be here today to listen to your deliberations and to take those thoughts and guidance [with me] as I go forward."

The discussions today will cover the gamut of issues that will confront the general as he takes command. Today, 56,000 Americans and 33,000 NATO and allied-nation servicemembers are in Afghanistan. By the end of the year, those numbers will grow to 68,000 and 35,000, respectively.

Progress in the country has not been as fast or as complete as the NATO leaders wanted, de Hoop Scheffer acknowledged. Still, he said, progress in security and governance is evident in some areas.

Security for the Afghan elections in August is the most immediate goal for the NATO forces, the secretary general said. The fact that the elections are the first proposed and conducted by the Afghan government is a sign of progress, he said, and he noted that the Afghan army now leads more than half of the operations conducted in the country.

Training for the Afghan military and police is a priority for NATO, the secretary general said, because the alliance cannot leave the country until Afghans take responsibility for the security of their own country.

Gates, Secretary General Express Satisfaction With NATO Conference

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - Afghanistan dominated the discussions at the two-day NATO defense ministers conference that concluded here today, and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said they are pleased with the results. The men spoke during separate news conferences at the end of a meeting of nations contributing forces to NATO's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

The NATO ministers have approved in principle establishing a new military headquarters for ISAF to oversee day-to-day tactical operations.

"The logic is clear, ... because the mission in Afghanistan has now grown to more than 60,000 forces, and it will keep growing," de Hoop Scheffer said. Noting the need for cooperation among ISAF, the Afghan security forces, aid donors and other international entities, the secretary general said the commander of ISAF cannot handle all of the international coordination and devote enough attention to day-to-day military operations.

American officials have nominated Army Lt. Gen. David Rodriguez to fill the job, and once the headquarters is established, it will be solely an ISAF position. "This three-star general will wear one hat – an ISAF hat," de Hoop Scheffer said.

The new command will report to a new ISAF commander. Army Lt. Gen. Stanley McChrystal stopped here on his way to Afghanistan, where he will take command of ISAF U.S. Forces Afghanistan tomorrow. "This morning, I introduced General Stan McChrystal to the ministers," Gates said. "We all look forward to working with him as he brings fresh thinking and unparalleled energy and determination to Kabul."

For the immediate future, the alliance ministers confirmed that they have generated the forces needed to provide assistance for Afghanistan's elections in August. Eight battalions and their enablers will flow into the country for an up-tick of roughly 10,000 troops, de Hoop Scheffer said. The troops will provide a "third ring" of security for the election process after the first ring of the Afghan National Police and the second ring of the Afghan National Army, he added.

The extra troops will help in transporting election materials and protecting election workers, and will provide support in an impartial manner, the secretary general said.

NATO will provide higher-level training for the Afghan National Army and training and mentoring for the Afghan National Police. The alliance also will help to train a gendarmerie – a cross between police and military – for the country, de Hoop Scheffer said.

The alliance also will deploy its AWACS aircraft to Afghanistan to provide airborne warning and control capability. De Hoop Scheffer said the skies over Afghanistan are getting crowded with military and civilian aircraft, as well as with unmanned aerial vehicles. With very little ground-based radar capabilities, the NATO aircraft essentially will provide air traffic control, he said.

World War II Air Crash Monument Finds Permanent Home at Fort Myer

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - A granite monument dedicated to 40 U.S. servicemembers who perished in an air crash in Australia during World War II has found a permanent home at Fort Myer, Va. Yesterday's dedication ceremony for the Bakers Creek air crash memorial was attended by Army Secretary Pete Geren; David Stuart, deputy chief of mission for the Australian embassy; Australian Air Vice-Marshal Kym Osley, head of the embassy's defense staff; other senior officials; and a number of relatives and friends of the accident victims.

On June 14, 1943, an Army Air Corps B-17C Flying Fortress crashed at Bakers Creek, near Mackey in Queensland. The troops aboard the bomber were being flown back to New Guinea after enjoying some leave time in Australia. Forty servicemembers died; there was just one survivor.

The monument now is located near Fort Myer's Selfridge Gate, which enters into Arlington National Cemetery. Since November 2006, the monument had stood outside the Australian embassy here, and before that it briefly had been displayed at the World War II memorial.

Geren directed that the monument be placed on Fort Myer. The memorial, he said at the ceremony, serves to honor the passing of "40 brave American soldiers" and also celebrates "the enduring friendship between the United States and Australia."

Due to operational security concerns at that time, Geren said, the families of the deceased servicemembers weren't told of details of the tragedy until years later.

"Today, with Arlington Cemetery as the backdrop, we pay a long and overdue tribute to 40 brave Americans," Geren said. "And, as we do, we honor all soldiers -- past and present, American and Australian – who answer the call to duty and offer their lives [and] offer their sacrifice for the cause of freedom."

The monument's placement at Selfridge Gate is a fitting location, Geren said, because the entryway is named after Army Lt. Thomas Selfridge, an aviator who perished as a result of a crash during the military's first aircraft test flight, which took place on Fort Myer on Sept. 9, 1908. American air pioneer Orville Wright, who was aboard the aircraft with Selfridge, was injured in the crash.

Selfridge gave his life for his country, "as did the 40 brave Americans we honor today," Geren said.

Osley said his country's embassy has enjoyed being the custodian of the Bakers Creek monument for the past two years, but that the monument's new location "is perfect." Another monument dedicated to the servicemembers who died during the Bakers Creek air crash is located in Mackay in Queensland.

"It's very heartfelt for Australians to honor these people in their own way back in Mackay and to now honor them over here," Osley said. "They're all very much heroes to all of us in Australia."

The Bakers Creek crash was the worst accident involving a transport plane in the southwest Pacific theater during World War II, said Robert S. Cutler, a retired George Washington University professor and executive director of the Bakers Creek Memorial Association. Cutler's late father, Samuel, was an Army Air Corps captain who supervised the passenger loading aboard the B-17 before its ill-fated flight.

At yesterday's Fort Myer ceremony, Cutler said he was "elated" that the monument, which was constructed in 2003, is now permanently situated at Fort Myer. The monument's pink granite base, he said, was donated by the Australian government.

The memorial "is something that a lot of patriotic veterans felt they needed to 'make right,'" Cutler said.

Bob Finney, an 86-year-old military veteran from Erie, Pa., recalled at the ceremony that he was a U.S. sailor aboard a destroyer tender in the North Atlantic Ocean at the time of the death of his brother, Army Pvt. James E. Finney, in the Bakers Creek air crash.

"I think this is wonderful to have their names on that monument out there and knowing at least somebody has thought of them and finally recognized what they have done," Finney said.

NATO Will Continue Anti-piracy Missions, Secretary General Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - NATO will continue its anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden, Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said today. The alliance's defense ministers, who met here over the last two days, agreed to send the Standing NATO Maritime Battle Group 2 to relieve Battle Group 1, which is now operating in the area, de Hoop Scheffer said.

"That means that NATO will continue to play its role in the fight against piracy," he said.

The battle group represents six nations, with a possibility of other NATO nations contributing ships. "Other nations might be ready and willing to join at a certain stage," the secretary general said.

The NATO mission would have ended had the ministers not agreed to continue it, de Hoop Scheffer said. He added that it would be unacceptable for a political-military organization like NATO, with its huge inventory, to do otherwise.

"But NATO will be there," the secretary general said. "And it may be that the mission will be beefed up. I'm very happy with the results."

Logistics Agency Employee Finds Father, War Hero

By Beth Reece
Special to American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - Ron Moran spent so many years pining for the truth about his father that searching for clues became a habit. "Where's my dad? What happened to him?" he'd ask relatives when the void felt too deep. "It was this big secret. Even my granddad, who helped raise me for awhile, wouldn't tell me anything about who my father was. I didn't even know what he looked like," said Moran, customer relations division branch chief for the Defense Logistic Agency's information operations directorate.

Moran's mother, Frances, took to silence when her son asked questions. The only answer she ever gave was a name – Raymond – and vague talk about a heart attack and time served in the Navy during World War II.

Rootless and aggravated by his mother's refusal to lead him to his father, Moran turned to Navy personnel records, genealogy and eventually the Internet for answers. The results were always the same: no Social Security number, no leads.

When a sudden, massive stroke claimed his mother at age 85 in December 2003, Moran's longing for the father he never knew was replaced by grief. At 45, he was an only son about to bury his sole parent.

Moran spent the following days making funeral arrangements and settling his mother's modest estate with the help of his wife, Roben. It was she who pulled from the bottom of a wardrobe an orange plastic bag bearing the secrets – Moran's answers.

The Discovery

"I was getting together the clothes his mom would be laid out in when I noticed the bag," Roben said. "All I could feel was disbelief when I saw what was in it."

Like striking gold is how Moran described the feeling of finding that bag. Inside were wedding and honeymoon photos of his parents, pictures of a happy couple with children Moran recognized as cousins, plus Navy identification cards with Raymond Moran's service number.

"Come to find out, Mom had what I had been begging for all this time – pictures and everything I needed to finally find my dad," he said. "I just broke down looking at it all."

Moran took several "bittersweet" weeks to recover from his mother's death before resuming the search for his father. Then, in yet another letter to the National Personnel Records Center, he asked for a copy of his father's discharge papers, a "map" of the sailor's service history.

With a service number, the Navy could finally answer Moran's request.

"They sent me a list of the places he'd served and units he was with, as well as a list of all his medals. I also learned that he was in the Philippines during the outbreak of World War II."

Raymond Moran served aboard PBY Catalina patrol bomber seaplanes with Navy patrol squadrons 21 and 102, which fought the Japanese in the first weeks of World War II. The PBYs were designed for anti-submarine warfare and patrol bombing, but the Navy suffered such heavy losses they also were used for rescue and evacuation missions.

"Those guys were outnumbered, flying missions the planes weren't even designed for. Dad put his life on the line," said Ron Moran, who since has read much about the history of the units his father served in.

Many of Raymond Moran's fellow sailors died during intense fighting on the Philippine island of Corregidor or as prisoners of war during the Bataan Death March.

"It was just Dad's plane and a couple of others that made it out safely," Ron Moran said.

Learning about the father he'd always yearned for was only half the process of reuniting with him, but it was as far as Moran would get. Raymond Moran died in 1963, when Ron was 5.

"Ron will say, 'I wonder if I ever got to see my dad. I wonder if he ever got to hold me or look into my eyes,'" Roben said. "These are the kinds of things that run through his mind, and he can only imagine."

A War Hero

Today, Moran believes he is the son of a hero. His office is like a shrine, with medals, photographs of PBY seaplanes and Navy memorabilia filling the lamp-lit space.

Hoping to find one of his father's war buddies, Moran posted messages on the PBY Memorial Foundation Web site last summer. The son of a deceased Navy lieutenant responded to ask if Moran realized his father qualified for the Bronze Star for defending the Philippines from December 1941 to May 1942.

"Dad already had a Presidential Unit Citation for that period. But the Bronze Star – I thought that would be awesome," Moran said.

Virginia Sen. John Warner queried the Navy on Moran's behalf to learn that his father was, indeed, entitled to the Bronze Star, the U.S. military's fourth-highest award for bravery in combat. And if he wanted the medal, Moran was told, he could purchase one at any military clothing store.

"That just didn't seem right, me buying the medal when – if Dad was still alive – they would have presented the Bronze Star properly in a ceremony," he said.

Navy Cdr. Tiffany Schad took up Moran's cause. The former chief of the Defense Logistics Agency's director's staff group, Schad used personal contacts at the office of the Secretary of the Navy to gain Moran a gift he calls "the ultimate moment" of his career.

In an April 3 ceremony at the agency's headquarters here, Navy Rear Adm. Mark Heinrich, director of the logistics operations and readiness directorate, presented Moran his father's Bronze Star.

"It was beyond my imaginations -- the ceremony, the honor of having Admiral Heinrich present the medal, all for me and my Dad," Moran said.

Holding On

World War II wasn't the end of Raymond Moran's combat experience. He went on to fight in the Korean War and retired with 20 years of service before meeting Ron's mother.

What happened between them, Moran isn't sure. He knows they divorced the year he was born, but not why.

"It's a very important thing for a young man to have his father. Growing up, all the kids in school had dads. I wanted to know where mine was," he said.

Roben is certain Frances Moran truly loved her son "more than life itself," but for whatever reason, just couldn't share her thoughts on Raymond.

"I asked her once what happened to Ron's dad, and she shut the conversation up real quick and said, 'I don't want to talk about it. It's not up for discussion,'" Roben said.

Her mother-in-law could have had better health care – and Ron a better education – if things had been different and she'd pursued the military benefits she was entitled to, she added.

"But maybe she was somehow afraid Ron would be taken from her," Roben said.

While Moran still doesn't understand the reason for his mom's secrecy, he is not bitter. Instead, he takes pleasure in the family he has today.

"I have two stepsons, Eric and Brandon. They'd do anything for me, and I'd do anything for them," he boasted, passing a framed photo across his desk.

"And that's my new grandson. He was born just a couple days before the Bronze Star ceremony. Now that ... was amazing. I'm still flying high."

(Beth Reece works in the Defense Logistics Agency public affairs office.)

Army Marks 234 Years of Service, Sacrifice

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - Citing the organization's long history of selfless service and sacrifice, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III helped to commemorate the Army's 234th birthday today at a Pentagon ceremony. The U.S. Army officially celebrates its birthday June 14.

"This occasion marks the 234th year that ordinary men and women have become extraordinary citizens by answering the call of duty and placing the country in front of themselves," Lynn said to an audience of soldiers and other servicemembers in the Pentagon courtyard. "I'm humbled by this long tradition of service, reaching back even to the founding of our nation."

The Army tradition is expressed in a number of ways, he said, including in the actions and service of individual families.

Lynn recognized the Simpson family of Tennessee, whose generations of military service span nearly 100 years. Simpson family members served in Mexico, during World War II, in Vietnam and now in Afghanistan, he said.

"It's this kind of service and dedication that's the hallmark of the United States Army," he added.

Lynn also acknowledged the Army as the world's most formidable fighting force, and he credited family support as the dynamic that makes the Army such a strong, dependable organization. The Army couldn't be the institution it is without the families, he said.

"Our soldiers, of course, do not bear the burdens of combat alone," he continued. "When they sign up, they're also volunteering their families. Army families are a constant source of support and inspiration, and in many ways, they're the reasons our soldiers continue to serve."

Today's commemoration and cake cutting marks the start of a weeklong list of birthday activities all across the Army. The Army will hold its annual birthday ball here tomorrow, and on June 14, Army leadership will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. Also, individual Army posts will celebrate with 10-mile birthday runs.

This year is Army Secretary Pete Geren's final Army birthday celebration as the service's top official. It's important, he said, to take the time to reflect on the importance and the impact the U.S. Army has had on the history of the world.

"It's important for an organization such as ours ... to stop and reflect on its proud history," Geren said. "It's important to stop and think how different the history of the United States [and] the history of the world would be without the United States Army."

Geren cited the importance of remembering the sacrifice made by previous generations of soldiers and military members. The battlefields may be different throughout time, he said, but the sacrifice is the same.

"Reflect on those who fought in Desert Storm and ... those soldiers who stood all those years ago at Lexington and Concord," he said. "Reflect on that wife, that husband who's waiting home today for their loved ones to return, [because] they are living the same experiences and emotions a wife was living when her husband [or] her son faced down the British troops at Lexington and Concord.

"As we enjoy this week and blow out those candles and sing happy birthday," he continued, "it's so important to stop and think about what our soldiers have done. Think about how different today the world would be if it were not for the soldiers and families of the United States Army."

Defense Department Prepares Quadrennial Defense Review

By Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class William Selby
Special to American Forces Press Service

June 12, 2009 - Defense Department officials are preparing a far-ranging report on current and future goals as part of a congressional mandate. "It's really the mother of all reports to Congress," Amanda Dory, deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy, said of the Quadrennial Defense Review in a "DoDLive" bloggers roundtable yesterday.

Secretaries of defense have seized the reporting requirement "as an opportunity to articulate their vision for the department and to use it as a decision-making opportunity," Dory said.

Every four years since 1996, the QDR has outlined the department's institutional vision for all elements of its operations.

Dory said law requires the Defense Department to look 20 years into the future when evaluating the security environment to consider what capabilities it might need to address the challenges it would face.

"A second substantive element of the QDR is a national defense strategy that will explore what our strategic ends are, the ways we will endeavor to achieve those ends, and then the means we have available to pursue those," Dory said.

Another key element of the report is how the department measures its required activity in response to "presidential tasking," Dory told the bloggers. "That's a key force-planning and force-sizing determination." The QDR has a major impact on troops on the ground, Dory said, because Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has placed special emphasis on making the department more responsive to meeting their current needs.

"It may seem that a congressional report would be a bit esoteric and not relevant to the troops on the ground," she said. "But what makes it relevant to the troops on the ground really is the secretary's injunction to the department that what we need to do is focus on succeeding in the conflicts that we're in."

The report also has implications in terms of the way the department uses its resources, Dory said. "It has implications in terms of how we relate to our interagency partners, how our allies and friends see us in the world, and how our potential adversaries see us," she said.

The report is due to Congress in February.

(Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class William Selby works in the Defense Media Activity's emerging media directorate.)

MILITARY CONTRACTS June 13, 2009

NAVY
L-3 Communications Corp. – Communications Systems – West, Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a $59,805,804 fixed-price-incentive contract for the manufacture, test, and delivery of 9 SRQ-4(Ku) radio terminal sets for ship small surface combatants and 45 ARQ-58 RTSs for the MH-60R aircraft, including technical data. These upgraded Ku-Band systems will extend existing Hawklink connectivity from small surface combatants to the aircraft carrier and increase data rates between MH-60R to surface combatants. Work will be performed in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is expected to be completed in Jun. 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured under an electronic request for proposals; two offers were received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-C-0059).

Watts Constructors, LLC, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a $17,335,000 firm-fixed price contract to replace fuel pipelines at the Fleet Industrial Supply Center, Pearl Harbor. The work to be performed provides for the construction of new fuel transfer pipeline systems from a fuel pier to the main fuel pumphouse and storage tanks for three fuel products, ballast water, and contaminated fuel with valve stations, pumps and appurtenances. Work will be performed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Jul. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with six proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-09-C-1302).

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., McLean, Va., is being awarded a $7,753,379 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee performance-based type contract to provide program management support services for their C4ISR (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) business operations. This contract includes additional options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of the contract to an estimated $41,249,577. Work will be performed in Charleston, S.C., and is expected to be completed by June 2010. If all options are exercised, work could continue until June 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities web site and the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command E-commerce web site, with an unlimited number of proposals solicited and four offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity (N65236-09-D-3808).

Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $6,404,124 modification to previously awarded contract (N00178-04-C-2004) to exercise an option for continuing engineering support for engineering expertise to support research and development, total ship system engineering, and combat system engineering initiatives for the introduction of advanced technology into advanced combat systems, and for the modernization of current combat systems for surface ship combatants. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va., (90 percent), and Virginia Beach, Va., (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by Oct.2009. Contract funds in the amount of $3,862,265 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division is the contracting activity.

Rolls-Royce Defense Services, Inc., Indianapolis, Ind., is being awarded a $5,780,529 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide approximately 54,432 man-hours of contractor engineering technical services in support of the Naval Air Technical Data and Engineering Service Command, San Diego, Calif., services to be provided include on-site proficiency training, technical guidance, and evaluation of unusual field problems. Work will be performed at the Marine Corps Air Station,(MCAS) Cherry Point, N.C., (50 percent) and MCAS Yuma, Ariz., (50 percent), and is expected to be completed in Jun. 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to FAR 6.302-1. The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, Calif., is the contracting activity (N68936-09-D-0024).

AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Wyle Laboratories, Inc,. of Huntsville, Ala., for $58,479,586. This contract will provide data collection, interoperability assessments, research, analysis, and reliability test and engineering for the Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Interoperability Project. At this time $200,000 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt AFB, Neb., is the contracting activity (HC1047-05-D-4005)09-D-0001, FA8202-09-D-0001, FA8202-09-D-0003).

The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to University of Dayton Research Institute of Dayton, Ohio for a maximum $9,800,000. This contract is for the Quantitative Technology Assessment Program will utilize and further evolve quantitative technology assessment and systems engineering process, as needed to conduct technology assessment to aide Air Force research laboratories investment decision within high interest technology areas. At this time, $1,279,851 has been obligated. Det 1 AFRL/PKVA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8650-09-D-3944).

The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Ga., Technical Applied Research Corp., of Atlanta, Ga., for a Maximum $9,800,000. This action will provide the Quantitative Technology Assessment Program and further evolve QTA and systems engineering process, as needed to conduct technology assessment to aide Air Force Research Laboratories investment decision within high interest technology areas. At this time, $250,000 has been obligated. Det 1 AFRL/PKVA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8650-09-D-3945).

The Air Force is awarding a firm fixed price contract to Tatitlek Contractors, Inc., of Anchorage, Alaska for a maximum of $6,467,326. This contract action will provide for award for the construction of final denial barrier system at Hope, Lancer, Liberator, Tinker and Vance entry gate on Tinker Air Force Base. At this time, $6,467,326 has been obligated. 72d CONS, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is the contracting activity (FA8101-09-C-0022).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
MTP Drivetrain SVC LLC, Many, La.*, is being awarded a maximum $5,512,044 firm fixed price contract for truck transmission assembly. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There were 11 proposals originally solicited with four responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is June 10, 2014. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency, Warren (DSCC-ZG), Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-09-D-0032).

Army Releases May Suicide Data

The Army released suicide data for the month of May today, reporting one confirmed suicide and 16 potential suicides among active duty soldiers. In the April report, the Army reported seven active duty potential suicides. Since that time an additional suicide was reported, for a total of eight April potential suicides, three of which have been confirmed and five remain under investigation. There have been 82 reported active duty suicides in the Army during calendar year 2009. Of these, 45 have been confirmed as suicides, and 37 are pending final determination of manner death. For the same period in 2008, there were 51 suicides among active duty soldiers.

During May 2009, among reserve component soldiers who are not on active duty, there was one confirmed suicide and seven potential suicides; to date in 2009, among that same group, there have been 16 confirmed suicides, and 21 potential suicides are currently under investigation. For the same period in 2008, there were 23 suicides among reserve soldiers who were not on active duty.

In January, the Army implemented an Army-wide effort to combat the rise of suicide in its ranks. The Army mandated a suicide prevention stand-down that involved all 1.1 million soldiers; established a Suicide Prevention Task Force; has made dozens of improvements to Army policies, procedures and resources; and recruited additional psychological and behavioral health counselors.

"We have got to do better," said Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, "It's clear we have not found full solutions to this yet. But we are trying every remedy and seeking help from outside agencies that are experts in suicide prevention. There isn't a reasonable suicide prevention tool out there the Army won't potentially employ."

The Army's Suicide Prevention Task Force is focused on rapid improvements across the spectrum of health promotion, risk reduction and suicide prevention to ensure the Army's programs in these areas are coordinated, fully-resourced, and effective.

"As hard as this problem truly is, in some ways it is also very basic, because it requires caring for soldiers, and that's something we already know how to do," said Brig. Gen. Colleen McGuire, director, Army Suicide Prevention Task Force. "We must simultaneously get back to basics and optimize current programs to set conditions for future programs to tackle this problem."

The Army has identified additional crisis intervention resources available to the Army community. Soldiers and families in need of crisis assistance are strongly encouraged to contact Military OneSource or the Defense Center of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Outreach Center (DCoE). Trained consultants are available from both organizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The Military OneSource toll-free number for those residing in the continental United States is 1-800-342-9647, the Military One Source Web site can be found at http://www.militaryonesource.com. Overseas personnel should refer to the Military OneSource Web site for dialing instructions for their specific location.

The DCoE Outreach Center can be contacted at 1-866-966-1020, or at http://www.dcoe.health.mil/media/DCoE_News/DCoE_Outreach_Center.aspx.

The Army's most current suicide prevention information is located at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/.

Army's New Ground Combat Vehicle Development Underway

The Army announced today Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli will host a workshop June 15, 2009 to bring together knowledgeable individuals to offer information and opinions on a way ahead for the Army to develop a new ground combat vehicle. The Army is moving aggressively toward developing a new ground combat vehicle as part of its modernization.

"We will work to include both lessons from the current fight and what we've learned from technology and build a better vehicle," said Army Chief of Staff General George W. Casey, Jr. "Our goal is to move forward."

The Army is leading the analysis effort and will hold the workshop at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C. The meeting will allow multiple interested parties to present information and ideas, which will be developed and considered by a blue ribbon panel consisting of senior leaders from the Department of Defense and the Army. The panel will make a recommendation to senior Army leaders on the requirements for a new ground combat vehicle at a later date.

"The ground combat vehicle blue ribbon panel is in response to the recent decisions regarding the Future Combat Systems (FCS) manned ground vehicle program," said Gen. Chiarelli. "However, the Army is still in need of a vehicle that can protect soldiers, and cope with 21st century operational requirements. The blue ribbon panel will take a fresh look at these requirements including capabilities, technologies and lessons learned from the FCS program."

The panel's recommendations will inform U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command's (TRADOC) ongoing work on operational requirements for the ground combat vehicle.

The workshop participants will represent a broad spectrum of expertise in operating environments, platforms, threats, research and development, future requirements, and network considerations. Participants will include representatives from think tanks, retired general officers, currently serving officers, senior non-commissioned officers, and program managers.

For more information contact Lt. Col. Martin Downie, martin.downie@us.army.mil or 703-697-7591.

Squad-sized 'Super Units' May Best Confront Hybrid Warfare, Leaders Say

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

June 11, 2009 - The U.S. military is studying how to improve smaller-unit capabilities to better confront enemies who practice irregular or conventional warfare, or both, a senior U.S. military officer said here today. The studies are part of U.S. Joint Forces Command's National Program for Small Unit Excellence initiative, Army Maj. Gen. Jason K. Kamiya, chief of the Norfolk, Va.,-based command's joint training directorate, and the commander of its Joint Warfighting Center, told reporters at a Pentagon roundtable meeting.

Senior U.S. military leaders believe that highly trained, smaller units would be better able to battle future foes that practice irregular warfare, Kamiya said, as well as enemies that wage hybrid warfare, a combination of irregular and conventional warfare.

An example of such squad-sized "super" units can be found in the special operations realm, Kamiya said, where the diverse and honed talents and capabilities of 11-member teams make them more powerful than some larger, conventional military units.

As part of imparting more flexibility to these envisioned smaller-sized units, Kamiya said, decision-making authority necessarily would be pushed down to the lower echelons of leadership.

Dispersed smaller, enhanced-capability units as envisioned also would be able to combine themselves to take on larger-sized conventional forces, he said.

"In a very seamless way, these small, super-empowered units can quickly aggregate if the threat against them becomes more of a conventional-type threat," Kamiya explained, "and can quickly disaggregate, again, when they're faced with a more hybrid [or] irregular threat."

The Army and Marine Corps already are moving toward fielding forces with full-spectrum capabilities, Kamiya pointed out.

"We believe that there's already a good foundation of adaptability to build upon; so, this [small-unit excellence program] is not in any way to infer that whatever the services are doing is not of value," Kamiya emphasized.

However, the small unit excellence program, he said, has "a very, very close affiliation" with U.S. Special Operations Command.

"And we are studying what they do [and] how they do it, to see what lessons we can derive that can be reasonably adapted to the conventional force," Kamiya said.

MILITARY CONTRACTS June 12, 2009

ARMY
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., was awarded on Jun. 8, 2009 a $60,434,958 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of four UH-60L aircraft uniquely configured of the Brazilian Air Force (FMS Case BR-B-UTZ). Work is to be performed in Stratford, Conn., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2012. One bid solicited with one bid received. Aviation & Missile Command Contracting Center, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH23-02-C-0006).

Taos Industries Inc., Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on Jun. 08, 2009 a $30,161,952 firm-fixed-price contract for a Foreign Military Sales requirement. This award will result in a firm-fixed-price contract for 33,400,938 rounds of various non standard ammunition for the republic of Iraq. Work is to be performed in Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated date of Oct. 29, 2010. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received. Rock Island Contracting Center, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-09-C-0026).

IAP Worldwide Services, Irmo, S.C., was awarded on Jun. 8, 2009 a $21,276,221 service, firm-fixed-price contract to provide electrical power distribution service to Forward Operating Base Leatherneck in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. The service is required to distribute power from a leased power plant in order to maintain the life support of the camp. Work is to be performed in Helmand Province, Afghanistan with an estimated completion date of Jun 07, 2010. Seven bids were solicited with four bids received. Kandahar Air Field Regional Contracting Center, Afghanistan is the contracting activity (W91B4L-09-C-0045).

Avon Protection Systems, Inc., Cadillac, Mi., was awarded on Jun. 9, 2009 a $20,710,568 cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price contract to procure 726,834 Chemical B canister for the Joint Service General Purpose Mask Program. Work is to be performed in Cadillac, Mich., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 31, 2010. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Research and Development Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-05-D-0011).

The Korte Co., Saint Louis, Mo., was awarded on Jun. 9, 2009 a $14,496,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of an Army Forces Reserve Center. Work is to be performed in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico with an estimated completion date of Apr. 3, 2011. Forty-six bids were solicited with 24 bids received. Corp of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0031).

Boeing Satellite Systems, Inc., El Segundo, Calif., was awarded on Jun. 10, 2009 a $13,790,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. The primary objective of the program is to carry our Phase 2 of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's Fast Access Spacecraft Testbed (FAST) program. The objective of the FAST program is the development and demonstration of a high power generation subsystem that, when combined with state-of-the-art electric propulsion systems, would form the technological basis for a light weight, high power, highly mobile spacecraft platform, generating as much as 50-80 kw for operational users, but at high specific power levels (130 W/kg or better). Work is to be performed in El Segundo, Calif., (69.53 percent), San Diego, Calif., (17.14 precent), Albuquerque, N.M., (5.59 precent), Carpentaria, Calif., (3.38 precent), Foothills, Calif., (2.77 precent), West Hills, Calif., (0.89 precent), and College Station, Texas, (0.25 precent) with an estimated completion date of Sept. 1, 2010. Two bids solicited with two bids received. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HR0011-08-C-0086).

Optimetrics, Inc., Ann Arbor, Mich., was awarded on Jun. 9, 2009 a $9,787,433 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the research and development services entitled "Applied Simulation and Analysis for CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear)". Work is to be performed in Ann Arbor, Mich., with an estimated completion date of Jun. 30, 2012. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Research and Development Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-09-C-0022).

DRS Defense Solutions, LLC., Bethesda, Md., was awarded on Jun. 9, 2009 a $5,000,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the proposal that was submitted in response to the Topographic Engineering Center (TEC) Broad Agency Announcement Topics, TEC-33 imagery exploitation and TEC-34 surveillance. The contractor shall demonstrate and deliver an airborne hyperspectral imaging system capable of detecting/locating improvised explosive devices. Work is to be performed in Merrimack N.H., with an estimated completion date of Jun. 09, 2010. Bids were solicited using the Broad Agency Announcement with one bid received. Engineer Research and Development Center, Contracting Office, Contracting Office, Major Systems Branch, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W9132V-09-C-0008).



NAVY
Armtec Countermeasures Co., Coachella, Calif., is being awarded a $46,540,500 five-year firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the manufacture of RR-196/AL NSN 5865-01-553-7532 and RR-196/AL (T-1) chaff cartridges, NSN 5865-01-553-1536. The cartridges are used on the attack fighter (F/A) aircraft (ACFT) to defeat or launched threats targeting radar signature and emissions. Work will be performed in Lillington, N.C., and work will be completed Dec. 15, 2014. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point in Mechanicsburg, Pa., is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Services, Inc., Greenville, S.C., is being awarded a $49,595,204 modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract (N00019-05-D-0013) for P-3C sustainment, modification and installation program to provide for special structural inspection kit installation. Work will be performed in Greenville, S.C., and is expected to be completed in Jul. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Services, Inc., Greenville, S.C., is being awarded a $20,985,539 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract (N00019-05-D-0013) for additional lower wing Zone 5 material structures replacement on five P-3C aircraft. Work will be performed in Greenville, S.C., and is expected to be completed in Mar. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Bell-Boeing Joint Project Office, Amarillo, Texas, is being awarded a $10,883,701 cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery requirements contract (N00019-09-D-0008) to provide joint performance based logistics Phase 1.5 integrated logistics support to improve component reliability of the Marine Corps (MV-22) and Air Force (CV-22) tilt rotor aircraft during the production and deployment phase of the V-22 program. Work will be performed in Ft. Worth, Texas, (72 percent) and Philadelphia, Pa., (28 percent) and is expected to be completed in May 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy, ($9,883,701; 91 percent) and the U.S. Air Force, ($1,000,000; 9 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Northrop Grumman Information Technology, McLean, Va., was awarded a $6,312,945 hybrid firm-fixed-price/cost/cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order (NS09) under a previously awarded contract (FA8771-04-D-0004) on Jun. 9, 2009, for delivery and installation of tactical switching increment II spiral B1 equipment, including program management; configuration management; logistics; hardware and software updates; configuration management support; testing support; and on-site technical support. NGIT will enhance the enterprise network management system capabilities located at the two Regional Network Operations and Security Centers (RNOSCs) to remotely monitor, manage and control more of the systems and networks within the areas of responsibility of each RNOSC. This contract includes no options. Work will be performed in various locations, including San Diego, Calif., (10 percent); Portsmouth, Va., (10 percent); Wahiawa, Hawaii, (25 percent); Naples, Italy, (10 percent); Bahrain, (10 percent) and Norfolk, Va., (35 percent), and is expected to be completed by Mar. 15, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This delivery order has an exception to the fair opportunity process pursuant to 10 U.S.C. § 2304c (b)(3), as implemented by FAR 16.505(b)(2)(iii) and DFARS PGI 216.505-70(2). The Space and Nav! al Warfa re Systems Command, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command awarded this delivery order on behalf of its organizational partner, the Navy's Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence.

AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to the following contractors: McDonnell Douglas Corp., of Saint Louis, Miss., Lockheed Martin-Systems Integration of Owego, N.Y., and Northrop Grumman Technical Services, Inc., of Herndon, Va. This contract provides a multiple-award indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract vehicle to sustain and modernize all A-10 weapon system configuration. At this time, $1,718,529 has been obligated. 538 ACSG/PK, Hill Air Force Base, Utah is the contracting activity (FA8202-09-D-0001, FA8202-09-D-0001, FA8202-09-D-0003).

The Air Force is awarding a firm fixed price contract to the following contractors: Lockheed Martin Corp., of Moorestown, N.J., Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., of Linthicum, Miss., and Raytheon Co., of Sudbury, Mass., for $30,000,000 each of three awards. This contract action will provide for Space Fence Phase A system design review, plans trades analysis and data, systems engineering planning; architecture planning; prototyping, modeling and simulation systems trades and analyses; risk management life cycle cost estimate and technical data. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 784 CBSG/PK, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity (FA8213-09-C-0051).

The Air Force is modifying a firm fixed price contract with Lockheed Martin Corp., of Orlando, Fla., for $14,811,316. This action will provide C-130J aircrew training system program contractor logistics support for various training devices including database generation, engineering support, courseware development and instruction. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. 558 ACSG/PK, Hill Air Force Base, Utah is the contracting activity (F42630-99-C-0095, P00252).

The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee contract to Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., of Herndon, Va., for $14,384,117. This contract action will provide maritime security analysis and capability assessments to the Chief of Naval Operations Plans, Policy, and Operations. At this time, $652,174 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-03-D-1380).

The Air Force is awarding a firm fixed price contract to Goldbelt Falcon, LLC of Newport News, Va. This action will provide 25 transportable field calibration units Series II, Data 25, with five year extended warranties. At this time, $8,320,000 has been obligated. 526 CSG, Heath, Ohio is the contracting activity (FY2333-09-D-0001).

The Air Force is awarding a cost plus award fee contract to Raytheon Co., of Marlborough, Mass. This action will provide the Minuteman MEECN program terminal upgrade and ECP by the Raytheon Co., will be procured which will result in the contractor obtaining a NSA Type 1 certification in software upgrades including design documentation to show UIC security compliance and related boundary activities. At this time, $2,000,000 has been obligated. 653 SNNG/PK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8726-08-C-0004, P00012).

Law Gives Military Renters More Protection Against Foreclosures

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
Special to American Forces Press Service

June 11, 2009 - President Barack Obama's latest efforts to look after home renters gives military members additional protection if the homes they rent are foreclosed, a Defense Department official said today. The president's Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act of 2009 was signed into law on May 20. The legislation ensures that renters aren't forced out of their homes if foreclosure occurs and a new landlord takes over.

Renters in every state now have more time to find new homes. The new law greatly benefits the military, as the vast majority of active duty servicemembers rent homes throughout the United States, said Army Col. Shawn Shumake, director of legal policy in the Pentagon's personnel and readiness office.

While about 65 percent of the U.S. population own their homes, only about 25 percent of servicemembers are homeowners, so, foreclosure of rented homes potentially can affect most of the military, Shumake said.

"We've got a lot of folks out there that find that they are in really difficult positions, because their landlords are foreclosed on," he explained in a Pentagon Channel interview. "This law provides them a measure of security and protection they didn't previously have."

The legislation gives renters the right to stay in their homes throughout the duration of their lease, he said, unless the new owner is moving into the home or if the renter is renting under a month-to-month lease. Still, the new law gives renters at least 90 days before they can be evicted, he noted.

"This act is a protection that's really powerful and important, and a great help to our servicemembers," the colonel said. "This provides renters some particular [and] some important rights so they're not kicked out on the street with no notice."

Before the law went into effect, only individual state protection was available, or none at all, Shumake said. There was no consistency from state to state in the rights people had to fight immediate eviction after foreclosure.

The inconsistency may have been difficult on military members, many of whom are transferred from one state to another every two to three years. The federal law now provides a baseline of protection for all renters, no matter where they live in the United States, he said.

"There was no uniformity or anything you could count on," Shumake said. "[The law] now makes things the same across the country, and it at least gives you some basics that you know are there. At the very least, you know you're going to get that 90 days of protection."

The act is one of several laws that ensure military members are taken care of as they move from state to state to new duty stations, Shumake said. He noted the Joint Federal Travel Regulation, which defines financial benefits awarded to servicemembers upon changing duty stations.

The regulation was amended in July because of the rising foreclosure rates to allow the federal government to financially support local moves by military members. So, if one of the two exceptions occurs and servicemembers are forced to move from their home, the government may pay for the move, he said.

The regulation and Obama's new legislation go "hand in glove," Shumake said.

Military members faced with such uncertainty are in the best possible position with the two protections, he said.

For more information, servicemembers should contact their local legal office.

North Korean Rhetoric Bears Watching, Gates Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

June 11, 2009 - Because it comes from what he called "an unpredictable regime," bellicose rhetoric from North Korea needs to be watched closely, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said today. North Korean officials have said that all agreements – including the armistice that halted the Korean War in 1953 – are null and void, and have threatened acts of war if the United Nations goes forward with sanctions.

North Korea reportedly tested an atomic weapon last month and has launched a number of missiles. The country has withdrawn from the Six-Party Talks with China, Russia, Japan, South Korea and the United States.

"It's a very unpredictable regime, so it is probably not wise just to dismiss out-of-hand the rhetoric," Gates said. "I think we will just have to see. I think everyone is watching very closely."

But Gates also said intelligence does not indicate warlike changes in the North Korean military dispositions. "I don't think that there has been a commensurate change in the posture of the North Korean military that would suggest an intent to undertake operations," he said.

Intelligence information indicates that North Korea is not mobilizing troops or moving troops and equipment, the secretary said. "[North Korean] military operations are pretty routine at this point, so that's a source of some comfort," he said, "but again, they are so unpredictable you can't completely discount them."

Officials repeatedly have said that the preferred solution in North Korea is diplomacy, and that U.S. officials will work with allies to bring the North Koreans back to the negotiating table.

Gates is here to attend a conference of NATO defense ministers

Senate Confirms McChrystal, Stavridis, Fraser Nominations

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

June 11, 2009 - The Senate confirmed Army Lt. Gen. Stanley McChrystal yesterday to receive his fourth star and serve as commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan and the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force. The Senate also confirmed Navy Adm. James Stavridis as commander of U.S. European Command and supreme allied commander for Europe, NATO's top military post. Air Force Lt. Gen. Douglas M. Fraser was confirmed for promotion to general and to take the post Stavridis will vacate as commander of U.S. Southern Command.

All three nominations were confirmed unanimously.

McChrystal will succeed Army Gen. David D. McKiernan as top commander in Afghanistan. Stavridis will replace the retiring Army Gen. Bantz J. Craddock as the senior NATO and U.S. European Command officer.

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced at a May 11 news conference that he'd recommended President Barack Obama nominate McChrystal to the Afghanistan post. "I believe that our mission [in Afghanistan] requires new thinking and new approaches from our military leaders," Gates told reporters. "Today, we have a new policy set by our new president. We have a new strategy, a new mission and a new ambassador. I believe that new military leadership is needed."

Gates also announced his recommendation of Army Lt. Gen. David Rodriguez, his senior military advisor, for a new position under McChrystal. En route to Brussels, Belgium, for a NATO defense ministers conference, Gates said today that Rodriguez first will serve as deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan while a new NATO command structure is put in place there. Once the new headquarters is formed, Gates said, Rodriguez would serve under McChrystal in a strictly NATO capacity as day-to-day commander of the tactical effort in Afghanistan.

Speaking at his confirmation hearing June 2, McChrystal outlined the challenges in Afghanistan.

"Afghans face a combination of challenges – a resilient Taliban insurgency, increasing levels of violence, [a] lack of governance capability, persistent corruption, lack of development in key areas, illicit narcotics and malign influences from other countries," he said. "There is no simple answer. We must conduct a holistic counterinsurgency campaign, and we must do it well."

McChrystal will assume command as more than 21,000 additional U.S. military personnel are slated to finish deploying to Afghanistan by October.

Before serving as director of the Joint Staff, McChrystal was the commander of Joint Special Operations command. He's spent the majority of his military career commanding special operations and airborne infantry units.

Gates Urges Orderly Reduction in NATO's Kosovo Force

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

June 11, 2009 - With NATO defense ministers having agreed to reduce the alliance's military presence in Kosovo from 14,000 to 10,000 troops by the year's end, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today urged that the reduction take place as an organized process. On the first day of an alliance defense ministers conference here, NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer announced the force reduction today, noting that Army Gen. Bantz J. Craddock, NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe, has proposed moving toward a deterrent presence in Kosovo that will require fewer troops in the country.

Gates said that any NATO drawdown in the country should be accomplished in an organized and coherent alliance process, and not by countries leaving unilaterally.

"The irony is [that] two years ago, everybody was worried about us pulling out, and I came to these meetings and said our policy will be, 'In together, out together,'" the secretary said in an interview with reporters traveling with him. "Now I'm in the position of worrying that some of them will leave prematurely. So the same phrase still applies: In together, out together."

Unilateral withdrawal leaves other nations exposed if there is too little time to plan, Gates said. "Just unilaterally just pulling up stakes is not the way you behave as a part of an alliance," he said.

De Hoop Scheffer said 14,000 NATO troops currently are in Kosovo, a number that is due to drop to 10,000 by Jan. 1. The United States has 1,483 troops – mostly National Guardsmen – deployed to Kosovo. The headquarters for the U.S. effort in the nation is at Camp Bondsteel. In addition, 33 NATO and non-NATO allies have troops in the country.

De Hoop Scheffer said NATO will remain in Kosovo and is committed to a safe and secure country. "We will remain for the security of the majority and minority alike," he said during a NATO news conference.

The decision is a reflection of how far Kosovo and the region have come, he noted. While much work remains, "the region and international players are on the right track," the secretary general said.

NATO's North Atlantic Council must approve the proposal. There are further plans to draw the numbers down to 6,500 and then to 2,500, but this will happen only if conditions warrant it and only after the North Atlantic Council approves, NATO officials said.

The mission in Kosovo began in 1999 after Serbian troops began a campaign of ethnic cleansing against the ethnic Albanians in the country. NATO has led the security force – dubbed K-FOR – under a United Nations mandate.

Rewards for Terror

Fox reports this morning that four terrorists have been relocated to Bermuda.

Easy enough formula, wage war against the US, get relocated to an island Paradise.

For more about Will, visit http://www.gulfwarone.com/. His novel, 'A Line Through the Desert' can be purchased here.