Editor's Note: Beck is a former US Army Servicemember.
On July 22, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with William Beck, USA, the Author of H.A.A.R.P.'s Fury, RED 7 and Caribbean Agenda.
Program Date: July 22, 2010
Program Time: 1700 hours Pacific
Topic: Author William Beck
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/23/author-william-beck
About the Guest
William Beck, USA “was born in Jefferson, Ohio near the shores of Lake Erie. After completing college he volunteered for service in the U.S. Army during the later years of the Vietnam War. William Beck’s “is a PADI certified scuba diver and underwater photographer. Beck is also an accomplished practitioner of the martial arts in Go Ju style karate and holds the rank of Sho Dan. Pistol marksman is another talent Beck possess and enjoys occupying his time with. Beck’s father was a master baker, and Beck acquired much of his culinary skills observing his parents practicing their talents as he was growing up. The latest aspiration for William Beck is studying to be a pilot. It has been a desire of his for many years and he looks forward to receiving his ‘wings.’ Beck enjoys spending his time between Florida and New England with family and friends when he is not in the Nashville, Tennessee area writing.” William Beck is the author of H.A.A.R.P.'s Fury, RED 7 and Caribbean Agenda.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/23/author-william-beck
Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/william_beck.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Navy Medical Research Team Joins Partnership to Combat Malaria
By Doris Ryan, Naval Medical Research Center Public Affairs
LIMA, Peru (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval Medical Research Center Detachment (NMRCD) Peru has joined a consortium of institutions from Peru, Brazil and the United States to help eliminate malaria from the Amazon region.
The contributions of NMRCD to determine the incidence of vivax malaria in the study sites in Peru and Brazil will be a key complement to Navy medicine research and development efforts to develop and test vaccines in the future, said Capt. Richard L. Haberberger Jr., the commanding officer of the Naval Medical Research Center.
"This will be an important step forward for malaria research and will eventually contribute to the overall health of deployed sailors and Marines," said Haberberger. "This is why it is vital we maintain forward-deployed labs like NMRCD where there is a focus on force health protection, research and development, and public health diplomacy."
This center is supported by a seven-year, $9.2 million grant from the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). The principal investigator is Dr. Joseph Vinetz from the University of California at San Diego. The award for the Amazon Region Center of Excellence in Malaria Research was one of 10 grants announced July 8 by the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the NIH.
A key component of this initiative will be to increase the research and public health capacity in the participating countries, providing training for students and researchers and engaging eminent scientists and physicians from Peru, Brazil and the United States.
NMRCD's parasitology and entomology programs will have integral roles in field and laboratory activities leading to the determination of malaria incidence rates, parasite genotyping, monitoring drug resistance and the determination of which mosquitoes are transmitting malaria in this area. The detachment will manage the Madre de Dios, Peru site, and will collaborate on activities in Iquitos, Peru, two of the three study locations of the center.
"NMRCD will also be responsible for the data management component of the program and capacity building efforts, standardizing and enhancing data processing and analysis, as well as assisting host-country partners to improve their ability to conduct malaria research as part of the center and utilize research findings for policy and program development," said Lt. Paul Graf, head of the parasitology department.
Dr. Andres G. Lescano, the deputy head of the parasitology department and director of public health training at NMRCD, will lead the data management core and training program. Along with Graf; Lt. Kirk Mundal, head of the entomology department, will be in charge of human and vector interaction studies in Madre de Dios and will also support activities in the other sites.
"This award and the partnership with world-class research centers in South America and the United States confirm the caliber of the work conducted in U.S. overseas research centers such as NMRCD. This center will develop a new generation of malaria researchers and will create important opportunities for the advancement of Navy Medicine research," said Cmdr. John W. Sanders, the officer-in-charge of NMRCD.
Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by a single-celled protozoan, transmitted to humans through the bite of the Anopheles mosquito, which serves as the vector for the parasite, incubating it and carrying it from human to human. Malaria represents a major threat to international travelers and historically has been a serious health risk for deployed U.S. military forces.
In fact, more work days were lost among U.S. military personnel due to malaria than to bullets during every military campaign fought in malaria-endemic regions during the 20th century. Currently, malaria is present in operationally important countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan and Korea, said Sanders.
LIMA, Peru (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval Medical Research Center Detachment (NMRCD) Peru has joined a consortium of institutions from Peru, Brazil and the United States to help eliminate malaria from the Amazon region.
The contributions of NMRCD to determine the incidence of vivax malaria in the study sites in Peru and Brazil will be a key complement to Navy medicine research and development efforts to develop and test vaccines in the future, said Capt. Richard L. Haberberger Jr., the commanding officer of the Naval Medical Research Center.
"This will be an important step forward for malaria research and will eventually contribute to the overall health of deployed sailors and Marines," said Haberberger. "This is why it is vital we maintain forward-deployed labs like NMRCD where there is a focus on force health protection, research and development, and public health diplomacy."
This center is supported by a seven-year, $9.2 million grant from the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). The principal investigator is Dr. Joseph Vinetz from the University of California at San Diego. The award for the Amazon Region Center of Excellence in Malaria Research was one of 10 grants announced July 8 by the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the NIH.
A key component of this initiative will be to increase the research and public health capacity in the participating countries, providing training for students and researchers and engaging eminent scientists and physicians from Peru, Brazil and the United States.
NMRCD's parasitology and entomology programs will have integral roles in field and laboratory activities leading to the determination of malaria incidence rates, parasite genotyping, monitoring drug resistance and the determination of which mosquitoes are transmitting malaria in this area. The detachment will manage the Madre de Dios, Peru site, and will collaborate on activities in Iquitos, Peru, two of the three study locations of the center.
"NMRCD will also be responsible for the data management component of the program and capacity building efforts, standardizing and enhancing data processing and analysis, as well as assisting host-country partners to improve their ability to conduct malaria research as part of the center and utilize research findings for policy and program development," said Lt. Paul Graf, head of the parasitology department.
Dr. Andres G. Lescano, the deputy head of the parasitology department and director of public health training at NMRCD, will lead the data management core and training program. Along with Graf; Lt. Kirk Mundal, head of the entomology department, will be in charge of human and vector interaction studies in Madre de Dios and will also support activities in the other sites.
"This award and the partnership with world-class research centers in South America and the United States confirm the caliber of the work conducted in U.S. overseas research centers such as NMRCD. This center will develop a new generation of malaria researchers and will create important opportunities for the advancement of Navy Medicine research," said Cmdr. John W. Sanders, the officer-in-charge of NMRCD.
Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by a single-celled protozoan, transmitted to humans through the bite of the Anopheles mosquito, which serves as the vector for the parasite, incubating it and carrying it from human to human. Malaria represents a major threat to international travelers and historically has been a serious health risk for deployed U.S. military forces.
In fact, more work days were lost among U.S. military personnel due to malaria than to bullets during every military campaign fought in malaria-endemic regions during the 20th century. Currently, malaria is present in operationally important countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan and Korea, said Sanders.
NAVFAC Pacific Holds Change of Command Ceremony
By Don Rochon, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Pacific held a change of command ceremony July 9 at the command's headquarters in Pearl Harbor.
Rear Adm. Kate Gregory relieved Rear Adm. Michael Giorgione as commander of NAVFAC Pacific.
Gregory was promoted to rear admiral June 1, becoming the first female Civil Engineer Corps (CEC) officer in the history of the Navy to attain the rank.
"Surely the Pacific theater is our Navy and nation's most important theater, and I appreciate the challenges we all face as we carry out our mission, and as we take care of our fleet, our families and our shore establishments," said Gregory, in her remarks to more than 200 command employees and guests. "We have a lot to do, and I'm ready to get started."
A St. Louis native, Gregory was commissioned as a CEC officer after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1982. She arrives in Hawaii from Little Creek, Va., where she served as the chief of staff for the 1st Naval Construction Division. She is no stranger to Hawaii, as she previously served as executive officer during the transformation of Public Works Center Pearl Harbor to NAVFAC Hawaii.
Gregory's Seabee tours include assignments as company commander and detachment officer-in-charge, deploying to Honduras with Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, as the Seabee action officer at NAVFAC headquarters in Washington, D.C., and as the executive officer of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1.
Gregory's first command tour was as commanding officer of NMCB 133, with deployments to the European and Western Pacific theaters. She subsequently served as commander, 30th Naval Construction Regiment, during which she deployed to the Al Anbar Province, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Gregory holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy, the University of Southern California and George Washington University; has completed the Senior Executive Program at the London School of Business; is a registered professional engineer in the Virginia; and is a qualified military parachutist and Seabee combat warfare officer. Her personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
Gregory assumed command of approximately 4,000 military and civilian men and women who work for NAVFAC Pacific and its three NAVFAC commands in Hawaii, Guam and Japan.
Giorgione will retire from the Navy July 16 in a ceremony at Annapolis, Md., the place where he was commissioned a naval officer 29 years ago.
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Pacific held a change of command ceremony July 9 at the command's headquarters in Pearl Harbor.
Rear Adm. Kate Gregory relieved Rear Adm. Michael Giorgione as commander of NAVFAC Pacific.
Gregory was promoted to rear admiral June 1, becoming the first female Civil Engineer Corps (CEC) officer in the history of the Navy to attain the rank.
"Surely the Pacific theater is our Navy and nation's most important theater, and I appreciate the challenges we all face as we carry out our mission, and as we take care of our fleet, our families and our shore establishments," said Gregory, in her remarks to more than 200 command employees and guests. "We have a lot to do, and I'm ready to get started."
A St. Louis native, Gregory was commissioned as a CEC officer after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1982. She arrives in Hawaii from Little Creek, Va., where she served as the chief of staff for the 1st Naval Construction Division. She is no stranger to Hawaii, as she previously served as executive officer during the transformation of Public Works Center Pearl Harbor to NAVFAC Hawaii.
Gregory's Seabee tours include assignments as company commander and detachment officer-in-charge, deploying to Honduras with Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, as the Seabee action officer at NAVFAC headquarters in Washington, D.C., and as the executive officer of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1.
Gregory's first command tour was as commanding officer of NMCB 133, with deployments to the European and Western Pacific theaters. She subsequently served as commander, 30th Naval Construction Regiment, during which she deployed to the Al Anbar Province, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Gregory holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy, the University of Southern California and George Washington University; has completed the Senior Executive Program at the London School of Business; is a registered professional engineer in the Virginia; and is a qualified military parachutist and Seabee combat warfare officer. Her personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
Gregory assumed command of approximately 4,000 military and civilian men and women who work for NAVFAC Pacific and its three NAVFAC commands in Hawaii, Guam and Japan.
Giorgione will retire from the Navy July 16 in a ceremony at Annapolis, Md., the place where he was commissioned a naval officer 29 years ago.
UBERCouple
Editor's Note: The Guest is former USN.
On July 15, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with James Howard, USN, the author of UBERCouple.
Program Date: July 15, 2010
Program Time: 1700 hours Pacific
Topic: UBERCouple
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/16/ubercouple
About the Guest
James Howard served in the United States Navy in the early 1960s. In addition to having been a sales professional for 30 years, he has been a draftsman, job developer and now and now an author of the booklet UBERCouple. James Howard said of UBERCouple, “Twenty years ago my new wife and I started fighting a bit too much. So to help smooth the relationship, I read a couple of excellent books on how to make your marriage happier and put what I read to work. It is now twenty plus years later, and my wife and I have an uber sort of life. I've never been happier. It was time to share. I've condensed the things that worked best into a booklet of seven brief, easy little things to creating a loving environment.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/16/ubercouple
Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/ubercouple.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
On July 15, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with James Howard, USN, the author of UBERCouple.
Program Date: July 15, 2010
Program Time: 1700 hours Pacific
Topic: UBERCouple
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/16/ubercouple
About the Guest
James Howard served in the United States Navy in the early 1960s. In addition to having been a sales professional for 30 years, he has been a draftsman, job developer and now and now an author of the booklet UBERCouple. James Howard said of UBERCouple, “Twenty years ago my new wife and I started fighting a bit too much. So to help smooth the relationship, I read a couple of excellent books on how to make your marriage happier and put what I read to work. It is now twenty plus years later, and my wife and I have an uber sort of life. I've never been happier. It was time to share. I've condensed the things that worked best into a booklet of seven brief, easy little things to creating a loving environment.”
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2010/07/16/ubercouple
Archive:
http://www.americanheroesradio.com/ubercouple.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Veterans With Post-traumatic Stress Deserve Best Care
American Forces Press Service
The Veterans Affairs Department will begin making it easier for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder to obtain the benefits and treatment they need starting next week, President Barack Obama said today in his weekly message, calling veteran care the nation's "solemn responsibility."
The full text of the message follows:
Last weekend, on the Fourth of July, Michelle and I welcomed some of our extraordinary military men and women and their families to the White House.
They were just like the thousands of active duty personnel and veterans I've met across this country and around the globe. Proud. Strong. Determined. Men and women with the courage to answer their country's call, and the character to serve the United States of America.
Because of that service; because of the honor and heroism of our troops around the world; our people are safer, our nation is more secure, and we are poised to end our combat mission in Iraq by the end of August, completing a drawdown of more than 90,000 troops since last January.
Still, we are a nation at war. For the better part of a decade, our men and women in uniform have endured tour after tour in distant and dangerous places. Many have risked their lives. Many have given their lives. And as a grateful nation, humbled by their service, we can never honor these American heroes or their families enough.
Just as we have a solemn responsibility to train and equip our troops before we send them into harm's way, we have a solemn responsibility to provide our veterans and wounded warriors with the care and benefits they've earned when they come home.
That is our sacred trust with all who serve – and it doesn't end when their tour of duty does.
To keep that trust, we're building a 21st century VA, increasing its budget, and ensuring the steady stream of funding it needs to support medical care for our veterans.
To help our veterans and their families pursue a college education, we're funding and implementing the post-9/11 GI Bill.
To deliver better care in more places, we're expanding and increasing VA health care, building new wounded warrior facilities, and adapting care to better meet the needs of female veterans.
To stand with those who sacrifice, we've dedicated new support for wounded warriors and the caregivers who put their lives on hold for a loved one's long recovery.
And to do right by our vets, we're working to prevent and end veteran homelessness – because in the United States of America, no one who served in our uniform should sleep on our streets.
We also know that for many of today's troops and their families, the war doesn't end when they come home.
Too many suffer from the signature injuries of today's wars: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury. And too few receive the screening and treatment they need.
Now, in past wars, this wasn't something America always talked about. And as a result, our troops and their families often felt stigmatized or embarrassed when it came to seeking help.
Today, we've made it clear up and down the chain of command that folks should seek help if they need it. In fact, we've expanded mental health counseling and services for our vets.
But for years, many veterans with PTSD who have tried to seek benefits – veterans of today's wars and earlier wars – have often found themselves stymied. They've been required to produce evidence proving that a specific event caused their PTSD. And that practice has kept the vast majority of those with PTSD who served in non-combat roles, but who still waged war, from getting the care they need.
Well, I don't think our troops on the battlefield should have to take notes to keep for a claims application. And I've met enough veterans to know that you don't have to engage in a firefight to endure the trauma of war.
So we're changing the way things are done.
On Monday, the Department of Veterans Affairs, led by Secretary Eric Shinseki, will begin making it easier for a veteran with PTSD to get the benefits he or she needs.
This is a long-overdue step that will help veterans not just of the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars, but generations of their brave predecessors who proudly served and sacrificed in all our wars.
It's a step that proves America will always be here for our veterans, just as they've been there for us. We won't let them down. We take care of our own. And as long as I'm Commander-in-Chief, that's what we're going to keep doing. Thank you.
The Veterans Affairs Department will begin making it easier for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder to obtain the benefits and treatment they need starting next week, President Barack Obama said today in his weekly message, calling veteran care the nation's "solemn responsibility."
The full text of the message follows:
Last weekend, on the Fourth of July, Michelle and I welcomed some of our extraordinary military men and women and their families to the White House.
They were just like the thousands of active duty personnel and veterans I've met across this country and around the globe. Proud. Strong. Determined. Men and women with the courage to answer their country's call, and the character to serve the United States of America.
Because of that service; because of the honor and heroism of our troops around the world; our people are safer, our nation is more secure, and we are poised to end our combat mission in Iraq by the end of August, completing a drawdown of more than 90,000 troops since last January.
Still, we are a nation at war. For the better part of a decade, our men and women in uniform have endured tour after tour in distant and dangerous places. Many have risked their lives. Many have given their lives. And as a grateful nation, humbled by their service, we can never honor these American heroes or their families enough.
Just as we have a solemn responsibility to train and equip our troops before we send them into harm's way, we have a solemn responsibility to provide our veterans and wounded warriors with the care and benefits they've earned when they come home.
That is our sacred trust with all who serve – and it doesn't end when their tour of duty does.
To keep that trust, we're building a 21st century VA, increasing its budget, and ensuring the steady stream of funding it needs to support medical care for our veterans.
To help our veterans and their families pursue a college education, we're funding and implementing the post-9/11 GI Bill.
To deliver better care in more places, we're expanding and increasing VA health care, building new wounded warrior facilities, and adapting care to better meet the needs of female veterans.
To stand with those who sacrifice, we've dedicated new support for wounded warriors and the caregivers who put their lives on hold for a loved one's long recovery.
And to do right by our vets, we're working to prevent and end veteran homelessness – because in the United States of America, no one who served in our uniform should sleep on our streets.
We also know that for many of today's troops and their families, the war doesn't end when they come home.
Too many suffer from the signature injuries of today's wars: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury. And too few receive the screening and treatment they need.
Now, in past wars, this wasn't something America always talked about. And as a result, our troops and their families often felt stigmatized or embarrassed when it came to seeking help.
Today, we've made it clear up and down the chain of command that folks should seek help if they need it. In fact, we've expanded mental health counseling and services for our vets.
But for years, many veterans with PTSD who have tried to seek benefits – veterans of today's wars and earlier wars – have often found themselves stymied. They've been required to produce evidence proving that a specific event caused their PTSD. And that practice has kept the vast majority of those with PTSD who served in non-combat roles, but who still waged war, from getting the care they need.
Well, I don't think our troops on the battlefield should have to take notes to keep for a claims application. And I've met enough veterans to know that you don't have to engage in a firefight to endure the trauma of war.
So we're changing the way things are done.
On Monday, the Department of Veterans Affairs, led by Secretary Eric Shinseki, will begin making it easier for a veteran with PTSD to get the benefits he or she needs.
This is a long-overdue step that will help veterans not just of the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars, but generations of their brave predecessors who proudly served and sacrificed in all our wars.
It's a step that proves America will always be here for our veterans, just as they've been there for us. We won't let them down. We take care of our own. And as long as I'm Commander-in-Chief, that's what we're going to keep doing. Thank you.
Friday, July 09, 2010
Air Guard Instructor Uses Marine Experience
National Guard Bureau
July 9, 2010 - Air Force Tech. Sgt. David Butler is a former Marine who's now serving here as an instructor with the Texas Air National Guard. "I absolutely love my job down here and the guys I work with," Butler said about serving with the 204th Security Forces Squadron, which operates the Desert Defender Air Force Regional Training Center.
Butler is putting the combat knowledge he gained through his Marine Corps service to use by preparing active duty, Air Guard, and Air Force Reserve Command security forces airmen for area security operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their training includes mounted operations on armored vehicles, dismounted patrols, counterinsurgency operations, and sniper and countersniper operations.
Butler provides his students with some Marine Corps-style confidence-building during their nearly 50 days of intense training.
"I tell them up front, 'I'm going to push you to your limits, as far as I can possibly push you,' and that's what we do," he said. "Coming out of here, they learn a valuable lesson, whether it's how much they can stand, or who can stand the heat and who needs to be trained a little bit more."
The Guard is well known for its soldiers and airmen who bring civilian expertise as well as prior service knowledge to a mission. Butler said the real-life experiences of all the Guard instructors help in developing scenarios that show students what they will encounter when they're deployed.
Butler joined the Air Guard after serving 12 years in the Marine Corps and two years with Air Force Reserve Command, which brought him to the Texas Guard on a temporary duty assignment.
"I had no intentions when I came to this unit of joining the Guard until I came down here," he said.
Since he joined, the schoolhouse has grown to become an Air Force-certified, regional facility with new buildings, classrooms and the latest military equipment.
"We put our heads together and based off of that and what the [Air Force] Security Forces Center requires us to teach, [we] roll that all into one training package," he said.
Butler works with 39 other instructors, including other Marine Corps and Army combat veterans, former police officers and other experienced Guardsmen.
"The drive, the desire to do good and teach these deploying defenders is in every single one of the cadre," said Air Force Lt. Col. Carl Alvarez, the squadron and training center commander. "We all give a 110 percent every day to these students."
Alverez said experience "outside the wire" in the combat theater is an important element the instructors bring to the table.
"The cadre has fired their weapons in theater," he said. "They have seen it, they have done it, and that is what we are best suited to [teach]."
'Salty Dawgs' Donate to NMC's Fisher House
By Deborah Kallgren, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Public Affairs
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Salty Dawgs motorcycle riding club rumbled into the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), Va., gate July 9 to donate more than $6,000 to the Portsmouth Fisher House.
The Dawgs are active duty and retired service members as well as veterans who have left the Navy under honorable conditions.
This is the fourth year the group has donated to the Portsmouth Fisher House.
Rear Adm. Alton Stocks, the NMCP commander and a motorcycle enthusiast, and Loretta Loveless, Fisher House manager, accepted the check.
The Fisher House in Portsmouth opened in June 1995 and was the first in Virginia. It has provided temporary lodging to approximately 2,450 families and guests while their loved ones were hospitalized.
The Fisher House is a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at the hospital. There are 45 Fisher Houses worldwide, all located within walking distance of a major military or Veterans Affairs medical center. The Fisher House at NMCP can accommodate seven families who are visiting their loved ones at the hospital. Guests stay for free at the Fisher House.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Salty Dawgs motorcycle riding club rumbled into the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), Va., gate July 9 to donate more than $6,000 to the Portsmouth Fisher House.
The Dawgs are active duty and retired service members as well as veterans who have left the Navy under honorable conditions.
This is the fourth year the group has donated to the Portsmouth Fisher House.
Rear Adm. Alton Stocks, the NMCP commander and a motorcycle enthusiast, and Loretta Loveless, Fisher House manager, accepted the check.
The Fisher House in Portsmouth opened in June 1995 and was the first in Virginia. It has provided temporary lodging to approximately 2,450 families and guests while their loved ones were hospitalized.
The Fisher House is a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at the hospital. There are 45 Fisher Houses worldwide, all located within walking distance of a major military or Veterans Affairs medical center. The Fisher House at NMCP can accommodate seven families who are visiting their loved ones at the hospital. Guests stay for free at the Fisher House.
Mullen Presses for More Family Support
By Heather Forsgren Weaver
American Forces Press Service
July 9, 2010 - Heather Forsgren Weaver, a colleague of mine at American Forces Press Service, is a regular contributor to Family Matters. Heather's been heavily involved in this blog from the start. She edits, helps write and posts content on a daily basis.
In this blog, Heather writes about a recent podcast by Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Deborah where they talked about increasing support for Guard and Reserve families.
With all of the stresses of military life, families need support systems and the nation's top military leader is working to make sure programs are available to eliminate the isolation that some National Guard and Reserve members and their families feel.
In a recent podcast, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Deborah, expressed support for Guard and Reserve families.
Throughout his career, Mullen and his family have not felt the isolation felt by many Guard and Reserve families because they had a support network.
"In that family support network, there is a common understanding about what it means to be deployed. What it means to make the kind of transitions that we are asking so many of these families to make," Mullen said. "When you get to the Guard and Reserve, they are isolated and they don't have that support network."
Installation-based programs are often not available to these families because they live too far away, Mrs. Mullen said, so it is important that Guard and Reserve families take advantage of web-based programs and resources. One program that Mrs. Mullen pitched was the Army Reserve's Fort Family.
Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz sets out Fort Family's vision on the website. "I want every military family living in small town America to have the same support as if they were living on the installation."
Sources like Fort Family are the "life ring" that military spouses and children can "grab onto" when the challenges of military life arise, Mullen said in his podcast.
A big issue for Guard and Reserve members and their families is reintegration when the servicemember returns from a deployment, both Mullens said.
"There is no opportunity for the families to readjust and for that servicemember to readjust," Mrs. Mullen said.
"Often there is a pressure to return to your previous life. Given the combat situations we face, the losses, the wounds, the stress, all of those things. I think we need to be measured about that reintegration. More deliberate," Mullen added.
American Forces Press Service
July 9, 2010 - Heather Forsgren Weaver, a colleague of mine at American Forces Press Service, is a regular contributor to Family Matters. Heather's been heavily involved in this blog from the start. She edits, helps write and posts content on a daily basis.
In this blog, Heather writes about a recent podcast by Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Deborah where they talked about increasing support for Guard and Reserve families.
With all of the stresses of military life, families need support systems and the nation's top military leader is working to make sure programs are available to eliminate the isolation that some National Guard and Reserve members and their families feel.
In a recent podcast, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Deborah, expressed support for Guard and Reserve families.
Throughout his career, Mullen and his family have not felt the isolation felt by many Guard and Reserve families because they had a support network.
"In that family support network, there is a common understanding about what it means to be deployed. What it means to make the kind of transitions that we are asking so many of these families to make," Mullen said. "When you get to the Guard and Reserve, they are isolated and they don't have that support network."
Installation-based programs are often not available to these families because they live too far away, Mrs. Mullen said, so it is important that Guard and Reserve families take advantage of web-based programs and resources. One program that Mrs. Mullen pitched was the Army Reserve's Fort Family.
Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz sets out Fort Family's vision on the website. "I want every military family living in small town America to have the same support as if they were living on the installation."
Sources like Fort Family are the "life ring" that military spouses and children can "grab onto" when the challenges of military life arise, Mullen said in his podcast.
A big issue for Guard and Reserve members and their families is reintegration when the servicemember returns from a deployment, both Mullens said.
"There is no opportunity for the families to readjust and for that servicemember to readjust," Mrs. Mullen said.
"Often there is a pressure to return to your previous life. Given the combat situations we face, the losses, the wounds, the stress, all of those things. I think we need to be measured about that reintegration. More deliberate," Mullen added.
Survey Will Permit Informed Decisions, Official Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 9, 2010 - Attitudes of the force to be gleaned from a survey on the possible repeal of the law that bans gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military will allow leaders to make informed decisions, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
Morrell said many stories that have resulted from advocacy groups leaking a 103-question survey e-mailed this week to 400,000 servicemembers "have been inflammatory in the worst case, and misleading in the best case."
Defense Department officials wanted the survey to remain confidential, Morrell said, but the distribution of the survey to 200,000 active duty servicemembers and 200,000 reserve-component personnel worked against that aim.
The survey was designed to be a confidential conversation between the a Defense Department working group studying the matter, in particular, and a large representative sample of the force, Morrell said.
"We thought it would be breaking faith with them for us to be proactively sharing the survey," he said, "because what we are trying to do is preserve the credibility and integrity of the answers that it elicits from the force."
Advocacy groups on both sides of the question released the survey, and Morrell said the outside influence is not helpful to the process.
The survey is designed to get the attitudes of the force on how to proceed if Congress repeals the so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law, and is not a referendum on whether or not the law should be repealed, Morrell said. The answers, he added, will inform the working group's deliberations.
Pentagon officials worked with a professional and reputable polling firm to produce the survey, Morrell noted. Roughly the first third of the 103 questions seeks demographic information. The second third asks about professional and military experience. The final third asks how the law's repeal might affect the individual being surveyed, he explained.
The working group led by Army Gen. Carter F. Ham, commander of U.S. Army Europe, and Jeh Johnson, the Defense Department's general counsel, already has spoken with 14,000 servicemembers, Morrell said. Another 33,000 servicemembers have interacted with the department electronically, he added.
Of the responses to date, Morrell said, many included concerns about privacy issues. "Clearly," he said, "a component of this scientific survey had to deal with privacy questions." Ten survey questions address privacy issues surrounding bathing facilities, living facilities and social settings.
"We think it would be irresponsible to conduct a survey that didn't address these questions," Morrell said, "because when 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is repealed, we will have to determine if there are any challenges in those particular areas, any adjustments that need to be made in terms of how we educate the force, or perhaps even facility adjustments that need to be made to deal with those scenarios.
"But we won't know any of that until we get a sense from the force of their attitudes," he continued. "It could turn out, based on this survey, that there are far fewer concerns than we are led to believe. There could more or different concerns than we had anticipated."
But Defense Department officials need the information generated from this survey to make smart decisions, Morrell said.
"We need people to participate in this survey to get a scientific understanding of the attitudes of the force, or the concerns, or issues or opportunities that may result from a repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell," he said.
American Forces Press Service
July 9, 2010 - Attitudes of the force to be gleaned from a survey on the possible repeal of the law that bans gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military will allow leaders to make informed decisions, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today.
Morrell said many stories that have resulted from advocacy groups leaking a 103-question survey e-mailed this week to 400,000 servicemembers "have been inflammatory in the worst case, and misleading in the best case."
Defense Department officials wanted the survey to remain confidential, Morrell said, but the distribution of the survey to 200,000 active duty servicemembers and 200,000 reserve-component personnel worked against that aim.
The survey was designed to be a confidential conversation between the a Defense Department working group studying the matter, in particular, and a large representative sample of the force, Morrell said.
"We thought it would be breaking faith with them for us to be proactively sharing the survey," he said, "because what we are trying to do is preserve the credibility and integrity of the answers that it elicits from the force."
Advocacy groups on both sides of the question released the survey, and Morrell said the outside influence is not helpful to the process.
The survey is designed to get the attitudes of the force on how to proceed if Congress repeals the so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law, and is not a referendum on whether or not the law should be repealed, Morrell said. The answers, he added, will inform the working group's deliberations.
Pentagon officials worked with a professional and reputable polling firm to produce the survey, Morrell noted. Roughly the first third of the 103 questions seeks demographic information. The second third asks about professional and military experience. The final third asks how the law's repeal might affect the individual being surveyed, he explained.
The working group led by Army Gen. Carter F. Ham, commander of U.S. Army Europe, and Jeh Johnson, the Defense Department's general counsel, already has spoken with 14,000 servicemembers, Morrell said. Another 33,000 servicemembers have interacted with the department electronically, he added.
Of the responses to date, Morrell said, many included concerns about privacy issues. "Clearly," he said, "a component of this scientific survey had to deal with privacy questions." Ten survey questions address privacy issues surrounding bathing facilities, living facilities and social settings.
"We think it would be irresponsible to conduct a survey that didn't address these questions," Morrell said, "because when 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is repealed, we will have to determine if there are any challenges in those particular areas, any adjustments that need to be made in terms of how we educate the force, or perhaps even facility adjustments that need to be made to deal with those scenarios.
"But we won't know any of that until we get a sense from the force of their attitudes," he continued. "It could turn out, based on this survey, that there are far fewer concerns than we are led to believe. There could more or different concerns than we had anticipated."
But Defense Department officials need the information generated from this survey to make smart decisions, Morrell said.
"We need people to participate in this survey to get a scientific understanding of the attitudes of the force, or the concerns, or issues or opportunities that may result from a repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell," he said.
New ejection seat added to T-38
502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs
7/9/2010 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- The T-38 Talon is receiving an upgrade that officials said will improve aircrews' safety and comfort.
Representatives from Martin-Baker Aircraft Co. Inc. are in the early stages of installing their new escape systems in all T-38Cs at Randolph AFB after completing the same project at Laughlin AFB, Texas, the first of five Air Education and Training Command installations scheduled for the upgrade.
One of the greatest advantages of the new seat, called the Mk US16T, is that it functions well in the situation that accounts for most ejections, said Rick French, an AETC T-38 program manager.
"The old ejection seat has the least capability in the flight regime where the most ejections occurred, the low-altitude, low-airspeed range, because it takes a few seconds for the parachute to open when you leave the aircraft," Mr. French said.
"The best part of the new seat is that it's a zero-zero seat," said Rey Gutierrez, a 12th Operations Support Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment instructor. "It will eject at zero altitude and zero airspeed, so the aircrew can bail out on the ground."
The new seat provides rapid deployment of the parachute following ejection, Mr. French said.
"When the seat clears the aircraft, explosives deploy the parachute," he said. "It's almost instantaneous."
A bonus for aircrew members is that they no longer have to carry their 45-pound parachutes to the aircraft, because each one is part of the ejection seat, enclosed in a container called the head box. Their only requirement is to wear a 5-pound harness that attaches to the ejection seat. The parachute itself, an aeroconical design, incorporates multiple safety features.
Another feature, the inter-seat sequencing system, which has a selector box with three options, decreases the possibility of aircrew collision during ejection and potential aircrew burn, because the rear seat will always eject first, no matter which crew member pulls the seat firing handle located on the front of the seat.
Another advantage of sequencing "is that the rear seat ejects up and to the right, and the front seat ejects up and to the left, so a collision is unlikely," Mr. Gutierrez said.
In addition, the seat decreases the potential of injury to aircrew members, especially at high airspeed, because its thigh and ankle restraints keep them more secure. It also expands the population who can fly the T-38 to anyone from 103 to 245 pounds, because the seat has two positions, including one that moves it one inch forward.
"Now the seat can better accommodate smaller pilots," Mr. French said. "The old seat accommodates 58 percent of female pilots; the new seat brings that percentage up to 87 percent."
The seat's other features include a survival kit with a radio, flares, a mirror, a first aid kit, water, a flashlight and other items as well as fittings that allow for a faster release of the parachute canopy, Mr. Gutierrez said.
The T-38 has been a part of the Air Force's fleet for nearly 50 years.
Airman rescues baby from fire
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
7/9/2010 - JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- While off-duty and visiting a friend at a nearby fire department July 2, an Airman from here responded to a call of a dwelling fire with people trapped inside.
With the dwelling fire located around the corner from the fire station, Senior Airman John Muirhead, of the 87th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department, stopped his vehicle when he noticed a woman hanging out of a third-floor window holding onto an infant.
"I saw them hanging out the window and knew I had to do something," Airman Muirhead said.
With heavy fire located in the front of the house, Airman Muirhead ran to the house and climbed to the second-story roof and directed the woman to drop the infant to him, from a height of approximately 20 feet.
Airman Muirhead caught the baby, and after checking the infant for signs of life and tapping the infant on the back to ensure the baby was breathing, passed the infant to a police officer.
The trapped woman then attempted to jump out of the third-floor window. Airman Muirhead tried to catch her, but lost his grip due to the force impact and almost fell from the roof himself. The woman landed on the ground below and attained a serious head wound.
After climbing down from the roof, Airman Muirhead rendered emergency first aid to the woman by removing his shirt to use as a pressure bandage until emergency medical professionals arrived.
The woman later died from the injury.
Local firefighters rescued an additional two children and one adult during the fire.
"I am very proud of (Airman Muirhead's) quick actions. He has developed into a true leader in the department," said Tom Nicometi, the deputy fire chief of the 87th CES fire department.
Flag Officer Assignment
Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead announced today the following assignments:
Capt. David J. Gale, who has been selected for promotion to rear admiral (lower half), will be assigned as commander, Regional Maintenance Center, Norfolk, Va. Gale is currently serving as deputy, SEA-21 for readiness, Surface Warfare (SEA 21A), Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.
Capt. David J. Gale, who has been selected for promotion to rear admiral (lower half), will be assigned as commander, Regional Maintenance Center, Norfolk, Va. Gale is currently serving as deputy, SEA-21 for readiness, Surface Warfare (SEA 21A), Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.
Air Force wounded warrior rides from coast to coast
By Maj. Belinda Petersen
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
July 9, 2010 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – A combat controller who last year was laying in a hospital fighting for his life is now riding his bicycle across America as part of his rehabilitation and to inspire other wounded warriors.
Along with 19 of his teammates, Staff Sgt. Marc Esposito from the 21st Special Tactics Squadron at Pope Air Force Base, N.C, is participating in the Sea to Shining Sea ride hosted by World T.E.A.M. Sports and sponsored by State Farm. It is their longest bike trek across America that started at the Golden Gate Bridge and will end at Virginia Beach, Va., July 24.
“The goal of the ride is to honor the courage of [servicemembers], recognize the strength of the American spirit and challenge perceptions of how we view athletes,” said Melissa McKinley, State Farm’s public relations specialist for the team.
But before Sergeant Esposito could even get back on his bike, he spent almost a year in hospitals where he underwent several surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.
“In May 2009, I was operating in Afghanistan as a combat controller in support of an Army special operations team,” Sergeant Esposito said. “We were going after the bad guys when we hit an IED – everyone in the vehicle was thrown out. I was in the rear of the vehicle, where the concentrated blast came from. I was instantly left unconscious and catapulted from the vehicle.
“When the special operations medical technician found me, he said I was on fire, had no heart beat and wasn’t breathing,” he said. “My legs and back were broken, and a lot of my teeth were smashed. I also suffered a traumatic brain injury.”
And now thanks to the tremendous care and support he received from the medical community and his squadron, Sergeant Esposito is riding his bicycle 4,000 miles through deserts, mountain passes, big cities and small towns.
“It is so inspirational to see Marc and his teammates helping each other all along the way,” Ms. McKinley said. “After conquering a hill, Marc will ride back down so he can ride along with someone who needs the encouragement to make it up the hill. That’s how Marc is; he always wants to help others.”
“I want to help others understand that there is life after an injury or illness,” Sergeant Esposito said. “When something traumatic happens, you feel like your life has been turned upside down. Everything is at a standstill. But you have to get back into life by doing what you love and loving what you do.”
That’s the message he and his teammates are inspiring in others as they ride across America, meeting people at water stops, restaurants, historical landmarks and military bases.
“They are changing people’s lives as they go through small towns,” Ms. McKinley said.
When the team reaches Washington, Sergeant Esposito wants to visit servicemembers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the same place where he spent several months enduring painful surgeries and not knowing what his future held.
Sergeant Esposito remembers how wonderful it was to have visitors when he was a patient at WRAMC.
“I want to give back by talking to the young troops and letting them know to never give up,” Sergeant Esposito said. “I want to inspire in them that they can do it as long as they put their minds to it.”
“And an inspiration he is,” said Senior Airman Brian Petras from Little Rock AFB, Ark., and who is also participating in the Sea to Shining Sea ride. “We met at the Center for the Intrepid while we were both going through rehabilitation, and we have inspired each other.”
“By doing the Sea to Shining Sea ride, we want to prove that we are still an asset to our great country, that we are still very capable and can continue to serve,” Airman Petras said.
Along with Sergeant Esposito and Airman Petras, other Air Force riders include Christopher Frost, Kevin Sullivan and Scott Bilyeu.
The team rides anywhere from 30 miles to 120 miles in one day, averaging 77 miles in a day. In two months, team members will only rest 11 days. They will enter Sergeant Esposito’s home state today.
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
July 9, 2010 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – A combat controller who last year was laying in a hospital fighting for his life is now riding his bicycle across America as part of his rehabilitation and to inspire other wounded warriors.
Along with 19 of his teammates, Staff Sgt. Marc Esposito from the 21st Special Tactics Squadron at Pope Air Force Base, N.C, is participating in the Sea to Shining Sea ride hosted by World T.E.A.M. Sports and sponsored by State Farm. It is their longest bike trek across America that started at the Golden Gate Bridge and will end at Virginia Beach, Va., July 24.
“The goal of the ride is to honor the courage of [servicemembers], recognize the strength of the American spirit and challenge perceptions of how we view athletes,” said Melissa McKinley, State Farm’s public relations specialist for the team.
But before Sergeant Esposito could even get back on his bike, he spent almost a year in hospitals where he underwent several surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.
“In May 2009, I was operating in Afghanistan as a combat controller in support of an Army special operations team,” Sergeant Esposito said. “We were going after the bad guys when we hit an IED – everyone in the vehicle was thrown out. I was in the rear of the vehicle, where the concentrated blast came from. I was instantly left unconscious and catapulted from the vehicle.
“When the special operations medical technician found me, he said I was on fire, had no heart beat and wasn’t breathing,” he said. “My legs and back were broken, and a lot of my teeth were smashed. I also suffered a traumatic brain injury.”
And now thanks to the tremendous care and support he received from the medical community and his squadron, Sergeant Esposito is riding his bicycle 4,000 miles through deserts, mountain passes, big cities and small towns.
“It is so inspirational to see Marc and his teammates helping each other all along the way,” Ms. McKinley said. “After conquering a hill, Marc will ride back down so he can ride along with someone who needs the encouragement to make it up the hill. That’s how Marc is; he always wants to help others.”
“I want to help others understand that there is life after an injury or illness,” Sergeant Esposito said. “When something traumatic happens, you feel like your life has been turned upside down. Everything is at a standstill. But you have to get back into life by doing what you love and loving what you do.”
That’s the message he and his teammates are inspiring in others as they ride across America, meeting people at water stops, restaurants, historical landmarks and military bases.
“They are changing people’s lives as they go through small towns,” Ms. McKinley said.
When the team reaches Washington, Sergeant Esposito wants to visit servicemembers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the same place where he spent several months enduring painful surgeries and not knowing what his future held.
Sergeant Esposito remembers how wonderful it was to have visitors when he was a patient at WRAMC.
“I want to give back by talking to the young troops and letting them know to never give up,” Sergeant Esposito said. “I want to inspire in them that they can do it as long as they put their minds to it.”
“And an inspiration he is,” said Senior Airman Brian Petras from Little Rock AFB, Ark., and who is also participating in the Sea to Shining Sea ride. “We met at the Center for the Intrepid while we were both going through rehabilitation, and we have inspired each other.”
“By doing the Sea to Shining Sea ride, we want to prove that we are still an asset to our great country, that we are still very capable and can continue to serve,” Airman Petras said.
Along with Sergeant Esposito and Airman Petras, other Air Force riders include Christopher Frost, Kevin Sullivan and Scott Bilyeu.
The team rides anywhere from 30 miles to 120 miles in one day, averaging 77 miles in a day. In two months, team members will only rest 11 days. They will enter Sergeant Esposito’s home state today.
MILITARY CONTRACTS July 9, 2010
ARMY
L-3 Communications Westwood Corp., Tulsa, Okla., was awarded on July 7 a $175,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This three-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract is for the ordering of 30 and 60 kilowatt tactical quiet generator (TQG) sets to ensure the government obtains a seamless supply of TQG sets to provide the necessary and critical power for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment and combat support systems. This modification is issued to increase the contract ceiling amount by $175,000,000 from $201,000,000 to $376,000,000. Work is to be performed in Tulsa, Okla., with an estimated completion date of March 1, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. CECOM Contracting Center-Washington, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-08-D-A002).
General Dynamics OTS Garland, LP, Garland, Texas, was awarded on July 2 a $58,346,730 firm-fixed-price contract for MK80 series bomb bodies. Work is to be performed in Garland, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. HQ, Army Contracting Command, CCRC-AR, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-05-D-0006).
Inglett & Stubbs International, Ltd., Smyrna, Ga., was awarded on July 7 a $53,942,310 firm-fixed-price contract. The contractor will provide electrical crews and material required for limited electrical inspection and repair of U.S. occupied camps, not supported by the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program, in diverse areas in Afghanistan. Contractor personnel will be expected to respond to emerging conditions throughout Afghanistan and correct immediate life, health and safety issues. Contractor will field 60 licensed electricians to perform tasks identified in the statement of work. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Philadelphia District, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (W912BU-10-C-0027).
Textron, Inc., New Orleans, La., was awarded on July 2 a $49,808,772 firm-fixed-price contract. This award exercises options for 52 armored security vehicles; 21 M1200 armored Knights; and 12 special tool sets with Textron Marine & Land Systems. Work is to be performed in New Orleans, La., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army TACOM, Warren, CCTA-ATB-D, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0532).
Propper International, Inc., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, was awarded on July 6 a $48,999,993 firm-fixed-price contract for Marine Corps three-season sleep system. Work is to be performed in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, with an estimated completion date of April 1, 2015. Bids were solicited via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site with four bids received. U.S. Army Research Development & Engineering Command, Natick Contracting Center, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0014).
James Construction Group, LLC, Baton Rouge, La., was awarded on July 6 a $38,478,691 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the construction of "Westbank and Vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System WBV-73 Western Tie-In Highway Crossing, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana." This work consists of, but is not limited to, the construction of: T-walls; a four-lane highway bridge; temporary detour road, excavation and backfill, drainage culverts, catch basins, and headwalls; temporary retaining structures, utility relocations, clearing and grubbing, seeding and mulching; fertilizing, and other incidental work. Work is to be performed in Saint Charles Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of July 10, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with nine bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, Hurricane Protection Office, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P9-10-C-0069).
GM GDLS Defense Group, LLC, Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on July 7 a $30,050,498 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract action directs production cut-in of the revised Stryker performance specifications, which incorporates a modified hull design into 281 vehicles. The double-V hull is an integrated solution that provides improved protection levels to support operations in the Operation Enduring Freedom area of responsibility. Work is to be performed in London, Canada (70 percent), and Sterling Heights, Mich. (30 percent), with an estimated completion date of Feb. 23, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. TACOM, CCRA-AIP, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-07-D-M112).
Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., was awarded on July 2 a $23,634,480 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the procurement of 792 months equal to 66 field service representatives for the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Work is to be performed in Oshkosh, Wis., with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. Five bids were solicited with five bids received. TACOM, CCTA-ADC-A, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-D-0111).
Marinex Construction, Inc., Charleston, S.C., was awarded on July 6 a $10,546,000 firm-fixed-price contract for "Maintenance Dredging, Morehead City Harbor, Ocean Bar, Carteret County, NC." Work is to be performed in Carteret County, N.C., with an estimated completion date of March 31, 2011. Twenty-five bids were solicited with five bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, Wilmington, N.C., is the contracting activity (W912HN-10-C-0037).
Alliant Ammunition and Powder Company, LLC, Radford, Va., was awarded on July 2 a $9,393,428 firm-fixed-price contract for ammunition: 194,155 M1/MP, National Stock Number (NSN) 000090042; and 1,376 M1/SP, NSN 000090041. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island Contracting Center, CCRC-AR, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-09-G-0002).
MPRI, a division of L-3 Services, Inc., Alexandria, Va., was awarded on July 6 a $7,300,000 time-and-material contract. This contract is an extension of support services for professional mentoring and training support services with reforming the Afghanistan Ministry of Defense and their subordinate organization, policies and procedures. Work is to be performed in Alexandria, Va. (99.9 percent), and Afghanistan (0.1 percent), with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Aberdeen Contracting Division, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-05-D-0014).
Rolls Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., was awarded on July 7 a $7,195,380 firm-fixed-price contract. This requirement is for 15 gas turbine engines, Model 250/C30R/3, to support the OH-58D Kiowa safety enhancement program. Work is to be performed in Indianapolis, Ind., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone, Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-D-0190).
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., was awarded on July 6 a $6,666,930 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is definitization of not-to-exceed price for the conversion of 9 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters into unique aircraft configuration for the Bahrain Defense Force, Foreign Military Sales Case BA-B-UIR. Contractor will also provide technical publication; integrated logistics support; field service representative; warranty; and ferry flight technical shipping support. Work is to be performed in Stratford, Conn., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command, AMSAM-AC-BH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-08-C-0003).
Atlantic Diving Supply, Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., was awarded on July 2 a $5,800,997 firm-fixed-price contract for 4,700 Special Forces load carriage systems in both areas of responsibility (AOR): AOR 1, desert/arid terrain regions; and AOR 2, temperature/tropical forested terrain regions. This delivery order is also for 900 special warfare combat craft load carriage systems in AORs 1 and 2. Work is to be performed in Virginia Beach, Va., with an estimated completion date of May 9, 2013. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, CCRD-NA-SY, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0011).
AIR FORCE
Gulf Coast Architectural Group, Inc., Pensacola, Fla., was awarded a $47,500,000 contract which will provide architectural and engineering services in support of the Air Force Reserve Command mission. A t this time, $50,000 has been obligated. AFRC/A7KA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA6643-10-D-0003).
GE Aviation Systems, Vandalia, Ohio, was awarded a $7,238,924 contract which will design the development, fabrication and testing of a solid state electrical distribution link. At this time, $575,000 has been obligated. AFRL/PKPA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-10-2-2011).
NAVY
Reyes Construction, Inc., Pomona, Calif., is being awarded a $13,968,450 firm-fixed price task order #0004 under a previously awarded multiple-award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1606) for the repair of main runway 8/26 at Naval Air Facility El Centro. The work to be performed provides for procurement design and construction for airfield pavement repairs. Work includes demolition, removal and disposal of concrete and asphalt pavements; preparation of existing base material and placement treated base material; placement of concrete and asphalt pavements; preparation and repair of concrete panels, spalls, joints, and sealant; and all incidental related work. Work will be performed in El Centro, Calif., and is expected to be completed by September 2011. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Four proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd., Gyeongnam, Korea, is being awarded a $9,577,300 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N62470-10-C-8009) to exercise Option 1 which provides for the procurement of second ship-to-shore container cranes for Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point wharf. The work to be performed provides for fabrication of ship-to-shore container cranes used in container handling operations to load and off load ships and other vessels. The cranes are manufactured in different sizes and varying capabilities. The total contract amount after exercising this option will be $27,500,000. Crane manufacturing work will be performed in Changwon, Korea, and crane installation and utilization will be performed in Southport, N.C. Work is expected to be completed by May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Navy Crane Center, Portsmouth, Va., is the contracting activity.
Ross Fresno, LLC, dba Corporate Aircraft, Inc., Fresno, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $9,010,080 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel. Other location of performance is Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno, Calif. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. There were originally three proposals solicited with three responses. The date of performance completion is March 31, 2014. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0047).
GKN Aerospace New England, Inc., Manchester, Conn. is being awarded a maximum $7,916,832 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract blade turbine rotor for the F101 turbofan engine. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The proposal was originally solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The contract consists of a one-year base with four one-year option periods. The date of performance completion is July 8, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0270).
BAE Systems, Information & Electronics Systems Integration, Nashua, N.H. is being awarded a maximum $7,049,968 firm-fixed-price, sole-source, undefinitized contract for electronic frequency convertor units. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is Sept. 1, 2011. The Defense Logistics Agency Philadelphia (DSCR-ZC), Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (N00383-05-G-009G-THAM).
L-3 Communications Westwood Corp., Tulsa, Okla., was awarded on July 7 a $175,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract. This three-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract is for the ordering of 30 and 60 kilowatt tactical quiet generator (TQG) sets to ensure the government obtains a seamless supply of TQG sets to provide the necessary and critical power for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment and combat support systems. This modification is issued to increase the contract ceiling amount by $175,000,000 from $201,000,000 to $376,000,000. Work is to be performed in Tulsa, Okla., with an estimated completion date of March 1, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. CECOM Contracting Center-Washington, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-08-D-A002).
General Dynamics OTS Garland, LP, Garland, Texas, was awarded on July 2 a $58,346,730 firm-fixed-price contract for MK80 series bomb bodies. Work is to be performed in Garland, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. HQ, Army Contracting Command, CCRC-AR, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-05-D-0006).
Inglett & Stubbs International, Ltd., Smyrna, Ga., was awarded on July 7 a $53,942,310 firm-fixed-price contract. The contractor will provide electrical crews and material required for limited electrical inspection and repair of U.S. occupied camps, not supported by the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program, in diverse areas in Afghanistan. Contractor personnel will be expected to respond to emerging conditions throughout Afghanistan and correct immediate life, health and safety issues. Contractor will field 60 licensed electricians to perform tasks identified in the statement of work. Work is to be performed in Afghanistan with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2011. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Philadelphia District, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (W912BU-10-C-0027).
Textron, Inc., New Orleans, La., was awarded on July 2 a $49,808,772 firm-fixed-price contract. This award exercises options for 52 armored security vehicles; 21 M1200 armored Knights; and 12 special tool sets with Textron Marine & Land Systems. Work is to be performed in New Orleans, La., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army TACOM, Warren, CCTA-ATB-D, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-C-0532).
Propper International, Inc., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, was awarded on July 6 a $48,999,993 firm-fixed-price contract for Marine Corps three-season sleep system. Work is to be performed in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, with an estimated completion date of April 1, 2015. Bids were solicited via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site with four bids received. U.S. Army Research Development & Engineering Command, Natick Contracting Center, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0014).
James Construction Group, LLC, Baton Rouge, La., was awarded on July 6 a $38,478,691 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the construction of "Westbank and Vicinity, New Orleans, Louisiana Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System WBV-73 Western Tie-In Highway Crossing, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana." This work consists of, but is not limited to, the construction of: T-walls; a four-lane highway bridge; temporary detour road, excavation and backfill, drainage culverts, catch basins, and headwalls; temporary retaining structures, utility relocations, clearing and grubbing, seeding and mulching; fertilizing, and other incidental work. Work is to be performed in Saint Charles Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of July 10, 2011. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with nine bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District, Hurricane Protection Office, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P9-10-C-0069).
GM GDLS Defense Group, LLC, Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on July 7 a $30,050,498 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract action directs production cut-in of the revised Stryker performance specifications, which incorporates a modified hull design into 281 vehicles. The double-V hull is an integrated solution that provides improved protection levels to support operations in the Operation Enduring Freedom area of responsibility. Work is to be performed in London, Canada (70 percent), and Sterling Heights, Mich. (30 percent), with an estimated completion date of Feb. 23, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. TACOM, CCRA-AIP, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-07-D-M112).
Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., was awarded on July 2 a $23,634,480 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the procurement of 792 months equal to 66 field service representatives for the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Work is to be performed in Oshkosh, Wis., with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2012. Five bids were solicited with five bids received. TACOM, CCTA-ADC-A, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-D-0111).
Marinex Construction, Inc., Charleston, S.C., was awarded on July 6 a $10,546,000 firm-fixed-price contract for "Maintenance Dredging, Morehead City Harbor, Ocean Bar, Carteret County, NC." Work is to be performed in Carteret County, N.C., with an estimated completion date of March 31, 2011. Twenty-five bids were solicited with five bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, Wilmington, N.C., is the contracting activity (W912HN-10-C-0037).
Alliant Ammunition and Powder Company, LLC, Radford, Va., was awarded on July 2 a $9,393,428 firm-fixed-price contract for ammunition: 194,155 M1/MP, National Stock Number (NSN) 000090042; and 1,376 M1/SP, NSN 000090041. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island Contracting Center, CCRC-AR, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-09-G-0002).
MPRI, a division of L-3 Services, Inc., Alexandria, Va., was awarded on July 6 a $7,300,000 time-and-material contract. This contract is an extension of support services for professional mentoring and training support services with reforming the Afghanistan Ministry of Defense and their subordinate organization, policies and procedures. Work is to be performed in Alexandria, Va. (99.9 percent), and Afghanistan (0.1 percent), with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Aberdeen Contracting Division, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-05-D-0014).
Rolls Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., was awarded on July 7 a $7,195,380 firm-fixed-price contract. This requirement is for 15 gas turbine engines, Model 250/C30R/3, to support the OH-58D Kiowa safety enhancement program. Work is to be performed in Indianapolis, Ind., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone, Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-D-0190).
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., was awarded on July 6 a $6,666,930 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is definitization of not-to-exceed price for the conversion of 9 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters into unique aircraft configuration for the Bahrain Defense Force, Foreign Military Sales Case BA-B-UIR. Contractor will also provide technical publication; integrated logistics support; field service representative; warranty; and ferry flight technical shipping support. Work is to be performed in Stratford, Conn., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command, AMSAM-AC-BH-A, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-08-C-0003).
Atlantic Diving Supply, Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., was awarded on July 2 a $5,800,997 firm-fixed-price contract for 4,700 Special Forces load carriage systems in both areas of responsibility (AOR): AOR 1, desert/arid terrain regions; and AOR 2, temperature/tropical forested terrain regions. This delivery order is also for 900 special warfare combat craft load carriage systems in AORs 1 and 2. Work is to be performed in Virginia Beach, Va., with an estimated completion date of May 9, 2013. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Research, Development & Engineering Command Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, CCRD-NA-SY, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0011).
AIR FORCE
Gulf Coast Architectural Group, Inc., Pensacola, Fla., was awarded a $47,500,000 contract which will provide architectural and engineering services in support of the Air Force Reserve Command mission. A t this time, $50,000 has been obligated. AFRC/A7KA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA6643-10-D-0003).
GE Aviation Systems, Vandalia, Ohio, was awarded a $7,238,924 contract which will design the development, fabrication and testing of a solid state electrical distribution link. At this time, $575,000 has been obligated. AFRL/PKPA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-10-2-2011).
NAVY
Reyes Construction, Inc., Pomona, Calif., is being awarded a $13,968,450 firm-fixed price task order #0004 under a previously awarded multiple-award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1606) for the repair of main runway 8/26 at Naval Air Facility El Centro. The work to be performed provides for procurement design and construction for airfield pavement repairs. Work includes demolition, removal and disposal of concrete and asphalt pavements; preparation of existing base material and placement treated base material; placement of concrete and asphalt pavements; preparation and repair of concrete panels, spalls, joints, and sealant; and all incidental related work. Work will be performed in El Centro, Calif., and is expected to be completed by September 2011. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Four proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd., Gyeongnam, Korea, is being awarded a $9,577,300 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N62470-10-C-8009) to exercise Option 1 which provides for the procurement of second ship-to-shore container cranes for Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point wharf. The work to be performed provides for fabrication of ship-to-shore container cranes used in container handling operations to load and off load ships and other vessels. The cranes are manufactured in different sizes and varying capabilities. The total contract amount after exercising this option will be $27,500,000. Crane manufacturing work will be performed in Changwon, Korea, and crane installation and utilization will be performed in Southport, N.C. Work is expected to be completed by May 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Navy Crane Center, Portsmouth, Va., is the contracting activity.
Ross Fresno, LLC, dba Corporate Aircraft, Inc., Fresno, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $9,010,080 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel. Other location of performance is Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno, Calif. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. There were originally three proposals solicited with three responses. The date of performance completion is March 31, 2014. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0047).
GKN Aerospace New England, Inc., Manchester, Conn. is being awarded a maximum $7,916,832 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract blade turbine rotor for the F101 turbofan engine. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. The proposal was originally solicited via the Defense Logistics Agency Internet Bid Board System Web site with two responses. The contract consists of a one-year base with four one-year option periods. The date of performance completion is July 8, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va., is the contracting activity (SPM4A7-10-D-0270).
BAE Systems, Information & Electronics Systems Integration, Nashua, N.H. is being awarded a maximum $7,049,968 firm-fixed-price, sole-source, undefinitized contract for electronic frequency convertor units. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is Sept. 1, 2011. The Defense Logistics Agency Philadelphia (DSCR-ZC), Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (N00383-05-G-009G-THAM).
Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group Conducts COMPTUEX
From Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is taking part in a composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX) July 7-30 off the East Coast of the United States.
Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) scheduled the exercise, and it will be conducted by a training team led by Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic (CSFTL).
"COMPTUEX is an invaluable training opportunity that allows us to flex our ability to operate at the warfare commander level in a tactically realistic environment," said Capt. Peter Pagano, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4 deputy commander. "It allows us to bring the different parts of the amphibious ready group together along with our allies and put them in a threat environment similar to what we could face in the real world."
COMPTUEX is designed to provide realistic training environments for U.S. naval forces that closely replicate the operational challenges routinely encountered during military operations around the world. Training such as this will ensure that the ARG is prepared to support any mission.
"It stresses all of those mission areas, the full spectrum, and it really gives us an opportunity to not only practice what we might be called upon to do, but we have evaluators on board who will assess us and provide mentorship to make us a better prepared group," said Capt. Baxter Goodly, Kearsarge's commanding officer.
The ARG is comprised of Commander, Amphibious Squadron 4, the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Kearsarge, the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and the amphibious platform docking ship USS Ponce (LPD 15).
Three British vessels will also play a major role in the COMPTUEX. The Royal Navy fleet flagship HMS Ark Royal (R07), destroyer HMS Liverpool (D92) and landing platform docks HMS Albion (L14).
The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72), the guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) and the frigate USS Doyle (FFG 39) are also be participating in this exercise.
NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is taking part in a composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX) July 7-30 off the East Coast of the United States.
Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) scheduled the exercise, and it will be conducted by a training team led by Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic (CSFTL).
"COMPTUEX is an invaluable training opportunity that allows us to flex our ability to operate at the warfare commander level in a tactically realistic environment," said Capt. Peter Pagano, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4 deputy commander. "It allows us to bring the different parts of the amphibious ready group together along with our allies and put them in a threat environment similar to what we could face in the real world."
COMPTUEX is designed to provide realistic training environments for U.S. naval forces that closely replicate the operational challenges routinely encountered during military operations around the world. Training such as this will ensure that the ARG is prepared to support any mission.
"It stresses all of those mission areas, the full spectrum, and it really gives us an opportunity to not only practice what we might be called upon to do, but we have evaluators on board who will assess us and provide mentorship to make us a better prepared group," said Capt. Baxter Goodly, Kearsarge's commanding officer.
The ARG is comprised of Commander, Amphibious Squadron 4, the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Kearsarge, the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and the amphibious platform docking ship USS Ponce (LPD 15).
Three British vessels will also play a major role in the COMPTUEX. The Royal Navy fleet flagship HMS Ark Royal (R07), destroyer HMS Liverpool (D92) and landing platform docks HMS Albion (L14).
The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72), the guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) and the frigate USS Doyle (FFG 39) are also be participating in this exercise.
Navy Embraces Diversity Through Employee Resource Groups
By Lt. Erik Wells, Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The chief of naval personnel (CNP) has a goal to reach that is both lofty and obtainable - to demonstrate the U.S. Navy is an organization ranked among the top 50 best employers.
Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson believes one way to improve the Navy's competitive advantage is by integrating a part of corporate America into the Navy mindset through the creation of employee resource groups (ERGs).
"Employee resource groups are widely used by top performing organizations in order to gain broader perspective on policies and practices desired by or affecting employees," said Ferguson. "The groups also serve as a means for employees to connect with peers and consider issues to stimulate positive change at the individual and management level."
The ERGs have support not just with military leaders, but with senior civilian leaders in the Navy as well. Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserves Affairs Juan Garcia recently addressed a joint gathering of the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) Washington, D.C., chapter and the Hispanic ERG of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations N1 (Manpower and Personnel).
"By 2030, we set a goal of having a flag pool, that is, post-major command O-6s (captains), that looks like America," said Garcia. "ERGs are the engines that are helping us get there."
In the fall of 2008, Ferguson asked the Navy Diversity Directorate to create employee resource groups. The first ERG was soon established with a focus on women. In December 2008, the Hispanic ERG and Asian Pacific Islander ERG were formed. In 2009, an employee resource group for African Americans was established.
"We want to emulate the successful organizations to serve our Sailors more effectively and give our leadership a better understanding of the concerns of the entire Navy team - military, civilian and contractor," said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Files, special assistant to the assistant deputy chief of naval operations for manpower, personnel, training and education, and action officer for CNP's African-American ERG.
While the ERGs focus on encouraging employees who are diverse to participate, all employees are encouraged to attend. The inclusiveness of the ERGs is stressed because the issues they address affect every member of the Navy. Their primary goal to date has been to focus on professional development and mentoring.
Files said it's beneficial to have employees of like minds coming together and addressing issues that impact them.
"In a large setting that is more diverse, some employees may be reluctant to speak up, but if allowed to form ERGs, there is more support among peers to address issues that impact an employee's professional environment and development," said Files.
In the two years since the ERGs were formed, there have been successes and areas that need more focus, but the overall goals of improving diversity and giving employees a greater voice are showing progress.
"The face of the Navy needs to reflect our society," said Chief Religious Program Specialist Rafael Barney, president of the ANSO Washington, D.C., chapter and action officer for the Hispanic ERG.
"ERGs are keeping the goal of greater diversity within the ranks of the Navy front and center," said Barney. "We have senior leaders from the flag community and executive service at most meetings because they are plotting the course for our future Navy and they want to mentor junior Sailors so they understand the course ahead."
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The chief of naval personnel (CNP) has a goal to reach that is both lofty and obtainable - to demonstrate the U.S. Navy is an organization ranked among the top 50 best employers.
Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson believes one way to improve the Navy's competitive advantage is by integrating a part of corporate America into the Navy mindset through the creation of employee resource groups (ERGs).
"Employee resource groups are widely used by top performing organizations in order to gain broader perspective on policies and practices desired by or affecting employees," said Ferguson. "The groups also serve as a means for employees to connect with peers and consider issues to stimulate positive change at the individual and management level."
The ERGs have support not just with military leaders, but with senior civilian leaders in the Navy as well. Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserves Affairs Juan Garcia recently addressed a joint gathering of the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) Washington, D.C., chapter and the Hispanic ERG of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations N1 (Manpower and Personnel).
"By 2030, we set a goal of having a flag pool, that is, post-major command O-6s (captains), that looks like America," said Garcia. "ERGs are the engines that are helping us get there."
In the fall of 2008, Ferguson asked the Navy Diversity Directorate to create employee resource groups. The first ERG was soon established with a focus on women. In December 2008, the Hispanic ERG and Asian Pacific Islander ERG were formed. In 2009, an employee resource group for African Americans was established.
"We want to emulate the successful organizations to serve our Sailors more effectively and give our leadership a better understanding of the concerns of the entire Navy team - military, civilian and contractor," said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Files, special assistant to the assistant deputy chief of naval operations for manpower, personnel, training and education, and action officer for CNP's African-American ERG.
While the ERGs focus on encouraging employees who are diverse to participate, all employees are encouraged to attend. The inclusiveness of the ERGs is stressed because the issues they address affect every member of the Navy. Their primary goal to date has been to focus on professional development and mentoring.
Files said it's beneficial to have employees of like minds coming together and addressing issues that impact them.
"In a large setting that is more diverse, some employees may be reluctant to speak up, but if allowed to form ERGs, there is more support among peers to address issues that impact an employee's professional environment and development," said Files.
In the two years since the ERGs were formed, there have been successes and areas that need more focus, but the overall goals of improving diversity and giving employees a greater voice are showing progress.
"The face of the Navy needs to reflect our society," said Chief Religious Program Specialist Rafael Barney, president of the ANSO Washington, D.C., chapter and action officer for the Hispanic ERG.
"ERGs are keeping the goal of greater diversity within the ranks of the Navy front and center," said Barney. "We have senior leaders from the flag community and executive service at most meetings because they are plotting the course for our future Navy and they want to mentor junior Sailors so they understand the course ahead."
Chief of Naval Reserve Visits Stuttgart
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Patrick Grieco, Commander, Navy Reserve Force Public Affairs
STUTTGART, Germany (NNS) -- The chief of the Navy Reserve visited reserve Sailors from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. European Command (EUCOM) July 8 during an all hands call at the Patch Barracks Fintess Center in Stuttgart, Germany.
"The main point is how much we appreciate their service," said Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink. "Stuttgart is an important mission and these Sailors have an important mission."
Debbink said he is consistently impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the Navy Reserves.
"I can't go anywhere without someone telling me how incredible our Sailors are," said Debbink. "Giving thanks here is a big part of it, but it's also so I can sense a feel of what's going on and take these issues back to D.C."
Debbink said he believes it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a Reservist and an active duty Sailor now.
"These days a Sailor is a Sailor," said Debbink. "Whenever we have a requirement for the Navy to fill we look across the entire fleet, active and Reserve. We pick the Sailor who is best suited to fill this requirement."
One Reservist admitted during the all hands call that he was honored to be chosen to fill a billet at one of the Navy's newest commands.
"It was incredible to be handpicked to fill this duty," said Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class James S. Browning, a target imagery analyst with ARICOM.
"Ready now, anytime, anywhere," said Debbink. "We're proud as Reservists and ready to fill whatever requirements are needed. I want Sailors to come back (to their families and friends) feeling like their time was well spent, and they accomplished the mission."
Debbink answered questions ranging from pay issues to dwell time. He said he feels he has a great honor to work with the Reserves.
"It's a privilege to be here serving our Navy in this capacity," said Debbink. "I get up everyday and go to work for 65,000 of our nation's finest. It's the great work these Sailors are doing that makes us happy every day."
EUCOM is led by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe Adm. James Stavridis and conducts military operations and builds partner capacity to enhance security and defend the homeland forward.
AFRICOM, led by Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, in concert with other U.S. government agencies and international partners, conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy.
The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team, and Joint forces, from peace to war.
STUTTGART, Germany (NNS) -- The chief of the Navy Reserve visited reserve Sailors from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. European Command (EUCOM) July 8 during an all hands call at the Patch Barracks Fintess Center in Stuttgart, Germany.
"The main point is how much we appreciate their service," said Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink. "Stuttgart is an important mission and these Sailors have an important mission."
Debbink said he is consistently impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the Navy Reserves.
"I can't go anywhere without someone telling me how incredible our Sailors are," said Debbink. "Giving thanks here is a big part of it, but it's also so I can sense a feel of what's going on and take these issues back to D.C."
Debbink said he believes it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a Reservist and an active duty Sailor now.
"These days a Sailor is a Sailor," said Debbink. "Whenever we have a requirement for the Navy to fill we look across the entire fleet, active and Reserve. We pick the Sailor who is best suited to fill this requirement."
One Reservist admitted during the all hands call that he was honored to be chosen to fill a billet at one of the Navy's newest commands.
"It was incredible to be handpicked to fill this duty," said Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class James S. Browning, a target imagery analyst with ARICOM.
"Ready now, anytime, anywhere," said Debbink. "We're proud as Reservists and ready to fill whatever requirements are needed. I want Sailors to come back (to their families and friends) feeling like their time was well spent, and they accomplished the mission."
Debbink answered questions ranging from pay issues to dwell time. He said he feels he has a great honor to work with the Reserves.
"It's a privilege to be here serving our Navy in this capacity," said Debbink. "I get up everyday and go to work for 65,000 of our nation's finest. It's the great work these Sailors are doing that makes us happy every day."
EUCOM is led by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe Adm. James Stavridis and conducts military operations and builds partner capacity to enhance security and defend the homeland forward.
AFRICOM, led by Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, in concert with other U.S. government agencies and international partners, conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy.
The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team, and Joint forces, from peace to war.
Chief of Naval Reserve Visits Stuttgart
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Patrick Grieco, Commander, Navy Reserve Force Public Affairs
STUTTGART, Germany (NNS) -- The chief of the Navy Reserve visited reserve Sailors from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. European Command (EUCOM) July 8 during an all hands call at the Patch Barracks Fintess Center in Stuttgart, Germany.
"The main point is how much we appreciate their service," said Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink. "Stuttgart is an important mission and these Sailors have an important mission."
Debbink said he is consistently impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the Navy Reserves.
"I can't go anywhere without someone telling me how incredible our Sailors are," said Debbink. "Giving thanks here is a big part of it, but it's also so I can sense a feel of what's going on and take these issues back to D.C."
Debbink said he believes it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a Reservist and an active duty Sailor now.
"These days a Sailor is a Sailor," said Debbink. "Whenever we have a requirement for the Navy to fill we look across the entire fleet, active and Reserve. We pick the Sailor who is best suited to fill this requirement."
One Reservist admitted during the all hands call that he was honored to be chosen to fill a billet at one of the Navy's newest commands.
"It was incredible to be handpicked to fill this duty," said Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class James S. Browning, a target imagery analyst with ARICOM.
"Ready now, anytime, anywhere," said Debbink. "We're proud as Reservists and ready to fill whatever requirements are needed. I want Sailors to come back (to their families and friends) feeling like their time was well spent, and they accomplished the mission."
Debbink answered questions ranging from pay issues to dwell time. He said he feels he has a great honor to work with the Reserves.
"It's a privilege to be here serving our Navy in this capacity," said Debbink. "I get up everyday and go to work for 65,000 of our nation's finest. It's the great work these Sailors are doing that makes us happy every day."
EUCOM is led by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe Adm. James Stavridis and conducts military operations and builds partner capacity to enhance security and defend the homeland forward.
AFRICOM, led by Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, in concert with other U.S. government agencies and international partners, conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy.
The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team, and Joint forces, from peace to war.
STUTTGART, Germany (NNS) -- The chief of the Navy Reserve visited reserve Sailors from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. European Command (EUCOM) July 8 during an all hands call at the Patch Barracks Fintess Center in Stuttgart, Germany.
"The main point is how much we appreciate their service," said Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink. "Stuttgart is an important mission and these Sailors have an important mission."
Debbink said he is consistently impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the Navy Reserves.
"I can't go anywhere without someone telling me how incredible our Sailors are," said Debbink. "Giving thanks here is a big part of it, but it's also so I can sense a feel of what's going on and take these issues back to D.C."
Debbink said he believes it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a Reservist and an active duty Sailor now.
"These days a Sailor is a Sailor," said Debbink. "Whenever we have a requirement for the Navy to fill we look across the entire fleet, active and Reserve. We pick the Sailor who is best suited to fill this requirement."
One Reservist admitted during the all hands call that he was honored to be chosen to fill a billet at one of the Navy's newest commands.
"It was incredible to be handpicked to fill this duty," said Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class James S. Browning, a target imagery analyst with ARICOM.
"Ready now, anytime, anywhere," said Debbink. "We're proud as Reservists and ready to fill whatever requirements are needed. I want Sailors to come back (to their families and friends) feeling like their time was well spent, and they accomplished the mission."
Debbink answered questions ranging from pay issues to dwell time. He said he feels he has a great honor to work with the Reserves.
"It's a privilege to be here serving our Navy in this capacity," said Debbink. "I get up everyday and go to work for 65,000 of our nation's finest. It's the great work these Sailors are doing that makes us happy every day."
EUCOM is led by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe Adm. James Stavridis and conducts military operations and builds partner capacity to enhance security and defend the homeland forward.
AFRICOM, led by Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, in concert with other U.S. government agencies and international partners, conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy.
The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team, and Joint forces, from peace to war.
Synthetic Training Sharpens Lincoln's Warfighting Skills
From USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Public Affairs
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Abraham Lincoln Strike Group participated in a three-day fleet synthetic training exercise July 7-9 in Everett, Wash., designed to challenge and refine the warfighting skills of its warfare commanders in a virtual environment.
Members from the San Diego-based Tactical Training Group, Pacific (TACTRAGRU) were on board USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) to mentor and place stimulus, or injects, into command display modules, which tested the warfare commanders and tactical watchstanders on their decision making abilities and their ability to communicate throughout the strike group.
TACTRAGRU's mission is to provide advanced training to warriors in order to improve their proficiency in warfighting and joint operations by presenting a challenging and timely curriculum designed to stimulate tactical thought and innovation.
"We are exercising the tactical decision makers in a realistic and stressful tactical training environment," said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Weber, a TACTRAGRU member on board Lincoln for the exercise. "We are pushing the tacticians to make correct decisions within the rules of engagement."
Another aspect of the training exercise was to ensure all strike group communications systems are fine-tuned and ready for extended operations at sea.
"The greatest value in this type of training is that we can do things through simulation that cannot be done through a real-world exercise," said Weber. "An added benefit is that by stressing real-world shipboard display and communications systems, we are able to identify and fix unforeseen problems while the ships are still in their work-up cycle."
The training encompassed all aspects of naval warfighting in a full-spectrum, tactical environment, from air and sea-space management to over-the-horizon warfare, in preparations for the strike group's upcoming, scheduled deployment.
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Abraham Lincoln Strike Group participated in a three-day fleet synthetic training exercise July 7-9 in Everett, Wash., designed to challenge and refine the warfighting skills of its warfare commanders in a virtual environment.
Members from the San Diego-based Tactical Training Group, Pacific (TACTRAGRU) were on board USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) to mentor and place stimulus, or injects, into command display modules, which tested the warfare commanders and tactical watchstanders on their decision making abilities and their ability to communicate throughout the strike group.
TACTRAGRU's mission is to provide advanced training to warriors in order to improve their proficiency in warfighting and joint operations by presenting a challenging and timely curriculum designed to stimulate tactical thought and innovation.
"We are exercising the tactical decision makers in a realistic and stressful tactical training environment," said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Weber, a TACTRAGRU member on board Lincoln for the exercise. "We are pushing the tacticians to make correct decisions within the rules of engagement."
Another aspect of the training exercise was to ensure all strike group communications systems are fine-tuned and ready for extended operations at sea.
"The greatest value in this type of training is that we can do things through simulation that cannot be done through a real-world exercise," said Weber. "An added benefit is that by stressing real-world shipboard display and communications systems, we are able to identify and fix unforeseen problems while the ships are still in their work-up cycle."
The training encompassed all aspects of naval warfighting in a full-spectrum, tactical environment, from air and sea-space management to over-the-horizon warfare, in preparations for the strike group's upcoming, scheduled deployment.
Country, Rock Music Artists Visit USS Scout
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brianna K. Dandridge, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to USS Scout (MCM 8) took a much needed break from daily maintenance operations as country artist, Natalie Stovall and members of the rock band SafetySuit paid a visit to the ship July 8.
According Stovall, the visit was important and allowed her to do something special for the military community.
The musicians were thrilled by the opportunity to play for the troops and visit a U.S. Navy ship, said Stovall.
"This trip has been a great experience, and it has been an honor to be able to play for the troops," said Stovall.
Stovall is relatively new to the country music scene, beginning her career as a child performer in Opryland Kid's Club.
The performers also held a free concert at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain July 7, sponsored by Navy Entertainment and the base's Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
During a tour of Scout, the artists were shown the ship's bridge, mess decks and command information center. Following their tour, Stovall and the members of SafetySuit met with Sailors for autographs and pictures.
Many of Scout's Sailors were able to attend the concert at NSA Bahrain and were excited by the opportunity to meet the performers in person.
"The concert was really good," said Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Southland. "It was cool to meet them."
Stovall and SafetySuit are currently travelling throughout the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) performing at military installations. Next they will travel to Djibouti and USS Nassau (LHA 4) to perform.
"Serving the troops was an opportunity that I just couldn't pass up," said Zack Morse, SafetySuit band member. "It has been a pleasure to perform for them."
Scout operates in support of ongoing 5th Fleet AOR maritime security operations (MSO), with the ability to protect ships and their crews from seemingly invisible threats in the water. Additionally, seaborne mine countermeasure ships contribute to MSO by conducting waterborne security missions and protecting oil platforms. The ships also perform escort duties, direct liaison and joint operations with coalition patrol forces and combatants.
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to USS Scout (MCM 8) took a much needed break from daily maintenance operations as country artist, Natalie Stovall and members of the rock band SafetySuit paid a visit to the ship July 8.
According Stovall, the visit was important and allowed her to do something special for the military community.
The musicians were thrilled by the opportunity to play for the troops and visit a U.S. Navy ship, said Stovall.
"This trip has been a great experience, and it has been an honor to be able to play for the troops," said Stovall.
Stovall is relatively new to the country music scene, beginning her career as a child performer in Opryland Kid's Club.
The performers also held a free concert at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain July 7, sponsored by Navy Entertainment and the base's Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
During a tour of Scout, the artists were shown the ship's bridge, mess decks and command information center. Following their tour, Stovall and the members of SafetySuit met with Sailors for autographs and pictures.
Many of Scout's Sailors were able to attend the concert at NSA Bahrain and were excited by the opportunity to meet the performers in person.
"The concert was really good," said Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Southland. "It was cool to meet them."
Stovall and SafetySuit are currently travelling throughout the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) performing at military installations. Next they will travel to Djibouti and USS Nassau (LHA 4) to perform.
"Serving the troops was an opportunity that I just couldn't pass up," said Zack Morse, SafetySuit band member. "It has been a pleasure to perform for them."
Scout operates in support of ongoing 5th Fleet AOR maritime security operations (MSO), with the ability to protect ships and their crews from seemingly invisible threats in the water. Additionally, seaborne mine countermeasure ships contribute to MSO by conducting waterborne security missions and protecting oil platforms. The ships also perform escort duties, direct liaison and joint operations with coalition patrol forces and combatants.
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