Mission to Africa – Class is in session

Wednesday, August 11, 2010
LTJG Stephanie Young

As we enter our eighth week of our West African deployment the crew continues to do different types of training. Throughout this deployment the most frequent training the crew has been doing is law enforcement (LE).

Qualified boarding officers (BO) and boarding team members (BTM) aboard Mohawk led training sessions covering everything from properly wearing LE gear to the use of deadly force.

“I have been a part of the LE team for about a year now and I still go to every training as a BTM and learn something new at every training session,” said Seaman Chloe Hicks, a crewmember and boarding team member aboard the Mohawk. “It has placed me on a path that I will follow through with for the rest of my time in the Coast Guard.”

One of the first things the crewmembers worked on was learning about conducting a boarding, how to carry themselves during a boarding, or your “officer presence.” This becomes part of every interaction members have in an LE setting and includes things like the way they stand, speak, walk and so on.

Instructors then taught members what to do with noncompliant persons during a boarding as well as learning the proper verbal commands and task direction when they don’t comply. The classroom training also includes more physical endeavors, such as how to properly handcuff someone.

“The Mohawk’s focus on law enforcement training is centered on the base values of the Coast Guard; training individuals,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Tolliver, the Law Enforcement Officer aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk. “We are giving our junior enlisted as well as junior officers the tools needed for success in the Coast Guard.”

“During my time here on Mohawk, I have attended many sessions of LE training; from learning the legal jurisdiction and authority we have, to the application of techniques we use in order to maintain our control of any situation we may be engaged in,” said Seaman Justin Morgan, a crewmember and boarding team member aboard the Mohawk. “Learning all the information and skills was no easy task, it took dedication to the training and absolute attention to those instructing me.”

One of those qualifications, probably the most dreaded, is the certification to carry Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), or pepper spray, as part of the standard LE equipment. Pepper spray is a non-lethal tool used for a multitude of Coast Guard operations including routine safety inspections aboard commercial vessels to more tactical law enforcement missions. In order to carry OC, members get sprayed with the chemical so they understand the implications of exposure in the event that they have to use it in a real life scenario.

As we continue our deployment, the BOs and BTMs will continue to reinforce the LE skills and qualifications so that every member can be ready for whatever may arise on the rest of this deployment and future patrols.

NORAD, Russia Wrap up 'Vigilant Eagle'

From a North American Aerospace Defense Command News Release

ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Aug. 11, 2010 - The storyline seemed to come straight from a Cold War suspense thriller, as North American Aerospace Defense Command forces working with their Russian counterparts tracked a "hijacked" aircraft across the Pacific Ocean, but this was no movie.

NORAD and the Russia completed the first joint exercise designed to establish clear communication processes that would allow the two forces to work together during a real crisis.

The three-day exercise, called "Vigilant Eagle," was an international air terrorism scenario conducted over the Pacific Ocean consisting of forces from the United States and Russia responding to the simulated hijacking of a B-757 en route to the Far East. NORAD's planning and exercise directorate sprearheaded the exercise.

Elements of the Transportation Security Administration's operations center, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, the 611th Air and Space Operations Group, the 176th Air Control Squadron and the Alaska NORAD Region made up the U.S. half of the exercise, while the air force navigation service's communications and radiotech directorate, office of special translation and interpretation operations directorate and the national antiterrorism office made up the Russian half.

"What we are practicing today is the communication procedures between NORAD, plus U.S. civilian air traffic control agencies and our Russian counterparts so that we can pass on information to them about air terrorism events to allow them to posture their forces to respond in kind," said Canadian Forces Col. Todd Balfe, Alaska NORAD Region deputy commander.

In the scenario presented by the exercise, a B-757 jetliner, simulated by a Gulfstream 4 jet, signaled to authorities on the ground that it has been hijacked. NORAD F-22s and an E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control aircraft scrambled in response and followed the track of interest across the Pacific, handing it off to Russian fighters as it approached Russian territory. On the second day of the exercise, it was done in reverse, with SU-27 fighters making the hand-off to F-22s as the "hijacked" aircraft approached Alaska.

Air Force Lt. Col. John Oberst, 176th ACS operations officer, said the very fact that NORAD and Russian forces were working together in this exercise made it a success.

"This exercise is one milestone in working together in other future efforts," he said. "Our folks are proud to be a part of such an important event and are passionate about partaking in efforts to protect our borders."

Russian air force Col. Alexander Vasilyev, deputy director of security and safety, said that despite the friction the two countries have had in years past, it is important for them to work together to combat the dangers of air terrorism.

"Terrorism is something that affects all our countries," he said. "So it is very important that we work together to develop procedures and bring the relationship between our countries closer together to unite our countries in the fight against terrorism."

Mount Whitney Sailors Leave a Lasting Impression

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Sylvia Nealy, USS Mount Whitney Public Affairs

LISBON, Portugal (NNS) -- Sailors from USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) volunteered and participated in a community relations (COMREL) project at an orphanage in Lisbon, Portugal, Aug. 6.

The Center for Temporary Accommodation Tercena Orphanage, ran by the Santa Casa Misericordia Cascasis (SCMC), has the capacity to accommodate 48 youth at risk.

The orphanage provides the basic needs, to include clothing, food, shelter, water and medical treatment, for the orphans, from age four to 18. The orphans came from broken homes and have been physically and/or sexually abused as a child.

"The COMREL was definitely a morale booster. I enjoy giving Sailors the opportunity to lend a helping hand by making a difference while giving back to the community," said Electronics Technician 1st Class (SW/AW) Robert Navarra, Mount Whitney's COMREL coordinator.

During the five-hour event, Sailors worked on landscaping to include raking and removing leaves, pulling weeds from the roots and using a leaf blower and weed trimmer to clean the outside back yard.

"It's wasn't just an opportunity to help a less fortunate group of people; it's also making a difference in their local community by taking care of each other," said Yeoman 1st Class (SW/AW) Eric Wasescha, a Mount Whitney Sailor.

"I enjoyed making the orphanage a better place for the children. I thought it was really cool when one child came up to me and offered to help cut off different branches from trees for several minutes," said Wasescha.

Lunch was provided by the orphanage for the appreciation of the Sailors who volunteered.

"My first thought of the military was they are supposed to fight wars. When the Sailors came to volunteer, I thought it was a beautiful thing because there are still good people in the world willing to help others in need," said Dr. Joao Pedro Monjardino, the psychologist at the orphanage who has worked there for 11 years. "The children were very appreciative and grateful for their help. Just the small things make a huge difference in the world."

Monjardino gave the Sailors a guided-tour of the orphanage. Following the tour, Navarra presented Monjardino with a command coin and a photo of the ship in appreciation of having the Sailors at the orphanage.

Mount Whitney is U.S. 6th Fleet's flagship homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a hybrid crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners.

NSA Naples Prepares for Flu Season

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristopher Regan, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East. Det. Europe

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples, Italy, medical staff is providing local military families and service members with many tips to stay healthy to prepare for the upcoming flu season, from October 2010 to May 2011.

The peak months of the flu season are from December 2010 to March 2011.

"Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year," said Lt. John Gardner, environmental health officer, Naval Hospital Naples.

Vaccinations play a very important role in staying healthy and preventing illness.

"Vaccinations are one of the best ways to put an end to spread of infectious diseases. The health and well-being of the Navy's total force and our beneficiaries is one of our top priorities. The best way to help keep our personnel and their families healthy and ready is to ensure we are prepared to provide our total force with the seasonal flu immunization in a timely fashion as it is the primary method of reducing seasonal flu illness," said Vice Adm. Adam M. Robinson Jr., the surgeon general of the Navy.

The flu vaccine will be arriving to Naples within the next few months and will be given out in stages.

"Currently our first shipment of flu vaccine is scheduled to arrive in late September (2010). The vaccine will be distributed in the order directed by Navy policy - military and civilian personnel ordered to deploy in support of an operational requirement or assigned to a ship regardless of location or deployment status; medically high risk people and health care workers in direct patient care and Navy emergency essential civilian personnel; basic and advanced trainees, officer trainees, midshipmen and the training cadre of these personnel; all other military personnel; all other mission essential or mission critical DoD civilian and contract employees and all other beneficiaries," said Gardner.

There are other steps in addition to the vaccine that can be taken to prevent becoming ill. Stopping the spread of germs is a key factor in reducing the amount of illness in the area.

"Take preventative measures to stop the spread of germs, such as covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often with soap and water and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Try to avoid close contact with sick people," said Gardner.

Jacksonville Jaguars Host Salute the Troops Night

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jacob Sippel, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Det. Southeast

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Hundreds of retired and active duty service members, along with friends and family, attended the Jacksonville Jaguars "Salute the Troops Night" at the Florida Blue Health and Wellness Practice Fields in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 5.

The practice event was the last public training camp practice for the Jaguars before the start of their season Sept. 12.

"I know they are doing this because they appreciate the things we do for them, and we are showing the Jaguars today that we'll support them this season," said Patrol Squadron (VP) 62 Command Master Chief (SW) Phil Rogers. "The support the Jaguars have shown us really means a lot and it is exciting to be here."

During the festivities, the crowd was treated to a live performance by the Albany, Georgia, Marine Corps Band and many of the local Sailors of the Year were recognized for their dedication to the United States. Shortly after the performance of the band and tribute to the service members, Jaguars tight end Mercedes Lewis spoke to the crowd.

"On behalf of the Jacksonville Jaguars organization, we want to give you a special thanks and really want to say that we appreciate everyone coming out here today," said Lewis. "We work hard, but you guys work even harder. We honestly can't thank you enough."

After the heart-felt speech, Jaguars General Manager Gene Smith also had a message to service members in attendance.

"Today is a special day and a day that I am proud to be a Jaguar," stated Smith. "For me, living in a military city and raising my family here, I have great respect for what the military does for us on a daily basis."

The ceremonies concluded with a flyover by a SH-60B helicopter from Naval Station Mayport's Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 60, just as the Jacksonville Jaguars took the field for practice.

National Guard, Coast Guard Rescue Plane Crash Victims

By Air Force Maj. Guy Hayes
Alaska National Guard

Aug. 11, 2010 - The Alaska Air National Guard and the Coast Guard rescued four people from a crash of a single-engine float plane 17-miles north of Dillingham, Alaska, the night of Aug. 9.

The plane, a de Havilland Otter, was carrying former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens and eight others when it crashed into a mountainside en route to the Nushagak River for a fishing trip. Stevens was killed in the crash.

The Alaska Air National Guard's 210th, 211th and 212th Rescue Squadrons were contacted and deployed to the scene, but were unable to make it to the crash site because of inclement weather. The survivors spent the night at the wreckage, but were assisted by four medical personnel who were flown to the site by local helicopter pilots before the weather made it impossible for Guard assets to get to the scene.

Yesterday morning, the weather cleared enough for an Alaska Air National Guard HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter carrying Alaska Air National Guard pararescuemen Senior Master Sgt. Jonathan Davis and Tech. Sgt. Kristofer Abel to the crash site to administer medical assistance.

A Coast Guard C-130 was provided overhead communication support and was available to take victims in need of further medical treatment to Anchorage once they were transported to Dillingham.

Poor weather remained a factor, with less than a quarter-mile visibility at the crash site and less than a 100-foot ceiling in the area, but the Alaska National Guard and Coast Guard were able to transport the four survivors -- Sean O'Keefe, Kevin O'Keefe, Jim Morhard and William "Willy" Phillips Jr. -- to Dillingham.

The Alaska Air National Guard arrived in Dillingham first, with two critical patients onboard, and was met by medical personnel from the Dillingham Hospital.

The Coast Guard HH-60 Jay Hawk brought the two other patients to Dillingham. Three of the survivors were transloaded onto a Coast Guard C-130 and brought to Anchorage, while the fourth survivor was brought to Anchorage on a civilian air ambulance flight. "I have tremendous respect for our service men and women, the emergency first responders and their ability to perform heroically in the most trying of times," said Army Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Katkus, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard. "The Alaska National Guard in a joint effort with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Alaska Department of Public Safety were extremely resilient and professional in their efforts to rescue the remaining survivors of the plane crash and getting them to medical attention as quickly as possible."

The Alaska Air National Guard and Coast Guard were credited with four saves for this mission.

Meanwhile, the Alaska Air National Guard is transporting the remaining two individuals involved in an Aug. 8 aircraft accident on Knik Glacier to Mat-Su Regional Hospital. Three others were evacuated to a hospital yesterday.

Officials at the 11th Rescue Coordination Center said an Alaska Air National Guard HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter was able to land on the glacier and rescue the final two plane crash victims and the three Alaska Army National Guardsmen who were involved in a Black Hawk helicopter accident during a rescue effort yesterday.

An Alaska Air National Guard combat rescue officer and three Alaska Air National Guard pararescuemen remain on the glacier.

Soldiers Missing in Action from Vietnam War Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of two U.S. servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Paul G. Magers of Sidney, Neb., will be buried on Aug. 27 in Laurel, Mont., and Army Chief Warrant Officer Donald L. Wann of Shawnee, Okla., will be buried on Aug. 21 in Fort Gibson, Okla.

On June 1, 1971, both men were flying aboard an AH-1 Cobra gunship in support of an emergency extraction of an Army ranger team in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam. After the rangers were extracted, helicopters were ordered to destroy claymore mines which had been left behind in the landing zone. During this mission their helicopter was hit by ground fire, crashed and exploded. Pilots who witnessed the explosions concluded that no one could have survived the crash and explosions. Enemy activity in the area precluded a ground search.

In 1990, analysts from DPMO, the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) and their predecessor organizations interviewed both American and Vietnamese witnesses and produced leads for field investigations. In 1993 and 1998, two U.S.-Socialist Republic of Vietnam teams, led by JPAC, surveyed the suspected crash site and found artifacts and debris consistent with a Cobra gunship. In mid-1999, another joint team excavated the site, but it stopped for safety reasons when the weather deteriorated. No remains were recovered, but the team did find wreckage associated with the specific crash they were investigating.

The Vietnamese government subsequently declared the region within Quang Tri Province where the aircraft crashed as off-limits to U.S. personnel, citing national security concerns. As part of an agreement with JPAC, a Vietnamese team unilaterally excavated the site and recovered human remains and other artifacts in 2008. The Vietnamese returned to the site in 2009, expanded the excavation area and discovered more remains and additional evidence.

Forensic analysis, circumstantial evidence and the mitochondrial DNA match to the Magers and Wann families by the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory confirmed the identification of the remains.

For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call 703-699-1169.

Guard Aircraft Damaged During Alaska Glacier Rescue

By Army Maj. Guy Hayes
Alaska National Guard

Aug. 11, 2010 - An Alaska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter was reported to be heavily damaged when it slid and rolled over on Knik Glacier during a rescue mission.

The Black Hawk's three crewmembers were reported to be uninjured.

The soldiers were attempting to rescue five people involved in an Aug. 8 aircraft accident.

The 11th Rescue Coordination Center dispatched an HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter and HC-130 Hercules transport plane from the Alaska Air National Guard's 210th, 211th and 212th Rescue Squadrons to the scene to assist in recovery efforts. The aircraft accident is under investigation.

Rescue center officials originally contacted the Air Guard squadrons Aug. 8 after a personal locator beacon signaled a possible accident at about 1 p.m. The beacon identified a plane belonging to a Palmer, Alaska, resident. The pilot was on a one-hour sightseeing trip with four friends from out of state.

"The pilot had taken his father's plane on a sightseeing trip from Palmer over the Knik Glacier," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Bellamy, rescue coordination center controller for the Alaska Air National Guard. "They were scheduled to return to Palmer, but the ... beacon gave us coordinates that the plane was on Knik Glacier."

Weekend alert crews with the Alaska Air National Guard were contacted and immediately reported to base and launched an HH-60 Pave Hawk and HC-130 Hercules with pararescuemen onboard to the coordinates at about the 8,500 foot level of Knik Glacier.

"Weather at those high altitudes and the cloud deck prevented us from getting to the aircraft," Bellamy said. "With it getting late and the weather not improving, we started to look at alternative means of getting help to the people up there."

To add to the urgency of the situation, the people involved in the aircraft accident do not have survival gear, and family members said they were wearing light clothing when they departed.

At about 10 p.m., a Guardian Angel team --consisting of combat rescue officer Maj. Jesse Peterson and pararescuemen Master Sgt. Al Lankford and Tech. Sgts. Chris Uriarte and Angel Santana -- was inserted at a lower elevation to hike to coordinates of the locator beacon. "The Guardian Angel team was inserted about four miles away from the aircraft site with shelter, food and gear," said 1st. Lt John Romspert, a combat rescue officer with the Alaska Air Guard's 212th Rescue Squadron.

Using mountaineering skis and towing sleds full of gear, the Guardian Angel team was the best bet to provide survival gear to the people at the plane.

"We continue to have good communication between the Guardian Angel team and the aircraft, so even though it's slow going with the weather conditions they're facing, hopefully they'll reach them soon," Romspert said.

"We're focused on getting our survival experts, the Guardian Angel team, to the distressed crew as quickly as possible," Air Force Brig. Gen. Charles E. "Chuck" Foster, commander of the Alaska Air Guard's 176th Wing, said Aug. 9. "I'm confident if they get the gear to them, that their ability to sustain them in these weather conditions is greatly improved."

Weather conditions on Aug. 8 and Aug. 9, which included blizzard like conditions, cloud cover from the ground to 13,000 feet and 70 mph winds, delayed the team's ability to get to the people, and attempts from the air to get to the distressed crew haven't worked either, Bellamy said.

"We attempted to drop survival gear from the HC-130 and HH-60, but were unable to get the equipment to the people because of the conditions," he said. "We currently still have crews out there circling the area in the HC-130 and HH-60, waiting for a break in the weather, but the conditions haven't improved."

Yesterday, the Army Guard Black Hawk was sent to the scene, when it slid and rolled on the glacier.

The HH-60 Pave Hawk and HC-130 Hercules from the Alaska Air National Guard's 210th, 211th and 212th Rescue Squadrons were then sent in to recover all 12 personnel, including the three-man Alaska Army Guard crew, the four Air Guard pararescuemen from the Guardian Angel team and the five PA32 crash victims.

Guard officials said the HH-60 recovered three of the crash victims and transported them to Matanuska Regional Hospital in Palmer, Alaska. A second sortie was launched to rescue the remaining personnel, but it was unable to reach the crash site due to inclement weather. The HH-60 will remain in Palmer to wait for better weather conditions.

The passengers of the civilian aircraft were reported to have suffered only minor bruises in the crash.

Deputy Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Visits TSC Great Lakes

By James F. Antonucci, Training Support Center Great Lakes Public Affairs

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (NNS) -- The deputy commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) observed the training techniques employed at Training Support Center (TSC) Great Lakes and learning sites to train students Aug. 6.

USFF supports both the chief of naval operations (CNO) and combatant commanders worldwide by providing responsive, relevant, sustainable naval forces ready-for-tasking. The command provides operational and planning support to combatant commanders and integrated warfighter capability requirements to the CNO.

Additionally, USFF serves as the CNO's designated executive agent for anti-terrorism/force protection (ATFP), individual augmentees (IA), and sea basing.

Vice Adm. Peter H. Daly, a native of Chicago, has completed sea duty assignments including USS Roark (FF-1053); USS Stump (DD 978); USS Hercules (PHM-2) and USS Yorktown (CG-48); USS Russell (DDG-59). He has commanded Destroyer Squadron 31 in support of the Abraham Lincoln Battle Group and commanded Carrier Strike Group 11.

In a tour hosted by TSC Commanding Officer Capt. Caroline M. Olinger, Daly observed TSC learning sites such as the Center for Naval Engineering (CNE) Great Lakes and the Center for Surface Combat Systems Unit (CSCSU); examining the process that trains Sailors on their path to the fleet.

"Having Vice Adm. Daly tour facilities at TSC and the learning sites has given him tremendous insight into the various training programs, the quality of the staff and the apprenticeship level of skills that students will take to the fleet," said Olinger. Visiting CNE Great Lakes and the Mentor Associated Basic Engineering Common Core (BECC) labs and computer-based training (CBT) classrooms, Daly observed the course features in detail. BECC balances CBT training with hands-on training labs, instructor-led classroom training, and the study of fleet equipment in extremely realistic simulations creating an Integrated Learning Environment (ILE) or "blended" training atmosphere.

Daly was briefed on the equipment students run through during their training, which include troubleshooting techniques and other operational issues utilizing the mock-up generators. At the Engineman "C" or advanced school, the massive Diesel Front Panel Simulator was demonstrated along with other curriculum trainers.

"My tour of the Center for Surface Combat Systems and the Center for Naval Engineering was a great experience," Daly said. "Schools of instruction provide an opportunity for young Sailors to establish the foundation and skill sets required to arrive in the fleet and be immediately useful to their work centers and divisions."

Officer in Charge of Center for Naval Engineering, Cmdr. Michael R. Curtis said "Vice Adm. Daly's visit exemplified the need for the Navy's fleet leaders to better understand and see firsthand the efforts that go into training new Sailors. Being better acquainted with our current training philosophy and methodology, he will be prepared to provide direct input from the front lines to make sure our training is meeting the needs of the fleet."

Following the visit to the different strands at CNE, Daly proceeded to experience the learning environment at the Center for Surface Combat Systems Unit (CSCSU).

With a tour of the Gunner's Mate (GM) "A" School at the facility, again utilizing CBT and ILE concepts, Daly was shown just what materials are in the curriculum and how students interact with computers and simulators.

"The 'blended' teaching environment appears to create an atmosphere for these Sailors to get the best of CBT, while remaining coupled with hands-on instructor-based labs and instruction," Daly said.

"This setting is a great way to lay the groundwork required for a successful naval career in the Fleet."

It was very clear that these methodologies are key in all cases to the presentation of the curriculum of this phase of learning for weapons training, and all advanced electronics and computer fields.

Lastly the Firearms Training Simulator or FATS was demonstrated to give the Daly a true sense of training simulations at the GM school. Daly took the opportunity test out a few of the simulated weapons himself, and came away with a smile as all of the school's visitors do.

About the presentations, Daly commented that it was impressive to see TSC's training environment tied to the training Sailors receive as recruits by incorporating watchstanding, physical training, and other GMT into their curriculum.

"In all, TSC is achieving the needs of the Fleet and producing outstanding Sailors," he stated.

Speaking of the training environments provided by TSC and learning sites, Olinger finished up with, "Touring a facility such as ours will provide him with the first-hand data to assist in him in informing the CNO of TSC's needs that we may continue to support the Fleet."

TSC Great Lakes is the only training command located within the same vicinity as Boot Camp and is the home of six learning sites operated independently. The command supports 90 percent of the Surface Navy schools and averages 16,000 student throughputs per year.

National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of August 10, 2010

This week the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps announced a decrease in activated reservists, while the Navy announced an increase. The Coast Guard reported no change. The net collective result is 289 fewer reservists activated than last week.

At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 76,357; Navy Reserve, 6,519; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 15,201; Marine Corps Reserve, 4,549; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 787. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 103,413, including both units and individual augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found on line at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100810ngr.pdf

Enlisted Warfare Qualifications: A Mandatory Requirement

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Sonya Ansarov, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Initial enlisted warfare qualifications are now mandatory for all Sailors per the recent release of NAVADMIN 268-10.

The NAVADMIN announces the release of OPNAVINST 1414.9, Navy Enlisted Warfare Qualification Programs Instruction, which issues the basic overarching requirements for the qualification and designation of all enlisted warfare programs.

The arduous and often unforgiving environment we operate in as a Navy and Sailor dictates the need for all personnel to have a basic understanding and operating knowledge of the platform or command to which they are assigned.

Warfare programs are essential in ensuring our Sailors understand and are able to effectively engage a casualty, operate equipment or platforms safely and ensure backup as needed. Warfare qualifications are about ship, shipmate and self, and ensure the safety and safe operation of each command and platform on a daily basis.

"It's a standard every Sailor must achieve. The warfare device itself is a symbol that the Sailors who are wearing it have a basic level of knowledge to ensure they are capable of fighting the ship, saving a shipmate and ensuring the safety of themselves at all times," said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON), Rick D. West. "Having every Sailor at or working toward that level will only strengthen the war-fighting ability of that command and the Navy."

According to the NAVADMIN, qualification and/or re-qualification is mandatory for all enlisted Sailors assigned to designated warfare qualifying commands.

Warfare sponsors (Type Commanders) will establish specific qualification and re-qualifying timelines however, the maximum allowable time for initial qualification of all enlisted Sailors assigned to designated warfare qualifying commands will not exceed 30 months. Timelines for warfare qualifications are set by the Type Commander's instructions and each TYCOM will have oversight of their programs.

According to West, some of the biggest questions he hears from Sailors are:

- What happens if a Sailor doesn't qualify in time? West stated that failure to qualify in the specific warfare program within the prescribed time requirements shall immediately result in a special performance evaluation that removes promotion recommendation, but the promotion recommendation may be restored with a special performance evaluation when qualification is achieved.

- Will a Sailor be penalized if their command doesn't offer the opportunity for warfare qualification? According to West, Sailors without the opportunity to qualify in a warfare specialty will not be penalized. However Sailors should look for follow-on opportunities to obtain a warfare device when able.

- Will having mandatory qualifications water down the existing programs? West stated, quite the contrary; by mandating warfare qualifications for all enlisted personnel, it will significantly "raise the bar" across the command regarding level of knowledge of the command and the systems our Sailors operate. It is incumbent on those that wear the warfare pin of the command to ensure the integrity and strength of the existing programs.

- How will Sailors stand-out amongst peers if everyone is required to have a warfare pin? According to West, Sailors stand out every day. Performance and the Sailor's overall command support should be the biggest factors to "break out" individuals.

"I often highlight efficient manning and future platforms such as LCS as examples of the need to ensuring our Sailors have a good, basic understanding of the systems and fighting capabilities of the command to which they are assigned," said West.

Efficiency Initiative Has Broad Support, Cartwright Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 10, 2010 - The efficiency initiatives Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced yesterday are just part of a drive that has been moving since the secretary took office, the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said. Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright said the effort to find efficiencies in the department and to apply the savings to more deserving projects is not a "one-off" activity, but rather will continue.

"We started back in '08 and '09 with culling out programs that were not performing and were not contributing to the capabilities that we thought we had to have, either because they were failing on their own or they didn't match up," Cartwright said following the secretary's announcement. "That activity has continued inside the department to ensure that we stay relevant to the wars that we're in, and that we also start to address the uncertainties and the unforecast activities that may occur in the wars ... we will face in the future."

Much of the discussion has centered on how to change the culture of the massive defense bureaucracy and how such a large organization can stay competitive. The discussions also looked at identifying technologies and capabilities that will be needed in the future.

The Defense Department "requires a culture that is agile, has the capabilities to remain agile and remain competitive," the general said.

Cartwright spoke alongside Defense Department Comptroller Robert F. Hale and Christine H. Fox, director of the Pentagon's cost assessment and program evaluation office, and all said they support the secretary's initiative aimed at reforming the Pentagon and eliminating unnecessary duplicative costs.

Cartwright acknowledged that guessing what capabilities are needed to fight the next war is difficult, if not impossible, and that building a force around those guesses is a recipe for failure. But stressing the need for intelligent and agile-minded personnel will serve the military and the nation, he added.

"I have all too many experiences, from the '70s forward, of having capabilities that we thought were right for the last war and really turned out not to be what we needed for the next war," he said. "There is no crystal ball, but there is an understanding that through your people and through the capabilities that you field, you can have the Department of Defense and the national security apparatus relevant for the next conflicts. That's our objective here."

Cartwright said the members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff intuitively understand this, and see the secretary's initiatives as having positive effects on the force.

"Making sure that we keep this organization relevant, competitive, agile for the next-generation conflicts is at the core of this activity," he said. "Having the resources in the wrong place doesn't serve any of us well."

The general acknowledged the decisions are hard and will affect people – most notably those in U.S. Joint Forces Command, the office of the assistant secretary of defense for network integration and the Business Transformation Agency, which Gates will close. "This is a rebalancing to ensure this department remains ready both for today's conflicts and for the unknowns and 'unanticipateds' of the future conflict," Cartwright said.

Those who think this effort will fizzle out are in for a surprise, the general said.

"Please don't misread; this is something that we believe is No. 1 on our list," he said. "This is something that we are going to go after."

Guardsman Takes First Jump With Prosthetic

By Army 1st Lt. David Leiva \Mississippi National Guard

Aug. 10, 2010 - Faced with a long recovery and the reality that he might never run, surf or return to his Special Forces team, Army Staff Sgt. Andre Murnane made the decision last year to have his right leg amputated below the knee after it was shattered by a roadside bomb that detonated in eastern Afghanistan. "My dreams and ambitions didn't end that day. It simply started a new chapter," the Maryland National Guard soldier said.

And a new breakthrough.

Murnane, 28, of Salisbury, Md., entered Green Beret lore this month when he became the first Army National Guard Special Forces soldier with a prosthetic leg to jump out of an aircraft. Army doctors cleared him to jump in June.

While several Special Forces soldiers with prosthetics have completed airborne operations, Murnane is the first National Guardsman to do so.

Murnane admitted he felt nervous about the historic jump that took place here Aug. 1. And he was a bit worried about the prosthetic leg shifting from the opening shock of the parachute and how it would hold up when he landed.

"It held just fine with new prosthetic technology and some good old-fashioned duct tape," he said. "Once I was under canopy, my thoughts shifted to the two runways that were on the drop zone. I barely cleared one of them by 15 or 20 meters. Just before landing, I wondered what it was going to feel like, but I just kept telling myself, 'Feet and knees together, and relax.'"

In October, the communications sergeant from Bravo Company of 2nd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group, was on a combat operation on a mountain when a pressure-plate bomb detonated while his team was clearing an area after being ambushed. He was evacuated to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where he underwent several surgeries to repair his right foot and ankle. It was there where he realized the surgeries would never completely restore his leg. He has taken it all in stride, though.

"Life is a journey, and the journey is the destination," he said. "You have to accept change in your life and continue to live it like you did before. It takes some extra work, but if you train hard and stay motivated, you can do anything you want to."

U.S. Aid to Pakistani Flood Victims Ramps Up

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 10, 2010 - U.S. Army helicopters took advantage of a break in the weather to fly relief missions in Pakistan yesterday and today, rescuing 916 people and delivering 89,000 pounds of relief supplies.

Four Chinook helicopters and two Black Hawks aided Pakistani officials in the northwestern part of the country, where flooding and landslides have isolated large swaths of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

To date, U.S. helicopters have rescued 2,305 people and transported 211,000 pounds of supplies in 40 sorties. Weather has been a tremendous obstacle, with monsoon rains still falling over the area. The choppers, based in Afghanistan's Ghazi air base, could not fly for two days earlier this week.

The flooding in Pakistan may end up being the biggest natural disaster in the nation's history, United Nations officials said yesterday.

The deadly floods, triggered by the monsoon, have spread from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to the more populous provinces of Punjab, Balochistan and Sindh in the south, said Martin Mogwanja, U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Pakistan.

The flooding has destroyed or badly damaged more than 250,000 homes, and has left at least 1.5 million people homeless, according to Pakistani and U.N. figures. Pakistani officials say around 1,600 people have died in the floods, and perhaps 4.5 million people are affected in some way in the country.

"What makes this unique is the scale of the disaster and its effect throughout the entire country," U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Anne W. Patterson said Aug. 6. "The earthquake and the displacement of 2 million people from the Swat Valley were more localized. So while the loss of life ... in this disaster may be less, the economic impact and the need for reconstruction assistance over time could well be greater."

The number of affected people is expected to rise to 6 million by the end of the week, as the flood waters on the Indus River move south. At least 92 bridges over the river and its tributaries have been destroyed, and more than 200 major roads have been damaged, Patterson said. "There are four major dams at risk," she said. "Crop and livestock loss will affect long-term livelihood and food security."

Officials with the U.N.'s World Food Program estimated that as many as 2.5 million people will require food assistance.

The United States has added $35 million in assistance to the $10 million already allocated. "Our [Defense Department] colleagues, recognizing the growing crisis, immediately went on a search for emergency meals," Patterson said. "On [Aug. 7], U.S. aircrews aboard the U.S. Air Force C-130 and C-17 transport aircraft flew into Rawalpindi and delivered about 50,000 halal meals in support of a Pakistan government request. That number grew through the week to nearly 436,000 meals." Halal meals conform with Islamic law.

The United States also has provided prefabricated steel bridges, inflatable boats and water filtration capabilities.

Senior Executive Service Appointments and Reassignments

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced the following Department of Defense Senior Executive Service appointments and reassignments:

Appointments

John Campbell has been appointed to the Senior Executive Service and is assigned as deputy under secretary of defense for wounded warrior care and transition policy (personnel and readiness), Washington, D.C. Campbell previously served as chief executive officer of MyVetwork, New York.

Robert L. Gordon III has been appointed to the Senior Executive Service and is assigned as deputy under secretary of defense for military community and family policy (personnel and readiness), Washington, D.C. Gordon previously served as senior vice president for Civic Leadership, Boston, Mass.

Laura D. Stubbs has been appointed to the Senior Executive Service and is assigned as director, personnel and readiness, integrations and strategic management, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, (Personnel and Readiness), Washington, D.C. Stubbs previously served as process improvement specialist with the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia, Pa.

Reassignments

Steven Fisher has been assigned as director, Business Integration Office, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), Washington, D.C. Fisher previously James Neighbors has been assigned as deputy director for personnel and readiness, integration and strategic management, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness), Washington, D.C. Neighbors previously served as director, Headquarters Air Force Information Management and chief information officer, U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C.

Paul Peters has been assigned as deputy assistant secretary of defense (supply chain integration), Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics), Washington, D.C. Peters previously served as deputy director, logistics operations and readiness, Defense Logistics Agency, Fort Belvoir, Va.

'Vigilant Eagle' Tests NORAD, Russian Response

By Army Maj. Mike Humphreys
North American Aerospace Defense Command

Aug. 10, 2010 - An automated female voice commands over onboard speakers, "Traffic! Traffic! Descend! Descend!" as a North American Aerospace Defense Command F-22 fighter approaches the right wing of the track of interest.

Five minutes after take-off from Anchorage en route to the Far East, Fencing 1220 -- a Gulfstream 4 simulating a Boeing 757 commercial jetliner -- squawked an emergency to ground controllers, spurring action from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Defense Department and kicking off exercise Vigilant Eagle, the first joint counter air-terrorism exercise between NORAD and the Russian air force.

"What we are practicing today is communication procedures between NORAD, plus U.S. civilian air traffic control agencies and our Russian counterparts so that we can pass on information to them about air terrorism events to allow them to posture their forces to respond in kind," said Canadian Forces Col. Todd Balfe, Alaska NORAD Region deputy commander.

Once the FAA was notified of the trouble on Fencing 1220, they requested assistance from NORAD, which assigned an E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control platform to the track of interest and diverted two F-22 fighters to intercept, Balfe said. Because of the aircraft's planned route, which would take it over Russian airspace, it was necessary to notify Russian air traffic controllers and the Russian military.

At a predetermined location halfway across the Pacific Ocean, the NORAD E-3, in direct communication with its Russian equivalent, an A-50 Mainstay, handed over control. Moments later, a deep Russian baritone bellowed, "Fencing One-Two-Two-Zero," over the aircraft's radio, and two SU-27 Russian fighters joined the pursuit close enough to see the sun reflecting off the pilot's visor.

The feeling on board Fencing 1220 was one of collective awe as former Cold War opponents witnessed the fruit of years of planning and joint effort, but the scenario has all too real implications.

"This exercise is very beneficial to North America and to Russia," said Col. Alexander Vasilyev, deputy director of security and safety for the Russian air force. "There has never been an exercise like this before.

"Terrorism is something that affects all our countries," he continued, "so it is very important that we work together to develop procedures and bring the relationship between our countries closer together to unite our countries in the fight against terrorism."

Back in Alaska, members of the 176th Air Control Squadron worked with Russian officers as exercise controllers, making sure all the appropriate processes and procedures were carried out.

Air Force Master Sgt. Doug Patchin, 176th ACS, said he believes Vigilant Eagle is a ground-breaking event that could be emulated by other commands. "This exercise is phenomenal," he said. "The hope is that everyone walks away from the exercise with a common understanding of what communication procedures would be used in a real-world crisis."

Balfe described Vigilant Eagle as a momentous exercise and a watershed event.

"We are trying to transition our relationships militarily from a period of confrontation in the Cold War to a period of cooperation, and there is no better mission for NORAD to partner with our Russian counterparts than on the air terrorism mission," he said. "Regardless of other geopolitical events, we all agree that air terrorism is something we want to prevent, deter and, if necessary, defeat."

After six hours of tracking by ground controllers in the United States and Russia and aerial surveillance by U.S. and Russian airborne warning and control platforms and fighter aircraft, Fencing 1220 safely landed in the Far East to be handed over to authorities.

After an overnight rest, the exercise was conducted in reverse, allowing Russian forces to turn over responsibility to NORAD and bring Vigilant Eagle 2010 to a successful completion, Balfe said.

"We've worked hard on both sides to make this work, and I think it would be logical for this exercise to be a building block for future cooperation between our nations," Balfe said. "We are building this relationship stronger, which has a real benefit to U.S. and Canadian citizens and obviously Russian citizens too."

Former Army Nurse Now Veterans' Greatest Advocate

National Nurses Week, May 6-12, is a time when VA recognizes the outstanding work of all our Nurses. This week we shine the light on several of our OEF/OIF Nurses who care for our newest population of Veterans.

As a nurse receiving some of the most severely wounded in Afghanistan, Tracey-Lee Baker held the hand of injured servicemembers and helped them talk through the fear and the pain.

Today, those experiences enhance her role as a Transition Patient Advocate at the Orlando VA Medical Center.

Her years as an Army Nurse Corps Officer enabled her to understand the uncertainty and bewilderment of some Veterans transitioning from Department of Defense medical care to the VA. Once again, she is able to take their hand and, this time, guide them through the forms, explanations and regulations on their way to the care they have earned from their service.

The former Major Tracey-Lee Baker learned her nursing skills at Norfolk State University, Virginia, a long way from her home in Kingston, Jamaica. Before her tour of duty in Afghanistan with the 48th Combat Support Hospital, she served three years in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

"I miss the work in the ICU. Although we didn't always have all the supplies we needed during my deployment, we were able to stabilize the most severely wounded and prepare them for flights to Germany or the states. Every day, we would see the real sacrifices these young men and women make for their country."

At the Orlando VA Medical Center, Tracey-Lee is part of the team that welcomes home and makes transition easier for Veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF).

The great job her team does was recognized by a special award from Representative Corrine Brown of Florida's Third Congressional District, "In recognition of outstanding and invaluable service to the community."

Tracey-Lee reaches out to returning Veterans in numerous ways, one of which is participation in the Department of Defense "Yellow Ribbon" program where VA staff provide "boots on the ground" for events for each of the services during the post-deployment cycle, meeting with returning servicemembers. VA has supported over 665 events Nationwide, reaching over 80,000 service members and 54,000 family members.

"You Need to See Tracey-Lee"

One story demonstrates why the VA is saluting Tracey-Lee during the celebration of National Nursing Week 2010: A Veteran who had initially not been happy with the VA was about to give up when his buddy told him, "No, man, you need to see Tracey-Lee."

The next day he did. She escorted him around the medical center, filling out all the forms, taking him to see the right people and even made an appointment for him to see a doctor that day.

His reaction: "I am so glad I came to see you…nobody has ever treated me that way." He still stops in to say hello whenever he comes in for an appointment.

Tracey-Lee explains, "That's my job. I will do whatever I can to see that Veterans transitioning to VA care get the service they deserve."

Some weeks, her team sees 12 new Veteran patients. Some weeks, it's 50.

The mother of three, Tracey-Lee proudly points out that her oldest boy, Paul, is 21 and in the Army. When he's home, they celebrate with her famous curry goat, a delicious part of her Jamaican heritage. She also relaxes by reading the latest novel by James Patterson, one of her favorite authors.

For this retired Army officer, who thought she wanted to be an accountant in high school, choosing a career in nursing turned out to be one of her most satisfying decisions. "It's a wonderful career," she quietly concludes.

A Nurse from the Start, a Nurse at Heart

By Megan Tyson, VA Staff Writer

National Nurses Week, May 6-12, is a time when VA recognizes the outstanding work of all our Nurses. This week we shine the light on several of our OEF/OIF Nurses who care for our newest population of Veterans.

Some people know their dream job from the start. June Callasan, RN, is one of those people. She knew she wanted to be a nurse since age 15, and she can't imagine being happier in any other job.

"Nursing has sort of been my passion for years. I've always enjoyed helping people and I love the outcomes of it. You get to see your patients as they improve in their recovery," said Callasan.

Callasan grew up in Guam where she was introduced to a nursing program at her high school. She joined the program and in no time realized she had found her dream job. She earned a nursing assistant certificate and worked as a candy striper before she finished her senior year.

Ready to Work at the VA

After graduation, she left her island home to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing at Seattle University. That's when she was introduced to job possibilities at the VA. She received a VA scholarship, completed her studies, and started her role as a nurse at the VA Medical Center in Long Beach, California, where she works today.

Callasan, who is always up for a challenge, entered a nurse management apprenticeship and soon stepped into the role of nurse manager for a medical telemetry unit manager. She achieved this in less than five years as an RN — an unusual feat.

Callasan processes referrals for OEF/OIF service members who are transitioning into the VA health care from active duty.

Soon after, Callasan tried her hand at nursing jobs in non-VA hospitals, but after a few years she decided to return to the VA world, at the Long Beach VA. "I really missed the VA family," she explained. "Also, the VA is special to me because my brother is an army Veteran. If not for the VA, my brother, who is a Veteran with 70% service connected disability, wouldn't have the benefits he has now."

Happily Helping OEF/OIF Veterans

Now Callasan works as a Program Manager for the OEF/OIF Care Management Service. She started with the program in 2003 when the OEF/OIF program was in its infancy.

"I'm committed to OEF/OIF services. It's sort of my baby and it would be hard to let it go," she explained. "I've seen how our services help returning service members and their families — those who are severely injured, ill, or facing readjustment challenges — and I want to continue to care for them and lead my team of case managers."

Callasan recently started a master's degree program, with a focus on nursing leadership and management. Her education goal will help her find new ways to improve Veterans services and enhance her skills as a nurse leader.

Outside of work, Callasan can be found spending time with her husband and three kids or stirring something up in the kitchen. She is a big fan of cooking as a hobby.

Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Hosts Mud Run

rom Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Public Affairs
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- More than 2,500 runners of all ages participated in the 10th annual Armed Services (AS) YMCA 8K Mud Run Aug. 7 at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

The family-oriented event has become a signature event for the ASYMCA, a nonprofit organization serving junior military families throughout Hampton Roads. Proceeds from the Mud Run help the ASYMCA provide junior military families childcare, child development and spouse support activities.

"What a great event," said Bob Duetsch, director of the Hampton Roads ASYMCA. "We had great weather and a great turnout, a record number of runners. I couldn't ask for anything more."

Each year, the ASYMCA provides adult runners an eight kilometer course to complete and a challenging Mini-Mud Run for children aged 5-12.

"This was our second time participating in the run. It's something we can do as a family," said Tim O'Rourke, vice president of Academic Affairs, Virginia Wesleyan College, who ran the course with his two daughters and son-in-law. "Also, it's nice to be able to get on base. I'm proud to be associated with our service members."

O'Rourke also said running on the sand proved more difficult than running in the mud, and added he was happy to support this event.

Team participant Walter Grey, an ambulance dispatcher for Medical Transport who rounded up four of his friends to participate as a team, said he would take part in the event next year.

"Everyone was great that we tripped over, or who tripped over us," he said. "It was especially great to see all the kids participating."

Duetsch said support from JEBLCFS cemented the event's success, citing numerous commands as integral to the run.

"We could not do this if it was not for the excellent support we get from the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story leadership," Duetsch said. "I especially like to thank EO1 Bryan Steele and the entire Amphibious Construction Battalion 202 for their exceptional support for making the Mud Run such a success."

Duetsch also said volunteer efforts were also appreciated, and contributed to the overall success of the race.

"I also want to thank the hundreds of volunteers who help with set up, race operations, break down and clean up," he said. "They all help make this event a huge success for us which allows us to provide the programs that support our junior military families."

A Family of Nurture, A Family of Nurses

National Nurses Week, May 6-12, is a time when VA recognizes the outstanding work of all our Nurses. This week we shine the light on several of our OEF/OIF Nurses who care for our newest population of Veterans.

Veronica Oliver is one of 13 children. Four of them are nurses. Three of them are Veterans with one brother still on active duty.

As a little girl in that huge family, Veronica would be intrigued by the discipline of her older sister, Melva, and those fascinating nursing books. Melva would study those books while at home even on a school break. What was it with this nursing thing?

Today, because Veronica Oliver has applied that same discipline to an outstanding career at the VA, she is one of the nurses being recognized this year during National Nursing Week.

She was instrumental in developing the "Welcome Call" process at the Durham, NC, VA Medical Center, which was developed in response to Durham's "No Wrong Door" policy.

As part of this policy, the OEF/OIF Care Management team contacts every OEF/OIF Servicemember and Veteran who enters the facility to screen for the need for case management, initiate consultations to specific care paths, and then links the Veteran to correct services.

Veronica was also instrumental in standardizing the case management process at her facility to ensure that nurse case managers and social worker case managers are both following a similar process despite the different skills they bring to the position.

Retired Army Reserves Nurse

Prior to her current position as the Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) Nurse Case Manager at the Durham, NC, VA Medical Center, her background included ambulatory care and inpatient medical surgical nursing.

Veronica Oliver has been a Registered Nurse for 12 years after 10 years of practicing as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She received an Associate Degree in Arts from University of South Carolina and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from South Carolina State University.

She is also a retired Army Reserves Nurse with her last duty station at Womack Army Medical Center in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Veronica has been at the VA for 18 years, having spent five years at the VA Medical Center in Columbia, SC, prior to moving to Durham.

She rates her current job as her favorite. "My best job at the VA has been as OEF/OIF Nurse Case Manager in Social Work Service. I work with an excellent group of people. My supervisor, Toni McCray, and team leader Susan Watkins, have been extremely supportive."

She has two equally important plans for the future. "My professional goals are to complete my Masters of Science in nursing degree and to obtain my certification in case management. My personal goals are simply to spend more time with family and friends." Volunteered to Help in Post-Katrina New Orleans

Her nursing instincts kicked in after the hurricane in New Orleans and is still one of her most valuable memories.

"My time as a VA volunteer in New Orleans is by far the most memorable of my career. There were about 39 people, departing and arriving, in one small three-bedroom house.

"There were people from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, Mississippi and probably other VA facilities. We were a very diverse group of people, multi racial, socioeconomic status, but we all got along together. I am not sure if it was because of the devastation of the city, but it was the best experience one could ever ask for.

"The Veterans we served were also absolutely amazing and so appreciative of our support. The New Orleans' VA staff was outstanding to work alongside.

"I hope Veterans and their families will discover that the VA provides the best care. The VA Medical Centers are truly becoming a Veteran-focused organization and truly has dedicated and committed employees who strive to meet the healthcare needs of the Veterans and their families."

Speaking of families:

Her brother, Mike works at the VA in Denver and is an Iraqi war Veteran.

Her brother, Donald has had multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Her sister Pam is a nurse at the Durham VAMC at Greenville Community Outpatient Clinic.

Her sister Teresa works at Pitt County Memorial Hospital in Greenville, NC, and her sister, Melva, is employed at WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh, NC.

"I think nursing is destiny for me and my family. Caring for our Veterans, and our military background, is apparently in my families' blood."