DHR Newsletter English by Michael Blass

THE SOURCE INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYEES Bavaria Military Community

Directorate of Human Resources, Workforce Development Branch

Volume 5 October 2012 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Page 2: Message from the Garrison Commander Page 3:Message from the IMCOM CG and the CSM Page 4-10: Awards Corner Page 11-16: Hails and Farewells Page 17-31: Training and Education Page 32: Total Army Performance Evaluation System (TAPES) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Important Dates Page 33-42: Civilian Personnel Info Page 43-49: Your Health and Wellness Page 50-53: Customer Service Page 54- 60: Are You in the Know?

Message from the Garrison Commander Fall is here, school is back in session, we are welcoming new units and preparing others to depart – just another eventful season in the Bavaria Military Community! Winter will be upon us soon and I’d like to encourage each of you to take the time now to prepare your vehicles and homes so we can continue to see your smiling faces at work.

COL James E. Saenz Commander, Bavaria Military Community and USAG Grafenwoehr

Each October, in preparation for the annual Association of the United States Army (AUSA) convention, the senior Army leadership across the globe takes the time to reflect and inform others of topics in their respective areas of responsibility. I’d like to share a couple of items discussed recently by Mr. Thomas Lamont, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower & Reserve Affairs, and LTG Ferriter, IMCOM Commanding General.

The Civilian Workforce Transformation (CWT) initiative is designed not only to provide better management of the Army’s civilian workforce from an enterprise perspective, but also to develop a more capable person who is both technically proficient and well-grounded as a leader. The Army needs knowledgeable civilian leaders who are innovative, think creatively and systematically, embrace change, work collaboratively, understand the value and skill of partnering, and are empowered to solve problems. Look for more information in the future about the CWT. Proper training and development for our civilian workforce is critical to ensuring our future success. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of IMCOM. As I have discussed in this forum previously, standardized customer service is one of the Bavaria Military Community’s Keys to Success. Soldiers and families want predictable programs and services. To align these expectations within current and projected funding levels, IMCOM is taking a standardized approach to Common Levels of Support that can be tailored to local communities. Serving our customers, taking care of people, is what we do best and I rely on each of you to assist in informing our customers to help shape their expectations. We are proud of the Soldiers, Civilians, and Families who serve our country, and we are committed to providing them the opportunities and care they deserve. Similarly, I am proud of each of you and appreciate everything you do each day to make the Bavaria Military Community the best community in the Army! 2

The IMCOM Commanding General and Command Sergeant Major have sent the following message for publication to the entire installation management team. The Installation Management Command has the best workforce we have seen in each of our 30-plus years of service. At every installation, base and depot we visit, we are impressed by the spirit, energy and teamwork exhibited by the IMCOM team. We are just as inspired by the dedicated professionals in the IMCOM and region headquarters, who oversee operations that stretch around the globe from Japan and Korea, across the continental United States, to Europe, and even into bases in Afghanistan. Simply said, no one touches our Soldiers, our Army Families and our civilian workforce and retirees like we do-every day.

LTG Michael Ferriter

CSM Earl Rice

In August, we marked the 10th anniversary of the installation management team-first IMA and then IMCOM. That means we have experienced 10 years of evolution in our mission, our workforce and our methods of installation service delivery. Those who have been with the organization all or most of that time know it has been a constant learning experience in a business with really high stakes-the quality of life of our all-volunteer force. Sustaining such a high quality force relies heavily on us, the installation management professionals, succeeding in our mission. The installation management team has performed magnificently this year, just as it has in past years. Our ability to deliver services every day ensures our Soldiers and Families know we care about them and appreciate their service. The entire Army is now affected by force and funding reductions. This means IMCOM will also reshape and reduce in size. This past year we accomplished all of our mandated reductions through voluntary actions. We also retrained and reassigned people within our IMCOM team to allow for personal growth and to keep our team together.

Even as we reduced our numbers, we approved for hire almost 2,000 positions across IMCOM. In fact, many of these are vacant and I invite you to the IMCOM Enterprise Placement Program to see what is there and if there is a position that interests you. For more

information on IEPP

Our workforce development is second to none. Our IMCOM Academy, developmental (&TMC) see page 38. assignments, the mentor program, career program 29, and schools such as the Civilian Education System and the senior service colleges are providing immediate and positive return on investment in shaping our team for the future. As we move into the year ahead, my goal is to create even more certainty for you. I want IMCOM leaders at every level to increase communication to build understanding and certainty for our team. We're getting ready for the next 10 years of world-class installation services, so we need to get it right now. To all of our great civilians: thank you for your dedicated service. Have a super weekend a great week ahead. 3

Awards Corner Civilian of the 3rd Quarter FY12 LT Krantz serves as a MP Desk Supervisor with overall command and control responsibility for all MP Desks. He is responsible for the operational status of all police officers assigned to the shift who are involved in law enforcement, traffic control, investigations, and patrol activities. LT Kranz ensures that assigned personnel properly execute law enforcement duties for the installation with a focus on customer service. Additionally, his duties as a supervisory federal police officer include performing law enforcement duties in an area of exclusive federal jurisdiction. His primary responsibility is to ensure compliance with and enforce a full range of Federal, State, local laws, LT Krantz, Shane L. ordinances, rules, regulations and policies as they Supervisor Police Officer (Desk pertain to law enforcement work and the Sergeant supervision of others engaged in such duties. He possesses arrest/apprehension authority and is required to carry a firearm in the performance of duties. His law enforcement duties are performed on rotating shifts at a major military installation. He attends formal, on the job and in service training to include scheduled qualifications.

Citation on certificate For exceptional service as Desk Operations Division Chief for USAG Grafenwoehr from 1 April 2012 to 30 June 2012. The effort you have placed into programs such as the vehicle safety puppet show for elementary school children, and the personal courage you displayed providing life saving CPR to a child serve to highlight your dedication to providing high quality community oriented policing support. Your superior performance and dedication culminated in your selection as the USAG Grafenwoehr "Civilian of the Quarter" for 3rd quarter 2012.

CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE!

Awards Corner Awards issued 3rd Quarter FY12

USAG Grafenwoehr

• Marian Bass - DOL – Commander’s Award for Civilian Service • Mary E. Cooper - DHR - Superior Civilian Service Award • Michael P. Donahue - DOL - Commander’s Award for Civilian Service • Nicole Y. Heller - ACS - Commander’s Award for Civilian Service • Brian Jansma – DFMWR - Safety Hero Award • Robbie Lowe – DHR - Customer Management Service Award • Sven Markert – ACS – Customer Management Service Award • James McDaniel - ACS – Certificate of Achievement • Bryan McGhee - DHR - Achievement Medal for Civilian Service • Hans Oetter – DOL - Safety Hero Award • Neville Paschall – DFMWR - Safety Hero Award • Primila Rajakulasingham - ACS - Achievement Medal for Civilian Service

BMC Garmisch

• John M. Cavanaugh - USAG Garmisch - Superior Civilian Service Award • Robert L. Laird – USAG Garmisch - Commander’s Award for Civilian Service

USAG Hohenfels

• Wendy Winston - USAG Hohenfels - Commander's Award for Civilian Service

Awards Corner Civilian Awards Ceremony - 17 August 2012 US Army Garrison Grafenwoehr , 69th Signal, and the Joint Multinational Training Command of the 7th US Army were honoring their longtime civilian employees on Friday, 17 August 2012, 13001600hrs at the Tower View Restaurant . 70 US and German employees were honored for their 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, 40- and 45 year commitment to the US Army ( See name list below). Peter Koller, Maintenance Activity, Vilseck, received an award for a maintenance improvement suggestion in his work area.

Awards Corner Civilian Awards Ceremony - 17 Aug 2012 Following employees received an award:

45 years:

• Josef Fraunholz, GTA Training Area Support, Graf, JMTC

40 years:

• Anton Bosser, Safety, USAG Grafenwoehr • Berthold Armann, DOL, Supply & Services, USAG Grafenwoehr • Josef Vogl, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Josef Hermann, S 2/3 Section, Graf, 69th Signal Battalion

35 years:

• Wilfried Haertl, TSAE – Training Support Center, Graf, JMTC • Wolfgang Walberer, GTA Training Area Support, Graf, JMTC • Erhard Haensch, DES, Fire Protect & Prevent Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Anna-Maria Feltner, DOL, Transportation Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Brigitte Rohrer, DPW, Housing, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Karima Uhri, DPW Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Wolfgang Muehlbach, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Eugen Suttner, DAPS – Europe • Hermann Speckner, Maint Div, Graf, HNLFOA • Robert Kederer, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Sigrid Kammerer, CPAC Graf, CHRA-E

30 years:

• Robert J. Parry, JMSC Mission Command Program Div, JMTC • Karl-Heinz Boehm, Organizational Maint Activity, Graf, JMTC • Werner Kroher, GTA Training Area Support, Graf, JMTC • Frederick Roberts, GTA Training Area Support, Graf, JMTC • Manfred Wolf, GTA Training Area Support, Graf, JMTC • Maximilian Weichs, Works Council, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Hendry V. McNair, PAI Office, USAG Grafenwoehr • Michael Saalborn, Safety, USAG Grafenwoehr • Reinhold Bayer, Safety, USAG Grafenwoehr • Norbert Ackermann, DES, Fire Protect & Prevent Div, USAG Grafenwoehr • Heinz Recht, DES, Fire Protection and Prevention Div, USAG Grafenwoehr • Waltraud Schill-Rueckert, MWR, Army Lodging Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Hubert Hoerl, MWR, Information Technology, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Johann Lederer, DOL, Supply & Services Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Heriberto Ilarraza-Cruz, MWR, NAF Central Contracting Branch, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Gerhardt Braun, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, USAG Grafenwoehr

Awards Corner Civilian Awards Ceremony - 17 Aug 2012 30 years (continued):

• Reinhold Meier, DPW, Ops & Main Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Edgar Goss, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, USAG Grafenwoehr • Anton Grimm, US Army Airfield Ops Actvity – Europe • Roland Lebold, Transportation Div, HNLFOA • Georg Trautmann, Transportation Div, HNLFOA • Alexander Pawlow, Movement Control Team, Graf, 39th Movement Control Battalion • Ernst Preissinger, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Guenther Porsch, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Martin Merkl, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Albrecht Kraus, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Rainer Doerner, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Johann Altmann, Maint Activity, Vilseck • Karl-Guenther Fenk, ASP #1, Vilseck • Josef Scharl, ASP #1, Vilseck

25 years:

• Lesa M. Manning, G-2. Security, Graf, JMTC • Anton Braun, DES, Fire Protect & Prevent Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • James E. McDaniel, ACS, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Ronald L. Grantham, DPTMS, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Eric B. Hickman, DOL, Supply & Services Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Alexandra Arnold, DPW, Housing, Eschenbach, USAG Grafenwoehr • Georg Rupprecht, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Herbert Wagner, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Reinhard Leichmann, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Karl Speckner, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Robert Schuller, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Wolfgang Renner, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr • Gerd Ermer, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Georg Rueppel, DPW, Ops & Maint Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Daniela Pacino, Transportation Div, Graf, HNLFOA • Philip Horner, Logistics Div, Vilseck, MEDDAC • Christine Wimmert, Commissary Graf, DECA • Gabriele Brunner, CPAC Graf, CHRA-E • Evelyn Butter, CPAC Graf, CHRA-E

20 years:

• Susanne Bartsch, PAO, Graf, USAG Grafenwoehr

• Vernice B. Campbell, DHR, PSC, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Roy Loredo, Clinical Ops, Vilseck, MEDACC-Bavaria • Timothy R. Labrie, DES, Police/Provost Marshal Div, Vilseck, USAG Grafenwoehr • Rainer Albersdoerfer, Maint Activity, Vilseck

Awards Corner Upcoming Award Nominations

Civilian of the Quarter USAG Grafenwoehr Civilian Awards Program SOP dtd. 29 Nov 2011; The Garrison Civilian of the Quarter Award can be awarded to any deserving employee (AF, NAF, or LN). Nominations consist of the nomination form (see attached), and employee's proposed citation. Only one nomination per directorate will be accepted. Nomination must include the five criteria in order/paragraphs - achievements should only be for the time period of the last quarter. Customer Service Excellence Award USAG Grafenwoehr Civilian Awards Program SOP dtd. 29 Nov 2011; The Garrison will recognize outstanding individuals, teams, agencies or directorates based on the immediate supervisor's recommendation, customer comments regarding service administered and recommendation by the Director. Safety Hero Award USAG Grafenwoehr Accident Prevention Awards; These awards are for individuals and teams/sections. Teams could be a group, section, division, or even directorate that makes a significant contribution to safety. The team awards should not be limited and can be submitted for risk reduction, improvements in program or process, or support of the VPP program. Submit requests for clarification (questions) to the POC(s): Mr. William Whitman at email william.j.whitman.civ@mail.mil; DSN 475-7769, Mr. Michael Saalborn at email michael.saalborn.ln@mail.mil; DSN 475-8832 and Mr. Reinhold Bayer at email reinhold.bayer1.ln@mail.mil; DSN 475-1470.

If you plan to have any of your employees recognized for the 1st Qtr FY 13 awards please provide applicable nomination forms to the DHR awards email address: usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcom.mbx.usag-grafenwoehr-awards-ci@mail.mil no later then 15 January 2013. Information and nomination forms for USAG Grafenwoehr CoQ, CMS and VPP awards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see attached CoQ, CMS, Safety awards nomination forms.pdf;

Awards Corner “Hero of the Day”

• There are great examples of inspired leadership throughout IMCOM and ACSIM—people who show us what right looks like when it comes to supporting our Soldiers, Civilians and Families. • To shine the spotlight on someone who is doing great work, see nomination details in the notes section below.

Name, Organization, Location

Photo Caption, e.g., identifying action in picture or a relevant quote, not smaller than 16 pt Arial

If you know a person or team who demonstrates what right looks like, tell us their story! To nominate someone, please send the following to usarmy.jbsa.imcomhq.mbx.strategiccommunication@mail.mil: -- slide with narrative -- high resolution (300 dpi) photo -- consent and release form for all people in the photo For the narrative, provide the following information in two-three brief paragraphs in the notes section: 1. Why is the person/team being nominated? a. World-class customer service—recognized by their customers for going the extra mile b. Innovation—developing effective new ways of doing things c. Stewardship—realizing notable or sustained savings; using resources sustainably d. Courage—performing an extraordinary act of bravery e. Team building—building and leading high-performing teams; lifting morale; collaborating 2. Details of the nominee’s story: who, what, where, when, how and why. 3. What is the bottom-line impact for Soldiers and Families, OACSIM/IMCOM or the Army? Note on photos: Please send a good photo, since it may be used in several ways in addition to the slide. A head-and-shoulders photo is okay, and also consider a photo that shows some element of the story (e.g., the nominee at work). For more details, please refer to OPORD 12-043 titled: BMC Hero of the Day Program

Hails

Legend - Directorates: DHR – Directorate of Human Resources ACS – Army Community Services DPW – Directorate of Public Works

• Alicia Walker, Human Resources Assistant (Military), DHR, MPD • Cheryl Wehner, Suicide Prevention Program Manager, DHR, ASAP • Elizabeth Pardo, Social Worker (Substance Abuse), DHR, ASAP • Natasha Riddle, Social Services Assistant, DHR, ASAP • Brian Raymond, Human Resource Specialist (Military), DHR, MPD • Richard Behe, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Iris Quinones, Human Resources Assistant, DHR, MPD Legend - Divisions: • Mark Forrester, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, ASAP – Army Substance DHR, PSC RB Abuse Program • Madelene Celestine, EFMP Coordinator, ACS MPD – Military Personnel Division • Joseph Baltar, Program Manager, DPW PSC RB – Postal Service • Kent Thompson, Financial Readiness Manager, ACS. Mr. Thompson came Center Rose Barracks to us on 23 Sep 12 from ACS in Ft. Drum, NY. • Tara Montoya, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Vera Wilson Medina, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Christa Burnett, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Aubrey Wheeler, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Konamre RSHL HGN ‘OGLSB’ Cherry, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Claudia Castaneda, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Allen Hebert, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Daniel Hoffman, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Sarah Clum, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC • Sherry Hicks, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC • Colleen Goode, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13 , DHR, PSC • Anthony Ajaero, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC RB • Donald Kellum, Postal Operations Assistant, Temp NTE 30 Sep 13, DHR, PSC

Her innovative way of working, her ability to motivate her staff, her business case approach, and above all her persuasive leadership style is certainly a model for all Army Civilians. Her popularity was evident by a crowd of over hundred Garrison members and friends of the Cooper family attending her farewell in the evening of 17 September 2012. During the dinner, pictures that were collected over the past few years, were shown in the background. This was followed by several farewell speeches of the Garrison Commander, the Deputy Garrison Commander as well as the DHR division chiefs. As a grand final the DHR employees performed a special farewell song based on a melody from ‘The sound of music’, one of Ms. Cooper’s favorite movies. For many people Ms. Cooper was not just a boss, she was also a mentor, a tutor and an inspirer and she truly will be missed by the DHR folks and the entire Grafenwoehr Community.

On 17 September, the DHR staff had to say goodbye to their much valued Director, Ms. Mary E. Cooper. Ms. Cooper was assigned as Director of Human Resources on 8 January 2007. In her five years of leadership she provided commendable service to the US Army Garrison Grafenwoehr and especially to the DHR. She was known for her dedication to work, her preciseness, and her passion for the US Army. Her initiative and professionalism made her a great role model for the entire community. Prior to her tenure as the Director of Human Resources, Ms. Cooper had already spent four years in the country as an Adjutant General Officer before she changed over to the civilian life. When Ms. Cooper began her work as the DHR in 2007, she found a competent DHR workforce and transformed it into an organization which is recognized as one of the best HR staff in Europe.

Mary E. Cooper was presented the Superior Civilian Service Award For exceptionally superior service as Director, Human Resources for the United States Army Garrison Grafenwoehr from July 2007 through September 2012. Her ability to inspire and motivate the human resources staff entrusted to her ensured quality human resources services to Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members throughout the Grafenwoehr Garrison. Her hard work and dedication as a senior leader in the Grafenwoehr Garrison was a driving force to accomplish the mission during a challenging time of unprecedented growth, transformation, and restructuring. Ms. Cooperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unparalleled leadership, professionalism, and commitment resulted in many positive and lasting impacts for the community and brought great credit upon her, the United States Army Garrison Grafenwoehr, the United States Army Installation Management Command, and the United States Army.

Farewells • Robin Blair-Johnson, Casualty Assistant, DHR, MPD. Ms. Blair-Johnson curtailed her tour and PCS’d to Ft. Belvoir on 1 July 2012. • Liz Suarez, Human Resources Assistant (MIL), DHR, MPD. Ms. Suarez took TLWOP to PCS with her spouse on 8 July 2012. • Primila Rajakulasingham, Financial Readiness Program Manager, ACS. Mrs. Rahajulasingham took TLWOP and PCSd with her spouse on 13 July 2012. • Anton Bosser, Safety Technician, Installation Safety Office. Mr. Bosser retired on 30 July 12. • Bryan McGhee, Human Resources Assistant (Military), DHR, MPD. Mr. McGhee left USAG Grafenwoehr on 18 August 2012 for an instructor position at Vilseck High School. • Marian Bass, Cook Leader, DOL. Ms. Bass exercised her return rights on 1 September 2012 to Ft. Gordon, GA. • Mike Donahue, Supply Management Specialist, DOL. Mr. Donahue exercised his return rights to Rock Island, IL on 8 September 2012. • Amber Smith, Postal Operations Assistant, DHR, PSC RB. Ms. Smith accepted a position at DoDEA effective 8 September 2012.

Legend - Directorates:

Legend - Divisions:

DHR – Directorate of Human Resources ACS – Army Community Services DOL – Directorate of Logistics

MPD – Military Personnel Division PSC EC – Postal Service Center East Camp

15 Hails

• Riggs, Maureen, Deputy Garrison Manager, Command Group – Ms. Riggs took over as Deputy Garrison Manager for BMC Garmisch on 27 July 12. Ms. Riggs graduated from the Army War College in June and has served in senior DF&MWR positions at IMCOM Headquarters and IMCOM Garrisons. As Deputy Garrison Manager for Garmisch, Ms. Riggs is leading BMC Garmisch thru the transitions from a garrison to a satellite installation.

Legend - Directorates: PAO – Public Affairs Office DF&MWR – Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare & Recreation

Legend - Divisions: CYSS – Child, Youth and School Services

Farewells

• John Cavanaugh, Garrison Manager, Command Group – Mr. Cavanaugh returned to USAG Hohenfels as the Director of Plans, Training and Mobility on 27 July 2012. Mr. Cavanaugh served as the Garrison Manager, Garmisch from 8 November 2011 following the retirement of Ms. Karin Santos. Over the past nine months, Mr. Cavanaugh successfully guided Garmisch through the most significant restructuring initiative faced by the garrison in over two decades. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Cavanaugh built and solidified relations with the local workforce, the host nation and US tenant units. • William John Reese, Public Affair Specialist, PAO – Mr. Reese returned to USAG Hawaii on 21 July 12. Mr. Reese published numerous articles on local events, programs and activities, some of which were covered in the international press; he also implemented a full PAO program in Garmisch, addressing frequent requests for information from the local press and guiding the garrison through numerous force protection exercises and events. • Jerilyn Yingling, Library Technician, DF&MWR - Ms. Yingling PCS'd to Colorado ahead of her husband who will shortly retire from the Marshall Center. • Stacy Romleski, School-Age Center Director CYSS, DF&MWR - Ms. Romleski returned to Kaiserslautern her previous duty station.

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Hails

• John Cavanaugh, Director, DPTMS. Mr. Cavanaugh rejoined USAG Hohenfels on 29 July 2012 after a temporary assignment at Garmisch as Garrison Manager.

Farewells

Legend - Directorates: DPTMS – Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization & Security RSO – Religious Services Office DOL – Directorate of Logistics DPW – Directorate of Public Works DHR – Directorate of Human Resources ACS – Army Community Service

• Rita Binns, Administrative Assistant, RSO. Ms. Binns PCS’d on 10 July 12. • Jeffrey Heath, General Engineer, DPW. Mr. Heath PCS’d to DPW Legend - Divisions: Grafenwoehr on 16 July 12. MPD – Military Personnel Division • Jose Gastelu, Human Resources Assistant (MIL), DHR. Mr. Gastelu PSC – Postal Service Center PCS’d to JRMC Hohenfels on 29 July 12. • Jeremy Carney, Postal Assistant, DHR, PSC. Mr. Carney PCS’d to the states on 29 July 12. • Kurt Rager, Relocation Program Mgr, ACS. Mr. Rager PCS’d to the states on 29 July 12. • Winfried Guttenberger, Motor Vehicle Operator, DOL. Mr. Guttenberger took an annulment contract effective 31 July 12. • Irene Toliver, Food Services Operator Technician, DOL. Ms. Toliver retired on 31 July 12. • Joe Moreno, Material Handler, DOL. Mr. Moreno retired on 30 August 12. • Thomas, Kleilein, Supply Technician, DOL. Mr. Kleilein took an annulment contract effective 31 August 12. • Josef Moser, Material Handler, DPW. Mr. Moser took an annulment contract effective 31 August 12. • Madelene Celestine, EFMP Manager, ACS. Ms. Celestine PCS’d to ACS Grafenwoehr on 22 September 2012. • Tony Chestnut, Operations Specialist, DPTMS. His temporary contract expired on 30 September 12. • Lawrence Fonville, Operations Specialist, DPTMS. Mr. Fonville’s temporary contract expired and he PCS’d to Red River Army Depot, TX on 30 September 12. • John Harshaw, Operations Specialist, DPTMS. His temporary contract expired and he retired on 30 Sep 12. • Wolfgang Meissner, Supervisory Electrical Engineer, DPW. Mr. Meissner took an annulment contract effective 30 September 12. • Ernest Parlin, Operations Specialist, DPTMS. Mr. Parlin’s temporary contract expired on 30 September 12. • Julia Roggenhofer, Scheduling Assistant, DPW. She took an annulment contract effective 30 September 12. • Ottfried Schmidt, Public Utilities Specialist, DPW. He separated from USAG Hohenfels on 30 September 12. • Julio Young, Operations Specialist, DPTMS. Mr. Young’s temporary contract expired on 30 September 12. • James Thompson, Supply Tech, DOL. Mr. Thompson’s temporary contract expired on 30 Sep 12. • Josef Lautenschlager, IT Specialist, DPW. Mr. Lautenschlager PCS’d to DPW Grafenwoehr on 30 Sep 12. •Christian Wein, Engineering Technician, DPW. Mr. Wein PCS’d to DPW Grafenwoehr on 30 Sep 12.

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CES Graduate Corner “The Intermediate course not only provides exercises to interact with other students, but offers info you can use in your personal life as well. It is a continuation of the information learned in the Basic course while including more self-paced exercises and increased networking capabilities. I recommend anyone able to attend the Intermediate course take the opportunity to not only learn something new about yourself, but increase your contact list across the globe”.

“I would highly recommend attending the Civilian Leader Basic Course. The classes were informative and relevant to our workplaces. There were participants from all over the world including Japan, Korea, Italy, Germany, Hawaii, and Alaska. The discussions were stimulating and the assignments were challenging... and the barbeque food in Kansas City is exceptional!"

“I attended the CES Basic Course in Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas from 10 - 21 September 2012 and my experience was more than positive. I would recommend this course to any and every one as it is something you wouldn’t expect. The instructors challenged you to use our mind in every aspect. While attending this course I learned various different things that I was able to take back to my organization and let me grow as a leader. Some of these included: Team Building, Time Management, how to look at problems in different ways (“out of the box thinking”), and a lot of public speaking”. “I also met some very good friends there that I hope to stay in contact with and maybe meet some of them again when attending the CES Intermediate Course”.

CES Graduate Corner “I attended the CES Basic Course from 18 – 29 June 2012. The course was well worth going to. Essentially they placed 14 attendees in the same room that had never met before and showed us that we could get along and work together for two weeks. We were to come up with ideas on different projects and present them to the class. Some of them were short notice and some took a few days. As a result, these activities showed me that I could do anything I set my mind to. Since I took this course, I can get up in front of people and give a class. I also share my ideas with my co-workers in order to make our job easier for all concerned. You will come back with a better look on life and on the work place. Also this course will help you in your family life. I would highly recommend and encourage those who have never attended one of these courses to make it a point to attend. Thanks to all those who made this course possible. I am so ready to go to the next one. LET’S GO!!!!!”

“The three week course was very knowledgeable and interesting, for my leadership skills it was also very challenging. Working in groups, we depended on each other to succeed in the tasks and all of our time and efforts were required. I learned a lot about the Individual Development Plan (IDP). The IDP is not a commonly used tool amongst LN’s. When it came to rating my classmates, I had to learn a lot about the IDP before I could use it. Creative, critical thinking, problem-solving, flexibility, and strength are the skills I have learned from the Basic and Intermediate course and how they can be applied in today's working world. Researching was a skill that I learned very quickly in this course, since all tasks required thorough research, before we could present anything to the Instructors or in other seminars. The Intermediate Course has helped me develop a clearer definition of my thoughts on leadership and to work with others as a member of a team”.

CES Graduate Corner This two week course provided multiple training opportunities that was nothing but excellent. Between the team leadership exercises and communication workshops, I was able to bond from Army Professionals from across the globe. The training styles presented throughout the course was incredibly unique and challenged your presumptions in everyday life and work. I felt extremely lucky and blessed that this opportunity was presented to me. I recommend this course to all employees who want to be promoted through the ranks of Army Civilians. The Intermediate Course awaits me!

The Intermediate course was an outstanding experience that provided me an opportunity to learn, grow and develop both professionally and personally. The learning experience included instructor facilitation, peer to peer discussion and team projects, all of which have added to what I can bring to the organization as an individual and team member. I highly recommend that when the opportunity arise this should be on your "Need to Attend" list.

Civilian Education System (CES)

Are you aware CES has changed?

Department of the Army released ALARACT 121/2012 in Apr 12 updating CES policy as follows: CES course attendance is now targeted towards specific civilian grades and employees will now attend the CES course targeted for their current grade. Civilians may not enroll in a course that is higher than their current grade but may enroll in a course targeted for a lower grade. The CES courses and grade targets are: Foundation course (FC) GS01 – 15 (mandatory for employees with hire date after 30 Sep 06) Basic Course (BC) GS01 – 09, NAF 01 – 03, C1 – C6A Intermediate Course (IC) GS10 – 12, NAF 04, C7 – C7A Advanced Course (AC) GS13 – 15, NAF 05, C8 Cont. Education (CESL) GS14 – 15, NAF 5 Also, the 10-year rule for equivalent course credit has been rescinded. Employees who have completed specific TRADOC approved Professional Military Education (PME) or Legacy Civilian Leader Development Courses at any time in the past will have met the requirement for their target CES course. Civilians may view their eligibility profile and register for a CES course at this link: https://www.atrrs.army.mil/channels/chrtas/student/main.aspx First time users must create a student profile to have access to their information or to register for a course. For more information call Mr. Johann Dumbach, Workforce Development Specialist, DHR, DSN 47520 6753, email: johann.dumbach.ln@mail.mil

Civilian Education System (CES) Basic Course (BC) is designed to provide students an understanding of how to effectively lead and care for teams. This course is a combination of DL and 2 weeks of resident instruction. Students who successfully complete this course will understand and apply basic leadership skills to lead and care for small teams, apply effective communication skills to build a team, demonstrate internal and external situational awareness, direct teams accordingly and develop and mentor subordinates.

Basic Course (BC) 1-250-C60, Phase 2, FY 13 Schedule Class Number 13-003 13-703 13-004 13-005 13-006 13-007 13-704 13-008 13-705 13-706 13-501 13-707 13-708 13-010 13-709 13-011 13-710 13-502 13-711 13-503 13-712 13-713 13-014 13-714 13-504 13-715

Start Date

End Date

03 DEC12 03 DEC 12 07 JAN 13 28 JAN13 25 FEB 13 18 MAR 13 18 MAR 13 08 APR 13 08 APR 13 08 APR 13 06 MAY 13 06 MAY 13 06 MAY 13 03 JUN 13 03 JUN 13 17 JUN 13 17 JUN 13 08 JUL 13 08 JUL 13 29 JUL 13 29 JUL 13 29 JUL 13 19 AUG 13 19 AUG 13 16 SEP 13 16 SEP 13

14 DEC 12 14 DEC 12 18 JAN 13 08 FEB 13 08 MAR 13 29 MAR 13 29 MAR 13 19 APR 13 19 APR 13 19 APR 13 17 MAY 13 17 MAY 13 17 MAY 13 14 JUN 13 14 JUN 13 28 JUN 13 28 JUN 13 19 JUL 13 19 JUL 13 09 AUG 13 09 AUG 13 09 AUG 13 30 AUG 13 30 AUG 13 27 SEP 13 27 SEP 13

Application Deadline 03 OCT 12 03 OCT 12 07 NOV 12 28 NOV 12 26 DEC 12 16 JAN 13 16 JAN 13 06 FEB 13 06 FEB 13 06 FEB 13 06 MAR 13 06 MAR 13 06 MAR 13 03 APR 13 03 APR 13 17 APR 13 17 APR 13 08 MAY 13 08 MAY 13 29 MAY 13 29 MAY 13 29 MAY 13 19 JUN 13 19 JUN 13 10 JUL13 10 JUL 13

Location Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Stewart, GA (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth , KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Sam Houston, TX (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Belvoir, VA (Local Students Only) APG, MD (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Redstone Arsenal, AL (Local Students Only) Fort Carson (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Sam Houston, TX (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Redstone Arsenal, AL (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS USAR Korea (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Belvoir, VA (Local Students Only) TACOM, MI (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS USARPAC, HI (Local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Sam Houston, TX (Local Students Only)

Civilian Education System (CES) Intermediate Course (IC) is designed for Army Civilians to prepare them for increasing responsibilities to exercise direct and indirect supervision. Students enhance their leadership abilities and develop skills to manage human and financial resources, displaying flexibility and resilience with a focus on the mission. This course is a combination of DL and 3 weeks of resident instruction. Students who successfully complete this course will be skilled in leading people, developing cohesive and efficient organizations, managing resources, implementing change, while demonstrating effective thinking and communication skills.

Intermediate Course (IC) 1-250-C61, Phase 2, FY 13 Schedule Class Number

Start Date

End Date

Application Deadline

13-003

28 JAN 13

15 FEB 13

21 NOV 12

13-004

25 FEB 13

15 MAR 13

26 DEC 12

13-005

18 MAR 13

05 APR 13

16 JAN 13

13-006

15 APR 13

03 MAY 13

13 FEB 13

13-007

06 MAY 13

24 MAY 13

06 MAR 13

13-701

06 MAY 13

24 MAY 13

06 MAR 13

13-008

10 JUN 13

28 JUN 13

28 MAR 13

13-009

15 JUL 13

02 AUG 13

08 MAY 13

13-702

15 JUL 13

02 AUG 13

08 MAY 13

13-010

12 AUG 13

30 AUG 13

12 JUN 13

13-011

09 SEP13

27 SEP 13

10 JUL 13

13-703

09 SEP 13

27 SEP 13

10 JUL 13

Location Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Wiesbaden, Germany Fort Leavenworth , KS Fort Leavenworth, KS Redstone Arsenal, AL (local Students Only) Fort Leavenworth, KS Fort Leavenworth, KS APG, MD (Local Students Only)

Civilian Education System (CES) Advanced Course (AC) is designed for Civilian leaders who exercise predominately indirect supervision. This course is a combination of DL and 4 weeks of resident instruction at AMSC Fort Belvoir, Virginia, campus. Students who successfully complete this course will be skilled in leading a complex organization in support of national security and defense strategies, integrating Army and Joint systems in support of the Joint Force, inspiring vision and creativity implementing change and managing programs.

Advanced Course (AC) 1-250-C62, Phase 2, FY 13 Schedule Class Number

Start Date

End Date

Application Deadline

Location

13-003

14 JAN 13

08 FEB 13

14 NOV 12

Fort Leavenworth, KS

13-004

25 FEB 13

22 MAR 13

26 DEC 12

Fort Leavenworth, KS

13-005

08 APR 13

03 MAY 13

06 FEB 13

Fort Leavenworth, KS

13-006

03 JUN 13

28 JUN 13

20 MAR 13

Fort Leavenworth, KS

13-007

15 JUL 13

09 AUG 13

08 MAY 13

Fort Leavenworth, KS

13-008

19 AUG 13

13 SEP 13

19 JUN 13

Fort Leavenworth, KS

Continuing Education for Senior Leaders (CESL) 1-250-C63, Phase 2, FY 13 Schedule Class Number

Start Date

End Date

Application Deadline

Location

13-002

07 JAN 13

11 JAN 13

07 NOV 12

Fort Belvoir, VA (Open Enrollment)

13-003

13 MAY 13

17 MAY 13

13 MAR 13

Fort Leavenworth, KS (Open Enrollment)

13-004

19 AUG 13

23 AUG 13

19 JUN 13

Fort Belvoir , VA (Open Enrollment)

Cost Management Certificate Course (CMCC) Description: The CMCC is an intense four-week resident graduate education course that is taught at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, California (http://www.nps.edu/). This course is designed to teach students how to manage Army business operations efficiently and effectively through the accurate measurement and through understanding of the “Full Cost” of business processes, products, and services. Certificate holders will become part of a community of practice equipped to help decision makers provide the best value to customers and stakeholders; successful participants earn 12 graduate credits.

NPS will send the reading material for prework to the student (at their home via FedEx) about four weeks prior to the beginning of class. User names and passwords will be provided by NPS for those who are selected to attend. Prospective Candidates: Candidates should come from both military and civilian ranks; all branches and all career programs. A baccalaureate degree is required by NPS (to comply with its academic certification) and cannot be waived.

Military: Officer: Major and above Enlisted: Master Sergeant Civilian: GS 13 and above NSPS Pay Bands 2 and 3

Prerequisites: Bachelor Degree Three years of government service

Who should attend? See the USA’s memo: https://www.us.army.mil/suite/files/23833350 . Army commands should send their brightest and best to this course – who exactly is sent depends on what the command desires the certificate holder to do after the course concludes. Commanders should discuss expectations with prospective students once they have been through the HQDA selection process. Commanders will ensure return on investment by holding those who successfully complete the course accountable for performance and results.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) classes Have you already signed up?

NOV 12: Title: Civilian Wellness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Recipe for a Healthy Relationship with Andrea Meyering & Elias Barnes Date: 1 November 12, 1000-1100hrs (EC) & 1300-1400hrs (RB) Location: East Camp, Building 621, Room 215 & Rose Barracks, Building 226, 1st Floor, Conference Room Title: Testing Designated Position (TDP) Class Date: 29 November 12, 1000-1130hrs Location: East Camp, Building 621, 1st Floor

To register for a class, contact ASAP at 475-5122.

DEC 12:

Title: Workplace Violence: What You Need to Know! Date: 20 December 12, 1000-1130hrs Location: East Camp, Building 621, Room 215

The Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Schedule of Events Date

Subject

Time

Location

30 Oct 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

30 Oct 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

31 Oct 12

Federal Resumes: Writing & Research

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

31 Oct 12

Federal Resumes: Writing & Research

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

6-7 Nov 12

Dept. of Labor Employment Workshop

0830-1600

RB, Bldg. 378 (CATC)

13 Nov 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

13 Nov 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

14 Nov 12

VA Benefits

0830-1230

RB, Bldg. 134 (MPR)

14 Nov 12

Disability Transition Assistance

1330-1530

RB, Bldg. 134 (MPR)

15 Nov 12

VA Benefits

0830-1230

EC, Bldg. 445 (Library)

15 Nov 12

Disability Transition Assistance

1330-1530

EC, Bldg. 445 (Library)

15 Nov 12

Interview Preparation

1000-1200

RB, Bldg. 273

20 Nov 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

20 Nov 12

USA Jobs: Intro to the Federal System

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

21 Nov 12

Federal Resumes: Writing & Research

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

21 Nov 12

Federal Resumes: Writing & Research

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

27-29 Nov 12

Dept. of Labor Employment Workshop

0830-1600

RB, Bldg. 134 (MPR)

27 Nov 12

Targeted Resume Review

1000-1200

RB, Bldg. 273

29 Nov 12

Online Career Research

0900-1200

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

29 Nov 12

Online Career Research

1300-1600

RB, Bldg. 355 (CATC)

Contact ACAP for their December 2012 schedule. 26

The Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Class Descriptions Department of Labor Employment Workshop (TAP): An overview of the civilian job search process including Self Assessment; planning; resume writing; job search strategies; networking; interviewing skills & negotiating job offers. VA Benefits Briefing: A brief on the benefits available to separating service members including VonAPP, eBenefits and MyHealtheVet. VA Disabled Transition Assistance Program: A brief on the educational and vocational support available to separating service members to include a presentation on the VAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program. Targeted Resume Review: Follow-up to the Department of Labor Employment Workshop (TAP). On day 2 you wrote your resume; attend this class to learn how to target your resume specifically to individual position descriptions. USAJobs: Intro to the Federal System: Interview Preparation; Hone your interview skills and develop accomplishment stories to manage interview momentum. Entrepreneurship 101: There is no one right way to succeed in business. You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. It is a long and possibly expensive journey, but with perseverance and guidance, you can make it happen. Federal Writing & Research: Follow-up to the USAJobs class. A self-paced class to work on federal resumes and research with instructor support. Online Career Research: Learn how to use the following websites to research potential careers: H2H, TurboTap, USAJobs, GlassDoor.com, and State DOL sites. Corporate Etiquette: Business professionals are expected to understand etiquette and professional protocol, and while the standards have changed over the past century, there are still many rules of common professional manners. Preparing for Job Fairs: Tips on navigating the job fair experience to include the type of resume to bring, how to dress and what to focus on in the few minutes you have with each corporate employer.

To get an account or to register for a class contact the Vilseck ACAP Center, Rose Barracks, Bldg. 273 at 4762055/6 or acap.vilseck@serco-na.com.

OPEX - Excellence Customer Service Training FY 2012 • DATES: 8 November 2012 – 6 December 2012 • Location: Building 209, Tower View Conference Center – East Camp • Time: 0800-1600hrs

• To sign up or for more information contact: Tonia Ramer at DSN: 476-3392

**********************************

WHO: USAG Grafenwoehr Directorates: Family and MWR and Human Resources (DHR) WHAT: MWR Operation Excellence (OPEX) Customer Service Training WHEN & WHERE: Monthly at the Tower View Conference Center, Grafenwoehr, Bldg. 209 SIGNIFICANCE: Family and MWR and DHR partnered to deliver OPEX Training to the garrison workforce. Over 500 employees have been trained in the last year.

Operation Excellence Training

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ARMY Continuing Education System â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ACES POINTS OF CONTACT Rose Barracks Vilseck Education Center, Bldg. 223, DSN 476-2653/2753 Website: http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/support/education.asp East Camp (Grafenwoehr) Army Education Center, Bldg. 538, DSN 475-6219/6786 Website: http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/support/education.asp Hohenfels Army Education Center, Bldg. 351, DSN 466-2882 Website: http://www.hohenfels.army.mil/sites/directorates/dhr.asp Garmisch Army Education Center, Bldg. 203, DSN 440-3560 Information can be found at: http://www.garmisch.army.mil/Directorates/H%20R/education.asp Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/USAG.Graf.Ed.Ctrs

Great Study Tool Suggestions http://books.google.de/books/about/Study_Skills_For_Dummies.html?id=7Cjgn3-YsjEC&redir_esc=y http://psychology.about.com/od/educationalpsychology/tp/effective-learning.htm http://www.collegetips.com/college-classes/study-skills.php http://studenthacks.org/2007/10/12/study-effectively/ 29 http://www.physics.usyd.edu.au/pdfs/current/StudyEffectively.pdf

ARMY Continuing Education System – ACES For Information About On-post College Programs:

Undergraduate Programs Website: http://www.europe.ctcd.edu/ Email: Grafenwoehr@europe.ctcd.edu DSN: 475-6702/ 476-2362

Undergraduate and Graduate Programs Website: http://www.ed.umuc.edu/ Email: graf@europe.umuc.edu DSN: 475-6106/ 476-2462

Graduate Programs Website: http://www.phoenix.edu/content/altcloud/en/colleges _divisions/military-overseas/europe.html Email: Grafenwoehr.campus@phoenix.edu

Graduate Programs Website: http://www.goou.ou.edu/ Email: apvilseck@ou.edu DSN: 475-7079 or 476-2069

LN’s have to take a different route for taking classes. If you (LN) are interested in taking courses with above institutions contact Workforce Development at DSN 475-6753 or 4758866. 30

ARMY Continuing Education System ACES Did you know there is a National Test Center (NTC) at the Rose Barracks Education Center? University of Maryland University College Europe, at the Rose Barracks Education Center (Bldg 223), offers computer-based, on-site testing services to military and eligible civilians, making it easy to earn certifications and earn college credits quickly and affordably. Take your CLEP, DSST, GMAT and Pearson VUE - exams at the National Test Center (NTC). For more information email: sanderson@europe.umuc.edu or call DSN476-2462, CIV 09662-832462. CLEP Test Receive college credit by earning qualifying scores on any of 34 examinations. Disciplines include composition, literature, foreign languages, history, social sciences, science, mathematics, and business. CLEP Web site: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/exams.html DSST Test College credit is available in 37 unique subjects. Disciplines include business, humanities, mathematics, physical science, and more. DSST Web site: www.getcollegecredit.com/resources Pearson - VUE Tests Many professional licensures and certifications are available with a wide variety of information technology (IT) examinations to include Cisco, Linux, Novell, and CompTIA. Pearson VUE Web site: www.vue.com/military/exams

National Testing Center (NTC) Relocation News The NTC will soon relocate to building 163 while renovations are being made at the Rose Barracks Education Center, building 223. The date for the move has yet to be determined. It is highly recommended that persons interested in testing routinely contact the NTC at DSN 476-2462 for the latest info.

NTC Brochure A summary of examinations and testing is available

The TAPES rating period for U.S. appropriated fund employees in grades GS/WS 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 ends 31 October 2012. Employees who have been under an approved performance plan for at least 120 days must provide their raters with a completed DA Form 7221-1. Your support form 7221-1 has to be signed by the rated employee, rater, senior rater and be dated . Date has to reflect 120 days from the date of the senior raterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature.

Click below link to find out how to complete and submit your appraisal: https://cpolrhp.cpol.army.mil/eur/management/awards/CHRAE%20Quick%20Appraisal%20Instruction.pdf. For more detailed information on TAPES please refer to: http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/directorates/wfd-tapes.asp

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Civilian Personnel Info

R3 Information

Restructure, Reshape, RIF

By Ulrike Pfosch

In times of fiscal restraint, the Army is taking a very close look at how to improve business practices and how to better streamline its resources, while keeping up the same high level of customer service. As we continue to face the fiscal challenges, all Army Garrisons are required to reduce manpower and become more efficient in delivering services to their customers. The Bavaria Military Community’s Fiscal Year 13 share of these losses was 260 positions (79 US, 178 Local National, 3 Military).  Fortunately, the cuts were anticipated by the garrison, and a very strict hiring practice, over the past 2 years, ensured that only mission critical positions were backfilled. Most positions that were vacated through attrition were never backfilled, in order to soften the blow on the workforce once the reductions were implemented. The Bavaria Military Community’s hiring practice was very successful. The loss of 79 US positions • 32 USAG Grafenwoehr • 29 USAG Hohenfels • 18 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Community did not result in a RIF, because all remaining incumbents:  could be placed in valid authorized positions  were able to exercise their re-employment rights to their CONUS positions  were put on PPP - or  are able to seek stateside employment through the IMCOM Enterprise Placement Program Portal

Respect our People - Respect the Process

3 3

Civilian Personnel Info

R3 Information

Restructure, Reshape, RIF

By Ulrike Pfosch

For several of our Local National employees we also have a success story to tell. A total of 178 LN positions were lost • 99 USAG Grafenwoehr • 58 USAG Hohenfels • 21 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Community  However, due to the many vacancies, only 26 LN employees actually received termination notices on 31 August 2012. • 14 USAG Grafenwoehr • 10 USAG Hohenfels • 2 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Community  Since then, we could further reduce this number and place 7 more employees in vacant positions. So, currently only 19 LN employees • 9 USAG Grafenwoehr • 8 USAG Hohenfels • 2 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Community are still facing termination. A tremendous help in achieving the placement of surplus employees continues to be the LN Annulment Program. This program pays incentives to qualifying LNs that are willing and able to terminate their employment. Positions vacated with the help of annulment contracts have been used to: • serve as a bill payer for position reductions • restructure and reshape the workforce • place current RIF candidates

Respect our People - Respect the Process

3 4

Civilian Personnel Info

R3 Information

Restructure, Reshape, RIF

by Ulrike Pfosch

The Bavaria Military Community is very positive that, with the help of the Annulment Contract Program, several more RIF candidates can be placed in valid positions before the 31 March 2013 termination notice end date. The Bavaria Military Community will continue to support as many annulment requests as possible. Therefore, all LN employees, interested in an annulment contract, should contact their local Civilian Personnel Office in order to receive more information.

Current Local National Job Situation Location

Jun 12 Works Council rec’d RIF packages for LNs

1 Jun 12 – 31 Aug 12 # of LNs placed

31 Aug 12 # of LNs rec’d notice

Since 31 Aug 12 # of LNs placed

To date # of LNs with valid notices

Grafenwoe hr

Hohenfels

Garmisch

Based on ongoing negotiations for further annulment contracts the # of personnel to be released on 31 March 2013 may further be reduced.

Respect our People - Respect the Process

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Civilian Personnel Info

With CPD memorandum dated 7 Nov 2011 the HQ, USAREUR policy on annulment contracts was revised. As before annulment contracts have to be approved by the Commander and CPD. It is a tool to restructure the workforce especially in the light of recent announcements to downsize and even close garrisons. Thus employees also have a choice to end their employment before. This can become true when LNs find other employment or may proceed into early retirement. In latter case there will also be additional payments should the pension/group life insurance be reduced. That way the employer may save salary dollars or give younger employees the opportunity for continued employment. Indemnities may never exceed employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s payments in case of further employment.

Annulment contracts including SSA by the Federal Republic of Germany are only possible with LN employees when they are facing termination thru an organizational decision after the Head Works Council has cooperated in this action and SSA has been confirmed by the FRG. In these cases SSA is paid before the organizational date only when the employee holds a new job that is subject to unemployment insurance deductions. If interested please make an appointment with your servicing CPAC specialist, Mr. Alois Farnbauer (475-6729) or Mr. Waldemar Haibach (475-7464).

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Civilian Personnel Info

Army Civilian Record Brief (CRB)

IMCOM Enterprise Placement Program (IEPP)

3 7

Civilian Personnel Info

Employment Opportunities IMCOM Talent Management Center (TMC) As an alternative to competitive vacancy announcements (through USA Jobs), the Talent Management Center posts selected IMCOM enterpriseâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;wide key leader positions. Applicants must be at the same grade as the position they are applying for or have previously held that grade for a minimum of one year. TMC managed positions are listed in AKO at https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/663500. This link also provides detailed application instructions and application windows. Current IMCOM employees eligible for non-competitive permanent placement may apply (Directors and above positions). Selection is made on a monthly basis by an Executive Council.

IMCOM Enterprise Placement Program (IEPP) IEPP is a similar process for lower graded positions and serves as a placement tool for IMCOM Employees who are likely to be affected adversely by imposed structure changes. Vacancy announcements range from GS-7 firefighters to GS-13 Attorney Adviser and comprise GS, WG and NAF positions. New positions are added on a weekly basis (portal will be unavailable every Monday for update). Key is that applicants may not result in a promotion. Applicants should apply for vacancy announcements that lead to a reassignment or voluntary change to a lower grade. This link will take you to the portal: https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/662838. 3 8

Civilian Personnel Info

!!!!HOT NEWS!!! eOPF was released effective 16 Oct 12 What is eOPF?

The electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) is the electronic version of your hardcopy employee official personnel folder, the official record of your Federal work career. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is leading a massive project to convert our paper personnel documents into an electronic format for easier access and management of our records through the use of Government computers. The eOPF system contains your personnel documents in a secure environment, allowing you immediate access and capability to search for documents located in your record.

What are some of the features of this new eOPF system?

eOPF allows each employee to have electronic access to their own personnel folder. Some unique system features include: - provides secure access to employment documents/official forms and information to a geographically dispersed workforce, - supports a secure environment, -eliminates even minimal risk of loss of an employee's official personnel folder during filing and/or routing , -reduces costs associated with storage, maintenance, and retrieval of records, - complies with OPM and federally mandated HR employee record management regulations , and -delivers system generated email notifications to employees. 3 9

Civilian Personnel Info

!!!!HOT NEWS!!! eOPF was released effective 16 Oct 12 Employees supported by CPACs and NAF Human Resources Offices (HROs) in Europe, Korea, and Japan are able to access their electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) records. This new and exciting way of doing business allows real time, online availability to your personnel records.

**** Logging into eOPF**** By following a step-by-step process to log into the eOPF system, you will be able to view your individual Federal employment records. These access instructions are found in the eOPF Quick Reference Guide for Employees - Self Service Login and Password Retrieval for New Users or the Trifold Brochure for Employees at: http://cpol.army.mil/library/general/eOPF/. AF and NAF employees can gain access to eOPF by following their respective login links. The login URL for AF employees is https://eopf1.nbc.gov/army/ and the login URL for NAF employees is https://eopf1.nbc.gov/armynaf/ . Begin by clicking on "Request Your eOPF ID" and enter your personal information. This input will result in your eOPF ID being emailed to you. Once you have that information; then click on "Request your eOPF Password". You will need to enter more information to include your eOPF ID to obtain your password. After you receive the password, you will be able to log in and access your eOPF. If you do not receive an email or assistance is needed logging into eOPF, please enter a CPOL Service Desk by selecting the following link: https://servicedeskw.cpol.army.mil/cpolsd. Instructions for creating a CPOL Service Desk ticket can be found on the CHRA Europe Region homepage, under Automation Tools in the eOPF for Employees section: https://cpolrhp.cpol.army.mil/eur/automation/index.htm. If you are unable to access the CPOL Service Desk, please contact your servicing CPAC or NAF HRO to provide a government or personal e-mail address for access notification purposes. If further assistance is needed logging into eOPF, please send an e-mail to: eOPF_hd@Telesishq.com or call 866-275-8518.

**** Access to eOPF records **** To protect the integrity of employee personnel records and security of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), access to your eOPF records can ONLY be gained by using a Government computer through a recognized Internet Protocol (IP) address. This necessary security measure limits employee access to Government installations and offices.

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Civilian Personnel Info

!!!!HOT NEWS!!! eOPF was released effective 16 Oct 12 How do I report problems regarding PII issues or unreadable documents?

If you find a document in your eOPF that does not belong to you, it is your responsibility to immediately report the issue via a CPOL Service Desk ticket. If you have a document in your eOPF that is illegible, you will also need to submit a CPOL Service Desk ticket. You can enter the CPOL Service Desk by selecting the following link: https://servicedeskw.cpol.army.mil/cpolsd. Instructions for creating a CPOL Service Desk ticket can be found on the CHRA Europe Region homepage, under Automation Tools in the eOPF for Employees section: https://cpolrhp.cpol.army.mil/eur/automation/index.htm.

Where can I get more information about eOPF?

Additional information is available on the CHRA Europe Region homepage under Automation Tools: https://cpolrhp.cpol.army.mil/eur/automation/index .htm

Frequently asked Questions Does eOPF allow a search for content to easily retrieve a record?

Yes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The eOPF is designed to give flexibility in searching for personnel documents. HR users search and retrieve documents for an individual employee by entering the SSN, employee ID or the employee's name. An HR Specialist may search within an employee eOPF or across multiple eOPFs. The HR Specialist may also search for specific forms and use the paper clip tool to group similar documents together or create notes related to a document in the form of annotations.

Can the eOPF be made available to the employee?

Yes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In addition to access for HR specialists and executives, each employee is given web-based access to his/her individual records, easing the review process, 4 especially for employees at remote sites. 1

Civilian Personnel Info

!!!!HOT NEWS!!! eOPF Frequently asked Questions Is an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sensitive personnel information secure?

Absolutely â&#x20AC;&#x201C; eOPF includes security measures to ensure the integrity of the system. For example, employees are able to view their own eOPF documents, but they cannot modify the documents. Additionally, the eOPF provides an audit trail or mandatory log that documents when and why an authorized user has reviewed an eOPF. This activity is reviewed through the use of reports.

How much training is involved?

Each agency is offered training to prepare HR staff to use the system and support employee users.

Is there a help feature in eOPF?

eOPF has online help that is viewed by clicking the word "Help" at the top of most pages within the eOPF website. The instructions in Help are printable.

When is the eOPF updated?

The timing of a new document in the eOPF depends on how the agency updates eOPF. Typically, HR personnel scan new documents into eOPF; however, some forms-like the SF 50, Notification of Action-are Personnel transmitted electronically into eOPF from the agency's data provider.

How is the employee notified when a document is added to an eOPF?

eOPF includes an option to send an email to an employee when a document is added to the folder. Questions about the eOPF tool may be directed to your servicing HR Specialist. Adapted from http://www.opm.gov/egov/e-gov/EHRI/eopf.asp

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Your Health and Wellness MR. ASAP - BENCH PRESS COMPETITION HOHENFELS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 26 SEPTEMBER 2012

BY KETTELY DARDEN

In conjunction with DF&MWR Hohenfels Health and Safety Fair, Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) conducted the Mr. ASAP Bench Press Competition on 26 Sep 12. This event was the central attraction to educated Soldiers, Family Members, and DA Civilians on warnings of using dietary supplements and drugs abuse. The challenge to the community was to exceed the strength of of Mr. John Dale (Mr. ASAP- Risk Reduction Program Coordinator) in three events. The community members were able to show their strength and be cheered by spectators of the Health and Safety Fair. Participants were able to compete in three categories; Max Bench Press, 222 lbs. Reps, and Female 85 lbs Reps. There were three places to win in the competition. Ten Soldiers and Family Members competed in the competition. In the Max Bench Press, 1st place went to Charlie McFadden (HHC OPS) , 2nd place Ulysses Reed (HHC Ops), and 3rd place Jayvis Patterson (Vet Clinic). In the 22lbs Reps, 1st place went to Jon Goodwin (Timberwolves), 2nd place Andrew Campbell (Health Clinic), and 3rd place Roy Saccriste (Vet Clinic). In the 85 lbs. Reps Female Competition, 1st place went to Jessica Aguirre (Family Member) and 2nd place Emma Lawson (FMWR). The Fitness Challenge provided education and awareness while promoting fitness for a Drug-Free and resilient Army.

Your Health and Wellness SALT – SAFE A LIFE TOUR

BY KETTELY DARDEN

Approximately 2500 Soldiers, Family Members, DA Civilians, and Local Nationals, received a sober perspective on the effects of driving while intoxicated. SALT Tour engaged participants with massive tour posters on display, high intensity videos rolling on huge monitors, and charismatic show presenters. Program began with a 20 minute introductory video of the devastating effects of drinking and driving. This high impact video starts with a disclaimer because of the graphic content and nature of the video. The video shows actual drinking and driving accidents, police response to the scene, emergency room scenes, and family responses. While participants interacted with the “drunk car” simulator machine, the presenter pointed out how alcohol affects reaction times and motor skills. The presenters also described how tunnel vision causes singular-focus and how it occurs under the influence of alcohol. There was an actual casket with a sign stating “Reserved for the Next Drinking and Driving Victim”. Bavarian Military Community (BMC) was one of many stops throughout Army Europe.

Your Health and Wellness SUICIDE PREVENTION

BY THERESA M. MARTINEZ

September is Suicide Prevention Month and I know one of the most difficult things to do is to ask for help. I also know that even if a person will not ask for help, they will accept it. And who will a person accept help from? Probably not me, because you don’t know me. But somewhere in your circle of family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances, is someone you will accept help from. Everyone has times in their life when they’re ready to throw in the towel. This reminds me of a poem by Langston Hughes, where a mother tells her son about the trials and tribulations he may encounter in life. She goes on to tell him that out of everything that comes his way, not to sit and rest because he has work to do. The simple truth is that it’s people like our mothers and fathers, spouses, best friends, lovers, siblings, etc. that we can really sit down and be ourselves with. These are the people who will prevent us from dying by suicide. Thus, those around us must know what to do if we become suicidal.

So, who do we need to train in Suicide Prevention? Saranson et, al., 1983 created the Social Support Scale by asking 3 questions: 1. Who can you count on to listen to you when you really need to talk? 2. Whom can you count on to console you when you are very upset? 3. Whom can you count on to help in a crisis situation even though they would have to go out of their way to do so?

These are the people we reach out to and connect with. If we have 5 people within this circle who are trained in Suicide Prevention our chances of survival are very much increased. If we have 2 or 3 people who are trained, our chances are fair. If we have one person, our chances are limited. And, if no one in our circle is trained, our chances are poor. We need to create a bubble of safety. A leading researcher in Suicidology, Dr. Paul Quinnett, gives an example of how to create this: “Now, I need all of you to write a letter. Dear______. As you know, I’m serving in the military. Things are great now, but there could come a day when I could use some help. If that day comes, I’d like to count on you and your support. If you’re up for this, just let me know and I’ll make sure you get some information and training. Thanks.”

Your Health and Wellness SUICIDE PREVENTION – CONTINUED

BY THERESA M. MARTINEZ

We have to train people to recognize the risk factors, warning signs and suicidal comments. We must respond with quick, bold and positive action. The warning signs are depression, statements of hopelessness, giving away prized possessions, etc. There are seven life-saving goals: o Detection of suicidal persons o Active intervention o Alleviation of immediate risk factors o Accompanied referral o Access to treatment o Accurate diagnosis o Aggressive treatment Another simple truth is that when we solve the problems people kill themselves to solve, the reasons for suicide disappear. Thus, compassionate crisis intervention, problem resolution, and treatment will save lives. Byron V. Garrett (the ABC’s of Life) wrote: “I don’t know your situation or your circumstance, but I do know you didn’t come this far to stop. My ultimate goal is to ascend above the clouds and I truly understand you cannot “sit” your way into heaven. In fact, you cannot be progressive by sitting your way anywhere. You have to keep on keepin’ on and you may even have to kick some of those negative folks and negative habits to the curb. It doesn’t mean you are being condescending of looking down upon people, you simply realize that you are at a different place in life. Only you know what it will take for you to make it—so you must keep on keepin’ on!”

If you truly desire to be highly successful, there will be people and things you’ll have to say no to.

Your Health and Wellness LET’S GET UNCOMFORTABLE

BY MARIO MENA

Those of you that are faithful readers of The Source Magazine might recognize my name from a previous article I wrote. It was about the benefits of running and getting motivated to run. This article will build on my previous ideas but I will also expand on those thoughts and give even non-runners something to think about. I recently committed to a schedule of half- and whole-marathons which culminate at next year’s 40th anniversary of the Berlin Marathon. I hope to have my best performance ever at that event. Of course this will require a lot of training, dedication and sacrifice if I am going to achieve my goal. The schedule involves numerous events in several different countries under many types of conditions. The most interesting run will probably be the Polar Nights half marathon in Tromso Norway. This event takes place in early January when Norway goes months without sunshine. And of course we are running in the snow in sub-zero temperatures. This is the run that I look forward to the most. My friends and co-workers don’t understand why I would even consider taking on such a challenge. After all I am not a natural athlete, and I don’t possess the physical attributes which most good runners have. And why would somebody wake up at 4:30 am just to make sure they can get 10 miles in before they go to work? The truth is I don’t think about those things anymore. Sure, in the beginning my body ached whenever I would run more than 2 miles, and just the thought of how I would feel the day after a long run was enough to discourage me from running at all. But after a while it all got a little easier and less painful. I no longer dreaded the idea of running or going to the gym. Even eating healthier got easier as it became a normal way of life. Was it that I had become so fit and conditioned that running no longer hurt or was it something else? Last year I subscribed to a runners magazine because I was looking for nutrition tips which were specifically aimed at runners. By coincidence I ran across an article titled, “Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable.” The whole idea behind the article was to intentionally create discomfort or pain on one’s own body in order to break down the fears of pain that many athletes experience when they push themselves..

Your Health and Wellness LET’S GET UNCOMFORTABLE - CONTINUED

BY MARIO MENA

This aversion to pain often prevents many athletes from advancing their abilities. The article suggested techniques like rolling golf balls under your feet and increasing the pressure over time. This creates a good deal of discomfort because of the amount of nerves contained in the human foot. The premise behind this idea is simple: allowing yourself to get used to discomfort will allow you to work out harder without the fear of the pain we experience during and after tough work outs. Most people want to get to a point in their fitness program were they can enjoy a work out without feeling like they had just wrestled a bear and lost. It’s great to go out, run 3 miles and not even break a sweat. But after a while we tend to plateau, and that’s when we get in the comfort zone. We reject the idea of working out harder or differently because we recognize how uncomfortable it makes us. Besides, we put a lot of work into our routine and it felt good. This is when I learned tip #1: In your workouts, being physically uncomfortable is where you gain increased strength, speed and agility. Apparently hitting that feel good zone during your workouts is fine, but if you want real growth you have to push yourself to the point of discomfort. I was very intrigued with this concept and so I decided to learn more about the benefits of being uncomfortable. What I learned was way more eye opening than I could have imagined. The idea of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable was not isolated to sports. As a matter of fact, it existed as a life philosophy before it was ever applied to sports. It didn’t take long for me to figure out that I was actually pretty good at applying this concept in my professional life. I never shied away from doing a job with which I was unfamiliar because I knew that eventually I would learn. Sure, there is some discomfort involved when I think about doing something new, but there is also an opportunity for growth. Besides I can’t even count the number of jobs and skill sets that I have learned throughout my 30 years of federal service. I had never failed before so why would the next job be any different? You could say that I have become comfortable with being uncomfortable. Tip #2: In your career or business, taking uncomfortable risks or doing work outside of your “comfort zone” is where you can advance yourself to the next level.

Your Health and Wellness LET’S GET UNCOMFORTABLE - CONTINUED

BY MARIO MENA

After having read numerous articles on this topic I started to identify co-workers who I believed were in the comfort zone and had no intention of ever leaving their groove. And I’m talking about: people who are always quick to say, “That’s not my job” or “I don’t know how to do that” and of course my favorite, “I never had to do that before.” These are people who have learned a job and are fairly satisfied doing it for the rest of their career. Of course there is some value in this attitude but there is very little security. We all know that the only constant is change and any job or function in an organization can be eliminated at any time. These days it pays to have depth in skills and experience. Tip #3: When you are uncomfortable, you are pushing boundaries. You are trying new things. You are willing to fail and fail big. This is where amazing personal and professional shifts come from.

I believe that this philosophy can be useful in almost every aspect of our lives. I’m glad I stumbled on this nugget of knowledge, and that is why I have embarked on this mission of running races under different conditions which I had never experienced before. I want growth in my running program and I have to get comfortable being uncomfortable in order to achieve it. How about you? Do you desire growth in some aspect of your life? Then you should consider tip #4: Comfort equals accepting the status quo. If you don’t aspire to anything more, then go ahead and be comfortable. Uncomfortable leads to growth. It’s scary and may be painful, but pain is temporary. Your achievements are forever.

BMC Customer Service Standardization and Customer Service Training

By Tim Ghormley

As a Garrison employee you are probably aware of the Garrison Commander’s three Keys to Success:  Provide and Standardize Quality Customer Service (Internalize)  Capture and Share Best Practices (Innovate)  Manage Customer Expectations (Communicate) To ensure the BMC is achieving and implementing the GC’s Keys to Success, the Garrison Plans, Analysis, and Integration Office (PAI) has been charted to establish a Customer Service Standardization (CSS) Working Group. This CSS Working Group developed distinctive goals and objectives to ensure the BMC has a fully implementable and successful CSS program. These objectives include: Develop BMC Customer Service Standards; Develop standardized customer waiting areas and signage; Develop customer expectation management marketing strategy; Develop BMC Customer Service Training, modeled from FMWR Operation Excellence (OPEX); Ensure employee Individual Development Plans include customer services standards and training; Develop Customer Service Performance Measures Reporting and Analysis (PMR&A); Develop Customer Service Assessment Checklists and procedures to be used by leaders, supervisors, mystery shoppers and employees. Of all the objectives to achieve Standardized Customer Service throughout the BMC, the most important of these is training. If you are a new Garrison employee and or if you are an FMWR employee you have probably attended the Operations Excellence (OPEX) training provided by FMWR. OPEX training is designed and focused on teaching the art of providing friendly, timely, and quality customer service. As an employee of one of three installations that make up the BMC, we must know and understand that we provide services to our customers. We are service providers and sometimes we are service recipients. So we should have an appreciation for how services should be delivered to our customers. The BMC will implement an extensive and robust customer service training program that will utilize the OPEX training as the foundation for developing a quality customer service oriented BMC workforce and culture. Select personnel from each Directorate will be trained to serve as BMC Customer Service Representative/Trainer (CSR/T).

BMC Customer Service Standardization and Customer Service Training

By Tim Ghormley

The role of the CSR/T is to be the quality customer service change agent for their respective directorate. The CSR/T will become OPEX trainer certified and will provide customer service training to all Front Door Service Providers (FDSP) and other staff members within their directorate. The CSR/T will also be the focal point to ensure all the elements of the CSS program are implemented within their directorate. CSS WG is developing a training schedule that will provide tailored OPEX/customer service training to all FDSPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first, then to directors, managers and supervisors, and finally to all other BMC employees that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily have daily contact with customers a tailored down version of customer service training - a back shop version if you will, that is designed to give non-Front Door Service personnel an overview of CSS and how their duties relate to quality customer service. In addition to OPEX, we have identified other CSS supportive training that can be taken on-line at no cost to the employee or the Garrison. Customer Service training will be designed from a holistic approach to customer service. Employees are expected to not only learn how to provide quality customer service, but they will also learn elements like dealing with difficult customers, facilitation, and communication skills. Additionally, we want to provide every BMC employee with Resiliency training that will help them deal with stressful situations in both the customer service and personal aspects of their life. We want every employee to be mentally, emotionally, and professionally strong through a holistic customer service training program. What should you expect to see? Within the next month you should be hearing from your directorate, who has been designated as your CSR/T. Within the next two you should start seeing a schedule of OPEX/customer service classes and on-line training available for you to attend. As important as customer service training is to the success of the CSS program, it is only as effective and relevant if you actively participate and apply the knowledge you learn. But most importantly, remember this, we are in the business of providing service and programs to the Soldiers, Civilians and Families of the BMC. We are all customer service representatives and ambassadors for the BMC. Ultimately we want to consistently provide the best quality services in an efficient and friendly manner throughout the BMC.

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Dealing with angry customers by Patrice Turner-Lapp

Many Soldiers and their Family Members are facing very challenging and stressful times as Army Transformation forces unexpected relocations to other installations and, unfortunately for many, departures from active duty. These sudden changes are unsettling for all impacted as they struggle with a sense of loss of control and uncertainty about what the future holds. Not surprising, disappointment, frustration, and anger can follow. As Front Door Service Providers, you may find yourself in the unenviable position of recipient of the customer's frustration and anger. I ask that you remain professional in the face of such outbursts. Please take time to review the attached Tip Sheet which provides proven strategies for effectively dealing with angry customers.

. Be Calm

. Empathize . Solve . Thank

If you would like to learn more about B.E.S.T. and/or receive more customer service training, please ask with your Supervisor about attending the next Operation Excellence (OPEX) course scheduled for 8 November.

The following page provides strategies for effectively dealing with angry customers.

Dealing with angry customers - continued by Patrice Turner-Lapp

Begin by Listening Most irate customers need time to vent before they are ready to listen to what you have to say. Give them that time right from the beginning – actively listening to the complaint so you can get to the underlying problem and a possible solution. Do Not Answer Emotion with Emotion If you can avoid taking the complaint personally, you will be more likely to respond to the customer's anger with calm and patience. Take it seriously, but not personally. Listen to emotion without emotion. Watch Your Tone and Volume The best way to counter a high volume from a customer is with a low one that exudes calm and patience. By the same token, watch your tone when you are responding to an angry customer. If you encounter a loud and abusive customer, respond by speaking softly and with a very steady tone. Sincerely Apologize When Warranted All people want their feelings acknowledged “I'm sorry you've had this experience. What can I do to make this better” Take Responsibility, Take Action, Own the Problem Once you have a handle on the situation, explain the available solutions. Find a solution that works. Suggest remedies which are appropriate for the situation. Replace the Word ‘BUT with “AND The word BUT negates everything a person has just said, leaving the angry customer feeling more frustrated and misunderstood. Using AND can help you to become a better listener, and creates a more supportive environment for the customer Follow up. Be sure to follow up with any customers who had complaints. After the problem has been resolved, it's a good idea to check in one more time to make sure everything exceeds their expectations Use the B.E.S.T strategy • Be Calm • Empathize • Solve • Thank

Sources: http://www.businessknowhow.com/marketing/diffuseanger.htm http://whatyourbodysays.com/communication/angrycustomer/

Election Day 2012 Message on Importance of Voting -

As delivered by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta, The Pentagon, Washington, DC, Thursday, October 04, 2012 On November 6th, Americans will have the opportunity to exercise the most important responsibility we have in a democracy – the right to vote. Voters will choose from candidates at every level – from the Commander-in-Chief, to legislative representatives, to county commissioners, city council members and others. I don't have to tell you that your vote can determine the future. It really counts. And that's why it's so important to participate in this process – no matter where you are in the world, no matter who you plan to vote for. Please exercise this privilege that you're willing to fight and die for in order to protect. But there isn't much time. If you're overseas or away from home, request your absentee ballot immediately, and mail it back in time so that your vote will count. And if you need help, visit your Installation Voter Assistance Office, or see your Unit's Voting Assistance Officer, or visit the website www.fvap.gov <http://www.fvap.gov/>. Every day, your efforts make this country safer and its people more secure. You have more than earned the right to vote. So please participate in the democratic process that sustains the blessings of liberty that we work so hard to protect. This Election Day I encourage you and your family to play an important part in our great democracy. Your vote will help determine the future of our nation, and the future of a government of, by, and for all people. Thank you. September 27th through October 4th was National Absentee-Ballot Awareness Week, during which voters who had not received their states’ absentee ballots could complete the federal write-in absentee ballot so it could arrive in time to be counted. In support of this special observance, the Military Personnel Division manned voting assistance booths at the Grafenwoehr PX on 28 September, and at the Grafenwoehr Post Office on 1 October, where many Soldiers and Families were assisted through the absentee ballot process. Each state has different laws that govern the execution of elections, but all states must accept the federal absentee ballot. Each Army installation has voting assistance officers available To help Soldiers navigate the sometimes difficult process of filing to vote absentee. The point of contact for the Grafenwoehr, Vilseck and Garmisch communities is SSG Alvaro Velasquez, and he can be reached at DSN 475-8842, or via email at alvaro.g.velasquez.mil@mail.mil . For more information on voting you can also visit the Human Resources Command web site at https://www.hrc.army.mil/TAGD/Voting , or the federal web site at http://www.fvap.gov/. 5 4

Election Day 2012 Free “Express Mail” Postal Service for all Overseas Absentee Ballots All Absentee Ballots received at IMCOM-E Postal Service Centers (PSC) will receive free “Express Mail” rate of service provided by the United States Postal Service, up to 6 Nov 2012. • Service is available to all U.S. citizens overseas regardless of any affiliation with the military or DOD. All absentee ballots received at Military PSCs will be accepted and processed via Express rate. Points of drop off are the PSC counter, local USPS drop boxes, or at local security gates for any U.S. citizens abroad who wish to send an absentee ballot thru a military PSC. The Postmaster has made coordination thru DES for security gate pickups. • Tracking Service: Absentee ballots received at the PSCs will be affixed with DOD Label-11 (pictured below) and dispatched in an express pouch, delivery rate is 2-5 days from OCONUS. Customers will receive a receipt showing a tracking number trackable at USPS.com

(USPS Tracking Number)

Points of Contact for questions, concerns or additional information: Main Post Grafenwoehr PSC: jaye.bakalars@us.army.mil 475-6333, CIV 09641-83-6333 Rose Barracks Vilseck PSC: larry.morris@us.army.mil 476-2581, CIV 09662-83-3462

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BMC Charging Boar Exercise – 29 September 2012 The Bavaria Military Community (BMC), along with our Host Nation counterparts, conducted its annual Full Scale Exercise on 29 September 2012. In keeping with the One Community concept, the exercise encompassed Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels, and Garmisch, testing the ability of the three communities to maintain control of their situation while remaining cognizant and ready to protect and respond to additional threats across the BMC.

The Full Scale Exercise tested the garrison’s ability to react to a natural or manmade hazard with our organic assets and to seamlessly integrate with our Host Nation counterparts when the situation is greater than our responders can quickly handle alone. The exercise included our Fire Department and MP’s, Military Augmentee response, and the Activation and Stand-up of the Garrison Crisis Management Team (CMAT). Fire and Police First Responders arrived, conducted an assessment, and immediately determined if Host Nation support is needed. Based on multiple incidents and the number of casualties, the Huetten and Gmuend Fire Departments, along with BRK and Police, were called to assist Grafenwoehr. Scenario: Shots at the Hohenfels’ Albertshof Gate shattered the morning peace on 29 September 2012. After everything was cleared, the shooter and one victim were dead, with another victim wounded. Thirty minutes later, a car bomb at Grafenwoehr’s Gate 1, and a mass shooting at Camp Aachen, combined with suspicious activities at Garmisch, placed the garrison leadership of the BMC on full alert.

While First Responders put out fires, treated casualties and conducted law enforcement operations, the CMAT gathered data from the incident in order to best support the responders on the ground and the installation as a whole. Representatives from each garrison directorate, along with a JMTC liaison, Legal Assistance, and the Weather Squadron provided the BMC leadership with the overall picture of the incidents not just in Grafenwoehr, but across the BMC. At the end of the exercise, best practices were incorporated into existing policy, while lessons learned are validated and placed into practice. The goal of the Full Scale Exercise was to validate that the garrison can respond to any situation and keep the 56 community safe; this was successfully accomplished this year.

Child Find Program Grafenwoehr and Netzaberg Elementary Schools are offering free developmental screenings for children 3-5 years old. Do you suspect that your child may have difficulties with:

 Running, jumping, climbing, coloring, or writing?  Speaking clearly, expressing themselves?  Understanding what they are told?  Learning colors, shapes, letters, numbers, or counting?  Connecting with others, independence, or tantrums?  Eating, dressing, or grooming skills? Child Find is a process designed to screen, refer, and identify children with suspected disabilities who may be eligible to receive special education and related services. Developmental screening appointments are available throughout the school year.

For more information see Brochure Child Find-2012, Brochure Child Find – McFail-2012 or to schedule an appointment contact: Jonica McPhail, DSN 475-7133, jonica.mcphail@eu.dodea.edu (Grafenwoehr), Nara Hays, DSN 472-9184, nara.hays@eu.dode.edu (Netzaberg) or Audrey Reader, DSN 476-2812, audery.reader@eu.dodea.edu (Vilseck).

For children under the age of 3, EDIS offers a free screening to determine if your child is meeting his/her developmental milestones. Contact DSN 476-3221 or CIV 09662-83-322.

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Bavaria Military Community Oktoberfest – “Off Duty” Staff Ride Friday, 28 September 2012

Bavaria Military Community staff, their spouses and friends were cordially invited to attend a day at the Munich Oktoberfest. Bus transportation and reservations at the famous Paulaner fest tent were arranged for all participants.

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Military OneSource Website If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t taken a look at this remarkably inclusive website, you are missing out on a lot of valuable and timely information. It is ideal for Soldiers, Family members and anyone connected with the military. With round-the-clock availability of real people to talk to as well as extensive written information, Military OneSource offers information on personal counseling, financial counseling, income tax, deployment questions, educational concerns of any kind, parenting issues, career development, adoption and much more. For more information, go to www.militaryonesource.com or call 001-800342-9647 or overseas collect at 001-484-530-5908. For collect calls contact an international operator first.

The 2012/2013 flu season is rapidly approaching Your Army Health Clinic at Grafenwoehr is working hard to decrease the incidence and severity of flu this season. Getting immunized to prevent complications from the flu is very important. We are providing for the entire community to include DOD and non-DOD beneficiaries (Tri-Care, DODS School Teachers, Local Nationals, Contractors, etc) at no cost to the individual. For special populations with medical conditions such as pregnancy, asthma, diabetes, chronic illnesses and age groups over 65 or caregivers of children under the age of 1 years old the importance of avoiding the flu is paramount. We have teams of health care providers going out to unit areas during PT to vaccinate Soldiers, to the elementary schools, junior high and high schools to ensure your school age students wellness this winter. We have a walk-in service, located in our clinic, dedicated to family membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and others wanting the flu vaccine. Please call DSN 475-5638 for more information or walk-in Monday-Thursdays from 09001600 or Fridays from 0900-1200 and get your flu vaccine today.

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT LOSING ACCESS TO YOUR COMPUTER If you have an employee out on sick leave, etc., and gone from the office for more than 1 week please ensure you have someone logging onto their computer each week or they will be lose access to their computer and have to go through the whole process of getting approval again. The person logging on just needs to log onto the computer using their own CAC card. 5 9

1. We are asking for maximum distribution of this publication, i.e. print versions in break rooms and bulletin boards. 2. Did you like this issue? Was the information pertinent? Would you like to see other topics? Give us your feedback and ideas for improvement. If you want to submit information or articles for publication in the next issue, please submit by 30 November 2012. For contact information see editorial info box below.

BMC Employee Newsletter The BMC Employee Newsletter is published and distributed quarterly in an electronic format on the garrison Webpage and emailed to the garrison workforce. Contributions from the workforce welcome. The Director of Human Resources (DHR) reserves the right to make changes to all editorial material submitted. Submission can be emailed to usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcom.mbx.usaggrafenwoehr-awards-ci@mail.mil. For security reasons, emails received with a blank subject line will be deleted unread. For more information call 475-7271 or 475-8866.

USAG Grafenwoehr Command Garrison Commander COL James E. Saenz Deputy Garrison Commander Ms. Kathy Aydt Command Sergeant Major William Berrios-Rodriguez The information in the BMC employee newsletter is provided by the USAG Grafenwoehr Directorate of Human Resources. Layout and design Patricia Witt Christina Mueller