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COMMENTARY March marks Brain Injury Awareness Month, Page 2

DCMILITARY.COM

AIR FORCE NEWS

Three Airman musicians recognized in media contest, Page 4

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION OF COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS AT JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MD.

NAMI to hold first free Homefront Course

BASE NEWS CMSAF spends day with JBA Airmen, Page 6

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015 | VOL. 4 NO. 12

Keeping JBA clean

BY BOBBY JONES

STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST

The Prince George’s County National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is offering its first free, six-session class at the University of Maryland College Park’s 1101 Memorial Chapel Conference Room, Tuesdays 6 to 8:30 pm, starting March 31.

“This is the first time a Homefront class has been offered in Prince George’s County,” said Collette Harris, President NAMI Prince George‘s County Affiliate.

“This class is targeted to caregivers, family members or friends of individuals who are either active duty military or veterans with mental health conditions, such as PTSD, depression or various other mental illnesses,” said Harris.

“The class is designed

see NAMI, page 7

No Heat/No Cool – HVAC Changeover The 11th Civil Engineer Squadron will initiate an installation-wide “No Heat/No Cool” period to assist us in switching heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units from heating to cooling modes. The start date for this period will be April 15 with an anticipated completion date of May 16.

During this “No Heat/ No Cool” period, HVAC technicians will complete all equipment servicing and startup preparations; additionally, based on last year’s data, Team Andrews will be able to

see HVAC, page 2

Innovative program places veterans in workforce

BY BOBBY JONES

STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTOS/SENIOR AIRMAN MARIAH HADDENHAM

Senior Airman Thomas Hollingsworth, 779th Aerospace Medicine Squadron bioenvironmental technician, checks the condition of a Level A hazardous material suit, with the help of Airman 1st Class Ashton McLaughlin, 779th AMS bioenvironmental technician, March 16 on Joint Base Andrews.

BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS J.D. MAIDENS

11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

From sampling the base’s water to making sure the environments Joint Base Andrews personnel work in are safe to testing the quality of the air, bioenvironmental technicians are critical to mission success.

“We provide healthrisk assessments to make sure the commander has all the information when making critical decisions,” said Senior Airman Thomas Hollingsworth, 779th Aerospace Medicine Squadron bioenvironmental technician. “We also optimize combat performance and minimize casualties in the case of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear incidents.”

The career field provides a number of services to JBA and the Air Force at-large: the JBA technicians accomplish approximately 1400 gas

significant health risks.”

The same technicians testing water samples and checking air quality don HazMat suits in case of emergencies.

“CBRN response is an important part of the job,” Hollingsworth said.

“We gather as much information regarding the incident as possible.

We then suit up and respond to and minimize risks posed by extremely hazardous materials, Senior Airman Thomas Hollingsworth, 779th Aerodealing with visual hazspace Medicine Squadron bioenvironmental techniards and testing the air, cian, demonstrates putting on a gas mask with the water and anything else help of Airman 1st Class Ashton McLaughlin, 779th that could put the public AMS bioenvironmental technician. The flight conat risk.” ducts approximately 1,400 gas mask fit tests and With the danger and tests more than 140 water samples per year. subject matter so grievous, the job can still be mask fittings and 144 bers safe. water tests per year.

“We assess work en- rewarding.

“I love my job,” said “We do gas mask fit- vironments relative to tings, shop assessments individual pregnancies,” Airman 1st Class Ashand water sampling Hollingsworth said. ton McLaughlin, 779th among other things,” “There are many occupa- AMDS bioenvironmenHollingsworth said. “We tional hazards that could tal technician. “We get can test from occupa- harm the mother or put to interact with a lot of tional hazards from ra- the pregnancy in danger. different people on base. diation to noise levels.”

For example, chemicals It feels good to keep the Technicians also keep used by the Civil Engi- population safe and sethe youngest JBA mem- neer Squadron can pose cure.”

Sharp Decisions looks to tackle the unemployment problem in the U.S. by investing in veterans through a platform model entitled Vocations, Education and Training for Service Members (V.E.T.S.) Program it launched more two years ago.

According to Karen Ross, Sharp Decisions CEO, her company is the only company using the V.E.T.S. Program’s platform to train and employ Post 911 veterans as software quality assurance analysts. Concerned about the military unemployment rate, she wanted to invest in the already well-trained, tech savvy veterans.

Upon completion of the training, the veterans are deployed in squadrons of four members and are integrated with their client company. While participating in the four- to sixweek program, veterans are fully salaried and trained in quality assurance, software testing, business analysis, and program management without having to use their GI Bill.

On Mar. 18, Sharp Decisions deployed a squadron of V.E.T.S graduates and integrated them into the workforce of their anchor-client, Freddie Mac in McLean, Va. “This program came across my desk about two years ago,” said Tim Snyder, Freddie Mac VP, Software Quality, who oversees V.E.T.S. program for Freddie Mac.

see JOBS, page 7

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Hot tickets around town March 27-28

Evangel Cathedral Easter Production: King of Kings Evangel Cathedral, 13901 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro Evangel Multi Media and Arts Center presents, King of Kings! Featuring Stellar & Grammy Award winning artists including, Marvin Winans, Karen Clark Sheard, Richard Smallwood and more. Will feature, live animals, a light show and a cast of 100.

Call 301-249-9400 or visit www.evangeleasterproduction.com.

March 28

World Dance Showcase 8 p.m.

Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly This popular annual event showcases wide-ranging dance traditions performed with a swirl of vivid costumes. Call 301-277-1710 or visit www.arts.pgparks.com.

March 28

The Marcels 8 p.m.

Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington The Marcels were an American doo-wop group known for turning popular music songs into rock and roll. The Marcels are as advertised, the guys who put the “Bomp” in the “Bomp-A-Bomp” back in 1961 when their first recording, “Blue Moon” sold over two and a half million copies. Call 301203-6070 or visit www.arts.pgparks.com.

March 28

Maryland Spring Festival Horse Show 8 a.m.

The Show Place Arena, 14900 Pennsylvania Ave., Upper Marlboro FREE for spectators. Call 301-952-7900 or visit www.showplacearena.com.

March 28

Argentina-El Salvador 4 p.m.

Fed Ex Field, Fed Ex Way, Landover FedExField will host an international soccer match between 2014 World Cup finalist Argentina and local favorite El Salvador. Call 202-397-7328 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS Andrews Gazette is published by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force or any branch of the United States military.

The appearance of advertising in these publications, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the products and services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, martial status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non merit factor of the purchases, user or patron.

Maxine Minar, president mminar@dcmilitary.com John Rives, publisher

jrives@dcmilitary.com

Deirdre Parry, page design dparry@gazette.net Leslie Smith, editor lsmith@dcmilitary.com Bobby Jones, photographer bjones@dcmilitary.com

Friday, March 27, 2015

Commentary

March marks Brain Injury Awareness Month

BY KAREN S. GUICE, M.D., M.P.P. PRINCIPAL DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR HEALTH AFFAIRS

Often called one of the “invisible wounds of war,” traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the result of a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Anyone can suffer a TBI, it can happen on the sports field, in your home, or on the job.

During March, the Military Health System (MHS) is focusing its talent and efforts on the issue of TBI. We will provide tools and resources to educate service members, their families, retirees and Defense Department civilians about the prevention and treatment of TBI, while highlighting ongoing MHS research and breakthroughs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year 1.7 million people are diagnosed with a brain injury. The most common form of TBI, even for the military, is mild TBI (also referred to as a concussion) and the vast majority occur at home. The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center reported that from 2000-2014 more than 313,000 service members were diagnosed with TBI, and most of these were mild.

GRAPHIC: U.S. AIR FORCE GRAPHIC/ROBIN MEREDITH

MHS research has produced several breakthroughs that improve the lives of our patients, beneficiaries, and all Americans who sustain TBIs. Our work is even taking us back to college to examine the impact of TBIs on athletes. The NCAA and the DOD are currently sponsoring the “Mind Matters Challenge,” a landmark initiative to enhance the safety of student-athletes and service members. The partnership is the most comprehensive study of concussion and head impact exposure ever conducted.

For TBI patients, TRICARE covers rehabilitative services provided by physicians, psychologists, physical therapists, occupational thera-

pists, and speech-language pathologists. The DOD offers a variety of products such as clinical recommendations, tool kits, and mobile applications to assist health care providers in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of patients with mild TBI. One of the most important steps in TBI treatment is rest, which allows the brain to physically and mentally recover, and removes the risk of suffering another concussion while the brain is healing. Early diagnosis of TBI, as well as evaluation, and treatment can shorten returnto-duty time and lead to the best possible outcome for those entrusted to our care.

of Honor Prestige Folio Forever stamps on Memorial Day, May 25.

The ceremony, hosted by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, will take place at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall. By the end of the Vietnam War on April 30, 1975, nearly 3 million service men and women had fought in the conflict that would take the lives of more than 58,000 Americans.

During the Vietnam War, 258 were awarded the Medal of Honor. The Prestige Folio stamp sheet, which lists the names of all recipients, will be modeled after the World War II and Korean War Medal of Honor Prestige Folio stamp sheets issued in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

previous years, the games were run by the U. S. Olympic Committee in Colorado Springs, Colo. The games feature eight sporting events with about 200 athletes representing teams from each military service.

Each service hosts trials to formulate their teams. DoD created the Military Adaptive Sports Program in 2011 to enhance warrior recovery by engaging wounded, ill and injured service members in ongoing, daily adaptive activities, based on their interest and ability. Since its inception, the program has assisted more than 158,000 wounded, injured service members at 325 structured camps and clinics.

Retiree Corner New VA Pharmacy Feature

Veterans can track the status of most of their prescriptions from VA online. The 24/7 service allows online tracking for most prescriptions mailed from the VA Mail Order Pharmacy. More than 57,000 veterans use the service through My HealtheVet, an online feature that allows veterans to partner with their health care team. The number is expected to grow as VA starts to educate veterans about the new feature. The tracking feature includes images of the medication dispensed. Still in the planning stage is a secure messaging alert when a medication was placed in the mail.

New Commemorative Stamp

The U.S. Postal Service will honor Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipients by dedicating the Limited Edition Vietnam War Medal

HVAC, from page 1 conserve an estimated 900,000 KWH in electrical usage resulting in a savings of $72,000 and 2,000 Dekatherm in natural gas usage resulting in a savings of

The Retiree Activities Office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday The Defense Department’s War- through Friday. Visit the office in rior Games will be held June 19-28 Building 1604 at California and at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Colorado Avenues or call 301 981Va. The annual sporting competi- 2726. Call before your visit to ensure tion brings together wounded, ill a volunteer is on duty. The RAO has and injured service members. In a website at www.andrews.af.mil

Warrior Games Move

$12,000 for a combined electric and natural gas total savings of $84,000 which could potentially be re-invested into base operations.

During the downtime, only Mission Critical Facilities, Child Development Centers, Critical

Server Rooms and Base Housing will be exempt. Patience and understanding from base residents while this is being accomplished will be greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions, please contact 11 CES Customer Service at 301-981-5151.

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Three Airman musicians recognized in media contest

BY CHIEF MASTER SGT. JENN PAGNARD Three Airman musicians from The U.S. Air Force Band won awards in the 2013 Air Force Public Affairs Media contest. Four was the magic number for the 2014 contest with four of the Band’s Airman musicians taking home “prizes.”

The Air Force Media Contest is an annual competition between public affairs products, including journalism, social media, graphic art, video production, music, and others. The contest features 50 categories in all.

It is designed to inspire and reward excellence and professionalism in Air Force Public Affairs community. Awards are given to both civilians and military members.

Now retired Senior Master Sgt. Robert Thurston and Master Sgt. Emily Wellington were once again awarded first place distinctions. This year, Master Sgt. Joshua Kowalsky and Technical Sgt. Hannah Rigg joined the

U. S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS JOSHUA R. M. DEWBERRY

Technical Sgt. Hannah Rigg performs a solo with the Concert Band April 7, 2014 at Valparaiso University’s Chapel of Resurrection in Valparaiso, Ind. Rigg joined the Air Force in August 2013 and is a member of the Singing Sergeants. She was just selected as the “Outstanding New Public Affairs Musician” for 2014.

circle of winners as well.

Senior Master Sgt. Robert Thurston won first place in “Category 46: Outstanding Large Instrumental Composi-

tion/Arrangement” for his original composition “Departures.” This is the title track for the Concert Band’s most recent recording.

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Master Sgt. Joshua Kowalsky was awarded third place in “Category 47: Outstanding Small Instrumental Composition/Arrangement” for

his arrangement of Benjamin Britten’s Alpine Suite for flute, clarinet and cello. This composition was originally written for three recorders.

About this award, Kowalsky said, “I’m particularly proud of this accomplishment, since I don’t have any formal training in musical arrangement!”

Last year, then Technical Sgt. Matthew Geist won first prize in “Category 48: Outstanding Popular Song.” However, this year’s honors went to Master Sgt. Emily Wellington for “Black Cat.” Wellington wrote this song for Celtic Aire, which is comprised of five Airman musicians from the Singing Sergeants.

Using multiple instruments and lush vocal harmonies, Celtic Aire performs a large repertoire of Celtic folk songs, Irish reels and jigs, pub songs, and their own take on select pop hits, and now original works.

And last, but certainly not least, coming in first

place in “Category 49: Outstanding New Public Affairs Musician” was Technical Sgt. Hannah Rigg, a soprano vocalist in the Singing Sergeants.

A native of Tomball, Texas, Rigg’s career in the Air Force began in August 2013. She received a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance from East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas. She then received a Master of Music degree from The Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University.

In a congratulatory email to the award winners, Col. Larry Lang commended, “This is an enormous achievement!”

He continued, “Thank you for your tremendous contributions to our organization and to our Air Force. Bravo!”

Whole-hearted congratulations to these four Airmen musicians on being recognized with these Air Force wide awards.

JBA RETIRES HQ U.S. FLAG

Col. Brad Hoagland, Tianna Sousa Johnson, JD PH: 202-302-2958 11th Wing/ tjohnson@mutual-mediation.com www.mutual-mediation.com Joint Base Andrews Divorce Mediation commander, Divorce is not easy for anyone involved. However, many salutes a U.S. divorces can be managed in a manner that will minimize its Flag during negative effects. Mutual Mediation will facilitate a conversation a retreat cerbetween parties in a safe and informal environment to help emony. It was them reach mutually beneficial and fair agreements with regard held to retire to the equitable distribution of property, visitation, the flag after it shared parenting, custody and support issues. was no longer “The mutually beneficial alternative to divorce litigation” deemed a fit1042265B ting emblem for display.

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTOS/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN J. SONNIER

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The Joint Base Andrews Honor Guard lowers a U.S. Flag during a retreat ceremony in front of the Jones Building. The flag was retired because its condition was no longer deemed a fitting emblem for display.

Team Andrews members prepare to retire one of the installation flags located in front of the Jones Building March 23 on Joint Base Andrews. According to the U.S. Flag code, “the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

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AUN J Classic Orchestra holds special performance for VA Medical Center VA Medical Center personnel and residents were treated to a special performance by the AUN J Classic Japanese Orchestra. Set to open this year’s Cherry Blossom Parade, this internationally acclaimed Japanese Orchestra uses traditional instruments such as the wa-daiko, shamisen, koto, shakuhachi, shinobue and narimono in a highenergy performance with musical pieces that engage the senses and invites the audience on an entertaining ride.

This performance was just one of the sundry of activities to mark the 50th Anniversary of the DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

“I’m excited that AUN J was with us tonight as we kick off our 50th year at this location – Irving Street, Washington, D.C. – to be a part of the Cherry Blossom Festival is amazing for us. I think it speaks to what we are doing in the community – our community engagement,” said Brian Hawkins, Medical Center Director of the Washington, D.C. VA Medical Center (DCVAMC).

PHOTOS/LESLIE C. SMITH

Military members gain priority at MPF

BY SENIOR AIRMAN PRESTON WEBB 11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

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The 11th Force Support Squadron initiated a program March 16, to prioritize military members in uniform needing new Common Access Cards between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day.

“We were receiving a lot of complaints about wait times,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Parker, 11th FSS customer support supervisor. “We figured the best way to keep the mission flowing, especially during the hours when people are out and about, was to establish a military priority time block.”

The 11th FSS services five wings, two headquarters and more than 80 tenant organizations with 40,000 military, family members and retirees.

With wait times to receive a new CAC reaching up to two hours, the squadron created the program to dramatically reduce those times, and increase overall efficiency and mission effectiveness.

“We should be able to get people through in 10 minutes or less depending on their situations. This change will make everything smoother, quicker and more efficient to help get customers back to work faster,” said Airman 1st Class Jacob Pounds, 11th FSS customer service technician.

The squadron which processed approximately 1,000 ID cards per month

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Airman 1st Class Jacob Pounds, 11th Force Support Squadron customer service technician, completes a customer’s request for a new ID card March 16 on Joint Base Andrews. The Military Personnel Flight recently began prioritizing military members needing new Common Access Cards during lunch hours Monday and Friday to greatly reduce the wait time for uniform wearers while also reducing overall wait time.

in 2014, should be able to get military members their new CACs up to 12 times faster than before, so they’ll be able to focus on the mission, instead of waiting in line.

“We’ve already seen great results in getting our military members back to the fight at faster speeds,” Parker said.

“We’re just doing our part -- supporting the base and its missions.”

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Friday, March 27, 2015

CMSAF spends day with JBA Airmen

BY MASTER SGT. TAMMIE MOORE

AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The 17th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force met with Airmen on JBA to thank them for their contributions to the mission and to personally answer questions about Air Force issues March 23.

“Everybody is working hard; there is a lot going on,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody. “There is never a lack of something to do, but it’s important we take advantage of any opportunity we have to come together. It’s important we engage in a dialogue that you want to talk about. I will listen to everything you have to say.”

During his visit, Cody held three small breakout question and answer sessions with Airmen, many of whom wanted to learn more about the new feedback process and rating system.

Senior Airman Nila

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/MASTER SGT. TAMMIE MOORE

Senior Master Sgt. Marjon Robertson introduces Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody to Airmen assigned to the Air Force District of Washington Manpower, Personnel, and Services directorate during his visit March 23 at Joint Base Andrews. Robertson is the Manpower, Personnel, and Services superintendent.

Curry, 744th Communication Squadron executive assistant, expressed concern that the limited number of top ratings could create a cut-throat environment.

“Team work is a big part of what we do,” Cody said. “No one Airman will ever be better than the

team. If a person does what you described, they just helped us determine who isn’t the top performer. The person who can’t work together doesn’t understand that while your individual effort is important, you are based on merit and the good you do for our Air Force. If you

do things at the cost of everybody else you are not the person we need on our team.”

Cody expanded on this, stating that the new feedback system requires more meaningful and purposeful conversations with Airmen.

“I never improved in

my entire career when someone said ‘Sergeant Cody you are great,’” he said. “Real improvement comes in your life and career when people give you constructive feedback, when you learn something about yourself.

Once you internalize that and make the right steps to move forward you actually do get better. You want (this kind of feedback) as often as you can get it; it’s how you start to advance.”

Cody also offered advice to Airmen on career progression.

“Don’t complicate it,” he said. “Do your best every day. We can’t ask any more than that. Continue to work hard and stay focused on the mission.”

Cody acknowledged the anxiety Airmen have felt during the last two years going through sequestration and force management initiatives.

“We grew up with a sense of stability and this idea that as long as we’re working hard we’re going to have a job and will be ok,” he said. “But over the

last two years, the government shut down and we’ve gone through force management; we’ve had some significant things to work through. It creates anxiety and stress in a way that is not healthy given the fact that we don’t hit the pause button and work through the challenges. From where I stand and what I see, you all are doing the best you can possibly do given the constrained environment we find ourselves in today.

It’s important for you to know we appreciate you and what you do for our Air Force.”

As Cody visited various duty sections meeting with AFDW Airmen, he continued to stress his appreciation of each person and the support their families provide.

“I appreciate what you do every day and your families who support you,” Cody said. “Make sure you thank them.

They are the ones who are there for you no matter what; it’s important that they realize how critical they are.”

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JOBS, from page 1 “We looked at it as something we would want to pursue with Sharp Decisions, who works with servicedisabled veterans that are transitioning out of the military,” said Snyder, a former Navy commander and Desert Storm veteran. “They’re making an investment in these veterans. They train them as a squad, while taking advantage of their military experience, camaraderie, and small-group dynamics and deploy them to the firm as a squad. “ Ted Ryrie, Managing Director, Sharp Decision V.E.T.S. Program manager, noted, “This program came about when we looked at the plight of veterans returning from service trying to get themselves established in the civilian market place and get a career launched. There was an initial class of 16 veterans that went through the training,” said Ryrie.

To date, approximately 75 veterans have been trained successfully through V.E.T.S. during the past two years.

“We’re hoping by the end of the year we’ll be over a 100.

The ultimate goal is to build it up to about 250 graduates,” said Ryrie.

There are about 450 com-

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PHOTO/BOBBY JONES

Jared Baiman (left), Sharp Decisions communication strategist and business development representative, stands with Sharp software quality assurance analyst contract employees, Seth Grosser (center), and Toma Smith who expressed the appreciation for the job opportunity that Sharp Decisions and Freddie Mac have provided.

bined veteran and civilian consultants with the Sharp Decisions Corporation. “We tried to build our training aspects around some of the core values in the military, such as dedication to detail, completing the mission, making sure that you’re helping your buddy,” said Ryrie.

Toma Smith, a V.E.T.S. graduate, mentor and 10-year Air Force veteran is elated with his opportunity of working at Freddie Mac as a software quality assurance ana-

lyst for the past nine months.

“Every day there’s something to learn on the job; that’s what makes it a rich experience. The training I received was really intense and very well structured; without it, I wouldn’t be able to perform my job,” said Smith, who holds a Bachelor and Master’s degree in cyber security from Excelsior College in Albany, NY. Seth Grosser, a Marine veteran of eight years is looking at the future more brightly

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with a wedding engagement on the horizon and a new position at Freddie Mac as a software quality assurance analyst. He recently finished the Boot Camp-style V.E.T.S. Program in four weeks. “They have this unique way of training its employees,” said the 29-year-old Lanham native.

“The program is fast-paced but also full of information.

The great thing about the program is it’s an actual job once you start the program.”

Grosser noted what drew him to the V.E.T.S. program was that it was a way to support his family. “As a combat veteran, we go through a lot.

But it seemed like when a lot of people came home, including myself, the job opportunities were scarce. I had to get experience on my own, which was a hard task for me,” said Grosser, a former Marine infantryman.

Grosser added, “I really have to salute Mrs. Karen Ross, Sharp Decision CEO, for really taking the time and putting her own money up to start this program for veterans like me. The V.E.T.S. program says if we are skilled and know enough we can receive a great opportunity in a great company with benefits to help us reintegrate ourselves back into society.”

NAMI, from page 1 specifically to address the unique interest and concerns that relate to military families, such as deployment concerns, post deployment and post service discharge transitions. The challenges the military population faces are unique to being of a part of military families. “ According Harris, the class will cover details related to various types of mental illnesses and the challenges that are faced as caregivers in providing support.

Participants will learn strategies and community resources outside of what the military has available. The class will also cover the various medications used for the treatment of members who have these mental health conditions.

“This class is an opportunity to also develop friendships among others who are faced with similar challenges. Most people come away from our courses saying they are lifechanging,” Harris said.

The class will have two instructors and will accommodate 10 to 12 people per session and is free to all service branches, active duty and reserve, all ages for military families. To register, call 301-429-0970. For more information, visit www. namipgc.org.

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