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Veteran celebrates 106 years of determination and poise
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Prince George’s group looks for a few good men
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89th Communications Squadron soundly beats 89th Operations Group
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 | VOL. 2 NO. 36
County public safety leaders: ‘The better prepared, the better response’ Officials stress importance of security training in wake of Navy Yard shootings BY CHASE COOK AND JAMIE ANFENSON-COMEAU THE PRINCE GEORGE’S GAZETTE
In the wake of a mass shooting Monday that resulted in the deaths of 12 people at Washington Navy Yard as well as the shooter, Prince George’s County and municipal officials are assuring residents that schools and government buildings are prepared to handle such emergencies. “It was sort of theoretical before, but now it really brings it home to everyone the importance of the training,” Bowie spokeswoman Una Cooper said. The county and several municipalities, including Bowie, hold training where people are taught how to respond in the event of an active shooter threat. On Monday morning, the suspected gunman, Aaron Alexis, 34, of Texas, opened fire in the Washington Navy Yard, killing 12, including Sylvia Frasier, 53, who lived in Prince George’s County with her family before moving to Charles County, according to the FBI and Metropolitan Police Department.
see SECURITY, page 7
Senior Airman remembers 9/11 victims at White House ceremony BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS JOSHUA R. M. DEWBERRY 11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
At 8:46 a.m. on the White House lawn, there was a moment of silence. This was the exact time at which the first plane hit the World Trade Center building in New York City 12 years ago. The morning of Sept. 11, 2013, was sunny, as it was on the day of the 9/11 attack. This moment was etched in the minds of all who attended the 12th 9/11 anniversary memorial ceremony at the White House, but for Senior Airman Joshua Gierucki, 11th Operations Group ceremonial guardsman, it was especially memorable. “This is my first time honoring the fallen in this ceremony,” said Gierucki. “That moment of silence that spread throughout D.C. really spoke to respect and seriousness people have for that day in our nation’s history.” Gierucki was selected out of the 11th OG to represent the Air Force during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the White House.
see 9/11, page 8
Military spouse fulfills childhood dream to write BY BOBBY JONES
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
When most young girls’ thoughts turn to boys, Melissa Coleman, just shy of 14, aspired to write stories fueled by vivid dreams she wanted to share one day with the world. Coleman molded those dreams into the first draft of a book by the age of 16. “The Legend of Wahkan,” was a horror story set in the modern day. She honed her writing skills, tweaking and revising her story, making it more realistic and relevant. Raised by a hard-working, blue collar family with career-driven siblings, Melissa received encouragement from her parents to find a respectable career. Following her brother’s example of going to medical school, Melissa studied nursing at Troy State University School of Nursing in Montgomery Ala.
see SPOUSE, page 7
Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker III (D), left, discusses the need for renovation and preservation of historic Harmony Hall Manor in Fort Washington with Daughters of the American Revolution Harmony Hall Chapter Regent Reisha Raney and National Park Service National Capitol Parks-East Acting Supervisor Ranger Gopaul Nodjibail, who supervises Harmony Hall Manor along with 15 other parks between Fort Washington and the BaltimoreWashington Parkway.
Park Service prepares for Harmony Hall preservation Fort Washington plantation house is a lost, historic gem among abundant D.C. sites STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS BASHAM STAFF WRITER
Tucked in the woods next to Harmony Hall Regional Center in Fort Washington, Md. is a mansion with stories to tell of the history of Prince George’s County’s culture and industry from as long ago as the 1660s. Purchased originally as a 500-acre tract, Harmony Hall now comprises 62.5 acres of open pasture land and a mansion built in the late 1760s, with additions made over the centuries. The property is also the site of what is believed to be the oldest man-made canal in the United States, leading to Broad Creek, a tributary to the Potomac River. Another structure on the property, Want Water, was reportedly built using the first known set of architectural plans in the U.S. During the colonial period, Harmony Hall’s tobacco crop
was worked by enslaved people. It thrived, alongside other Maryland tobacco plantations, until an oversilted Potomac River and other changes after the American Revolution caused tobacco to fall out of favor as a chief crop, said National Park Service Ranger Bambi Sears on a recent tour of the property. Sears explained that by the time Silesia, Germany native Robert Stein purchased the property in the 1890s it had become neglected. He and his brother Richard turned it into a working farm, until they sold the property in the 1920s to Charles Collins, who then built an addition to the mansion as part of his efforts to recreate a “southern plantation” atmosphere. “It’s this gorgeous, Georgian architecture with an addition. It kind of muddies the story, a little bit,” said National Park Service Ranger Elizabeth Jackson. There is more than a little actual mud, on site, as well. The property, currently owned and managed by the National Park Service, experienced extensive damage due to recent hurricanes, with downed trees making access to the Want Water portion of the property challenging. Douglas Bradburn, founding director of the new George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate Library, called Harmony Hall, “a beautiful building with a great structure.
see HARMONY HALL, page 5
Eagle Scouts soar from Troop 487 Scouts pinned in Fort Washington ceremony STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS BASHAM STAFF WRITER
When the storms come, eagles soar. For seven young Prince George’s County men, pinned to Eagle Scout at a Court of Honor ceremony held Sept. 7 at Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church in Fort Washington, Md., determination and the support of loving mentors and parents have worked together to evade the storms of life, bringing honor to their community and to Boy Scout Troop 487, known for mentoring more AfricanAmerican Eagle Scouts than any other troop in the nation. To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, each young man completed a project aimed at improving his community, while testing his leadership skills. Javonté Parrish Brown, 16, created a bullying awareness and prevention program for elementary, middle and high school students and their parents. Brandon Ryshawn Cherry, 15,
built a footbridge over a ravine on a walking trail in Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, Md. To read about the project and see photos of Brandon’s footbridge, visit www. dcmilitary.com/article/20130419/ NEWS09/130419802/0/SEARCH. Breion Goodson, 18, refurbished the fellowship hall of Randall Memorial United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C.’s Deanwood neighborhood. Ra’John Madison, 16, hosted a “Boys to Men” program aimed at helping teenage boys transition to manhood. Christopher Mason, 19, organized a clothing drive for the people of Haiti. Nathan W. Tanner, 18, developed an awareness campaign on the dangers of texting while driving, securing 150 pledges from individuals not to text and drive. Preston White, 16, created an accessible vegetable garden for senior residents of the Koehler House shelter. The young men join 90 other Troop 487 Eagle Scouts pinned to the honor since 1992. Several of Troop 487’s fellow Eagles participated in the ceremony, including Ebenezer AME youth minister the Rev. Akil Dickens, who achieved the rank of Eagle in 1994, after what might have seemed to be an inauspicious start in Scouting.
Troop 487 Scoutmaster Mark Adams pins Javonté Parrish Brown, 16, to Eagle Scout.
“They forced me in here, but it was one of the greatest blessings of my life,” said Dickens. “The rank of an Eagle Scout, for an African-American in this community, in this country,
see SCOUTS, page 4
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Andrews Gazette
HOT TICKETS
Commentary
Shots fired, closer to home
Around Town
September 20
Rumba Club concert Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. Hear classic, Latin-infused jazz, performed live. For information visit www.pgparks.com.
September 21
H Street Festival 400 block - 1400 block, H Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. Noon - 7 p.m. More than 50 artists and 80 performances on 10 stages, international and local vendors, community organizations, contests, boxing, martial arts demonstrations, children’s activities and more celebrate all that is great about this unique neighborhood. For information visit www.hstreet.org.
September 21-22
Charm City’s Ya Gotta Regatta Downtown Sailing Center, 1425 Key Highway, Baltimore, Md. Races all day, both days Bring friends and a boat to take part in a fundraiser for educational and recreational programs for at-risk youth and youth with disabilities. To register visit www.downtownsailing.org/charmcitysyagottaregatta.
September 22
Cavalcade of Street Cars National Capital Trolley Museum, 1313 Bonifant Road, Colesville, Md. Noon - 5 p.m. Ride European trams and North American street cars, learn about the role of street cars in developing communities, and see Harold Lloyd’s silent film comedies. For information visit www.dctrolley.org.
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.
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01040405B
Friday, September 20, 2013
BY CHRIS BASHAM STAFF WRITER
Monday morning, fully at work but half asleep and waiting for the caffeine to kick in, and shots had been fired at the Navy Yard. I have been to the Navy Yard, for meetings. I have coworkers and old friends working there. It seemed, when I went, to be very secure. Certainly, as a visiting contractor, I felt as if I always went through more than enough security. An irritating level of security, as it is everywhere, these days, when it seems all it does is slow down the law-abiding people trying to get through their work day or board a flight or remember all the passwords on their “more secure” online communications. Did security stop the shooter this week? Do passes and screenings and taking off your shoes in the airport ever stop that sort of evil? I’m not sure. Today, though, it is clear that no matter what motivated suspected gunman Aaron Alexis and no matter what precautions were taken at the Navy Yard or in the past by those who encouraged Alexis to leave the Navy with an honorable discharge years ago, none of it was enough to protect the twelve people he is alleged to have killed, and the larger group of people he injured, before Alexis was himself shot to death.
At this point, there is a lot we don’t know, and since the shooter is not available to testify we may never know what he was trying to achieve. But we can know this: A dozen people lost their lives for no good reason, on a beautiful, fall day. Michael Arnold, 59, of Lorton, Va. Martin Bodrog, 54, of Annandale, Va. Arthur Daniels, 51, of Washington, D.C. Sylvia Frasier, 53, of Waldorf, Md. Kathleen Gaarde, 62, of Woodbridge, Va. John Roger Johnson, 73, of Derwood, Md. Mary Francis Knight, 51, of Reston, Va. Frank Kohler, 50, of Tall Timbers, Md. Vishnu Pandit, 61, of North Potomac, Md. Kenneth Bernard Proctor, 46, of Waldorf, Md. Gerald L. Read, 58, of Alexandria, Va. Richard Michael Ridgell, 52, of Westminster, Md. All were civilians, and at press time there is no indication that they were specifically targeted by Alexis or that they knew him before the attack. Maybe they were just all spectacularly unlucky to be in the path of evil when it hit. In years to come, people will remember the shooter. This week, let’s try to take a moment to remember those who lost their lives on an otherwise ordinary Monday morning.
Retiree Corner COURTESY OF THE RETIREE ACTIVITIES OFFICE
TFL is “second payer” insurance
TRICARE For Life is Tricare’s Medicare-wraparound coverage, available to all Medicare-eligible TRICARE beneficiaries, regardless of age or place of residence, provided they have Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. With TFL, Medicare becomes the primary insurance, and TRICARE acts as a secondary payer, which minimizes out-of-pocket expenses. There is no paperwork associated with TFL and beneficiaries automatically gain coverage when they meet the requirements. A six-page fact sheet and 40-page handbook on TFL are available at www.Tricare.mil/publications. Wisconsin Physicians Service is the contractor that administers TFL and
should be your primary contact for TRICARE-related customer service.
Campus assistance expands
The Department of Veterans Affairs has added 62 new locations offering the VetSuccess on Campus program, bringing the number of VSOC schools to 94. Locally, the program is now available at George Washington University, George Mason University and at Northern Virginia Community College campuses in Alexandria and Annandale. Placing experienced VA counselors on campuses strengthens VA’s partnership with colleges and creates opportunities to help veterans. Counselors maintain close relationships with local Vet Centers and VA medical facilities, referring veterans as needed for counseling or medical services. Partner schools provide oncampus office space. Since the inception of the
Post-9/11 GI Bill four years ago, VA has issued approximately $30 billion in payments to help nearly 1 million service members, veterans and family members pursue their education.
Arlington National Cemetery adds 42 acres
Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 military members and their families. The cemetery’s 624 acres will grow by another 42 acres this fall with the addition of land from the former “Navy Annex” along Columbia Pike. Eight four-story wings at the annex were originally built in the 1940s as temporary warehouse space. For more than 50 years it served as Marine Corps headquarters. In 2004, the wing nearest the Pentagon was demolished to make room for the Air Force Memorial.
see RETIREE, page 6
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Andrews Gazette
Friday, September 20, 2013
JBA Buzz
Veteran celebrates 106 years of determination and poise
Should we be involved in Syria?
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS BASHAM STAFF WRITER
Kealani Manglicnot
Alyce Dixon served her country in World War II as one of the first African-American women to serve in the U.S. Army, but she has always been in charge of her own destiny.
ly filled with homemade cakes, breads, cookies and fried chicken attracted another army to the post office. “With all those greasy packages, we had mice and rats to fight, too,” Dixon said. Despite their best efforts, sometimes the Soldiers could not identify the intended recipient of those packages. When forced to abandon hope, they’d take the canned goods back to their barracks and share them amongst themselves, telling each other that the food had come from their own grandmothers back home. “It was a lot of hard work, but we did it,” said Dixon. After the war, the Dunbar High School graduate returned to the Pentagon, working as a purchasing agent until her retirement in 1973. She continued to cut her own path, doing things other women of her time might not attempt. “I had a car in 1954, when few women had a car. I was taking people to the store, to the doctor. I am so glad gas wasn’t $4 a gallon
Priyaclarshini Persaud
back then,” Dixon said. A 75-year member of Jones United Methodist Church in N.E. Washington. D.C., Dixon credits her long life to her habit of sharing what she has, and caring for others. “Rich people, they have money in the bank, but you can’t take it with you. You’re going to leave it here. Uncle Sam’s going to spend it. Spend it yourself to help someone; you’ll feel much better,” Dixon said. Married for 13 years, Dixon left when her husband became too controlling. “When he found out I was going to rent an apartment on my own, earning just $25 a week, he said, ‘You can’t make it on that,’ and I said, ‘We’ll see. We’ll try. I have it all arranged. I’ll do fine. Don’t worry about it,’” Dixon remembers. She moved out, found a friend to rent the apartment’s bedroom and lived in the living room until her income improved. Today, she tells young people, especially girls, “Go learn something. Get
Kabriea Robinson Clinton, Md.
Mother will continue attempts to get case reopened BY CHASE COOK
THE PRINCE GEORGE’S GAZETTE
After more than 20 years of fighting to reopen the case on her son’s death, Dorothy Elliott finally got an extended meeting with the Prince George’s County state’s attorney — but the answer was still the same. The county won’t take another look at the case. Elliott, of Forestville, met Sept. 11 with county State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks,
who denied Elliott’s request to reopen the case on her son, Elliott said. Archie Elliott III, 24, of Forestville, was shot by Prince George’s police officer Wayne Cheney and District Heights police officer Jason Leavitt after they claimed he attempted to fire a gun at them while handcuffed in the front seat of a police cruiser. Archie Elliott had been handcuffed and placed into the car after being pulled over for drunk driving, according to police records. He was hit 14 times after the officers fired 22 bullets from their handguns. Both officers were not indicted in 1994 after a seven-month investigation. “We believe these police officers should be indicted,” Dorothy Elliott said.
see ATTORNEY, page 8
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see VETERAN, page 8
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“Morally, I don’t agree with America taking military action in Syria. However, I also don’t know what will keep our country safe. My view is that Obama will make the right decision for our nation. I pray it’s a nonviolent one on both sides.”
County attorney won’t reopen 20-year case
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“As a 22-year-old, I feel we should just mind our own business for once. Because we really don’t have anyone to back us up. We should just worry about our own country.”
District Heights, Md.
The caption for the photo attached to last week’s story,“89th Airlift Wing welcomes new commander,” was incorrect. The correction caption should have read as follows: Col. Michael A. Minihan, right, relinquishes command to Lt. Gen. Darren W. McDew at the 89th Airlift Wing Change of Command on Joint Base Andrews, Md., Sept. 6, 2013. McDew, the commander of the 18th Air Force presided of the ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Aaron Stout)
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Alyce Dixon was working in the human resources department at the Pentagon--the newly built Pentagon--when she noticed a few small, white marks on her neck. “I thought the Army was the best at everything, and they would have the best medical care, so I joined,” Dixon said. “I went to the Army doctor, and asked if they could remove the spots, and he said, ‘Don’t bother. You’re going to be white anyway, eventually.’” Dixon’s new diagnosis of vitiligo, an incurable pigmentation and autoimmune disorder in which skin loses its natural pigmentation over time, led her to start covering the pale patches with cosmetics. Eventually, the Army doctors were proven correct: At 106 years of age, Dixon’s skin is almost entirely white. During World War II, the Boston native was among the first AfricanAmerican women to serve in the U.S. Army. “I worked in the post office in France. There were 92 billion pieces of mail to be delivered. There had been three battles, and no mail had been delivered,” remembered Dixon. “They brought in 500 Negro women, and the generals said it would take six months to deliver all that mail. We did it in three.” Beyond the sheer volume of mail, the women of the 6888th Battalion also had to overcome nonstandardized addresses on many pieces of mail. “A lot of the Southern mothers would write on the envelope, ‘Robert, U.S. Army;’ ‘Buster, U.S. Army’ or ‘my Dear Boys, U.S. Army.’ We’d look at the place of origin of the letter and figure out who it was meant for,” Dixon said. Care packages loving-
“I don’t believe that we should get involved with Syria because I’m worried about their allies Russia, China and Iran retaliating. This could possibly start another world war.”
“I feel like we shouldn’t get involved with Syria, unless it’s totally necessary. I personally don’t feel like it’s our business.”
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Andrews Gazette
Friday, September 20, 2013
SCOUTS, from page 1
Brian Delate, actor and Vietnam War veteran, was among the featured speakers at a 2013 Warrior-Family Symposium held Sept. 12 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. Delate addressed his fight against PTSD after serving as a soldier in Vietnam. Delate is best known for portraying Walter Moore/Kirk Burbank in the 1998 Paramount film The Truman Show.
Symposium explores healing process BY BOBBY JONES
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The 2013 Warrior-Family Symposium, co-sponsored by the Military Officers Association of America and the National Defense Industrial Association, hosted discussions on improving the physical, psychological and overall well-being of wounded, ill and injured service members and their families. Among the keynote speakers were Senator Bernie Sanders, (I-Vt.) Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, Gen. John F. Campbell, vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, ABC News anchor Scott Thurman, Alex Quade, freelance war reporter and various military and civilian physical and mental health care professionals.
Col. Melanie Prince, chief, Strategic Medical Plans Office of the Air Force Surgeon General, talks with retired Col. Jesus G. Ramirez Jr., Military Officers Association of America Deputy Director, Contract Services and Marketing (Guard Affairs) during a break at the 2013 Warrior-Family Symposium in the Atrium of Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.
speaks volumes.” Maryland Senator C. Anthony Muse (D-Dist. 26), who presented certificates of achievement to the newly pinned Scouts, agreed with that assessment, and charged the Eagles with continuing their efforts to show the good things young African-American men are doing in Prince George’s County. “No matter how many times we present certificates to you and no matter how many times you receive these awards, I hope you show others a role model, that we have great young people in our community,” Muse said. The Rev. Dr. Jerome Tarver, associate minister of Maple Springs Baptist Church in Capitol Heights, Md., reminded the boys that the challenges they faced as they earned their Eagle rank have value that will help them in life, just as storms, “help to protect and shape the eagle. Eagles can soar while others fail.” “Because they have struggled, they now have
Maryland Senator C. Anthony Muse (D-Dist. 26) presents a certificate of achievement from the Maryland General Assembly to Breion Goodson, 18, as Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Obie Patterson (D-Dist. 8) looks on.
the strength to overcome,” said Tarver. “If we take away the struggle, we take away the strength.” Troop 487 Scoutmaster Mark Adams, in his remarks, recounted memories of each young man’s Scouting career. “The last question I ask is, ‘Are you ready to be an Eagle?’,” explained Adams of the preparations he makes with each prospective Eagle Scout. “The cool thing is, I already know they’re ready, because I watched them grow.”
Ra’Jhon Madison, 16, pins his parents Marcus Madison and Rochelle Smallwood in honor of their effort and support in helping him achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.
Rev. Akil Dickens, right, Minister to Youth for Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church in Fort Washington, Md. and himself an Eagle Scout, tells the new Eagles, “they forced me in here, but it was one of the greatest blessings of my life. The rank of an Eagle Scout for an African American in this community, in this country, speaks volumes.”
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Andrews Gazette
Friday, September 20, 2013
Prince George’s group looks for a few good men BY BOBBY JONES
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Just like the Marines, the Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County are always looking for a few good men. Their goal is to recruit young, AfricanAmerican men ages 21 and older to mentor fatherless, black area boys. Kevin Hicks, President of CBM of Prince George’s County, opened the doors of the business he co-owns, Annie’s Art Gallery in Camp Springs, Md., for an Open House Meet and Greet Sept. 4 to raise awareness of CBM’s efforts and recruit prospective mentors. “I knew that when I first joined this organization I wanted to be community-based. So, I talked with our corporate office located in D.C. to ask them: Out of 30-plus chapters, which was the most successful,” said Hicks. On a recommendation from headquarters, a group from CBM Prince George’s took a road trip to see what made the South Carolina chapter stand out. “What we found out was, it wasn’t just the men there who were mentoring the boys; it was the community behind the men who were mentoring the boys as well,” said Hicks. “So, when we came back here we changed our format. We invited the community to come out and meet our mentors and mentees and see what we were doing and get them behind us to show them that we can really make a difference out here,” said Hicks. “Our primary focus now is to get the community behind us.” Guest speaker Prince George’s County Council Member Mel Franklin, (D-9th Dist.), praised the commitment of CBM of Prince George’s County’s 47 members. “Beyond being an elected official, just being a father, a husband: I just want to thank the Concerned Black Men for God’s work that you’re doing in the community. I appreciate you, because really don’t have to be here. You have families, businesses and jobs that you could be doing; things that you could be doing for yourselves, but you’re here,” said Franklin. “We just had the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington and President Obama’s described marching as not being just the physical act of marching. It’s also the work that is being done in the communities. It’s organizations like Concerned Black Men and (Cheltenham, Md.-based) SISTAS UNITED Inc. who are doing the work when
Kevin Hicks, Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County president, welcomes CBM members and guests to an Open House CBM chapter meeting Sept. 4.
there aren’t any crowds saluting you or pep rallies; when no one’s looking, but you’re still focused in doing the work. And you’re still marching. And that’s what the president meant by continuing the march.” Percy Williams, CBM of Prince George’s County treasurer, said that Concerned Black Men was established in 1975 by five black police officers in Philadelphia. Since then, CBM has expanded to 38 cities throughout the U.S., and in Africa as well. “Our mission is to improve the quality of life of AfricanAmerican males in middle school by providing youth with inspiration through positive role models that mirror their image,” said Williams. CBM President Kevin Hicks said that the organization’s mission has two parts. “CBM CARES is the first part. It’s like our right arm. They set up the program which includes school visits, field trips and they also provide training sessions for us every third Wednesday on how to be mentors. Being a mentor is not that easy. The CBM CARES organization has taught us how to deal with single-parent homes, and sometimes no-parent environments. We realize that the issues of today are different than they were 20 years ago. We in turn provide the muscle and do the leg work. That’s our job and we’re growing as we go along,” said Hicks. “It’s been a great ride, but we’re just getting started.” Hicks’ protege, Terrel Talbert, 12, a seventh grader at Thurgood Marshall Middle School, gave a personal perspective on what the
Kevin Hicks, Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County president, hugs his protege, Terrel Talbert, 12, Thurgood Marshall Middle School student during a CBM Open House chapter meeting held Sept. 4 at Annie’s Art Gallery in Camp Springs.
mentoring program meant to him. “I’ve only heard from two organizations; The Pen or Pencil and Concerned Black Men,” said Talbert. “The Pen or Pencil organization taught us that either we could take a bus to the penitentiary or to education. I wanted to take the bus to education. But I first got interested in the Concerned Black Men program when they came to my school and talked about taking us on fun, cultural and educational field trips. That’s what really caught my eye at the moment,” said Talbert. “They also talked to us about African-American kids dropping out of school and ending up in the penitentiary. So I was glad to have them talk to us and encourage us about the positive things of going to school. They told us what we need to do to achieve our goals and believe in ourselves.” Talbert has become a fixture at his mentor’s business, soaking up inspiration at the gallery and occasionally sharing lunch and conversation. “I really like coming, looking at art. I’m in an art class and I like coming here and seeing all types of art things and masterpieces here. I really like it here and the things that Mr. Hicks has taught me.” Asked about the mentoring experience, Talbert smiled and said, “In one word: Awesome.” Nikki Pearson, CBM CARES office manager, said the CBM
Charles Vigil Williams, right, Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County vice president, talks with guest speaker, Mel Franklin, left, Prince George’s County Council member (D-Dist. 9) before a CBM Open House chapter meeting Sept. 4 in Camp Springs, Md.
CARES program was birthed out of the CBM’s national organization in Washington, D.C. “It wasn’t enough to just do things in the community, which the organization focused on primarily African-American boys, but we found through statistics and research that boys transition and transform their lives when there’s a male presence; not just when mentors go into the community, but it’s been proven that when men go into the schools during the day and spend time with the boys their academic scores increase, their grade levels elevate, and attendance goes up,” added Pearson. “And these are the things that we focus on
at CBM CARES.” The CBM of Prince George’s County provides support to students in five Prince George’s County schools: Oxon Hill Middle School, Thurgood Marshall Middle School, Isaac Gourdine Middle School and Forest Heights and Glassmanor Elementary Schools. If you are 21 or older and are interested in becoming a mentor, or for more information, contact the Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County at 240392-2288 or visit: www.cbmnational.org/chapters/#MD. The Concerned Black Men of Prince George’s County facility is located at 5211 Auth Road, Suite 202-B, Suitland, Md. 20746.
HARMONY HALL, from page 1 It’s got a great history.” Tied in with other historic plantation properties in the county, Bradburn said, “it might be able to tell a story of the Chesapeake, from tobacco to wheat,” especially if slave quarters and other outbuildings on the property could be located and investigated for preservation and presentation to the public. “If you can locate the outbuildings, the slave quarters, it could be a very rich site.” Over time, water damage has led to structural instability and the presence of black mold. Combined with lead paint throughout the structure, it is not currently seen as safe for visits by the public. There are people working to change that, however, in honor of Prince George’s County’s past. “I’ve only been here two years. I’m not sure why we let it go,” said National Park Service National Capitol Parks-East Acting Supervisor Ranger Gopaul Nodjibail, who supervises Harmony Hall Manor along with 15 other parks between Fort Washington and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. “This site is like Arlington House, and like (several sites of African American significance in and around Washington, D.C.): The Carter G. Woodson house, Frederick Douglass’ house, and the home of Mary McCleod Bethune. If it were in the Midwest or West, it would be its own park, with its own supervisor, but it just gets lost,” surrounded by so many other local properties of historical significance. Harmony Hall Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is named after the property, and is working to raise awareness of its need for preservation and repair. Chapter Chaplain Carol Tilch lives right across the street from Harmony Hall. Her husband’s great-uncle was Robert Stein, who left the property in his brother Richard’s care while he went on expeditions with Admiral Robert Peary. Today, Tilch works with the DAR and the Silesa, Md. Citizens’ Association to maintain interest in the site.
Though the public can visit the grounds, the interior of Harmony Hall Manor in Fort Washington, Md., is currently closed to visitors because of structural damage and the presence of black mold and lead.
“It’s just important. We want to do something about it We don’t want to put up a sign someday to say, ‘Here Once Stood,’” said Tilch, who is working to form a Friends of Harmony Hall organization to raise funds for work on the property. Nodjibail said that the National Park Service has commissioned a structural research study of the property to find out what preservation efforts will entail. “Our goal is to use as much of the original material as possible,” said Nodjibail. “That’s not a cheap endeavor.” The Park Service is creating a “foundation statement” balancing the needs of “a lot of stakeholders (who) have varying, competing interests as far as how to use the site,” Nodjibail said. Once the foundation statement is completed in March, the Park Service will spend approximately two years developing a concept plan for the property.
“We’re looking for funding sources, now,” said Nodjibail. “It could become anything from a museum house to offices. We don’t know what we want to do with it yet, but we want to be sure it’s sustainable.” Ongoing attention to historic sites in the area created by recreational trails such as the Star Spangled Banner Trail and commemorations of the War of 1812 “have raised an interest,” in colonial and early American sites such as Harmony Hall, said Jackson. On a recent tour of Harmony Hall, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker III (D) praised the property’s potential as a tool for educating the county’s youth on Prince George’s County’s role in national history. “The War of 1812 was our shining moment--albeit we ran--but it’s a great opportunity to gin up support for the develop-
Peek through the doorway at Harmony Hall Manor to see the scroll work on the stairway, which is original to the home. Harmony Hall Manor is believed to have been built in 1769.
ment of historic preservation in the county at places like Harmony Hall, as we also do development like at National Harbor,” Baker said. “For the kids who are going to Oxon Hill High School, they don’t have a clue (about the slave-owning heritage of Prince George’s County plantations). This would be really valuable.” Nodjibail admits that the Park Service has yet to tap into the recreational interest the site could raise among the public, saying, “Harmony Hall is one of the sites that needs some care, here. We at the National Park Service want to make sure we can fold in early with county and local efforts, and not come in a year after the plans have been made.”
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Andrews Gazette
Fitness tip: Better sit down for this
Friday, September 20, 2013
89TH COMMUNICATION SQUADRON SOUNDLY BEATS 89TH OPERATIONS GROUP
BY SABINE LOPEZ
FITNESS AND OPERATIONS SPECIALIST WEST FITNESS CENTER
Most people don’t think too much about their digestive system, except when they’re hungry. And almost no one thinks specifically about their lower digestive system (small intestine and large intestine or colon), because for the most part people’s lower gastrointestinal tracts work wonderfully well with a minimum of maintenance. Except when it doesn’t. When you have diarrhea, constipation or any other problems down there, it’s pretty much not possible to think of anything else! Lower gastrointestinal distress is almost always a symptom, not a stand-alone issue. You might have gas or bloating, or constipation or diarrhea – the thing to keep in mind is that these symptoms point to something else going on in your body, and you will do well to pay attention to those signs. The good news is that with regular, healthy lifestyle choices you can get your lower digestive system back on track, and aim for further prevention efforts throughout your life. The best cures for lower GI stress are pretty sensible for any healthy lifestyle: Get plenty of sleep, learn how to manage stress well, eat lots of whole fiber, drink lots of water, and get lots of exercise. This is important: Any large-scale physical, social, or emotional changes in your life – even healthy changes – can temporarily upset your digestive system. You might find that if you increase your exercise or fiber intake, your lower GI tract will react in a negative way. This is temporary; you know you’re making healthy choices, and your body will regulate relatively quickly to the new lifestyle. First, stay hydrated. Some people debate how much water a person should drink for optimal health, but almost no one argues that we’re getting too much water. Think about that, and try to drink around a glass of water every hour, and even more while you’re working out. Second, limit fats, excessive caffeine, and alcohol. This doesn’t mean you should cut all of this stuff out; rather, practice moderation in all things. For example, it’s a fact that your body needs some fat in order to digest and use certain other vitamins, so don’t try to go to a no-fat diet! Third, eat more whole grains and fiber. Fiber keeps everything moving smoothly in your lower GI tract. Fiber also slows digestion so you feel fuller longer, and it helps keep your blood sugar from spiking or dropping. That means no sugar high and no “bonking” at 2 p.m., if you keep your fiber intake high. The big stars of this show are broccoli, cauliflower, kale and other dark-green leafy vegetables, almonds and berries. Fourth, consider that most Americans eat way too quickly. Take your time as you eat, even thinking about chewing more slowly. Digestion begins in the mouth: When you eat more slowly, you give your body the chance to give digestion a healthy start. Finally, understand that physical activity speeds up digestion, but in a good way. Vigorous physical activity makes all of your muscles move, including those in your lower GI tract. Grab some water, eat some fiber and get moving – and you’ll be “regular” in no time!
PHOTOS/BOBBY JONES
Patrick Hennessey, 89th Communications Squadron defensive cornerback, evades an 89th Operations Group player after making his second interception.
The 89th Communication Squadron Intramural Flag Football team won against the 89th Operations Group Sept. 17 with a final score of 39 to 0, elevating their regular season standing to 3-0.
Left: Matthew Miller, 89th Communications Squadron quarterback, runs a quarterback-draw play against a wilting 89th Operations Group defenses in the first half.
Germaude Sanders, 89th Communications Squadron running back, right, attempts to catch a ten-yard reception near the end zone, during the second half.
2013 JBA Flag Football Standings Talking Baseball: TEAM VR- 53 11 SFG 11 CES AFDW 89 COMM 779 MDG 744 COMM 89 APS 89 MXG NGB 811 OG FRC MA PAG 11 LRS 89 OPS GP 113th WING
WON 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
LOSS TOTAL GAMES WIN % 0 1 100% 0 1 100% 0 1 100% 0 1 100% 0 2 100% 0 1 100% 0 2 100% 0 0 0% 0 0 0% 1 1 0% 1 1 0% 1 1 0% 2 2 0% 2 2 0% 1 1 0% 1 1 0% 9 Through Week #1
RETIREE, from page 2 The additional cemetery space is part of a continuing expansion for both in-ground and above-ground burials at Arlington. A ninth Columbarium Court will provide some 20,000 niches and inurnment space for up to 40,000 veterans and family members. Plans also are being developed for a 30-acre site adjacent to the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall area. The Retiree Activities Office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visit the office in Building 1604 at California and Colorado Avenues or call us at 301-9812726. Our e-mail address is rao@andrews.af.mil. Call the office before your visit to ensure a volunteer is on duty. The RAO has a website at www.andrews.af.mil; Under “Helpful Links” click on “Retirees Activity Office” for information on retiree subjects, including past copies of “Retiree Corner.”
Elimination time BY LT. COL. LANCE RODGERS
American League East
As of Tuesday, Sept. 17, the Boston Red Sox have 11 games remaining in the regular season and a 9-game lead over the second-place Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East. Short of a total collapse, the Red Sox should clinch the division this week. They have the best record in baseball with 92-59. David Ortiz leads the team in average (.311), home runs (27), and runs batted in (94). Pitcher Jon Lester leads the team in wins (14) and strikeouts (165). The Rays (82-67) are one game ahead of the Texas Rangers in the American League Wild Card race. The Baltimore Orioles trail the Rays by three games and are likely to be eliminated this week. The New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays have already been eliminated. No playoffs for Mariano Rivera as he closes his hall-of-fame career.
American League Central
The Detroit Tigers have a comfortable, six-game lead over the Cleveland Indians. Miguel Cabrera has 12 games left to catch Chris Davis in home runs to win a consecutive triple crown. Davis has 50 compared to Cabrera’s 43 homers, so Cabrera would have to get really hot to have a chance. However, it’s still been another very impressive season for the
Tiger’s slugger. Tigers’ pitcher Max Scherzer leads the majors in wins with 19. The Kansas City Royals are two games behind the Indians but are likely to be eliminated this week. The Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox are already done.
American League West
The red-hot Oakland Athletics have zoomed past the slumping Texas Rangers to take a six and a half-game lead. Pitcher Bartolo Colon has 16 wins and is one of five A’s pitchers with 10 or more wins this season. The Rangers, who have lost nine of their last 10 games, will need to turn things around quickly to challenge the Rays for the Wild Card slot. The Los Angeles Angels, Seattle Mariners, and Houston Astros have all been eliminated in the AL West.
National League East
The Atlanta Braves are still on top with an 89-60 record. They have a 10-game lead over the Washington Nationals with only 13 games left, so they should clinch the division this week. Chris Johnson leads the team with a .330 batting average. The second-place Nationals will require
cooperation from three teams in the Central division to have a chance to make the playoffs for the second year in a row. The Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Miami Marlins are done for the year.
National League Central
This is the most exciting race right now. The Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals are tied for the division lead with 87-63 records. The Cincinnati Reds are only 2.5 games back. Whoever finishes second in this division will likely be the National League Wild Card team. The Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs are also done for the season.
National League West
The Los Angeles Dodgers cooled down for the first half of September, but still have a nine-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. The San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, and Colorado Rockies have all been eliminated. Lt. Col. Rodgers, the former administrator for the 779th Medical Group, has moved to the DoD IG team, but will continue to provide baseball commentary through the rest of the season. Rodgers was drafted by the White Sox organization as a utility infielder after college but was cut when Jose Mota, Manny Mota’s son, signed.
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Andrews Gazette
Friday, September 20, 2013
Ask the Lawyer: Is it simple assault, or assault consummated by a battery? BY MATHEW B. TULLY
Q. What’s the difference between simple assault and assault consummated by a battery? A. When service members hear the term “assault,” they often think of some type of fight or attack. However, fists do not have to fly for a service member to commit assault in violation of Article 128 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. In fact, one person does not even have to physically harm another person for an Article 128 violation to occur. Keep in mind, an “assault” is not one person’s physically harming someone else. Instead, it is “an attempt or offer with unlawful force or violence to do bodily harm to another, whether or not the attempt or offer is consummated.” When a service member attempts or offers to do bodily harm to someone through the use of unlawful force or violence, he or she commits simple assault, according to the Manual for Courts-Martial. In contrast, when physical contact is made and “bodily harm was done with unlawful force or violence,” the assault is consummated (i.e., completed) by a battery, according to the Manual. Bodily harm, however, is not limited to the infliction of harm caused by punching or kicking. It means “any offensive touching of another, however slight.” As the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces noted in U.S. v. Benjiman Johnson (2000), even back rubs or a kiss could qualify as offensive touching. Under certain circumstances, the court added, the slightest touch could amount to an assault consummated by a battery when it is done without the victim’s lawful consent. There are, however,
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situations under which a service member can touch someone without consent and not worry about an assault consummated by a battery charge. These situations, identified by the Manual, include the accidental touching of another, so long as there is no culpable negligence, such as tapping someone’s shoulder to get his or her attention, or moving him or her out of harm’s way. Johnson, for example, involved an Army staff sergeant who was found guilty at general court-martial of, among other things, assault consummated by a battery. His charge stemmed from back rubs he had repeatedly given to a specialist while she was working. The back rubs made her feel uncomfortable and she attempted to deflect the staff sergeant’s massages by shrugging her shoulders. Noting that the staff sergeant and specialist had engaged in various other forms of touching, including hugging and tickling, and there was no indication the specialist felt incapable of protesting the back rubs, the court found the staff sergeant’s action’s did not qualify as assault consummated by a battery. Service members charged with any kind off assault should immediately contact a military law attorney. Depending on the circumstances, an attorney could show there was no intent to inflict bodily harm, any force used was not unlawful, or that the touching was consensual. Mathew B. Tully is an Iraq war veteran and founding partner of the law firm Tully Rinckey PLLC. Email questions to askthelawyer@fedattorney.com. The information in this column is not intended as legal advice.
SPOUSE, from page 1 Although she loved helping people, she wasn’t happy. At 19, she realized being a nurse wasn’t for her. She had decisions to make about her future. Today Coleman has an active, 2-year-old son, named Patrick, two girls; Gracie, 7, and Brooke, 4 and is happily married to Master Sgt. Eric Sharman, 459th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. She enjoys working with children as a lead preschool teacher at the J.P. Hoyer Child Development Center on Joint Base Andrews. Although Coleman has a full life, her dream of becoming a published author never left. “I finally found my calling when Eric picked me up off my feet and brought me up from Alabama here. I feel really good about where I’m at now. I picked my book back up in November 2011 and didn’t put it down until I finished this past June,” said
SECURITY, from page 1 “She was a real jewel,” said Frasier’s sister, Lindlee Frasier. “It was unbelievable she died the way she did. It was unfathomable.” Alexis was killed by police, according to MPD. A motive is still being determined. Laurel Police Chief Richard McLaughlin took an opportunity during a Monday meeting with Laurel school principals to remind them of the county’s active shooter training. McLaughlin said the police department will schedule the training with any business or entity that requests it. Any location can have an active shooter, he said. “The more informed, the better prepared, the better the response,” McLaughlin said. Bowie offers active shooter training for city employees. The training program, which was held in July at the Bowie Town Center, is effective to prepare city employees for an active shooter situation, Cooper said.
Melissa Sharman copy edits her manuscript at her home on Joint Base Andrews.
Coleman. “I thought I’d never really see this day. I wondered if it would ever happen. But without the motivation and loyal support of my husband I wouldn’t have finished it. He allowed me to come home every night from my job and work on the book for hours on end.” A staunch supporter of his wife, Master Sgt. Sharman recently launched a campaign on charity drive website Kickstarter.com, to raise funds for the book project. “We launched the fundraiser on September 4 and were able to raise our $2,500 goal in seven June Evans, president of the Robert Goddard French Immersion PTA, said the Navy Yard shootings brought a renewed focus to security issues at her fifth-grader’s school. The biggest security concerns are the school’s temporary buildings that house the fifth and sixth grades behind the school building and are easily accessed from a nearby wooded area, she said. The school remains unlocked so students in the temporary buildings can access the bathrooms and go to lunch, Evans said. “From a parent’s perspective, it automatically made me think of what happened in Connecticut last year,” said Evans, referring to the Dec. 14 school shooting in Newtown, Conn., that left 26 dead. “It really brings to mind those feelings of, ‘Are our schools really safe?’” Prince George’s County Public Schools spokesman Max Pugh said the school system has scheduled a lockdown drill Sept. 26 at all schools. The drill is not in response to the Navy Yard shoot-
days. But the Kickstarter page will stay open for anyone who would like to donate to the project until October 4,” said Sharman. “I couldn’t be more proud of my wife. Completing this book has been a dream of hers for as long as I’ve known her, and while the road has been challenging for our family, it is a great example of the determination and strength demonstrated by military families all over the world.” For Coleman, finishing her book has been more than just a career move. “To become an author has always been a lifelong dream of mine. I hold this story very close to my heart. It’s a long chapter in my life that is closed, and I am finally ready to get it out to bookshelves everywhere,” Coleman said. Donors can learn more about the project and how to donate at www.kickstarter.com/projects/1512594506/the-legend-ofwahkan-my-first-novel. To read about her project, visit www.facebook.com/MelissasManuscript. ing, but is part of the school system’s normal security training exercises. Belinda Queen-Howard of Capitol Heights is the chairwoman of the District 3 Coffee Circle, a community group focused on issues in police district 3, which includes Capitol Heights and Landover. While the group does not have plans to organize anything, she said the group will pray for the country as it continues to experience tragedy. “The way things are going now, it isn’t just attacks on America, it’s attacks within America,” Queen said. “It’s almost to the point that we will have to train our children in school to respond to attacks.” Lt. Williams Alexander, a county police spokesman, said residents should adhere to the mantra of “See something, say something.” “People should stay vigilant, report anything,” he said. This story originally appeared in the Sept. 17, 2013 edition of The Prince George’s Gazette.
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Andrews Gazette
Virginia War Memorial seeks relatives in RCAF
Friday, September 20, 2013
CAPTION THIS
BY JEB HOCKMAN
VIRGINIA WAR MEMORIAL EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Many Americans joined the Canadian military forces to fight for freedom before the U.S. entered World War II in Dec. 1941. Unfortunately, enlistment records are sketchy. Thirteen Virginians were killed in action while serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. On Oct. 22, the Virginia War Memorial will join with the government of the Dominion of Canada in dedicating a plaque made from aluminum salvaged from a downed RCAF Halifax bomber to honor these Virginians. Any living relatives of those who will be honored are invited to Richmond for the ceremony. For information, visit www. vawarmemorial.org.
ATTORNEY, from page 3 Elliott and her supporters were granted the meeting after they submitted a petition to reopen the case with more than 1,200 signatures, Elliott said. Elliott had previously petitioned former county state’s attorney Jack Johnson to reopen the case after the officers were not indicted, but Johnson wouldn’t reopen the case, she said. Elliott said her dispute is that Archie Elliott was not armed when he was shot and that police covered up his death. During the meeting, Elliott and her supporters, calling themselves the Committee for Justice for Archie Elliott III, presented witnesses’ statements that allegedly contradicted the officers’ statements and other witness statements regarding seeing Archie Elliott with a gun in his hand after he was shot, according to a case analysis submitted by Thomas Ruffin, a lawyer assisting Elliott. Alsobrooks’ spokesman John Erzen said the state’s attorney disagreed with Ruffin’s analysis of the case and stated they didn’t provide new evidence that would warrant reopening the case. “What we would have needed to see today would have been new evidence that did not exist prior to the case going through the grand jury,” Erzen said. This was the first substantive meeting Elliott said she has had with a county state’s attorney. Johnson met with Elliott briefly, but that meeting didn’t include her supporters and didn’t allow for exchanging information. Elliott has also made other attempts to get the officers indicted — she filed a civil suit against the officers for excessive force, but that case was dismissed in 1996, according to court documents. Since her son’s death, she has been an activist against police violence, working with documentary filmmakers and making public speeches. Elliott plans to continue the fight to open the case, and she said she has some options on the table, but she would not comment on the specifics of her next step. “I much rather would have seen my son in jail and visited him there instead of a lifetime of him not being here,” Elliott said. “It looks like the police get away with killing people without any repercussion or accountability ever.” Erzen said the state’s attorney said although they couldn’t open Elliott’s case, they will continue to crack down when police abuse their power. “While it doesn’t change what happened to her son, it doesn’t bring him back, things are significantly different now than they were 20 years ago,” Erzen said. “If new evidence was provided to us from this case, potentially it could move things forward.” This story originally appeared in the Sept. 17, 2013 edition of The Prince George’s Gazette.
Send your silly captions for this week’s photo to cbasham@dcmilitary.com. The funniest ones will be used in a future edition of The Andrews Gazette.
9/11, from page 1 “I learned I was going to be part of a joint-service color guard about a week and a half beforehand,” said Gierucki. “When I found out I was going to be in the ceremony, I thought, ‘I need to make sure I’m not gonna screw up’.” Gierucki’s preparation process began the night before the actual ceremony. “To prepare for this event, I made sure my white gloves had no stains; my uniform was pressed, clean and had no strings,” said Gierucki. “Doing all this the night before mentally prepared me. I was afraid I wasn’t gonna wake up on time, get through White House security quickly, or something else might go wrong during the ceremony. Preparations helped put my mind at ease and helped me focus on the real meaning for the ceremony the next day.” Gierucki’s day began hours before the ceremony took place, starting with a 3:30 a.m. wake up. His initial responsibility was to be at the squadron at 4 a.m. to gather his flags, pick up the Sailors also participating in the ceremony around 4:30 a.m. and meet up with Army transportation to head to the White House. Once picked up at 5:30 a.m., Gierucki and his fellow service members slowly made their way to the White House. They arrived at the security checkpoint at 5:45 a.m. then proceeded to the White House itself. “As we walked through the White House, I thought it was crazy just how much history was in this place,” said Gierucki. “It was surreal walk-
VETERAN, from page 3 For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,
visit www.dcmilitary.com.
a good job. And don’t listen to the boys. When they start saying ‘bed,’ you tell them goodbye. Because next thing you know, you’ll have a baby to take care of, and your parents will be punished because you can’t support yourself.” Having lost her only son to pneumonia when he was a toddler, Dixon focuses her nurturing and wise guidance on the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of her eight siblings, as well as young people who visit her to learn about a woman
ing through there. Once we were set up inside, we finally had some time to relax and take a breather before the ceremony started.” After some time to unwind, the jointservice team started their rehearsal for the ceremony around 6:30 a.m. “We practiced our routine until we were confident it was perfect, we needed to have it down to a science,” said Gierucki. “When they finally opened the doors for the real event, that’s when it hits you that it’s game time.” It was surreal lining up into place, hearing the cameras rolling and seeing all the people in attendance, according to Gierucki. As President Obama paid tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives on 9/11, praising military and diplomatic personnel who have made many sacrifice, Gierucki thought of what this moment meant to him. “I’m lucky that none of my family members were lost in that attack, but I have friends whose families were a part of that horrible day,” said Gierucki. “Knowing I could do something to honor the people that were lost meant so much to me.” “Even watching old footage of the attacks today still hurts,” he said. “But I remember that we’re still part of the US and how we came together as a nation that day really stuck with me.” As soon as 8:46 a.m. struck, bells tolled and a military bugler played Taps. The President and first lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Biden, his wife Dr. Jill Biden and members of the White House staff, all stood silent on the South Lawn. “The moment of silence felt like it lasted a lifetime,” said Gierucki. “When I heard that first chime go off,
it hit me that this is a huge honor and I’m thinking about all the lives that were lost.” Gierucki said this is one of the reasons he joined the Air Force in the first place. “9/11 is a day that brought the nation together,” said Gierucki. “I feel like I had true patriotism and thought about what I could do to better my nation. It was a reminder that we can still be attacked at home.” As soon as Taps was done, the President, Vice President and their wives left the South Lawn and the ceremony was concluded. “I never thought I’d be doing this in my military career,” said Gierucki. “When I first got to basic training, I never thought I’d do anything like this.” When it was all said and done, the guardsmen retired the colors. Gierucki and his fellow guardsmen left the White House around 9 a.m., drove back to the base, dropped the Sailors off at their office and met with his supervisor to talk about the ceremony. “I had a heavy set of emotions that day,” said Gierucki. “It was a mixture of being proud to be part of a nation that is still honoring the victims 12 years later, and grief for those we have lost.” Gierucki said he is proud to have been chosen to represent at the White House who represented the entire Air Force in that moment. “I thought that we may have been hurt, but we’re still standing strong and doing what we can to prevent a day like that from happening again,” he said. “I’ll look back on this day and tell my children and grandchildren about it for years to come.”
who has seen more than a century of progress and change. Since 1998, Dixon has been a resident of the D.C. VA Medical Center’s Community Living Center. She recently celebrated her 106th birthday with cake and a standing-room-only crowd including her sister, who at 90 years of age is her only surviving sibling. It was not exactly the party Dixon would have planned. “They sent Marines to visit me, and they asked me where I wanted to go. I told them, I want to go to a nice nightclub. I can’t dance anymore, but I can wiggle,” said Dixon.
Dixon
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