It’s back
Lounge
Twilight Tattoo season gears up
Marines gain new residence
page 3
page 9
Vol. 60, no. 15 April 19, 2013
Pentagram
Published for Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall
Dempsey: uncertain times necessitate fiscal certainty
FAITH
By Claudette Roulo American Forces Press Service
PHOTO
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington, commanding general Joint Force Headquarters and National Capital Region - Military District of Washington, hands the flag to Barbara Broyles, the daughter of U.S. Army Lt. Col. Don C. Faith Jr., during Faith’s burial in Arlington National Cemetery April 17. Faith posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Korean conflict’s battle of Chosin Reservoir.
Soldiers laid to rest in Arlington By Jim Dresbach Pentagram Staff Writer
A total of 53 Arlington National Cemetery funerals and memorial services were conducted on the days of April 15 and 17, but two services received extraordinary media attention. A Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall April 15 morning was somber as one of five fatalities of an Afghanistan helicopter accident, Army Capt. Sara
Knutson Cullen made her final journey from Memorial Chapel to ANC’s section 60. Cullen, a West Point alum who was attached to the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, died March 11 during a night training mission. The afternoon of April 17, Army Lt. Col. Don C. Faith Jr. was buried in ANC’s section 4. Faith was a veteran of World War II and continued to serve during the Korean conflict. In December 1950, Faith and his 31st Regimental Combat
Team (RCT), later renamed “Task Force Faith,” were encircled and overrun near the Chosin Reservoir. Though seriously wounded, Faith assisted in regrouping his troops and personally led an assault against enemy forces. He died from his wounds Dec. 2, 1950, and his remains were not recovered at that time. Faith was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle. In 2004, his see BURIAL, page 6
The Defense Department and the nation face extraordinary fiscal and national security uncertainty, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee April 17. At such a time, predictable funding streams are vital to ensure readiness is sustained, Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey said. Dempsey testified alongside Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on the defense portion of the president’s fiscal year 2014 budget proposal. While the proposed budget doesn’t address the loss of readiness imposed by fiscal year 2013 funding shortfalls, the chairman said, it does protect defense priorities. “It keeps the force in balance,” he said. “It supports our forward-deployed operations. It upholds funding for emerging capabilities, notably cyber. It funds those conventional and nuclear capabilities that have proven so essential to our defense. It also lowers manpower costs, reduces excess infrastructure, and makes health care more sustainable.” It also gives the department more time to adapt to budget cuts, he said. The joint force is looking to the department and Congress to lead it through “this period of historic fiscal correction,” the nation’s top military officer told the senators. “This is a defining moment for our military. Our warriors’ will to win is undaunted, but the means to prepare to win are becoming uncertain,” the chairman said. “We therefore have an opportunity and an obligation with this and any future budget to restore confidence.”
Cody Child Development Center playground project planned By Rhonda Apple Pentagram Staff Writer
Plans are underway for a playground renovation project at the largest child development center within the Department of Defense – The Cody Child Development Center on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The overhaul will provide age appropriate playground equipment, eliminate the systemic drainage problems, and improve the overall safety of the facility for the children. As a result of command leader-
Index
Community Spotlight p.2 Commentary p.3 Community p.4 News Notes p.4 Feature p.7 Classifieds p.13
ship emphasis on the playground with a critical eye towards safety and functionality, combined with an Army Installation Management Command G9 evaluation, the playground renovation project request was approved. By the end of August, approximately 344 children at the facility will have a new playground designed to meet their developmental needs. The Cody CDC playground is now compliant and within DoD guidelines, however, the existing playground design does not meet the current needs of the patrons
enrolled nor is it a long term sustainable design due to drainage problems. “Improving [the playground] is going to be beneficial for everybody, it’s going to help the staff with supervision and the children will be able to play out there on a daily basis, regardless of what the weather has been on previous days,” said Dawn Thompson, acting coordinator of Child, Youth and School Services. COURTESY GRAPHIC “After it rained, the play- Plans are underway for a playground renovation project ground flooded a lot and was at the largest child development center within the muddy, so it was difficult to get Department of Defense – The Cody Child Development see PLAYGROUND, page 6
Earth Day message
How littering contributes to Chesapeake Bay’s health
Pg. 4
Center on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
Idling vehicles
Knowing the regulation and minimizing pollution
Pg. 8
2
Friday, April 19, 2013
PENTAGRAM
PHOTO
Defense
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Omar Teran and Molly Ryan, instructors, demonstrate a technique for getting out of a chokehold during a Rape Aggression Defense class at the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall April 15. The month of April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Community Spotlight • Name and age: Jacob Huth, age 5 • What does your mom or dad do at work?: My dad is in the Army. He helps a person. • Favorite sport: Golf, I’ve got real golf clubs. • Favorite book topic: Dragons or “Star Wars.” • Favorite food: Watermelon. • Favorite song to sing: “Gangnam Style.” • Favorite movie: “Power Rangers.“ • Favorite place you’ve ever been: Chuck-e-Cheese. • What do you like most about coming to school on JBM-HH: Teachers. • Is there something you want to be able to do by the end of the year?: Be in the Navy, because I have never seen a pirate before. • What do you like most about living in this area?: Pet and play with my doggie. • What is your favorite thing to do in Washington, D.C.?: Go to the beach. • If your parents won the lottery, what do you think they would do?: Go on a bike ride. • What advice would you give a friend? No bad words!
Caption This
PHOTO BY RACHEL LARUE
Caption This #12
If you’ve ever looked at a photo, read the caption underneath and thought you could do better, now is your chance. Each week, “Caption This” will have a photo taken from around the base. It’s up to you to figure out the best, funniest or craziest caption that describes what’s going on in the picture. The only rule is you have to KEEP IT CLEAN! “Caption This” submissions can be sent either by emailing them to pentagramjbmhh@yahoo.com, commenting on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/jbmhh or just stopping by Headquarters Bldg. 59, suite 116 and dropping it off. Don’t forget to add the “Caption This” number, your name, rank or position and where you work. Commander, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Every week the Pentagram staff will pick their favorite. The winner’s Col. Fern O. Sumpter’s vision and philosophy: name, caption along with the photo, will be printed in the newspaper. Compete with your friends and coworkers and see who can come up with the best one. And if you have a photo you think would make a great With a team of resource management savvy and technically competent DoD professionals, establish JBM–HH as DoD’s premier provider of consistent, qual- “Caption This,” send it in. ity services that enhance readiness and the overall well-being of our customers. Caption This #13 We must be ... - Experts at what we do … constantly improving our skills and knowledge. “It’s about time I got to use the big-girl - Focused … set priorities and complete the mission. scissors... My Pinterest followers would be - Committed … to the mission and each other, fostering a community of so proud!” excellence. Kasey Cacciottolo - Professional/respectful … remain calm, even when others are not … count on each other at all times, treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Pentagram Printed on recycled paper
http://www.army.mil/jbmhh
The Pentagram is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of the Pentagram are not necessarily the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, or Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The content of this publication is the responsibility of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Public Affairs Office. Pictures not otherwise credited are U.S. Army photographs. News items should be submitted to the Pentagram, 204 Lee Ave., Bldg. 59, Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199. They may also be faxed to (703) 696-0055 or e-mailed to courtney.a.dock-abuhl.civ@mail.mil. Circulation of 24,000 is printed by offset every Friday as a civilian enterprise newspaper by Comprint Military Publications. Comprint Military Publications is located at 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. Telephone (301) 921-2800. Commercial advertising should be placed with the printer. Comprint Military Publications is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army or Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertisements in this publication, to include all inserts and supplements, does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Department of the Navy of the products or 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, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser shall result in the refusal to print advertising from that source.
Editorial staff Commander Command Sergeant Major Director of Public Affairs Command Information Officer
Col. Fern O. Sumpter Earlene Y. Lavender Mary Ann Hodges Sharon Walker
Pentagram staff Editor Assistant Editor Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Photographer
Courtney Dock Michael Norris Rhonda Apple Julia LeDoux Jim Dresbach Rachel Larue
(703) 696-5401 (703) 696-7607 (703) 696-1363 (703) 696-7605 (703) 696-5488 (703) 696-7606
PENTAGRAM
Safety tip Annual off-duty safety awareness presentation now available Directorate of Communication and Public Affairs U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Fort Rucker, Ala.
With summer rapidly approaching, the U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center recently released an update to the off-duty safety awareness presentation, a tool designed to help Soldiers recognize hazards during these high-risk seasons. Data from previous years show accidental fatalities generally rise between April and September, with a majority of those deaths occurring off duty. “During the last five fiscal years, the Army has lost an average of 133 Soldiers to off-duty accidents annually,” said USACR/Safety Center Command Sgt. Maj. Richard D. Stidley. “As an institution we can, and must, change this trend.” The 2013 version of ODSAP, themed “What Have You Done to Save a Life Today?” contains materials and statistics that highlight the role of safety in off-duty activities, address risky behaviors and emphasize the often deadly consequences of fatigue and alcohol. Developed for use at battalion level and below, the package features embedded videos from actual Soldiers telling their safety stories, as well as speaker notes to prompt briefers during their presentation. While the complete briefing kit may be used as-is, leaders can tailor the information to reflect trends specific to their formations. “Soldiers can be part of the solution in preventing the next accident and senseless loss of life,” said Lt. Col. James Smith, director, USACR/Safety Center Ground Directorate. “This presentation provides great conversation starters for young leaders by sharing real-world stories Soldiers can relate to and talk about.” “Our goal is to help Soldiers recognize the off-duty hazards they face,” Stidley said. “We need to ensure they apply the principles of training, discipline and standards, which they embrace on duty, to their off duty activities as well.” The 2013 presentation is available at https://safety.army.mil/ODSAP (AKO login is required).
Come shred with us The Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Directorate of Environmental Management is offering a shredding event April 24. Bring the materials you want shredded to Bldg. 29 on the Henderson Hall portion of JBMHH from 9-10 a.m.; Bldg. 59 on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base from 10-11 a.m.; and Bldg. 321 on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH from 11 a.m.-noon. Materials that can be shredded include paper, manila folders, staples, papers clips and rubber bands and they can be in boxes, bags or piles. You can watch your documents as they are are shredded. Be sure to remove all substantial cardboard, plastic and metal from the materials being shredded because 100 percent of the shredded paper is recycled. Newspaper, credit cards, CDs, cardboard, 3ring binders and binder clips cannot be shredded. For more information, call Roy Croom with the JBM-HH environmental office at 703-6963791.
Redskins tickets
It’s that time of year again. On May 6 the JBM-HH ticket office will begin selling to all authorized personnel a combination package for 2013-2014 Washington Redskins football tickets at the Community Center, Bldg. 405, 228 McNair Road on the Fort Myer portion of the base. Tickets will be sold from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The package consists of one pair of pre-season tickets and one pair of regular season tickets. On Aug. 3, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. active duty servicemembers only can begin purchasing pairs of regular season tickets without having to purchase pre-season tickets. On Aug. 9, all remaining tickets will go on sale to all authorized personnel. At this time they can purchase pairs of regular season tickets without having to purchase pre-season tickets. Authorized personnel consists of active duty, retirees and Department of Defense common access card holders. For more information call 703-696-3470/71.
Friday, April 19, 2013
3
2013 Sexual Assault Awareness Month presidential proclamation In the last 20 years, our nation has made meaningful progress toward addressing sexual assault. Where victims were once left without recourse, laws have opened a path to safety and justice; where a culture of fear once kept violence hidden, survivors are more empowered to speak out and get help. But even today, too many women, men, and children suffer alone or in silence, burdened by shame or unsure anyone will listen. This month, we recommit to changing that tragic reality by stopping sexual assault before it starts and ensuring victims get the support they need. Sexual violence is an affront to human dignity and a crime no matter where it occurs. While rape and sexual assault affect all communities, those at the greatest risk are children, teens, and young women. Nearly one in five women will be a victim of sexual assault during college. For some groups, the rates of violence are even higher — Native American women are more than twice as likely to experience sexual assault as the general population. Moreover, we know rape and sexual assault are consistently underreported, and that the physical and emotional trauma they leave behind can last for years. With Vice President Joe Biden's leadership, we have made preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors a top priority. Earlier this month, I was proud to sign the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, which renews and strengthens the law that first made it possible for our country to address sexual assault in a comprehensive way. The act preserves critical services like rape crisis centers, upholds protections for immigrant victims, gives state and tribal law enforcement better tools to investigate cases of rape, and breaks down barriers that keep lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender victims from get-
ting help. It also expands funding for sexual assault nurse examiner programs and sexual assault response teams, helping States deliver justice for survivors and hold offenders accountable. Just as we keep fighting sexual assault in our neighborhoods, we must also recommit to ending it in our military — because no one serving our country should be at risk of assault by a fellow service member. Where this crime does take place, it cannot be tolerated; victims must have access to support, and offenders must face the consequences of their actions. Members of our armed forces and their families can learn more about the resources available to them at 1-877-995-5247 and www.SafeHelpline.org. All Americans can play a role in changing the culture that enables sexual violence. Each of us can take action by lifting up survivors we know and breaking the silence surrounding rape and sexual assault. To get involved, visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/1is2many. Together, our nation is moving forward in the fight against sexual assault. This month, let us keep working to prevent violence in every corner of America, and let us rededicate ourselves to giving survivors the bright future they deserve. Now, therefore, I, Barack Obama, president of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2013 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. I urge all Americans to support survivors of sexual assault and work together to prevent these crimes in their communities. President Barack Obama
Twilight Tattoo returns in May By George Markfelder JFHQ-NCR/MDW Public Affairs
The U.S. Army Military District of Washington’s 2013 season-long production of Twilight Tattoo begins May 1. This season’s opening performance is designated as the Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Friends and Family Tattoo. All servicemembers and Department of Defense civilians are invited to bring their friends and Families to watch this spectacular opening show, and if it rains — no problem. On inclement weather days, all Twilight Tattoo performances will be inside at Conmy Hall, on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. All Twilight Tattoos are free and open to the general public. The season opener features His Majesty the King’s Guard of Norway for a special joint performance, which will start at 6:40 p.m. His Majesty the Kings Guard, 3rd Company, is the Norwegian Defense Force’s finest display unit. This parade unit is organized as an ordinary infantry company divided into three separate platoon units, the military band (60 men/women), the ceremonial band (30 men/women) and the drill team (40 men). Unfortunately due to budget constraints, there will be no bleachers for Twilight Tattoo this year. Grass seating is available and it is recommended
PHOTO BY RACHEL LARUE
Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) ride on Whipple Field during the Twilight Tattoo Aug. 22, 2012. The U.S. Army Military District of Washington’s 2013 season production of Twilight Tattoo begins May 1.
guests bring a blanket or lawn chairs. For more information on group reservations, contact MDW Public Affairs at 202-685-2888. Twilight Tattoo performances begin at 7 p.m. Pre-ceremony pageantry begins at 6:40 p.m. Performances from May 1 through June 26 will be located at Summerall Field on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH. Performances from July 10 through Aug. 28 will be located at Whipple Field on JBM-HH. Field locations may vary, check the http://twilight.mdw.army.mil/home website prior to attending a specific date.
White Ribbon Campaign at Fort McNair JFHQ-NCR/MDW Public Affairs
The Army Air Operations Group is hosting a White Ribbon Campaign April 23 on the Fort Lesley J. McNair portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end violence against women and girls to promote gender equity and healthy relationships. “The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men’s violence against women,” said
Blues in concert
Felicia Hunter, AAOG campaign organizer. “The WRC was created by a handful of Canadian men in 1991 on the second anniversary of one man’s massacre of 14 women in Montreal. The campaign encourages both men and women to sign a pledge to stop violence against women and proudly wear the white ribbon throughout the work day.” Hunter says the campaign this year is opening up to all men and women, and the AAOG will have a tent/booth located across from the Fort McNair shoppette from 11:30 a.m.-2:30
p.m. Individuals who want to show their support of this year’s campaign may stop by and sign a pledge to stop violence against women and collect a white ribbon and grab a hot dog for lunch. Supporters may coordinate to sign pledges and pick up a white ribbon prior to April 23 by contacting the AAOG sexual assault response coordinator at 202-685-2436, Bldg. 18, second floor, Fort McNair. Men and women working together can help eradicate sexual assault and sexual harassment in the community.
The U.S. Army Blues, one of America’s only professional big-bands, presents an afternoon stroll down memory lane at 3 p.m. April 21 in Brucker Hall, home of the U.S. Army Band. The program focuses on the evolution of the big band from the 1920s to the present. The Blues will also perform with the Washington & Lee High School Jazz Ensemble and special guest Ernie Watts, a two-time Grammy winner, at 7 p.m. April 23 in Brucker Hall. For more information, call The U.S. Army Band concert line at 703-696-3399, or visit the website www.usarmyband.com.
4
Friday, April 19, 2013
Community
Illegal dumping, litter add up to big problems for water quality By Wanda Gooden Directorate of Environmental Management
A cigarette butt carelessly tossed out a car window. A fast food bag tossed along the side of the road. An open motor oil container left in a parking lot. You’ve seen it and wondered why someone would do these things. You might also agree that these things are unsightly, but not everyone realizes that litter and illegal dumping add up to a big water quality problem for the Chesapeake Bay region. Trash travels. So, what happens to that cigarette butt that is tossed on the ground? Here, in the urban Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, the butts are frequently picked up by rain water and washed into the nearest storm drain. From there, they are given an express ride through the moving water network and ultimately to the Chesapeake Bay where they can remain for a long time. We know that this body of water is already stressed. Cigarette filters are made of cellulose acetate, a plastic material which is slow to break down. While the butts are hanging around in the water waiting to degrade, substances can leach out of the butts and present a toxic threat to aquatic animals. Another big component of the litter waste stream is plastic. Plastic is present in many of the things we use every day: plastic shopping bags, straws, food utensils, as a wrapping for food and consumer goods – the list goes on and on. Unfortunately, many of these plastics wind up as litter that finds its way into the environment when it is not recycled or properly managed in a waste landfill or incinerator. Plastics can take years to break down and can persist in water bodies where they can entangle and choke the life out of aquatic animals. While littering usually refers to the careless disposal of waste materials, illegal dumping usually refers to the intentional disposal of large amounts of trash, used oil and vehicle fluids, construction and demolition materials (drywall, roofing shingles, concrete) and large items such as tires, appliances, and furniture, into unpermitted areas. Waterways, stream banks and abandoned/unsecure areas are likely targets where people dump their “stuff.” Pouring certain liquid wastes, or discarding trash down storm drains can also be considered illegal dumping. Illegally
PENTAGRAM
News Notes Death notice Anyone with debts owed to or by the estate of Sgt. 1st Class Kevin A. Williams, United States Army Physical Disability Agency, Crystal City, Va., must contact Lt. Col. Sheva Allen, the summary court martial officer for the Soldier. SFC Williams recently passed away on April 8, 2013. Call Allen at 210-617-0943. Sequestration news Get the latest information and news on sequestration and how it will affect the Department of Defense by visiting the JBM-HH website at www.army.mil/article/96832/Sequestration_Reso urces/.
PHOTO BY RACHEL LARUE
Cigarette butts and the chemical components they contain can work their way into the Chesapeake Bay watershed when not disposed of properly.
dumped wastes frequently contain hazardous and toxic materials that can harm the environment, people and animals. Litter and illegal dumping are both prohibited in virtually every jurisdiction in the Chesapeake Bay region. Data collected from the International Coastal Cleanup in 2011 indicated that cigarettes were the number one item collected from beaches and inland waters around the world. Plastics were among the other items in the top 10. Over 81,000 items tallied in the “dumping activities” category were collected from the U.S. alone during this same cleanup event. These included refrigerators, washers, 55-gallon drums, batteries, tires, and construction materials. Now, what can you do to prevent litter? Changing a common behavior, like littering, starts with you. You must accept responsibility for your actions and influence the actions of others around you and in the community at large. We all contribute to the problem, so we must all be part of the solution. According to the Keep America Beautiful Campaign, you can start with these actions: • Choose not to litter. Make the commitment now to join with thousands of other Americans to not be a litterbug. • Join with others on Facebook. Get your friends and family to join. • Remind others not to litter and why. • Get a litter bag, and if you smoke, a portable ash receptacle to share – keep these in your car. • Volunteer in your community to help prevent and cleanup litter — from cigarette
butts to illegal dumps. Join the International Coastal Cleanup on Sept. 21, 2013. JBM-HH’s Directorate of Environmental Management needs your help in preventing the installation from being a source of pollutants to the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. This involves not littering or dumping waste. Help JBMHH become the benchmark for lessening the impacts of its activities on the sensitive waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Fort Myer and portions of Fort McNair have storm drain systems that are intended to collect only storm water. Anything that gets into the storm drains at both installations will flow directly or indirectly to the Potomac River. The storm drains are not connected to a wastewater treatment plant. While prevention is the key, relying on public reporting can be effective as an anti-illegal dumping measure. DEM asks that you report illegal dumping, pollution, or anything you see on the installation that could impact water quality or the environment. DEM will investigate all reports and take actions needed to keep the environment clean and to protect water quality. You can report your observations in one of several ways: calling DEM directly at 703-696-8055/8513; stopping by DEM, Bldg. 321 on Stewart Road on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH; or by downloading and completing an environmental incident report form, available at the JBM-HH homepage, www.army.mil/jbmhh/web/jbmh h/directorates/environmentalmanagement.html. (Gooden is the water program manager for Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall’s Directorate of Environmental Mangement.)
Hero2Hired automates job search tools for successful transition U.S. Army Installation Management Command
Transitioning Soldiers have access to many kinds of resources as they prepare to enter the post-military phase of their lives. Many of those are available at Army Career and Alumni Program offices on installations. For Soldiers without regular access to an installation, however, the resources and tools needed for a successful transition might not be readily available — or available at all. This applies to many Reserve and National Guard Soldiers, but could also apply to Soldiers recovering from injuries or illness. To address the need for widely available transition resources, the Department of Defense created the Hero2Hired program as a central, userfriendly resource for Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard servicemembers to connect with
military-friendly companies who want to hire them. H2H has an array of interactive transition tools, including military-to-civilian skills translation, education and training resources and lists of employers, as well as a mobile smart phone app. H2H is provided through the Department of Defense’s Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, which currently is revising and expanding its scope due to demand for the program. H2H offers the following valuable job search tools: • Search for jobs — If you know the name of a company that is registered with H2H, just type it in the search box and it will narrow down your search; • Military Skill Translator — You can enter see JOB, page 6
Community Town Hall Joint Force Headquarters - National Capital Region and Military District of Washington Commanding General Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington and Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Commander Col. Fern O. Sumpter cordially invite our residents and customers to the JBM-HH Town Hall April 24 from 5-7 p.m. in the Community Activities Center, Building 405, on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base. If you have any questions, please call 703-696-8993. Tuition assistance portal back on The GoArmyEd portal for Soldiers use in requesting tuition assistance has been turned back on. This will allow Soldiers to request tuition assistance for the remainder of fiscal year 2013. For the balance of FY13, the eligibility for tuition assistance and the annual caps, $4,500 per year and $250 per semester hour, remain unchanged. ANC funeral schedule Funerals held at Arlington National Cemetery often originate and conclude on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH when participants use Memorial or Old Post Chapel or one of the clubs for a reception. When a funeral originates at Memorial Chapel, expect traffic backups during the time of the funeral. Carpenter Road, which goes to the commissary and the Henderson Hall side of JBM-HH, will be closed from 15 minutes and up to an hour after the start of the funeral. Free pass to national parks A free annual pass is available at national parks that charge a fee, permitting free entry to active duty military. Learn more at www.nps.gov. Marine Corps Community Services’ Semper Fit has an outdoor recreation issue point at the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gym. Learn more at mccsHH.com/OutdoorRec.html. Pizza to go The Marine Club has pizza for dining in or to go. Service hours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and wait times depend on the time of day and volume. All pizzas are 16 inches and come with a variety of toppings. See more at www.mccsHH.com /Club.html or call 703-614-2125. Lunch-n-learn Marine Corps Community Services Semper Fit invites you to bring your lunch and learn about health and wellness. A series of free 30-minute classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, through April25, from 11:30 a.m.-noon. Topics include: eating well and healthy cooking; how to prepare healthy meals and stay healthy while dining out. Classes are held in Bldg. 29 on the Henderson Hall portion of JBM-HH. To register, call 703-614-5959. Intramural softball Intramural unit level softball sign-ups for active duty personnel assigned to JBM-HH are underway. Register a team by calling 703-6967867/7863 or email Mike Cary at michael.v.carey.naf@mail.mil. Deadline for registration is April 17. The season begins April 29.
Lee at war Arlington House is pleased to announce that on April 20 at 1 p.m. Scott Bowden will lecture on Robert E. Lee at war as a part of its grand reopening and re-dedication program. The lecture is free but reservations are required. A limited amount of parking is available. To register, email arlingtonhouseevents@nps.gov. White Ribbon campaign The Air Operations Group will host a white ribbon campaign, working to eradicate violence among men and women, April 23 from 11:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. Look for the booth next to the Fort McNair Shoppette. Stop, make your pledge, collect and wear your ribbon all day. If you can’t wear it, let a Family member wear it for you. “Pershing’s Own” schedule The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” chamber music series, features Master Sgt.
Continues on next page
PENTAGRAM
Friday, April 19, 2013
5
News Notes Continued from previous page
again, heeding the warning signs.” Antonio Giuliano, tenor, performs a Guest speaker is Halina Litman tribute to Pavarotti in Memorial Peabody. The event is free. For more Chapel on the Fort Myer portion of information, call 703-696-2964/8729. JBM-HH April 23 at 7:30 p.m. JBM-HH e-recycling day Parent and child series: Stress The Directorate of Environmental management Management at JBM-HH will offer an This presentation is for parents Earth Day celebration electronics and their children 12 years old and recycling event April 25 from 9-11 a.m. older. Parents and children will learn at Bldg. 321 on the Fort Myer portion how to recognize sources of stress of the joint base. At an electronics recyand create a Family plan to help cling event, computers, computer manage those stressors. Participants related items and other small-sized will receive a copy of “Fighting electronics and small household elecInvisible Tigers.” The next class is tronic items are collected for recycling. set for April 23 from 4-5 p.m. at the Large items such as CRT monitors Cody Child Development Center and televisions cannot be accepted due teen lounge. Pre-registration is to their size and the hazardous materequired. Call 703-696-3512/6511 for rials associated with the recycling more information and to register. process. Flat screen monitors are acceptable. Large-size appliances and MPD S1 conference government equipment cannot be The next Fort Myer Military accommodated at this event. For more Personnel Division S1 conference is information, call Roy Croom at the scheduled for April 24 from 9 a.m.- environmental office at 703-696-3791. 12:30 p.m. at the Pentagon, PLC2, National drug take-back day conference room B-2. The conference The 6th annual national drug take goal is to strengthen the working partnership that MPD, units S1 and back day is set for April 25 from 10 Pentagon POC now have and to a.m.-2 p.m. at the JBM-HH commisbuild a consensus on efficient and sary. This is an opportunity for those effective services to customers. For who missed previous events, or who more information, call 703-696- have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs 3695/0008. to safely dispose of those medications. Holocaust Remembrance Day For more information, call 703-696JBM-HH commemorates Holocaust 3900. Remembrance Day April 24 from 11 Smooth move a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the community cenThe next smooth move class is set ter on the Fort Myer portion of the base. This year’s theme is “Never for April 25 from 1-3 p.m. in Bldg. 12
on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Learn about your new duty station, moving with Tricare, arranging household goods shipment with the transportation office, sponsorship and housing. To register call 703-696-0153/0156. Pinwheels and pins This Child Abuse Prevention Month closing ceremony and celebration in honor of military children features Family-orientated entertainment and free bowling. The ceremony is set for April 26 from 5-7 p.m. at the JBM-HH community center ballroom. Pre-registration for bowling is required as space is limited. Call 703-696-3512/6511 for more information and to register.
UFC 159 at the Marine Club The Marine Club will show UFC 159, Jon Jones versus Chael Sonnen April 27. The club opens at 8 p.m. and offers a special fight menu. DoD ID card holders and their guests are welcome. Transportation from the barracks and from Marine Barracks Washington will be provided; check with your unit for transportation times and pick-up locations. For more information, call 703-6142125.
Upcoming ACAP classes The next ACAP class scheduled is Marketing yourself for a second career. The class will be held April 23 from 1-3 p.m. in the ACAP Center, Bldg. 404, room 102. The class provides comprehensive advice on planning and conducting an effective job-hunting campaign. It teaches how to successfully transition from active military service to the professional civilian world. This lecture reinforces the military transition program by giving individuals, who plan to leave the service in the next few years, real tips, tools, and techniques to put their skills and talents to work in their postmilitary careers. To register, please call 703-696-0973.
Debt f ree class This seminar teaches you all you need to know to get out of debt. Participants learn strategies to create a plan to eliminate debt and free up more resources to build savings, and pursue financial goals. The class will be held April 24 from 10 a.m. - noon in the ACAP Center, Bldg. 404, room 102. To register, Moving Families through change please call 703-696-0973. This seminar is designed to provide parents with tools to create an effective co-parenting relationship Please send your news notes to through the separation and divorce the Pentagram at process. The seminar is set for April pentagramjbmhh@yahoo.com 30 from 1-5 p.m. in the ACS class-
Gettysburg trip The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee’s second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Learn more about this war, the people, the places, and the meaning of the war to Americans today by visiting Gettysburg National Military Park with ITT. The package includes roundtrip transportation, admission to the museum, lunch buffet and two-hour guided battlefield tour. The fee is $75 per person. To reserve, please call MCCS ITT at 571-483-1963.
1038227B
room, Bldg. 201. Call 703-6963512/6511 for more information and to register.
1038188B
6
Friday, April 19, 2013
Burial, from page 1 remains were recovered and returned to the United States for identification. Under a sky mixed with sun and clouds, Faith was laid to rest next to his parents, Army Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Faith Sr. and Katherine Reinsel Faith. As The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” played “America the Beautiful” the flag draped over Faith’s cof-
PENTAGRAM
fin was folded by The Old Guard Soldiers and presented to Faith’s daughter, Bobbie Broyles. The flag presentation was made by Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington, National Capital Region/Military District of Washington commander. “It was a tremendous honor to represent the Army and our nation in paying respects to one of our country’s greatest heroes,” Linnington said
in a statement to the Pentagram. “Lt. Col. Faith’s incredible service and heroism in combat are an inspiration to not just our Korean War veterans, but all veterans, and especially our Soldiers in uniform today.” A total of 125 attended the Faith Memorial service, which began at JBM-HH’s Memorial Chapel. Faith was a native of Washington, Ind.
Golf With Us Marines from Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall participate in the first round of Golf With Us for the 2013 season. The Marine Corps Community Services sponsored Golf With Us and Semper Fit program provides a round of golf, a cart, lunch and a chance to win great prizes. The golf tournament April 12 started out with a rainy morning, which turned into a beautiful day of golfing at the golf course at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The next tournament is May 10, with a shotgun start 8:30 a.m., at Meadows Farms. Additional tournaments are scheduled for June 21, July 19, Aug. 23, and Sept. 20. For more information log onto www.mccshh. com/smithgym.html
PHOTOS COURTESY MARINE CORPS COMMUNITY SERVICES HENDERSON HALL
1038604B
Playground, from page 1 out there and play for a couple of days,” said Blane Butler, support manager for Services with Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation on JBM-HH and the contracting officer’s representative for the project. “The renovation will include artificial turf surfaces in play areas to withstand the effects of constant use. Also, appropriate resilient surfacing will be installed to provide safe surfaces for active play time on the playground equipment and tricycle paths will be built and separated from other play areas,” he said. Thompson said the project will also include installation of a new drainage system throughout the various play areas; installation of fencing; relocation of fence lines to ensure sufficient emergency evacuation distance is achieved in the play areas. New age-appropriate playground equipment and canopies will also be installed. “The project is estimated to begin the end of May and be completed around the August time frame,” said Thompson. “To speed up the process, all the existing playground equipment in each play area will be removed at the same time, rather than completing Job, from page 4 your Military Occupational Code to get a list of career paths that most likely to fit your military training and experience; • Career assessment survey — If you’re not sure what you want to do, H2H offers a short skills and interests survey to help you determine what career types fit best with your background; • Advice and training — This tool provides helpful tips on job-hunting techniques, interview preparation, and
one play area at a time.” There will be alternatives available for the children to have outdoor play during the project. “In the front of Cody CDC, there is a small, grassy area we can use. We have Army Family Covenant buses which can transport the children to the CDC building T-482 to use on occasion, and we can use the softball field after the [servicemembers] are done with PT in the morning and before it’s busy there in the afternoon,” said Thompson. “I think the playground project is going to be well worth the time, energy and money spent for the day-to-day use and quality of life for the children,” she said.
COURTESY GRAPHIC
Plans are underway for a playground renovation project at the Cody Child Development Center on Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall.
resume building, along with information on school offerings, certificate and training programs, apprenticeships, financial aid, and more; • Hiring events — Find local hiring events in your area or attend a virtual career fair online from home. Or search a database of jobs and speak directly with employers from the comfort and convenience of home. The only requirement is a personal computer with internet access. The H2H website is intended to provide
transitioning service members with one more way to access the tools and information needed to step out of the combat uniform and into a new civilian career. The H2H site is located at this link: https://h2h.jobs/. Go to the site; set up an account and look around to find out how H2H can help you find your next job. If you have any questions please contact Mitchell Lee G3 I/ST Mitchell.a.lee.civ@mail. mil 210-466-0123 / 210722-4721.
PENTAGRAM
Friday, April 19, 2013
7
HITT program to stream-line already fit By Jim Dresbach Pentagram Staff Writer
HITT is an acronym for high intensity tactical training, and the Marine side of Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall has become one of 35 HITT centers worldwide which will embrace a comprehensive pre-deployment, deployment and post deployment physical fitness regimen. The Henderson Hall HITT training center was officially opened April 15 following a ribbon-cutting at the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium. During ceremony remarks, Col. Ira M. Cheatham, Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall commanding officer, thanked Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Henderson Hall and all who assisted in the formation of the center. The colonel then personally endorsed and challenged all HQ Battalion Marines to tackle the HITT training program. “[HITT] will wear you out,” Cheatham said. “I did a couple sample exercises, and I thought I was in pretty good shape, but I’ll tell you, when you’re doing [HITT], it shows you’re not in the greatest shape, and you can always be working on … total body fitness. “Everybody is going to want to come over here and use this,” the colonel continued. “We are going to make sure they have an opportunity to do that. We are going to make sure they do it the right way. What we want to do in the Marine Corps is to get stronger [and] not get more broken. In order to get stronger, we have to have the right equipment.” In many Marines’ eyes, the right equipment is now in place. The center, which is located in the boxing area of the gym complex, was assembled in March and the collection of bars reaches a height of 12 feet and is 14 feet long and six feet wide. Six various exercises, ranging from lunges, jumps and workouts with ropes and medicine balls, are centered on or near the vicinity of “the rack.” Following the ribbon-cutting, a HITT demonstration outlined the parameters and objectives of the training center. “We developed the right program for combat readiness — high intensity tactical training,” said Ryan Massimo, Marine Corps Semper Fit combat fitness specialist and HITT program manager, during the fitness center run-through.
PHOTO
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Cpl. Mitchell Taylor, Distribution Management Office, Henderson Hall, demonstrates one of the high intensity tactical training exercises during the opening ceremony of the HITT center in the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall April 15. For more photos, log onto www.flickr.com/photos/jbm-hh.
“This is designed for combat readiness. There are three phases to the entire program: a pre-deployment phase, the deployment phase and postdeployment. This is to keep us at peak physical condition if we should deploy.” Work-out Marines will challenge HITT at the multi-station exercise center where exercises are repeated during 30-second intervals and Marines will rotate from station to station. Three different types of programs – warrior HITT, which
works on explosive power; combat HITT, which works on functional strength and endurance, and athlete HITT, which will concentrate on basic strength and linear speed-will be utilized. One other objective of the HITT set-up is to minimize workout injuries. One of the grand opening demonstrators, Henderson Hall Marine 1st Sgt. Christopher Lillie, considers himself “a seven or eight” on the fitness spectrum. He noted that HITT still hit home. “This has humbled me, it breaks me,” Lillie said. “You could be a number 10 [on the fitness scale] and this program will wear you out. [Those] six stations at 30 seconds at each stationit feels like I just spent two hours in the gym or that I just finished a three-mile run. This will become part of my regular workout routine.” Former Marine, current Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight fighter and HITT enthusiast Brian Stann was a special guest for the opening, and told the crowd he prefers a HITT workout compared to weightlifting. Stann, a Silver Star recipient, suffered joint trauma from excessive weight use, and noted gym injuries can and have drained the health out of a unit’s roster. “This HITT training center will help your Marines prepare for their deployments,” the UFC fighter said. “They will be in peak physical condition. They will be at their best physically, and we all know [that] transfers mentally. When you are in better (physical) shape, it takes you much longer to become mentally exhausted.” Certified HITT instructor Marine Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Jackson mentioned that programs and workouts are currently being scheduled. “There will be two sessions a day – one in the morning from zero six thirty to zero seven thirty and then [midday] from 11:30 to 12:30 and the class will run Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” he said. “There will be combat, athlete and warrior HITT programs.” While the HITT exercise stations and programs were universally endorsed from Cheatham to the Marine demonstrators, Jackson’s recommendation may have been the most telling for those preparing to deploy. “This program really got me ready for Afghanistan,” the gunnery sergeant matter-offactly said.
PHOTOS
BY
RACHEL LARUE
TOP LEFT — Marines from Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall demonstrate some of the high intensity tactical training exercises during the opening ceremony of the HITT center in the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall April 15. TOP RIGHT — Brian Stann, former Marine Corps captain and professional Ultimate Fighting Challenge athlete, and Marines from Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall demonstrate some of the high intensity tactical training exercises during the opening ceremony of the HITT center in the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall April 15. LEFT — Marine Corps Community Services Director Roger Weger; Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquar ters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall Commanding Officer Col. Ira M. Cheatham and Combat Fitness Program Specialist Ryan Massimo cut the ribbon during the opening ceremony of the High Intensity Tactical Training center in the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, April 15.
8
Friday, April 19, 2013
PENTAGRAM
New Virginia law cracks down on distracted drivers, reinforces Quantico base rules By Ameesha Felton Quantico Sentry Staff Writer
Soon texting while driving won’t be an offense solely for drivers on Marine Corps Base Quantico, but all Virginia drivers. A new state law, which goes into effect July 1, will make texting while driving a primary offense, which means police officers can ticket drivers without any other traffic violation. In addition, the Commonwealth will also increase fines from $20 to $125 for the first offense and from $50 to $250 for the second. The legislation’s aim is to curb the growing number of accidents that are caused by distracted drivers. It’s a sigh of relief for Michael Harris, officer with the Provost Marshal Office’s Accident Investigations Unit at Quantico. “I’m glad that Virginia is coming on board with what the Department of Defense has seen for years,” Harris said. “We’ve always taken an anti-electronic devices and distraction [position] on Quantico.” On base, drivers are restricted from using hand-held devices entirely, which may seem like a stringent rule for their 45 mph maximum speed limit. However, Harris said turning away to type a few words or hitting the send but-
PHOTO
ton on a phone, even at low speeds, can be dangerous. “We’ve run into instances where a pedestrian has been struck in the past,” Harris said. Therefore, the base commander’s ultimate message is to promote safety and reduce distracted driving, Harris added. Even though most accidents on base are “fender benders,” according to the Safety Division, Harris
Vehicle engine idling prohibited on JBM-HH By Rhonda Apple Pentagram Staff Writer
Allowing vehicles to idle on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is against installation regulations. However, it happens — and violating the policy could cost violators money – in the form of a traffic violation. “We’re trying to help with the environment as well as help [prevent] noise pollution,” said Lt. Ron Foster, chief of the traffic investigation section with JBM-HH Directorate of Emergency Services. Referencing the JBM-HH policy on vehicle engine idling prohibition, Foster said this policy has been in effect on the installation for about five or six years. “DPW [The Department of Public Works] has posted signs in areas where idling takes place often – parking lots, some drop-off locations like bus stops – and if drivers are there for [extended] periods of time, they should cut off their engines,” said Foster. The joint base policy prohibiting vehicle engine idling complies with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ), District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR), Virginia and District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles, Fort McNair Title V Operating Permit, and Army Regulation on environmental protection and enhancement. “Engine idling not only wastes fuel, but it also releases into the atmosphere greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen compounds, and volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere. Collectively, these compounds contribute to ozone smog and global warming,” said Richard P. LaFreniere, JBM-HH director of Environmental Management. “Engine idling also releases particulate matter that is tied to asthma, lung disease, heart disease and cancer. We can avoid this by simply turning off our engines,” he said. The JBM-HH no-idling policy applies to all gasoline and dieselpowered government-owned/leased motor vehicles and private commercial motor vehicles operating on the joint base. It states vehicles must not idle for more than three minutes while the vehicle is parked, stopped or standing, with exception for emergency vehicles requiring power for
BY
SGT. RACHAEL MOORE
Texting while driving and any use of a cell phone, unless hands free, is restricted aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. However, as of July 1, a new Virginia law will make texting while driving a primary offense, allowing police officers to ticket drivers without any other traffic violations.
VA official: funding request reflects commitment to vets
operation of auxiliary equipment (medical instruments, computers, radios, radars, lights/sirens and communications equipment). Military tactical vehicles are exempted from idling restrictions. Buses can idle up to 10 minutes to maintain power to the air conditioning system during hot weather. Diesel powered vehicles also are allowed to idle for up to 10 minutes to minimize restart problems (including buses operating in cold weather to maintain power to the heater systems). On the Fort McNair portion of the joint base, the policy applies to all government and private commercial vehicles except for motor vehicles necessary to operate power takeoff equipment such as, but not limited to, dumping, cement mixer, winches, or shredders; emergency and military tactical vehicles requiring engine power for the operation of auxiliary equipment (such as medical instruments, computers, radios, radars, lights/sirens, and communications equipment); and to operate heating equipment when the local temperature is 32 degrees or below. “We do write citations if we catch violators,” Foster said. He said the first offense will result in a warning and subsequent violations will result in citations. Fines can cost up to $500 for violating the policy, Foster said.
PHOTO
said most mishaps happen during rush hour — the most congested period and most tempting for cell phone use. “We know when traffic is moving slow, [drivers] want to pick up their phone and coordinate plans with their families, but what they don’t realize is they’re making the road that much more dangerous,” Harris said. But the Provost Marshal Office
is cracking down on violators. Officers sporadically perform distracted driving “stings” throughout the base. Anyone caught will be required by federal magistrate to attend court, where they face fines, repercussions from their command (if military), and risk having their base driving privileges suspended. “The penalty for the first offense is three points and the second is a seven-day suspension [of base driving privileges],” Eric Rodriguez, base magistrate, said. Drivers who exceed the maximum of 12 points within a fiscal year, will have their driving rights revoked. It’s a stiff measure for those who work or live on base, but the regulation has no teeth off-base, including in the Town of Quantico, but not for long. “The new law gives us a bigger advantage, where we’re not writing a ticket under something obscure, increasing the chances of the charge getting thrown out,” Harris said. “We’re assimilating with Virginia law.” The hope is that people will take the base rules a little more seriously, Rodriguez said. Last year, PMO issued 134 citations for cell phone violations, sending a clear, zero-tolerance message to inattentive drivers — one that will soon be reflected statewide.
BY
RACHEL LARUE
There are limits to the amount of time a car can be left idling on Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall. Violators could face a ticket of up to $500. The policy has been in place on the installation for about five years.
By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service
Emphasizing that a nation’s budget reflects its core priorities, a senior Veterans Affairs Department official said the proposed 10 percent fiscal year 2014 budget increase for VA and the fact that the department is specifically sheltered from sequestration demonstrate America’s unwavering commitment to its veterans. Tommy Sowers, assistant VA secretary for public and intergovernmental affairs, recognized strong support for veterans programs that continues to cross party lines, even in tough budget times. “Veterans and veterans issues [have] been something Congress has been able to come together on,” he said during an interview last week with American Forces Press Service. “In Washington, one of the maxims is, ‘show me your budget and I will tell you what you care about,’” Sowers said. “And if you look at the budgets of these Congresses, this president, and what they have fought for, America cares about their veterans.” VA health care services, education funds and disability benefits are exempt from mandatory spending cuts that kicked in March 1 with the onset of sequestration. And the proposed $152.7 billion VA budget for fiscal 2014, announced April 10, reflects continued commitment to VA funding that has
PHOTO
BY
PFC. MARK A. GARCIA
A senior Veterans Affairs Department official said the proposed 10 percent fiscal year 2014 budget increase for VA and the fact that the department is specifically sheltered from sequestration demonstrate America’s unwavering commitment to its veterans.
increased more than 40 percent since 2009. Sowers, a former Special Forces Soldier who served in Iraq, said the president and VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki fully understand that VA’s requirements will continue to grow after a decade of conflict. “We see that already,” Sowers said. “Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have utilized VA health care [and] have filed more claims as a percentage than any generation before them.” Fifty-six percent of the 1.5 million veterans of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom are enrolled in and using VA health care, compared to 35 percent of the entire veteran population, he noted. In addition, 900,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans used the post-9/11 GI Bill, which provides financial support for education and housing. To meet their requirements and those of other veterans, the fiscal 2014 VA budget request
includes large increases for mental health and other health care programs and information technology aimed at eliminating the claims backlog, improving efficiencies and expanding access to programs, he noted. The budget also includes increased funding aimed at eliminating veteran homelessness, which Shinseki is committed to achieving in 2015. The goal, Sowers said, isn’t simply to implement quick fixes. “We want to put in long fixes — do the transformational things that are needed to move this department into the 21st century,” he said. “So when you look at that budget, I think it is a clear recognition by the president, by the secretary and by Congress: We know we have asked a very small percentage of Americans, not just in this war, but in wars past, to carry that burden,” Sowers said. “And that shows bipartisan commitment to our veterans.”
PENTAGRAM
Friday, April 19, 2013
9
Fire department A place for the Marines to call home considers purchase of temperaturesensitive tent By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer
By Michael Norris Pentagram Assistant Editor
Members of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Fire Department gathered with their Arlington County counterparts and officials from Arlington National Cemetery April 11 to inspect a demonstration recovery tent the cemetery and installation fire department are considering for purchase. The recovery tent, which can be used to assess and treat victims of heat exhaustion or frigid temperatures, is a portable enclosure that includes a radiant barrier lining that stabilizes the interior environment, along with a generator that can alternately keep the unit warm or cold depending on the need. The demonstration was set up on the southeast corner of the intersection of Pershing Drive and Sheridan Avenue, across the street from the base fire department, located on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. JBM-HH Fire Chief Russell Miller said ANC and the fire department are considering buying the tent for use at events like Memorial Day, where large crowds gather in ANC, with individuals sometimes traveling from outside the area, not always dressing appropriately for the region. He said the tent could also be used at other largescale events like the Army Ten-Miler or a Twilight Tattoo. At past events emergency personnel from the fire department have utilized a tent owned by the American Red Cross. Miller said it would be nice to have a second tent on hand so that the two could be used in conjunction, one for triage and the other for treatment. “It’s always nice to have that option,” said 1st Lt. Carl Vickers, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Medical Platoon leader, who was on hand for the demonstration. Miller said the tent on display was similar to one used previously at large events, but the advantage is that it’s more portable and can be quickly assembled and deployed. In the middle of the demonstration, with midmorning temperatures reaching into the 70s, firefighters’ radios crackled with reports of an “unconscious 13-year-old girl” having collapsed in the cemetery. It’s a not uncommon event, said Assistant Fire Chief Jon Culberson, explaining how people on vacation, bus-loads of kids on field trips and elderly out-of-state veterans traveling to the cemetery for funerals can be vulnerable “sitting in the heat for hours waiting for an event to take place.”
It’s what everyone wants to return to after a tough day at work — a comfortable place where you can relax and call your own. That’s exactly what the Marines Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall who live at Bachelors Enlisted Quarters 416 on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall now have. The lounge was unveiled during a ribbon cutting ceremony April 3 that drew the sergeant major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, JBM-HH Commander Col. Fern O. Sumpter, Col. Laura R. Trinkle, commander, Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic, and a host of others. The barracks now boasts a modern lounge, thanks to a $10,000 donation from the USO and “sweat equity” provided by the Marines of the BEQ. “I think the most important thing about it is, no contractors, no outside labor [was involved]. It was all the Marines,” said Cpl. Michael Zunie, a member of the barracks committee that not only brought the idea for the lounge to H&S Bn., HQMC Henderson Hall Commanding Officer Col. Ira M. Cheatham, but who was one of
the driving forces behind the renovation work. The lounge now boasts several large screen televisions that are surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs, newly painted walls as well as a communal kitchen where Marines will be able to prepare meals if they choose. Cheatham explained that the Army provides the building that houses the Marines and that when the renovation request was brought to Sumpter, “she took it on as a project. She turned around and said ‘What can I do
to help you and your Marines.’” “Marines are pretty much territorial and protective,” continued Cheatham. “It’s our nature and we don’t apologize for it, it’s who we are. What we wanted was a place to call home. We needed it to be ours. We needed to own it.” Cheatham said the USO donated a majority of the furniture in the lounge, while the Single Marine Program established the computer/game room. A cookout was held following the ribbon cutting ceremony.
PHOTO
BY
RACHEL LARUE
(From the left) Distribution Management Office Platoon Sergeant Sgt. Ottheia Searcy, USO Metro Manager of Programs and Services Shalyn Bartelt and Cpl. Michael Zunie cut the ribbon during the ceremony to open the new Marine Barracks Lounge in Bldg. 416 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall April 11.
1038294B
Lifestyle.
PHOTOS
BY
MICHAEL NORRIS
James Cuneo, the representative of a company that makes recovery tents, demonstrates features of his product April 11 as Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Fire Chief Russell Miller watches. The fire department and Arlington National Cemetery personnel are considering purchasing a recovery tent.
1038297B
10
Friday, April 19, 2013
PENTAGRAM
See something, say Arlington National something encouraged Cemetery’s award-winning By Rhonda Apple Pentagram Reporter
In light of the bombings at the Boston Marathon April 15, active duty and civilian personnel on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall are encouraged to be aware of anything suspicious on or off the joint base. The public service campaign slogan is simple, yet important — ‘If You See Something, Say Something.’ “[‘If You See Something, Say Something’] is not a new campaign. It’s something we’ve been doing for years — since 9/11 — and both the Army and local law enforcement [agencies] have been a big proponent of [this],” said Chief of Police William R. Johnson, with the JBM-HH Directorate of Emergency Services. “This is so people know if they see something out of the ordinary, they can pick up the phone and call local law enforcement, or to the installation [to report a situation here] , so no matter how small it might be to them, in the grand scheme of things, it might be [important in] a bigger picture,” he said. “We ask our residents, our customers, our visitors, our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors and Airmen, if they see something on the installation, they [should] notify us — no matter how small — and we will look into it,” Johnson said. “There are various systems out there that we gather information [from], to ensure we keep a safe and secure environment,” he continued. “I want to make sure as we’re getting into the summer
1038194B
months and folks are out and about walking around the installation, that the information gets passed [on] to the right folks,” said Johnson. The chief said in addition to most law enforcement agencies, The U.S. Department of Homeland Security also promotes the ‘If You See Something, Say Something,’ campaign. “The premise behind this is the more eyes we have out there, the better off we are, and the better off this organization is in making sure we have a safe and secure environment.” To report suspicious activity on JBM-HH, call 703-588-2800/2801. In an emergency, call 911. “Folks know what the norm is, when you commute into work every day, you see the same things. When you come in the gate you know where things are located. If you see something out of the ordinary, for example, an abandoned backpack or parcel or any suspicious activity, it needs to be reported,” said Johnson. “We’ll send our military police out to investigate.” He stressed the police on JBMHH do not want members of the joint base community to question whether they should call, or if they’re bothering DES employees by reporting something. “We’re here to serve the public and no matter how insignificant someone may think the inquiry might appear, we want people to know they should call us.” For more info about the ‘If You See Something, Say Something’ campaign and DHS, go to w w w. d h s . g o v / i f - y o u - s e e - s o m e thing-say-something-campaign.
app reaches 30k downloads
The executive director of the Army National Military Cemeteries announced in a hearing April 10 that Arlington National Cemetery’s free app, ANC Explorer, has reached 30,465 downloads in less than six months. Kathryn A. Condon testified before the House Veterans Affairs’ Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, along with representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemeteries Administration and American Battle Monuments Commission to provide an update on the progress made to date at Arlington National Cemetery. “ANC Explorer allows the public to honor, remember and explore this national shrine virtually whenever they want, wherever they want,” said Condon. The operational technology and app have received a number of awards from Federal Computer Week, Computer World, and Government Computer News. ANC Explorer was named “App of the Year” at the 2013 Federal Mobile Computing Summit. Arlington National Cemetery has transformed into an industry-leading, state-of-the art cemetery. Arlington’s leadership modernized cemetery operations using existing Army capabilities and technology. In March 2012, Arlington National Cemetery became the first national cemetery to geospatially (digitally) manage cemetery operations. Arlington adapted this opera-
tional technology to benefit Families and the public, enabling them to more deeply explore the cemetery’s rich history. On Oct. 22, 2012, Arlington National Cemetery released ANC Explorer, an application that can be used on smart phones and web browsers to allow the public to locate gravesites, view current and future events, and browse points of interests in the cemetery. Arlington National Cemetery is committed to honoring the legacy of the nation’s fallen heroes, veterans and their Families. The work that Arlington is undertaking will further enable the cemetery to be a place for people to honor, remember and explore this nation’s rich history well into the future.
Arlington National Cemetery’s free app, ANC Explorer, has reached 30,465 downloads in less than six months.
PENTAGRAM
Friday, April 19, 2013
11
Servicemembers, recent veterans needed as TAPS volunteers Information provided by Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is a nonprofit organization that provides immediate and long-term support and care to the Families of our nation’s fallen heroes. Over Memorial Day weekend the organization will be holding its 19th Annual TAPS Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp in the D.C. area, hosting children and teens from across the country. What makes the camp unique are the active duty men and women and recent veterans who volunteer to provide one-on-one mentoring to the children of
deceased servicemembers. Approximately 500 children are expected to visit the area to learn coping skills and supportsystems. You can help by volunteering your time over Memorial Day weekend to this very special cause. Each mentor will be matched with a child who has lost a loved one while serving in the military. The children range from ages 4 to 19 years old and each age group will be led by an experienced and trained grief facilitator. As a TAPS military mentor, you will serve as a “big brother/sister” to these children, to remind them that they are not forgotten and still very much a part of the military
Family. Mentors’ schedule: Mandatory training will be held May 22 from 6-9 p.m. or May 23 from 1-4 p.m. Memorial Day weekend: May 24, 7:30 a.m-5:30 p.m.; May 25, 8 a.m.10 p.m.; May 26, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. May 27, (optional) Arlington National Cemetery ceremony in dress uniform. Uniform: Casual (shorts, jeans, sandals, tennis shoes, etc.). Each mentor will receive two TAPS Tshirts to be worn for all activities Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Cost: None. During the camp, you will eat all meals with your mentee. Parking is available at specific locations that will be at no
cost. Where: The training sessions and majority of activities will occur at the Marriott Crystal Gateway in Crystal City, Va. For all other activities outside the hotel, bus transportation will be provided. Registration: For more information about the TAPS Good Grief Camp or to register as a mentor, go to www.taps.org and click on the Memorial Weekend Register Today link and then register as a Good Grief Camp mentor. Should you have any questions or need a letter requesting time off, email mentors@taps.org or call 1-800-959TAPS (8277). Deadline to register is May 7.
Free Home Seller Seminar
Administrative Professionals Day
If you’re planning to sell your home in the next twelve months,
YOU MUST ATTEND
Bob Hummer’s
Free Home Seller Seminar
April 24th
April 27, 2013
10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Show your appreciation with a fine meal and a fun time!
Strayer University
13385 Minnieville Road • Woodbridge, VA 22192
Agenda Includes: • • • • • •
Successfully mar ket ing your home Opt ions for t he distressed home owner The language and document s of real estate What you should expec t f rom your agent Using t he inter net to sell your home Infor mat ion for Senior s
Attendees Will Receive: • • • •
Discount on set tlement expenses Free credi t repor t s Free home mar ket analysis We a l t h o f r e f e r e n c e m a t e r i a l
Your Buyer and Seller Representative
703-878-4866
Certified Short Sale Specialist
703-415-4420 sineirishpub.com 1038298B
1038192B
Located at Pentagon Row
1038296B
1301 S. Joyce Street, Arlington, VA
1038195B
www.Military-Realestate.com www.BobHummerHelpsSeniorHomeowners.com 4500 Pond Way, Woodbridge, VA 22192
Licensed in Virginia
12
Friday, April 19, 2013
PENTAGRAM
Leveraging credit cards to strengthen your credit score By Randy Hoper Navy Federal Credit Union
Editor’s note: This notice is of common interest to the military community and does not imply Department of Defense endorsement of a commercial entity. A strong credit score can be an integral part of staying financially secure, whatever the economic climate. But for many U.S. servicemembers, determining exactly what has
an impact on their score can be a daunting task. One thing is for sure: credit cards can and do impact your credit score – positively or negatively – depending upon how you use them. In fact, credit cards can be one of your best friends or your worst enemies when it comes to your score. So, how can you make your plastic work for you in the quest for strong credit? Below are some tips on how to use
10% Discount for Active & Retired Military!
HANDY MAN
1038072B
All New Installations Guaranteed 6 Years; Repairs 3 Years!!
Contractors License# 2705144443
Interior & exterior carpentry, painting & more. Flooring & remodeling of bathrooms, kitchens or open areas of living space. WE DO IT ALL BIG OR SMALL!!
FREE ESTIMATES: CALL 703.883.7123 OR 540.847.KING (5464)
1038071B
1037800B
your cards to strengthen or maintain your credit and avoid some pitfalls that may lower your score in a hurry. Manage your debt to credit ratio: Closely watch your credit card balance relative to your credit limit, called your “debt to credit ratio.” Experts differ about the ideal ratio, but all agree that keeping your debt below 30 percent of your available credit line is key to ensuring your credit score isn’t negatively impacted. Check your statement regularly to make sure that your credit line hasn’t been reduced by your card company, thus raising your debt to credit ratio. Consider a balance transfer: If you’re trying to pay down your balance, explore the option of a balance transfer. A balance transfer at a low rate makes it easier to pay down your balance, improving your debt to credit ratio as your balance decreases. Keep an eye out for balance transfers with no fees, zero percent interest during the introductory period and a low rate after the intro period expires. Know that the APR on these offers can jump to above 20 percent after the introductory window – though all credit union interest rates are capped at 18 percent. Make all your payments on time: Timely payments establish a track record of reliability and boost credit. If possible, set up automatic monthly payments along with text and email alerts to remind you of your due date. For controlled spending and easy qualification, go with a secured card: If you’re wary that a new credit card may make it more difficult to control spending, secured cards may be a great solution for you. They’re also a good option if you have little to no credit or your credit standing is below average. Secured cards require that you provide an up-front deposit, which then equals your credit line.
Because secured card limits cannot exceed what you have deposited and tend to be lower than other cards, they help you control your spending. Secured cards also aid you in establishing a track record of ontime payments. There are several lenders in the market with a secured card that can help you stay within budget and build credit. Be smart about opening and closing accounts: As a general rule, avoid closing any card accounts. Having a higher average age on your credit accounts positively impacts your credit score. Beware not to open a large number of credit cards in a short span of time – doing so can indicate to lenders that you are overly eager for credit. Pay down your balance as much as possible each month: Fully paying your balance helps you maintain a healthy debt to credit ratio. If it’s not possible to pay down your entire balance, try to at least pay down some portion to manage your debt and minimize interest payments. Maintain some level of activity: Make regular purchases with each of your cards, even if minimal. Complete inactivity can lead to the account being closed. Your credit can even be adversely impacted by inactive cards before the account is shut down. Don’t rely on debit or prepaid cards to build credit: Debit and prepaid cards are great additions to your wallet for convenience. However, these cards draw on available funds from an account instead of a line of credit. So using them will not boost your credit. Keeping these tips in mind, you can move forward with a sense of confidence about how to put your cards to work for you. Just remember that credit cards are one of several tools in your toolbelt when it comes to building that solid credit score.
PENTAGRAM
Friday, April 19, 2013
Classifieds Call 301-670-2503
FALLS CHURCH 2Br, shared Ba, $560 ea util incl, 6 mo lease. N/s, N/p. Near Pentagon. Call: 703-375-9071 LOTHIAN- Priv NS bsmt apt w/lg windows, in upscale SFH, 900 sqft, 1BR, 1BA, No pets. 10mins to AAFB, 20mins to DC. Avail now. $850/ mo. incl utils. Please call 202-288-8778
SPECIAL RATES FOR MILITARY AND FEDERAL EMPLOYEES Barcroft Apartments is now offering its garden apartments with 10% discount for military personnel & Month to month leases available.
Efficiency.........................................$934-$955 One Bedrooms............................$1010-$1045 Two bedrooms.............................$1215-$1300 Three Bedrooms Plus Electric.......$1350-$1395 Townhome................................................$1400
A month. All utilities paid. Carpeting optional.
• Park right at your door in this park-like setting. • Walk to elementary and high school or Army National Guard Readiness Center. • Take the express bus to the Pentagon, Ft. Myer, Henderson Hall or Ballston in 12 minutes. • Cats welcome. No dogs.
(703) 521-3000
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-5 • Call for Saturday hours Please refer to ad when calling All prices subject to change.
BARCROFT APARTMENTS 1130 South George Mason Drive • Arlington, VA 22204 At Columbia Pike and So. George Mason Drive
T6611120B
Some Restrictions Apply
Condo MYRTLE BEACH: 3br 2ba, Sleeps 8. Free Golf, Tennis & Amenities. $785/per week. 301-9774227
BETHANY: famly bch
hse 4BR, 2BA Slps8Pool 50yds,Bch1 mi, Direct trolly. $1450. Sat-Sat 301-253-4263
Pharmacy/ Phlebotomy Tech Trainees Needed Now Pharmacies/ hospitals now hiring. No experience? Job Training & Placement Assistance Available 1-877-240-4524 CTO SCHEV
Dental/ Medical Assistant Trainees Needed Now Dental/Medical Offices now hiring. No experience? Job Training & Placement Assistance Available 1-877-234-7706 CTO SCHEV
STRUCTURED CABLING TECHS & ELECTRICIANS All Levels Needed VA, DC Start Immediately Contact: Michelle Cook 703-636-0470
Military Vet Seeks Associate WITH MARKETING CREDENTIALS (IT, TV., Graphics, film exp., etc.) to help him promote Louie Llama® at www.louiellama.com to star in a Hollywood animated family film.
T6611290B
Send mini-resume to lamakids@aol.com
Potential candidate to be notified.
13
MP
DULLES EXPO CENTER • CHANTILLY, VA
Largest Gun Show in Metro DC! 1000 TABLES! The size of 2 football fields! • Over 1.5 miles of guns, Knives and accessories! The NRA National Firearms Museum Presents: “President Theodore Roosevelt’s Firearms” Don’t miss these historic treasures! JOIN OR RENEW YOUR NRA MEMBERSHIP AT THIS SHOW AND GET IN FREE!
1038231B
1038390B
1038196B