Best Warrior
Base alum
Base Soldier’s mettle tested
Touring Ike’s footsteps
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Vol. 60, no. 22 June 7, 2013
page 10
Pentagram
Published for Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall
Officials reaffirm DoD commitment to fighting sexual assault
TWO WHEELS
By Terri Moon Cronk American Forces Press Service
PHOTO
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Pfc. Michael Hughes, left, and Pfc. Adrian Tibbs, from the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall 289th MP Company, pose for a photograph May 28.
JBM-HH Bike Patrol MPs pedal into second season By Rhonda Apple Pentagram Staff Writer
Perhaps you’ve seen them at an intersection, answering a question from someone needing directions on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall or assisting visitors in Arlington National Cemetery. The JBM-HH Police Bike Patrol, a mission which began in 2012, resumed May 1. The two-member team will contin-
ue to be out and about until Oct. 1. “The point of having a bike patrol is to interact with the community,” said JBM-HH Directorate of Emergency Services Provost Sergeant Master Sgt. Jason Hazzard. “They’re more approachable because they’re not in a patrol car. They’re outfitted with bike shorts, polo shirts and inclement weather gear for riding in the rain.”
Mobility is an advantage for the police cyclists. “They’re able to go places that limit police cars on the roads. These individuals can respond to anything, anywhere … and they can ride faster,” Hazzard said. Serving the community and assisting the public is a vital part of the department’s mission. “We’re here to assist the public, not just ride around in a patrol car issuing tickets or see PATROL, page 9
At a May 30 open house marking the Defense Department’s launch of a new peer-support service for sexual assault victims, senior Pentagon officials reaffirmed the department’s commitment to eradicating sexual assault in the military. The Defense Department has joined with a private organization to launch the DoD Safe HelpRoom — a private online chat room for servicemembers and military Families to seek help following an assault. The new service gives victims and survivors access to chats with their peers, through an agreement with the nonprofit Rape, Incest and Abuse National Network. “Sexual assault is a crime DoD will not tolerate,” said Jessica L. Wright, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness and a 35-year military veteran. “Our servicemembers sign up to protect the United States, and they have to feel safe within our ranks. I know what it’s like to be asked to do risky things, and we don’t want to put our servicemembers at risk as they’re doing [their jobs].” From the newest private to the secretary of defense and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff “and everybody in between,” Wright said, “we’ve locked arms against this crime, and we will work diligently to eradicate it from our ranks.” Eliminating sexual assault from the military will require a culture change, said Army Maj. Gen. Gary S. Patton, director of the Defense Department’s sexual assault prevention and response office, known as SAPRO. A society that doesn’t tolerate sexual assault is one where people are treated with dignity and respect, and where victims know they’ll be treated with privacy and sensitivity, the general said. “And offenders will know they will be found and held accountable as appropriate,” he added. Patton said “assessing ourselves” is a priority in combating sexual assault, to ensure that programs and policies work. “SAPRO and RAINN are working together in prevention, investigation, accountability, see ASSAULT, page 9
FMWR establishes new, instant ‘know zone’ text service By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer
It’s not who you know, it’s what you know in the information age, and Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation can get you in that “know zone” if you text OKFMWR to 99000. “We know that the fliers and the posters and the e-mails that we send out sometimes are not reaching our customers the way we’d like them to,” said FMWR marketing manager Patricia “Ocie” Jacobs-Pejcic. “It’s kind of static information, they’re used to
Index
Community Spotlight p.2 Commentary p.3 Community p.4 News Notes p.4 Feature p.10 Classifieds p.11
seeing it presented in the same way over and over again, and we were trying to find some creative, contemporary, trendy ways to get in touch with our customers.” When you opt into the new text service, Jacobs-Pejcic says you’ll receive real time information on the happenings, deals and discounts offered by FMWR. “Clearly it’s not a new thought, but I have not seen another FMWR or another base utilize it [text messaging in marketing], so we thought we would give it a shot just to see. “With this, you don’t have to go to a [web]site to find the information,” she continued. “We are sending the infor-
mation to you.” FMWR kicked off the service during its military spouse appreciation event in May. Approximately 30-40 military spouses opted into the service during the event. “We had them text in ‘proud spouse’ and we just took a random name out of those who texted in and awarded them a party platter,” said Jacobs-Pejcic, who said more and more people are opting in to receive the text messages every day. “I think the more we use it, the more we broadcast we have it, the more people are going to get used to it,” she predicted.
Weighing food choices Rader dietician stresses healthy eating options
Pg. 6
Subscribers to the text messaging service can expect to receive information about special events FMWR has in the works or special promotions on things like Washington Nationals or Washington Redskins tickets. JacobsPejcic said subscribers should anticipate receiving maybe a text a week from FMWR. “We refuse to spam people,” she said. You can also opt out of the service at anytime by texting back “stop” to 99000, Jacobs-Pejcic said. You can also keep up with the latest news from FMWR by liking them on Facebook, and following them on Twitter and Pinterest, she added.
New law in town
DES director emphasizes organization’s service
Pg. 4
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Friday, June 7, 2013
PENTAGRAM
PHOTO
Roadrunners
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Runners participate in the Iwo Jima Memorial 7K Race, the initial event of the 2013 Ooh Rah Run Series, on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall May 22. The next race is the Chesty 5K scheduled for Wednesday, June 26. To register, log onto www.mccshh.com/OohRahRunSeries.html.
Community Spotlight • Name and age: Karen Lamson age 5. • What does your mom or dad do at work?: My dad is in the Army. One time he had to go to Afghanistan. • Favorite sport? Volleyball, because my mom was on the volleyball team as a kid. • Favorite book? Princesses, dollies and Barbies. • Favorite food? Spaghetti. • Favorite song to sing? I like to make up songs. • Favorite movie? “Rapunzel.” • Favorite place you’ve ever been? My grandma’s. • What do you like most about coming to school on JBM-HH? My teachers. • Is there something you want to be able to do by the end of the year? I want to be 6. • What do you like most about living in this area? Because I get to spend time with family and friends. • What is your favorite thing to do in Washington, D.C.? Fly on air planes. • If your parents won the lottery, what do you think they would do? Have a bigger house, I think. • What advice would you give a friend? Be good.
Caption This
PHOTO BY COURTNEY DOCK
Caption This #20
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 #19 We must be ... - Experts at what we do … constantly improving our skills and knowledge. “Pawrade REST!” - Focused … set priorities and complete the mission. - Committed … to the mission and each other, fostering a community of Lisa Yambrick excellence. - 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 Avoiding heat illness From an IMCOM Safety gram
Working in an excessively hot environment can be difficult – and even fatal. Heat can create a number of safety problems and illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be fatal. These illnesses, caused by too much heat, are called hyperthermia. Heat can also cause you to become inattentive, short-tempered, dizzy, and slow. All of these conditions can cause you to work in an unsafe manner. Hot conditions can be caused by the weather or by the work situation itself, such as a laundry room or foundry. When the atmosphere is humid, the effects of the heat are compounded. Here are the warning signs of heat illnesses: • Heat cramps affect muscles such as those in the arms, legs and abdomen — the muscles which have been used while working. These cramps may occur after work, when the person is resting. Heat cramps are a signal that the body has lost too much salt through sweating. • Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that needs immediate attention. It may have any or all of these symptoms: A feeling of exhaustion, nausea, dizziness, pale and clammy skin, quick pulse, and low blood pressure. Heat exhaustion is also a warning that the mechanism which controls heat for the body has become seriously overtaxed. Heat stroke may follow if heat exhaustion is not treated. • Heat stroke is a serious matter and it can be fatal. It occurs when the body’s heat control mechanism simply shuts down. Perspiration stops and the body’s temperature rises. The heart pounds and the skin becomes flushed and hot. This condition is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately. Here are some suggestions for smoother sailing in the summer: • When the hot weather hits, expect everyone to be sluggish for a few days until they adjust. Get used to working in the heat gradually. Alter work routines to reduce heavy exertion in the heat of the day. • Take frequent rest breaks when working in hot conditions. These breaks can consist of moving to a cooler area or switching to lighter work for awhile. • Drink water often to avoid dehydration. The body loses water through perspiration, so you need to replenish it frequently. Do not drink alcoholic beverages or caffeinated beverages because they will cause you to lose even more water and salt. • Dress lightly, in layers, so that you can subtract or add clothing as the temperature changes. Be sure to shade the skin against the sun. Remind your workers frequently to protect themselves from sunburn by covering up with lightweight clothing and using sunscreen. • Remind your employees to watch each other for signs of heat illness. Mild cases can be treated by moving the person to a cool area and supplying water to drink. Heat stroke is a lifethreatening condition which calls for immediate medical help. Every summer many areas undergo periods of seriously hot weather. Make sure you know how to avoid heat illness at work and off the job.
We’re hiring, and we want YOU! Maintenance Worker (Fort Myer Child Youth & School Services), part time, permanent, non-appropriated fund regular part time position with 20 guaranteed work hours per administrative week. This position provides assistance and support to the staff in maintaining and up keeping of the facility, grounds and related equipment. www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/344120 800. Position closes June 7. Child and Youth Services (CYS) Facility Director (JBM-HH, Fort Myer) full time, permanent position includes NAF benefits. Director oversees operations of a large Department of the Army child care center and manages the resources and staff associated with it to ensure overall compliance with life, health and safety standards. See full description and how to apply at www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/344475 100. This position closes June 13.
Friday, June 7, 2013
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When the healer is wounded By Cory Hancock JFHQ-NCR/MDW Public Affairs Office
“When the healer is wounded” was the theme of the 7th annual JFHQ-NCR/MDW Interagency Chaplain’s Conference held May 30 in the Spates Community Club and Conference Center at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. “Sharing ideas with our sister services and interagency partners is what helps us improve,” said Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington, commanding general of the Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. “This year’s theme of ‘healing the healer’ is especially significant given the last twelve years of conflict and the challenges we all face.” Various military, governmental, non-governmental and civilian chaplains from across the National Capital Region discussed important topics of healing the wounds of the healer. According to organizers, more than 140 registered for the conference. Organizers said the conference is produced by JFHQ-NCR/MDW in collaboration with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Public Safety Chaplain’s Subcommittee. Other speakers at the conference included Dr. Dwayne L. Buckingham, Chap. (Lt. Cmdr. Sel.) Kimberly Cain, Lorenzo Cooper York, Chap. (Lt. Col.) H. Bruce Messinger, Karen Bonaby and Chap. Barry C. Black, the 62nd chaplain of the U.S. Senate. “The point of my presentation was to use sacred literature to provide guidance on how wounded people can begin healing,” said Black. “A critical point is that healers who are hurting often neglect their own physical well-being, which only exacerbates the problem. Taking care of yourself is very important.” In addition to opening the Senate each day in prayer, Black’s duties include counseling and spiritual care for the senators, their fami-
PHOTO
BY
CORY HANCOCK
Chap. Barry C. Black, the 62nd chaplain of the U.S. Senate addresses the audience during the 7th annual JFHQ-NCR/MDW Interagency Chaplain’s Conference held in Spates Community Club and Conference Center at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall May 30.
lies and their staffs, a combined constituency of 6,000 people. “This training went very well. The whole process is moving forward as envisioned years ago,” said Dennis Bailey, public safety planner, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. “The success is astounding yet there is still much work to be done.” For more information about Joint Force Headquarters, National Capital Region/Military District of Washington, log onto www.army.mil/mdw. To learn more about the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, log onto www.mwcog.org.
Army promotes National Safety Month By Michael J. Negard Directorate of Communication and Public Affairs U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Fort Rucker, Ala.
June is National Safety Month, and senior Army leaders are asking Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians and their Family members to educate one another on risk and influence behaviors surrounding the leading causes of preventable injury and death. National Safety Month coincides with the beginning of summer, historically the deadliest time of year for Soldiers off-duty. According to Command Sgt. Major Richard D. Stidley, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center, indiscipline is a leading cause of Soldier fatalities, particularly on America’s highways. “We’re dealing with somewhat of a paradigm when it comes to safety of the force,” Stidley said. “In uniform, in Afghanistan or Iraq, or anywhere else around the world, our Soldiers operate nearly flawlessly on-duty. But when they get home, back to the states and out of uniform, discipline goes out the window and we lose Soldiers at a rate we cannot afford.” The Army lost 160 Soldiers to accidents during fiscal 2012. Off-duty accidents outnumbered those occurring on duty 4-to-1, with motorcycle and vehicle mishaps comprising nearly 80 percent of losses. “Private motor vehicles, either two wheeled or four, remain the number one accidental killer of our Soldiers,” Stidley said. “Indiscipline leads to reckless behavior, and reckless behavior in any form when you’re driving or riding can be deadly.” “We are winning the fight,” said Sgt. Maj. of the
Army Raymond Chandler. “Accidental fatalities have fallen to peacetime levels even as we continue combat operations overseas. But, we cannot yet declare victory.” To help leaders, Soldiers and safety professionals enhance their personal risk management during National Safety Month, the USACR/Safety Center has launched a dedicated website at https://safety.army.mil/NSM, containing posters, informational videos and feature articles addressing four core topics: civilian injury prevention, ground operations, aviation operations and driving safety. While much effort will be put into awareness during June, senior Army leaders urged all members of the Army Family to remember safety is a day-to-day commitment and responsibility. “Across every Army unit and every installation, safety is everyone’s responsibility,” said Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, Army chief of staff. “Leaders, Soldiers, Army civilians and Family members are encouraged to use National Safety Month to evaluate their safety measures both onand off-duty. “It’s imperative that leaders continue to make safety a priority and that Soldiers take seriously the actions that put themselves and others at risk.” National Safety Month will complement the current Army Safe Summer campaign, which includes materials targeted to specific seasonal hazards and began May 24 and runs through Sept. 3. “Use this time to focus your Soldiers on making smart risk decisions,” Chandler said. “Doing the hard work now will serve them well in the future. Being prepared saves lives.”
June ACAP seminars and workshops • TAP classes: June10-14: Retiring executive TAP workshop. From 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, Room 102. June 24-28: Retiring executive TAP workshop. (All classes) From 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, Room 102. • Career resource workshop — June 17, from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • TRICARE benefits in-depth — June 20 from 10 a.m.-noon in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • Business franchise opportunities — June 20 from 1-3 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • Home buying — June 25 from 10 a.m.noon in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. •Marketing yourself for a second career — June 25 from 1-3 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • Debt free — June 26 from 10 a.m.-noon in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102.
• Smart investments — June 26 from 1-3 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • Finding and applying for jobs in the federal government — June 27 from 10 a.m.- noon in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 102. • Credit score; from good to excellent — June 27 from 1-3 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg 404, room 102. • VA claims assistance at the ACAP center is available Mondays and Thursdays from 8 a.m.2 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 103. Claims assistance is by appointment only. • Army Reserve and National Guard transition team assistance is available on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the ACAP center, Bldg. 404, room 103. To attend any of the ACAP transitioning classes available, call 703-696-0973 or visit the ACAP office in Bldg. 404. For more information about each class or workshop, log onto www.jbmhh.army.mil /WEB/JBMHH/Services/ArmyCareerAlumni.h tml.
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Friday, June 7, 2013
Community
DES director shares leadership vision By Rhonda Apple Pentagram Staff Writer
Throughout his 19-year military career, Lt. Col. Macedonio R. Molina, director of Emergency Services and provost marshal on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, has served in a myriad of positions and garnered a lot of experience to develop his leadership vision and philosophy. Molina reported to his job on JBM-HH April 14. Prior to starting work, he said he purchased a home in Maryland where he lives with his wife, Esty, 17-year-old son, three daughters, ages 15, 9, and 7 and four horses. “This is my first time being assigned to the [Washington,] D.C. area,” said Molina, who had visited the region only once on a key club trip during his junior year in high school. “Anything and everything you can do is within this community is here … whether it’s sightseeing, shopping, or in my case, spending time with the family and horseback riding on the weekend.” Born in Los Angeles and raised in Douglas, Ariz., joining the military was something he thought about in his youth. The movie “A Few Good Men,” also provided motivation. “I wanted to be a lawyer in the military… my cousin, who is my godfather, was a detective with the police department in Douglas and as I grew and matured, I realized the direction I wanted in my career. He inspired me to go into law enforcement,” said Molina. Molina spent three years in the National Guard and Reserve, graduating from New Mexico Military Institute in May, 1994 with an associate in arts degree. He received a Reserve Officer Army commission as a second lieutenant in the military police corps that same year. “I completed my bachelor’s degree from University of Arizona while I was with the 855 Military Police Company, Arizona Army National Guard in Phoenix,” he said. “I missed a semester of school to attend the officer basic course where I trained and was certified as an MP.” After completing his bachelor’s degree, Molina transitioned to active duty in June, 1997 at the National Training Center Military Police Company, Fort Irwin, Calif., as operations officer for the provost marshal’s office. He was selected in 1998 to serve as troop executive officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. After completing the military police officers advanced course in April, 2000, Molina was assigned as physical security/anti-terrorism officer, G3, Operations, 19th Theater Support Command, Camp Henry, South Korea. He returned stateside in May, 2002
PENTAGRAM
News Notes Death notice Anyone with debts owed to or by the estate of Staff Sgt. Deborah Alana Addison, National Guard Bureau, must contact Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jill E. Graham, the summary court officer for the Soldier. Addison passed away on May 25. Call Graham at 703-604-8678.
PHOTO
BY
RACHEL LARUE
Lt. Col. Macedonio R. Molina, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall director of Emergency Services, poses for a photograph in his office May 28.
and served as commander, 6th Military Police Detachment, Fort Rucker, Ala. In May 2004, Molina was assigned to 2/263rd Training Support Bn., 91st Division (Training Support) in Mesa, Ariz., as combat support senior observer/controller trainer and unit assistor. In 2005, temporary change of station orders sent him to support 3rd Brigade, 91st Training Support Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, where he served as range officer in charge and S3 for Task Force Outlaw, the Army’s mobilization training facility for detainee operations. Following completion of the Command and General Staff College where he received a Masters of Arts in Military Arts and Sciences in June, 2007, Molina was assigned to 705th Military Police Bn. (Internment/Resettlement), where he deployed as the battalion S3 to Camp Bucca, Iraq, under the 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne) and Task Force Falcon to conduct detainee operations. Under redeployment, he was selected to serve as Battalion Executive Officer for the 705th Military Police Battalion (I/R), to prepare and deploy the staff in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at Camp Taji, Iraq. Molina again deployed with the 705th MP Bn. (I/R) in support of detainee operations under the 89th MP Brigade. Once he returned, Molina assumed duties as the deputy director of emergency services, Fort Leavenworth, Kan., in June, 2010. In July, 2011, Molina assumed duties as director of emergency services at Fort Polk, La., and by January, 2012, he was selected to serve as a commander, Security Force Advise and Assist, 2/101 Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), where he was deployed to Regional Command-East, Logar Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, from May 2012 to February, 2013. Molina talked about his philosophy, vision and intent he’s shared with his staff at DES over the past seven weeks.
News you can use
“We’re a service-based organization and provide a service to the community, whether through law enforcement, fire and emergency services or physical security,” said Molina. He feels the best way to service the joint base community is through training and education. “I train and educate the workforce so they understand what the standards are, and what policies and procedures we need to enforce. At the same time we have a commitment to the community to make sure they understand what the standards are as we go through the education process,” he said. Molina pointed out responsiveness to the public as another important point within DES. “Being responsive to the public, being professional and courteous upon our response and ensuring the public knows we’re being responsive to them. “Being courteous and having professional standards are an important part of the DES workforce,” said Molina. “If those three things — being responsive, professional and courteous — are standard, and you communicate that to the workforce and the community, then there are no problems.” Molina shared his thoughts about military installations before disclosing how well he likes his first assignment on a joint base. “There is no bad installation — all Army installations are great installations — just some are a little better than others,” he said with a smile. “My personal observation is Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and this community is one of those that are just a little better than others. I love my job; have great employees and a great supervisor.” The DES director enjoys playing poker and referred to the card game, saying, “It’s hard to lose when you have four aces and I have a great workforce. [Police] Chief [William] Johnson is great; [Fire] Chief [Russell] Miller is great. Cathy Hardy is doing a great job with physical security and Master Sgt. [Jason] Hazzard as my provost sergeant. With those four doing a great job, it’s hard to lose with my four aces.”
greet is a forum that offers newly-arrived spouses an opportunity to meet other spouses and Vacation Bible school obtain information on the installation and surJBM-HH Chapel will conduct ecumenical rounding area. To register, call 703-696vacation Bible school June 24-28 from 9:30 a.m.- 0153/0156. noon in the Memorial Chapel fellowship hall with the theme “Kingdom Rock” for children ages 3 through 6th grade. Registration at Memorial Chapel and runs until all 50 slots are full. Call Betsy Hendrix at 703-696-6635 with questions. Spouse meet and greet A spouse meet and greet will be held at the JBM-HH Army Community Service building, Bldg. 201 on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base, June 25 from noon-2 p.m. The meet and
Visit museums free this summer This summer, military Families can visit over 2,000 museums across the country free of charge thanks to a program called Blue Star Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Defense Department and museums across America. First launched in the summer of 2010, the program offers free admission to all active duty military personnel and their Families through Labor Day. The free admission is good for the military member and up to five Family members. To learn more, visit http://www.arts.gov/national/bluestarmuseums/inde x2013.php. Be in the know zone Be in the know zone and get real time information on the hot happenings, deals and discounts offered by Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation by texting OKFMWR to 99000. You will receive about one text a week as well as information on how to stop receiving texts. Chesty’s 5K fun run Registration is open for Chesty’s 5K fun run. Held June 26 at 6:35 a.m., the fun run honors esteemed Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller, who was born on June 26, 1898. Registration is free, and T-shirts will be given to the first 150 registered participants. The top three male and female finishers will receive medals and prizes. For more information and the link to sign-up online, visit www.mccshh.com/oohrahrunseries.html or call 703614-5959. Mystics tickets available Marine Corps Community Services Henderson Hall Information, Tickets and Tours office has tickets for the Women’s National Basketball Association Washington Mystics games. Seats, located in section 228, row E, are $13. Tickets are available for the entire season’s home games. For more information or to purchase, call 571-483-1963 or visit the office located in Bldg. 31 adjacent to the Marine Corps Exchange. “Pershing’s Own” event schedule The first concert of the Sunsets with a Soundtrack series kicks off with The U.S. Army concert Band performing A Carmen Fantasy, featuring Master Sgt. Andrea Artley on flute, Donizetti’s virtuoso tenor aria “Ah, Mes Amis” sung by U.S. Army Chorus member Staff Sgt. Matthew Smith and the splendor and fanfare that can be brought by The U.S. Army Trumpets in full force. This is an hour you won’t want to miss. Performance will take place June 7 at 8 p.m. on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Repairs made on 50-yard pool The 50-yard swimming pool at the Fort Myer Officers Club will be closed for emergency repairs through June 8. This closing will allow the replacement of the pool wall and the reset of tiling around the 50-yard pool. The 25-meter, figure 8 and wading pools are open daily from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. For additional information, contact Christina Darensbourg at 703-696-0299 or Todd Hopkins at 703-696-0594. Swim, Stroke and turn clinic Marine Corps Community Services Semper Fit Aquatics will offer a stroke and turn clinic. Due to furloughs, the dates have changed. More information will be forthcoming. Call 703-693-7351 with any concerns. Mobile DMV to visit The JBM-HH Army Career and Alumni Program will sponsor the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles mobile unit on June 10 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the parking lot in front of the bowling center and Spates Community Club. They will have available most services provided at a regular DMV office. The mobile unit provides JBM-HH servicemembers, their Families, DoD civilians and retirees a different and convenient venue exclusively without having to go to a regular office. For more information, call 703696-9603. Aqua aerobics at Zembiec Pool Aqua aerobics will resume at the Maj. Douglas A. Zembiec Pool beginning June 11. Deep water aqua aerobics classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Deep water running classes meet Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.-noon. An aqua belt (limited supply available at the pool), water bottle and swimsuit are needed, and registration is not required. For more information, call 703696-7351.
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News Notes Continued from previous page Patient education classes Adopt a healthy lifestyle and attend a nutrition education class at Rader Clinic. The pre-diabetes class covers information on how to prevent or delay developing diabetes. The healthy heart class covers lifestyle changes to improve high cholesterol and/or high blood pressure. A healthy heart class will be held June 13 at 1 p.m. or June 27 at 8:30 a.m.; a pre-diabetes class will be held June 6 at 1 p.m. or June 20 at 8:30 a.m. Classes are open to all beneficiaries of the military health system, registration is required. Call Beth Triner at 703-696-7930 for more information. NDU and IADC graduations National Defense University will hold its graduation June 13 at 9 a.m. Inter-American Defense College will hold its graduation ceremonies June 20 at 9 a.m. Expect increased traffic and limited parking during this time. D Street will be closed during both events. For more information, call 703696-3290. Career resources for job seekers The Marine Corps Community Services career resource management center offers assistance for job seekers. Upcoming classes include a resume writing workshop on June 13 from 9-11 a.m.; a career exploration workshop June 20 from 9-11 a.m.; and a workshop titled cracking the code to the federal hiring process June 20 from 1-3 p.m. The CRMC also offers an information session led by a representative from the Department of Veterans Affairs on service-connected disabilities June 12 from 1-3 p.m. For these and other CRMC offerings, visit www.mccshh .com/CRMC or call 703-614-6828 for more information and to register. Father’s Day special at Fort Myer PX The health and beauty section of the Fort Myer PX will hold a Father’s Day sale Friday, June 14 from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. with specials on men’s lotion, powder and spray powder. Free samples will be available to all customers. For more information call 703-522-0664. Swimming lessons The SKIES program is offering swimming lessons this summer. There are five sessions, June 10-20; June 24- July 3; July 8-July 18; July 22-Aug. 1; and Aug. 5-15. Register at CYSS Parent Central Services, Bldg. 483. Call 703-696-0313/4942. For more information, call Annette Engum at 703-696-3728 or email Annette.engum@us.army.mil.
Welcome aboard brief Marine Corps Community Services offers a welcome aboard brief June 11 beginning at 8 a.m. at the Marine Club. Newcomers and their Families are highly encouraged to attend to find out valuable information on Headquarters and Service Battalion, JBM-HH, and the National Capital Region. A $10 lunch coupon for lunch at the club or Java Café is given to each servicemember, and a free tour by bus of the local area and Washington, D.C., follows. Those attending are asked to register by calling 703-614-7202. For more information, visit the relocation assistance program page at www.mccshh.com /RAP.html.
UFC 161 at Marine Club The Marine Club will show UFC 161 on June 15. The club opens at 8 p.m. with food and beverage specials, and the fight starts at 10 p.m. Door prizes will be drawn during the evening. The club is open to all ranks, all services and Department of Defense identification card holders and their guests. Call 703-614-2125 for more information.
Stress management Join ACS June 19 from 9-10 a.m. for stress management (introductory level presentation for adults) in Bldg. 201 on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH. Individuals attending will be given information of the basics of identifying TARP training stressors in their life and how to create Threat Awareness and Reporting their own stress management plan. Program (TARP) annual training will FBI recruiting event be held June 12 and July 17 at the Town The Federal Bureau of Investigation Hall building on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH at 10 a.m. The training is will hold a recruiting event at the comconducted by the 902nd MI Group Fort munity center ballroom on the Fort Belvoir and is mandatory for all U.S. Myer portion of JBM-HH June 19 Army employees every year. For more information, call 703-696-0756. Blood drive Join the arms race and donate blood during the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment’s (The Old Guard) blood drive June 13 from noon-4 p.m. at the community center. To schedule an appointment, visit www.militarydonor.com and search for sponsor code NNMC. Army birthday run to affect traffic The Department of the Army is celebrating the Army’s birthday with a motivational three-mile run June 14 at 6:45 a.m., beginning at the The field parking lot. The run will proceed through JBM-HH and Arlington National Cemetery and return to Summerall Field. Summerall Field parking lot will be blocked by close of business on June 13. Regiment and caisson parking lot will be closed for VIP parking at 9 p.m. June 13. Expect traffic delays near Sheridan Avenue, McNair Road and Carpenter Road during the event, especially at Cody Child Development Center and the commissary. For more information, call 703-696-3290. 01039981B
Dining facility open to all DoD cardholders June 14 The JBM-HH dining facility will open for lunch from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. June 14 to celebrate the 238th birthday of the United States Army. The meal is open to all active duty, Reserve, and National Guard from all branches of service, retirees, DoD civilians and Family members. A cake cutting ceremony will also be held outside the dining facility. For more information, call 703-696-2087.
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from 9 a.m.-noon. To learn more about FBI careers, visit www.fbijobs.gov. Clydesdales at JBM-HH Clydesdale horses will visit JBMHH June 21. At 11 a.m., they will use Sheridan Avenue as they walk from the caisson to the Firestone lot. At 1 p.m., they will walk back to the caisson, again using Sheridan Avenue. Motorists are urged not to drive past the horses during this time.
Air Force Band concert The United States Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants perform a free concert June 28 beginning at 8 p.m. at the Air Force Memorial, One Air Force Memorial Drive, in Arlington, Va. Tickets are not required. The concert is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. For more information, visit www.usafband.af.mil. Please send your news notes to the Pentagram at pentagramjbmhh@yahoo.com.
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PENTAGRAM
JBM-HH’s Robledo takes part in best warrior clash By Jim Dresbach Pentagram Staff Writer
Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Headquarters Command Battalion Staff Sgt. Pablo Robledo was one of 36 Soldiers who participated in the 2013 Joint Base San Antonio Best Warrior Competition held at Camp Bullis, Texas, May 11-17. Robledo represented the United States Army Installation Management Command’s (IMCOM) Atlantic region. To qualify, the staff sergeant engaged in IMCOM-level board interviews, PT (physical training) tests, the Army PRT (physical readiness training) program and weapons qualifications. IMCOM’s Atlantic region includes more than 40 Army and joint installations on the eastern seaboard. “The experience was awesome, and I’m ready for it next year. I want it,” Robledo said.
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Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Staff Sgt. Pablo Robledo (right) grapples against Staff Sgt. Jason Ruiz, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, U.S. Army North (Fifth Army) on May 14 during the Best Warrior Competition held at Camp Bullis, Texas.
“It was a very, very rigorous training. It was almost like a war-like environment.” After in-processing and an orientation, the usual physical and mental routine of the JBMHH’s S-4 battalion prevention leader, building coordinator and approving official was thrown right out the window. The competition started with a 4:30 a.m. PT test, and Robledo and other Soldiers withstood drills which included a timed 12-mile rucksack march with 50pound loads, weapons qualifications, day and night land navigations, combative matches, obstacle course runs and stress shooting. “That was my very first stress fire,” he said. “You’re basically running to get your heart rate up, and while your heart rate is up and you are tired, you have to engage targets. You run with your M-4 for a mile, and you shoot at targets.” While the competition was physically challenging, mental aptitudes were also confronted. “You had an [oral] board [review], an essay and a [written] test to do,” Robledo explained. “You get minimal sleep. I pretty much had to eat in increments, too. You get your breakfast, lunch and dinner, but at times you had to do a MRE [meal ready-to-eat], and you had to choose wisely when to eat.” The competition was scored by standard times assigned to each event or drill. If a Soldier exceeded or surpassed the standard time, they received points. If the benchmark on an interview, exam or drill was not met, no points were earned. As the physical and mental engagements continued, Soldiers bonded through the late nights and early mornings. “We all go in there knowing it is a competition — competing against each other, but it becomes automatic to help each other out — to push each other,” Robledo said. “You can never
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Staff Sgt. Pablo Robledo, S-4 battalion prevention leader, building coordinator and approving official, poses with his award and certificate naming him the top best warrior in IMCOM’s Atlantic region. Robledo took part in the best warrior competition last month at Camp Bullis, Texas.
leave a brother back — no matter what. We knew we were competing against each other, but it became the idea that all of us were competing against the [obstacle] course and competing against time.”
Eating healthy improves life Soldiers seeing fewer PCS moves By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer
Eat more of this, less of that. Carbs are good. Carbs are bad. Eating right and maintaining or getting down to a healthy weight can be confusing, but a visit to www.choosemyplate.gov can help, said Beth Triner, dietician at Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic on Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall. “The goal of eating is to fuel our bodies,” she said. Choosemyplate.gov is turning two years old and uses United States Department of Agriculture guidelines to assist people in making healthy food choices. “Every five years, per congressional mandate, they have to review those dietary guidelines,” explained Triner. “The last revision was done in 2010 and published in 2011.” The visual of Choosemyplate.gov replaced the old food pyramid, she continued. “When people think of the plate, traditionally it was the meat,” said Triner. “You might have a starch, you might have a vegetable. We all know that’s not the healthiest way to eat. It’s about getting a variety of everything. The pyramid didn’t show that.” The site allows users to develop individual food plans tailored to their health and weight goals, and
also has a special section for kids called “my kid’s plate.” A new section on the site, called “my plate on campus,” promotes healthy eating for young adults on college campuses. The site also allows you to enter the amount of physical activity you’ve done in a day. “Studies show when people pay attention to their food choices, they make better food choices,” said Triner. The my food tracker portion of the site allows you to enter what you’ve eaten throughout the day so you can see the number of calories you’ve consumed, as well as your total amount of sodium and sugars. “It’s the total calories you consume in a day that makes the difference [in whether you’ll gain or lose weight],” said Triner. Part of healthy eating is knowing what foods to buy, and Triner said when you head to your favorite food store to buy groceries, to stay in the perimeter and avoid the aisles. “That’s more the processed foods. When I say processed foods, I’m thinking about noodle mixes, canned meats, which can have very high sodium,” she said. If you’d like to consult with Triner, a doctor’s referral is not necessary. Call Rader’s appointment line at 855-227-6331 or Triner directly at 703-696-7930 to set up an appointment.
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Beth Triner, dietician at Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic, poses for a photograph outside of the commissary May 31.
By David Vergun Army News Service
The Army would like its enlisted Soldiers to remain on station for at least 36 months — and career managers are aiming to see that they will, said a director from Human Resource Command. In late 2012, senior Army leaders “asked us to look for ways to increase unit readiness, stability and predictability for Soldiers and Families,” said Col. Robert Bennett, director, Enlisted Personnel Management Directorate. Keeping Soldiers on station for a longer period of time would accomplish those goals, said Bennett, who said he met with leaders in his directorate to go over options and implementation of the plan. Exceptions The increase in time-on-station is affecting most, but not all, of about 432,000 enlisted Soldiers. There are multiple exceptions to the effort to keep Soldiers on station for 36 months. The most important of those exceptions is deployment, Bennett said. If there is a need for Soldiers to deploy, then the mission comes first, he said. The Army also has several highdemand career field positions, such as recruiters and drill sergeants. If the Army needs Soldiers to fill those positions, that too would be a reason to move a Soldier to a new location before they have completed 36 months at a duty station. Special duty positions such as in the intelligence community or at the White House Communications Agency, for example, are also exceptions. Professional development of Soldiers is also an exception, Bennett said. For example, if a staff sergeant gets promoted to sergeant first class, he or she might be moved to fill a billet that is more commensurate with their increased rank and ability to lead. Soldiers with special needs children might also be exempted from the time-on-station effort. For example, Bennett said, a Soldier may get a compassionate reassignment to a location with better support for their special needs child. Soldiers assigned to Korea will continue to serve there for one year — not three. But existing policies for Soldiers assigned in Germany, Hawaii and Alaska remain unchanged — those Soldiers are
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A moving truck is unloaded as a Family moves into their new home. The Army would like its enlisted Soldiers to remain on station for at least 36 months according to Human Resource Command.
already locked into three-year tours. Finally, Soldiers have been in the past offered the opportunity to choose a new duty station as part of a re-enlistment option. The previous requirement for first-term Soldiers re-enlisting was 12 months on station, Bennett said. That has now been increased to 24 months for priority 1 and 2 assignments, which include some units that are deploying, warrior transition units, ROTC cadre and other special assignments that have senior leader emphasis. Re-enlisting Soldiers who choose follow-on assignments that are not priority 1 or 2 will likely have to remain on station the full 36 months before getting their location choice, Bennett said. Return to normal Prior to 9/11, three-year tours were the norm. It was overseas contingency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan that had Soldiers moving from one installation to the next with less than 36 months at one duty station. But as operations draw down, the Army’s goal of 36 months is pretty much being met right now, Bennett said. Now, things are becoming more stable and predictable, and Bennett said he thinks Soldiers and their Families as a whole are appreciative of that. On top of that, a reduction in permanent-change-of-station moves helps the Army save money, Bennett said. “We want to make everyone happy,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s about Army requirements. That’s the driver.”
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Military District of Washington club keeps Sgt. Audie Murphy’s heroic example alive By Staff Sgt. Marcus A. Dandridge Military District of Washington Sergeant Audie Murphy Club Public Affairs Officer
Audie Murphy remains a legend. In addition to being a Hollywood actor, songwriter and poet, he was also a coveted war hero, but not just any hero, Audie Murphy was the most decorated Soldier in World War II, earning every decoration for valor given by the United States, including the Medal of Honor. The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club is an organization for noncommissioned officers who display the same
characteristics as this highly decorated war hero. This private yet elite organization serves those NCOs whose leadership achievement and performance sets them apart, based on their hard work and dedication to their communities as well as their units. Originally founded in Fort Hood, Texas, in 1986, the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club rapidly grew into an Army-wide organization. Within a few short years, the organization had grown from being accepted throughout U.S. Army Forces Command in 1993, to Army-wide commands to include the Reserves and National
Guard only a year later. The Military District of Washington Sergeant Audie Murphy Club values the opportunity to provide support to the community through selfless service within the D.C., Maryland, Virginia and surrounding areas. Members participate in programs which promote positive morals and strong values, which improves both the Soldier and the community. The club works to recognize personal courage and develop teamwork through mentoring and involvement in numerous athletic and charity events throughout the Washington,
D.C. area. Over the coming weeks and months, it is the group’s intent to highlight the outstanding contributions of the men and women of this organization, which only 2 percent of the Army is a part of, and normally goes unrecognized. For more information on the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club, contact Staff Sgt. Marcus A. Dandridge, Military District of Washington Sergeant Audie Murphy Club public affairs office at 703-325-1309 or email marcus.a.dandridge.mil@mail.mil. You can also find information on MDW’s chapter on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDWSAMC.
Tobacco cessation classes available at Rader By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer
Becoming tobacco-free is more challenging than simply putting out a cigarette or throwing out your chew and saying that’s it. It requires the elimination of tobacco from your lifestyle, said Dr. Sharwanda George, a clinical pharmacist at Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Now that the facility is a tobacco free-campus, meaning that tobacco use is prohibited inside the building and on grounds and property associated with the clinic, it is drawing attention to its tobacco cessation programs. “We offer individual classes where patients can come in, and we can have a one-on-one session with the individual,” George explained. “We also offer group classes upon request.” George, who has led the tobacco cessation program at Rader since 2005, said an important advantage of the group sessions is the moral support participants offer each other. “Social support is one of the key ingredients with tobacco cessation, having the social support as well as the pharmacological support, meaning the medication, and then teaching individuals how to problem solve, those are the three ingredients to have success with tobacco cessation,” she said. Another advantage of the group sessions is that participants “can listen to other people who have the same issue they have and [learn] what they did to get through it,” George continued. She said group sessions also have disadvantages. If one member of the group opts to go back to using tobacco, that can lead other group members to do the same thing.
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Looking to kick the tobacco habit? Tobacco cessation classes are available at Rader U.S. Army Medical Clinic.
Individual tobacco cessation sessions run anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, while group sessions are about an hour long. During the sessions, participants receive help with identifying the triggers which lead them to reach for tobacco. They also review their reasons for wanting to stop using tobacco, the health consequences of tobacco use and how to manage their withdrawal symptoms. “Something as simple as quitting smoking can decrease your blood pressure, your cholesterol and your risk for cancer,” said George. At her first session with a new participant, George discusses what the individual’s tobacco history is like. “I explain to the participant what nicotine addiction or dependence is; we look at what triggers that individual [has] to use the amount of tobacco that they do,” she said. Tobacco use triggers are unique to each individual, George explained. Some people may
smoke or chew tobacco when they are under stress, after they eat, or even while they are enjoying a favorite activity. Participants are offered quit aides such as nicotine replacement therapy — patches, gum and lozenges — and prescription medication that can be used up to 12 weeks. “It’s not just the medication only,” stressed George. “It requires a behavior change and that’s what we’re working on, a behavior change.” Using medication allows participants to “cut back and stop using tobacco and it allows them to work on that behavior change. It’s a behavior change that has to take place and that’s what we want them to do.” George stressed that quit aides, such as nicotine replacement theraphy, should never be used simultaneously with tobacco. “We provide these things through our pharmacy, so you don’t have to go out and purchase them,” she stressed. According to the Center for Disease Control, tobacco use is responsible for about one in five deaths annually in the United States, or about 443,000 deaths per year. An estimated 49,000 of those are the result of secondhand smoke exposure. “As early as 20 minutes after stopping using tobacco, your circulation improves, your blood pressure drops,” noted George. “Two weeks to three months after you quit using tobacco, your lung function can increase 30 percent. The longer you remain tobacco-free, ten years or more, your risk for stroke decreases.” To make an appointment for a tobacco cessation session or to request a group session, call the central appointment line at 855-227-6331 and ask for the medication management clinic.
Obama: nation pours resources into mental health care for vets By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service
The Veterans Affairs Department is improving access for veterans to mental health services, President Barack Obama said June 3 in remarks that opened the National Conference on Mental Health. Obama and Vice President Joe Biden hosted the conference at the White House as part of the administration’s effort to increase understanding of and awareness about mental health and reduce the associated stigma. Obama delivered opening remarks, and Biden delivered closing remarks at the conference. “We’re ... doing more to support our troops and our veterans who are suffering from things like traumatic brain injury or PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder,” the president told the audience. “Today, we lose 22 veterans a day to suicide — 22. We’ve got to do a better job ... of preventing these all-too-often silent tragedies. That’s why we’ve poured an enormous amount of resources into high-quality care and better treatment for our troops.” In response to a presidential executive order, VA has hired 1,600 mental health providers and more than 300 peer-to-peer veteran specialists, according to a White House statement. The department also has enhanced the capacity of its crisis line by 50 percent and established 24 pilot projects in nine states where VA is partnering with community mental-health providers to help veterans more quickly access mental health services, the statement said. Joining the president on stage at the conference were Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K.
Shinseki, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Education Secretary Arne Duncan, among others. The president said VA is directing 151 of its health care centers nationwide to conduct mental health summits with community partners, which include local government officials, community-based organizations and veteran service organizations. The summits will be held from July 1 through Sept. 15 and will identify and link community-based resources to support the mental health needs of veterans and their families and increase awareness of VA programs and services, he explained. “They’re going to hold more than 150 summits like this one in communities all across the country so that every one of our service members and veterans understand [that] just like you take care of yourselves and each other on the battlefield, you’ve got to do the same off the battlefield,” Obama said. “That’s part of being strong.” Conference attendees are people from across the country — mental health advocates, educators, veterans, health care providers, faith leaders, members of
Congress, representatives from local governments and individuals who have struggled with mental health problems. They discussed how they can work together to reduce stigma and help millions of Americans struggling with mental health problems recognize the importance of reaching out for assistance. Obama said there should be no shame in discussing or seeking help for treatable illnesses that affect too many people. “We see it in veterans who come home from the battlefield with the invisible wounds of war, but who feel somehow that seeking treatment is a sign of weakness when, in fact, it’s a sign of strength,” he added. As part of the effort, the administration launched www.mentalhealth.gov, a consumerfriendly website with tools that help users with the basics of mental health and the signs of mental illness, and show them how to talk about mental health and how to get help. The website includes a series of videos featuring celebrities and other Americans whose lives have been touched by mental illness. In November 2011, VA launched an awardwinning, national public awareness campaign called Make the Connection, which is aimed at reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care and telling veterans, their Families, friends and members of their communities about VA resources. “We wanted to bring together folks who’ve suffered from mental illness and families who supported them,” Obama said. “We wanted to bring together advocates and educators, faith leaders, veterans, local officials — all of you have shown an extraordinary commitment to what is a critical goal, and that is to make sure that people aren’t suffering in silence.”
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PENTAGRAM PHOTO BY JIM DRESBACH
Sunset Parade
Marines from The United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, “The Commandant’s Own,” march onto the field June 4 in front of the Marine Corps War Memorial for their weekly Sunset Parade. They, along with the The Marine Corps Silent Drill Team, are featured at every parade from June through August. June and July parades begin at 7 p.m., while August parades have a 6 p.m. starting time. For more information on the Marine’s summer concerts and parades, go to www.barracks.marines.mil and click on parades.
PFPA welcomes Pentagon vet By Pentagon Force Protection Agency Communications Office
For veteran Pentagon Force Protection Agency employees who’ve long worked here, the Pentagon can sometimes lose its luster and mystique. The daily work grind can take its toll, and the sense of awe that an employee once felt from working in the nation’s capital, at America’s top military command center, can fade. But not for PFPA Special Agent Linwood Barrett, who, by doing a good deed for an elderly, 92-year-old woman and her family, now feels a renewed sense of professional purpose. Barrett was approached by a “friend of a friend” to give Audrey Brenner of Rhinebeck, N.Y., a tour of the Pentagon. Brenner, he was told, had worked at the Pentagon during World War II, when it was still being built. Now in the autumn of her life, she had one last wish before she died: to see the fully built and completed Pentagon. Linwood readily agreed to arrange the tour and, on May 3, served as Mrs. Brenner’s tour guide. It was an experience he says he will never forget.
“As I met Audrey Brenner and her family to begin their tour, I was greeted with a big smile,” he says. “Audrey spoke often about her employment at the Pentagon [the War Department in those days]. She spoke passionately about her work there, her love of country, the Pentagon, her family and friends.” Brenner worked as a stenographer for the War Department in 1940, in a one-sided building that preceded the Pentagon. In 1941, she was transferred to a vehicular manufacturing facility in Detroit before coming back to the Pentagon in 1945. Brenner soon met her husband and the rest, as they say, is history. Brenner raised a family, which today, cares for her; and the Pentagon emerged as an enduring symbol of American military preparedness in a volatile and dangerous world. “Sometimes,” says Barrett, “our most important history lessons do not come from a history book; they come from an icon of life. One of my history lessons came from a 92-yearold lady who has lived quite a life, and who enjoys telling people about her life. That, to me, is the true essence of history.” PHOTO
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Special Agent Linwood Barrett (left) poses with Audrey Brenner, 92, of Rhinebeck, N.Y. Brenner worked in the Pentagon while it was being constructed in the 1940s.
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Patrol, from page 1 arresting people. The bike patrol is present at special events, like Twilight Tattoo on JBM-HH and the International Festival at Fort McNair,” said Hazzard. “We’re also a vital part of promoting bike safety in the community and participating with the base’s safety day events.” Upholding the law is a vital part of the police department’s job, and the provost sergeant feels the police bike patrol is a convenient way to deter crime. “A criminal wouldn’t expect a police officer to suddenly ride up on a bicycle on the sidewalk in front of a building. Bike patrol is a great force multiplier … it gives us the ability to see and hear things, be mobile and at places we normally wouldn’t be able to go,” Hazzard said. Pfc. Michael Hughes returned to the bike patrol this year and is accompanied by rookie member Pfc. Adrian Tibbs, both members of the 289th MP Company on JBM-HH. The two-member team spends about 10 working hours out on patrol. If a mission requires additional patrol members, Hazzard said “Department of the Army civilian police officers support the mission with one trained officer per shift.” Selected by 289th MP Co. leadership, the Soldiers attended a one-week law enforcement bike course. Last year, Hughes completed the International Police Mountain Bike Association class in Leesburg, with another Soldier and 17 civilian police officers. Tibbs completed the course at the Rappahannock Criminal Justice Academy in Fredericksburg, training with sheriff’s deputies from neighboring counties. Hughes expressed an interest in being on police bicycle patrol last year when he heard there were slots available. “I’d never heard of MPs on bikes before, and it’s another part of my military experience,” said the Kansas City, Kan., native. Tibbs, a native of Detroit, Mich. said he grew up in the city and never thought about all the maintenance learned during training which is required for keeping up his two-wheel mode of transport. The course, a combination of classroom and road instruction, prepared the Soldiers to ride and handle police situations on bicycles during the day or at night. “Since we’re out in the open we learned to use the bike to shield us from a potential aggressor and maneuver safely through traffic,” said Hughes. “We also learned to conduct emergency stops, approach someone and shoot a weapon from the bicycle. It was physically challenging — riding more than 100 miles throughout the week,” Tibbs added. “We rode the bikes through an obstacle course, maneuvered the bike in a nine-foot ‘box’ structure and completed scenarios like cycling in a wooded area while searching for someone.” Both Soldiers credited the Army’s physical fitness requirements for already being in shape for the physically demanding work. “It’s a different type of cardio exercise than running,” said Hughes. The MPs spend nine-10 hours on shifts, riding the joint base, including Fort McNair and the vast acreage at ANC. They ride in extremely hot weather and rain, day or night. The bicycle patrol rides a mountain-style, law enforcement equipped bike, equipped with highquality shocks for cycling. “Last year the bikes we used were much heavier, and the ones we’re on this year are about 10 pounds lighter. I don’t feel as fatigued on the new bike. We also had problems with last year’s bikes — mostly getting a lot of flats,” said Hughes, who recalled changing tires about 10 times during his first season on patrol. “There was a sharp object inside my tire and almost every time I’d hit a bump, I’d hear a hissing sound and knew I had another flat.” Hughes said the MPs would not have the use of
a patrol car to transport the bikes this year. “It was convenient to keep a bicycle pump and spare tires in the car last year. “If anything happened we didn’t have to walk too far to change a tire.” The Soldier said he and his patrol partner would be careful not to get flat tires this year. “I went through a lot of tubes and can teach Tibbs not to pop a tire,” he said with a smile. Hughes was not bothered about having no patrol car to transport the bikes and store extra equipment this season. “If something happens, we’ll adapt and overcome. One of us will walk to get a spare tire or we’ll call another patrol car that may have a vehicle available to help us.” In addition to their patrols, the MPs perform weekly bike maintenance. “Every Friday we remove the rear tire, clean the chain and cassette, check the brakes, clean the bike entirely and ensure everything is in good working order,” said Tibbs. Both Soldiers said they enjoyed their work and had the trust of their provost sergeant to be out on their own as junior servicemembers and entrusted to complete missions. “Yes, we still pull people over, even while on bicycles. It’s our job to enforce the law but we really want people to know we’re out here to help them and they can approach us,” said Hughes.
Correction In an article on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall resources for stress management that appeared in the May 24 edition of the Pentagram, the telephone number for Family Advocacy Program Community Educator Karen Holmes was listed incorrectly. The correct number is 703-696-6511.
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Assault, from page 1 victim support and assessment,” he said. “We see ourselves as a national leader in sexual assault, its prevention and response,” Patton said. “Part of being a national leader is innovation, and the innovation you see today with the mobile app, the safe help room — the first of its kind with a peer-to-peer, secure venue — where victims of sexual assault can chat in a closely moderated and very professional chat room.” At the event, RAINN’s Kimberly “Toni” KorolEvans received the 2013 award for Safe Helpline Operator of the Year for her work with DoD victims and survivors. Wright told the audience of victim advocates, judge advocates general and sexual assault response coordinators that the work they do for sexual assault victims and survivors is noble. “What you really do is save lives, through your compassion and concern. The Safe Helpline and the chat room are safe, secure and private, and that’s what these victims of this horrendous crime need as they go through this support system,” she added. The advocates help to turn survivors around so they can lead a prosperous life after they’ve gone through such a tragic, emotional and physically violent act, Wright said.
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PENTAGRAM
Eisenhower lore centers around Fort Myer flag pole By Jim Dresbach Pentagram Staff Writer
Between West Point and the White House, Dwight D. Eisenhower lived on Fort Myer’s General’s Row. During a pair of stays at what is now Joint Base MyerHenderson Hall, the World War II general made Quarters One, Quarters Seven and the Whipple Field flagpole notable landmarks. In 1942, Eisenhower was based at Myer prior to heading to Europe and the daunting job of leading the Allied Expeditionary Forces. During his second stay as U.S. Army Chief of Staff from 1946 to 1948, the future president assembled his best-selling memoir, “Crusade in Europe,” and hosted foreign dignitaries, including
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Mamie Doud Eisenhower, wife of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, wanders through a vegetable garden on Fort Myer in 1946.
Winston Churchill and Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery. One of the most touching Eisenhower-related Fort Myer stories involves wife Mamie and the Whipple Field flag pole. Ike’s granddaughter, author and political analyst Susan Eisenhower, remembered the 1942 moment. “Ike left to take up the command in Europe while at Fort Myer’s Quarters Seven,” she explained. “For me, it’s a wonderful story of Mamie waving goodbye to the plane [by the flagpole] as it headed off for Europe in June of 1942. [Ike and Mamie] had this little agreement. He was leaving from Bolling [Air Force Base], and the agreement was he’d fly by Fort Myer and the pilot would tip his wings. There was quite a bit of poignancy to that moment. “They had no idea in 1942 what would happen,” Susan Eisenhower continued. “The British were in dire straits, and the outcome of the war was not at all clear.” Nearly eight months following the final victory in Europe, Eisenhower was on the move into Quarters One. Ike was named chief of staff Dec. 3, 1945, but a move-in date did not take place until 1946. Tim Rives, deputy director of the Eisenhower Library in Abiliene, Kan., has the documentation of when Ike hung his shingle at Quarters One. “We have the orders authorizing their move on February 1, 1946, although it appears the actual moving took place on January 31, 1946,” Rives said via email. “Ike was impressed with [Quarters One’s] size, and noted its generous proportions in a letter to Winston Churchill on January 22, 1946 in which he invited WSC to stay with him when he next visited Washington. On Jan. 30, 1946, he
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This black and white photograph of Gen. Dwight Eisenhower, then U.S. Army Chief of Staff, was taken in February 1948.
writes WSC again and noted that he looked forward to having the Churchills over for dinner when they visited in March.” According to Rives and an Eisenhower diary, that dinner took place March 9. Ike stayed at Myer until he was named president of Columbia University in New York City. By 1950, he was back in Europe as commander of NATO.
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The general and president passed away in 1969, and Mamie survived Ike by more than a decade. Susan Eisenhower remembered the date in November 1979 when Mamie’s memorial service was held at the Old Post Chapel. “My grandmother’s funeral was held in the chapel there at Fort Myer,” she said. “Her body was put on a plane and flown to Abilene, Kansas.”
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