Pentagram Vol. 62, No. 49 December 10, 2015
www.army.mil/jbmhh
IMCOM: Individual development plans key to reaching career goals
Published For Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall
Runnin’ for the holidays
By Guv Callahan Pentagram Staff Writer Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall hosted a series of briefings for employees in Career Program 29 on Dec. 3 and 4 in order to inform them about the career development and advancement opportunities available through the Army. The briefs tie into a recent push to increase and improve communication with the joint base’s civilian employees, giving them insight into how they can maximize their Army career potential, said Ken Washington, JBM-HH’s director of human resources. Many of the opportunities are focused on allowing careerists to gain certain credentials, said Tim Weathersbee, CP29 program manager and the brief’s main speaker. It is the goal of Installation Management Command leadership to provide an environment that promotes and enables innovative and adaptive installation management professionals through training, education and experience, according to Weathersbee.
photo by Nell King
Sabrina Anderson, a Cody Child Development Center student, runs the Operation Santa Ugly Sweater 5K Dec. 4 on Sheridan Avenue near the Fort Myer Fitness Center on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The frosty morning did not deter the runners from coming out and showing off their ugly sweaters. See full coverage, page 3.
see CAREER, page 4
Fueling Soldiers on the go By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer The dining facility on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall has introduced a first-of-its-kind for installations in the Mid-Atlantic region meal program that is designed to refuel Soldiers after physical training and get them on the move to their next assignment. Known as Grab and Go, the initiative is in support of the Fuel the Athlete Soldier program and seeks to teach Soldiers good nutrition habits in order to improve both their health and performance, said Capt. Paul Amis, commanding officer of the 529th Regimental Support Company. According to Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Cordon, Grab and Go is
photo by Nell King
Sgt. Ben Stein, who works at the dining facility on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, hands a Grab and Go Meal to Pvt. Matthew Pierce of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Dec. 1. The Grab and Go meal program offers three healthy options daily for service members on the go.
see DFAC, page 4
Thrifty shopping in the winter leads to grants and scholarships in the spring Fort Myer Thrift Shop benefits military-affiliated students, families in the National Capital Region By Arthur Mondale Pentagram Staff Writer Approximately 55 volunteers keep customers from all over the National Capital Region returning to the Fort Myer Thrift Shop all 146 days the store is open throughout the year. “If we sell 50 items right now, we’ve got another 150 items to sort through that came in this morning,” Fort Myer Thrift Shop Chairperson Kathy Candido said. This is good news for long-time customer Melissa Juras, a military spouse who has become a
see THRIFT STORE, page 6
photo by Arthur Mondale
A long line of customers wait patiently at the Fort Myer Thrift Shop cashier’s counter Dec. 1. Some shoppers are known to return to the store more than once a week seeking rapidly changing inventory and bargains, according to management. The store is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and the first Saturday of every month.
News Notes Last Pentagram issue of 2015 – Dec. 17
The final issue of the Pentagram in 2015 will publish Dec. 17. The paper will not be published the last two Thursdays in December. The first issue of 2016 publishes Jan. 7. That edition is a year-in-review edition, reflecting on the best stories, photos and events of 2015 at JBM-HH. The only new content in that issue will be the News Notes section. The first full regular issue of the Pentagram in 2016 will publish Jan. 14. For more information, call Pentagram Editor Jim Goodwin at 703-696-5401.
Annual CFC extended through Dec. 31
During the forthcoming holiday season and time of giving, we are asked to remember those less fortunate,
and pay it forward to help others. There are a number of ways to participate in this year’s Combined Federal Campaign, which now runs through Dec. 31: Contact your CFC keyworker; login at www.cfcnca.org; or contact JBM-HH Campaign Manager Barbara Edmondson at barbara.c.edmondson.naf@ mail.mil or 703-696-3110.
Wreaths Across America to impact Fort Myer traffic Dec. 12
The annual “Wreaths Across America” event will be held in Arlington National Cemetery Dec. 12, and as a result, the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall may see increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic between
see News Notes, page 4
Index
Holiday hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . News notes.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deck the Barracks. . . . . . . . . . . . Winter safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CID warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
page 2 page 3 page 4 page 5 page 7 page 8
Thurs. 63 | 42
Local forecast
Fri.
66 | 42
Sat.
69 | 47
Sun.
67 | 56
For more weather forecasts and information, visit www.weather.gov.
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Thursday, December 10, 2015 Pentagram
A parade of lights on water
photo by Nell King
Greg Drenter, captain of the vessel Stimulus Package, and his family participate in the 24th annual Parade of Lights competition Dec. 5 along the Potomac River. Drenter, dressed as Santa, and his family won second place in the competition. Over 45 decorated vessels took sail across the Potomac River from Old Town Alexandria, Va., into the district’s southwest waterfront in Washington, D.C. The event took place under clear but chilly skies. Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall’s Lt. Col. Johnathon Kupka, commander for Headquarters Command Battalion, served as one of three guest judges at the event. See more imagery from this event at www. flickr.com/photos/jbm-hh.
JBM-HH Christmas and New Year’s Day Operations and services holiday hours Army Community Service
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3510.
AAFES Main Exchange
Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. For more info, call 703-522-4575.
Closed. For more info, call 703-351-6559 (Barber Shop), AAFES Concessions: Barber Shop, Cleaners, GNC, Optical 703-358-9257 (Cleaners/alterations), 703-522-6786 (GNC), Shop, Subway, Starbucks 703-528-9122 (Optical Shop), 703-243-1786 (Subway), 703-527-0101 (Starbucks). AAFES Express (Shoppette) and service station (gas pumps)
Closed. ***Note: gas pumps are open 24/7. For more info, call 703-696-9241/44.
American Clipper Barber Shop
Closed. For more information, call 703-271-8177.
Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic
Closed Dec. 25 and Dec. 28, as well as Jan. 1 and Jan. 4. All dental sick-call and emergencies should report to the Fort Belvoir Community Hospital for support during this time frame. For more information, call 703-696-3460/3461.
Auto craft shop
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3387.
Bowling Center
Open noon to 6 p.m. For more information, call 703-528-4766.
Car Wash (MCCS)
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Cody CDC
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3095.
CYSS
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-4942/0313.
Community Activity Center
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3470.
Fife and Drum Corps Lounge
Closed. For more information, call 703-524-0200.
Firestone
Closed Dec. 25. Open Jan. 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 703-522-2584.
FMWR Admin Offices
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3305.
Fort McNair Fitness Center
Closed. For more information, call 202-685-3117.
Fort McNair Officers’ Club
Closed. For more information, call 703-524-0200.
Fort McNair Five Star Catering
Closed. For more information, call 202-484-5800.
Fort Myer Fitness Center
Closed. For more information, call 703-524-0200.
Fort Myer Officers’ Club
Closed Dec. 25. Open Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve dinner in the Koran room. Closed Jan. 1. For more information, call 703-524-0200.
Fort Myer Veterinary Treatment Facility
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3604.
Headquarters Command Battalion
The battalion will operate with reduced manning Dec. 21-23 and Dec. 28-30. The battalion will be closed Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31Jan. 1. For more information, call 703-696-6377.
Java Café
Closed. For more information, call 571-483-1962.
Library
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3555.
Marine Corps Exchange, Vineyard Wine & Spirits and NEX Uniform Center
Closed. For more information, call 703-979-8420.
Military Clothing Sales (Fort Myer and Pentagon stores)
Closed. For more information, call 703-696-3515 (Fort Myer) or 703-695-6446 (Pentagon).
Military Police Station
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information, call 703-696-3525.
Old Guard Lounge
Closed. For more information, call 703-524-0200.
Religious Services
See special holiday schedule on right. For more information, call 703-696-3535.
Spates Five Star Catering
Closed. For more information, call 703-527-1300/1302.
Spates Community Club
Closed. For more information, call 703-527-1300/1302.
JBM-HH holiday schedule of religious services Editor’s note: For information about any of the below listed events, call the JBM-HH Religious Services Office at 703-696-6635.
JBM-HH community events • Dec. 10 Advent concert (featuring The U.S. Army Voices) – 11:30 a.m.; Luncheon – noon; Devotional – 12:25 p.m. • Dec. 17 Advent concert (organist Alvin Gustin and soprano Rebecca Littig) – 11:30 a.m.; Luncheon – noon; Devotional – 12:25 p.m.
Protestant chapel community • Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service (Combined Protestant congregation) – 7 p.m.
Gospel community • Dec. 13 Advent worship service (Third Sunday of Advent) – noon • Dec. 20 Advent worship service (Fourth Sunday of Advent) – noon • Dec. 27 Worship service – noon
Catholic Community Advent/Christmas
Most offices on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall will be closed Friday, Dec. 25 and Friday, Jan. 1, both federal holidays. Most military personnel will have a training holiday Thursday, Dec. 24, and Thursday, Dec. 31. Some activities will be open with reduced staffing. The following facilities and places of business have reported open or closed hours for Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Unless otherwise noted, the list applies to Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. This alphabetical list is not all encompassing; please check with the facility you wish to visit for more details. Stay connected!
www.army.mil/jbmhh
Pentagram
703-696-5401 pentagramjbmhh@yahoo.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/jbmhh
• Dec. 10 Advent Penance Service/individual confessions — 7 p.m. • Dec. 12-13 Third Sunday of Advent • Dec. 13 Children’s Christmas Pageant during 9 a.m. Mass • Dec. 19-20 Fourth Sunday of Advent • Dec. 24 Choral prelude; Chapel and Hand Bell Choir- 4:30 p.m.; Solemn Christmas Mass – 5 p.m. • Dec. 25 Christmas Mass – 9 a.m. • Dec. 26-27 Feast of the Holy Family • Dec. 31 Vigil Mass for the Feast of Mary, Mother of God/Holy Day of Obligation – 5 p.m. • Jan. 1 Mass for the Feast of Mary, Mother of God – 9 a.m. • Jan. 2-3 Feast of the Epiphany • Jan. 9-10 Baptism of the Lord
Flickr: Flickr.com/photos/jbm-hh
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 e-mailed to james.m.goodwin3. civ@mail.mil. Circulation of 24,000 is printed by offset every Thursday 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 non-merit 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.
Twitter: @jbmhh Col. Michael D. Henderson Commander Command Sgt. Maj. Randall E. Woods Command Sergeant Major Mary Ann Hodges Director of Public Affairs Sharon Walker Command Information Officer
Slideshare: slideshare.net/jbmhh Jim Goodwin Editor james.m.goodwin3.civ@ mail.mil Lorraine Walker Graphic Designer lwalker@dcmilitary.com Nell King Photographer nking@dcmilitary.com
Julia LeDoux Staff Writer jledoux@dcmilitary.com Guv Callahan Staff Writer wcallahan@dcmilitary.com Delonte Harrod Staff Writer dharrod@dcmilitary.com Arthur Mondale Staff Writer awright@dcmilitary.com
Community
Pentagram
Thursday, December 10, 2015
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Holiday tree, Santa signal start of holiday season on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer Rain and fog didn’t dampen spirits Dec. 2 as Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall held its annual holiday tree lighting ceremony at Brucker Hall on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base. A concert of traditional hol-
iday music performed by The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” was moved inside due to the weather, but participants caught a break when the rain that had been falling throughout the day let up enough to allow everyone to go outside to see the tree come to life in a blaze of red, green, blue
and white lights. In remarks that opened the ceremony, joint base Commander Col. Mike Henderson noted that the Department of Defense currently has troops deployed to more than 150 countries around the world.
see TREE, page 8
photo by Nell King
Landen and Christian Clark sit on Santa’s lap during the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at Brucker Hall Dec. 2 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Despite the rainy evening, onlookers came to enjoy the tree lighting and children spent time with Santa Claus.
Ugly Sweater 5K participants work up a sweat in hideous fashion By Arthur Mondale Pentagram Staff Writer
photo by Nell King
The medals for the Operation Santa Ugly Sweater 5K and 1-Mile Walk lay displayed on a table outside of the Fort Myer Fitness Center Dec. 4 on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Over 40 runners participated in the race and received the participation medals for their effort.
Fashionable workout wear was out—and absurd, tacky sportswear was in—during the 2015 Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Commander’s Race Series Operation Santa “Ugly Sweater” 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk Dec. 4, which kicked off at the Fort Myer Fitness Center on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base. Registrants decked out in their “holiday ugliest” received reindeer antlers and over-indulged in candy canes prior to making the roughly three-mile trek. Some runners were more creative than others, like U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Nathaniel Barthell, who channeled the North Pole’s senior misfit Will Ferrell as “Buddy the Elf.” He was dressed in a full elf uniform that was equally too small and over-the-top, complete with a
curly brown afro atop his head and a half-used bottle of maple syrup in hand. Barthell was joined with seven other runners who ran as a team from Headquarters Command Battalion. “This is my family,” Barthell said. “We came to support each other in the holiday spirit. If one person says they’re going to do it, we get together and decide to all do it.” Those sentiments were echoed by runners of all ages, including a handful of grade-school participants from the Cody Child Development Center, who also were decked out in their holiday ugliest. “The kids just grabbed whatever and it ranged from 80’s glam to 3-D novelty—it didn’t take them long to get creative,” said Annette Engum, Youth Sports and Fitness director
see UGLY SWEATER, page 4
Barcroft Elementary School Students celebrate Christmas with the Marines (and Santa) By Delonte Harrod Pentagram Staff Writer Children from Barcroft Elementary school received a gift from the Marine Corps: A chance to sit and talk with Santa about their Christmas wish lists. Barcroft Elementary School students and teachers were bused Dec. 7 to the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall to celebrate the holidays with Marines, Sailors and parent volunteers. “We are continuing our legacy, a 35-year tradition with Barcroft Elementary School,” said Chanel Sharp, school liaison for Marine Corps Community Services Henderson Hall. “This is a holiday party we have around Christmas time [that allows] Sailors and Marines to connect with the children and give back to the community.” “My daughter likes this stuff,” said Felicia Starr, a parent vol-
see BARCROFT, page 8
photo by Delonte Harrod
U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Griggers volunteers his time to help students create pine cone snow globes Dec. 7 at the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gym on the Henderson Hall portion of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The Marines of Henderson Hall invited students from Barcroft Elementary School in Arlington, Va., to celebrate Christmas at Henderson Hall, decorating sugar cookies, creating ornaments and spending time with Santa.
HHH
The United States Army Band CALENDAR OF EVENTS
HHH
Dec. 10
Noon
The U.S. Army Voices will perform at the Memorial Chapel as part of the Memorial Chapel Advent Concert Series on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH.
Dec. 10
7:30 p.m.
The U.S. Army Blues and All Brass Big Band will perform a Stan Kenton Christmas and Duke Ellington Nutcracker at Brucker Hall on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH.
Dec. 13
3 p.m.
The U.S. Army Blues and All Brass Big Band will perform a Stan Kenton Christmas and Duke Ellington Nutcracker at Brucker Hall on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH.
Dec. 13
4:30 p.m.
The U.S. Army Chorus will perform a holiday concert at the Main Line Unitarian Church at 816 South Valley Forge Road, Devon, Pa.
Dec. 19
6 p.m.
The U.S. Army Chorus returns to the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage for an evening of holiday music in Washington, D.C. These musicians will kick-off a year of concerts and events in honor of the 60th anniversary of the group’s founding in 1956. This program will entertain with both religious and popular holiday tunes.
Jan. 14
5 p.m.
The U.S. Army Concert Band and Herald Trumpets will perform at Riverside High School Upper Belmont Place in Leesburg, Va., 20176.
Jan. 16
8 p.m.
The U.S. Army Blues Swamp Romp will perform an evening of jazz sprinkled with Cajun sauce at The Mainstay at 5753 Main Street in Rock Hall, Md., 21661. This concert will feature French-Louisiana sound that has influenced American popular music for decades.
Performances are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. All outdoor concerts are subject to cancellation or location change due to weather considerations. Call 703-696-3399 for up-to-date information on concert cancellations or location changes. For additional details and a full calendar of performances, visit www.usarmyband.com/event-calendar.html.
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Thursday, December 10, 2015 Pentagram
career
news notes
And much of IMCOM’s goal relies on competency management, giving employees the skills they need to get to where they want to be. “This idea of competency management is probably what’s most important and most helpful,” Weathersbee told the attendees at the first brief. He urged employees to take stock of what they hope to achieve in their careers, then map out the best course attaining it. “Look at where you want to be – the next position, or one down the road,” Weathersbee said. But what if an employee wants a position but lacks the skills or experience required? “The key to that is the individual development plan,” he said. He recommended that employees sit down with their supervisors and have honest conversations about their futures, and to lay out the training, education and developmental opportunities that would be necessary. In order to use funds for education career training and development, employees must have accounts on Army Career Tracker (https://actnow.army.mil) and Go Army Ed (https://goarmyed.com). “We cannot process your request without you having those accounts,” Weathersbee said. “If you don’t have those accounts, I would encourage you to set them up. It’s pretty simple.” He also gave employees a walkthrough of some of the specific programs available to them, including Certified Public Manager Training and Academic Degree Training. Certified Public Manager Training is an online program run through Arizona State University that teach-
8 a.m. and noon. Find out more about “Wreaths Across America” at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. If you have questions or concerns call the JBM-HH Military Police operations desk at 703-696-3525. On the day of the event, call 703-722-6558.
from page 1
from page 1
Christmas tour of New York City – Dec. 12
photo by Nell King
Donna Maxey, director of Plans, Analysis and Integration for Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, right, listens as CP29 Program Manager Tim Weathersbee speak during the CP29 Career Program session at the Community Center Dec. 4 on the Fort Myer Portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
es trainees about finance, leadership, management, ethics and more. The program relates directly to IMCOM leadership’s focus on helping employees gain credentials, according to Weathersbee. Additionally, the program is used in 40 of 50 states by municipal and state governments to train their personnel. “I think that’s a really good program,” he said. “If we get the funding that we’re hoping to get, we’ll be able to have 12 careerists this year to complete that training.” The application deadline for Certified Public Manager Training has closed, but employees should still look into it, according to Weathersbee. But the Academic Degree Training Program, in which the Army helps pay for an employee’s education, is still accepting applications, he said. The applicant must already be accepted to an accredited college or university and must intend to seek a degree related to their job, according to Weathersbee. “It has to be related to your job, and in installation management, that’s normally pretty easy,” he said. “It’s a really good program,”
DFAC
from page 1
also designed for those who choose not to eat inside the dining facility, but would like a well-balanced meal. Cordon also estimates that Grab and Go is forecast to serve between 50 and 100 service members daily. “The initiative’s intent is to refuel Soldiers with the adequate amount of nutrition and protein following a PRT [physical readiness training] workout,” explained Amis. Grab and Go’s implementation in the National Capital Region was the brainchild of Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region/U.S. Army Military District of Washington Commanding General Maj. Gen. Bradley Becker, Amis said. The current Grab and Go menu
photo by Nell King
A Grab and Go Meal sign is displayed at the Dining Facility Dec. 1 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The Grab and Go meal program offers three healthy options daily for service members on the go.
offers a 3-day rotation of nutritionist approved meals: Day one’s meal is a Southwest chicken and egg wrap sandwich with skim milk and banana; a green mon-
Weathersbee said. “We’ve only had one person so far take advantage of it. The process is pretty intense but I would encourage you, if you want to compete to have your degree funded, that you plow through the process. We’ll do everything we can to help you.” He added that candidates seeking a masters of public administration degree might have a better shot at getting accepted into the program. “It’s the belief of senior leadership that it’s the best return on investment for the army,” he said. “That’s not to say that another degree … wouldn’t be considered. Any completed application will be considered.” The deadline to apply to the Academic Degree Training Program is Dec. 23. More information about these specific programs can be found on Army Career Tracker, at https://actnow.army.mil. To see the full presentation from the CP29 briefing, including information about the Intern Program and other resources, visit www. slideshare.net/JBMHH/cp29. Pentagram Staff Writer Guv Callahan can be reached at wcallahan@ dcmilitary.com. ster smoothie and oatmeal with mixed nuts and raisins; or cereal, skim milk, hard boiled eggs and banana. Day two’s meal is an egg and cheese sandwich, skim milk and banana; mixed berry smoothie and oatmeal with mixed nuts and raisins; or cereal, skim milk, hard boiled eggs and banana. Day three’s menu allows Soldiers to select from a peanut butter sandwich, low fat yogurt and banana; tropical smoothie and oatmeal with mixed nuts and raisins; or cereal, skim milk, hard boiled eggs and banana. The cost of the grab and go meals are $3.45 each. The program began Nov. 16; Grab and Go meals are available during the dining facility’s regular operating hours of 7 to 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Contact Pentagram Staff Writer Julia LeDoux at jledoux@dcmilitary.com.
Departing the Community Activity Center at 5:30 a.m. Have you already seen the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular? Join us for a day of holiday sightseeing in New York City. Visit Macy’s flagship store (the one on 34th Street … where miracles happen), shop at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market in Central Park, visit the world’s largest Toys R Us store in Times Square and finish the trip touring the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, New York (featured on HGTV). Cost is $85 per person and includes admission and transportation. Call Leisure Travel Services at 703-696-3469/3470.
National Capital Region is ‘no drone zone’
The District of Columbia and cities and towns within a 30-mile radius of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport are a “No Drone Zone.” This includes the Fort Myer, Fort McNair and Henderson Hall portions of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. It also includes Arlington National Cemetery. Operating an unmanned aircraft in this area for any purpose is against the law. For more information see www.faa.gov/uas/no_drone_zone/dc.
Don’t allow holiday glee make you forget operational security
OPSEC at home: Things often get so hectic around the holidays that sometimes we completely forget about basic security; someone else is looking to take advantage of this hectic time. Remember to: • Be alert to public works crews and other personnel requesting access to your residence. Did you call for service? Verify their identity before allowing entry to your home. • Write down the license plate number of a suspicious vehicle and note the description of occupants. • When socializing at parties, don’t talk “shop” and be wary of attempts to elicit information. • Report suspicious activity to the police or local law enforcement.
Tax center looking for volunteers
The Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Consolidated Tax Center is looking for volunteers for the 2016 tax season. The tax center will be opening on Jan. 18 and will remain open through May. Free training for the 2016 tax season volunteers will be held Jan. 4-88 at the U.S. Army Legal Service Activity building on Fort Belvoir. This will be a classroom environment with training presented by IRS and American Bar Association experts. A second week of training will be provided from Jan. 11-15 at the tax center on the joint base. Volunteers will practice creating tax returns and become certified IRS-trained tax preparers. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in becoming certified tax preparers. Anyone interested in this opportunity should contact Philip Jussel, senior paralegal, Legal Services Division, at 703-696-0761 or email philip.w.jussel.civ@mail.mil.
ACS volunteer association holiday program
Want to put a smile on the face of a military child? The JBM-HH Army Community Service volunteer association is sponsoring a holiday toy program in conjunction with the garrison chaplains’ holiday food assistance program. Bring new, unwrapped toys to the donation boxes at the Fort Myer Post Exchange, Fort Myer Commissary or Bldg. 201 on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base through Dec. 16. For additional information, call 703-696-3510. Service members who may be eligible to receive food vouchers/toys should contact their JBM-HH unit first sergeant for referral.
2016 scholarship applications now being accepted
In partnership between the Fort Myer Thrift Shop and Army Officers’ Wives’ Club of the Greater Washington Area, applications are now being accepted for the 201516 school year. Applications must be received and/or postmarked by March 25, 2016. Information about the scholarship program and applications to include the eligibility requirements are now available on the following web sites at www.fortmyerthriftshop.org or www.aowcgwa.org under “scholarships” and “community grant” links. In 2015, the partnership awarded $105,500 for scholarships. Dedicated volunteers and staff generously give of their time, working numerous hours every year at the Thrift Shop to raise funds for deserving students through scholarships. The Thrift Shop is a 501 c (3) tax exempt organization that raises funds for both scholarships and community grants through donations and consignments. Tax receipts are available for all donations made to the Thrift Shop. photo by Nell King
Runner Jennifer Ritchie participates in the Operation Santa Ugly Sweater 5K Dec. 4 on Sheridan Avenue near the Fort Myer Fitness Center on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Ritchie was the race’s overall female finisher with a time of 27 minutes and 40 seconds.
UGLY SWEATER from page 3
within the Cody Child Development Center. The “Ugly Sweater” 5K and 1-Mile Walk was the last event in the Commander’s Race Series for 2015. The next race—the Shamrock Shuffle—is set for March 18, according to JBM-HH Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s
race organizer Todd Hopkins. Hopkins advises everyone affiliated both with the race and the JBM-HH community, that in lieu of the break in event schedule, people should remain active over the next few months and avoid over-indulging. U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Lloyd Ingling agreed. “You have to make time for yourself throughout the holidays,” Ingling said. “Make time during the holidays to do 30 to 60 minutes of physical ac-
tivity everyday throughout the week. It’s great for your physical health, mental health and attitude. It makes you a better person.” Results from the race: First place runners in the men, women and youth overall category were Kurt Rorvik with a time of 20:03, Jennifer Ritchie with a time of 27:40, and Quinn Plummer with a time of 23:00. Pentagram Staff Writer Arthur Mondale can be reached at awright@ dcmilitary.com.
Brunch with Santa – Dec. 13
Dec. 13 — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Spates Community Club and Conference Center, on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH. Enjoy brunch with Santa before he takes his “round the world” tour. Adults — $25, children (ages 6 to 12) — $12.50 and kids under 5 years old dine free. Bring a camera and get a photo of your child with Santa. Reservations are required. Call Spates at 703-696-5147 for reservations or for more information.
Federal employee benefits open season through Dec. 14
Open season for federal benefits runs through Dec. 14. Employees are responsible for ensuring they update their information and make any necessary changes during this time. For more information, log onto the
see NEWS NOTES, page 6
Pentagram
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Deck
the Barracks Holiday spirit in full swing for Henderson Hall Marines, families
By Julia LeDoux Pentagram Staff Writer Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall got into the holiday spirit over the past two weeks with several events designed to bring cheer to the battalion’s Marines and their families. On Dec. 4, the Single Marine Program decorated the Kickback lounge inside the Marine Barracks (Bldg. 416) on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base with a festive tree and other holiday decorations. “I think this will make them feel at home,” said retired Marine Master Sgt. Wendy Kelly, who volunteered for the event. “They are missing their family, and we are giving back to them. It’s awesome.” SMP coordinator Marissa Johnson, who spearheaded the decorating, agreed.
“They are missing their family, and we are giving back to them. It’s awesome.” - Volunteer Wendy Kelly photos by Nell King
“The Kickback is like their living room,” she explained. “They come down (from their rooms) and it’s decorated so it reminds them of home.” H & S Battalion commander Col. Andrew Regan, battalion Sgt. Maj. Robert Pullen and Master Sgt. Jeremy Owens served as judges for a door decorating contest that drew four entries. Coming in first place was Cpl. Remington Hall, who decorated his door with a rendering of famed Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller, who wore red penguin flannel pajamas while posed next to a tree. SMP President Alex Palmer came in second with his Christmas tree door. Rounding out the field were Cpl. Marjorie Sanchez, who decorated her door with a Santa Claus and cotton beard. Sgt. Pedro Hernriquez’s door featured Santa Claus wearing combat boots. The Marines and families of the battalion gathered at Washington Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. Dec. 5 for their annual holiday party, which featured a tour of the stadium and visits with both Teddy the racing president and Santa. Pentagram Staff Writer Julia LeDoux can be reached at jledoux@dcmilitary.com.
Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall Commander Col. Andy Regan and volunteer Wendy Kelly decorate a Christmas tree at the U.S. Marine Corps barracks Dec. 4 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Regan and battalion Sgt. Maj. Robert Pullen also judgede a door decorating contest during their visit to the barracks.
Cpl. Remington Hall of Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall won the Marine Corps barracks door decorating contest Dec. 4 at the U.S. Marine Corps barracks at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall with his “Chesty in his Penguin Onesie” door. Hall hand drew the image of Lt. Gen. Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller, the most decorated Marine with five Navy crosses.
Amy Proce, Exceptional Family Member Program administrative assistant, prepares to hang up a wreath at the U.S. Marine Corps barracks Dec. 4 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Proce volunteered her time to bring some holiday cheer to the barracks and the Marines who live there.
Deck the Barracks volunteers pose for a photograph at the U.S. Marine Corps barracks on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Dec. 4. Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall Commander Col. Andy Regan and battalion Sgt. Maj. Robert Pullen judged a door-decorating contest during their visit to the barracks.
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Thursday, December 10, 2015 Pentagram
THRIFT STORE from page 1
self-described master of bargain-hunting when budgeting for a household that includes three school-aged children. “It’s the best buy in town—I’ve saved so much money on clothes, jewelry, fur coats—I have something from this thrift store in every room of my house,” Juras said. “Bunk beds, lamps, rugs, clothes, napkins, table clothes and even curtains.” The same bargain-hunting bug has also caught on to customers like Curtis Tucker, who is just as thrifty shopping for himself. The Vietnam veteran admits to scouring various installation thrift stores monthly, to include shops at Joint Base Andrews and Fort Belvoir. He said each store offers something different. “The clothing here at Fort Myer is affordable and durable, from uniforms to undergarments,” Tucker said. “You’ll get a real good deal on undergarments for the colder weather—off-base you might spend $80 to $90—in here I’ll spend $4 or $5.” Community grants and scholarships The bargains Juras and Tucker find and purchase, are part of a much larger contribution. Sales that average over $500,000 annually are returned back to National Capital Region in the form of scholarships and community grants. Community grants, for example, are open to any 501(c)(3) exempt non-profit organization that benefits any branch of service, according to Candido. “We’re a big proponent of many organizations,” said Candido. A long list of organizations received grants in 2015, to include U.S. Marine Corps families in need who recently received $6,000 worth of holiday food vouchers. While any agency that supports the military can apply for a community grant, scholarships are awarded solely to U.S. Army family members. Applicants eligible to apply must be high school seniors, college students or U.S. Army spouses who need funding to finish a college degree or complete a certification, Candido said. In a partnership with the Army Officers’ Wives’ Club of the Greater Washington Area (AOWCGWA), committees representative of both the Fort Myer Thrift Shop and AOWCGWA collect applications and factors including grade point averages, community involvement, college majors and award scholarships based on these combined components. And the money is sent directly to the institution, college or university. “It’s a very good, fair and honest way to award scholarships,” Candido said. This year, a record 39 scholarships were awarded totaling $105,500. But it wouldn’t have been possible without volunteers, customers and area donors who supply the goods. Volunteers and management call it a “winning circle”
NEWS NOTES from page 4
the health vendors websites to download their brochures or check out the Office of Personnel Management’s website at www.opm.gov/FEHBbrochures.
Generation Sext – Dec. 14
Army Community Service is hosting another Generation Sext workshop which is designed to teach parents the in’s and out’s of sexting and to protect their children from predators.This workshop is held Dec. 14, 10 to 11 a.m. at the ACS conference room in Bldg. 201 on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base.To register or for more information, call 703-696-3512.
Prostate cancer support group – Dec. 17
The Prostate Cancer Support Group meets at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center the third Thursday of ev-
photoS by Arthur Mondale
The Fort Myer Thrift Shop, on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, features both a main building (Bldg. 224) with wall-to-wall with furniture, housewares and family apparel. A separate building and boutique (Bldg. 225) offers upscale ladies clothing, gift items, fine dinnerware and jewelry. Tag sales on inventory are frequent due to the volume of donations received daily and the need to move steady inventory, according to Fort Myer Thrift Shop Chairperson Kathy Candido.
because proceeds for a variety of needs are filtered back into military communities in the National Capital Region. And items that aren’t sold are given to the Frederick Rescue Mission in Maryland, for a number of other outreach services. Customers are equally appreciative of the Fort Myer Thrift Shop deals, and the impact of their purchase. Sales are open to the general public. “I tell everyone about it,” Melissa Juras said. The Fort Myer Thrift Shop is open Tuesday, Wednes-
day and Thursday from 10 to 2:30 p.m. And the first Saturday of each month from 10 to 3 p.m. Scholarship applications are already being accepted from now through March 26. Community grant requests are being accepted beginning Jan. 1 until April 14. For more information visit www.fortmyerthriftshop. org or www.aowcgwa.org, or call the Fort Myer Thrift Shop at 703 527-0664. Pentagram Staff Writer Arthur Mondale can be reached at awright@dcmilitary.com.
ery month. The next meeting will be Dec. 17 from 1 to 2 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the America Building, River Conference Room, third floor of the medical center. Spouses/partners are welcome to attend. Department of Defense ID cards are required for base access to Walter Reed. For those without a DoD ID, call the prostate center at 301-3192900 at least four business days prior to event for base access. For more information, contact retired Col. Jane Hudak at 301-319-2918 or jane.l.hudak.ctr@mail.mil.
at about 8 p.m. Cost is $62.50 per person and includes admission and transportation. So, come enjoy the awesome holiday light display, walk through an authentic German Christmas market and give any last gift requests to Santa. This event is open to all Department of Defense ID card holders. Call Leisure Travel Services at 703-696-3469/3470.
AOWCGWA luncheon – Dec. 17
The Army Officers’ Wives Club of the Greater Washington Area will host a luncheon in honor of the 75th anniversary of the USO Dec. 17, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Myer Officers’ Club on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH. This event will feature guest speaker Ranna Armstrong, center manager of the USO Warrior and Family Care Center at Fort Belvoir, Va. Armstrong will discuss the history of the USO from its beginnings during World War II to today. Reservations for this luncheon can be made online at www.aowcgwa.org, but must be made by Dec. 8. For more information about the luncheon or the club, contact Arlicia R. Albert at 409-454-0408.
Christmastown at Busch Gardens – Dec. 19
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Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation’s Leisure Travel Services is hosting a day trip to Christmastown at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., Dec. 19. A bus will depart the Community Activities Center (Bldg. 405) on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base at noon and leave the Bush Gardens park to return to JBM-HH
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Bring the whole family to enjoy glow bowling NewYear’s Eve Dec. 31, from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the Bowling Center on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base. For $25 per person (five and under are free), you’ll get shoe rental, party favors, food, music, prizes and more. Call the Bowling Center at 703-528-4766 for more information.
Manage your health care with TRICARE Online
Did you know you can manage your health care from your home? With TRICARE Online, you can schedule and cancel medical appointments with your assigned provider from your home. You can also download your lab results, order prescriptions, and receive e-mails or text messages from your provider. Simply log-onto TRICARE Online at www.tricare.mil/SecureLogin.aspx using one of the following options: Common Access Card (CAC) login, Defense Finance and Accounting Service My Pay account login, Department of Defense Self-Service (DS) Account (login and password.) TRICARE Online is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For additional information, please visit TRICARE Online or call 877-TRICARE or 703-696-3452.
Seeking to improve your public speaking skills?
Want to improve your speaking and leadership skills? The Pentagon Legacy Toastmasters Club offers free meetings every Tuesday, 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. at the Pentagon Main Cafeteria (directly under CVS and Dunkin’ Donuts in the Pentagon) on a first come, first served basis. This Pentagon-based Toastmasters Club provides training and practical experience in improving public speaking, listening and leadership skills. For more information, contact Carl Sabath at carl.e.sabath.civ@mail.mil or via phone at 703-695-2804 or Bert Romero at joseh.h.romero6@mail. mil or via phone at 703-695-3443. Anyone with debts owed to or by the estate of 1st Sgt. George D. Mosteller, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center-Warrior Transition Brigade, must contact 1st Lt. Sara Laszaic, the Summary Court Martial Officer for the Soldier. Mosteller passed away Nov. 27. Call Laszaic at 301-538-2832.
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The Fort Myer Thrift Shop on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer Henderson Hall is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and the first Saturday of every month. Approximately $10,000 to $12,000 is generated from Saturday sales alone, with proceeds benefiting military communities across the National Capital Region in the form of community grants and scholarships, according to Fort Myer Thrift Shop Chairperson Kathy Candido.
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Send your submissions for the Jan. 7, 2016 edition of the Pentagram via email at pentagramjbmhh@yahoo.com no later than noon, Dec. 30. Submissions must be 100 words or less and contain all pertinent details. Submission of information does not guarantee publication.
Pentagram
Thursday, December 10, 2015
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Winterzing homes, caution critical to safe holiday and winter seasons
By Delonte Harrod Pentagram Staff Writer Editor’s Note: This is the third in a four-part series of articles designed to generate awareness and provide helpful safety tips during the winter. Shoveling snow, checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and keeping track of your health this holiday season may seem trivial—but taking the initiative do so may be the difference between life and death. Adrain Kendrick, chief of Safety and Occupational Health, said there are multiple reasons why unintentional deaths and injuries happen in and outside the home during the winter months. For one, he said people introduce objects into their homes that sometimes aren’t normally there, like space heaters and live Christmas trees, during the winter. Live Christmas trees are hazardous when they aren’t properly watered as they can become highly flammable, according to James Dansereau, one of three fire inspectors on JBM-HH. Dansereau wrote in an email that when a live Christmas tree is not watered, it dries out making it vulnerable to heated objects like light bulbs and space heaters. Home fires, according to the American Red Cross, are a common disaster and many Americans are uninformed about this fact.
“[Live Christmas trees] take a lot of water to keep them moist,” Kendrick explained. “Then of course you have heaters; a lot of folks use heaters [and] a lot of heaters are not certified [to be used]. Some of them have no grounding wires and present a safety hazard in the house. If [it’s] put close to a Christmas tree, it [can] catch on fire.” “Only run the lights [on the Christmas tree] during the hours that you’re awake,” said Kendrick. “[Residents should] unplug their space heaters before [going] to bed.” “Follow manufacturers’ recommendations of how many strings of lights can be interconnected,” Dansereau added. Then there’s the problem of inoperable or faulty smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and tasteless gas, which makes detection—and exposure—difficult. Because of this, symptoms can be mistaken for every day illnesses. Exposure to the gas produces symptoms that are similar to that of the flu— but without the fever, which consists of headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness, according a document from the U.S Army Combat Readiness Center. “The fumes get into your house and it hits people pretty quickly,” Kendrick said. Dansereau recommends resi-
Photo by Rachel Larue
Icecles cling to the edge on Bldg. 321 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall after a winter storm Jan. 22, 2014. Icelcles are only one of many potential hazards to be avoided while working in the winter weather, according to JBM-HH safety officials.
dents replace their detectors older than 10 years, and said there should be a detector on every floor and installed in every bedroom. He also recommends ensuring detectors have working batteries. But Kendrick is not only concerned about the how to’s of prevention, he said. He’s also concerned about the elderly who shovel their own driveways in the winter. “Man, that snow can get heavy,” he said. “It can cause your heart rate to go up and over-exertion can cause folks to have heart attacks and strokes.” To prevent unintended injuries and death at home, Kendrick said the elderly should go see their doctor for a physical examination before shoveling snow. He believes such preventative steps are key to winter
safety at home, he said. “[Death] can be prevented,” said Kendrick. “If [we] can say something or give some information that will help…that’s what we are about.” Kendrick and Dansereau offered the following advice for those who want to prepare their homes for the winter: • Have your heating system professionally serviced to ensure that it is cleaned, working properly and ventilating to the outside. • Space Heaters need to be plugged directly into an outlet. Do not use multi-plug adapters or extension cords with space heaters. • Place space heaters on wood floors or tile surfaces and not on rugs or carpets. • Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from combustible items such
as furniture, beds and curtains. • Choose space heaters with a guard to protect children and pets from the heating source. • Do not overload circuits with the use of a space heater. • Try to use environmentally-friendly deicers. Also, make sure to not to buy deicers that will crack drive ways; cracks in a driveway can cause a person to slip and fall. • When shoveling snow use proper lifting techniques. Lift by bending at the knees, not at the waist. And don’t try to finish the job at one time. For more winter safety tips, follow us on Twitter: @jbmhh, or visit the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center online at https://safety.army.mil. Contact Pentagram Staff Writer Delonte Harrod at dharrod@ dcmilitary.com.
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Thursday, December 10, 2015 Pentagram
CID warns of posting holiday travel plans online Courtesy of CID Public Affairs As Soldiers and their families prepare for the holiday season, the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, commonly referred to as CID, warns that posting travel plans on social media sites makes your home vulnerable to burglary. While Soldiers should always be vigilant in their postings to avoid releasing sensitive information, revealing personal holiday travel information puts Soldiers, their families and their homes at risk. “Social media is a powerful and frequently used tool for Soldiers, their families, and friends to stay connected, especially during the holiday season,” Daniel Andrews, director of the CID’s Computer Crime Investigative Unit, said. “Unfortunately, criminals use the same social media sites to conduct surveillance and identify potential targets.” In fact, Andrews said, posting vacation plans is like announcing to criminals that your residence will be unoccupied for an extended period. Additionally, personnel are advised to take basic home security measures before leaving their house. Basic home security measures, such as locking all doors and windows, not leaving spare keys outside, using variable light timers, keeping valuables out of sight, and having a friend retrieve mail and newspapers are the first line of defense against burglary. The use of a home security or video system is a further deterrent for criminals. CID officials encourage Army personnel to take the following steps to reduce their risk of being targeted by crooks in the virtual world: • Update your privacy setting on social
photo by Nell King
As Soldiers and their families prepare for the holiday season, the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command warns that posting travel plans on social media sites makes empty homes vulnerable to burglary by informing would-be criminals that homes are empty of people.
media sites before leaving for vacation. • Do not “check in” to airports or your holiday destination on social media sites. Sites, such as Facebook, use the GPS built into a phone to allow users to “check in” to businesses and locations across the country. This information tells would-be burglars that the home is likely to be vacant until the user announces their arrival at the airport for their return flight. • Do not post in “real-time.” Posting information about your location while you are there is equivalent to telling a would-be burglar that you are not home. To minimize the risk of burglary while
you are away, post information after you return home for the holidays. • Remove GPS data from pictures. GPS data, to include location coordinates, is automatically attached to photos taken from both smart phones and many digital cameras. When posted in real-time, the GPS coordinates gives a would-be burglar your exact location, which makes your home vulnerable if you are not there. • Do not geotag posts or tweets. Much like the Facebook “check in” feature, geotagging or adding your exact GPS coordinates to a Tweet or post tells would-
be burglars exactly how close you are to your home. • Monitor what family members post. A would-be burglar only needs one member of the family to announce that the family has left for vacation to know the house might be empty. Speak to all members of the family, especially teens, about what they are posting online. Additionally, personnel should review CID’s Computer Crime Investigative Unit’s crime prevention and online safety flyers at www.cid.army.mil/cciu2can. html for more ways to avoid being victimized.
photo by Delonte Harrod
Jhonae Jaghai, 6, tells Santa about her Christmas wish list after taking a photograph Dec. 7 at the Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gym on the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Many students from Barcroft Elementary School in Arlington, Va., met with St. Nick and confessed their Christmas wish lists. The holiday celebration was part of the Marine Corps Community Services Henderson Hall’s Marines Mentoring Millennials Program.
BARCROFT from page 3
volunteer, who surprised her daughter, Aneel Starr, a first grader at Barcroft Elementary. “For her, it’s fun [because] she gets to meet Santa and make arts and crafts.” When the children entered the gym, they greeted two lines of volunteers and Marines by
TREE
from page 3
“And it is because of those men and women that we can celebrate the holidays in whatever tradition we choose by gathering together as we have this evening,” he said. “So I ask if you know someone who is deployed, please reach out and wish them a happy holiday, give them thanks and say a prayer for their safe return.” Army Lt. Col. John Hill and his wife, Air Force Lt. Col. Alma Hill, along with
low-fiving them as they walked by with smiles on their way to their seats. Students participated in arts and crafts and decorated ginger manshaped ornaments, sugar cookies and created miniature pine cone snow globes. Though students were allowed to consume their artistically-decorated sugar cookies, Santa was easily the highlight of the celebration. With enthusiasm, children lined up one-by-one to sit with St. Nick their children, twins Olivia and Emerson, 4, and Logan, 3, helped Henderson light the tree in between drops of rain. “It’s wonderful to be able to participate in this, especially since we’re PCSing [permanent change of station] to Hawaii,” said John. And when Santa himself was seated in front of the tree inside Brucker Hall, Landon Clark, 3, and his brother, Christian, 2, were the first to whisper their Christmas dreams into his ear. “It was awesome,” said the boys’ mom, Salina. “I’m so happy they do this.” Pentagram Staff Writer Julia LeDoux can be reached at jledoux@dcmilitary.com.
and confessed their Christmas wish lists. “How many kids get a chance to come on a Marine Corps base to spend time with a bunch of different people?” asked Sgt. Timothy Bogue, a volunteer mentor for Marine Corps Community Services Henderson Hall’s Mentoring Millennials Program. “This is my first time here at this celebration. I think it’s good.They get to get out of school for a day and to hang out.”
Teachers, volunteers and children ended the celebration by all singing multiple Christmas carols, which included “Feliz Navidad” before boarding the bus and heading back to the school. For more information on the Marines Mentoring Millennials Program, see: www.mccshh.com/slmillennials.html. Contact Pentagram Staff Writer Delonte Harrod at dharrod@dcmilitary.com.
photoS by Nell King
Col. Mike Henderson, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall commander, right, and the Hill family light the Christmas tree during the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony near Brucker Hall on the Fort Myer portion of JBM-HH Dec. 2. The rainy weather did not deter military service families to join in the festivities.
The Hill family sits and enjoys the holiday performance by The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” prior to the annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony Dec. 2 at Brucker Hall on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Hill and his wife, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Alma Hill, along with their children, twins Olivia and Emerson, 4, and Logan, 3, helped Henderson light the tree in between drops of rain.