Vol. 30, No. 5
March 8, 2013
Women’s History Month SHANNON BISHOP
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Every March, our nation celebrates the great accomplishments of women throughout American history. Many times when women’s history is remembered, people remember the accomplishments of the past such as women fighting for their right to vote. In 1920, over eight million women voted in a Presidential election for the first time, after fighting for women’s suffrage for years. Since then, women such as Rosa Parks, Sally Ride and Sandra Day O’Connor have greatly impacted the ways of our nation. Without Parks, we may not have had such a big movement regarding segregation. Without Ride,
women may have never traveled in space or made the discoveries we have today. Day O’Connor helped the United States Supreme Court decide many cases that otherwise may have resulted in drastically different decisions impacting the American people. Each and every accomplishment made, by man or woman, shapes the way our nation functions. It is important that as we move through everyday life, we acknowledge the actions that will later be remembered in history. Earlier this year, on January 24, the Pentagon signed an order opening all groundcombat military positions to women. The order lifts a 1994 rule, which stated that women could not be assigned to units in di-
rect ground combat. While this may be seen as controversial to some, it will greatly impact the way our military functions in combat zones. As we move through history, more progress continues to be made to show the equality between the great men and women of our nation. We should all take a moment this month to remember the great accomplishments made by so many women throughout history. The Fort Detrick community will celebrate Women’s History Month with an observance on March 20, 2013, at the Community Activities Center on post from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The 302nd Signal Battalion at Fort Detrick
The 302nd Signal Battalion at Fort Detrick held a change-of-command ceremony Thursday at the Odom Fitness Center. Incoming Commander Lt. Col. Billy Miranda assumed command from commander Lt. Col. Suzanne Self. Photo by USAG Visual Iinformation
What’s Inside
Social Media Find Garrison on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr! www.facebook.com/DetrickUSAG www.twitter.com/DetrickUSAG www.flickr.com/DetrickUSAG Find MRMC on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr too! www.facebook.com/USAMRMC www.twitter.com/USAMRMC www.flickr.com/people/usamrmc
Fort Detrick Club Welcomes New Inductees, p. 3
ISR Burn Flight Team Completes Mission, p.6
USAMRMC Office Receives Designation in Survey, p. 7
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Editorial Staff Lanessa Hill Melissa Miller Nick Minecci
Fort Detrick Sgt. Audie Murphy Club Welcomes New Inductees JEFFREY SOARES
USAMRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
The Fort Detrick chapter of the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club inducted its two newest members during a ceremony held at the Community Activities Center Feb. 22. Sharing the honors of induction at this event were Staff. Sgt. Patrick Omara and Staff Sgt. LaDonna Tolbert, both from Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Md., a subcommand of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command. Upon nomination by leadership, the candidates progressed through a series of review boards at various levels before advancing to the final review board, comprised of senior sergeant majors, who posed questions from subjects that include military leadership, counseling, weapons, world affairs/current events, and military programs. The final review panel was led by Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin B. Stuart, USAMRMC command sergeant major and SAMC-Fort Detrick board president. “These two Soldiers being inducted today are stellar performers and outstanding NCOs [Non-Ccommissioned Officers],” said Stuart. “Even beyond their induction into the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club, they have continually led their respective sections to great success, mentoring and training their Soldiers, and teaching them what it means to be professional and to be proficient in their skills.” Stuart said that induction into the SAMC remains very limited, as less than 2 percent of all Army NCOs comprise the entire club membership throughout the world. The guest speaker for the ceremony was Sgt. Maj. Kevin E. McCrary, Army Chief Information Officer, who serves as the Army’s CIO personal adviser on all enlisted matters in areas related to Information Technology. McCrary’s primary message throughout his speech was maintaining leadership support of all Soldiers, on and off the battlefield. In particular, McCrary spoke of the importance of the officer/NCO relationship within the Army. “There is nothing more exciting than to see the non-commissioned officer and the officer bond as one, based upon values, ethics, and ideals,” said McCrary. “What this shows is that it is more important than ourselves – everything that those two do together is about the Soldier.” Upon completion of McCrary’s speech, the spotlight was then turned onto the two Soldiers being honored for their outstand-
ing leadership skills and community service. A 68K medical laboratory technician, Omara entered the U.S. Army in January 2007, and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Organizational Management from Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tenn. His current duty assignment is Noncommissioned Officer-in-Charge of the Viral Diseases Branch at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in Silver Spring, Md. He is a graduate of the Army’s Warrior Leadership course and the Advanced Leadership course. Omara has been a member of the WRAIR Color Guard Team, WRAIR Unit Men’s Basketball team, and served as the Department of Biochemistry CFC coordinator in 2008. Among his other honors, Omara has been recognized as 2009 WRAIR Soldier of the Year, 2009 Fort Detrick Installation Soldier of the Year, and 2010 WRAIR NCO of the Year. He is a Level 1 Combatives Instructor and a current Equal Opportunity Representative for his unit, assisting the commander with the EO program and conducting EO training at various levels. Omara’s current awards include three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, and two Good Conduct Medals. Joining the Army in March 2007, Tolbert attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and was enrolled in the 68K medical laboratory specialist course where she completed Phase I at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Phase II at Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, and was the class honor graduate. Upon graduation, she obtained an Associate of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Science from George Washington University. Currently assigned as the NCOIC of the Division of Experimental Therapeutics at WRAIR, Tolbert has worked on various research projects and has seen publication of two research articles in the Clinical Journal of Microbiology and the Malaria Journal. She has held several duty positions including Unit Primary Equal Opportunity Leader, Unit Prevention Leader, Billing official, and Division Fire Warden, and she has completed the Warrior Leadership course, Advanced Leadership course, Combat Life Savers course, Combatives Levels One and Two, and the Commander’s Total Fitness course. Among Tolbert’s awards are the Army Commendation Medal (2OLC), Army Achievement Award (7OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. She has been
Staff Sgt. LaDonna Tolbert (left) and Staff. Sgt. Patrick Omara (right) cut the celebratory cake with Command Sgt. Major Kevin B. Stuart, USAMRMC command sergeant major, upon their induction into the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club at the Fort Detrick Community Activities Center Feb. 22. Stuart was also inducted as an honorary member of the SAMC in recognition of his years of service and leadership as the SAMC-Fort Detrick board president. Photo by USAMRMC public affairs honored as both the Soldier of the Month and the Quarter, and has held the title of WRAIR NCO of the Year for fiscal years 2009 and 2011. Brig. Gen. (P) Joseph Caravalho, Jr., USAMRMC commanding general, provided the closing speech for those in attendance, and he congratulated the members of the SAMC, as well as all NCOs, past and present, who have served in the Army. “I’ve always wanted to be an NCO,” said Caravalho. “NCOs in the United States Army are called ‘the backbone of the Army,’ and that really means something. It’s not until you deploy downrange that you realize how powerful our Army truly is, because of the strength of our NCOs.” “Today we’re honoring two great Americans, two great NCOs,” he said. “And as we talk about diversity, this means different perspectives, and different skill sets, that people bring with them to the fight, and this is certainly of high value to our nation.” Well known for his career as a film star in the 1950’s and 1960’s, Audie Murphy gained
notoriety as the most decorated U.S. combat soldier of World War II. Among his 33 awards and decorations, he was given the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military award for bravery bestowed upon any individual in the United States. The legacy left behind by Murphy after serving only three years of active duty in the U.S. Army may never be matched, and this storied heritage remains the foundation of the SAMC since its establishment at Fort Hood, Texas, in 1986. “Sgt. Audie Murphy was a man who gave a lot of himself, and he devoted much time to the community, which is a primary aspect of this club,” said Stuart. “These two outstanding Soldiers, Staff Sgts. Omara and Tolbert, volunteer many off-duty hours to help out others in the community on a regular basis, and they have done this long before their induction into the club. They are role models for both military and civilian personnel.”
MWR Chocolate Extravaganza
The guests at the Family and MWR’s Chocolate Extravaganza enjoyed an assortment of chocolates in The Lounge at the Community Activities Center in celebration of Valentine’s Day. A chocolate fountain, along with marshmallows and strawberries, was served, with the biggest hit of the night being the bread pudding slices drizzled with chocolate. Photo by FMWR
A small crowd was able to enjoy not only wonderful chocolate selections but also hot appetizers and a chocolate wine and brandy tasting. Photo by FMWR
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Fort Detrick Standard March 8, 2013
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The 15th Annual Treasured Heirloom Event
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It’s time to dig through the trunks and boxes stored in your attic and basement and gather up those whatnots you’ve collected over the years to find out what you’ve really got! The Historical Society will hold its fifteenth annual Treasured Heirloom Event - the region’s biggest and best antiques and collectibles evaluation event - on Saturday, March 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Delaplaine Center, 40 South Carroll Street in Frederick. If you haven’t attended before, you won’t want to miss the event this year. It will fea-
ture about a dozen experts who will be on hand to provide verbal estimations of value and information about the items you bring. The experts’ specialties include folk and fine art, jewelry, prints, photographs, toys, militaria, furniture, tools, quilts and other textiles, clocks, lamps and lighting, and other antiques and collectibles. The event is one of the Historical Society’s biggest events of the year. All proceeds benefit the Historical Society’s educational public programs. Visit www.frederickhistory.org for more information.
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Fort Detrick worked up a sweat at the Zumbathon, a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program that blends red-hot international music, created by Grammy Award-winning producers, and contagious steps to a form of a fitness-party, on Saturday, March 2. For future Zumbathon events, please check the Family and MWR Calendar at http://www.detrick.army.mil/mwr/events.cfm. Photo by FMWR
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Fort Detrick Standard March 8, 2013
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Students Enhance Knowledge of Specific Subject Areas SHANNON BISHOP
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
A select group of children in third, fourth and fifth grades from Whittier Elementary in Frederick, Md., spend their Monday afternoons with peers and teachers discovering and exploring the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM courses. These kids work to improve problem-solving skills and increase their knowledge in subject areas in which typical students show less interest. “It gives them Monday afternoons, something to look forward to. It gives them critical thinking skills, an opportunity to get down on the floor and do something they don’t usually get to do in a classroom,” said Crystal Snyder, director of Youth and School Age Services. Currently, the group is discovering and exploring the world of magnets. Kids work in groups of 2-3 to build Maglev trains. Maglev trains are trains powered by magnets. “We are looking to build and strengthen the kids’ knowledge of science and math
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for MSA [Maryland School Assessment] testing,” first grade teacher and STEM instructor Judi Michael said. “We are hoping to build on skills that these kids might not be as interested in without being involved in STEM.” “The small groups allow the kids to be more comfortable,” said Michael. She went on to explain that many of the kids who are very timid and unwilling to participate in the classroom thrive in the environment that STEM provides. “The kids want to participate in this environment. We have seen great improvements with kids who weren’t interested in these subjects before. Improvements with note taking, revisiting text and problem-solving skills have been noticed,” Michael said. Michael explained how Frederick County schools are working to make all subject areas transition smoothly into one another. Not too long ago, students had very specific times for math, language arts, and other subject area classes. Now, schools are focusing on teaching kids to be problem solvers, independent learners and independent thinkers in order to be more successful in their education.
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Fort Detrick Standard March 8, 2013
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USAMRMC Migrates to Enterprise Email System, Expanding Mailbox Storage Sizes JEFFREY SOARES
USAMRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
As part of an overall U.S. Army initiative, the U.S. Army Medical Command and the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command will soon be migrating to an email system that is managed by the Defense Information Systems Agency. Commonly referred to as Defense Enterprise E-mail, or DEE, this conversion will take place for the majority of USAMRMC employees on April 2-3, 2013, while conversion for overseas locations including the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center, Europe, and the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center, Korea, will occur on March 7 and March 26, respectively. Although all users from MEDCOM and USAMRMC will be affected by this change initially, the entire Department of Defense, including the U.S. Army’s Army Knowledge Online website, will eventually migrate to the Enterprise email system. During this change, AMEDD email addresses will remain active so that messages sent to these accounts may be automatically forwarded to the new DEE (mail.mil) accounts to prevent email messages from being lost or stranded in cyberspace.
“Although a large part of this change is due to cost-savings measures throughout the DoD, there are many other benefits attached to this action as well,” said Robert Wilson, USAMRMC Senior Information Assurance manager. “Users will be able to access a larger global email address list that will include not only include AMEDD accounts but also a vast portion of DoD and Army accounts initially, with all DoD and Army accounts being available in the future plan. Also, users will see a significant increase in their mailbox size, which will be expanded from the current 100MB to 4GB.” Wilson said that the Information Management/Information Technology sections across the USAMRMC have been migrated previously to ensure that lessons learned can be developed and to remedy any fault areas prior to the general user population migration. However, he notes that the following issues may possibly affect some users due to the migration: • Users may experience a minor delay when opening Microsoft Outlook as their new profile is configured; however, this should only last a matter of minutes. • Blackberry users will be required to “reset” their devices; this
will be accomplished remotely by completing a series of steps that are sent to all Blackberry users following successful migration to the new DEE. • Exchanging encrypted email with users who have not been migrated may require the exchange of email certificates once again. • “Dual personas” (i.e., personnel with multiple DEE accounts, typically a Reserve Component Service Member and Civilian/Contractor) will need to ensure that they have completed the checklist for dual personas and that users sending email are using the appropriate email address. • Not completing all of the pre-migration steps could lead to delays in migration or failure altogether. Wilson acknowledged that these minor issues may appear pesky for some, but he remains confident that the majority of users will see little or no change per the migration. “Overall, our experience has been that users who complete the pre-migration checklists see little effect during the migration, and they will only need to re-apply the client-specific settings to have a successful migration,” said Wilson. In anticipation of this change,
all users have received an information paper that outlines a variety of ways in which everyone may begin to prepare. Users will be given checklists to complete the required actions for pre- and post-migration. Some of these actions include updating the Defense Manpower Data Center with the most current user information, ensuring that one’s mailbox size is less than 100MB, and backing up any client-specific Outlook settings. Also, users will be asked to identify all organizational mailboxes, distribution lists, and calendars and assign an owner, as well as ensure that they have been slated for migration by the IM staff. Wilson said that this is being completed by the office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Information Management for users at USAMRMC Headquarters. Although most users are concerned with what may happen during the migration, Wilson said that certain actions must be completed afterwards to ensure a successful migration as well. He said that users will receive post-migration checklists referenced as part of the information paper, and this will include re-applying any clientspecific Outlook settings, such as personal signature blocks.
Wilson reiterated that everyone should remember that the AMEDD email system is not being decommissioned right away, and all mail sent to current AMEDD email addresses will be automatically forwarded indefinitely, to include AMEDD distribution lists and organizational mailboxes. “Users should begin using their new email addresses on future correspondence to ensure that their contacts, especially non-DoD contacts, have this information prior to the decommissioning of the AMEDD mail systems,” said Wilson. “Users should also ensure that they complete ALL of the steps on the pre-migration checklist, especially the DMDC update and reducing their mailbox size to 100MB or less. All of these steps will be very helpful to ensure a smooth migration.” If users have general questions prior to the migration, they may contact Wilson at 301-6190779, or robert.a.wilson15.civ@ mail.mil. However, for assistance with backing up settings, etc., or for questions during and after the migration, users should contact the Enterprise Service Desk at 800-USA-MITC, or 800usamitc@ amedd.army.mil.
ISR Burn Flight Team Completes Record-Breaking Mission STEVEN GALVAN
ISR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
For more than 60 years, the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (ISR) Burn Center at Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, Texas has provided specialized medical response through its Burn Flight Team (BFT), to deploy and transport burn and critically injured patients throughout the world to the ISR Burn Center for definitive care. On February 22, the team set a new record for the longest continuous flight by flying for 19 hours on a non-stop flight from Singapore to San Antonio and traveling more than 9,850 miles, surpassing its previous longest flight by more than 3,000 miles. Since its inception in 1952, the BFT has been able to deploy its five-person teams year-round within hours of notification of a mission. The specialized team is normally composed of a burn surgeon specialized in critical care, a critical care registered nurse, a licensed vocational nurse, respiratory therapist, and an operations non-commissioned officer. The team usually departs from the San Antonio International Airport on a commercial flight with all the specialized critical care equipment necessary to transport one or more patients on an Air Force C-17 con-
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figured for patient care en route to San Antonio. For the last decade, the BFT has conducted almost 100 missions between Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany and transported more than 350 patients injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. The recent mission to Singapore provided unique challenges for the team as they transferred the patient from the hospital to the aircraft and on to San Antonio. According to Lt. Col. (Dr.) Booker T. King, Team Leader and Burn Center Deputy Director, the mission went precisely according to plan with a combined effort from all the branches of the U.S. military, the International SOS organization, and the TRICARE Pacific Area office. “The success of the mission relied on all these agencies working together in order to coordinate multiple aspects of the transfer beyond that which we normally experience when flying in and out of Germany,” said King. In order to make this mission a success, Army team members synchronized their efforts with the Marines on the ground; with the Air Force for the transport aircraft, the Navy for ground transportation and storage of the equipment in Singapore; and the ISOS and TRICARE for the care management
and transfer of the patient from the hospital to the aircraft. “The success of the recent Burn Flight Team mission to Singapore exemplifies the dedication of military professionals demonstrating limitless commitment to care for their brothers and sisters in arms,” said ISR Burn Center Director, Col. (Dr.) Evan Renz. “It also reflects the collaborative efforts of a tri-service team whose skills have been honed over a decade of combat support.” As with all transport missions, highly trained personnel and specialized equipment are used to stabilize the patient for the long flight home. Both Air Force Critical Care Air Transport Teams (CCATT) and BFT can be utilized to transport burn casualties. “Many burn patients are transported by CCATT,” said King. “We are usually involved with patients who sustain burns over 40 percent of their body or those with inhalation injuries.” King also explained that the BFT is ideally suited to care for casualties with complex traumatic injuries—such as those with a combination of burns, amputations, chest, abdominal and head injuries. The six team members on the Singapore mission were King; Cpt. Michael A. Campbell, a critical care nurse; two licensed vocational nurses—Sgts. Macneil Ra-
Photo by Staff Sgt. Seth B. Holland
Left to right: Capt. Michael Campbell, Lt. Col. (P) Booker T. King, Sgt. Nikenson Penette, and Staff Sgt. Daniel J. Nelson, monitor the patient during the flight from Singapore to San Antonio. mos and Nikenson Pennette; and two respiratory therapists—Staff Sgts. Seth B. Holland and Daniel J. Nelson. “Everyone on this team has to be proficient with their job,” King said. “Also, it’s not uncommon for a team member, for example a respiratory technician to assist the nurse and help with wound care while we are mid-air. We all work as a team for the benefit of the patient.” Not all Soldiers assigned to the Burn Center will become members
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
of the BFT. Before anyone is selected to be a member of the team they have to work on the burn ward for many months and be selected from among their peers. “And successfully complete Air Force CCATT training,” said Holland, who has been with the BFT for more than a year. Once a mission is complete the BFT members immediately prepare for the next one and stand ready to live up to their motto “Anytime, Anywhere.”
Don’t Roll the Dice CARYN SCHROEDER
HEALTH NET FEDERAL SERVICES
As part of its month-long colorectal cancer awareness campaign, staff at Health Net Federal Services, LLC, the managed care support contract for the TRICARE North Region, spoke with a U.S. Air Force officer about his recent colon cancer diagnosis. For him, work came first. He was responsible for more than 5000 people and worldwide operations, including flying the GPS constellation. He considered that to be his priority above routine health care. In December 2010 – at the insistence of his secretary who rescheduled the appointment three times – U.S. Air Force Col. Wayne Monteith had his first colonoscopy at the age of 51, almost a year after his doctor’s initial recommendation. One reason for the delay was what Monteith called “institutional,” but he also felt he just didn’t need one. “We are raised in our careers with a warrior ethos, to not complain and not get sick. For me, having rarely been sick, I construed it as a sign of weakness,” he said. He’s not alone. According to TRICARE® North Region claims data, nearly 40 percent of TRICARE Prime beneficiaries who see civilian providers remain overdue for colorectal cancer screening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists colorectal cancer as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States among cancers affecting both men and women. Colorectal cancer screenings can, in many cases, prevent colon and rectal cancers, by finding and removing polyps before they turn cancerous. Heading in to his appointment, Monteith felt he was in great health. He had been a competitive runner and his physical fitness score put him in the top 1 percent of the Air Force. It wasn’t until the physician assistant came to speak with him after his colonoscopy and started crying, that he realized something was wrong. “My doctor informed me I had an aggressive tumor that could kill me if not removed,” said Monteith. “I’m not sure if it sunk in immediately, but I certainly knew they had to be wrong. I had no symptoms. Zero.” Yet, according to the American Cancer Society, most people diagnosed with early colorectal cancer do not experience symptoms. Symptoms such as blood in the stool, persistent stomach pain and unexplained weight loss may not appear until the disease has progressed. Because of the size of his tumor, surgery was scheduled within the week. He said even then, he didn’t quite accept what they were going to do. He didn’t even bring an overnight bag with him to the hospital. The surgery resulted in the removal of one-third of his large intestine and the adjacent lymph nodes, and a four-day hospital stay. Pathology reports confirmed stage 3 colon cancer. About two weeks later, chemotherapy treatments started.
“To be blunt, chemo sucks,” Monteith said. “If I can help one person avoid chemotherapy, then I’ve done my job.” He describes just one side effect, cold sensitivity – especially while receiving treatments in Colorado Springs, Colo., during winter – as “drinking a cupful of glass” when breathing in the cold air. The American Cancer Society indicates as many as one in five people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history of the disease. For Monteith, he didn’t learn his family history until he was already diagnosed. “While still in the hospital, my father told me he had polyps removed when he was 40. Had I been armed with that information, my doctor told me I would have been instructed to be screened at least ten years earlier. We may have avoided this entirely,” he said. Monteith’s message about the importance of discussing family medical history is simple: “It’s vital that you ask; it could save your life.” Monteith is in remission and looking forward to celebrating the five-year mark when he can officially declare he is cured. “That’s the big event we are looking to celebrate,” he said. He describes another positive to his colorectal cancer experience – the discovery of early-stage melanoma during a routine follow-up last year. He says the finding and removal of the melanoma would not have occurred had he not been going through this. “My family describes it as, ‘Wayne: 2, Cancer: 0.’ I’m not looking to go 3-0. And certainly not 2-1,” said Monteith. To his fellow military community, Monteith offered, “Don’t roll the dice.” He said it’s not about feeling lucky. He feels fortunate, not lucky, that the screening caught the disease. “I believe people think, ‘It won’t happen to me.’ I would have said the same thing the day before my colonoscopy.” TRICARE covers routine colorectal cancer screenings at no cost to TRICARE beneficiaries when they see a network provider. For more information, facts and tips, visit www.hnfs.com and like Health Net Federal Services on Facebook. Col. Wayne R. Monteith currently serves as Deputy Director, Department of Defense Executive Agent for Space Staff and Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force (Space), Pentagon, Washington, D.C. In his prior position, Monteith was the Commander, 50th Space Wing, Air Force Space Command, Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., where he led more than 5,300 military, DoD civilians and contractor personnel serving at 14 operating locations. TRICARE is a registered trademark of the TRICARE Management Activity. All rights reserved.
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USAMRMC Office of Research and Technology Applications Receives Designation in Survey CHELSEA BAUCKMAN USAMRMC PAO
Have you ever seen a new product or gadget and thought to yourself, “Why didn’t I think of that?” At the United States Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, innovation occurs constantly in the research labs and on the field as Soldiers, scientists, and medics tackle the issues that affect Soldiers. These new ideas and discoveries that come out of the command are patented and then transitioned to the private sector through the USAMRMC’s Office of Research and Technology Applications, which negotiates license agreements with companies, who then commercialize the USAMRMC’S technologies. Recently, USAMRMC’s ORTA was named number four in Department of Defense license-related sales; this designation affirms that the research conducted at the USAMRMC has resulted in many successful technologies. In addition to developing new and exciting technologies for use on the battlefield and in the treatment of wounded and recovering Soldiers, the ORTA coordinates intellectual property licensing on behalf of the command and its laboratories. The office, located at Fort Detrick, Md., coordinates Cooperative Research and Development Agreements, Material Transfer Agreements, Interagency Agreements, Nondisclosure Agreements, and other technology transfer transactions. This work expands the Army’s capabilities and furthers the mission of the USAMRMC. “Licensed products being sold on the commercial market are the end result of the MEDCOM Technology Transfer program,” said Dr. Paul Mele, director of the USAMRMC ORTA. “Research from Army laboratories results in products that are commercialized and available for purchase by the military and civilian sector.” Occasionally, the ORTA coordinates with an intermediary organization to facilitate partnerships that can lead to new and cutting-edge technology for military medicine. One such organization is TechLink, funded by the DoD . Through coordination with TechLink, the command is able to discover new technologies by partnering USAMRMC labs with private sector companies for technology licensing, transfer, and research and development. The DoD has more than 120 labs and research centers nationwide. TechLink has facilitated partnerships with 101 of these labs and centers, linking them with private industry for technology licensing, transfer, and joint research and development. “TechLink markets USAMRMC’s technologies and capabilities to industry to find qualified technology transfer partners, pursues leads, helps companies evaluate USAMRMC’s technologies for potential licensing, and helps companies submit high-quality license applications and commercialization plans,” said Will Swearingen,
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
executive director of TechLink. “We also help broker CRADA agreements for joint technology development, facilitate communications with companies while license agreements and CRADAs are being established, and work to get ‘win-win’ technology transfer agreements between USAMRMC and companies.” For more than a decade, TechLink has been conducting a DoD economic impact analysis that has helped to designate USAMRMC’s Technology Transfer Office as number four in DoD license-related sales, with more than $240 million in license-related sales. The study, which was completed earlier this year, cites that the nationwide economic impact from all USAMRMC license agreements from 2000 through 2011 totals more than $1,200 million. The study was undertaken in partial response to a White House request that required all federal executive departments and agencies to improve the results of their technology transfer and commercialization activities in order to stimulate economic growth, create new companies, industries and jobs, and maintain US-global competitiveness. The study was intended to establish a baseline of how well DoD labs were doing in generating positive outcomes and impacts. “The study’s two-fold purpose was to determine the extent to which DoD license agreements have contributed to new economic activity and job creation in the United States,” said Swearingen, “and resulted in the transition of new technology to U.S. military use.” Currently, the USAMRMC has 23 products on the market, commercialized via licensing agreements. The partnership between the USAMRMC’s ORTA and intermediaries like TechLink ensure that the best and newest technologies are readily available. One such technology is the Special Medical Emergency Evacuation Device. Developed in 2000 by an Army staff sergeant at the United States Army Institute of Surgical Research during a mass casualty exercise, the SMEED is a stretcher with a steel platform that allows medical equipment to be strapped to the stretcher rather than to the patient. This is particularly useful with burn patients and amputees. The USAMRMC ORTA licensed the SMEED in 2002 to Impact Instrumentation, a small company in New Jersey. Purchased by the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, the SMEED has been utilized in missions throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan. For a program-specific breakdown of the economic impact analysis, contact the USAMRMC ORTA at USAMRMCORTA@amedd. army.mil or (301) 619-6975. Fort Detrick Standard March 8, 2013
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The Army Wellness Center, Carlisle Barraks Supports Fort Detrick COL. MITCHELL BREW
The Army Wellness Center at Carlisle Barracks officially opened its doors on September 14, 2012, and by January 2013, it began its first traveling visit to support Fort Detrick and the 21st Signal Brigade Soldiers. The mission: Promote enhanced and sustained healthy lifestyles to improve overall well-being of Soldiers and family members through integrated and standardized programs and services. The leaders of Barquist Army Health Clinic took a tour of the new facilities and discovered many capabilities that could be brought back to support a healthy lifestyle for families in the Fort Detrick community. In January, Barquist sponsored the team from Carlisle Army Wellness Center as they visited A Company 53rd Signal Battalion and the 298th Signal Company at Fort Detrick, and it conducted health
assessments. The goal of these health assessments is to take a proactive approach toward health rather than a reactive approach, as well as to empower people with knowledge and tools to take control of their own wellness. These ideas, in addition to the Surgeon General’s strategic vision to move from a health care system to a system for health, are the driving forces behind the creation of Army Wellness Centers. The staff involved has been very supportive and generously travel to local military communities like Fort Detrick. Additionally, both First Sgt. Kidd and First Sgt. Turk thought this was a great opportunity and an eye opener for the younger Soldiers. The Army Wellness Center at Carlisle Barracks offers services in six core categories: Body composition (body fat, BMI, metabolic rate), Flexibility/muscle endurance, Stress management, Tobacco awareness, Wellness education, and Healthy nutrition. The staff will use results from the health assessment to generate customized recommendations for each client. The Army Wellness Center will provide nutritional advice, exercise routines, stress management techniques, and behavioral modification that will assist clients
in making lasting changes to unhealthy lifestyles. Once a client completes an initial assessment, the staff will establish regular follow-up times that will document and track progress, obstacles, and solutions. Assessments and results as well as any pertinent information from the counseling sessions will be noted in the client’s electronic medical record. This will allow the clients’ Primary Care Manager to remain abreast of progress and interject any additional medical advice as well as provide integrative and comprehensive care. Appointment referrals can also be made from the Army Wellness Center to Barquist Army Health Clinic, as needed. The next visit to Fort Detrick is tentatively scheduled for April 18, 2013. Any interested personnel can make appointments by calling Capt. Patricia Alvarez at 301-619-1268. Eligible DoD beneficiaries and units can also visit the Army Wellness Center at 315 Lovell Avenue, Carlisle Barracks, Pa. 170135086. To make an appointment and visit the center, please call 717-245-4004. The website address is http://Dunham. narmc.amedd.army.mil/armywellnesscenter/default.aspx.
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Finding Hidden Money: Personal Transportation PAM TUCKER
ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE
Everyone enjoys finding hidden money, especially in today’s economy. A great way to reap some unexpected savings is with your personal transportation expenses. Make sure to keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure and keep your engine tuned. Doing both of these could save you over $100 a year. Drivers should frequently check their tire pressures in the winter because tire pressure can go down as the air gets colder. Tire experts agree that reducing your tire pressure as an attempt to increase traction in the snow is a bad idea. Driving on seriously under-inflated tires will damage them, costing you more in the end. Combine your errands into one outing whenever possible. Driving less will definitely save more in fuel. Also, try to avoid sudden stops and fast start ups when out on the road. As we all know, this isn’t always possible when driving the highways around our area. However, by avoiding abrupt stops and starts you will save money on both gas and future maintenance. Carpooling on those days you work or sharing rides with neighbors are also great ways to save money and enjoy each other’s company. Clean out your car of unnecessary items to increase your gas mileage. This doesn’t refer to that empty soda can or straggling french fry in the floorboard. Do an inven-
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tory of what you have in your trunk. Keep your normal safety items and emergency winter gear but remove things like your golf clubs that add unnecessary weight. You should take a look at your insurance policy. It may be time to get new quotes from different companies instead of sticking with the same provider. Consider your deductible amounts and what types of coverage you currently have. You could potentially save hundreds by switching companies or by getting a better deal with your current provider. Always remember to shop around for gas. You can download phone apps that allow you to price gas without using gas to search for the lowest prices. Gas Finder, Gas Buddy, and Fuel Finder are just a few to consider. If you are an authorized AAFES user or belong to a major warehouse superstore, look to fill up there. Many places also charge less per gallon when paying with cash. Some supermarkets allow you to earn gas savings while doing your grocery shopping. At these supermarkets, buy gift cards for any purchases you know you will be making. This way you will keep yourself on budget when shopping AND you will earn fuel credit for purchasing the gift cards. Using gift cards as cash could put double savings in your pocket! If your destination is just down the street, consider walking. Not only will you save money but you will get exercise and fresh air.
Summer Camp Registration Coming Soon!
SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION CYSS Parent Central Services 924 Doughten Place Sign-ups will be held April 8 - April 12, 2013. Registration is only for ACTIVE CYSS members. Any new enrollees must come back after April 12, 2013. April 8th Active Duty assigned to Fort Detrick 09:00 - 10:30 a.m. Single Active Duty and Dual Active Duty 10:30 - 12:00 p.m. Active Duty with a fulltime working or student spouse and Active Duty part-time working or student spouse 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Active Duty with an unemployed spouse April 9th DOD Civilians assigned to Fort Detrick 09:00 - 10:30 a.m. Single DOD and dual DOD 10:30 - 12:00 p.m. DOD with a full-time work-
ing or student spouse and DOD with a parttime working or student spouse 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. DOD with an unemployed spouse April 10th Make-up Day for any Active Duty or DOD assigned to Fort Detrick 10:00 - 1:00 p.m. April 11th Active Duty not assigned to Fort Detrick 10:00 - 1:00 p.m. April 12th NON DOD Federal Employees working on Fort Detrick Campus 10:00 - 1:00 p.m. All customers new and current must update or complete new registration paperwork for their child in advance of Summer Camp Sign-ups. All paperwork must be completed and reviewed by March 25, 2013. Please call Parent Central Services today to make an appointment, 301-619-7100.
For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,
visit www.dcmilitary.com.
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Fort Detrick Standard March 8, 2013
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Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development