Vol. 30, No. 28
October 18, 2013
Stuart Addresses Soldiers at Town Hall Meeting SIDNEY HINDS
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR TO THE STANDARD
Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Stuart, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command’s Command Sgt. Maj., talks to enlisted Soldiers and Noncommissioned Officers during his final town hall, Oct. 3. Stuart will retire at the end of Oct.
Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Stuart, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, addressed For Detrick enlisted Soldiers and Noncommissioned Officers at the Odom Fitness Center, Oct. 3, discussing topics ranging from suicide prevention to the ongoing furlough and the government shutdown. Speakers took turns at the podium discussing topics of importance to the enlisted assembly. Lectures ranged from challenges facing the military in light of the furlough, to quizzes on suicide prevention, and discussions on Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention. Stuart stressed the importance of NCOs remaining “professionals both on and off duty” in regard to their behavior towards one another, in and out of the workplace. He also encouraged them to make the most
of their education benefits to further themselves as individuals and as future leaders. “Town halls allow us to educate and enlighten the Soldiers,” said Stuart. “It’s important to give the Soldiers the word on leadership; lots of the information that is disseminated electronically may not make it all the way out to them.” Stuart also presented awards to individuals for outstanding service. “I think it’s important for us to get a chance to meet the senior NCOs in person, because sometimes we don’t know who they are,” said Sgt. Dereck Abbey of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases. “I also think it is helpful to hear the information about suicide awareness and SHARP from the NCOs themselves.” This was Stuart’s final Fort Detrick town hall address, as he will be changing responsibility later this month.
Fort Detrick Halloween Events Schedule Oct. 25: Fort Detrick library will be holding a movie night in Bldg. 1520, Room 143, starting at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free for all. For more information call (301) 619-2892/2839. Oct. 26: BOSS is hosting trips to see the Walkerville Ghost Train at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. For information call (301) 619-7717/2892. Oct. 26: CYSS is hosting a trip to King’s Dominion; busses will leave at 12 p.m., registration is $38 per CYSS member. Those interested are encouraged to bring extra money for food, and expect to return to Bldg 949 at 12 a.m. For information call (301) 619-2901.
Enlisted Soldiers and Noncommissioned Officers from across Fort Detrick gathered at the Odom Fitness Center Oct. 3 for the final NCO town hall with Command Sgt. Maj. Stuart, Command Sgt. Maj. of U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command. During the town hall Stuart stressed the importance of professionalism for NCOs. Photos by Sidney Hinds
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
Nov. 1: There will be a Halloween party at the Community Activities Center, Bldg 1529. Free admission for all, with food available for purchase on-location. For information call (301) 619-4079.
Child Development Center Recertifies, p.3
Fort Detrick Soldiers Run for Suicide Prevention, p.6
A Bittersweet Farewell as Ellen Strock Retires, p.10
Commentary:
Halloween Is Close, But Why Are Ghosts and Goblins Wandering About? NICK MINECCI
USAG PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Oct. 31 is less than two weeks away. People of all ages will don costumes, from the simple to the sublime, with children going door-to-door to trick or treat. Traditional activities also include bonfires, costume parties, visiting “haunted houses” and carving jack-o-lanterns. Where did the unofficial holiday of Halloween start? Halloween, a word that is actually a shortening of All Hallows’ Evening, has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain. The festival of Samhain, pronounced “sah-win,” is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture. During this time ancient pagans would take stock of supplies and prepare for winter. The ancient Gaels believed that on Oct. 31, the boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead overlapped, with the dead coming back to life and cause havoc such as sickness or damaging crops. Masks and costumes were worn in an attempt to mimic the evil spirits or appease them. Dressing up
in costumes and begging door-to-door can be traced to the Middle Ages, and includes Christmas wassailing. Trick-or-treating has a strong connection to the late medieval practice of “souling,” a time when the poor would go door-to-door on Hallowmas (Nov. 1), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls Day (Nov. 2). There is no evidence that souling was practiced in America, as it was in Britain or Ireland, and the earliest documented reference to ritual begging on Halloween in North America was in 1911, when a newspaper in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, reported that it was normal for smaller children to take to the streets on Halloween between 6 and 7 p.m., visiting shops and neighbors to be rewarded with nuts and candies for their rhymes and songs. The popularity of trick or treating, an activity for children on or around Halloween in which they proceed from house to house in costumes, asking for treats such as confectionery with the question, “Trick or treat?” become a widespread practice in the 1930s, with the earliest known uses in print of the term “trick or treat” appearing in 1934, with the “trick” part of
Barquist Army Health Clinic Updates Due to lack of pharmacy staffing, beginning Oct. 21, Barquist hours will be reduced to 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with closure at lunch from noon to 1 p.m. in order to accommodate a pharmacy staff traveling from Fort Meade to cover the Barquist Pharmacy. The Barquist Clinic will be closed on the following dates: Oct. 18: 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Nov. 22: 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Dec. 12: 11:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
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The STANDARD is an authorized unofficial newspaper, published every two weeks under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the military and civilians at Fort Detrick. Circulation is 7,000. The STANDARD is a commercial enterprise newspaper printed by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md., 20877, a private firm, in no way connected with the United States Government or Department of Defense. The contents of the STANDARD do not necessarily reflect the official views or endorsement of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Army. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, do not constitute endorse-
“trick or treat” is a threat to play a trick on the homeowner or his property if no treat is given. Trick-or-treating spread from the western United States toward the eastern seaboard during the 1930s, but beginning in 1942 sugar rationing due to World War II caused the activity to decline. It was not until the rationing ended in 1947 the new tradition reemerged. It gained national attention October 1947 when the children’s magazines Jack and Jill and Children’s Activities, mentioned it. This was followed by stories about it on radio programs, The Jack Benny Show and The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet in 1948. Trick-or-treating became firmly established in popular culture by 1952, when Walt Disney portrayed it in the cartoon “Trick or Treat,” and UNICEF first conducted a national campaign for children to raise funds for the charity while trick-or-treating. Trick-or-treating is one of the main traditions of Halloween. It has become socially expected that if one lives in a neighborhood with children, one should purchase treats in preparation for trick-or-treaters. Or one should prepare to suffer a trick...
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Important After Duty Hour Numbers Provost Marshal Office
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ment of DoD. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit characteristic of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is prepared and edited by the Fort Detrick Public Affairs Office, 810 Schreider Street, Fort Detrick, Md. 21702-5000. Editorial Offices are in Bldg. 810, Suite 004, telephone 301-619-2018; e-mail: usarmy.detrick.usag.mbx. pao@mail.mil.
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Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
Command Staff
Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho Jr. Commanding General, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick
Col. Steven P. Middlecamp U.S. Army Garrison commander
Editorial Staff PAO Staff
Child Development Center Recertifies National Accreditation HEATHER MCDOWELL DUONG MRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
The Fort Detrick Child Development Center recertified its accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children Sept. 26. Accreditation distinguishes the CDC from other early childhood programs by demonstrating the center’s commitment to a higher, more stringent standard in teaching and caring for its children. NAEYC accreditation must be renewed every five years. According to CDC director Cathy Box, NAEYC inspectors give the CDC a two-to-three month window when they will conduct an unannounced inspection of the facility as part of the recertification program. Box shared that she was unfazed at the prospect of inspectors dropping by at any given time. “Everyday needs to feel like inspectors are going to conduct a walk-through of the program,” said Box. “If you are running a NAEYC program, you are implementing the high standards set through accreditation daily.” During the Center’s most recent inspection, NAEYC representatives visited classrooms and observed sessions. They assessed all aspects of the learning environment from cleanliness practices such as whether the
Child Development Center students Aleister Heuther (left) and Aaron Payton (right) sort shapes into groups under Teacher Valerie Woodward’s close supervision. kids washed their hands upon arrival, to how teachers engaged with the children. For example, the inspectors observed whether teachers asked open-ended questions that encouraged thought and imagination. “Accreditation helps parents picking a pre-school or other early childhood education program feel confident that they are enrolling their child in a program that meets national quality standards,” said Box. Box noted the Fort Detrick CDC has lower child-teacher ratios, which promotes better See RECERTIFY, continued on page 9
Ava Morales paints a work of art at the Fort Detrick Child Development Center.
Photos by Heather McDowell Duong
USAMRIID Deputy Commander to Receive 2013 Trailblazer Award at Maryland Women’s Conference CAREE VANDER LINDEN USAMRIID PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Col. Andrea M. Stahl, deputy commander of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, is the recipient of the 2013 Trailblazer Award sponsored by the Frederick County Commission for Women. She will be honored at the fifth annual Maryland Women’s Conference on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Frederick, Md. “This is the first time we’ve presented this award to a member of the military,” said Linda Roth, FCCFW president. “In addition to being a successful Army officer, COL Stahl handles the responsibilities of any working woman with a family. She is an inspiration to our young people who may be considering a professional career in the military services.” According to her official biography, Stahl joined the U.S. Army at 22 as a 2nd Lt. Shortly thereafter, she was posted to Germany and spent over two years with the 42nd Medical Company, 30th Medical Group. Upon returning to the U.S., she worked for two years as a medical assistant at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. This was followed by a four-year period during which she pursued and received a Ph.D. in physiology at Yale University as part of an Army scholarship program. After receiving her Ph.D., Stahl worked as a Clinical Research Assistant at Walter Reed for three years and then returned to Germany for four years, where she was the Chief Officer overseeing several areas of the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center clinical laboratory. In 2004, she was posted to USAMRIID, the Army’s medical biodefense laboratory at Fort Detrick, Md. She served there as a Principal Investigator for one year
and then became the Division Chief of the Toxicology Division. In 2009, she became the first female Commander of the U. S. Army Center for Environmental Health Research at Fort Detrick. Upon promotion to Colonel, she became the first female Deputy Commander of USAMRIID, a subordinate laboratory of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command. In this position, Stahl manages the Institute’s operating budget and its workforce of over 800 military, civilian, and contract personnel, directing research that leads to medical solutions to some of the world’s most lethal diseases. Stahl is the recipient of numerous military awards and decorations, to include the Army Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Award. She has received The Surgeon General’s “A” professional proficiency designator, and has been inducted into the Army Medical Department’s Order of Military Medical Merit. She is married to Army Col. Sidney R. Hinds II, M.D., and has three children. “Col. Stahl is an example of how far a woman can go today in achieving a respected, meaningful career while balancing the obligations of family,” said USAMRIID’s Theresa Smith, who nominated COL Stahl for the award. “She truly has been a trailblazer for women officers in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps.” FCCFW is a non-partisan organization that advises Frederick County government on issues affecting women and families, according to Roth. Each year, the group also sponsors the Maryland Women’s Conference and selects one person to be recognized as a “trailblazer” for women in the area. The theme of this year’s conference
Col. Andrea M. Stahl, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases deputy commander is “Jobs, Health, Money: Helping Women Have It All!” USAMRIID’s mission is to protect the warfighter from biological threats and to be prepared to investigate disease outbreaks or threats to public health. Research conducted at USAMRIID leads to medical solutions—vaccines, drugs, diagnostics, and information—that benefit both military
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
personnel and civilians. The Institute plays a key role as the lead military medical research laboratory for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Joint Science and Technology Office for Chemical and Biological Defense. USAMRIID is a subordinate laboratory of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command. Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
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6th MLMC Team Returns from Deployment
Anglers Gather for Fall Fishing Rodeo DANNIELE MCKNIGHT FORT DETRICK FMWR
Six Soldiers from the 6th Medical Logistics Management Center Detachment 12 arrived home Oct. 10 after a 9-month deployment in support of the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center-Southwest Asia mission. Returning soldiers included (pictured with 6th MLMC Commander Col. Anthony R. Nesbitt): Lt. Col. Victor A. Suarez, Maj. Bradley D. Ladd, Capt. Chenyeh Huang, Master Sgt. Dajuan D. Lowery, Sgt. 1st Class Derrick J. Bostic, and Staff Sgt. Justin W. Vanhoy.
Photo courtesy 6th MLMC
R. Nesbitt to welcome the team. USAMRMC Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin B. Stuart and 6th MLMC Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge Rodriguez also represented command leadership who celebrated the return of the service members. 6th MLMC has provided detachment rotations since 2003 in order to provide medical logistics and maintenance support throughout the U.S. Central Command area of operation. During the deployment, Detachment 12 managed medical materiel distributions for SWA theaters.
CAPT. SEUNGHO KANG 6TH MEDICAL LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT CENTER
Six soldiers from 6th Medical Logistics Management Center Detachment 12 arrived home Oct. 10 after a 9-month deployment in support of U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center-Southwest Asia. Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho Jr., commander of USAMRMC and Fort Detrick, joined 6th MLMC Commander Col. Anthony
This year’s annual Fort Detrick Fall Fishing Rodeo was held Oct. 12 at Nallin Pond, and was sponsored by Fort Detrick’s Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Although the weather was rainy and cold, 49 fishing enthusiasts still came out to test their skills, covering all age groups, with the youngest angler only 2 years old. One family was able to catch enough fish for several dinners. Abigail and Hunter McGlaughlin each caught more than 60-inches in total fish for their age. Their father, Charlie McGlaughlin, finished second behind his father-in-law, Bob Harne. Harne is an employee at the FMWR, and he regularly brings both his grandchildren and other family members to the annual event. Other winners were: Tony Ausherman, Shana Meushaw, Andrew Kapac, Tony Bentz, Jared Rodgers and Sam Wilson in the youth categories; and Doug Novak, Charlie McGlaughlin and Bob Harne in the adult category. Prior to the fishing rodeo the pond was stocked with 400 rainbow trout, which will provide many chances for people to enjoy fishing for months to come. There are also 20 silver-tagged fish in the pond, and if caught they should be brought to the Automotive Skills Center to claim a prize. Fishing permits are required on Fort Detrick and can be purchased at the Automotive Skills Center for $5. For more information on fishing programs at Fort Detrick call (301) 619-4079.
Bob Harne, an employee with Fort Detrick Family and Morale, Welfare & Recreation, displays his first place adult winner plaque from the fall fishing rodeo, alongside his grandson, Hunter MacGaughlin.
Photo courtesy Danniele McKnight
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Connect to TRICARE in a Mobile World TRICARE.MIL
We live in an increasingly mobile world, with more and more people possessing technology that allows them to use the Internet on the go. Beneficiaries can access their TRICARE benefits and benefit information on their mobile devices through a variety of mobile applications and mobileoptimized sites. The first mobile tool people should know about is the mobile version of TRICARE.mil, accessible on mobile devices including tablets and smartphones. Simply type www. tricare.mil into a mobile device’s browser to get benefit and contact information. Beneficiaries can download educational materials, view episodes of TRICARE TV, listen to podcasts, read TRICARE news, find contact information for different regions and plans, submit benefit questions and access costs, plans, referrals and other information specific to their plan. Each of the TRICARE regional contractors also has their own mobile site or app. Health Net, the North Region contractor, operates www.hnfs.com/go/mobile, which allows beneficiaries to locate TRICAREauthorized providers and access resources including contact information and information about benefits, claims and eligibil-
ity. The South Region contractor, Humana Military, has a mobile site at m.humanamilitary.com. Humana Military Mobile offers links to a provider locator, a search tool for urgent care centers and eligibility and plan information. In the West Region, UnitedHealth Military & Veterans has a mobile app for mobile devices called “OptumizeMe.” This app encourages healthy lifestyles by letting users challenge other users to health and fitness goals on their smartphones. OptumizeMe lets users track their own progress and post the results to Facebook. Beneficiaries can download OptumizeMe from iTunes or the Google Play store. The TRICARE pharmacy contractor Express Scripts, Inc. offers both a mobile site, www.express-scripts.com/mobile, and an app called Express Rx. These allow beneficiaries to get benefit information, start home delivery of their prescriptions, check order status, order prescription refills and find a nearby network pharmacy. They even have information about drugs and potential side effects. Beneficiaries must register with ESI before using the mobile site by going to www.express-scripts.com/activate. The Defense Manpower Data Center also offers a mobile version of the milConnect website, http://milconnect.dmdc.mil. This
site allows beneficiaries to locate identification card-issuing facilities, find contact information for TRICARE regional contractors and review frequently asked questions. These mobile options make it easier than ever to get the information and access
beneficiaries need to take control of their health care options. If beneficiaries can’t get the information they need from one of these mobile options, they can always call TRICARE or their contractor. Visit www.tricare.mil/callus for a list of contact numbers.
01041069 01041047
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Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
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FortDetrickSoldiersRunforSuicidePrevention SIDNEY HINDS
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR TO THE STANDARD
Fort Detrick service members gathered in front of Bldg. 810 Oct. 4 for a 3-mile run to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Participants arrived in the dark, early morning hours, some with children and pets who ran alongside them. Soldiers ran in formation with their respective organizations from the Blue & Grey ďŹ eld to Nallin pond and back again. A second group of participants walked laps around the ďŹ eld while the run was underway. Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho spoke to runners after the completion of the exercise, thanking them all for their participation. He also spoke at length about the importance of suicide prevention within the armed services, and encouraged service members to
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Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
be vigilant for the warning signs in colleagues who might be feeling depressed or isolated. Caravalho stressed that no one is immune to the desperation that leads many to take their own lives. The run took place in spite of the ongoing furlough that has put a stop to many other organized events on post. Caravalho and Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Stuart explained that the run was important as a camaraderie-strengthening exercise that would aid the members of Fort Detrick in suicide prevention. More than 190 U.S. servicemen and women have committed suicide this year alone, and in 2012 over 300 Soldiers took their own lives. Military guidelines on suicide encourage Soldiers to listen to the problems of others who may be thinking about suicide, and to be ďŹ rm in getting them the help of a trained therapist.
Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho Jr, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command commanding general (left), addresses the more than 190 service members and family members who participated in a run for suicide prevention, Oct. 4. Photo by Sidney Hinds
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS One Woman’s Story of Hope and Survival JENNIFER BENSON USAG PAO
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second-most common cause of cancer-related death in American women. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it is estimated that this year in the United States, some 233,000 women will be diagnosed with the disease, and approximately 40,000 will die of it. If detected early, treatment can save thousands of lives. During October, physicians and public health officials encourage women who are 40 and older (before age 40 for African-Americans) to speak with their physicians about breast cancer, and the benefits and risks of screening. Melanie Skeens, a mother of two from Frederick, Md., has been part of the Fort Detrick Community since 1989. She worked for 14 years with Child, Youth and School Services, and now works as the outreach coordinator for the Environmental Management Office. Melanie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. In this Q-and-A session, Melanie tells about her breast cancer diagnosis and how it changed her life. Q: When were you diagnosed and what went through your mind when you heard the word cancer? A: I was diagnosed on July 10, 2012. I was in shock. It wasn’t until I received the results from the surgery that everything really set in. To hear “you have advanced stage breast cancer that spread to your lymph nodes” is not something anyone ever prepares for or thinks will happen to them. Immediately, I started thinking the worst. “What about my kids, my family, my friends?” “Am I going to make it through this?” But I realized I had a lot to fight for, family and friends that were there for me and counting on me, so I put on my boxing gloves and fought like hell. Q: What do you think kept your spirits up while you were fighting for life? A: I am still fighting, but going through all the surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, pain, etc., it was extremely difficult to remain positive. It was a daily struggle, and some days I felt uncharacteristically defeated. But I realized that there was a plan for me, a plan bigger than any of us can see, and that all of this is just a tiny piece to a giant puzzle. I didn’t walk this journey alone. I was fortunate to have the support of so many people, support from my immediate family, all of my friends and my work family. I was able to remain positive because of their love and support. I will be forever grateful
to everyone who fought this battle with me. The amount of support I received from the Fort Detrick Community was astounding. Everyone at Fort Detrick made sure my spirits were up, and stayed up through this entire process. Simple things such as daily phone calls, cards, and care packages, all the way to donated leave, made all the difference, and I could not have done it without them. I will be forever grateful to everyone here, my son Kyler, my daughter Brandi, my parents and especially my friends Kristen Haga, Michelle Morales, Susan Treadwell, Stacey Sumner and my “Pink Sister” Krista McKenzie McElwain. They put on their boxing gloves and made sure I didn’t fight this battle alone. Their love and support kept me strong. Q: What have you learned through this process? A: As ironic as this sounds, I treat this whole process as a blessing. I was chosen to fight this battle and through it I have learned to embrace life, family and friends. I’ve learned to live life to the fullest, in the present moment, and appreciate all the little things that so many people take for granted. Don’t let life pass you by. Q: What would you like to say to others that may have a friend or family member going through cancer or to someone who just got the diagnosis themselves? A: For those that may know someone going through any kind
of battle, cancer or otherwise: not everyone is willing to talk about their battle, but you can be there for them in so many ways. Reach out to them and be there for them in any and every way possible. No one should have to walk the journey alone. There are so many ways you can reach out and help, to include phone calls, cards, meals, fundraisers, car rides, etc. From the moment someone is diagnosed, it is an overwhelming experience, comprised of lots of appointments and huge financial burdens, and to have the support from those around you makes all the difference in the world. To someone battling cancer, I would say keep your head up and no matter what, stay positive, you’re not alone. There is an incredible “Sisterhood” out there. You may not be ready to talk about it, but reach out to your friends, family, church, doctors, support groups, etc., so many people are willing and ready to fight this fight with you. You don’t have to do it alone. Fifteen months, numerous surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies later this fight is still not over for me, but I am now able to say I am cancerfree. I am fortunate enough to call myself a “Survivor.” Early detection is the key, I cannot stress enough to get on-time, regular mammograms. Q: What’s next for you? A: Living what I learned. Liv-
Melanie Skeens. Photos by Kyler Skeens ing life to the fullest, in the present moment, and appreciating all the little things life has to offer. Something I’m very excited about is, next month, I start training to become a mentor through the Survivors Outreach Support Program through Frederick Memorial Hospital. I want to offer support to women currently going through treatment for breast cancer. I hope to make a difference in someone’s life, and their treatments the way
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
my friends, family and co-workers were through mine. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same. Remember, early detection is imperative and although October is tagged as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, detection, prevention and awareness should remain prevalent all year. Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
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Watching Wizards Do Their Magic Children from the Fort Detrick Roger Mason Basketball Camp attended a preseason game between the Washington Wizards and Miami Heat, Oct. 15, at the Verizon Center in Washington, DC. The young players had the opportunity to sit on the sidelines during the pregame warm-ups, and greet the players as they made their way onto the court before the game. The Wizards beat the defending NBA champion Heat 100-82. Photo by Lanessa Hill
NICBR Executive Steering Committee Visits FDA APRIL FINNEN
FDA PAO AND NICBR PACRS MEMBER
From neuro-implantation to supercomputing to medical countermeasure research, the Food and Drug Administration has a lab for that. Members of the National Interagency Confederation for Biological Research met in September at FDA’s Silver Spring, Md. headquarters, where NICBR leaders toured cutting-edge FDA research facilities, including a new biosafety level 3 lab and vivarium, which are still under construction. Organized by the FDA Office of Counterterrorism and Emerging Threats, the tour introduced attendees to FDA scientists from the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, and Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “FDA joined NICBR as a partner in 2012. We share NICBR’s vision for enhanced interagency collaboration to better protect our nation from biological threats,” said tour host Dr. Luciana Borio, FDA Assistant Commissioner for Counterterrorism Policy and Director of OCET. NICBR comprises nine federal member organizations engaged in biological research associated with Fort Detrick.
Halloween Fun and Safety at Fort Detrick SENITTA CONYERS
INSTALLATION SAFETY MANAGEMENT OFFICE
In a few short weeks, our kids will excitedly put on their costumes, ring doorbells and possibly even perform a funny trick for treats. These are childhood memories and traditions that will be shared for years to come. Please encourage your children, family and friends to follow our installation’s safety rules to promote a fun and safe Halloween! - Ensure children are always supervised. Take advantage of this family time and enjoy the festivities together. - Limit children to the housing area where you reside, or immediate surrounding area. - Review the pre-planned areas of travel for children old enough to go out alone, and ensure all means of communication are known and working. Set a curfew for children trick-or-treating without supervision. - Only visit residences with lighted entryways that indicate they are handing out treats. - Use only sidewalks and crosswalks and never cut across the grass. - Costume masks or head coverings should not block or restrict vision, movement, or trail on the ground. - Apply reflective tape to costumes and props. - Discuss the importance of not entering anyone’s home or eating any candy or treats until safely returning home. The Fort Detrick Provost Marshall Office along with the Public Affairs Office will inform our community of the designated times to trick-or-treat. Let’s continue working together to keep our families and children safe on Fort Detrick. For more information on Halloween and Seasonal Safety visit us at: http://www.detrick. army.mil/safety/fallSafety.cfm.
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Fort Detrick Standard October 18, 2013
Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
USAMRMC Upgrades Procurement System ELLEN CROWN USAMRMC PAO
The U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity Information Management Office is upgrading USAMRMC’s procurement system, which will affect purchase request processing Oct. 11 - 31. After completing a purchase request or modification in the General Fund Enterprise Business System, all USAMRAA customers will have to submit their approved purchase requests manually via email to PR Central, according to USAMRAA procurement analyst Karen Goldstein. USAMRAA customers should send their approved purchase requests to: usarmy. detrick.medcom-usamraa.mbx.prcentral@ mail.mil. Goldstein added that distribution of contract awards and modifications will continue,
with USAMRAA IMO sending contract awards and modifications directly to MEDCOM Resource Management for actions in GFEBS. “GFEBS will not be affected during this upgrade period,” explained Goldstein. “What is affected temporarily is the connection of GFEBS to the Procurement DesktopDefense (PD 2), which is the system that is being upgraded.” The PD 2 will receive a hardware upgrade, which will increase the volume of transactions it can handle and improve its overall efficiency. “The older system could take up to an hour to generate one contract award or modification document,” said Goldstein. “The hardware upgrade will cut that time in half.” She added, “After we test the integrations, this will be a significant improvement for our system. The effort will be well worth it.”
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teacher and child interactions. She added the center understands that children learn best through play and offers a wide variety of activities in and out of the classroom. “It’s amazing what a child can learn playing at a water table and combining two colors or observing butterflies at our butterfly pavilion,” she said. In addition to its NAEYC accreditation, the Fort Detrick CDC is U.S. Department of Defense certified and undergoes annual Army Child, Youth and School inspections. “I’m very proud of our teachers for maintaining the great standards we adhere to and will continue to follow at the center,” said Box. The next NAEYC inspection will be in five years. Since 1985, NAEYC’s national
The Fort Detrick Child Development Center recertified its accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children Sept. 26. NAEYC’s national accreditation system has set professional standards for children from birth to age 8. accreditation system has set professional standards for children from birth to age 8. Its mission is to improve professional practice and working conditions in young children’s education.
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A Bittersweet Farewell as Ellen Strock, Executive Secretary to the Commanding General, Retires
Ellen Strock collaborates with Capt. David Kingery while serving as Executive Secretary to the Commanding General. Strock retired from civilian service Sept. 30. HEATHER MCDOWELL DUONG MRMC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
MRMC bade farewell to Ellen Strock, a valued and long-standing member of its family, who retired from civilian service, and her position as Executive Secretary to the Commanding General, Sept. 30. Of her retirement Strock said, “and so begins the adventure!” Strock began her civil service career at the Naval Air Rework Facility, Cherry Point, N.C., in 1981. She transferred to Fort Ritchie, Md., in 1988, when her husband, Richard Strock, retired from the Marine Corps. At Fort Ritchie, Strock worked for more than a decade fulfilling a number of roles including supporting the Inspector General’s office as well as serving as secretary to the deputy commander. Strock transferred to the 7th Signal Command, Fort Detrick, Md., when Fort Ritchie closed in 1998. That same year she served as secretary to the chief of staff. Recognized for her keen organizational skills, she soon
moved up the ranks and down the hall as the Executive Secretary to the Commanding General, MRMC, where she remained supporting the past five commanding generals. Working in a fast-paced environment, Strock shared that her greatest challenge was staying abreast of the multitude of critical events the command juggles at any given moment. She noted that mastering this task equipped her to respond to requests for her boss’s time and attention. When asked about her favorite part of the job, Strock responded, “the people I had the good fortune to work with each day.” While Strock admits that she will not miss the routine of the workday, she will miss her colleagues. Reminiscing about her time spent at Fort Detrick, Strock added that since she first arrived, the post had grown in size and mission. Strock said, “the development of new technology and research that produced new ways to protect the warfighter, save lives, and heal wounded bodies and minds, and promote health-it is amazing!”
Operation Rising Star Returns to Fort Detrick DANNIELE MCKNIGHT FORT DETRICK FMWR
Operation Rising Star Returns to Fort Detrick By Danniele McKnight Fort Detrick FMWR Fort Detrick’s vocal cream of the crop will belt out tunes at the second round of Operation Rising Star, Oct. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Fort Detrick Community Activities Center. This time, audience members also will have an opportunity to vie for cash in a separate Spirit Award competition during the event. Likened to the military’s version of American Idol, Operation Rising Star is an Army Entertainment vocal competition that showcases the talent of Soldiers and their family members. Each year garrisons around the world host local talent contests and send in their winners’ videos for judging. Two Soldiers and a military spouse will compete at on the 25th. On the night of the finals, organizers will conduct a roll call and register participating units and Family Readiness Groups for the Spirit Award com-
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Sustaining a community of excellence through restoration, environmental stewardship and workforce development
petition. A prize of $300 will be granted to the group displaying the most positive support during the competition. The theme for this year’s finals is “The Beatles.” Singers must select and sing a song written by the Beatles followed by a second song of their choice. The Operation Rising Star winner will be determined by a 50/50 vote between the judges and the audience. As an added bonus, audience members will be able to earn one extra ballot for food purchased during the event, increasing their voting power. At the event’s conclusion organizers will forward a video of the winning performance to the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command. 12 final contestants will be selected to enter the Army’s Operation Rising Star competition at Fort Sam Houston in early December to compete in the finale performance on the Pentagon Channel. Army-wide voting of the performance will determine the lucky winner who will receive an all expenses paid trip to California to record a CD with a professional recording studio.
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