BELVOIR
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Housing selected for pilot project All Belvoir homes to receive third-party inspections beginning in February By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle ll privatized military family housing on Fort Belvoir will be part of an Army pilot project for third-party inspections this year, according to Ms. Carla Coulson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing and Partnerships. This inspection of all
A
privatized family housing is a new requirement for all military services, which collectively includes about 200,000 privatized houses. The proposed inspections, outlined in a December letter to the Fort Belvoir RCI property owners, indicates that RER Solutions, as the independent third-party, will conduct the inspections over the next seven to nine months.
Photo by Paul Lara
Woodlawn Village is expected to be the first village to be inspected by RER See Housing, page 4 Solutions beginning in February, as part of an Army pilot project, which will run through the summer.
Army’s official face mask to be issued this year, other uniform changes coming By Kinsey Kiriakos Army News
T
he official Army-designed, -tested, and -refined face mask – the Combat Cloth Face Covering – will be provided to new Soldiers during the second quarter of FY2021. This was one of the updates provided to the Army Uniform Board during its 152nd meeting. In response to the current pandemic, the Army has largely provided disposable or reusable, solid color masks to Soldiers who have also been permitted to use neck gaiters and other cloth items, such as bandanas and scarves, as face coverings. This past summer, the Army Uniform Board recommended and General James C. McConville, the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, approved issuing CCFCs to Soldiers at Initial Entry Training as part of their clothing bag. At the 152nd AUB, Army officials said that the Defense Logistics Agency will begin issuing two CCFCs to each new Soldier during the second quarter of FY2021. The CCFCs will likely be available for purchase at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service uniform stores later in FY2021. (Note: Existing guidance on face coverings for current Soldiers remains unchanged and can be found in the side-bar story, ‘Existing Face Covering guidance.’) The CCFC was designed, developed, and produced along an expedited timeline. It normally takes 18–24 months for DLA to have the item available for order once the technical description, design, and components are approved and submitted. The CCFC, from inception to issuance, 3
INSCOM CSM
Photo courtesy U.S. Army
The Army’s Combat Cloth Face Covering (CCFC) will be a 2-ply cloth covering made of 57% cotton and 43% nylon. It will have a pliable nose bridge and drawstring with a barrel lock. is slated to take less than one year. The AUB also received updates on the implementation status of four other uniform changes from the 151st AUB, which took place in June 2020. A summary of these follow: • Improved Hot Weather Combat Uniform-Female: Expected to be added to the clothing bag in the fourth quarter of FY2021 and available for purchase in the second quarter FY2022. • Hot Weather Army Combat BootImproved: Expected to transition to DLA Troop Support for new contracting action in the second quarter of FY2021, and available for purchase FY2024. • Black Athletic Socks: DLA estimates the sock will be available in the clothing bag in the second quarter of FY2022. • Army Physical Fitness UniformMaternity: Prototypes are in development.
The Army is working with the Air Force and Marines on their past maternity uniform efforts in order to expedite pattern development. Form, fit, and function evaluations are expected to occur in the third quarter of FY2021. The AUB also discussed additional clothing articles, including items for new and expecting mothers. More information will be provided about these discussions in 2021 after Senior Leader decisions are made.
Existing Face Covering guidance Soldiers are authorized to wear the neck gaiter and other cloth items, such as bandanas and scarves, as face masks to protect the facial area. The cloth item must cover the mouth and nose and extend to the chin or below as well as to the sides of the face. The item must also be secured or fastened to the face in a manner that allows the Soldier to breathe while also preventing disease exposure or contamination. Soldiers will not wear masks that have printed wording, profanity, racist, demeaning or derogatory logos, script or imagery. Soldiers must not attempt to cut up clothing materials such as Army Combat Uniforms to use for face masks as these may have been treated with chemicals. If available, cloth colors should be subdued and conform to the uniform. Leaders should approach this as a force protection issue; they are asked to use their best judgment regarding the cloth color and design of face masks and must also check for the serviceability of face-shielding materials. Soldiers should replace items that become soiled, damaged, or difficult to breathe through.
Check out the hottest deals on brands Virtual summer camp Pool, boats
6 FIND5 DEALS FAST you love straight from your Exchange.
10
Briefs
2
Belvoir Eagle
January 7, 2021
www.belvoireagleonline.com
How will RER Inspections be accomplished? Compiled by Terry Ruggles Managing Editor
A
rmy senior leadership has contracted with RER Solutions, Inc. (RER) to perform comprehensive independent, third party home inspections on 2053 military family housing units on Fort Belvoir. This task is a pilot project of the larger, congressionally mandated, home inspections of all Army military family housing, under the Military Housing Privatization Initiative. The RER team will consist of six inspectors. Each inspector is expected to complete two home inspections per day, on the larger housing, and three home inspections per day, on the smaller housing. Based upon these calculations, the inspection team will complete between 60 and 90 home inspections per week, given accessibility, compatible weather, and no security events on post. At all times, the RER Program Manager will be in contact with the Clark/Michaels Community Managers about scheduling, accessibility and homes that were not available for inspection. Any homes that were not available for inspection at their scheduled time will be added into the schedule at another available time.
Photo by Paul Lara
The RER Program Manager will coordinate with the Residential Community Managers for scheduling the inspections prior to the inspection time and to develop a monthly schedule of homes for
the inspectors. This plan is intended to be fluid and adaptable to circumstances and situations on the ground, and will be augmented and adapted as needed.
For more information on Military Housing Privatization Initiative Tenant Bill of Rights
#military_benefits USAG FORT BELVOIR Installation Management Command
The survey ends Jan. 15
How to Resolve Housing Concerns LEVEL 1 – SUBMIT YOUR WORK ORDER
• Online - www.villagesatbelvoir.com • In-Person - Maintenance Facility Building 1108 • Phone - 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance Request Line: 703-619-3880
Fort Belvoir housing residents, be on the look out for your CEL Tenant Satisfaction Survey! Resident feedback, as part of the housing satisfaction survey, will help inform plans for improvements to housing, resident services, and community amenities to provide a better quality of life for service members and their families. Participation is voluntary and confidential – no personally identifiable information is shared with DoD or privatized housing landlords.
LEVEL 2 – MAKE CONTACT
• Villages at Belvoir Management: 571-318-7546 • Contact Your Chain of Command • Fort Belvoir Housing Office: 703-805-3018/3019
LEVEL 3 – CONTACT GARRISON COMMANDER • Garrison Commander’s Housing Hotline: 571-259-9867 • Submit concerns to the Fort Belvoir Interactive Customer Evaluation ICE System: https://ice.disa.mil
If you didn’t receive a survey, contact CEL via email at ArmyHousingSurvey@celassociates.com to obtain a survey link. When you email CEL you must include your Installation name and complete street address including unit number, if applicable.
Residents with health concerns related to housing conditions, call Fort Belvoir Community Hospital Rapid Hotline: 571-231-2004
Note: CEL is requesting your address information only to look up your home’s Survey ID, this will ensure each household only completes one survey.
Commander .............................................COL Joshua SeGraves Command Sergeant Major .................... CSM Gregory Kleinholz Director of Public Affairs ..........................................Joe Richard Deputy Director Public Affairs.......................... Ganesa Robinson Managing Editor ......................................................Terry Ruggles Content Coordinator ...............................................Eliza Cantrell Reporter/Photographer ................................................. Paul Lara Reporter ..................................................................Dave Fawcett Page Designer ........................................................ Betty Watson The Belvoir Eagle is published in cooperation with the Public Affairs Office, 9820 Flagler Road, Fort Belvoir, VA, 22060. To contact the Belvoir Eagle, email us at usarmy.belvoir.imcom-atlantic.mbx.public-affairs-office@mail.mil. Submission deadline is noon Thursday. The Belvoir Eagle is published each Thursday — by Rappahannock Media LLC, 1372 Old Bridge Road, Suite 101, Woodbridge, VA 22192, a private firm in no way connected with
LEVELS OF ESCALATION
Eagle Volume 29 Issue 50
the Department of the Army — as a civilian enterprise newspaper in the interest of Fort Belvoir, Va. Views and opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the official view of the Department of Defense, Department of the Army, Military District of Washington or Fort Belvoir. Advertisement in this publication, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services by Department of the Army. Everything advertised herein must be made
available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to the race, creed, age, color, sex, or nationality of the purchaser, user, or patron unless precluded by applicable federal, state or local laws. For Classified advertisement information, call 703-771-8831. To advertise in the Eagle contact Rick Bockes at 703-987-0854. Belvoir Eagle is a registered trademark. Circulation: 19,000.
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Eagle
3
Coworking spaces provide spouses with remote work, training opportunities By Devon Suits Army News
F
ort Belvoir will become the first U.S. military installation in the world to provide professional workspace dedicated to military spouses. It’s part of an Army-wide initiative to provide military spouses a comfortable and professional workspace outside their homes, along with a training venue for employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Improving military spouse career and employment opportunities through new programs and partnerships is a top priority for Army senior leaders, said Lt. Col. Keith Wilson, a Soldier for Life Program regional director. Close to 40% of Service members have considered leaving the military to support their spouse’s career, according to a 2019 survey. The number increases to 48% if a spouse holds a graduate or professional degree. The study also saw a growth in military spouses who sought opportunities to increase their household income. Spouses noted that they were interested in more training and mentorship, and remote and flexible work opportunities, along with additional transparency on resources to help start a small business.
Coworking spaces The Army is considering ways to make coworking space locations available at little or no
cost to families, Wilson said. Compared to services offered outside the military, spouses could spend thousands each year to reserve a location. Coworking spaces will also offer training opportunities, and a location for professional networking and community engagement. The Army Quality of Life Task Force set a goal to establish military spouse coworking spaces on eight installations in fiscal year 2021, Wilson said. Efforts are already underway at Fort Belvoir and Fort Campbell, Ky., to make them the first installations to house a coworking space, Wilson added.
Fort Belvoir coworking space The USO of Metropolitan WashingtonBaltimore committed over $200,000 to renovate a section of the USO Warrior and Family Center in support of the Army’s initiative, said Lisa Marie Riggins, Metro’s executive director. The Fort Belvoir coworking space is slated to open in February, barring any setbacks caused by COVID-19 restrictions, Riggins said. The location will feature a vaulted ceiling workspace, with an attached conference room and rooftop terrace, all designed with state-ofthe-art ergonomic furnishings. USO Metro is also making renovations to its sports lounge on the first floor, converting it into a community café workspace, while the USO will reserve the upstairs coworking space for military spouses only.
Courtesy graphic from USO Metro
The USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore committed $200,000 to renovate the USO Warrior and Family Center to support the military spouse coworking space initiative, slated to open in February.
Partnerships Organizations such as USO, the Rosie Network, Instant Teams, and Rowan Tree, in conjunction with the Department of the Army’s chief of partnerships office, are assisting with current efforts, Wilson said. Lessons learned from both Forts Belvoir and Campbell will fuel the larger coworking space initiative, as the Army looks to increase partnership opportunities to support future locations, Wilson added.
RE-BALANCE YOUR
Priorities
Make a plan to do away with highinterest credit card debt by transferring your balance to a Navy Federal Credit Union Credit Card. With a low intro APR and no balance transfer fees, you can pick the right card to help you take back control.*
Learn More at navyfederal.org/balancetransfer Insured by NCUA.
*For all Navy Federal Credit Cards: As of 5/1/2020, rates range from 5.99% APR to 18.00% APR, are based on product type and creditworthiness, and will vary with the market based on the U.S. Prime Rate. ATM cash advance fees: None if performed at a Navy Federal branch or ATM. Otherwise, $0.50 per domestic transaction or $1.00 per foreign transaction. $49 annual fee for Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards. © 2020 Navy Federal NFCU 13931 (12-20)
4
Belvoir Eagle
January 7, 2021
www.belvoireagleonline.com From Housing, page 1
Jason Kallivokas, executive vice president, RER Solutions stated, “We are using state home inspection guidelines, so every inspector, at a minimum, will be a certified or have some higher level of qualification. Inspectors will include licensed engineers or architects. Every one of our inspectors has home inspection experience.” “USAG Fort Belvoir is looking forward to, and fully supports, the upcoming third party inspections of all 2,053 RCI homes located on Fort Belvoir, as mandated by the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act,” said John Moeller, PhD, deputy to the Garrison commander. “We realize conducting these inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic will be inconvenient, but every precaution will be taken to mitigate any risk to residents.” RER’s COVID-19 inspection policy stated it remains committed to prioritizing the health and well-being of the Fort Belvoir community and has implemented a number of protocols to ensure all current and future residents, and valued team members are safe. “We assure you that we will always treat your health and safety with the highest concern,” Kallivokas said. The COVID-19 guidelines include masked and gloved
inspectors, who will wear shoe covers while in the house. If any inspector must remove gloves during the inspection, any surfaces or items touched by bare hands will be cleaned. If possible, residents may stay in another room while the inspection is being completed. “We are aware of the pandemic, and RER is taking all precautions required. We realize we will have some families not comfortable having us in, and we can schedule them later in the year. We know people are home-schooling, but we need to do this so we can help people identify system and neighborhood issues, and come up with a report that helps the Army and the other services move forward,” said Scott Chamberlain, assistant for housing and chief, capital ventures, office of the deputy assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Housing and Partnerships). RER said its inspectors will begin testing its software systems by first inspecting unoccupied houses, as a preparation for on-site inspections. Because Woodlawn Village offers unrestricted access, Kallivokas said its 340 houses will be the first community to be inspected, beginning in February. According to the plan, the RER program manager will be in direct coordination with community managers regarding scheduling
The scope of work to be performed by RER Solutions states that inspections are visual surveys of the property, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and elements that are easily visible and readily accessible. and accessibility; inspections will be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance. The scope of work to be performed by RER Solutions states that inspections are visual surveys of the property, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and elements that are easily visible and readily accessible. “We aren’t invasive, and won’t be moving furniture or dishwashers. We don’t expect to be in the homes for a significant amount of time, and we will provide the least amount of disruption to residents while performing a thorough inspection,” Kallivokas said. The assessments will also include common areas, exteriors, drainage and landscaping. Chamberlain said the final report will include RER’s assessment of the overall physical and operational condition of the property, and identify the specific physical deficiencies and
conditions of major systems and components. He said the report will be flexible enough that the results can be analyzed based on house, community or across the entire installation. “When a team leaves a house, there’s not a report that will be available for the resident, but any life, health or safety issues observed by the inspectors will be reported immediately to Michaels and the Garrison,” Chamberlain said. “This is a strategic pilot and we intend to learn from these inspections how best to proceed with future inspections across the Army.” A key component of the final report by RER Solutions will be to provide lessons learned at Fort Belvoir, and recommendations to be utilized as a guide for the Army and other services. “We feel these inspections are critical to ensuring all residents of Fort Belvoir have a safe and healthy house to live in, as they will help identify systemic issues – if any – that require greater emphasis,” said Moeller. Editor’s Note: Additional information on the inspections will be available in the Belvoir Eagle, Belvoir social media platforms and the housing portal on the Belvoir web page, as it is finalized and becomes available.
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Eagle
5
‘We’re here to take care of those who sacrificed so much’ — Cmdr. Erica Arnold By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle
T
he World Health Organization designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse seems prescient now that we are dealing with the worst pandemic in a century, and nurses are often the first and only point of care in their communities. “Nurses are the backbone of every health system, whether it’s performing essential services or responding to a crisis,” said Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, director-general, World Health Organization. Navy Cmdr. Erica Arnold, a registered nurse
Photo by Paul Lara
Cmdr Erica Arnold
and clinical nurse specialist at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, said she knew from childhood that her calling was caring for others. “I always liked caring for people – just growing up and caring for others, and nursing seemed like a natural path for me,” she said. Through ROTC in Villanova University, she came in her freshman year on a Navy nursing scholarship, and graduated in 2002. Her first duty station was the National Military Medical Center, in Bethesda, just before the Iraq war.
This is the purpose for what I do “I spent four years in Bethesda taking care of wounded warriors before there was a term for wounded warriors. We were just taking care of people based on the patient move requests that we got,” said Arnold. “I think starting my nursing career taking care of those patients is the reason for all of what I do,” she said. “It was a stressful four years as a start. It was craziness. I didn’t think, being in it, how crazy it was until I looked back. I was 22, and those young Marines were my peers. I think knowing that we’re here to take care of the Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines who are out there sacrificing so much. They’d lost so much.” Arnold’s continued education added the skills of clinical nurse specialist, so her care has been elevated now to take care of nurses. “It’s a unique role, because it’s taking on the mentorship of junior nurses,” said Arnold. “So
they say with a CNS you have your spheres of influences. You also help develop on an organizational level, and patient care.”
Pandemic preparations The pandemic has been stressful for all healthcare workers, but Arnold said careful planning at the hospital prepared her teams for what was to come. “I think staff safety was of utmost importance from the beginning,” Arnold stressed. “Because my department is the bulk of inpatient care, we did a lot of work preparing for an influx of patients, cross-training people from other departments who got trained up to take care of inpatients, if needed, and people that normally work in the operating room or outpatient clinics, where demand may be expected to decline during a pandemic.” “Being a Soldier, she makes you feel part of the team,” said 2nd Lt. All McClain, a Medical/ Surgical nurse. “She makes it feel like ‘one team, one fight’, when we are getting ready to take care of patients. She’s very supportive of everything we have to contribute to the floor.” After 18 years of military nursing Arnold said that Fort Belvoir is her first joint command, and it’s been very instructive. “It’s great to have both the Army and Navy together, for the best practices of both worlds. The team here has been a great mix of everybody who cares so much about doing the right thing and asking the right questions.”
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE When you have financial confidence, your best life gets even better. © 2019 Truist Financial Corporation. SunTrust®, the SunTrust logo, and Truist are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All rights reserved.
6
Belvoir Eagle
January 7, 2021
www.belvoireagleonline.com
A transportable robotic system wheels toward its target, a car at Telegraph Gate with a suspected explosive device, during a force protection exercise Dec. 8.
Photos by Paul Lara
Sgt. Dustin Turner aims a percussion actuated neutralizer at an explosive target during force protection exercises at Telegraph Gate, Dec. 8.
Belvoir’s 55th Ordnance EOD ready to neutralize threats across the region By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle
A
fter years of running tabletop exercises, Capt. Rafael Polo, commander, 55th Ordnance, Explosive Ordnance Disposal decided it was time to light the fuse on an exercise involving several units on Fort Belvoir. With assistance from Capt. Tevin Radford, commander, 212th Military Police Detachment and Staff Sgt. David Wooldridge, 55th Ordnance EOD, they devised a scenario involving a random vehicle check, a sketchy driver and a possible explosive device, which would call on the expertise of Fort Belvoir’s EOD to mitigate the risk. For many, it was their interest in the technical, not the adrenaline rush of diffusing an explosive, that attracted them to EOD. “I was originally an infantryman. I noticed that EOD wasn’t getting blown up all the time, like infantry,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steven Sadler, Operations NCO in charge for the 55th. “We always relied on EOD to help us, and they were subject matter experts, and it was obvious that they knew what they were talking about and I wanted to learn what they do.” Sadler found the training very intense, and most of it classified, so he said you can’t take anything home to study. “You have to pick it up very quickly – it’s a
fire hose of information,” Sadler said. Few jobs in the Army require the attention to detail and safety involved in ordnance disposal. Polo said Belvoir’s 55th Ordnance is the only unit of its kind in the continental U.S., which means they are not deployable. Its primary mission is protection of the president of the United States, the vice president, and dignitaries within the National Capital Region. They will even provide a few teams to protect the inauguration ceremonies Jan. 20. “Our focus is the National Capital Region and of course, we also respond regionally to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland and Delaware,” said Polo, adding that his course was decided the moment his recruiter showed him a video. “He showed me a video on explosives, robots and bomb suits, and I have not looked back,” said Polo. “With EOD, there is so much stuff to learn – new ordinance being fabricated by us, NATO nations or adversaries. Learning about fuses and warheads, it’s always changing.” Sadler said that EOD is one of the few Army career fields where everything is put in place to support the team leader. “Everybody is there to support the team leader, because they are the individual that executes. The team leader assumes the risk, and their life is in his/her hands. When the
team leader gets in the suit, it’s the last option, because that’s the highest risk operation,” Sadler said. In 2000, the shift from warfare by nationstates to small terrorist groups led to a change in threats. “The war on terror began to highlight improvised explosive devices, and that’s a constant threat, because our enemies are always coming up with more creative ways to hurt us,” Polo said. “Tools are tools, but it’s really the team leader that makes everything safe. You have to have the right people behind the robots to know what to do. You have to know what to look for; the most important part of any response is the team leader. The equipment can only take you so far.” Both Polo and Sadler said they cannot imagine doing anything else in the Army, and said that EOD is something available to interested recruits across the services. “There’s EOD in the Marine Corps, Air Force and Navy. I was interested in explosives and how ordinance works; very technical stuff. ” said Polo. Sadler said there are numerous specialized units, offering a wide array of opportunities and “you’re not stuck in one job,” adding, with a chuckle, “if you join, you get a free gym membership.”
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Eagle
7
Restructure of warrior transition units ensures continuity of care and readiness By Paul Cook and Terry J. Goodman Regional Health Command-Atlantic
T
he Warrior Transition Brigade-National Capital Region officially became the Soldier Recovery Brigade-National Capital Region in August, during a reflagging ceremony at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center located on Naval Support Activity-Bethesda, Bethesda, Md. This reflagging ceremony marked the final phase of an Army-wide restructure that resulted in the transformation of the Warrior Care and Transition Program to the Army Recovery Care Program and the Warrior Transition Units to Soldier Recovery Units. A critical aspect of this transformation was the transition to a single eligibility criteria for all Soldiers to be assigned to an SRU. These necessary changes in the former WCTP, were the result of the Army’s comprehensive review to recognize ways to improve the care for the wounded, ill and injured through updated policies, procedures, and resources. Brigade Surgeon, Lt. Col. Ryan Larson, said he was impressed with how the staff and cadre have adjusted to the changes that came with the Brigade’s new name. “The Cadre have adjusted well to the new parameters,” he said, adding “the team has maintained an open mind and kept mission focus throughout the change.” Before the reorganization, there were two Warrior Transition Units in the National
Capital Region – Fort Belvoir, Va. and Bethesda. With the restructure, these units consolidated to form the SRB-NCR, commanded by an active duty, central selection list colonel, who has operational and administrative control of the new unit. This ensures that all Soldiers within the NCR have a single, dedicated commander leading the mission. The SRU-Fort Belvoir is similarly commanded by an active duty, central selection list lieutenant colonel. Both of these elements retain a subordinate Soldier Recovery UnitDetachment commanded by a captain. With the new structure, the SRDs are now organized into four platoon tracks; Headquarters , Complex Care, Veteran Track, and Return to Duty Track. Company command teams assign recovering Soldiers to a specific track based on their medical needs. The establishment of these tracks have had a positive effect not only on the cadre, who are responsible for the management of the Soldiers in recovery, but those also on the Soldiers themselves. Prior to the restructure, there was no distinction or separation between recovering Soldiers based on their medical outlook. Now however, they are assigned to either the RTD Platoon or the VT Platoon based on their medical disposition. Staff Sgt. Rolando Buenofeliz, a Veteran Track squad leader, said being in charge of Soldiers who have the same status, or goals,
Photo by Paul Cook
Headquarters Platoon’s Sgt. First Class Robert Pierce, platoon sergeant, in-processes a new Soldier to the Soldier Recovery Brigade. During the in-processing Soldiers are briefed on policies as well as programs available to them.
gives him the expertise to provide his Soldiers with the guidance and support they need. “It allows me to focus more on their needs,” he said. While acclimating with the new structure, the staff had to face another significant challenge – COVID-19, which forced them to develop new measures in performing their duties while keeping everyone safe in the process. The men and women of the SRB-NCR stepped up to the challenge and quickly adapted. In fact, despite the restructure and the pandemic, four of its members from Fort Belvoir received Cadre of Excellence Awards from Regional Health Command Atlantic and were also named the best in the U.S. Army Medical Command, Nov. 19.
Herryford Village mayor submits best holiday decorations By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle
T
he Soldier Recovery Unit is the agency sponsor for Herryford Village, and its mayor, Capt. Kelly Ray, submitted the best holiday decorations to the Belvoir Eagle, Dec. 18. “I met with leadership and they voluntarily gave out three $25 gift cards for the winners of the holiday decoration contest,” said Ray. “It was a nice sight for people to see when they go out for walks.” Ray said the winning families “were surprised, excited and very thankful.” She said it was all done to encourage esprit de corps and community involvement. “Since we can’t have an in-person get-together, we were trying to think of what we could do. It was also recommended to try to do things like ‘yard of the month’ that could be shared safely with the
rest of the community. It was COVID-safe community involvement,” Ray said. The decorations were judged by people from other villages, to keep the mayor neutral. Ray said that Herryford Village is predominately for those at their first duty station, and that its location, with easy access to the shops on 12th street and Belvoir Chapel make it a wonderful, walkable neighborhood. “I think we have the best management team. Nichole Walker has been really great for us. She’s also partnered to do walk-throughs, helping to bridge the gap with community management,” Ray said. “I’d like to thank the garrison and community management office, and we’re making strides with improving communication and different stakeholders.”
Photo by Kelly Ray
8
Belvoir Eagle
January 7, 2021
www.belvoireagleonline.com
Basketball is Belvoir’s Bryonna Williams’ passion By David Fawcett Belvoir Eagle
B
ryonna Williams had never played basketball until she signed up to compete as an eighth grader in a Fort Belvoir CYS youth league. Going to see the WNBA’s Washington Mystics with her family prompted Williams to consider the sport. Now she needed the right place. Fort Belvoir met the need. “It was local and I wanted to start off small and gain some experience,” said Williams, who lives on Fort Belvoir with her father Buryea, an Army Staff Sgt., and her mother Aba, a veterinary tech on base. “When I played for that league, I gained a lot of experience and it motivated me to work harder and continue playing. I also enjoyed competing and training.” Williams used that experience at Fort Belvoir to take advantage of any opportunity to help develop her game. Mount Vernon head girls basketball coach India Thomas noticed immediately how passionate Williams was about basketball when Thomas held clinics at Walt Whitman Middle School. “She expressed interest right away,” Thomas said. Thomas offered Williams a chance to keep playing, but on a higher level. Impressed with Williams’ eagerness, Thomas encouraged Williams to keep working hard if she wanted to play in high school. Williams took that advice to heart. As a
Courtesy photo
Bryonna Williams, Fort Belvoir teenager, is making her mark with Mount Vernon High School’s varsity girls basketball team.
freshman, she led the junior varsity in scoring. Last season, her first on varsity, she came off the bench to offer quality minutes for a young team that won nine games. This year, she will be counted on even more, since the Majors return all their players from a team that finished third in the Gunston District last season. Practice began Dec. 7 as the pandemic pushed back the start of the 2020-21 high school sports calendar for Virginia public high schools. Williams is looking forward to playing again with her teammates, especially with all the uncertainty surrounding the season. “I keep hoping for the best,” Williams said. Williams is grateful she will get the chance to stay in the area and graduate from Mount Vernon. Her time here has helped forge bonds with her teammates. She knows what to expect from Thomas, as well. And vice versa. “She is one of the hardest working kids I’ve ever coached,” Thomas said. “She has a great attitude.” The biggest challenge Williams faces on the court is confidence. She understands what she’s supposed to do, but Williams often struggles to implement it in games. But Thomas sees improvement. “She always wants to put in the work and put in the time to get better,” Thomas said.
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Eagle
A NEW YEAR. A TIMELESS TRADITION. At University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), helping servicemembers and veterans build brighter futures is a proud tradition. 70 years ago, we sent faculty overseas to educate active-duty personnel in postwar Europe. Today, we continue that commitment, offering career-relevant programs, online classes, no-cost digital materials for most courses & more than 170 classroom and service locations worldwide. At UMGC, our dedicated military and veteran advisors are here for you. Visit us online or e-mail baseadvisor@umgc.edu. Classes start January 13.
APPLY BY JANUARY 31 AND WE’LL WAIVE YOUR APPLICATION FEE.
MADE FOR YOU HERE FOR YOU
Call 703-472-0325 or visit UMGC.EDU/BASE
UMGC is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). University of Maryland Global Campus, 9625 Belvoir Road, Barden Education Center, Building 1017, Room 128, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060.
© 2021 University of Maryland Global Campus
9
10
Belvoir Eagle
January 7, 2021
www.belvoireagleonline.com
Belvoir Community Briefs Play Morning Play Mornings, hosted by Army Community Service, allow families to connect virtually and have a playgroup experience through crafts, story time and other activities. Classes are biweekly, 10 a.m., Fridays. This month’s sessions are Jan. 8 and 22, and run through June. Participants will be notified of any changes in schedule. Registration is required by calling 571-231-7028.
Nahee Williams McDonald D.D.S. Kenneth Hrechka D.D.S.
• Laser Dentistry
7841-F Rolling Road Springfield, VA 22153 703-455-1339 www.precious-smiles.com
• Hospital Dentistry • Baby & Infant Frenectomy • Fun and Safe Environment • After Hours Emergency Care
We care for your precious smiles!
• Caring for the Special Needs Patients • Nitrous Oxide, and Oral and IV Sedation • Comprehensive Dentistry and Orthodontics
Insurances Accepted
YOUR COMMUNITY
ONLINE
Family Drive-In Movie: Frozen 2
Fort Belvoir Family Step Challenge
• Visit us today for the latest news, sports and features from Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford, Fauquier and throughout the region. • Sign up for daily headlines – delivered to your inbox!
Download the free app and like us on Facebook
703-318-1386
Challenge yourself and your family to a vigorous walk now-Jan. 31. Choose your own course or opt to use our traditional route options for Fort Belvoir. Participants tracks their daily steps and submit weekly totals every Thursday to be entered into the Friday prize drawing. The first 100 participants will receive a Fort Belvoir Family Step Challenge shirt (sizes are limited). Post a picture of yourself on the MWR Facebook Event page. Rules and eligibility restrictions apply. Learn more at belvoir.armymwr.com or by calling 703806-4430.
MWR presents December’s Family Drive-In Movie: Frozen 2 (PG), Jan. 29, 6 p.m. Parking opens at 5:30 p.m. in the lot behind the MWR Library and the Motorcycle Safety Course (between 16th and 18th Streets). Tickets are $10 and are non-refundable. For tickets, rules and restrictions visit belvoir.armymwr.com.
Virtual Authors at Your Library
PROTECT YOUR GREATEST ASSET Dads 101 ! ! ! ! !
!
!
!
Self-Care & Social Emotional Wellbeing During These Uncertain Times
Foundation and Structural Repair Basement Waterproofing Crawl Space Repair and Encapsulation
+ +
Easy Financing Nationally-backed Transferable Warranties
FREE INSPECTION (703) 215-2322 FOLLOWING
CDC
Let the Army Community Service New Parent Support team show you how to overcome your fears and get comfortable in your paternal role. This virtual class teaches dads and dads-to-be the needed tips and tools to help them become more successful. The class is Jan. 27 with additional classes each month through Oct. 27. Classes are 3-4 p.m. This workshop is open to all active duty, retirees, their families, DoD civilians and Contractors. Participants must register by calling 571231-7028.
During January, February and March, the Fort Belvoir community can join readers from Fort Knox and Fort Jackson to listen to nationally and internationally renowned authors discuss their latest books, the stories behind their narrations, and to ask about their next big projects. This month’s featured author is Jerome Preisler. This New York Times bestselling author will discuss Civil War Commando: William Cushing and the Daring Raid to Sink the Ironclad CSS Albermarle. The session will take place Jan. 28, 6 p.m. Advance registration is required. For details, visit belvoir. armymwr.com or call the MWR Library at 703-805-4244.
SPECIAL OFFER*
SAVE UP TO
$500 OR
NO INTEREST • NO PAYMENT
UNTIL FEBRUARY 2022
* Financing offer subject to credit approval. Interest accrues during the promotional period. All interest is waived if purchase amount is paid before expiration of promotional period. 17.99% interest rate if not paid off within 12 months. Ten percent off any job over $2500 up to a max of $500. Coupon must be presented at time of inspection. Discount and finance offers may not be combined. Offer may not be combined with any other offer. Limit one per customer. Ask inspector for further details. Promo valid through 01/31/2021.
The COVID-19 pandemic has added additional stressors and anxiety for many individuals. Managing remote work and virtual learning environments while trying to maintain a normal home life has become overwhelming for many families and professionals. Join Army Community Service Exceptional Family Member Program, in partnership with Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center, Jan. 14, 10 a.m. to show you how to take steps to manage these changes and the roller coaster of emotions that arise daily. This program is for military connected families only. Registration is required. Call ACS at 571-231-7001 for details.
Have you heard the news? The Officers’ Club is open and ready to serve. If you haven’t experienced their à la carte lunch menu, why not try it out today! The Officers’ Club is open Tue - Fri, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for carry out or curbside pickup only. Simply call 703-780-0930 to place your order. View our menu options at https://belvoir. armymwr.com/programs/oclub
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
Belvoir Eagle
Business Card Classified Corner Advertising CLEANING
AmeriClean
Professional Cleaning Established 1976 Owner Operated
WEEKLY•BI-WEEKLY•ONE TIME JOBS Gift Certificates Available
703-881-1715 jleckie@rocketmail.com
Joyce Leckie
Free Estimates
PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR BUSINESS CARD CORNER • Tonya Fields • tfields@insidenova.com
571.333.1532
11
APARTMENTS
STORAGE
Let Us Be An Essential Part Of Your Quarantine! Call For Our Move In Specials! Germanna Heights Apts 540-423-1090 TDD 711
Hunting Land to Lease
This institution is an equal opportunity provider
View our publications online at InsideNoVa.com
Responsible, trustworthy hunter looking for land to lease. I am a retired U.S. Army veteran, with 20-years of service. I do not hunt deer with dogs, I carry hunter's liability insurance and my own personal insurance that covers me in case of an injury or the event that my personal property becomes damaged or stolen. I am a safe, ethical hunter who obeys all game laws and I will treat the property like it is my own. These are attributes that some other hunters do not offer.
520-234-0858
Employment Advertising Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District is currently accepting applications for a
Full Time Administrative Secretary
to perform administrative, financial and secretarial functions at the five county SWCD office in Culpeper, Virginia. The successful candidate will be a self-starter, will have extensive experience with MS Word and Excel, extensive experience and reporting with QuickBooks, have a high level of competency with web based applications, have effective oral and written communication skills, and have the ability to establish and maintain effective professional working relationships with others. Minimum 1 year experience in a busy office setting is required. District Salary Range 3; benefits included. EOE
Call today to place your ad! 703.771.8831
For more information and access to the Application Process please go to culpeperswcd.org or contact the District Manager at Gregw@culpeperswcd.org
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! ACCOUNTING CLERK
Full-time position with benefits for team-oriented individual with a minimum of two years of experience in accounting/bookkeeping. Individual must have strong organizational and communication skills. Duties include, but not limited to, comparing purchase orders with invoices, maintain vendor files, prepare daily bank deposits, and answer customer-billing questions. Individual will also be responsible for general office duties such as filing, copying, faxing, etc. Proficiency in spreadsheets is required.
Send resume to msmelser@cfcfarmhome.com
Administrative Assistant
New Baltimore Firm has immediate FT position for an admin/ technical assistant. Detail-oriented, ability to multi-task, and MS Word/ Excel knowledge a must; familiarity with QuickBooks, accounting software, and/ or Access a plus. Training will be provided to include land survey plan review. Send resume and salary requirements to MKA via email at:
info@mkassociates.com or fax to 540-428-3560
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! Delivery Driver Class B CDL required
Looking for someone to make local deliveries, as well as help in various departments. Heavy lifting on a daily basis required. Must be able to pass drug screening. Must present a valid driver’s license and a current DMV driving record when applying.
All full-time positions offer health and dental insurance, 401k, vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay. Apply in person or send resume to employment@cfcfarmhome.com
12
Belvoir Eagle
www.belvoireagleonline.com
January 7, 2021
JANUARY
sale + clearance
Limited Quantity!
n oder Sofa M
now only
$398 final price
New Year TRUCKLOAD SALE on Best Sellers!
New Year Savings entire store
70 OFF %
up to
plus
3 YEARS SPECIAL FINANCING WITH $999 MINIMUM PURCHASE. subject to credit approval
D
igner Quee es Panel Bed
n
glamorous design!
now only
5 Piece Bedroom Set Includes Queen Headboard, Footboard, Rails, Dresser & Mirror. NOW ONLY $1398
1845 Carl D. Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401 (540) 786-4800
598
$
final price
7378 Stream Walk Ln Manassas, VA 20109 (571) 379-4130
casual chic 7 Piece Dining Set Includes: dining table & 4 side chairs plus, BONUS: 2 FREE SIDE CHAIRS
14270 Smoketown Rd Woodbridge, VA 22192 (703) 492- 5861
7
$
ce Dinin Pie g Set
now only
598 final price
OFFER EXPIRES 1/11/2021 Mon- Sat: 10am-8pm Sun: 11am-7pm