Fort Lee Traveller 04.28.16

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TRADOC applauds Army Logistics University teacher for exceptional, energetic behavior

Fort Lee

SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FORT LEE, VIRGINIA, SINCE 1941

SEE PAGE 4

April 28, 2016 | Vol. 76, No. 17

Riggers Reunion

Vietnam veterans visit home of QM Corps SEE PAGES 12-13 LEADERS DISCUSS EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGES Secretaries of education and Veterans and Defense Affairs among attendees of meeting to discuss challenges of frequently transitioning military children SEE PAGE 7

ECO-FRIENDLY Tree planting, recycle center celebration show Fort Lee community’s determination to protect the environment SEE PAGE 3

SUSTAINMENT’S SPACE JOURNEY QM coin and emblem among objects carried into stratosphere by high-altitude balloon SEE PAGE 5

OFF-DUTY FUN Local attractions offer relaxation, fitness and learning opportunities with little or no out-ofpocket costs SEE PAGE 11


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DPW SPOTLIGHT | PROMOTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Building occupants play role in Lee cooling system operations

Lisa Smith Molinari Contributing Writer

I recently read a base newspaper article in which military officials discussed what troops and their civilian employee counterparts could and couldn’t do during this primary election season, citing the laws restricting partisan activity and giving special instructions on social media. Embarrassed by my ignorance after 22 years as a Navy spouse, I wondered, “What are the applicable laws anyway? Do any of them apply to me? Did I break any rules when I sheepishly

placed that bumper sticker in my minivan window back in 2012?” Clearly, research was in order. Thomas Jefferson led the first effort to prohibit federal employees from influencing the votes of others, but it wasn’t until the Hatch Act was passed in 1939 that such restrictions were made law. Although the act doesn’t specifically apply to military personnel, Department of Defense Directive 1344.10 governs “Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces,” and states active duty military members may not run for office, participate in partisan political campaigns

Fort Lee

Commanding General ........Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams Garrison Commander ....................... Col. Paul K. Brooks Public Affairs Officer............................. Stephen J. Baker Command Information/Managing Editor...Patrick Buffett Senior Writer/Special Assignments ......... T. Anthony Bell Production/News Assistant Editor.................. Amy Perry Family/Community Life Reporter .......... Lesley Maceyak Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.

or speeches, serve as officers in political groups or clubs, march in partisan parades, promote political fundraising events, attend partisan events as representatives of the armed forces, or post large political signs or banners in yards or on cars. Small bumper stickers are apparently OK … whew! Furthermore, the directive prohibits posting, liking or sharing partisan information on social media without an appropriate disclaimer stating “the views expressed are not those of the DOD.” And no matter the venue, if commissioned officers use “contemptuous words” against the president, vice president, secretary of state or other political leaders, they are subject to court martial under 10 USC Section 888.

While none of these legal restrictions apply to military spouses, I still wondered, “Do we have an unwritten moral or ethical duty to limit political expression?” I posted the question on social media and got mixed responses. Several spouses said they chose to keep their political opinions to themselves, but attributed their privacy to good taste rather than any obligation to their active duty counterpart. “We are each entitled to our opinions,” one spouse commented, “but, we are not entitled to act like jerks.” “Decorum and free thought are not mutually exclusive,” another individual responded. One military wife thickened the plot by asking whether ethics gets “a little tricky” when a mili-

The Fort Lee “Traveller” is printed by offset process every Thursday as a civilian enterprise in the interest of personnel at the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee, Va. 23801, by Military Newspapers of Virginia, 114 Charlotte Avenue Suite A, Colonial Heights, Va. 23834, in accordance with Department of the Army Regulations 210-20 and 360-1. This publication receives armed forces material and civilian newspapers are authorized to reprint such material without specific clearance except material specifically designated as copyrighted. Liaison between the printer and the commanding general, Fort Lee, is maintained by the Public Affairs Office, Fort Lee. Circulation: 13,000. This Civilian Enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication. Contents of the “Traveller” are not necessarily the official view of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee. Advertising in this publication including inserts or supplements does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army or Military Newspapers of Virginia. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non merit factor. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from that source until violation is corrected. The “Traveller” is an unofficial publication authorized by AR 360-1, and printed by the Military Newspapers of Virginia, a private firm in no way connected with the U. S. Army Combined Arms Support Command or Fort Lee. The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of Headquarters, U. S. Army Garrison, Fort Lee.

– Directorate of Public Works

tary spouse publicly opposes an operation his or her spouse is currently engaged in such as the U.S. missions in Vietnam and Iraq. Jeremy Hilton, a military spouse, veteran and family advocate added his two cents, referring us to a 2013 piece he wrote for Spousebuzz.com. “While it’s always important to pick your battles,” he noted, “I for one have no intention of taking a bite out of a crap sandwich just because DOD tells me it tastes good.” With the discussion’s ante upped, Navy spouse Lori Volkman – a practicing attorney, founder of Military Spouse JD Network and co-organizer of the military spouse political advocacy training group Homefront SEE POLITICS, PAGE 19

COVER

Should military spouses speak out on politics?

able for occupants and more difficult for an air conditioning system to do its job. During cooling season, thermostat set points are 78 F for occupied spaces and 85 F for unoccupied spaces, in accordance with Fort Lee Policy 10-6, “Energy Conservation Measures.” This also complies with a 2013 memorandum published by the Assistant Secretary of the Army, Installations, Energy and Environment. The use of desk-side fans during summer months is encouraged as long as the electrical circuit utilized has adequate

THE

vidual training student barracks and other older facilities are equipped with units that require a manual changeover from heating to cooling by Directorate of Public Works technicians. This year, that changeover occurred April 18-22. Due to the humid climate in this area, it is important to keep windows closed in buildings where air conditioning is on in order to conserve energy and to keep warm, moist air outdoors. The added humidity from leaving windows open makes work and living spaces more uncomfort-

ON

The seasonal changeover from heating to air conditioning systems at Fort Lee typically occurs when maximum outside air temperatures and associated relative humidity meet Army-specified criteria for four-out-of-five consecutive days and cold temperatures are no longer predicted in long-range forecasts. Temperature-control units in most Fort Lee facilities automatically switch from heating to cooling as needed or on-demand when an occupant changes thermostat settings. However, some of the advanced indi-

capacity. Steps should be taken to ensure cords do not beccome tripping hazards or create a fire safety violation. Other measures to reduce room temperatures in the cooling season include closing window blinds, dimming or shutting off lights, closing doors to unconditioned spaces, and turning off computer monitors and unplugging other electrical equipment when not in use. With appropriate appearance standards in mind, Fort Lee civilian personnel also are advised to wear loose-fitting clothing. Regular rehydration (drinking water) is beneficial as well. Those experiencing excessively warm spaces due to possibly malfunctioning A/C systems can report the problem to the Service Order Desk at (804) 451-1914.

Susan Garling

John Richardson and John O’Neill, both Vietnam War-era veterans who served as parachute riggers, laugh and share stories with old friends and fellow Quartermasters during an April 20 tour of Fort Lee. See story and photos on Pages 12-13.


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Lee leaders focus on recycling during center’s reopening Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

Garrison leaders and members of the Fort Lee community recognized the value of the recycle program here during the Recycling Center grand reopening ceremony April 21. Col. Paul K. Brooks, garrison commander; Melissa Magowan, deputy to the commander; Command Sgt. Maj. Clarence Richardson, garrison CSM; Gregory Williams, director of Public Works; and Jeff Kraus, vice president, Container First Services, the installation’s waste and recycling vender, were among the participants of the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “This event is called a grand reopening because the recycle center

was originally established at this location during our BRAC build in 2008,” said Williams. “Since then, we’ve changed our recycle contractor and today’s event highlights our partnership with (Container First Services). It also draws attention to the senior commander’s and garrison’s emphasis on a stronger recycling program.” The effort is essential to reach Fort Lee’s goal for the Army’s Net Zero Zero waste program. “Net Zero is a holistic strategy for managing existing energy, water and solid waste programs through a reduction in the overall consumption of resources to an effective rate of net zero,” said Williams. “Today’s event highlights an effort for us to be a net zero waste installation by fiscal

2030, which means by that year, we will be sending zero or very little trash to the landfill.” During his remarks, Brooks said he was pleasantly surprised at the turnout for the event. “I think it shows this installation’s commitment to what we are trying to do here,” he said. “This re-opening recognizes the direction we are trying to move toward in the Army. It all fits in with what we are trying to do within the Department of Defense, the Army and here at Fort Lee with respect to reducing waste, water consumption and energy consumption.” Kraus said CFS said is excited to be part of the installation’s recycling program. “We have worked very hard to help the installation do what it

Amy Perry

The Fort Lee garrison leadership team and representatives of the Directorate of Public Works, along with Jeff Kraus from Container First Services, cut the ribbon to the recycle center during the grand reopening ceremony April 21.

needs to do as far as recycling is concerned; eliminating waste as much as we can and doing our part in helping,” he said. “People ask why a waste company wants to get involved in recycling – because it’s the right thing to do.” The grand reopening plays a part in educating the public about the center, said Kraus. He asked the audience if they were aware of the center before the grand reopening, and after most of the attendees

EARTH day

Green thumbs not required to lend a hand Lesley Maceyak

said they did know about it, he noted they are among the minority on the installation. “We did a program at the Commissary a few months ago to increase awareness about the recycling opportunities available here,” he said. “We asked people if they knew where the recycle center was, and overwhelmingly, they had no idea. SEE RECYCLE, PAGE 18

In recognition of the National Earth and Arbor Day observance Friday, W. Howard Myers, mayor of Petersburg; Col. Paul K. Brooks, Fort Lee Garrison commander; and Command Sgt. Maj. Clarence D. Richardson, garrison CSM; plant a tree at William Patton Park, Petersburg. Volunteers from Team Lee also joined local community members for an afternoon cleanup project that included the construction of a rain garden with native plants and picking up trash along the banks of the Appomattox River. In a message to the community printed in April 21 edition of the Fort Lee Traveller, Brooks said “Protecting our environment means leading the way in reducing energy consumption, repurposing, recycling and enhancing the resiliency of the military installation through energy efficiency.” Efforts like the tree planting and garden project on Friday also help the environment by reducing soil erosion and harmful surface water runoff into Virginia’s waterways.


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Unique ALU educator earns TRADOC honors Amy Perry

Recent changes to installation physical training routes require a new traffic protocol at the intersection of A Avenue and 38th Street to ensure the safety of service members. As a result, the traffic light at the intersection will flash red 5-7:30 a.m. All drivers should treat the intersection as a four-way stop and yield to runners. Drivers are reminded to use caution during PT hours throughout the installation. For details, call (804) 765-3122 or 765-3129.

Production/News Assistant Editor

An Army Logistics University staffer is the 2015 Civilian Instructor of the Year for Training and Doctrine Command. Keith Ferguson, specializes in instructional methods, received word of the results while on temporary duty at Fort Benning, Ga., last week. Ferguson has more than 30 years teaching, with 28 them outside the military system at an elementary school, middle school, high school, a police academy and the FBI. When his name was submitted at the local level, Ferguson – who has served in his current position for two years – said he was nervous. “Although I have years and years of experience instructing, once my name was put forward and I knew I was going to be officially observed, terror set in,” he said. “You wouldn’t think that would happen still. It was very intimidating.” After winning the ALU category, Ferguson submitted his package to TRADOC but was sure he wouldn’t be a top choice. “I found out a few weeks ago I was in the top three,” he said. “I was able to ignore it. It was really stressful getting ready to do it. We submitted the package in December. Between that time and April, I was able to ignore it. I thought the video wasn’t good enough, but once someone leaked I was in the top three, it mattered to me. I didn’t want to be No. 3, I wanted to be No. 1.” Still, winning the TRADOC competition surprised him, Ferguson said. “I know I’m different than most Army instructors,” he said. “I know I’m also different from most Army Civilian instructors, because most of them have come through the Army. I am a little outside the box.” Part of his “outside-the-box” teaching style is due to him being “very theatrical and definitely not Army,” Ferguson said. Another part of it has to do with his dedication to the experiential teaching method, which gives students an experience in the classroom to connect their prior experience to what they are going to learn. “In one of the classes, as I introduce the lesson on understanding your target audi-

Flashing Red During PT Hours at A Avenue and 38th Street

Fort Lee Job Fair | May 3 The Noncommissioned Officer Association of America will hold a career expo May 3, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Regimental Club, 2609 C Ave. It is open to all job seekers. A number of local and national employers will be represented at the event. It will kick off with a speaker discussing transition, job search, networking and more. Job Seekers should bring 10 copies of their resume. Participants can pre-register at ncoacareerexpos.org. For details, email jasmine.e.byrne.civ@mail.mil.

ACS Sponsorship Competition Returns Amy Perry

Keith Ferguson, a staff and faculty instructor at the Army Logistics University, attempts to entertain his class while acting like a clown with his Mr. Squeakers prop to introduce them to the design concept of their Systems Approach to Training class.

ence, rather than standing up and saying ‘Hi, I’m Keith Ferguson and here is my experience,’ I start the class with a dog squeaker I call ‘Mr. Squeaky’ and come in as a clown,” he said. “The students are there in their uniforms, and I jump in the doorway and I’m happy and talking in a high voice. I use ‘Mr. Squeaky’ and call the students boys and girls – basically, I act like a clown. They are aghast. “I look for the person with the worst expression on their face – they are just horrified,” Ferguson continued. “I ask them what was wrong with the introduction. They are usually quite pointed and tell me that I don’t respect them, and I shouldn’t do this or that. It makes it memorable and I drive the point home by telling them ‘if I understood my target audience better, than this class would have been better.’ That starts a long conversation about developing courses and understanding target audiences.” Due to his unique style of teaching, Ferguson has been selected as an advisor at TRADOC for the senior training and education manager course and plans to develop it to make it more student-friendly. He is set to PCS there in a few weeks.

The Fort Lee Sponsorship competition will resume July 1. Army Community Service Relocation Readiness Program will award a quarterly trophy to a small unit, agency or organization with 1-100 personnel, a medium unit, agency or organization with 101-200 personnel, and a large unit, agency or organization with 201 or more personnel. The competition is open to any and all agencies and units on-post. Sponsorship allows service members to focus on the mission of the military and permits families and civilians to get acclimated quickly to their new environment. To enter, log on to the My Training Hub at https://myhub.militaryonesource.mil. For details, call (804) 734-6762 or email rrp@leemwr.com.

Community Strengths and Themes Survey Community members are asked to complete the Community Strengths and Themes Assessment bi-annual survey by June 20. It is designed to capture the pulse of community member’s feelings on quality of life, health, safety and satisfaction within Fort Lee, and to ensure there are programs to address readiness and resiliency on the installation. The results will be briefed to the senior commander. The top identified issues will be tasked to the Community Health Promotion Council working groups. To take the electronic survey, visit http://go.usa.gov/cuCb3. A paper format also will be distributed in various areas throughout the installation

Mother’s Day Flowers at Exchange The Army and Air Force Exchange Service will have fresh cut flowers available for Mother’s Day May 4-8. Authorized shoppers can purchase two types of Loving Mom Bouquets – each containing a dozen flowers – for $9.99 each. Additionally, roses are available by the dozen, half-dozen or as singles. For details, call (804) 861-5970.

Kenner NPDTBD Collection Point | April 30 Kenner Army Health Clinic will participate in National Prescription Drug TakeBack Day activities April 30, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Its collection point will be in the front circle of the facility, along 24th Street. All active duty military, reservists, family members, civilian employees, retirees and others can anonymously turn in prescription medication during the drive. For details, call (804) 734-9137.


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Exceptional Leaders Deserve eserve an ble Education Exceptionally Affordable The Quartermaster General’s coin (plastic case above pole) and his organization’s distinctive unit insignia are pictured during an ascent to the Earth’s outer stratosphere aboard a high-altitude balloon test-launched by University of Alabama students Saturday. A GoPro camera captured this photograph at about 35,000-feet prior to lifting to 94,000-feet during the short flight.

QM coin, regimental crest travel aboard balloon on high-altitude test launch Ray Kozakewicz Production Assistant

The Quartermaster coin and insignia have boldly gone where few, if any, Army organizational identifiers have gone before. On Saturday, a travel and photography first was achieved thanks to a University of Alabama student initiative – Project Firefly. During a high-altitude prototype flight from the Tuscaloosa campus, a QM Distinctive Unit Insignia and the QM General’s Coin of Excellence were lifted 94,000-feet into the stratosphere on a balloon platform. A GoPro camera captured photographs during the successful trip. The objects were donated by Paul Morando, director of the U.S. Army QM Museum. He gives credit for the photographic idea to Matt Culver, a museum summer intern, and one of the 12 undergraduate students working on the college project. “Matt kept talking to me about how the balloon would have cameras photographing the vehicle during its flight in April,” said Morando. “As we continued to talk, I thought it would be a great idea if they could use quartermaster symbols in some way and be photographed on the flight.” He said, “The Firefly team approved and figured out a way to attach the regimental crest and Brig. Gen. (Ron) Kirklin’s coin to a pole on the platform.” In a letter outlining its plans to Kirklin,

the team wrote, “The vehicle will ... climb to maximum altitude over Central Alabama, and descend under parachute for landing somewhere near the Alabama/Georgia border. A suite of three cameras on board the vehicle will capture high-resolution photo and video imagery of the coin and insignia against the curvature of the earth.” The letter continued, “Upon the vehicle’s return to earth, the coin and photographs will be returned to Fort Lee and presented as a gift to the Quartermaster Corps from the team and the university.” In describing the successful mission on its website, the Project Firefly team wrote, “The team ... used the balloon as a prototype in preparation for August 2017 when the team will be part of a NASA initiative to document a full solar eclipse across North America from 100,000 feet. They caught these images with a GoPro camera mounted to the balloon on the way up. The balloon floated to about 94,000 feet and landed safely south of Tuscaloosa. Using tracking software they designed, the students were able to meet the balloon as it landed.” Culver told Morando two of the cameras “froze” on the trip but the third captured a number of photographs. Morando called this “a significant achievement since it’s the first military coin to be part of any high-altitude launch.” A Fort Lee presentation date has not been finalized, Morando said.

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FREE CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE

Michael P. Kavanagh

Attorney At Law, Licensed in Virginia • Former Investigating Officer • Retired Judge Advocate • Former Claims Division Chief • Former Prosecutor • Former Sr. Defense Counsel • Former Legal Asst. Attorney CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

MILITARY PRACTICE • Courts-Martial Defense • Reprimand Rebuttals • Admin. Separation Boards • QMP Board File Representation • Discharge Upgrades

CIVILIAN PRACTICE • Criminal Defense • Divorce • Separation Agreements • Custody Disputes • Personal Injury • Injury/Damage Claims Against the Gov’t

DID DAD TAKE HIS MEDICATION TODAY?

Green

Johnson

Dane

Hall

Roberts

Raiford

Employees honored Six earn recognition for volunteerism, charity work Caroline Williams CWF Secretary

This might be the question that keeps you from falling asleep at the end of a long day. Our team includes an RN, licensed nurses, and an attending physician that our families know by name. From medication management to meals and activities, you can trust our experienced caregivers to meet all of Dad’s needs and help keep worries at bay – day and night. Call us at 804-520-0050 to schedule a visit and ask about our Reflections Memory Care Program.

One Air Force and five Army Civilian employees representing various organizations across the installation were recognized for their volunteerism and charity work at Fort Lee and in the local community during a recent award ceremony here. John E. Hall, deputy to the CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, presented the awards Tuesday afternoon in the command suite of the CASCOM headquarters building. All honorees received a certificate of appreciation, a Department of Defense civilian employee pin, a $30 gift card to Boulevard Flowers and a one-of-a-kind Outstanding Civilian Service Award coin in a mahogany commemora-

tive box. The Fort Lee Civilian Welfare Fund is responsible for the bi-annual recognition program and the awards presented. “You are receiving the best type of recognition,” Hall remarked before his presentation. “You were nominated by your peers and judged by senior leaders on post to be worthy of this honor for the wonderful work you do in your communities.” This award combines outstanding civilian service on the job AND in the community. The award recipients and highlights of their exceptional community service are as follows: • Walter Dane, CASCOM – serves as a board member for the Fort Lee Credit Union and a local community school; and

works with organizations that assist the homeless among other endeavors. • Megan Green, Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation – serves as the secretary for her local Parent Teacher Association; volunteers with her son’s Boy Scout Troop; produces marketing and promotional materials for a local swim team; and supports Fort Lee’s ; Holiday Helper program. • Idian Hall, DENTAC – fills a major role in Fort Lee’s Holiday Helper by overseeing the volunteers, year round shopping, organizing toy displays, decorating and displaying the “deployed” tree at both the toy store and the Lee Club. She also supports the Dinwiddie Christmas Parade, and local church and other ongoing community efforts. • Adrienne Johnson,

345th Air Force Training Squadron – organizes the squadron’s Back-to-School Backpack Supply Drive; coordinates volunteers for the annual Reading Night at Beazley Elementary School in Prince George; and volunteers with the Fort Lee Area Spouse’s Club, Girl Scouts Troop 360 and other organizations. • Phil Raiford, TRACLee – runs a nonprofit organization named Graz-n Acres Therapeutic Riding Center in Sedley that provides equine-assisted activities for the most vulnerable (people with physical, mental, emotional and learning disabilities). He also is a frequent volunteer for TRACLEE fundraising activities. • Owen Roberts, Bull Dental Clinic – is active in his church and is known to repair cars for free for the elderly members of his church and dental staff; and serves as a Bible camp volunteer at First Freewill Baptist Church. The Outstanding Civilian Service Awards program honors DOD Civilians, nominated by their peers, who go above and beyond in their work on Fort Lee, and through volunteerism and charitable work within their communities. Six recipients are chosen twice a year, in March and October. The October 2016 award program will kick off with an email invite for submissions from CWF in late July. Primary agency representatives for CWF should forward the information to all DOD Civilians in their respective organizations. Hall will present the awards at the fall Installation Townhall. For info about the awards program, contact agency representatives or send an email to caroline.williams@ deca.mil. Additional CWF information can be found at www.leemwr.com/cwf.


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6WDWH SRVW RIĂ€FLDOV GLVFXVV FKDOOHQJHV IRU PLOLWDU\ NLGV Lesley Maceyak Family/Community Life Reporter

“We are here today because we want to support our military families and to find out what you are doing, what’s working, what’s not, and how we can be helpful,� that was a statement by Virginia Secretary of Education, Anne Holton during a visit with Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs John C. Harvey at Harrison Elementary School in Prince George County Monday. The visit highlighted efforts to support to military families and improve their children’s education. The school hosted the gathering in recognition of Month of the Military Child. Other attendees are Col. Paul K. Brooks, garrison commander; Renee Williams, superintendent, Prince George County School District Dr. Lisa Pennycuff, assistant superintendent, PGCSD; Dr. Patrick Bingham, assis-

tant superintendent, PGCSD; Christopher Scruggs, principal of Harrison Elementary; Kevin Foster, Prince George school board chairman; and Chaundra Taswell, Fort Lee school liaison officer. Harvey started the discussion and said “Technology is a two way street – not only what schools do for our military children, but also what can we do with the resources we have within the state. What can we do to help you all in a productive way, and how can we be better partners with helping educate kids?� More than 60 percent of the children at Harrison have ties to the military, said Scruggs. “The school has a transient population all year long,� he said. “In a month, we can enroll or withdraw over 30 kids. The teachers work hard to assess the children coming to the school and to prepare them for great success.�

Lesley Maceyak

Dr. Patrick Bingham, assistant superintendent, Prince George County, listens to John C. Harvey, Virginia secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, speak to school and post officials on ways to better support military children in the school system.

During the meeting, school officials talked on how they handle incoming children and how to get them back on track. “When military children move to Prince George County Schools, we find it important to evaluate where they are to fill the gaps they may have in their grade level,� said Pennycuff. “It is important to find where they are and to intervene where they struggle the most because we don’t want them to disconnect from learning.�

Another way the school helps military children is by having counselors and teachers readily available to assist with transition. “You can see the impact from moving from one place to another and having the parents gone,� said Scruggs. “It can really put a toll on a child’s life. We try to plan ahead and have people here when they are needed.� SEE VISIT, PAGE 17


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AMERICA’S MILITARY | SPOTLIGHT

63& /(21 328*+ Unit: 508th Transportation Company, 266th Quartermaster Battalion MOS: 88M – motor transport operator Age: 23 Time in service: two years Hometown: Orangeburg, S.C. Family: married with children Pastimes: “Either watching or playing sports. My favorite is basketball.” Describe yourself: “I’m pretty laid back but outgoing at the same time.” Pet peeve: “When someone is deliberately trying to get over on someone else. When I see it, I will typically say something.” Worst fear: “Not coming home; not being able to support my family.” The historical figure or celebrity you would like to meet: “Anyone from the Civil Rights

Era. They showed leadership and drive despite the circumstances. They showed us the right way to lead.” One defining moment: “That would have to be the first time I got in trouble. It was my senior year in high school. I had a job, but it wasn’t enough and I wound up in jail. I eventually got it expunged, but at that time, my life was nearly over. Getting that second chance changed me.” The one person you most admire: “My mother – it was two of us and she raised us alone. I think she did a very good job because we’re both successful. I’ve seen so many parents who gave up on their kids due to certain circumstances. I would see other kids get a little talk when they got in trouble, but I got way more than that. My mother stayed on me to correct my behavior.”

Lessons you like sharing with others: “To know the people you hang out with, and choose them wisely. The group that may be the most fun may not be the best group for you.” Why you joined the Army: “To support my family.” What it means to serve your country: “It means a lot. Many of people don’t get this chance. Getting the opportunity to serve and succeeding at my job – I do think I’m good at what I do – I think it puts me above my peers or above the average.” Why you chose your current

MOS: “Honestly, when I went to the recruiting station, I had three choices, but with the mistake I made, two of them were eliminated because they dealt with money. I like driving because I used to help my uncle deliver and pick up parts. I prefer driving the long distance trucks because I like sitting up high; being the king of the block.” The toughest part of your job as a driver: “The long hours. Even though I do like driving, I do get tired, so I have to prepare myself.” What you would change if you were the Army Chief of Staff: “I would make sure the people who are in the Army are in it for a good reason. I wouldn’t say the right reason because there are multiple reasons people join. I think they’re trust issues for those who join just for the money, etc, because there are not here to fight for the country. When it comes down to it, you might not get full participation from them.” Best thing about the Army:

“The schooling opportunities because it prepares you for life outside the Army.” Worst thing about the Army: “Having to do the work on your own while the team gets the credit. That’s one thing I hate. I’m not looking for credit, but I shouldn’t be the only one doing the work.” The kind of leader you would be: “One, I would push my Soldiers to be their best and make sure they want to be here. Two, I would stay on top of helping them succeed, knowing their personal situations and giving them guidance to further them in life.” Your idea of a bad leader: “One who doesn’t care.” Are you a careerist? “Yes. There is no other option. I do want to do things outside of the Army, but I think it’s best because of the benefits it provides and because I enjoy what I do.” Future plans: “I’m working toward a business degree, and I want to become a warrant officer.” – Compiled by T. Anthony Bell

Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8, 2016 – 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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For more news and photos visit: fortleetraveller.com


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 9

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Photos by Lesley Maceyak

(RIGHT) Carolyn Osinski, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Norfolk Field Office presents a certificate for excellence in service to Kindberg and other Soldiers of the 266th. During the Naturalization ceremony Tuesday. Under the direction of Kindberg, the unit has coordinated and hosted more than 34 naturalization ceremonies, which produced more than 1,000 naturalized citizens at Fort Lee. A change of command for Kindberg is set for May 12. (ABOVE) Over 20 Soldiers raise their right hands and recite the Oath of Allegiance to become United States citizens during a naturalization ceremony Tuesday at the Soldier Support Center. Officer Ramsey Olinger, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Norfolk Field Office, administered the oath to the Soldiers who are in training here. The 266th Quartermaster Battalion, commanded by Lt. Col. Scott Kindberg, hosted the event.

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10 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

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Joe Beaudet

Gordon Graham, portraying a character named Sir Harry, and Heather Eddy (Princess Winnifred) recently rehearse for the upcoming Theater Company at Fort Lee production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” opening May 6, 8 p.m., at the Lee Theater. Loosely based on the children’s fairy tale “Princess and the Pea,” the play is described by Theater Company promoters as a “rollicking spin on the familiar tale of royal courtship” that offers plenty of mirth, mayhem and memorable musical moments. Additional shows are scheduled for May 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m., and May 8, 15 and 22 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $13 for adults and $7 for youth. All performances are open to the public. For reservations and more information, contact the box office at (804) 734-6629.

Traveller invites parents to submit info for annual graduation tribute The submission deadline for the 2016 Fort Lee Traveller high school graduation special edition is close of business June 3. The product will be published in the June 16 issue of the post newspaper. This is the annual insert that features the photos and names of graduating high school seniors affiliated with the Fort Lee community. Affiliations include active or retired military members, government civilians and contractors. A parent who wants their graduate featured must submit a head-and-shoulders photo of the individual (s) with the first and last name of each student and each parent, the parent’s rank (if applicable), the parent’s status and place of duty, the student’s age and high school, and a telephone number to be used (but not published) if additional information is needed. The photo submitted should be copy-

right-free (if taken by a studio or commercial vendor), 5-by-7 inches, 200-dpi or greater, and in JPEG format. Parents who do not have a photo of their graduate can make arrangements with the Public Affairs Office staff to have one taken. Materials can be submitted via email to ArmyFortLee.pao@mail.mil or on the web at www.ftleetraveller.com/graduate. The postal mailing address is Fort Lee Public Affairs Office, 3312 A Ave., Fort Lee, VA 23801. For hand-delivery, the PAO is located in garrison headquarters, building 12010, corner of A Avenue and 34th Street. For questions, call (804) 734-6948 or 734-7147. Organization leaders are encouraged to share this information through normal staff communication channels to ensure all have the chance to participate. – Fort Lee Public Affairs


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 11

OFF

DUTY IN THE COMMUNITY

|

LOCAL DAY TRIPS

TRAILBLAZING IN

RICHMOND

The Virginia State Capitol – built in 1788 – is a living landmark located in Richmond. The capital was designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Lesley Maceyak Family/Community Life Reporter

Richmond has so much to offer when it comes to sightseeing and trailblazing. There are many free parks to enjoy a picnic, take some special photos, get some exercise and enjoy time with the family dog. Take some time to explore these great ideas – even if you’re pinching pennies – to experience the great outdoors for the day. Grab a blanket or tablecloth, pack a lunch, but leave the dog at home for just this one and head to Maymont Park on 1700 Hampton St. Enjoy nature while exploring 100-acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. The historic Victorian mansion is a museum and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can even wander and gaze at the sites like those found in the Italian and Japanese gardens. In the Japanese garden, admire the beautiful koi fish. For a great photo, stop in front of the waterfall on an arched wooden bridge. For the kids, there is a barn with wildlife exhibits. They can hand-feed treats to

the goats and may be able to pet some animals. Maymont Park also has a nature and visitor center to explore for a small fee. To find out more on events and what to do at Maymont, go to https://maymont.org. Close to Maymont is the 287-acre Byrd Park at 600 South Boulevard. Dogs are welcome and you can enjoy sunbathing, tennis, picnics, walks or a game of Frisbee. You also can burn some calories on a pedal boat. For a bit of history in Byrd Park, stop and visit the World War I Carillon off Blanton Avenue. This is a great place for a family picnic and to take the dog to the Barker Field Dog Park. At the Dogwood Dell Amphitheater and Ha’ Penny Stage, you can catch musical shows during special events such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day. There are several other areas of Byrd Park that offer playgrounds and picnic areas and are dog friendly. They are the Chimborazoo dog park at 3200 East Broad St. and Forest Hill Park at 4021 Forest Hill Ave. During the sum-

mer months, the Forest Hill Park hosts Sunday concerts. To discover more of the fun to be had at Byrd Park, visit www.richmondgov.com/parks/parkbyrd. For greater breathtaking views, head to the city at the bottom of 12th Street. Browns Island Park is on the James River and is connected to many pathways for lots of sightseeing opportunities. Parking may be tough on the weekends, but it’s worth it. Take the path to the Canal Walk that follows along the city’s waterway and also has a few accessible restaurants from the path. For some fun on the water, take a 40-minute informative narrative Richmond Canal Cruise. The boat can hold up to 35 passengers and departs on the hour from the Turning Basin, located at the intersection of 14th and Dock streets on Virginia Street. For more information, call (804) 649-2800. Also connected to Browns Island is Belle Isle. Walk across the Manchester Bridge to a place where the ruins of Richmond and Petersburg Railroad Bridge is located. Once on Belle Isle, you may be able to dip your toes in the river, but it is not suitable for swimming. There are places for mountain biking, walking,

Photos by Lesley Maceyak

A 3-D human dart piece by Mark Jenkins of Washington is located at the Richmond Canal Walk.

jogging, sunbathing or rock climbing.. To find out more about the James River park systems, go to www.jamesriverpark.org. If that is not enough excitement for you, head to the state Capitol on 1000 Bank St. A visitor center is available to find out more information in Virginia. Along the landmark, there are plenty of park benches, to relax and take in the view. More info on the hours of guided tours at the capitol, go to www.virginiacapitol.gov.

Rodney Martin

Breathtaking views can be found at the waterfall and arched bridge in the Japanese garden at Maymont Park, Richmond.


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 13

12 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Members of the 383rd Quartermaster Detachment pose for photographs at Fort Lee in May 1965, the same month the unit was activated. Drawn from the 109th QM Co. (Air Drop), also located here, they were deployed to Vietnam a few weeks later. The unit was among the first to use Low-Altitude Parachute-Extraction System that made it easier to drop supplies in remote locations.

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

F

or nearly two years beginning in 1964, members of the Fort Lee-based 109th Quartermaster Company (Air Drop) and later the 383rd QM Detachment in Vietnam grew as close as a unit could get, forming a glue-like bond cultivated from working and playing hard. “This was the greatest bunch of people I’ve ever met,” said former unit member Steven Coe. “We were behind each other, and we were friends with each other.” Despite their strong spirit and camaraderie, unit members never made contact with each other again after completing their tours, leaving a rather large blank space in their collective memories. That was until April 19. On that day at Camp Springs, Md., they graced each other’s presence for the first time since 1966 to kick off a reunion. “It was very emotional,” said 71-year-old

(FAR LEFT) Brig. Gen. Ronald Kirklin, Quartermaster General, chats with members of the 383rd Quartermaster Detachment at the “Rigger Shack” April 20. The rigger veterans, who trained here prior to their tours in Vietnam, visited Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department facilities that included a demonstration on a high-tech parachute simulator. The members closed out their reunion with a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where they honored two members of the unit. (LEFT) Retired Chief Warrant Officer 2 Julien Randolph, the units’ 83-year-old former first sergeant, delights in receiving a coin, certificate and other items from Kirklin.

REWIND

Riggers gather for reunion 50 years after last seeing each other in Vietnam John Richardson, a reunion organizer and one of 13 riggers who made the trip. “… we were up until midnight just sitting around talking about what we’ve been doing the last 50 years.” The reunion participants made their way to Fort Lee the following day. Hosted by Brig. Gen. Ronald Kirklin, the Quartermaster General, they toured the Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department headquarters, tried their hands at a high-tech parachute simulator that did not exist 50 years ago and later walked among the confines of the “rigger shack,’ the facility where today’s riggers learn their trade. A number of the reunion attendees acquired their skills at Fort Lee’s rigger school back in 1964. Some were assigned to the Fort Lee-based 109th following graduation. When the 383rd was activated here in 1965, its ranks

were filled from the former, and the unit deployed to Vietnam the same year. Once there, it took on the mission of preparing and delivering all types of supplies and equipment in support of U.S. forces and its allies, according to the reunion program. “We rigged and dropped almost everything,” it stated, “ – artillery shells, concertina wire and steel stakes, rations, as well as pigs, chickens, ducks and even live cows.” he 109th and 383rd were among the first units to use the low-altitude parachute-extraction system, a delivery method that allowed fixed-wing aircraft to drop goods in areas where landing was not feasible or too small to drop supplies from high altitudes. Operating first out of Qui Nhon, South

T

Vietnam, the 383rd was later relocated to Saigon where most unit members completed their tours. They sometimes worked 20 hours a day, rigging thousands of pounds of supplies and equipment, remembered the 74-year-old Coe. “We had 20 loads (to rig) every day,” recalled the upstate New York native. “We had 3,000 pounds of barrels filled with sand every day and chutes – 40-by-60-feet in diameter – that weighed 175 pounds; we had to do 40 of those a day.” The work itself was complemented by the element of danger and urgency. Although the threat of combat was greater in Qui Nhon than in Saigon, Brancato said the war in general required participants to construct mental states to better cope with its circumstances. “There’s no way of explaining it other than

Photos T. Anthony Bell

being in an adrenaline rush,” said the Detroit native. “If you’ve been in a car accident, and you know the feeling of being on edge, well try living that 24-7. You become used to it. It becomes a part of your life … and you only have so much leeway about things. You can only be so happy about something or sad about something. It was a controlled misery.” The state of mind of most unit members was disrupted when one of them died during an airborne operation, said Richardson. Jerry Basden was killed accidentally after jumping from a plane. Unit members not only felt the bolts of sadness that shot through their hearts because they lost a friend, they sank to the comprehension that mortality favors no one. “He got hung up, got cut loose and the reserve (chute) got wrapped around his main and he landed in the Qui Nhon Bay and drowned,” explained Richardson. “That brought the realization to each one of us that we’re not bul-

letproof. We went over there thinking we’re airborne – nothing can touch us. It was Nov. 5, 1965. From that day on, we all got closer. We talked about Jerry a lot, and we still miss him.” nit members grieved for Basden but had to do so while fulfilling the constant streams of mission requirements, said Brancato. The hardship of loss and work demands brought forth a willingness to indulge in activities of relief. They found it in daily banter and other opportunities to escape the realities. Once they came across a bottle of 190-proof grain alcohol while off duty. “We were in Qui Nhon … there was no beer, no PX,” said Brancato. “We’re trying to figure out how we could dilute it and drink it with something. We tried powdered milk, etc., and we finally got ahold of some grapefruit juice. It had been a while since we had anything to drink. I mean, we couldn’t smoke around it; it was a fire hazard, but that was the mentality of a GI – if it was there, we were

U

going to see if we could drink it. We had a good time …” It was a sweet, memorable moment of young men in the midst of war in a far-off land, said Brancato; one of a myriad of experiences that took place in sometimes hostile environments that drew unit members – black, white, protestant, Jewish, regular Army and draftee – to one another like no experience in the states could afford. It would seem mindboggling to most, given their closeness, why unit members did not seek out one another after their redeployments. “I wish I could answer that,” said Brancato. “When we left country, we were tired. It wasn’t that we were an infantry unit or anything like that, but we had spent a good part of two years together as people. Not many units, whether they were infantry or anything else, had the fortune of having guys together for two years.” Brancato said he did attempt to find some of his buddies four or five years after they returned to the states. That lone episode of his search was met with sadness. “I tried to find two guys, and both of them were dead.” I said ‘I’m not going to do this anymore.’” Richardson, idled from a knee operation last year, decided he would do it, and in fact, made it his mission to track unit members down. “I found 32 of the original 64,” he said. During his search, Richardson became intimate with life’s fleeting nature and how urgent his work was. He found nine unit members had passed away. Three died within the past six months. “We had one, Mike Lawrence, who was coming to this thing but passed 10 days ago,” he said. During the groups’ tour of the rigger shack, the attendees talked with Soldiers in training,

observed the equipment and reminisced. One of the unit members, Roger Oster, said the tour was a reckoning of sorts for him because he never acknowledged his service during the war. “When I came home from Vietnam, I closed that chapter of my life,” he said. “I didn’t speak about it again. Forty-eight years later, I received a call from one of my battle buddies talking about this trip. I decided to go because I really wanted to see this one buddy in particular.” Oster’s buddy was Lawrence. ater during the visit, Kirklin presented the attendees with certificates, coins and a letter sent by Virginia Sen. Mark Warner thanking them for their service. When Coe received his, he stood up, looked the Quartermaster General in the eye and said, “Sir, this is the best day of my life.” The tour was made special by the presence of two Soldiers currently assigned to the 383rd, now a Reserve unit based at Fort Bragg, N.C. In addition, ADFSD, among several CASCOM and garrison elements supporting the event, presented a framed guidon to the attendees fashioned in the style of the original. Richardson said it was all a bit overwhelming. “This has made my year for sure; probably made my decade” he said. “We’re going to try to do this again, and hopefully, we’ll all still be alive.” The other unit members were glad they made the trip. “I was surprised by the number of people who came up and shook our hands and thanked us for our service,” said John O’Neill. “We didn’t get that kind of reception in ‘66 when we returned home. Some of us were told not to wear our uniform home because we’d get spit on. “I had a good time at Fort Lee,” O’Neill continued. “I was surprised by our reception, and gratified by our recognition. All the guys felt it.” “The honor we were shown and received at Fort Lee … it will always be a very beautiful memory that will stay in our hearts and minds for the rest of our lives,” said Dick Hocking. “We are all grateful.” The group closed out its reunion with a trip the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in the nation’s capital.

L

– Susan Garling also contributed.


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 13

12 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Members of the 383rd Quartermaster Detachment pose for photographs at Fort Lee in May 1965, the same month the unit was activated. Drawn from the 109th QM Co. (Air Drop), also located here, they were deployed to Vietnam a few weeks later. The unit was among the first to use Low-Altitude Parachute-Extraction System that made it easier to drop supplies in remote locations.

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

F

or nearly two years beginning in 1964, members of the Fort Lee-based 109th Quartermaster Company (Air Drop) and later the 383rd QM Detachment in Vietnam grew as close as a unit could get, forming a glue-like bond cultivated from working and playing hard. “This was the greatest bunch of people I’ve ever met,” said former unit member Steven Coe. “We were behind each other, and we were friends with each other.” Despite their strong spirit and camaraderie, unit members never made contact with each other again after completing their tours, leaving a rather large blank space in their collective memories. That was until April 19. On that day at Camp Springs, Md., they graced each other’s presence for the first time since 1966 to kick off a reunion. “It was very emotional,” said 71-year-old

(FAR LEFT) Brig. Gen. Ronald Kirklin, Quartermaster General, chats with members of the 383rd Quartermaster Detachment at the “Rigger Shack” April 20. The rigger veterans, who trained here prior to their tours in Vietnam, visited Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department facilities that included a demonstration on a high-tech parachute simulator. The members closed out their reunion with a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where they honored two members of the unit. (LEFT) Retired Chief Warrant Officer 2 Julien Randolph, the units’ 83-year-old former first sergeant, delights in receiving a coin, certificate and other items from Kirklin.

REWIND

Riggers gather for reunion 50 years after last seeing each other in Vietnam John Richardson, a reunion organizer and one of 13 riggers who made the trip. “… we were up until midnight just sitting around talking about what we’ve been doing the last 50 years.” The reunion participants made their way to Fort Lee the following day. Hosted by Brig. Gen. Ronald Kirklin, the Quartermaster General, they toured the Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department headquarters, tried their hands at a high-tech parachute simulator that did not exist 50 years ago and later walked among the confines of the “rigger shack,’ the facility where today’s riggers learn their trade. A number of the reunion attendees acquired their skills at Fort Lee’s rigger school back in 1964. Some were assigned to the Fort Lee-based 109th following graduation. When the 383rd was activated here in 1965, its ranks

were filled from the former, and the unit deployed to Vietnam the same year. Once there, it took on the mission of preparing and delivering all types of supplies and equipment in support of U.S. forces and its allies, according to the reunion program. “We rigged and dropped almost everything,” it stated, “ – artillery shells, concertina wire and steel stakes, rations, as well as pigs, chickens, ducks and even live cows.” he 109th and 383rd were among the first units to use the low-altitude parachute-extraction system, a delivery method that allowed fixed-wing aircraft to drop goods in areas where landing was not feasible or too small to drop supplies from high altitudes. Operating first out of Qui Nhon, South

T

Vietnam, the 383rd was later relocated to Saigon where most unit members completed their tours. They sometimes worked 20 hours a day, rigging thousands of pounds of supplies and equipment, remembered the 74-year-old Coe. “We had 20 loads (to rig) every day,” recalled the upstate New York native. “We had 3,000 pounds of barrels filled with sand every day and chutes – 40-by-60-feet in diameter – that weighed 175 pounds; we had to do 40 of those a day.” The work itself was complemented by the element of danger and urgency. Although the threat of combat was greater in Qui Nhon than in Saigon, Brancato said the war in general required participants to construct mental states to better cope with its circumstances. “There’s no way of explaining it other than

Photos T. Anthony Bell

being in an adrenaline rush,” said the Detroit native. “If you’ve been in a car accident, and you know the feeling of being on edge, well try living that 24-7. You become used to it. It becomes a part of your life … and you only have so much leeway about things. You can only be so happy about something or sad about something. It was a controlled misery.” The state of mind of most unit members was disrupted when one of them died during an airborne operation, said Richardson. Jerry Basden was killed accidentally after jumping from a plane. Unit members not only felt the bolts of sadness that shot through their hearts because they lost a friend, they sank to the comprehension that mortality favors no one. “He got hung up, got cut loose and the reserve (chute) got wrapped around his main and he landed in the Qui Nhon Bay and drowned,” explained Richardson. “That brought the realization to each one of us that we’re not bul-

letproof. We went over there thinking we’re airborne – nothing can touch us. It was Nov. 5, 1965. From that day on, we all got closer. We talked about Jerry a lot, and we still miss him.” nit members grieved for Basden but had to do so while fulfilling the constant streams of mission requirements, said Brancato. The hardship of loss and work demands brought forth a willingness to indulge in activities of relief. They found it in daily banter and other opportunities to escape the realities. Once they came across a bottle of 190-proof grain alcohol while off duty. “We were in Qui Nhon … there was no beer, no PX,” said Brancato. “We’re trying to figure out how we could dilute it and drink it with something. We tried powdered milk, etc., and we finally got ahold of some grapefruit juice. It had been a while since we had anything to drink. I mean, we couldn’t smoke around it; it was a fire hazard, but that was the mentality of a GI – if it was there, we were

U

going to see if we could drink it. We had a good time …” It was a sweet, memorable moment of young men in the midst of war in a far-off land, said Brancato; one of a myriad of experiences that took place in sometimes hostile environments that drew unit members – black, white, protestant, Jewish, regular Army and draftee – to one another like no experience in the states could afford. It would seem mindboggling to most, given their closeness, why unit members did not seek out one another after their redeployments. “I wish I could answer that,” said Brancato. “When we left country, we were tired. It wasn’t that we were an infantry unit or anything like that, but we had spent a good part of two years together as people. Not many units, whether they were infantry or anything else, had the fortune of having guys together for two years.” Brancato said he did attempt to find some of his buddies four or five years after they returned to the states. That lone episode of his search was met with sadness. “I tried to find two guys, and both of them were dead.” I said ‘I’m not going to do this anymore.’” Richardson, idled from a knee operation last year, decided he would do it, and in fact, made it his mission to track unit members down. “I found 32 of the original 64,” he said. During his search, Richardson became intimate with life’s fleeting nature and how urgent his work was. He found nine unit members had passed away. Three died within the past six months. “We had one, Mike Lawrence, who was coming to this thing but passed 10 days ago,” he said. During the groups’ tour of the rigger shack, the attendees talked with Soldiers in training,

observed the equipment and reminisced. One of the unit members, Roger Oster, said the tour was a reckoning of sorts for him because he never acknowledged his service during the war. “When I came home from Vietnam, I closed that chapter of my life,” he said. “I didn’t speak about it again. Forty-eight years later, I received a call from one of my battle buddies talking about this trip. I decided to go because I really wanted to see this one buddy in particular.” Oster’s buddy was Lawrence. ater during the visit, Kirklin presented the attendees with certificates, coins and a letter sent by Virginia Sen. Mark Warner thanking them for their service. When Coe received his, he stood up, looked the Quartermaster General in the eye and said, “Sir, this is the best day of my life.” The tour was made special by the presence of two Soldiers currently assigned to the 383rd, now a Reserve unit based at Fort Bragg, N.C. In addition, ADFSD, among several CASCOM and garrison elements supporting the event, presented a framed guidon to the attendees fashioned in the style of the original. Richardson said it was all a bit overwhelming. “This has made my year for sure; probably made my decade” he said. “We’re going to try to do this again, and hopefully, we’ll all still be alive.” The other unit members were glad they made the trip. “I was surprised by the number of people who came up and shook our hands and thanked us for our service,” said John O’Neill. “We didn’t get that kind of reception in ‘66 when we returned home. Some of us were told not to wear our uniform home because we’d get spit on. “I had a good time at Fort Lee,” O’Neill continued. “I was surprised by our reception, and gratified by our recognition. All the guys felt it.” “The honor we were shown and received at Fort Lee … it will always be a very beautiful memory that will stay in our hearts and minds for the rest of our lives,” said Dick Hocking. “We are all grateful.” The group closed out its reunion with a trip the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in the nation’s capital.

L

– Susan Garling also contributed.


14 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

New ALU president excited, ready for future challenges Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

A long military career was the last thing on Michael Williams’ mind after graduating from West Point in 1983. The former co-captain of the Army Black Knights football team had been selected as AllAmerican with an invitation to the coveted Hula Bowl in Hawaii. Williams – who took charge as president of Army Logistics University in March – was posturing himself for an opportunity to try out for the Oakland Raiders. Back then, NFL teams sent letters to players they were interested in. Williams received one from the Raiders that asked him to keep the team in mind after his commitment to the Army. “I knew my GPA was high enough. If I picked military police, I could choose my duty station,” said Williams. “Fort Ord in California (now closed) is close to Oakland (so that’s where he last served a military officer). I did end up trying out for the Raiders, completed one week of the combine, and got cut. That’s when I became a DA Civilian.” Williams joined the federal service as a GS-5 transportability engineer within the Transportability Engineering Agency in Newport News in 1987. “My goal at that time was to be a GS-13 subject matter expert in my chosen field,” said Williams. “Next thing you know, they are sending me to leadership courses and putting me in charge of teams and branches. Ten years after joining, I was a GS-15. I was fortunate because I was in an engineering discipline with a highgrade structure where if you did well as a GS-5, you were quickly promoted to a GS-7, and so on until GS-13. GS-14 and 15 were a little trickier to get.”

Amy Perry

New Army Logistics University President Michael K. Williams wants to focus on keeping the training material relevant and the methods current. Williams took charge of the university in March.

Working hard is vital to making one’s way up the ladder, said Williams. “I’ve always thought if you tackle the tough problems and you’re successful with them, folks will give you more challenges,” he said. “Work tough problems. Work tough jobs. Never turn down an opportunity to work a project. When folks say ‘well, that’s not my job’ – I think individuals miss some wonderful opportunities to learn more.” When the TEA moved to Scott Air Force Base, Ill., as part of a BRAC relocation, Williams went out to make sure its history and legacy stayed intact through the process. The end result was the Army’s TEA would stick around, and it and the other services would fall under one umbrella called the Joint Distribution Process Analysis Center or TRANSCOM’s Analysis Center.

The Army TEA was the only organization with a senior executive service member in charge, so it was the lead agency and its leader dual-hatted the top role at JDPAC. After helping build the organizational structure, Williams applied for the top billet to become a member of the SES in 2007. Since then, he has served in several senior civilian leadership roles, including some at Headquarters, Department of Army at the Pentagon. But Williams always desired coming back to the area, and said Fort Lee was one of the spots on his “dream sheet” since moving to Illinois. “I’m from this area and wanted either Fort Monroe or Fort Lee,” he said. “I wanted to be around the Home of Logistics, so Fort Lee worked out even better. “I have 37 years of working

with the Department of Defense, and most of it as a civilian,” he said. “To be able to come back and be in charge of training and educating the next generation of logisticians for today’s mission and the next generation – it’s a dream come true. You get to give back. The same investment others made in me, I get to make in the lieutenants, captains, warrant officers, NCOs and civilians around here.” Williams said he loves being a director and relishes the opportunity at ALU. “I get general guidance and intent from the boss and it’s my responsibility to execute,” he said. “You’re not on a staff. Here, I’m the university president who has a campus to run. I like being in a leadership position.” Some of the goals Williams has for the university comes from the guidance of Maj. Gen. Darrell

K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general. In particular, he looks forward to building strong bonds with the local universities and working on a strong credentialing program to ensure the skills officers, warrant officers and NCOs learn here translate to the private sector. Additionally, he is focusing on keeping the material relevant and ensuring training methods are current. “While I was doing my orientation at TRADOC headquarters, one of the challenges we identified was in today’s enterprise resource planning world and change coming around so quickly, how do we build processes in our program of instructor to give us the ability to update them more rapidly so we are teaching out students the most current doctrine that is available?” he questioned. “How do we stay current with how the population is being trained and educated? I think that’s going to be our challenge given the Army is a big organization, and it takes a long time to change things. The pace of change is happening so fast we’ve got to find better ways to go from a requirement to teaching in a classroom. The worst thing we could do is teach stuff that is not current, just because it’s been approved.” Williams said he has faith in the staff, commandants and deans to meet those challenges and said it’s invigorating to be around the enthusiasm found at the university. “It’s the way people walk into the building,” he said. “There’s excitement, urgency, youth and energy. At the Pentagon, there’s parking, then the metro, then security, and then they have to navigate the halls to their office. You can tell some people are just beat down by how long they’ve been doing it. “You see the energy here, and you just want to be part of it,” Williams noted. “You can’t walk in that front door in the morning saying hi to captains, lieutenants, warrant officers and NCOs going back and forth and not be inspired.”


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 15

Army pushes new plan for warrant officers Jennifer Gunn CASCOM Public Affairs

The Pentagon approved a new Army strategy late last month that was nearly a year in the making. The announcement came in a Facebook post by the champion of the cohort the plan addresses. “The Army Warrant Officer 2025 Strategy was approved by the Chief of Staff and Secretary of the Army,” read the March 28 post by Chief Warrant Officer 5 David Williams, Army Staff Senior Warrant Officer. Williams carries a copy of the strategy with him as he visits installations across the Army. On April 15, he introduced the strategy to warrant officers during a professional development session here. Army Warrant Officer 2025 Strategy will change the way the service recruits, trains and grows its warrant officers who account for 3 percent of the Total Force and

21 percent of the officer corps, Williams said. “It will help keep warrant officers from being left behind in matters of leader development, training and education.” This new plan signals that the Army’s reset has come full circle, said Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Randy Johnson, Combined Arms Support Command. During the last 15 years at war, Johnson explained, the Army waived many promotion requirements so as not to penalize those whose commander’s operational needs would not allow their Soldiers to attend required professional military education. “We grew the Army by promoting folks fast and furious,” Williams said. “But this is not how it’s supposed to be. We expanded the zones of consideration; and the biggest mistake of all was letting this ride for several years.” This no longer the case. Competition for promotion will be fierce going forward

as more service members vie for fewer positions. Williams urged those gathered at Guest Auditorium to serve as mentors for junior warrants as well as for those considering a transition, as more than 95 percent of the cohort began military service in the enlisted ranks. “You have to make sure you get the best quality NCOs in the force,” Williams said. “Make sure you explain … what the job is,” and how the roles of warrant officers are evolving. To meet the demands of a downsizing Army, warrant officers may be called on to serve in roles designed for field-grade officers, which is not typical for NCOs. Though they are a subset of the officer corps, warrant officers serve as the Army’s technical experts in over 60 specialties across 17 branches of the service. Williams said it will be impossible for warrant officers to serve as a subject matter expert unless they know their craft inside and out. “No one knows how to do my job better than I do,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jesse Ward, chief of the Advanced Culinary Training Division. It sounds like

bragging but Ward considers this as both the best and sometimes worst thing about being a warrant officer. As a technical expert in his field and a member of the command staff, Ward said he provides candid feedback on operations to ensure the commander’s intent is realistically met in accordance with regulation. He is sought out and valued for his input and gains the trust of the command, and as a result, experiences a great deal of selfworth. The flip side of this, is the extensive effort required to do his job that is not visible to senior leadership. “As such, the fruits of my labor may be visible but the labor is not,” Ward said. This makes it challenging for commanders to understand and evaluate his performance. “We have a responsibility as warrant officers to educate, coach and mentor (officers), and show them what we can bring to the fight,” Williams said. Williams will host a Virtual Town Hall to discuss the Army Warrant Officer 2025 Strategy on his Facebook page 2-3 p.m. May 3 at https://www.fb.com/ ARSTAFSWO/. Like his page to join the conversation.

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Ordnance Training and Heritage Center

This conventional 2-pound grenade was used by Japanese forces during World War II. It is known as a large “Knee Mortar,” Type 89, designated in 1929 without fuze. The Type 89 discharger could fire several different types of grenades, and the range was 700 yards – although it could take the grenade more than 13 seconds to reach its target. This proved an advantage as the operators could shoot, pack up and relocate before their round even hit the target. It was captured by Ordnance and evaluated for potential inclusion into American weapons. Referred to as a “Knee Mortar” by the Allies, this weapon wasn’t really a mortar and had nothing to do with knees, although the Japanese did strap them to their legs. It is part of the diverse collection of artifacts at the Ordnance Training and Heritage Center here that includes numerous foreign pieces.


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 17

Susan Garling Public Affairs Specialist

Fifth grade girls from Richmond’s George Carver Elementary School thought they had seen it all after touring the U.S. Army Women’s Museum here April 15. They were amazed at the stories and intrigued by the unique hands-on displays. Additionally, Command Sgt. Maj. Ruth Potter, 71st Transportation Battalion CSM, was scheduled to meet with them in the classroom. She would discuss women in the Army and the many roles they play, however, that did not happen. Instead, she came into the museum briskly, and said, “I have an idea! Let’s take these girls to my unit and let them see an awards ceremony with the entire battalion.” And with that, this small group of girls were on their way to see something most civilians touring Fort Lee never get to see. Before entering the Army Logistics University, Potter could be heard telling the girls, “This is where Soldiers come to learn. You can be anything you want. Get your education, stay away from the boys and bullies, set the example and have respect for yourself.” As Soldiers walked by, she told them, “This is your future” to which they would respond, “Hooah!” As the girls walked out on the parade field and witnessed the hundreds of Soldiers standing before them in formation, they were in awe. They saw Potter address the troops in a loud and orderly tone. They seemed momentarily taken aback until they realized this female Soldier was telling

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(ABOVE) Command Sgt. Maj. Ruth Potter, 71st Transportation Battalion CSM, explains the Army Logistics University mission to 5th grade students from Richmond’s George Carver Elementary School during a tour April 15. The pupils also toured the Army Women’s Museum prior to their ALU walkthrough. (LEFT) Potter, relentlessly humorous, interacts with the children in the ALU hallway during the tour.

them what to do. These young girls where getting a first-hand look at the military from the inside. Potter then asked, “How many of you are planning to join the military?” More hands went up than not.

Col. Robert Mann, commander of the 71st Trans. Bn., welcomed the girls and shared with them his thoughts on the role education can play in their lives. They were then privy to watching three Soldiers being recognized for their dedication and going above

VISIT | Lee partners with schools Continued from page 7 Brooks said the installation has a great partnership with all of its six school districts, and recognized the efforts at Harrison Elementary. “Harrison has the highest percentage of military children than all other six Fort Lee

school districts,” said Brooks. “We have an outstanding relationship with the schools. They do a great job looking after and taking care of our students. Harrison is a model school on how other schools should handle military children.” After the meeting, teachers from Harrison spoke with Harvey and Holton to give their

and beyond. The girls were taking it all in. Before they knew it, Potter was taking them through the halls of ALU and straight into a classroom. There, it became clear to everyone in attendance she was determined to inspire these young minds and leave them with a powerful message – for some,

perspectives on how military children bring worldly views and diversity to the school. The meeting helped highlight MOMC and recognize the support local schools give to those children, said Taswell. “As the school liaison, my role is to provide assistance with the transition of our military connected school age children into the public school system as they move from state to state,” said Taswell. “I see this type

possibly life-changing. Potter explained to them in her unique, attention-getting manner, “For those of you who don’t want to be a Soldier, you can play just as important a role by serving your country as a civilian employee, supporting the Soldiers.” The girls then had an opportunity to talk briefly with students from foreign lands. The moment was one of fascination and inspiration. What was taking place was of great interest to them, something they had not experienced before. Upon leaving, Potter asked in a loud and orderly tone, “What is your No. 1 priority?” To which they responded in a loud voice, “Education!” “And what’s your second priority?” “Respect for self and others,” the girls replied. On the way out of ALU, Potter led the girls briskly through one office. Military members stopped working momentarily to offer advice such as “Get your education; keep working hard; you can do it.” The teachers on the tour were amazed by Potter’s passion to inspire these girls and her willingness to go out of her way to make a difference in their lives. They were told it’s not every day civilians are allowed to walk the halls of ALU and take part in a military award ceremony. Potter left an indelible mark and showed these young girls firsthand the important roles women play in the military. “Each one of these girls can grow up to be a Soldier, a leader, a teacher, a professional – anything they want to be,” the CSM said.

of engagement with state officials as a great opportunity for me to communicate about what is working in our area of responsibilities, as well as share where the needs are for our local schools that provide educational service to our military connected students. It’s all about how we all work together and collaborate in our efforts to improve our military youths and families’ quality of life.”


18 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

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Contributed Photo

Members of Papa Company, 244th Quartermaster Battalion, pose for pictures near the Catharine Furnace Ruins at the Battle of Chancellorsville battlegrounds, Fredericksburg, during an April 19 professional development trip. Battalion leaders briefed Soldiers on decisions, actions and subsequent consequences of those who led the confederate and union forces. In addition, CASCOM historians Dr. Kenneth Finlayson and Richard Killblane explained the battle in detail. The staff ride was a mentorship opportunity for junior leaders and an opportunity for all participants to examine operational strategies in an effort to make them better logisticians. Soldiers representing other 244th QM Bn. elements also attended the event.

Contributed Photo

First platoon, Tango Company, 266th Quartermaster Battalion, poses for pictures after earning first place in the company drill and ceremony competition April 16. Led by Staff Sgt. Kiara Torres (kneeling, holding the trophy), the Tigers’ platoon captured the regulation and freestyle categories. “All Soldiers committed themselves to the objective and provided the unit with an outstanding display of execution, originality, precision, efficiency, coordination and teamwork,” she said. Members of Fort Lee garrison leadership and the Directorate of Public Works, along with Jeff Kraus from Container First Services, reveal the banner for the recycle center during the grand reopening ceremony April 21.

RECYCLE | Grand reopening

highlights installation’s commitment Continued from page 3 Recycling is all about education and keeping everyone involved.” While there’s room for improvement, Kraus said CFS and the installation have made strides in the past few years. In March 2014, the installation recycled 90 tons

of cardboard and paper. In March 2016, 132 tons of cardboard and 30 tons of paper were recycled. In 2014, Fort Lee recycled 12 tons of metal and in March 2016, it recycled 74 tons. “Those numbers highlight why it’s so important to improve on our recycling numbers and work on our Army

net zero goal,” added Brooks. “It’s a mindset. That’s where the fight is; people are going to embrace it or they’re not. That’s why we require leadership and emphasis on this. If we can’t change people’s minds about recycling – especially the leadership – then we won’t be able to reach our goals.”

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KENNER CONNECTION | INSECT AWARENESS KEY

TO

DISEASE PREVENTION

Health experts offer tips for defending against ticks 1st Lt. Kyle Fortner KAHC Environmental Science and Engineering Office

Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and other illnesses known to be carried by the eightlegged insects. The Fort Lee community is fortunate because the Lone Star Tick is the predominant species in Central Virginia, and they do not carry Lyme Disease, a common tick-borne phenomenon in other parts of the country. Last year, 93 percent of the 280 ticks collected by local health agencies were the Lone Star variety. While Lyme Disease isn’t common among them, they can carry Human Monocytotropic

Ehrlichiosis. Of the ticks tested last year, three percent were carriers of HME. All vector-borne diseases – those transmitted to humans by arthropods – have similar life cycles. The vector (insect) needs a blood meal in order to develop and reproduce. If it feeds on an organism infected with a bloodborne pathogen, it can become a carrier of that disease reservoir. If the vector then feeds on a human for its next meal, the person will likely acquire the pathogen and become ill. Not all organisms are infected, therefore, not all vectors carry diseases. Even if a tick is infected, it takes bacteria several hours to “reactivate” and get into the tick’s saliva. This is good news because it means a tick must be

actively feeding on its victim for several hours or even a couple of days before it can successfully transmit a disease. The best way to prevent tick bites is the DOD insect repellent system, and most service members have it. It’s their uniform. A properly worn uniform with trouser legs tucked inside boots is the best defense against ticks. All uniforms now sold are pre-treated with permethrin, a pesticide that kills ticks on contact. Individuals should also apply a DEET-based insect repellant to any exposed skin as a deterrent. Not getting bitten is the best way to avoid potential infections. Off-duty service members, civilians and their families can use the same principles to tick-proof themselves as well. Always wear long

POLITICS | ‘The voices of military

spouses will ring through, loud and clear’ Continued from Page 2 Rising – blew us away with an inspiring story. Twelve military spouses (including Hilton) took action in December 2013

against deep military benefit cuts in the Bipartisan Budget Act. The grass-roots movement known as #KeepYourPromise went viral, garnering 16 million Twitter views, 100,000 Facebook fans, mainstream media coverage and celebrity support.

pants in wooded or brushy areas and tuck them into hightop boots or long socks. Also choose lightcolored clothing so ticks are easy to spot and brush off. Additionally, there are commercially available permethrin treatment kits individuals can use to turn their favorite outdoor-wear into a tick-resistant shield. Those who choose to wear shorts should apply repellent to all exposed skin, and it’s wise to do a thorough tickcheck before heading indoors and again when all clothes can be removed indoors. Do not forget to check children and pets as well. If you are bit by a tick and it is embedded in the skin, remove it carefully with fine point tweezers. Do not burn, apply petroleum jelly, turn counterclockwise, or utilize any other mythical home remedies because there is no substitute for the proper technique. First, disinfect the surrounding area with an alcohol swab. Next, place tweezers as close to skin as possible and grasp tick firmly. Pull straight up slowly until the

As a result of those 12 military spouses speaking up when their service members couldn’t, legislators repealed the military pension cuts in the Bipartisan Budget Act and #KeepYourPromise has become a legislative watchdog for military families. “The moral of the story is this: If we had not spoken, who would have?” Volkman commented and, ironically, we all took a collective moment of social media silence.

tick either comes out or breaks. The infectious material is further back in the tick’s body, so there is no reason to fret if the head breaks off during removal. Wash the bite area and apply antibacterial ointment to prevent a secondary infection. After removal, keep the tick in a clean plastic bag and store it in a cool dry place like the refrigerator. Ticks can be brought in to the clinic for testing (with the exception of those removed from pets). DA Civilians who are bitten while on duty may have the tick tested at Kenner’s Occupational Health Clinic. Off-duty DA Civilians and contractors must consult their primary care provider. The bottom line is diligence ... protecting yourself against ticks, and not forgetting to do a thorough skin check after any outings that involve wooded or highbrush areas. For more information including tick removal instructional videos, visit www.tickencounter. org or www.cdc.gov/dpdx.

But don’t expect military spouses to be quiet for long. Whether written in polite letters to congressional leaders, blasted in all caps over social media, or communicated in the powerful silence of the voting booths, the voices of military spouses will ring through, loud and clear. Additional Molinari columns are available at www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com.

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20 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE

EVENTS

FORT LEE COMMUNITY

from the Holocaust; Acts of Courage.” For details, call (804) 765-8122.

Field Sanitation Team Training | May 2-6

555th PIA Meeting | May 4

The Kenner Army Health Clinic Environmental Health staff is offering five eight-hour field sanitation team training sessions May 2-6, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., in the multi-purpose room of the Army Logistics University, building 12420. For registration, fill out a DA 4187 and submit to kyle.u.fortner.mil@mail.mil. For details, call (804) 734-9652.

The Jessie J. Mayes Tricities Chapter, 555th Parachute Infantry Association, Inc., will conduct its monthly meeting May 4, 6 p.m., at the Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St. For details, call (804) 861-0945.

Holocaust Observance | May 3 The Fort Lee community is invited to recognize Holocaust Remembrance Day with an observance May 3, 11:30 a.m., at the Lee Theater. The guest speaker will be Holocaust Survivor Alex Keisch, the son of Jewish partisans (freedom fighters) who was born in the waning days of WWII on the site of the Nazi work camp Plaszov in Poland. The theme for the observance is “Learning

Homebuyers Workshop at Lee | May 4 The Fort Lee Housing Services Office will partner with Virginia Housing Development Authority to hold a free Homebuyers Workshop May 4, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the Soldier Support Center, building 3400, 1401 B Ave. Participants will learn about personal finance, qualifying and applying for a loan and more. It is open to active duty military and spouses, reservists, national guardsmen, veterans, DOD Civilians and their spouses. For registration and details, visit www.

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FMWR Trivia Night, Cinco De Mayo Version | May 5 A special Cinco De Mayo Trivia Night with free appetizers is set for May 5, 6:30 p.m., at the Sustainers’ Pub in the lobby area or Army Lodging, 2301 Mahone Ave. For details, call (804) 765-1539.

PWOC Day of Prayer | May 5 The Protestant Women of the Chapel will host a National Day of Prayer program May 5, 9:30 a.m., at Liberty Chapel, Mahone Avenue. The community and public are invited to the free event. A pot-luck style lunch will follow. Participants are welcome to bring a side dish or dessert. For details, email ftleepwoc@gmail.com.

National Day of Prayer Observance at CASCOM | May 5 A Fort Lee observance in recognition

of the 65th Annual National Day of Prayer is set for May 5, 8-8:45 a.m. and noon 12:45 p.m., at the 1st Logistics Memorial in front of the CASCOM building. The programs are opportunities for community members to gather for a dedicated time of prayer. For details, call (804) 734-6102.

Asia-Pacific Event | May 6 The community is invited to an AsianAmerican, Pacific Islander Heritage Month observance set for May 6, 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m., at the Lee Theater. The theme is “An Adventure: Come Travel With Us.” The free event will be hosted by the 59th Ordnance Brigade partnering with the Fort Lee Equal Opportunity Office. The guest speaker is Dr. Cynthia Izuno Macri, a retired Navy captain who served 34 years in the military. The celebration will include a sampling of Asian-Pacific food and live dance performances by advanced individual training Soldiers. For details, call (703) 894-8910.

TXDUWHUO\ XSGDWH Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Randy W. Johnson provides an update on the status of warrant officers within the Combined Arms Support Command to senior leadership during the commanding general’s Quarterly Update in the Sustainment Center of Excellence Café April 18. Other topics discussed during the session were broadening opportunities for all cohorts – officers, warrant officers, NCOs and civilians – 3rd quarter promotion boards and force protection preparedness. Johnson will relinquish responsibility as the CASCOM chief warrant officer during a change of responsibility ceremony May 20, 1 p.m., at the Regimental Club. CW5 Robert P. Harman will replace Johnson. Harman is currently assigned to the Department of Joint, Interagency and Multi-National Operations. U.S. Army Warrant Officer Career College, Fort Rucker, Ala.

Lesley Maceyak

Caiden Williams, Isac Dibler and Marcus Carlson from Child Development Center Yorktown preschool room 102 sing “I’m Special” to a crowd of parents and attendees during a talent show April 22 in the School Age Center. The show honored the Month of the Military Child and thanked parents for supporting their children. Each of the Yorktown CDC classrooms put on a performance with dancing and singing. This was Yorktown’s ninth annual talent show event.

Contributed Photo


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 21

Calendar, continued Motorcycle May-hem | May 6 A Fort Lee Motorcycle May-hem event is scheduled for May 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Motorcycle Safety Facility on the corner of A and Mahone avenues. It will include demonstrations of motorcycle skills, a motorcycle simulator, music, food and more. The event is open to non-riders as well. For details, call (315) 486-2482, (215) 487-2238 or (909) 229-7438.

FMWR Cinco de Mayo Fiesta | May 7 A Cinco de Mayo Fiesta is set for May 7, 8 p.m., at the HideAway, building 15013, 5th St. The celebration will include music, specialty drinks, karaoke, line dancing and giveaways. There is no cover charge. Doors open at 6 p.m. For details, call (804) 765-1539.

Exchange Pet Celebration | May 7 A pet program with contests will be held May 7 beginning at 11 a.m. at the Main Exchange. There will be prizes for best trick, best costume and most exotic. The Fort Lee K-9 Military Working Dog unit and Fort Lee Veterinarian Treatment Facility will do demonstrations and host an information booth. Forgotten Tails will offer pet adoptions.

Pre-registration for the pet contests can be completed at the Exchange customer service counter.

Mother’s Day Brunch | May 8 A Mother’s Day Brunch will be held May 8, 1 p.m., at the Lee Club on the corner of Mahone Avenue and Battle Drive. The event features a Belgian waffle bar, an omelet bar, prime ribs, carved turkey, Cajun steamed shrimp, poached salmon with dill cream cheese, a fresh garden salad bar, gourmet desserts and more. The cost is $24.95 per adult, $12.95 per child (3-10 years old) and children under 2 are free. Reservations are required by April 29. For details, call (804) 734-7547.

exhibit provided by Association for Wild Animal Rehabilitators and Educators. For details, call Priscilla Lewis at (804) 733-1558.

FMWR Cornhole Tournament | May 21 A free Cornhole Tournament is set for every third Saturday of the month until Sept. 17 starting May 21, 6 p.m., at the HideAway, 5th Street. Prizes will be awarded for the 1st and 2nd place teams. Future dates are June 18, July 16, Aug. 20 and Sept. 17. For details, call (804) 765-1539.

SPORTS

AND

FITNESS

Life at Lee Event | May 14

FMWR Get Golf Ready Classes | May 1

All families living on post and the organizations dedicated to their support are invited to the 8th annual “Life at Lee” celebration at the Fort Lee Family Housing Sisisky Welcome Center, May 14, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., at 1510 Sisisky Blvd. The special event will include food, music, games, information booths, prize giveaways and more. It is hosted by Hunt Military Communities. Admission is free for residents and their families. Youth activities will include a bounce house, face painting, basketball, game truck, hula– hoop contest, a petting zoo and a wildlife

The Cardinal Golf Club is offering five weekly golf lessons May 1 - June 12. The sessions are set for Sundays at 1 p.m., or Thursdays at 5 p.m., starting May 4. The cost is $99 for active duty military and family members and $129 for all others. Participants will learn the basic skills needed to play golf. For details, call (804) 734-2899.

Ord. Association Golf Tourney | May 12 The 20th Annual Ordnance Corp Association Golf Tournament will be held May

12, 9 a.m., at the Cardinal Golf Club. On-site registration will begin at 8 a.m. The cost is $70 or $60 for club members. The association supports Ord. Soldiers around the world through sponsorship of numerous award programs and more. For pre-registration and details, call (804) 733-5596.

FMWR Twilight Golf | Ongoing Twilight Golf is offered every day through Oct. 31, after 3:30 p.m., at the Cardinal Golf Club. The cost is $16 for E-1 - E-5 and juniors; $18 for all other military personnel; $21 for authorized patrons and $23 for guests. The golf course member cart fee is $10. The rates are not valid for groups, outings or special events. For details, call (804) 734-2899.

CGC Hump Day Scrambles | May 4 Hump Day Scrambles are set for every Wednesday, May 4 - Sept. 21, 5:30 p.m. The cost is $10 for members; $15 for E-1 - E-5; $17 for E-6 - O-3; $19 for other authorized patrons and $21 for all others. The fee includes golf, a cart, range and prizes. The weekly events are limited to the first 60 registered. Payment is required at registration that begins Thursday morning for the following Wednesday. For details, call (804) 734-2899.

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22 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Calendar, continued OUTSIDE

THE

GATE

Wrestling Event at PGC High School | April 29 A fundraiser for Prince George High School sports featuring several champion wrestlers will be held April 29, 6 p.m., at 7801 Laurel Spring Road. The performers include Road Warrior Animal, Rock ‘N Roll Express, The Barbarian, Billy Gunn, Flex Armstrong and others. For tickets, visit btwtickets.com. They’re also available at Bottom Line Sports Bar and Grill.

Lower Appomattox Riverfest | April 30 A family fun event – Lower Appomattox RiverFest – is set for April 30, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the Appomattox Riverside Park, 24909 Ferndale Road, Petersburg. Admission is free. The event will feature many activities including youth fishing workshops, canoeing and kayaking for first timers, guided hikes, tram rides, music, food trucks and more. Parking with shuttle rides to the park is available at Matoaca Baptist Church, Matoaca United Methodist Church and Matoaca Elementary School. For details, call (804) 861-1666 or visit www.folar-va.org.

Run Through the Grove 5K | April 30 Richard Bland College Department of Athletics will host the inaugural Run Through the Grove 5K April 30, 9:30 a.m., at 8311 Halifax Road (behind Statesman Hall). Runners will follow a course through the college campus. Awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers and for various age groups. The cost is $17 for military and their family members; $12 for students and those under 12 years old and $20 for all others. To register, visit rbcathletics.com. For details, call Danish Saadat at (571) 278-7570 or email dsaadat@rbc.edu.

Community-Wide Yard Sale in Dinwiddie | April 30 A large yard sale to support Relay for Life of Dinwiddie and American Cancer Society is scheduled for April 30, 8 a.m. -

WORD SEARCH | BY SGT. MCGILLICUDDY

1 p.m., at 19606 Carson Road. Spots also are available for $10. The event will include food and more. For details, call (804) 512-3661 or 4694073.

Children’s Author Talk at Chesterfield Library | May 1 Kwame Alexander, a New York Times bestselling children’s author, poet and educator, will speak May 1, 8:30 p.m., at the North Courthouse Road Library, 325 Courthouse Road, North Chesterfield. He is the author of 21 books including “The Crossover,” and “Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band.” Registration is required at the free event. For details, call (804) 751-CCPL or visit library.chesterfield.gov.

Conversation with Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe | April 30 Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest will present “A Conversation with Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe” April 30, 2:15 p.m. and 7 p.m., 1542 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest. Jefferson, portrayed by Bill Barker, and Monroe, portrayed by Dennis Bigelow, will discuss their shared experiences as teacher and protégé, revolutionaries, political colleagues and neighbors. Admission for military members and their families is free. For details, call (434) 525-1806.

Plant Sale at Weston Plantation | May 7

/$1')2506 T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

Find the words and phrases related to landscape features. The answers in the puzzle are forward, backward, vertical, horizontal and diagonal.

Atoll Bay Beach Berm Brook Butte Canal Canyon Cape Channel Fellowship Center Cliff Anniversary | May Coast The Jesus Way Fellowship Center will celebrate its 27th Pastoral Anniversary in Creek Desert May at 660 S. Crater Road, Petersburg. Special services and speakers are sched- Dune uled every Sunday, 4 p.m., and every Estuary Wednesday, 7 p.m. Fjord For details, call (804) 861-5571. Forest The Wonder City Garden Club will hold its 22nd annual plant sale May 7, 8 a.m. noon, at Weston Manor, 400 Weston Lane, Hopewell. A variety of local plants ready for spring planting will be for sale. Prince George master gardeners also will be available for questions. For details, call Nancy Washabaugh at (804) 530-2564.

Glacier Hill Inlet Island Jungle Lake Mound Mountain Ocean Peninsula Plain Plateau Pond Prairie Rainforest Ravine Ridge River Stream Swamp Tundra Valley For this week’s answers, visit www.ftleetraveller.com/ community_life/puzzle/.


www.fortleetraveller.com | April 28, 2016 | Traveller | 23

DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)

BY PHONE:

BY MAIL:

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Call: (804) 526-8656 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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Colonial Heights $735/month Meridian Apartments 1400 Meridian Ave. No Vacancy 2 bedroom, 1.5 baths, rent includes water, trash and sewer.

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Religious Announcements Church of Christ • A Cappella Singing Sunday Bible Schools – 9:30 a.m. Sunday Assembly – 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wendesday Assembly – 7:00 p.m. Nursery • Senior Citizen Group • Youth & Adult Group Activities

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• For active-duty, retired military, their eligible family members and active or retired civil service employees. If you are retired military or retired DOD civilian, include current employer and work phone number on the application. • Only 1 ad per week, 3 lines maximum • Renewals, corrections and cancellations cannot be taken by phone and must be resubmitted • Illegible, too long or otherwise do not conform to instructions will not be published and must be resubmitted for the next issue • Automotive ads must begin with make, model and year • Real estate ads must begin with name of city, neighborhood and must be your primary residence. • Ads will not be accepted via official mailing channels such as guard mail or postage and fees paid indicia. • Free ads cannot be of a commercial nature (i. e., business opportunities, help wanted, etc) and must be personal property of the eligible member. Should not represent a sustained income or business or listed through agents or representatives. • When advertising a home for rent or home for sale, the home must be THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE. (All rental properties are considered paid ads.)

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24 | Traveller | April 28, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian


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