Peninsula Warrior March 2, 2012 Army Edition

3HQLQVXOD

:DUULRU J O I N T March 2, 2012 Vol. 3, No. 9

B A S E

L A N G L E Y - E U S T I S

P u b l i s h e d i n t h e i n t e re s t o f p e r s o n n e l a t J o i n t B a s e L a n g l e y - E u s t i s

WarriorTransition Unit motivates Soldiers with ‘adaptive sports’ — Page 12

COMMAND CHANGE 53rd Transportation Battalion — Page 3

HISTORY MONTH

Fort Eustis celebrates African-American History — Page 8

$LU )RUFH 1HZV

FREE GAS Langley 1st sergeants surprise junior Airmen — Page 15

•

ARMY EDITION

w w w. p e n i n s u l a w a r r i o r. c o m

2

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

3

UG 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ %DWWDOLRQ ZHOFRPHV QHZ FRPPDQGHU

By Sgt. 1st Class Kelly Jo Bridgwater and Staff Sgt. Ashley Hawkins 7TH SUSTAINMENT BRIGADE AND 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The 53rd Transportation Battalion, 7th Sustainment Brigade conducted a change of command ceremony the morning of Feb. 28 at Fort Eustis’ Anderson Field House to officially welcome Lt. Col. Stephen W. Ledbetter as battalion commander, and to bid a heartfelt farewell to outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Corey A. New. “I am humbled and honored at the opportunity to command,” said Ledbetter.

“And I will do my best to care for every Soldier, civilian and family member within this battalion each and every day.”

Colonel Steve M. Cherry, commander, 7th Sust. Bde. (Provisional), and ceremony reviewing officer, addressed the crowd of Soldiers, leaders, distinguished guests, and family members sharing the numerous successes of the battalion to include their recent deployment to Joint Base Balad, Iraq, in support of Operation New Dawn where they coordinated and executed the redeployment and reposture of forces out of Iraq.

“Under Lt. Col. New’s leadership during the past three years, his battalion’s accomplishments are almost too numerous to name,” said Cherry. “You have made

significant contributions to your battalion and this brigade.”

He offered best wishes to him in the future, and then turned his direction to Ledbetter in the front row.

“Lt Col. Ledbetter, you have some big shoes to fill, but I’m convinced that based on your resume and reputation of doing extremely well, that you will make a tremendous impact on your new team. You are inheriting a great battalion with an outstanding reputation,” said Cherry.

Ledbetter, a native of Hendersonville, Tenn., received his commission into the Transportation Corps in December of 1993.

Most recently he served as the Chief of Operations, 528th Sust. Bde. (Special Operations) (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C. New was recently selected for the grade of colonel, and accepted into the command and staff college. He said it has been an honor to lead and serve with all Soldiers and Airmen at Fort Eustis and in Iraq.

“What we accomplished as part of a larger team was historic, and set the example for all future conflicts when it comes to responsibly leaving a theater of operations,” said New. Anative of Rumford, Maine, New attended the Infantry Officer Basic Course in 1991 upon his commissioning, and later transferred to the Transportation Corps in 1993.

Photos by Sergeant 1st Class Kelly Jo Bridgwater

U.S. Army Col. Stephen Cherry IV (right), 7th Sustainment Brigade Commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Stephen W. Ledbetter, incoming commander of the 53rd Transportation Battalion, during a change of command ceremony at Anderson Field House, Fort Eustis, Feb. 28.

“I am humbled and honored at the opportunity to command.

And I will do my best to care for every Soldier, civilian and family member within this battalion each and every day.”

— Lt. Col. Stephen W. Ledbetter 53rd Transportation Battalion new commander

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Stephen W. Ledbetter, 53rd Transportation Battalion commander, renders a salute to his battalion during the change of command ceremony. Ledbetter’s previous position was chief of operations at Fort Bragg, N.C.

Fort Eustis now has two Installation Status hotline numbers up and running: 878-6181 and 878-6182

4

www.peninsulawarrior.com

BUFFET CITY

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

MONGOLIAN GRILL & SEAFOOD BUFFET

OVER 250 ITEMS DAILY!

LUNCH BUFFET (11:00AM-3:30PM) $

5.99

10% Active Military Discount w/ID

14346 Warwick Blvd #440 • Newport News, VA 23602

Banquet Room Available!

The Virginian-Pilot READER'S CHOICE AWARD

757-877-8883 • www.buffetcityofva.com Hours: Monday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm 2011

VOTED BEST ASIAN BUFFET

Courtesy photo

U.S. Army Sgt. Nathaniel Lesperance (right), 221st Military Police Detachment policeman, employs a TASER on Staff Sgt. Kyle Daun (left-center), 221st MPD policeman, during voluntary exposure training at Fort Eustis Feb. 17. The 221st MPD and 733rd Security Forces Squadron conductedTASER training in order to certify their personnel on the X26TASER.

JBLE law enforcement certiďŹ ed for TASER use 221ST MILITARY POLICE DETACHMENT

634 J. Clyde Morris Blvd.

Newport News, Virginia 23601

(757) 595-9721

# !

#! !

%! #

# ! !!

( % ! # ( % ' & !

# #(

)) $$ & ! # '''

( % ! %

#

# & ! % ! &

The most important decision a Military Police Soldier, Security Forces Airman or civilian police ofďŹ cer can make is whether or not to engage deadly force upon a person. The 221st Military Police Detachment and 733rd Security Forces Squadron conducted TASER training Feb. 17-23, in order to certify their personnel on the X26 TASER. The 733rd SFS is in the process of ďŹ elding this equipment to be used by personnel performing law enforcement on Joint Base Langley-Eustis. With the new, remarkable advances in technology, the MPs and SFS can now serve and protect the JBLE communities with less-than-lethal means. “We now have the technology to stop that individual who is combat trained, mentally deranged, or under the inuence of drugs and alcohol,â€? said U.S. Army Capt. Samantha Hoxha, 221st MPD commander, commenting on the importance of the use of this new technology.

Hoxha, Mark Webb, 733rd SFS detective, and U.S. Army Sgt. Nathan Lesperance, 221st MPD policeman, enlightened their

The X26 TASER, Electro-Muscular Disruptor is a commercial device used to ďŹ re two barbed projectiles into a target with the purpose of delivering an electrical shock to subdue the target without harm to the target or the operator. students on the details and operations of the TASER. Training consisted of classroom instruction, practical-application exercises and voluntary exposure where volunteers were afforded the opportunity to experience the effects of the TASER ďŹ rst hand.

The X26 TASER, Electro-Muscular Disruptor is a commercial device used to ďŹ re two barbed projectiles into a target with the purpose of delivering an electrical shock to subdue the target without harm to the target or the operator. The EMD weapons stun and override the central nervous system causing uncontrollable contractions of the muscle tissue.

Check us out online at www.peninsulawarrior.com

MARCH 2, 2012

$LU )RUFH ¿VFDO EXGJHW LQYHVWV LQ VSDFH FDSDELOLWLHV

By Tech. Sgt. Jess D. Harvey AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AGENCY

Investment in space programs was a priority in this year’s Air Force budget, according to Undersecretary of the Air Force Erin Conaton.

Air Force leaders sought to sustain and modernize the capabilities that enable the service to support the Department of Defense’s new strategic guidance, Conaton told reporters during a media roundtable Feb. 17 in the Pentagon.

The U.S. military continues to rely heavily on Air Force space programs for a wide variety of activities that allow the military to be effective on the battlefield, she said.

As the Air Force went into the current budget cycle, she said, Air Force leaders were committed to aligning the service with the new DOD strategic guidance released Jan. 5, which included protecting programs in the budget that support main Air Force mission areas such as space.

“You see space highlighted in a variety of parts of the (DOD) strategy as critical to the full variety of missions that we take on, from the counterterrorism fight on the low end to the anti-access, area-denial challenge on the high end,” she said.

Conaton said that key capabilities such as missile warning, satellite communications, launch and space situational awareness were protected in this year’s budget to ensure continued support to warfighters and space operations around the globe.

Addressing the reduction in overall funding levels for the fiscal 2013 space program budget over last year, the undersecretary explained that this was due to four reasons.

“First, a lot of our programs have moved out of the developmental phase and are in production at this point,” Conaton said. “Obviously, that has a different funding profile.

“Second, our partners in Congress were incredibly generous in helping to robust the Wideband Global Satellite communications program, which allowed us to not have to fund additional satellites in that program this year,” she said.

Third, Congress decided to terminate the Defense Weather Satellite System program, so funding for that was no longer needed in the fiscal 2013 budget, Conaton said.

And lastly, she said, the Air Force had to make some hard budget decisions on what areas could be scaled back or cut from the space program.

“When we looked at things like the Satellite Modernization Initiative line ... we had to take some reductions there,” she said. “The department also decided to go a different path in terms of how we deal with operationally responsive space and to no longer use a stand-alone ORS program.”

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

AT&Tsalutes all those who let freedom ring.

Military personnel receive 15% off monthly qualified charges.

BUY A PANTECH ELEMENT™ FOR

GET A

24999 FREE

$

New 2-yr agreement and qualifying data plan required.

PANTECH BURST™ New 2-yr agreement with qualifying voice and data plans required.

Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. 4G speeds delivered by LTE, or HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul, where available. Deployment ongoing. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Learn more at att.com/network.

FREE SHIPPING | 1.866.MOBILITY – ATT.COM – VISIT A STORE

Come visit our Device Support Center located at

5802 E VIRGINIA BEACH BLVD., SUITE 127, NORFOLK, VA 23502, (757) 285-8010 HOURS OF OPERATION: MON–SAT: 9AM–9PM; SUN: 10AM–7PM Limited-time offer. $249.99 price requires bundle purchase (Pantech Element with 2-yr agreement and min $35/mo. data plan and Pantech Burst with 2-yr agreement and voice (min $39.99/mo.) and monthly data plan (min $20/mo.)). If tablet is returned within 14 days or smartphone returned within 30 days of bundled purchase, you will be charged the difference between the discounted price and nondiscounted price for the device not returned. Subject to Wireless Customer Agrmt. Credit approval req’d. Activ fee $36/line. Geographic, usage, and other terms, conditions, and restrictions apply and may result in svc termination. Coverage and svcs not avail everywhere. Taxes and other charges apply. Data (att.com/dataplans): If usage exceeds your monthly data allowance, you will automatically be charged overage for additional data provided. Early Termination Fee (att.com/equipmentETF): After 30 days, ETF up to $325. Restocking fee up to $35 on smartphones and up to 10% of tablet sales price. Other Monthly Charges: Line may include a Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge (up to $1.25), a gross receipts surcharge, federal and state universal svc charges, and fees and charges for other gov’t assessments. These are not taxes or gov’t req’d charges. Visit a store or att.com/wireless to learn more about wireless devices and services from AT&T. Monthly Discount: Service discount applies only to the monthly service charge of qualified plans and not to any other charges. See store for details. Special restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated. Pantech, Burst, and Element are trademarks of Pantech Co., Ltd. ©2012 AT&T Intellectual Property.

5

6

www.peninsulawarrior.com

HARRY H. HEYSON III Attorney At Law

from $ Divorce, Uncontested ................

175 Separation Agreement ................ $75

★Fault and Contested Divorces ★Custody Hearings Mariner Bldg., Suite 103 12388 Warwick Blvd., N.N

595-1155

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Vehicles Include Taxes, Hardplates, and Insurance.

Get your base sticker NOW!

BAY AUTO WHOLESALE Call for a free round-trip ride!

CALL TOLL FREE 497-4000 or 1-800-394-3939 1-877-411-1169 We are an approved M.A.P.P. Dealer

Thomas W. Butterfoss, D.M.D., P.C. Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

Jennifer L. Butterfoss Barton, D.D.S., M.S.

SPECIALISTS IN ORTHODONTICS Braces For Adults and Children LOCATIONS:

• 4310 George Washington Memorial Highway, Grafton 898-5448 • 2111 Hartford Rd., Hampton 838-3400 • 6882-A Main Street, Gloucester 804-695-2575

New Patients Welcome Major Insurance Accepted • Invisalign Provider www.drbutterfoss.com

MENTION THIS PUBLICATION FOR COMPLIMENTARY EXAM

FRAME STRAIGHTENING

INSURANCE CLAIMS HONORED FREE ESTIMATES

FIBER GLASS REPAIR

24 HOUR TOWING

874-5621 Open for your convenience M-F: 8AM -6PM Sat: 8AM - 2PM

908 Lucas Creek Rd. Newport News, VA

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

Airman rises to the ‘Top’

By Airman 1st Class Austin C. Harvill 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Tops in Blue is for the elite musicians and entertainers of the Air Force; a once in a lifetime opportunity... or is it?

Staff Sgt. Anthoney M. Williams, a firefighter with the 633rd Civil Engineer Squadron, has been selected for another round at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, as a trumpeter for the expeditionary entertainment unit.

To enter Tops in Blue, participants must first submit an audition video to be reviewed by Tops in Blue personnel.

After initial cuts, the remaining hopefuls go to a 10-day competition at Lackland AFB. Those selected are put on the team for that year, according to the Tops in Blue official website, www.topsinblue.com.

Williams did his first tour with Tops in Blue soon after his enlistment in August 2007. While he was in technical training, he saw a flyer for Tops in Blue.

As an avid trumpet player, he said he was intrigued.

After submitting his rendition of “Don’t Know Why” by Nora Jones, the teenage trumpeter was selected, and went to Lackland to audition for a spot in Tops in Blue, he said.

“I was beyond ecstatic,” he said, “But also I didn’t know what to expect.”

As a new recruit to both the Air Force and Tops in Blue, Williams described his experiences as a rollercoaster of challenges and enjoyment. Going back to his job as a firefighter was equally bittersweet.

“They were like family by then,” he said.”I was happy to be done with the work, but at the same time I knew I would miss it all.”

Being an active-duty firefighter was a pleasant change of pace, Williams said.

Tops in Blue encourages its members to continue training and schooling in their respective job fields, but Williams felt he had enough to do already as a musician.

Once the youngAirman became Staff Sgt. Williams, he felt it was time to look into the unit a second time.

Being more seasoned in both his practice and his Air Force career, Williams wanted to add a leadership element to his second tour of Tops in Blue

Photo by Airman 1st Class Austin C. Harvill

Staff Sgt. Anthoney M.Williams, a firefighter with the 633rd Civil Engineer Squadron, was selected for a second tour withTops in Blue.Williams picked up the trumpet in sixth grade, playing it throughout high school and his Air Force career.

as a noncommissioned officer.

“I was confident until I saw they expected more from me as a returning member,” explained Williams.

The young sergeant expects they will have him be more involved with the technical aspects of the tour as well.

According to the Tops in Blue website, the touring unit is expected to set up the 60,000 pounds of staging, lighting and other accoutrements associated with any given show.

“People don’t know we did it all ourselves,” said Williams. “We are the ones who put up the stage; no one does it for us.”

Before there was Staff Sgt. Williams, there was Anthoney Williams from Valdosta, Ga., who picked up the trumpet in sixth grade band class.

“My older brother played and I wanted to be like him,” said Williams.

From that point, Williams said he fell in love with the trumpet. He played in

his church band at first, and then graduated to jazz and marching band when he entered high school.

During the summer before his junior year, Williams moved to Tacoma, Wash. He continued to play in jazz and marching band in his junior year.

However he didn’t like the musical difference from east to west, so he didn’t continue during his final year in high school. Instead, Williams joined some friends and played bass guitar at open mic nights.

After graduation, Williams enlisted in the Air Force and continued to play trumpet at any opportunity, a habit which has been rewarded time and time again.

Tops in Blue will travel around the world in 2012 as both entertainers and ambassadors of both the Air Force and the U.S. The 2011 Tops in Blue “Rhythm Tour” ended Jan. 25, and the unit is gathering the members for next year.

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

SecAF: Air Force must continue to modernize

By Tech. Sgt. Richard A. Williams Jr. AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AGENCY

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley highlighted the service’s need to continue future modernization plans during remarks to approximately 400 Airmen, industry officials and Air Force Association members Feb. 24 here.

Donley spoke on the second day of the Air Force Association’s 2012 Air Warfare Symposium and Technology Exposition, telling attendees the Air Force must recapitalize needed capabilities despite fiscal challenges.

“Yet, the new strategic guidance also requires continuing modernization, both to recapitalize aging systems and platforms and to address the proliferation of modern technologies and threats,” Donley said.

To meet this requirement, the secretary said service leaders determined that the Air Force’s best course of action is to trade size for quality.

“We will become smaller in order to protect a high quality and ready force, that will continue to modernize and grow more over time,” he said.

For a longer version “In this decision, we sought of this story, visit www. the proper balance between peninsulawarrior.com today’s Air Force and meeting the immediate needs of combatant commanders, while also laying the groundwork for the Air Force our nation will need ten years from now and beyond.”

While the fiscal 13 budget proposal slows the pace and scope of modernization, Air Force officials took measures to protect programs that are critical to future warfighter needs as outlined in the new strategic guidance, Donley said.

He said these programs include the Long Range Strike bomber; the KC-46A refueling tanker; key space programs such as Space-Based Infrared System and Advanced Extremely High Frequency satellites, as well as follow-on GPS work; advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and initiatives related to the Air-Sea Battle concept.

Building fifth-generation fighter capabilities is also critical, Donley. said “We remain fully committed to the F-35 (Lightning II joint strike fighter),” he said. “This is the future of the fighter force, not only for the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, but for about eleven other air forces as well.

The F-35 remains the largest single Air Force program, accounting for nearly 15 percent of our total investment.”

The secretary said that one of the keys to successful modernization within the Air Force is an effective acquisition process.

“Recapturing acquisition excellence has been a top priority for the Air Force, and in the last few years we have made important progress in....revitalizing the acquisition workforce, improving our requirements generation process, instilling budget and financial discipline, improving source selections, and establishing clear lines of authority and accountability within our acquisition organizations,” he said.

Give the gift of life - Please give blood

7

8

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

FeatureStory

)RUW (XVWLV FHOHEUDWHV $IULFDQ $PHULFDQ +LVWRU\ 0RQWK

By Tetaun Moffett 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

It was near standing room only during the Fort Eustis’ African-American History Month observance at Jacobs Theater Feb. 24. This year’s event, sponsored by the Fort Eustis Army Training Support Center, was attended by Soldiers, Airman, civilian employees and family members; who packed out the theater to celebrate the legacy of African-American women.

According to President Barrack Obama’s National African-American History Month proclamation for 2012, this year’s theme, “Black Women in American Culture and History,” focuses on the courageous visionaries who led the fight to end slavery, and tenacious activists who fought to expand basic civil rights to all Americans, African American women have long served as champions of social and political change.

During the celebration, the Hampton University Department of Fine and Performing Arts’, “Hampton Players” performed a myriad of short skits, traditional dances and songs, celebrating African-American women in history.

“Today in the military, no one thinks about oppression.

We believe we all are equal, but for us we still have short comings as African-American women, as well as other minorities. We now have a voice and an opportunity to make, not only for African-American women but for everyone in our great nation.”

— Col. Angelia D. Farnell keynote speaker at Fort Eustis’ African-American History Month observance at Jacobs Theater Feb. 24 Photos by Tetaun Moffett

Keynote speaker Col. Angelia D. Farnell, 111th Military Intelligence Brigade commander at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the history and accomplishments of African-Amer-

ican women.

“As we all look back at what others have done, we often need to look ahead at what we can do,” said Farnell. “I always tried to do what was right for all mankind, and

LEFT: Melvina Harrison, a traditional and contemporary gospel artist, serenades the standing-room-only crowd during the Fort Eustis African-American History Month Observance at Jacobs Theater on Feb. 24. This year’s theme focused on courageous visionaries, tenacious activists and champions of social and political change.

RIGHT: Linzy Henderson, Hampton University Department of Fine and Performing Arts’, “Hampton Players” dancer, performs an African-American themed dance.

never focus on the color of my skin or my ethnicity.”

Farnell continued by encouraging the audience to look back over the great history of notable African-American women, and how they stood up against oppression.

“Today in the military, no one thinks about oppression. We believe we all are equal, but for us we still have short comings as African-American women, as well as other minorities. We now have a voice and an opportunity to make, not only for African-American women but for everyone in our great nation,” said Farnell.

The event was capped off with a spirited performance by traditional and contemporary gospel artist Melvina Harrison, who serenaded the audience with “I Look to You” honoring the late pop-music icon Whitney Houston, who passed away Feb. 11.

“This was a wonderful event. I really enjoyed the performances and the singing,” said, Myron Tejada a family member. “It was one of the best observance celebrations I’ve attend here at Fort Eustis in a long time. ATSC did an exceptional job, the guest speaker was great, and so were all of the performances.”

MARCH 2, 2012 • The Peninsula Warrior - Army Pvt. Feng Ni works on replacing the water pump on a Stryker during his Stryker Systems Maintainer Course at Fort Lee. In the Stryker bay, there are four stand-alone Stryker engines that students work on as part of their training.

•

9

www.peninsulawarrior.com

CAREER F AIR &E E DUCATION

XPO

Hilton Norfolk Airport

1500 North Military Highway, Norfolk, VA 23518

Photo by Amy Perry

)RUW /HH JUDGXDWHV ¿UVW FODVV RI 6WU\NHU 6\VWHP 0DLQWDLQHUV

By Amy Perry ARMY NEWS SERVICE

Twenty Soldiers are making history today by being the first to graduate from the brand new Stryker Systems Maintainer military occupational specialty.

The Stryker, which is relatively new to the Army, is an eight-wheeled armored fighting vehicle. The new military occupational specialty, or MOS, 91 Sierra, will allow the Army to track the Soldiers who have received training on the Stryker and send them to the Army’s Stryker Brigade Combat Teams, or SBCTs, said Dennis Walker, Ordnance School Stryker Systems division chief.

In the past, Soldiers who were trained on the Stryker received an additional skill identifier, known as an ASI, showing their proficiency on the vehicle, he said. The problem was that it was complicated for the Army to track these Soldiers only by ASI, as the Army tracks Soldiers by their MOS. The Army decided to make it an MOS so it could have more control over the Soldiers who had the special training.

Before the 91S MOS was created, Soldiers were selected from the 91 Bravo Basic Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic Course to receive an additional four weeks of training to be awarded the ASI of R4 - Stryker Maintainer. This additional training consisted only of the automotive portion of the M11 series Stryker vehicle. Because of the Army’s tracking system, Soldiers who had received the ASI of R4 weren’t always placed in an SBCT. “Having Soldiers identified by the 91S MOS allows the Army to properly track these Soldiers and ensure that the Stryker brigades are getting their maintainers, sav-

ing the Army time and valuable resources,” Walker said. “Because of this, Human Resources Command can now track these Soldiers upon graduation as a Stryker Systems Maintainer who can go to only one of six duty assignments.”

Creating this new MOS will not only help the units have maintainers trained in the various aspects of the Stryker, but it also will allow maintenance to be performed more efficiently in garrison and in combat environments. Previously, these vehicles were maintained by three different MOSs — 91 Bravos with an ASI of R4, 91 Kilos with an ASI of R4 (armament systems mechanic), and the 91 Charlies (air conditioning/refrigeration mechanic) — which caused extended downtime for repairs.

“Instead of requiring three different mechanics, especially 91C and 91K, which are low-density MOSs, to repair the Stryker, you’ll need only one,” said Walker. “Since there aren’t many air conditioning and armament mechanics, it was challenging to get repairs completed in a timely manner.”

By consolidating the three MOSs, one maintainer can repair a piece of equipment in a more expedient manner.

“Having dedicated Stryker systems maintainers, eliminates most of the onthe-job training requirements for the different systems,” said Sgt. 1st First Class Vito Green, Ordnance School Stryker Systems chief instructor.

With the operational tempo and deployment cycles, units were finding it difficult to train Soldiers on the Stryker systems, said Green. This new MOS takes the critical tasks lists from three different MOSs to prepare these Soldiers for all aspects of the Stryker systems.

Wednesday, March 7th 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Companies At This Job Fair Will Be Hiring For: Supervisors, Recruiters, Sales Representatives, Collections Representatives, and much more!

757-446-2143

If your company would like to participate, contact Denise Wilson at 757-446-2143

10

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

:RPHQ¶V V\PSRVLXP WR KRVW KLJKHVW OHYHOV RI OHDGHUVKLS U.S. ARMY TRAINING AND DOCTRINE COMMAND

Leadership from America's highest levels will attend the Sea Service Leadership Association's 25th Silver Anniversary Joint Women's Leadership Symposium, March 5-6, 2012 at the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center at National Harbor, Md. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey; Assistant to President Obama and Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama Tina Tchen; Co-Chair on Military Issues for the Congressional Women's Caucus Rep. Susan Davis; Olympic Medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee; Former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Michèle Flournoy; Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus; and high ranking female military officers, who have paved the way for future generations, will be among the presenters at the largest gathering of women in uniform nationwide, with an anticipated 1,500 participants this year.

Taking place during Women's History Month and International Women's Week

and themed "United in Service: Our Global Impact," this year's symposium will spotlight the global impact of women military leaders, and focus on professional growth and leadership development.

All five branches of the U.S. military are participating in the symposium. Military officers from nations across the world will also be in attendance.

Throughout the day on March 5, attendees from the five services will gather to hear speakers and panels including addresses from Tina Tchen, Jackie JoynerKersee, Rep. Susan Davis, Gen. Martin Dempsey, and Michèle Flournoy. JoynerKersee will be addressing female empowerment, leadership and overcoming challenges in her career.

Dempsey will offer the keynote address for the Joint Leadership Awards Luncheon where each of the five service branches will recognize individuals from their respective branch for their exemplary leadership, ideals and dedication. Navy Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben, the chaplain of the Marine Corps and

CAREERCONNECTION PRESENTS:

Transitioning Military Security Clearance & Skilled Trade Career Event LIVE ONLINE!

March 14th – March 28th at www.VirtualCareerEvent.com/CareerConnection areerConnection IN PERSON

Wednesday, March 21st 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Constant Convocation Center, 4320 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, VA A

DAILY IN THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT AND AT HAMPTONROADS.COM

Free & Open Job to Seeke rs!

the deputy chief of chaplains of the U.S. Navy, the first female to serve either of the roles, will give the blessing.

Among those being recognized during the luncheon is George Washington University Student Midshipman 1st Class Charlotte Wygant, who is being honored with The Sea Service Leadership Association Leadership Award, granted to an outstanding NROTC senior midshipman, who is a top performer and has demonstrated superior leadership abilities through academic accomplishments, leadership style and community involvement. The U.S. Air Force will honor retired Brig. Gen. Wilma Vaught, president of the Board of Directors of the Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation, Inc. for her trailblazing leadership and dedication to honoring all women who have served in uniform.

A Female Flag and General Officer panel featuring pioneering female leaders also takes place on March 5. Among the participants are Rear Adm. Michelle Howard, first African-American woman to command a warship in the U.S. Navy; Lt. Gen. Susan Lawrence, the U.S. Army's chief information officer at Headquarters, Department of the Army who has commanded at every level from platoon to Army Signal Command; and Brig. Gen. Loretta Reynolds, the first female Marine to ever hold a command position in a battle zone and the first female general to command Parris Island, S.C. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gina Grosso, former Joint Base and 87th Air Base Wing commander at Joint Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst, N.J., the nation's first and only tri-service joint base and Coast Guard Rear Adm. Linda Fagan, first woman to command Sector New York, the largest operation field command in the Coast Guard are also participants.

Among the Global Impact of Women in Uniform panel participants are Vice Adm. Carol Pottenger, the highest ranked female officer in NATO; retired Air Marshal Padmavathy Bandopadhyay, the first woman Air Marshal in the history of the Indian Air Force; and Cmdr. Jan Dunmurray, commander of the Swedish Defense Command Centre for Gender in Military Operations.

The session will examine the varied approaches nations are taking towards gender integration in their Armed Forces.

The March 6 agenda (listed at right) will include programs specific to each service branch, including remarks from high ranking officers.

Navy • Presenters include Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert.

• Among the attendees of the WAVES Luncheon will be Elizabeth Robinson, age 91; Marie Cush, age 89; and Arlene Howard, age 88. Among the first women to serve in the Navy, they served during World War II. The WAVES were brought in during the war with the understanding that at its completion, they would not be permitted to continue Navy careers.

Air Force • Maj. Gen. Margaret Woodward, the first woman to command an offensive air operation during the NATO mission in Libya will give a keynote address "Be the Voice: Legacy of Courageous Leadership." Also delivering a keynote address will be the highest ranking woman in the Air Force Lt. Gen. Janet Wolfenbarger, recently nominated by President Obama for her fourth star; if confirmed by the Senate, she would be the first female four-star general in the Air Force.

• Maj. Allison Black, known as "The Angel of Death," the first female AC-130H Spectre navigator to open fire in combat operations; and former WASP Elaine Harmon, will be panel participants on "Inspiration from Airmen." The WASPs were a trailblazing group of civilian female pilots who were the first to fly military aircraft under the direction of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.

Army • Maj. Gen. Marcia Anderson, deputy chief, Army Reserve ; Office of the Chief, Army Reserve, the first African-American woman to be promoted to major general in the U.S. Army will be the keynote speaker.

• Retired Col. Nancy Jane Currie, first female Army officer to become an astronaut, will speak on the global impact of math, science and engineering and the gender divide. Additional participants include Ellen Helmerson, deputy chief of staff for personnel and logistics, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command; and Dr. Mary Matiella, assistant secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller.

Coast Guard • Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Robert J. Papp will be offering the day two keynote address.

The Marines also have a diverse selection of speakers and panels planned.

To speak with a representative from the Sea Service Leadership Association about the symposium, please contact Victoria Shapiro at (216) 712-1926, (202) 414-0774 or e-mail vshapiro@susandavis.com.

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

11

www.peninsulawarrior.com

&KDSHO VWXG\ JURXS RIIHUV VXSSRUW IRU /DQJOH\ :LFFDQV

By Senior Airman Jason J. Brown 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The Langley Chapel now sponsors a Wicca study group, adding to its robust list of support programs for Langley’s faithful.

The group, organized and led by distinctive faith-group leader Staff Sgt. Catherine Quinlan, was founded to provide a community forum for Wiccans, Pagans, and persons of various related “earth-based religions,� bringing like-minded worshippers together and educating curious visitors.

Quinlan, who serves as a biomedical-equipment technician in the 633rd Medical Support Squadron, said she organized the group to create an environment of tolerance, education, and camaraderie among participants. In the past, similar groups have been the target of criticism and attacks based on misinformation and incorrect interpretation — something Quinlan hopes to change through Wiccan values and communication. “We follow the ‘Wiccan Rede, ‘summarized as ‘harm none, do what ye will,’ and mind the ‘Three-fold Law,’ which is the belief that any harm or good that a Wiccan does to someone else comes back to hurt or beneďŹ t them three times,â€?

she said. “Most importantly, we don’t proselytize, and we welcome all open-minded people who want to engage and learn more.�

Group activities include discussion, readings, and hands-on practices, such as making runes and protection candles. In addition to the bimonthly meetings, members may attend additional meetings in celebration of the eight major holidays most Wiccans celebrate that coincide with the solar and lunar calendar, as well as the full and new moons of each month.

While Quinlan aims to bring fellow Wiccans and Pagans together, all personnel and dependents are welcome to attend the study group. “I would like this group to be an opportunity to learn about other paths, and encourage open discourse between faiths,� Quinlan said. “This is one of the reasons I was drawn to Wicca. There is no wrong path, as long as you strive to embrace the divinity within yourself and help others along their path to the divine.�

The Wicca Study Group meets at the Bethel Chapel every ďŹ rst and third Saturday of each month from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Staff Sgt. Catherine Quinlan by emailing catherine.quinlan@langley.af.mil.

Photo by Senior Airman Jason J. Brown

A Wiccan Altar, including statuaries of the Goddess and God, a cauldron, pentacle, stones, and books are among the materials used in the Langley Chapel’s Wicca study group, which meets every ďŹ rst and third Saturday of the month at the Bethel Chapel. According to Staff Sgt. Catherine Quinlan, the distinctive faith-group leader, the group was founded to provide a community forum for Wiccans, Pagans, and persons of various related “earth-based religions,â€? bringing like-minded worshippers together and educating curious visitors.

From Retired Military to Active Duty Student.

After 20 years of service to her country, retired military veteran Carmella Murray still wants to lead and serve. She chose Regent University to ďŹ nish her undergraduate degree for its academic integrity, leadership focus and values-based approach.

The former Air Force recruiter says Regent’s military-friendly beneďŹ ts, tuition discounts and textbook credits make her exceptional education possible. Ready to join us?

888.718.1222 regent.edu/undergrad Associate’s • Bachelor’s • Master’s • Doctoral On Campus | Online

Carmella Murray, Retired Military Veteran

C h r i s t i a n

9 , 5* , 1, $ % ( $&+ 9 , 5* , 1, $

L e a d e r s h i p

t o

C h a n g e

t h e

W o r l d

Regent University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Collegess and Schools to award associates, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404.679.4500 for questions aboutt the accreditation of Regent University. Regent University admits students without discrimination on the basis of race, color, disability, gender, religion or national or ethnic origin. Regent University is certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to operate campuses within the Commonwealth of Virginia. UNG120060

12

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

13

Working to remain a Warrior :DUULRU 7UDQVLWLRQ 8QLW XVHV µDGDSWLYH VSRUWV¶WR PRWLYDWH 6ROGLHUV MCDONALD ARMY HEALTH CENTER

“I am a Warrior in Transition. My job is to heal as I transition back to duty, or continue serving the nation as a veteran in my community. This is not a status, but a mission. I will succeed in this mission because I am a warrior and I am Army strong.”

This is the Army’s creed for transitioning warriors. As these Soldiers focus on their reconditioning efforts and the possibility of returning to full duty, they rely on the care and support they receive from the Warrior Transition Unit here at McDonald Army Health Center.

The mission of the WTU is to provide command and control, primary care and case management for Soldiers in transition to establish the conditions for their healing and to promote their timely return to the force or transition to civilian life. It is comprised of proud, dedicated professionals who remain committed to helping wounded, ill and injured Soldiers through their healing process.

One such individual is U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class William Lassiter, a WTU cadre.

Also a platoon sergeant and the Adaptive Sports Coordinator, Lassiter was chiefly responsible for organizing the “Adaptive Sports Day” recently held at the McClellan Fitness Center. In addition to planning a fun-filled event, Lassiter said the significance of hosting such an event was to boost unit morale and raise the competitiveness of the WTU Soldiers.

“My goal was to ensure that wounded Soldiers knew that there were alternative sporting events that could be adapted to their injuries. I also wanted them to know that in spite of their injuries, they can still compete at company and higher levels with practice,” said Lassiter, who noted that even more Soldiers would have come out had they not been pulled away by mandatory medical appointments.

The Adaptive Sports Day attracted 34 participants and featured two competitive sports — sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball. Lassiter divided the participants into four teams — HQ,

“My goal was to ensure that wounded Soldiers knew that there were alternative sporting events that could be adapted to their injuries. I also wanted them to know that in spite of their injuries, they can still compete at company and higher levels with practice.”

— U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class William Lassiter WTU cadre and the Adaptive Sports Coordinator

1st, 2nd, and 3rd platoons, respectively. Along with assistance from his fellow cadre, Lassiter then organized the competition into a single-elimination tournament, developing the teams and brackets while using a scoring system that favored each team — win or lose. The points earned in the morning were added to the points accumulated in the afternoon. The team with the most points at the end of the day was declared the winner.

From the facial expressions of those who participated in these two adaptive sports events, it was clear that it was much harder and more physically demanding than one would ordinarily think. Yet, fun was had by all who participated, and watched.

“It seemed like everyone that participated had a good time. Some family members got to spend the day with their spouses and cheer for mom or dad. This was a great morale booster, and it helped build esprit de corps,” said Capt. J. Travis Robinette, WTU company commander.

The participants started the day playing sitting volleyball. In this game, the net was lowered to the floor, and players were only allowed to serve and volley the ball from a seated position. At no time were the players permitted to rise from the floor to hit the ball.

Following lunch at the Soldier and Family Assistance Center,, the participants returned to the fitness center in the afternoon to test their agility, stamina, and of course, shooting skills in four full-court, wheelchair basketball games. While some of the participants proved to be better than others at this sport, it proved to be just as challenging as the volleyball matches. As the players wheeled themselves back and forth across the distance of the basketball court, many crashed into one another or fell backward onto the court while either attempting to make a pass or score a basket.

Despite the bumps and bruises, this event was deemed an overall success.

In addition to the family members who came out as spectators, the sports day was supported by such organizations as the McClellan Fitness Center, U.S. Paralympics, S-FAC, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Along with additional support from several nurse case managers, Frank Howard, WTU ombudsman, was pleased to have in attendance Pamela Lehnert of the National Rehabilitation Hospital Paralympic Military Program, and Dr. Lorene Petta, the unit’s Comprehensive Soldier Fitness-Performance and Resilient Enhancement Program instructor, who traveled here from

The mission of the Warrior Transition Unit is to provide command and control, primary care and case management for Soldiers in transition to establish the conditions for their healing and to promote their timely return to the force or transition to civilian life.

Fort Bragg, NC. The event’s overall success, however, was credited to Lassiter for hosting the event, and ensuring it was well-organized.

“The event created team unity and cohesion that was evident by the competitiveness. It allowed Soldiers with injuries to forget about their injuries for a short time and allowed them to become part of a sports team,” said Lassiter, who looks forward to coordinating more events. “I’ve had soldiers ask when the next event will be, and what the sporting events will be so they can prepare.”

The Adaptive Sports Day is a “good lead-in” for the annual Warrior Games held each Spring in Colorado Springs, Colo., according to. Lehnert, a program coordinator for the U.S. Paralympics. Although this event was not planned as a qualifier or selection clinic for the Warrior Games, Lehnert said sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball events are two of the sports played during the Warrior Games’ competition.

She added that these events are quite intense, and the stands are usually filled with huge crowds of screaming fans.

Other sports hosted during Warrior Games include archery, cycling, shooting, swimming, and track and field.

From the smiles displayed and interest shown to host more events like this, the WTU commander believes the best is yet to come. He could see an immediate rise in the competitive spirit of his unit, as each team pushed its opponent to the limit in both events. In this first outing, 2nd Platoon claimed victory by accumulating the most points.

Upon accepting the WTU Adaptive Sports Competition Commanders Cup, the platoon selected star player Lauren Birdsong as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

“Competition has arisen between platoons, which has generated excitement for the next quarterly Adaptive Sports Day,” Robinette said. “The long term vision is to be a sustainable event which will enhance each and every member of the company, Soldiers, cadre, and staff alike.”

U.S. Army Sgt.Timothy Boyland of 1st Platoon lines up for a shot from the outside during basketball action of the WarriorTransition Unit’s Adaptive Sports Day recently at the McClellan Fitness Center at Fort Eustis.

Photo by Marlon J. Martin

Photos by Selvin C. Walker

By Marlon J. Martin

Spc. Richard d Shepan (center) of Headquarters Platoon manages to get away fro om a fast-approaching Kenneth Norris of 3rd Platoon, as he pushes th he ball up the court during wheel-chair basketball action of the WTU’s s Adaptive Sports Day recently held at the McClellan Fitness Center at Fort Eustis.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Manuel Molina (left) of 1st Platoon attempts to block Sgt. Jason McCord of 2nd Platoon from making a pass.The mission of the WTU is to provide care and case management for Soldiers in transition to establish the conditions for their healing, and to promote their timely return to the force or transition to civilian life.

Sgt. Patricia Chatman of 3rd Platoon eyes the rim in her effort to net two points during wheel-chair basketball action of the WTU’s Adaptive Sports Day, which attracted 34 participants and featured two competitive sports: sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball.

14

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

UH HQOLVWPHQW ZLQGRZ RSHQV ZLWK UHVWULFWLRQV

By Rob McIlvaine ARMY NEWS SERVICE

With 10 years of war winding down, the focus is now, more than ever, on retention of quality Soldiers.

Beginning March 1, if a Soldier’s estimated termination of service is between Oct. 1, 2012 and Sept. 30, 2013, he or she can re-enlist between now and Sept 30 of this year.

Accompanying this opportunity to continue in the Army, new policies allow brigade commanders to make a life-altering decision without sending a recommendation up to the commander of Human Resources Command.

“The Army instituted additional reasons for a mandatory bar to re-enlistment,” added Jim Bragg, chief of the Retention and Reclassification Branch at Human Resources Command.

“We’re just reminding commanders that they have tools out there to identify sub-standard Soldiers and have the responsibility to give them a road map for success to stay in the Army. Commanders should deny retention to those who fail to demonstrate potential for continued

Photo by Sgt. James Sims

Capt. Michael Riha re-enlists Staff Sgt. Robby Ragos on top of Ghar Mountain at the Kabul MilitaryTraining Center in Kabul,Afghanistan.

Soldiers from Delta Security Force made the early morning climb to re-enlist four Soldiers.

service. The Army wants commanders to identify Soldiers who deserve the privilege of serving,’” Bragg said.

“For instance,” Bragg said, “if a Sol-

ODU Peninsula is centrally located off the H Hampton Roads Center Parkway

Right Where You Are!

Engineering & Technology Open House Wed., March 14,2012 4-6pm

Meet Faculty, Program Directors, Admissions Rep Representatives, & learn about Graduate and Bachelor’s Degrees Gra

CALL (757) 766-5200 CA VISIT www.odu.edu/peninsula VI

600 Butler Farm Rd, Room 2235 Hampton, Virginia 23666

or

www.odu.edu/regionalcenters ww

dier’s ETS (expiration of term of service) is 10 months from now and the commander says, ‘you do not show potential for future service’ all leaders must ensure they outline a plan of action for that Soldier to overcome his/her shortcomings.”

“Just as we trust the brigade commanders to take these Soldiers to war and execute, we can trust them to make the right decision for the Army,” Bragg said.

On Feb. 2, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, and Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh signed a memo that specifically spells out these changes: “Over the next few years, our Army will reduce its end strength and shape the force for future requirements. As we begin this deliberate process, it is imperative we retain those Soldiers with the greatest potential for future service — ones truly deserving to remain a part of our Army team.”

“To help us get to our desired end strength,” the three Army leaders said, “we will fundamentally change the active-component retention program. This will provide our brigade-level commanders the flexibility and agility needed to retain those who best meet the needs of our Army.

“Tough decisions are ahead,” they said.

“Some fully qualified Soldiers will be denied re-enlistment. Commanders must carefully assess their Soldiers and ensure only (the) best are retained to meet the needs of (the) Army.”

“Brigade commanders,” Bragg said, “have always been able to ensure they reenlist quality by using their flagging actions by saying, for instance, ‘OK, you’re overweight, you can’t re-enlist until you meet the weight standards,’ adding that this is the first time in recent history where brigade commanders have had the authority to deny re-enlistment to Soldiers who are fully qualified to re-enlist.

“Now, if the Soldier meets all the quality standards that we say they have to — (such as) pass the PT test, retention control points, meet height-weight standards, and all the other things a Soldier is supposed to do — if that commander still feels the Soldier is not deemed to have the potential to serve after completing a quality review of the “Whole Soldier,” then they can deny retention,” Bragg said.

Commanders have received specific

implementation guidance from the Army G-1, addressing Soldiers in over-strength, balanced and shortage military occupational specialties, known as MOSs. In addition, guidance has instructed commanders to use the “Whole Soldier” concept when determining their best.

This determination includes attributes, competencies, leadership potential, adherence to standards, duty performance, and evaluations that demonstrate ability to serve in any MOS. Under this guidance, some Soldiers will be required to reclassify from overstrength career fields to under-strength, or balanced ones, to meet Army requirements. It is imperative that commanders and command sergeants majors ensure Soldiers receive performance counseling, officials said, as this will be one of the key tools of determining retention.

In this directive, specific retention policy changes are: 1. Brigade/O-6 level commanders and above have the authority to deny re-enlistment to those Soldiers not deemed best qualified. (Previously only the HRC commander had this authority) 2. Increased retention standards for staff sergeant and above who have not executed an indefinite re-enlistment contract. Soldiers with the following are not eligible to re-enlist without an exception to policy from HRC: ■ Relief-for-Cause NCO Evaluation Report.

■ “No” listed in Part IV of an NCOER. ■ Senior rating of “4” or “5” in Part V of NCOER. ■ DAForm 1059 indicating failure of NonCommissioned Officer Education System.

3. Addition of mandatory reasons to initiate a bar to re-enlistment: ■ Loss of Primary Military Occupational Specialties, or PMOS qualifications due to fault of the Soldier ■ Denied Command List Integration, or CLI, for promotion by unit commander ■ Drug/Alcohol incident within current enlistment ■ Two or more field-grade Article 15s during current enlistment ■ AWOL more than 96 hours during current enlistment For more information on Army retention policies and procedures, Soldiers should contact their unit career counselor for policy and processing guidance.

Check us out online at www.peninsulawarrior.com

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

15

)UHH JDV /DQJOH\ VW VHUJHDQWV VXUSULVH MXQLRU $LUPHQ

By Tech. Sgt. Randy Redman 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Airmen lined up around the block at the gas station on base Feb. 27, waiting for their turn to receive a free tank of gas.

The First Sergeant’s Council gave away $1,000 in free fuel to junior enlisted personnel as part of their Random Acts of Kindness Program.

“Free fuel? It’s the best thing that could happen to me,” said Senior Airman James Walea, 1st Maintenance Squadron mechanic.

“I think it’s amazing; especially with the rise in gas prices,” said Senior Airman Shalayne Dulan, 1st Fighter Wing Knowledge Operations manager. “We really appreciate it.”

Master Sgt. Ryan McCauley, 633rd Air Base Wing staff agencies’ first sergeant, said the event was spearheaded conjunction with the Operation Warmheart program, and the idea came about during discussion about the distribution of gift cards during the holiday season.

“Rather than providing simple gift cards to members and their families, we’ve garnered support from several organizations on and off base who provide toys to make the holiday season more enjoyable for our junior service members.

This has freed up that money to be used throughout the year to provide special grants and loans as members encounter unplanned emergencies,” said McCauley. “The Random Acts of Kindness is an extension of that program, which is targeted at the military population that may not require the immediate assistance, but can certainly benefit from it.”

Operation Warmheart is a nonprofit organization run by the First Sergeants Council to receive, manage and distribute charitable funds to Langley families. The majority of distributions occur

Photos by Tech. Sgt. Randy Redman

ABOVE: Junior enlistedAirman wait in line for a free tank of fuel at the gas station at Langley Air Force Base, Feb. 27. The base’s First Sergeant’s Council pumped free fuel for junior enlisted personnel as part of their Random Acts of Kindness Program.

RIGHT: Master Sgt. Rob Mediavilla (left), 633rd Medical Group first sergeant, pumps a free tank of gas for Senior Airman James Walea, 1st Maintenance Squadron mechanic. Master Sgt. Ryan McCauley, 633rd Air BaseWing staff agencies’ first sergeant, center, explains the details of the Random Acts of Kindness Program, and why the First Sergeant’s Council gave away $1,000 in gas.

during the November to December holiday season, but McCauley said special grants and loans are provided to Airmen throughout the year in the event an unforeseen emergency arises and Airmen do not have the financial means to support their family during the emergency.

Master Sgt. Rob Mediavilla, 633rd Med-

ical Group first sergeant, said the five first sergeants who participated gave away nearly 300 gallons of free gas for 45 cars.

“It brings a great sense of satisfaction to know that we are able to take care of our Airmen who work so diligently to accomplish the mission every day,” said Mediavilla. “The demands of a high operation-

“It brings a great sense of satisfaction to know that we are able to take care of our Airmen who work so diligently to accomplish the mission every day. The demands of a high operational tempo and thinning force continually take their toll on our Airmen. So it is nice to be able to give something tangible back to them and their families, who continue to sacrifice for our country and ask nothing in return.”

— Master Sgt. Rob Mediavilla 633rd Medical Group first sergeant

Looking for a

new car?

WATTS FAMILY DENTISTRY Caring Dentistry with An Artist's Touch • Dr. Jasper N. Watts • Dr. Kenneth Boyd • Dr. Ariel Wartofsky •Dr. Elias Llerandi • Dr. Adam Lane • Dr. Thrya Jagger • Evening Hours & Saturday Hours

757.363.7777 www.autohmc.com

al tempo and thinning force continually take their toll on our Airmen. So it is nice to be able to give something tangible back to them and their families, who continue to sacrifice for our country and ask nothing in return.”

McCauley echoed that sentiment, adding that Operation Warmheart gives every single dollar received back to the Airmen of Team Langley.

“The random acts are another way we can spread the word about the Warmheart program while showing the people who have made contributions to the program some of the positive effects their generous donations have made throughout the year,” said McCauley.

The random acts is not a new concept, as other First Sergeant Councils around the Air Force have hosted similar events. However, this was the first time at Langley.

• Invisalign and Bleaching Offered

Welcome Military!

We accept ALL Military Insurance 907 Big Bethel Road • Hampton, VA 23666

(757) 838-5999 • www.wattsdentistry.com

16

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

7HOOLQJ JKRVW VWRULHV *KRVW KXQWHUV VHHN HYLGHQFH RI VSLULWV DQG SDUDQRUPDO DFWLYLW\ LQ KLVWRULF /DQJOH\ EXLOGLQJ

By Senior Airman Jason J. Brown 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

For years, claims of strange sounds and eerie visions inside the 633rd Contracting Squadron’s historic headquarters on Langley Air Force Base have perpetuated ghost stories shared among base personnel.

Upon learning of the paranormal lore, a team of local investigators geared up and spent a night in Building 90 in early January, hunting for evidence of spirits who may have stayed behind in the aging farmhouse.

According to Ray Savino, founder of R.T.L. Paranormal, the non-profit investigation organization, reports of apparitions and shadowy figures lurking throughout the building piqued his interest.

“We heard stories of an apparition by the water fountain on the second floor, a figure in a second-floor window as people leave to go home and the smell of pastry-baking in the mornings,” Savino said.

Chief Master Sgt. Bradley Smith, the squadron’s superintendent, said he heard the stories before he arrived at Langley, and hoped an investigation would validate the claims.

Savino, whose full-time job is working for Langley’s commissary, researched the history of the building and the surrounding property, and found a storied past.

The building was constructed as the farmhouse for a local plantation, called Hem-

Photo by Airman 1st Class Racheal Watson

Building 90 on Langley Air Force Base, home to the 633rd Contracting Squadron, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl named Natalie. People who work in the building have reported hearing the laughter of a child and seeing smoking apparitions.

enway Farms. After falling under bank control, a local university used the building as a co-educational boarding school.

Eventually, the U.S. Army purchased the land for development into Langley Field, commissioned in 1917.

Armed with a variety of equipment, including digital and infrared cameras, fullspectrum camcorders, audio recorders, and a three-camera digital video recorder system, R.T.L. Paranormal’s 11-person team met with 633rd CONS leadership to investigate overnight Jan. 6.

During the night, various investigators reported unusual occurrences, including telephones mysteriously switching their speakerphones on and off, and voices from unoccupied offices. The investigators took extra care not to “contaminate” areas under surveillance with foreign sounds.

“We do what we call ‘tagging.’ When we enter a room or make a sound, like a cough or sneeze, we ‘tag’ that sound by verbally noting it; for example ‘That was Ray coughing,’” Savino explained. “That way when we review audio and video, we know what noises are explained and what they are. If we don’t tag it, we review it as possible evidence during our meeting.

“If we see or hear something ‘odd’ during an investigation, we do whatever it takes to see what could have caused it, trying to rule out false positives,” he continued.

Upon reviewing the audio and video footage from the investigation, Savino and his colleagues found a wealth of anomalies, including more than 25 instances of electronic voice phenomena, or EVP, and one curious piece of video evidence. The investigators returned to the 633rd CONS Feb. 24 to reveal their findings to squadron leadership.

EVP is described as brief, speech-like sounds captured on audio recordings, theorized to be paranormal in nature. Investigators may or may not hear these sounds while investigating, but discover them during playback. One of R.T.L.’s EVP findings was what sounded like a woman or child humming a song, emanating from a vacant hallway on the second floor.

Photo by Senior Airman Jason J. Brown

Lt. Col. Christopher Wegner (right), 633rd Contracting Squadron commander, reviews audio recordings with Beth Massie, an investigator with R.T.L. Paranormal, in the squadron's conference room Feb. 24.Among the evidence collected during R.T.L.'s investigation of the 633rd CONS building recently were nearly 30 instances of what investigators dubbed electronic voice phenomena, theorized to be paranormal in nature.

All persons present at the investigation confirmed no one was in the area at the time the ghostly song was recorded, as most of the team was outside on the building’s wraparound porch on a break.

Additionally, night-vision DVR footage from the basement revealed what looks like a shadowy, human-shaped figure “following” an investigator through a narrow passageway, appearing briefly

“The night was very interesting.

There were a couple clear cases of things that appear to be out of the norm. From everything I have heard and a couple instances from this investigation, the possibility that something out of the ordinary exists is quite possible.”

— Chief Master Sgt. Bradley Smith 633rd Contracting Squadron superintentdent

before dissipating into the darkness.

The wealth of intriguing evidence convinced the investigators that the activity is paranormal, but not threatening or malignant.

“I believe that there is a lot of stuff going in this house, but nothing to be afraid of,” Savino said. “There is some sadness in certain areas of the building, and there is happiness and playfulness in others.”

Lt. Col. Christopher Wegner, the 633rd CONS commander, and Smith joined R.T.L. Paranormal during the investigation. Wegner said despite his initial skepticism, he supported the investigation because he “wanted scientific answers” to prove or disprove the existence of paranormal activity in the building.

“The night was very interesting,” said Smith, who admits to having long been interested in paranormal activity.

“There were a couple clear cases of things that appear to be out of the norm,” the chief said. “From everything I have heard and a couple instances from this investigation, the possibility that something out of the ordinary exists is quite possible.”

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

17

www.peninsulawarrior.com

PRESENTED BY: 2011 Heroes at Home Military Spouse of the Year Spouse of Captain Samuel Arnett - Joint Base Langley-Eustis

SARA JANE ARNETT

Join us in honoring our unsung heroes for their sacrifices, their strengths and their commitment to our community.

NOMINATE A DESERVING SPOUSE TODAY! TO POST YOUR NOMINATION SIMPLY LOG ON TO FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM AND CLICK ON HEROES AT HOME. All nominees will be recognized by our local business and military communities at the awards luncheon on May 10th where we will announce the 10 finalists and the 2012 Heroes of Home Military Spouse of the Year!

The Heroes at Home Military Spouse of the Year will be chosen from nominees provided by active duty personnel from

★ ★

all branches of the military,spouse support groups, charitable organizations, friends and family. ★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

CALL FOR ENTRIES! ★ NOMINATE YOUR HERO TODAY!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

★

★

DEADLINE FOR ENTRY IS MARCH 30 AT MIDNIGHT ★

★

★

★

Your Local Chevy Dealers

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

★

18

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

EustisCommunity Environmental restoration Community interviews are currently being conducted in your neighborhood to update and fine-tune the Public Information and Community Involvement Plan for the Fort Eustis Superfund/Environmental Restoration project.

Your input is important to us. If you are interested in participating, the interview questionnaire can be completed by phone or online. Please call Sandra Chaloux at (888) 612-5380 toll free, or visit website http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e5idb4f1gxi1d7l7/start.

Groninger Library arts and crafts Visit the Groninger Library and enjoy free arts and crafts Saturday from 3 to 4 p.m. Fun for all ages; materials will be provided.

The library is located at Bldg. 1313, Washington Blvd. For more information, call 878-5017.

Volunteer Awards Ceremony The annual Fort Eustis Volunteer Recognition and Awards Ceremony will be April 20 at 1 p.m. at the Fort Eustis Club. Award categories will include SoldierVolunteer of the year, Single Soldier Volunteer of the year, Family Member Volunteer of the year, CivilianVolunteer of the year, Youth Volunteer of the Year, Retiree Volunteer of the Year and Volunteer Family of the Year. All volunteer organizations and units are encouraged to nominate volunteer for these awards.

The Commander’s Gold Award for Community Service will also be presented to a unit or organization on Fort Eustis that has contributed outstanding community service for Fort Eustis and/or the surrounding community.

For more information on award criteria and how to submit nominations, contact Donna Cloy at 878-3129 or email donna.g.cloy.civ@mail.mil.

The deadline for nominations isTuesday.

AFTB events Come join Army FamilyTeam Building on the first and third Wednesday of each month for a series of discussions on various topics. Discussion groups will meet in the Soldier and Family Readiness conference room, Bldg. 650, Monroe Ave. Topics to be discussed in March include: The Volunteer Experience, Wednesday, 9 a.m. to noon; and Military Customs, March 21, 9 a.m. to noon.

For more information, contact Donna Cloy at 878-3129.

•

MARCH 2, 2012

Submit Eustis Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com 13 from 5:15 to 7 p.m. at the Regimental Memorial Chapel, 923 Lee Blvd.

■ 5:15 p.m. —Welcome and dinner is served.

■ 6 to 7 p.m. — Craft and game time for children 3 and a half years and older.

■ 6:10 to 7 p.m. — Adult fellowship time.

Free child-watch care is available after dinner for kids 3 and a half years and younger.

For more information, contact Carole Carkhuff at 218-0871, email carkhuffs2@verizon.net or call the Chapel at 878-1304/1316.

Home buying and selling seminars The Fort Eustis Housing Referral Office will host a Home Buying Seminar on March 13, 6 to 8:30 p.m. and a Home Selling Seminar on March 15, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Both seminars will take place at the Civil Engineer Division conference room in Bldg. 1407, Washington Blvd.

They are free and open to the public. Industry experts will include a realtor, mortgage lender, attorney and home inspector.

Please RSVP at least 3 business days prior to attending the seminar of your choice. To register, call 878-2977/5687/5579.

Relocation readiness program ■ Newcomers Briefing — Tuesday, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Soldiers are highly encouraged to attend. Spouses and civilians are cordially invited.

Come and learn essential information about installation and community resources. The briefing will include prizes, an information fair and optional windshield tour (when available).

■ SponsorshipTraining — March 15, 2 to 3 p.m. Monthly training and information on becoming an effective sponsor will be provided.

■ Multi-cultural Luncheon — March 15, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please bring your favorite potluck dish and learn how to connect families to the military through support and fellowship.

All events are at the Consolidated Support Center, Bldg. 650, Monroe Ave. For more information, contact Polly Craig at 878-2563.

National Prayer Breakfast The annual Fort Eustis National Prayer Breakfast will be March 15 from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the Fort Eustis Club. The guest speaker is retired Chaplain (Col.) David P. Peterson.

Please see your unit chaplains for tickets or contact the Regimental Memorial Chapel at 878-1316, ext. 228. Suggested donation is $5 for officers and $3 for enlisted Soldiers.

Dinner for families of deployed

Financial readiness classes

Military families experiencing deployment or other duty-related separation are invited to attend a free monthly dinner sponsored by the Fort Eustis Chapel Community on March

Credit Reporting, Scores, and Debt Management, 1st and 3rdTuesday of the month, 9 to 10 a.m.; DevelopingYour Financial Plan, 2nd and 4thTuesday of the month; Financial Read-

iness, March 16, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Retirement Planning, March 20, 5 to 6 p.m.; Managing Your Checking Account/Online Banking, March 22, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.; Savings and Investments, March 27, 5 to 6 p.m.; and Home Buying Seminar, March 28, 4:30 to 7 p.m.

All classes are held in the Soldier and Family Readiness conference room, Bldg. 650, Monroe Ave. To register, call 878-1991/1974.

EFMP Empowerment Hour An Exceptional Family Member Program Empowerment Hour will be held March 26 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Groninger Library, Bldg. 1313, Washington Blvd. Attendees can check-out EFMP library resources and participate in a special activity with the librarian. Carryout snacks will be provided.

To register, call 878-3638/1954 or email marlene.f.cherrye.civ@mail.mil by 4 p.m. on March 22.

Marriage enrichment “Love and Respect,” a Marriage Enrichment Program, is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m.Thursdays through March 29 at the Fort Eustis Regimental Memorial Chapel.This program is for all married couples, regardless of how long you have been married. It is also open to military members whose spouse is elsewhere, spouses of deployed/TDY military and engaged couples.

Free child watch-care will be provided for children up to age 11 years old.

For more information, contact Mike & Carole Carkhuff at 218-1034 or email carkhuffs2@ verizon.net.

LENT, Holy Week Services LENT and Holy Week Catholic Services are scheduled as follows.

■ LentenWeekday Mass — Monday through Wednesday, 11:45 a.m.;Thursday, 5:30 p.m.; Friday, 11:45 a.m.

■ Stations of the Cross and Lenten Community Meal — Tonight, March 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 p.m.

■ LENT Penance Service — March 26, 7 p.m.

■ Palm Sunday Mass — April 1, 9 a.m.

■ HolyThursday (Mass of the Lord’s Supper) — April 5, 7 p.m.

■ Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament — April 5, 8 p.m. to midnight.

■ Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion — April 6, 7 p.m.

■ Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil) — April 7, 7 p.m.

■ Easter Sunday Mass (Mass of the Resurrection) — April 8, 9:30 a.m.

For more information, call the Regimental Memorial Chapel at 878-1316.

Jacobs Theater Schedule Friday, 7 p.m.

No show Saturday, 2 p.m.

RedTails (PG-13) A crew of African-American pilots in the Tuskegee training program, having faced segregation while kept mostly on the ground during World War II, is called into duty under the guidance of Col. A.J. Bullard.

Saturday, 7 p.m.

Underworld Awakening (R) Six months after the events of “Underworld: Evolution,” vampire Selene is captured by humans during “The Purge,” a massive crusade of war to exterminate vampires and lycans after mankind learns of their existence. Humans call them “Non-Humans” and “The infected.”

Twelve years later, human governments had committed genocides to vampires and lycans, killing everything, surviving populations were reduced to being scavengers and guerrillas, and 90 percent of the vampire race was annihilated.

Selene is freed from cryogenic suspension and escapes the medical corporation Antigen. The corporation is trying to make an antidote for the virus that creates vampires and lycans. Selene starts to have strange visions after her escape, which she follows, believing them to be linked to her lover, the vampire-lycan hybrid Michael Corvin.

Sunday, 2 p.m.

No show

Movie synopsis and show time information is available online at www.shopmyexchange. com/ReelTimeTheaters/MoviesLangley.htm.

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

LAFBCommunity National Prayer Breakfast Langley AFB is hosting the 59th National Prayer Breakfast on March 13 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center. The featured speaker will be the Most Reverend Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Archdiocese of Military Services.

Tickets are available at the Langley Chapel Annex, unit chaplains, and first sergeant until Tuesday. The cost is $5 for E-5 and below, or $10 for E-6 and above.

For more information, call the chapel at 764-7847.

Healthy recipe contest Grab your cookbooks and “Get Your Plate in Shape.” Nutritional Medicine is hosting a Healthy Recipe Contest in celebration of National Nutrition Month. Your recipe should follow these guidelines: ■ Cold dish/dessert ■ No added fat or salt ■ At last three grams of fiber ■ And don’t forget – full of flavor!

Submit your recipe to alain.dautruche@ us.af.mil for final approval no later than March 9. Approved recipes will be featured at the Community Center March 23 at noon. The dish earning the most votes wins a prize.

For more information, contact Senior Airman Alain Dautruche at 764-6789.

Commissary tour Kick off National Nutrition Month with the Health and Wellness Center’s Langley Commissary tour on Tuesday from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Learn how to shop better, understand label reading, learn how to do product comparisons, and save money.

Tour groups meet at the commissary; tour is free to all JBLE personnel, but registration is required.

For more information, call the HAWC at 7646321 for scheduling or further information.

Nutritional brown bag To celebrate National Nutrition Month, join the Health and Wellness Center for their Brown Bag Tuesday from 11 a.m. to noon.

Learn how to fuel your body before and after your workout, and much more!

The event is free to all JBLE personnel, but registration is required.

For more information, call the HAWC at 7646321 for scheduling or further information.

Marriage seminar The Langley Chapel presents their ongoing marriage seminar, "A Peacemaking Mission," Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the

•

19

www.peninsulawarrior.com

Submit LAFB Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com Langley Club. Whether you have a good marriage that you want to make better, or you are hanging on by a thread, this marriage seminar can transform your marriage.

The Chapel is sponsoring this one-day event at no cost toTeam JBLE and their families. Come with or without your spouse.

Lunch provided. Open to everyone. (Alternate Duty Location authorized for GS civilians.) Join us for a fun-filled one-day event to connect with your spouse and learn effective ways to have a thrilling marriage. You'll leave with a fresh perspective and step by step details on "A Peacemaking Mission."

Sign-up early to reserve your seat. To register, call 764-7847.

Club 5/6 meeting Langley Club 5/6 is a professional military organization for staff sergeants, including selectees, and technical sergeants. The organization serves as the voice to Langley's senior leadership for all junior enlisted, particularly the junior NCO tier.

The club's next meeting is Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the Langley Club's Enlisted Lounge, Leadership Opportunities room.

For more information, email langleyclub56@ langley.af.mil

Young Adult Bible Study The Langley Chapel will host a Young Adult Bible Study and fellowship every Thursday from 9 to 11 p.m. for dependent family members, ages 18-25, at the Bethel Chapel RE Center. The study will be on, "Who is God,” by Francis Chan. The RE Center is located on 1st Street across from Bethel Chapel.

For more information, call David Rasbold at 764-0992/254-2944.

ANG recruiter office relocation The Air National Guard In-Service Recruiting Office has relocated from the Career Development Center to Bldg. 329 in room 113 on Holly St. Building 329 is located across the street from the Base Civil Engineering Complex.

For more information, contact Master Sgt. Tamika Covington at 764-9995 or email tamika.covington2@langley.af.mil.

AFAS after-hours coverage The American Red Cross will provide emergency Air Force Aid Society after-hours coverage. Note that this is for after-hour emergencies only, and not routine daily financial assistance. The A&FRC will continue to cover AFAS cases during their normal

duty hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Servicemembers seeking emergency financial assistance after duty hours are required to call toll-free 1-877-272-7337, and will be assisted by an American Red Cross representative. Calls for assistance can be made by the requesting service member or first sergeant/commander. After-hours AFAS services are limited to urgent situations that cannot wait for normal duty hours such as electronic-tickets for emergency travel.

For more information, call the A&FRC at 764-3990.

Wednesday morning Bible study Wednesday morning Bible study, sponsored by Military Ministries, is held each Wednesday morning from 6:15 to 7:15 a.m. at the Langley Chapel Annex auditorium. Enjoy great fellowship, insightful Bible topics, relevant Biblical discussion, and strengthened Bible knowledge.

For more information, contact Joe Shirey at 764-5527, William Shirey at william.shirey.ctr@ langley.af.mil or Chuck Macri at 928-7220 or email chuck.macri@militaryministry.org.

SBP and former spouse coverage If you are getting ready to retire and were previously married, it’s a smart idea to review your divorce paperwork prior to making a decision concerning Survivor Benefit Plan, or SBP. Some former spouses will ask for and be granted SBP through official court orders. The language in the court ordered divorce decree must specifically reference Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) and not just “retired pay,” as they are two separate entities. If a retiree is court-ordered to provide SBP-Former Spouse coverage, then a current spouse cannot be covered.

To learn more about SBP and the complexities of Former Spouse coverage, consult with your JBLE SBP counselor at 764-5231 or visit http://militarypay.defense.gov/survivor/sbp/05_cost_fspouse.html (This is a .gov website, and will not ask for any personal information.)

Earn free childcare First Baptist Church Denbigh’s Child Development Center is now accepting registration, and a chance to earn free tuition. Located at 3628 Campbell Road, Newport News, Va. 23602, the CDC’s children are more than 50 percent military. If you recruit for them, one enrollment earns one free week, two enrollments receives two free weeks, and more. For additional information, please call (757) 833-7261.

Langley Theater Schedule Friday, 7 p.m.

Haywire (R) A black ops super soldier seeks payback after she is betrayed and set up during a mission.

Saturday, 2 p.m.

Red Tails (PG-13) A crew of African-American pilots in the Tuskegee training program, having faced segregation while kept mostly on the ground during World War II, are called into duty under the guidance of Col. A.J. Bullard.

Saturday, 7 p.m.

Underworld Awakening (R) Six months after the events of Underworld: Evolution, vampire Selene is captured by humans during “The Purge,” a massive crusade of war to exterminate vampires and lycans after mankind learns of their existence. Humans call them “Non-Humans” and “The infected.”

Twelve years later, human governments had committed genocides to vampires and lycans, killing everything, surviving populations were reduced to being scavengers and guerrillas, and 90 percent of the vampire race was annihilated. Selene is freed from cryogenic suspension and escapes the medical corporation Antigen. The corporation is trying to make an antidote for the virus that creates vampires and lycans. Selene starts to have strange visions after her escape, which she follows, believing them to be linked to her lover, the vampire-lycan hybrid Michael Corvin.

Sunday, 2 p.m.

No show

Movie synopsis and show time information is available online at www.shopmyexchange.com/ReelTimeTheaters/Movies-Langley.htm.

20

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

OutsideTheGate

MARCH 2, 2012

Submit Outside The Gate announcements to pw1@militarynews.com

Peninsula Fine Arts Center ■ Free Admission Weekend — Pfac’s free admission weekend will take place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. ARTventure family activities are scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday (free to Pfac members and children 3 and under). There will be a $2 activity fee for non-members ages 4 and up.

■ Pottery Party — Make simple tableware including tea bowls or appetizer plates at this handbuilding workshop for teens (17 and up) and adults on March 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. No experience is required and all materials will be furnished. Final glaze applications will be discussed in class. The cost is $40 for members and $45 for non-members; class size is limited to 12 students. To register, call 596-8175 or visit www.pfac-va.org.

■ Art After 5 — Come out and enjoy live music, poetry, artist demonstrations and exhibits at Art After 5 on March 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The musical guest will be “Broken Mouth Annie.” Admission is by donation or Pfac membership.

Pfac is located at 101 Museum Dr., in the Mariner’s Museum Park, Newport News. The center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free the first weekend of each month. Regular admission (tickets valid 7 days) is $7.50 (adults); $6 (seniors, students, activeduty military and AAA members); $4 (children ages 6-12); and free for children ages 5 and under.

For more information, call 596-8175 or visit www.pfac-va.org.

Historical Society The Historical and Archaeological Society of Fort Monroe will meet Monday at 11:30 a.m. at the Golden Corral, 1123 W. Mercury Blvd., Hampton. Guest speaker Anna Holloway of the Mariner’s Museum will provide an illustrated discussion on “The Battle of the Ironclads.”

This event is in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the famous naval engagement in Hampton Roads. It is open to the public; reservations are not required.

For more information, call David Johnson at 788-3935.

Langley Yacht Club The Langley Yacht Club will hold its monthly meeting March 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Waters Edge Restaurant, 11 Ivory Gull Crescent, Hampton.

The guest speaker will be Eric Endries, regional director of the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program-District 5. The meeting is open to all who enjoy powerboating, sailing, racing or just being on the water.

For more information, call Gary Herbert at 846-4166.

DAV 5K Walk for Veterans The 2012 5K Walk for Disabled American Veterans will be April 28 at 9 a.m. at Newport News Park, 13564 Jefferson Ave, Newport News. All ages are welcome; however, children 12 years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult.

The registration fee is $25 for registrations received by March 28 and $40 after. Race day registration starts at 7:30 a.m. All walkers will receive a short sleeve monogrammed shirt, goodie bag and admission to the walk.

More information is available at www.virginia.dav.org.

Military Job Fair The Military Affairs Council of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Military Job Fair from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Dr., Hampton. The event is free and open to active-duty military, recently separated military members, retirees, reservists, veterans, DoD civilians and their dependents. Please bring properly prepared resumes and dress in business attire.

The following seminars will be offered: How to Work a Job Fair, 8 and 9 a.m.; How to Negotiate a Salary, 10 a.m.; and Employer Panel, 11 a.m.

For more information, please call Carrice White at 325-8161, email cwhite@vpcc.org or visit www.

MilitaryJobFair.org.

Fort Eustis now has two Installation Status hotline numbers up and running: 878-6181 and 878-6182

MARCH 2, 2012

CloseUp

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

21 www.peninsulawarrior.com

2IIRUG UHOLQTXLVKHV FRPPDQG RI WK 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ %ULJDGH The 597th Transportation Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Allen B. Offord Jr., right, passes the guidon to Col. Charles R. Brown, 597th commander, at Fort Eustis, Feb. 24. Master Sgt. Cedric L. Richardson will accept assumption of command at a later date, after he has gained the rank of sergeant major.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Hawkins

22

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

7KH $JLOH 3URFHVV 1HZ ZD\ RI GRLQJ EXVLQHVV

By Greg Mueller TRADOC

The Army is working diligently toward fundamentally changing the acquisition system, making it faster and better aligned to warfighter needs. Using what officials call the “Agile Process,” the Army believes it will better be able to keep pace with industry and technological advances.

This would accelerate the pace of network modernization to a rate unachievable by traditional acquisition strategies.

The intent of the Agile Process is to procure and integrate systems that meet an operational need or gap and demonstrate success, primarily through Soldier-led evaluations during biannual Network Integration Evaluations, or NIEs. U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s Brigade Modernization Command, in concert with Army Test and Evaluation Command, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology’s, known as ASA(ALT), System of Systems Integration Directorate, and the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, are integrating and assessing developmental and emerging networked and non-networked capabilities to determine their implications across doctrine, organization, training, materiel, leadership, education, personnel and facilities.

During the past decade, the Army has leveraged commercial industry to achieve significant modernization of network capabilities through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan using the flexibility of contingency funding and operational necessity.

However, the challenge now is to define a process that enables success within the current materiel enterprise framework.

With the NIE effort, the Army has established a similar operational environment at Fort Bliss, Texas, and White Sands Missile Range, N.M., supported by laboratory analysis at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., to institute the Agile Process that will introduce and evaluate commercial technologies in a controlled setting.

This phased Agile Process is an effort to procure critical capabilities in a more rapid manner, while ensuring technical maturity and integration synchronization. The ultimate end state of the Agile Process is the NIE, which is designed to procure and align systems that meet a pre-defined operational need or gap and demonstrate success through Soldier-led evaluations.

“The NIE was designed to create efficiencies and minimize unnecessary steps, but also to meet the requirements in theater as well as the rapid change in technology.”

— Brig. Gen. Randal Dragon commander of TRADOC’s Brigade Modernization Command Photo by Staff Sgt. Dana Hill

Lt. Gen. Keith Walker, director of TRADOC’s Army Capabilities Integration Center, told an audience at the recent AUSA Winter Symposium and Exposition that, “A couple years ago, General Pete Chiarelli (former Army vice chief of staff) said we really need to evaluate things differently. All the things that we need to evaluate fall into three different buckets programs of record, capabilities under development and what I’d call emerging capabilities under development. We can evaluate any of these three (during the NIE). It opens lots of doors for the Army.”

Brig. Gen. Randal Dragon, commander of TRADOC’s Brigade Modernization Command, agreed.

“The NIE was designed to create efficiencies and minimize unnecessary steps, but also to meet the requirements in theater as well as the rapid change in technology,” Dragon said. “It could be a system we’ve been developing for a while, or it could be an emerging capability that’s required to meet a Soldier’s need in Afghanistan. This has a wide variety of applications. Most importantly, it helps us keep up with the speed of changes occurring out in the technological arena.”

NIE events assess potential network capabilities in a robust operational environment to determine whether they perform as needed, conform to the network architecture and are interoperable with existing systems. The NIE ensures that the network satisfies the functional requirements of the force, and relieves the end user, the Soldier in the field, of the technology integration burden.

The most important difference of the NIE approach is that the Army will place new and emerging technologies into the hands of Soldiers “early and often” to guide materiel development. This critical feedback is pro-

vided by Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, assigned to the Brigade Modernization Command.

“The new defense strategy causes us to operate over much greater areas than we are used to now,” said Maj. Gen. Genero Del-

larocco, commander of U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command. “What the NIE provides us is an expandable structure — an affordable structure stateside — to test our network, test our goods. Even in this period of austerity, we have to do that because that’s the relevance that we owe to the fight.”

The NIE structure also allows for program adjustments or elimination midstream, which not only produces more relevant end products for the Soldier, but saves experiment funds.

“We went and adjusted (a particular) program after an NIE, because this just didn’t make sense,” said Col. Daniel Hughes, director of Systems of Systems Integration.

“We did this on two other programs at a savings in (the billions of dollars). So with our return on investment for the NIEs, we can probably run years of NIEs based on what we’ve already adjusted in the programs.”

$I3DN )RXQGDWLRQ &RXUVH VFKHGXOHG DW /DQJOH\ LQ 0DUFK

By Senior Airman Jason J. Brown 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Air Combat Command’s International Affairs Directorate will host the Joint Military Intelligence Training Center’s Afghanistan-Pakistan Foundation Course March 5 through 9 at Langley Air Force Base.

The AfPak Foundation Course is an unclassified course designed to provide a basic overview of history, religion, culture and social customs, economics, governance, and security for both Afghanistan and Pakistan. The course seeks to strengthen the participants’ ability to apply cultural factors and critical thinking to analysis, thereby enhancing the student's inputs to decision-makers.

According to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Frederick Gottschalk, AfPak Hands division chief on the Joint Staff, the goal is for students, known as “hands,” to be able to develop close working relationships with Afghan and Pakistani counterparts and determine how their countries operate.

“Air Force hands will attend the course as well as Navy hands, all of whom have

recently returned from a year-long deployment in either Afghanistan or Pakistan,” said Lt. Col. Cheryl Garner, ACC AfPAK Hands Program Manager. “Additionally, other personnel from within Air Combat Command and the 1st Fighter Wing will attend.

“Priority is given to those deploying downrange, so this is a great training opportunity for all, wherein hands recently returned from deployment can meet and share their experiences with those heading to theater soon,” she added.

The AfPak Hands program stood up in September 2009 to develop a cadre of military and senior civilian experts specializing in the complexities of Afghanistan and Pakistan — the language, culture, processes and challenges.

The Foundation Course is part of the Joint Military Intelligence Center’s AfPak Regional Expertise Program, which offers seminars on AfPAK culture and customs, governance, justice and politics, infrastructure and development, and security issues and military organizations. Garner said ACC hopes to host additional program courses later this spring and summer.

MARCH 2, 2012

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

Classifieds TO PLACE AN AD...

BY PHONE:

BY FAX: (757) 853-1634

MILITARY NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA

Call: (757) 222-3990 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Fitness/Spas

Jewelry & Watches

Center4massagetherapy.com Hampton and Newport News Call 757-723-3829

2CT Engagement Ring - Gorgeous Princess cut round baguette 14k yellow gold, size 7.

Store warranty incl. w/purchase - $1500.

757-270-7988

Help Wanted SAVE A LIFE - Make A Difference

Articles For Sale WWII Relics. Retired Vet seeks WWII helmets, medals, daggers, etc. 757-869-1739

Furniture-Household Coffee Table, Haverty's, Elegant, Brand New, Never used, tags still on table, 60'L x 34" W glass top. $300.00, Call 201-803-3482

DIRECTOR OF FIELD OPERATIONS (FT) Peninsula Cleaning Service is seeking an energetic, passionate and career-minded Director of Field Operations. The successful candidate will provide leadership, direction and management for continuous improvement of the standard operating model. College degree preferred, minimum of 10 yrs of management experience working in a Healthcare or Commercial Cleaning environment with high customer/client contact required. Valid DL req', drug screening and acceptable criminal background check. Salary Range: $45-55K Fax Resume to 1-866-408-8912 www.peninsulacleaning.com

BY EMAIL:

PENINSULA WARRIOR adswork@militarynews.com CLASSIFIEDS 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510

For Rent-House (All)

For Rent Seasonal/Vacation

Newport News va., denbigh, 3 bedroom 1.5 bath 1200 square ft ready april 1 7578766266

OBX Rent large 2BR waterside Sunday May 6 May 13 $750 firm Call 871-9676

DONATE LIFE SAVING PLASMA &

BIOMAT PLASMA Help Wanted

BY MAIL:

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

Call for information

FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

For Sale-Home (All)

15 W Mercury Blvd, Hampton VA Accepting New Donors Mon- Sat

Poquoson Beauty!

5 BR/4.5BA. 4144SF. Built in 2001.

Pool. Waterview. $515,000. Gina Black, RE/MAX 757-927-5005

For Rent-House (All) Williamsburg Bluffs, 3BR, 2BA Ranch Home. $1450 month. Call Angela @ Bull Island Realty 757-768-2712.

Hampton, , Lg rm for rent.Single professional military female.$650/mo 757-826-0143

FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE

Campers/RVs For Rent-Rooms

OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

The Raleigh Police Department

Individuals who are interested in applying can go online at www.joinraleighpd.org to find more information about the Raleigh Police Department’s hiring process, as well as download the application which can be mailed directly to the Recruiting Office.

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY

NN-Steeplechase, 3BR,2BA ranch,2 car gar, fenced yd, patio deck & shed, new granite countertops, $1300/mo, avail now. By appt call 757-593-4181

757-726-0501

is currently accepting applications for the upcoming basic police academy that is tentatively scheduled for July 16, 2012.

Call 222-3 990 today!

FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

RECEIVE $145 Compensation Within FOUR Donations

23

www.peninsulawarrior.com

2009 Toy Hauler Raptor RV. MUST SELL...In excellent condition, sleeps 8 adults and 4 children. Stereo/DVD player, 2 Slide outs, Generator, tie down tracks, washer/dryer combo. 39,000K OBO 830-734-1783

LITTLE CREEK FT LEE LANGLEY FT STORY FT MONROE OCEANA LITTLE CREEK

OCEANA FT EUSTIS DAM NECK FT MONROE

We cover the bases.

Call 222-3990 to advertise.

Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!

Can deliver. 877-2075

JANITORIAL OPERATIONS MANAGER (PT) Peninsula Area-Peninsula Cleaning Service is seeking an Operations Manager to join our team. The incumbent will manage corporate and small healthcare accounts. Ideal candidates will have at least 5 yrs of management experience directly relating to commercial cleaning of facility management. Ability to maintain customer satisfaction and good public relations. Valid DL req', drug screening and acceptable criminal background check.

Shift: 5:30p-10:30p Fax Resume to 1-866-408-8912 or Call 757-833-1603 www.peninsulacleaning.com

Babysitting & Childcare Affordable, caring, dependable child care Ft. Eustis/Denbigh area. Army wife, bilingual, expd, excellent references, nights avail 757-320-0189

Free!

Denbigh area, off Harpersville Rd. In home childcare avail, Mon-Fri, 6am-6pm, accepting newborns5 yrs, activities included, $100/wk. 757-596-1728

Get online!

Submit your classified ad and advertise for FREE Restrictions do apply see below for details

Qualifications:

ADVERTISERS Buy 4 wks get a 5th wk FREE

$6.09/line – 3 lines min.

5 Weeks only $73.08.

A Savings of $18.27

Fast!

Easy!

Classifieds deadline: Thursday, 5 pm, Call us for additional details and specials 75 7 - 2 2 2 - 3 9 8 2 ‫ ׀‬7 5 7 -222-3983

Stay Informed! www.militarynews.com

Submit online at: www.forteustiswheel.com/free

•

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.

Restrictions: • Only 5 ads per week, per household • 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.)

WE DO NOT ACCEPT CALLS FOR FREE CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline Thursday, 5 p.m. for the following week’s publications

24

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

MARCH 2, 2012

NO PROBLEM!

NO CREDIT?

NEED CREDIT?

MARCH

SLAM DUNK SPECIAL BUY

55� LCD HD TV

33

“CONTEMPO� 4-PIECE BEDROOM SET

7:,&( 0217+/<

Includes queen bed, dresser, mirror and nightstand.

$

34

$

Twice Monthly*

TIRES AND RIMS

SPECIAL PRICING! See store for details

1 CT. T.W. Diamond Flower Earrings**

$39 7:,&( 0217+/<

26

$

Twice Monthly*

COMPUTERS starting at

$

17 7:,&( 0217+/<

Samsung, Toshiba, Asus, Apple, HP

½ CT. T.W. Three Stone Diamond Bridal Ring**

GAMING SYSTEMS starting at

$

9

7:,&( 0217+/<

PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, XBOX 360

WHY RENT WHEN YOU CAN OWN? SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE â&#x20AC;˘ QUALITY MERCHANDISE â&#x20AC;˘ IMMEDIATE DELIVERY â&#x20AC;˘ PAYROLL AND ALLOTMENT EXPERTS â&#x20AC;˘ POWER OF ATTORNEY ACCEPTED VIRGINIA BEACH - 3320 HOLLAND RD. 757-368-1800 / 1-866-705-6767 / NORFOLK - 7734 HAMPTON BLVD. 757-451-1100 / 1-800-825-3080 NEWPORT NEWS - 451 ORIANA RD. 757-877-8577 / 1-866-877-2877 3D\PHQWV OLVWHG DUH H[DPSOHV RQO\ DQG DUH EDVHG RQ ]HUR GRZQ SD\PHQW DW $35 IRU PRQWKV ZLWK DSSURYHG FUHGLW WD[HV DQG DQ\ GHOLYHU\ DQG LQVWDOODWLRQ FKDUJHV QRW LQFOXGHG 7R FDOFXODWH WKH WRWDO FRVW RI ÂżQDQFLQJ VLPSO\ PXOWLSO\ WKH SD\PHQW DPRXQW E\ 2WKHU ÂżQDQFLQJ UDWHV DQG WHUPV DUH DYDLODEOH ZLWK DSSURYHG FUHGLW DQG GLIIHU GHSHQGLQJ RQ WKH VWDWH ZKHUH SXUFKDVHG -HZHOU\ LV HQODUJHG WR VKRZ GHWDLO DQG PD\ QRW DOZD\V EH H[DFWO\ DV VKRZQ ,WHPV VKRZQ PD\ QRW UHSUHVHQW LWHPV LQ VWRFN /LPLWHG WLPH RIIHU QR VXEVWLWXWLRQV OLPLWHG TXDQWLWLHV 2IIHU H[SLUHV 6HH VWRUH IRU GHWDLOV :KLOH VXSSOLHV ODVW