About 300 patients are moving to the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., as Walter Reed prepares to close it's doors.
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The skin condition psoriasis may increase the risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation, a condition in which the heart beats irregularly, a new Danish study says.
The findings add to a growing body of research linking psoriasis with heart and blood vessel problems, including an increased risk of heart attack and death from cardiovascular disease.
"In recent years, psoriasis has certainly taken the step from a disease affecting appearance to a systemic disease and cardiovascular risk factor," said study researcher Dr. Ole Ahlehoff, a cardiologist at Copenhagen University Hospital Gentofte.
Patients with psoriasis should be monitored for indicators of cardiovascular disease, including heart arrhythmias, Ahleoffsaid.
And these patients may be candidates for interventions that will reduce cardiovascular disease risk, including lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking and getting more exercise, and in some cases, medications, Ahlehoff said.
Future studies should investigate whether treating psoriasis reduces patients' cardiovascular disease risk, he said.
Psoriasis and the heart
Psoriasis is common and causes skin redness and irritation, according to the National Institutes of Health. In those with the condition, skin cells rise to the skin's surface too quickly, which doesn't leave enough time for the old skin cells to fall off, leading to build up of dead skin cells. The condition may be triggered by abnormal signals from the body's immune system.
Ahlehoff and colleagues counted the cases of atrial fibrillation and ischemic stroke in the entire adult and adolescent population of Denmark — about 4.5 million people — from 1997 to 2006, using a national database. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel to the brain becomes blocked.
The researchers identified about 36,700 patients with mild psoriasis and about 2,800 with serve psoriasis during that time period.
Patients younger than 50 with psoriasis had about a 3-fold increased risk of atrial fibrillation, and a 2.8-fold risk of stroke, compared with those who didn't have psoriasis. Older patients and those with mild psoriasis had a smaller, but still significant, increase in their risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation.
The results held even after the researchers took into account factors that could affect the findings, including age, gender, medical treatment and procedures, and level of income.
Behind the link
Psoriasis patients are thought to be at increased risk for cardiovascular disease for two reasons, said Dr. Robert Kirsner, a professor of dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, who was not involved with the new study.
One is that, as a group, they tend to have more cardiovascular risk factors, including obesity, smoking and high lipid levels.
The other is that an increase in inflammation in the body links the conditions, Kirsner said.
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease, or a condition in which the immune system is in a constant state of alert, Ahlehoff said. This type of inflammation is also thought to play a role in stroke and atrial fibrillation, Ahlehoff said.
Kirsner said the study provides additional support for inflammation as being a factor in psoriasis that increases patients' vascular disease risk.
The study was published online Aug. 12 in the European Heart Journal.
Pass it on: A growing body of research suggests psoriasis is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
By Rachael Rettner
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta on Friday sought to reassure today’s troops that their benefits will not be slashed amid widespread budget-cutting talks in Washington.
In an interview with Military Times in his Pentagon office, Panetta said he wants to grandfather today’s retirement pensions for current troops, even if budget pressures force changes for future recruits.
“People who have come into the service and put their lives on the line, been deployed to the war zones, fought for this country, and who have been promised certain benefits as result of that — I’m not going to break faith with what’s been promised to them,” Panetta said. “Now, does that mean that stops you from making any changes? No, because obviously you can grandfather people in terms of their benefits, and then look at what changes you want put in place for those who decide to become a part of the volunteer force in the future.”
Panetta said he expects to review that proposal next month when the formal recommendation reaches his desk. But he expressed support for the Defense Business Board’s idea that troops who separate before reaching the 20-year mark should receive some partial retirement benefit.
“A lot of our military leaves and they don’t take a lot with them. … They are not vested in any way,” Panetta said, referring to the roughly 83 percent of troops who separate before qualifying for retirement benefits.
“The question that I think is legitimate to at least ask is … for those future volunteers, is there a way to kind of shape this that might give them a little better protection in terms of being able to have some retirement and being able to take it with them?” Panetta said.
Panetta said he views that move as a signal of political consensus in Baghdad that will ultimately lead to a troop extension.
“My view is that they finally did say yes,” the secretary said.
But it remains unclear how many of the roughly 44,000 U.S. troops in Iraq today will stay and what their mission will be.
“The issue then becomes what is the kind of training assistance presence that Iraq feels it needs in order to defend itself and secure itself,” Panetta said.
“The likelihood is that we are going to face some other crises,” Panetta said. “If the ‘Arab spring’ has told us anything, it is that we are dealing with an awful lot of turmoil in a very complicated part of the world.”
But don’t expect any boots on the ground in Libya, Panetta said. Asked whether the Pentagon was planning for any U.S. troops to go into Libya, where U.S. aircraft are currently assisting in NATO operations, Panetta said, “No, not at all.”
“It’s a fair bet that we are going to continue to confront threats in the world, that we are going to have to continue operations against terrorists, that we are going to have to continue to maintain a much more limited presence both with regards to Iraq, and as well as Afghanistan,” he said. “If you add to that the need to continue to project our force in the world, to be able to show a presence in the world, particularly in the Pacific to check whatever happens with regard to China and obviously maintain a continued presence with regard to North Korea and the Koran peninsula.
“I do support what Secretary Gates tried to do,” Panetta said. “It’s appropriate that, especially with tight budgets … that people contribute a little more with regards to getting that coverage.
“I’m not going to say I’m going to target health care,” he added. “But it is, for me, part and parcel of all of the areas that we have to talk about as we decide, you know, what our Defense Department is going to look like, not just now, but … five and 10 years down the road.”
By Andrew Tilghman - Staff writer Navy Times
In an interview with Military Times in his Pentagon office, Panetta said he wants to grandfather today’s retirement pensions for current troops, even if budget pressures force changes for future recruits.
“People who have come into the service and put their lives on the line, been deployed to the war zones, fought for this country, and who have been promised certain benefits as result of that — I’m not going to break faith with what’s been promised to them,” Panetta said. “Now, does that mean that stops you from making any changes? No, because obviously you can grandfather people in terms of their benefits, and then look at what changes you want put in place for those who decide to become a part of the volunteer force in the future.”
Panetta said he expects to review that proposal next month when the formal recommendation reaches his desk. But he expressed support for the Defense Business Board’s idea that troops who separate before reaching the 20-year mark should receive some partial retirement benefit.
“A lot of our military leaves and they don’t take a lot with them. … They are not vested in any way,” Panetta said, referring to the roughly 83 percent of troops who separate before qualifying for retirement benefits.
“The question that I think is legitimate to at least ask is … for those future volunteers, is there a way to kind of shape this that might give them a little better protection in terms of being able to have some retirement and being able to take it with them?” Panetta said.
Staying in Iraq
On other issues, Panetta expects some U.S. troops to stay in Iraq beyond December’s planned withdrawal date. Panetta visited Baghdad in July and said publicly that the Iraqis should “damn it, make a decision” about whether they want U.S. troops to stay into 2012. The Iraqi government has since agreed to enter formal negotiations for a possible troop presence.Panetta said he views that move as a signal of political consensus in Baghdad that will ultimately lead to a troop extension.
“My view is that they finally did say yes,” the secretary said.
But it remains unclear how many of the roughly 44,000 U.S. troops in Iraq today will stay and what their mission will be.
“The issue then becomes what is the kind of training assistance presence that Iraq feels it needs in order to defend itself and secure itself,” Panetta said.
Troops to keep busy
Panetta, who took office almost a decade after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, said troops should plan on a continued high operational tempo over the next decade as the military faces continued threats.“The likelihood is that we are going to face some other crises,” Panetta said. “If the ‘Arab spring’ has told us anything, it is that we are dealing with an awful lot of turmoil in a very complicated part of the world.”
But don’t expect any boots on the ground in Libya, Panetta said. Asked whether the Pentagon was planning for any U.S. troops to go into Libya, where U.S. aircraft are currently assisting in NATO operations, Panetta said, “No, not at all.”
“It’s a fair bet that we are going to continue to confront threats in the world, that we are going to have to continue operations against terrorists, that we are going to have to continue to maintain a much more limited presence both with regards to Iraq, and as well as Afghanistan,” he said. “If you add to that the need to continue to project our force in the world, to be able to show a presence in the world, particularly in the Pacific to check whatever happens with regard to China and obviously maintain a continued presence with regard to North Korea and the Koran peninsula.
Tackling health care costs
On health care benefits, Panetta said he supports the efforts of his predecessor, Robert Gates, to reform the Tricare health system, which included raising some Tricare fees on working-age retirees.“I do support what Secretary Gates tried to do,” Panetta said. “It’s appropriate that, especially with tight budgets … that people contribute a little more with regards to getting that coverage.
“I’m not going to say I’m going to target health care,” he added. “But it is, for me, part and parcel of all of the areas that we have to talk about as we decide, you know, what our Defense Department is going to look like, not just now, but … five and 10 years down the road.”
By Andrew Tilghman - Staff writer Navy Times
In his clearest statement on the subject to date, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said today that if the military retirement system changes, it will not affect serving service members.
“I will not break faith,” the secretary said during a roundtable meeting with military media representatives in the Pentagon.
Panetta’s predecessor, Robert M. Gates, asked the Defense Business Board to look at the military retirement system and make recommendations. The final report is due later this month, but Panetta said he is familiar with the outlines of the proposal.
“I certainly haven’t made any decisions” on retirement, he said.
“People who have come into the service, who have put their lives on the line, who have been deployed to the war zones, who fought for this country, who have been promised certain benefits for that -- I’m not going to break faith with what’s been promised to them,” Panetta said.
People in the service today will come under the current retirement system, which gives retirees 50 percent of their base pay after 20 years of service.
“Does that stop you from making changes?” Panetta asked. “No, because obviously you can ‘grandfather’ people in terms of their benefits and then look at what changes you want to put in place for people who become members of the all-volunteer force in the future.”
One aspect of the retirement issue is one of fairness, the secretary said. Most service members do not spend 20 years in the military and therefore do not get any retirement benefits when they leave the service.
“They are not vested in any way,” Panetta said. “The question that is at least legitimate to ask is, ‘Is there a way for those future volunteers to shape this that might give them better protection to be able to have some retirement and take it with them?’”
Health care is another area that has to be dealt with, the secretary said. In fiscal 2001, the DOD health care bill was $19 billion. It is more than $50 billion now, he said, and it soars to the neighborhood of $60 billion in future years. Among proposals Congress is contemplating is an increase in some TRICARE military health plan premium payments.
“I think those recommendations make sense,” Panetta said. “Especially with tight budgets, it does make sense that people contribute a bit more with regards to getting that coverage.”
The Defense Department -- which is responsible for a large part of the nation’s discretionary budget -- will do its part to reduce the budget deficit, the secretary said. But while Defense has a role to play, he added, Congress has to deal with the more than two-thirds of the federal budget that represents the mandatory spending.
“If you are serious about getting the deficit down,” Panetta said, “you have to deal with the mandatory side of the budget and taxes.”
DOD has a responsibility to look at all aspects of the budget, the secretary said, and officials at the Pentagon are doing that.
“This is not because it is necessarily going to hurt areas,” he added, “because frankly, a lot of this can be done through efficiencies, a lot of it can be done looking at the administrative side of the programs: what can we do to make these programs more efficient?”
The secretary said he believes the budget crunch can represent an opportunity to make DOD a more efficient, effective and agile force that still can deal with the threats of the future.
The department also needs to ask how to provide benefits for troops and their families that will be effective at ensuring the nation always has a strong volunteer force, Panetta said.
“That’s a debate and discussion that it’s important for the Defense Department to have, the White House to have, the Congress to have and the country to have,” he said. “[We] need to have that debate about ‘How are we going to do this in a way that maintains the best military in the world?’”
The Defense Department will face some tough choices, Panetta acknowledged.
“I think the bottom line is this can be an opportunity to shape something very effective for the future that can still represent the best defense system in the world,” he said.
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
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Panetta’s predecessor, Robert M. Gates, asked the Defense Business Board to look at the military retirement system and make recommendations. The final report is due later this month, but Panetta said he is familiar with the outlines of the proposal.
“I certainly haven’t made any decisions” on retirement, he said.
“People who have come into the service, who have put their lives on the line, who have been deployed to the war zones, who fought for this country, who have been promised certain benefits for that -- I’m not going to break faith with what’s been promised to them,” Panetta said.
People in the service today will come under the current retirement system, which gives retirees 50 percent of their base pay after 20 years of service.
“Does that stop you from making changes?” Panetta asked. “No, because obviously you can ‘grandfather’ people in terms of their benefits and then look at what changes you want to put in place for people who become members of the all-volunteer force in the future.”
One aspect of the retirement issue is one of fairness, the secretary said. Most service members do not spend 20 years in the military and therefore do not get any retirement benefits when they leave the service.
“They are not vested in any way,” Panetta said. “The question that is at least legitimate to ask is, ‘Is there a way for those future volunteers to shape this that might give them better protection to be able to have some retirement and take it with them?’”
Health care is another area that has to be dealt with, the secretary said. In fiscal 2001, the DOD health care bill was $19 billion. It is more than $50 billion now, he said, and it soars to the neighborhood of $60 billion in future years. Among proposals Congress is contemplating is an increase in some TRICARE military health plan premium payments.
“I think those recommendations make sense,” Panetta said. “Especially with tight budgets, it does make sense that people contribute a bit more with regards to getting that coverage.”
The Defense Department -- which is responsible for a large part of the nation’s discretionary budget -- will do its part to reduce the budget deficit, the secretary said. But while Defense has a role to play, he added, Congress has to deal with the more than two-thirds of the federal budget that represents the mandatory spending.
“If you are serious about getting the deficit down,” Panetta said, “you have to deal with the mandatory side of the budget and taxes.”
DOD has a responsibility to look at all aspects of the budget, the secretary said, and officials at the Pentagon are doing that.
“This is not because it is necessarily going to hurt areas,” he added, “because frankly, a lot of this can be done through efficiencies, a lot of it can be done looking at the administrative side of the programs: what can we do to make these programs more efficient?”
The secretary said he believes the budget crunch can represent an opportunity to make DOD a more efficient, effective and agile force that still can deal with the threats of the future.
The department also needs to ask how to provide benefits for troops and their families that will be effective at ensuring the nation always has a strong volunteer force, Panetta said.
“That’s a debate and discussion that it’s important for the Defense Department to have, the White House to have, the Congress to have and the country to have,” he said. “[We] need to have that debate about ‘How are we going to do this in a way that maintains the best military in the world?’”
The Defense Department will face some tough choices, Panetta acknowledged.
“I think the bottom line is this can be an opportunity to shape something very effective for the future that can still represent the best defense system in the world,” he said.
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
“Don’t give up on the mission” is the message he gets from service members when he meets them, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said here today.
Speaking with military reporters during a roundtable discussion in his Pentagon office this morning, Panetta evoked meetings he has had with service members in Iraq and Afghanistan and at various bases in the United States since taking office July 1.
He has visited with wounded warriors in the Washington area hospitals, he said, and he is impressed with their resilience. “[When I look] at the sacrifices they have made and I see their resilience – I mean, they fought for this country and now they have to sort of fight for themselves,” he said. “It’s that kind of energy and attitude that is inspiring.”
The main message he gets from service members and their families, though, is “don’t give up on the mission,” the secretary said.
“In other words: ‘[Given] the sacrifices we’ve gone through, whether in Iraq or Afghanistan or any place else, just make sure we continue the mission and get the job done,’” Panetta said.
“What they want to know,” he added, “is that whatever they’ve been through and what sacrifices they’ve made, in the end it has been worthwhile in terms of defending their country.”
Panetta has been in office almost two months, and he comes in during challenging times.
“I’ve got to deal with two wars, a NATO mission in Libya and the war on terror,” he said. “As effective as our efforts have been to try to weaken al-Qaida, the fact is they remain a threat to this country, and we have to continue to put pressure on them.”
Taking on al-Qaida and similar groups means continuing pressure not only in Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan, but also in places where nodes of terrorism have sprouted, such as in Yemen and Somalia, Panetta said, while also paying attention to Iran and North Korea – rogue nations that are trying to attain a nuclear capability.
The secretary also is stressing a whole new battlefield in the cyber realm. Hackers – or possibly countries – attack DOD networks hundreds or thousands of times a day, he noted. “Cyber is the battlefield of the future, and we don’t pay enough attention to that threat,” he said.
Rising powers in the world – such as China, India and Brazil -- and continuing relations with Russia also require attention, Panetta said. “We have to do everything possible to ensure they represent a force for stability in the world, and not instability,” he explained.
And all this happens as the United States is facing serious budget concerns.
“Based on my own budget experience, I don’t think you have to choose between national defense and fiscal responsibility,” the secretary said. “Within the resources Congress has provided, I think we can meet those responsibilities.”
Panetta said DOD must protect its core national security interests, maintain the best military in the world, and not break faith with service members and their families.
“America has a special place in the world [through] our military power [and] our diplomatic capabilities, but more importantly, our values and our freedoms,” he said. My job is to make sure that we maintain that special place for America in the world. The only way I can do that is to maintain the core strength that is really behind our military power, which is the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect this country.
“In the end,” he continued, “there are a lot of pretty technological weapons from bombers to fighter planes to submarines, … but none of that is worth much without men and women who are willing to defend this country.”
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Speaking with military reporters during a roundtable discussion in his Pentagon office this morning, Panetta evoked meetings he has had with service members in Iraq and Afghanistan and at various bases in the United States since taking office July 1.
He has visited with wounded warriors in the Washington area hospitals, he said, and he is impressed with their resilience. “[When I look] at the sacrifices they have made and I see their resilience – I mean, they fought for this country and now they have to sort of fight for themselves,” he said. “It’s that kind of energy and attitude that is inspiring.”
The main message he gets from service members and their families, though, is “don’t give up on the mission,” the secretary said.
“In other words: ‘[Given] the sacrifices we’ve gone through, whether in Iraq or Afghanistan or any place else, just make sure we continue the mission and get the job done,’” Panetta said.
“What they want to know,” he added, “is that whatever they’ve been through and what sacrifices they’ve made, in the end it has been worthwhile in terms of defending their country.”
Panetta has been in office almost two months, and he comes in during challenging times.
“I’ve got to deal with two wars, a NATO mission in Libya and the war on terror,” he said. “As effective as our efforts have been to try to weaken al-Qaida, the fact is they remain a threat to this country, and we have to continue to put pressure on them.”
Taking on al-Qaida and similar groups means continuing pressure not only in Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan, but also in places where nodes of terrorism have sprouted, such as in Yemen and Somalia, Panetta said, while also paying attention to Iran and North Korea – rogue nations that are trying to attain a nuclear capability.
The secretary also is stressing a whole new battlefield in the cyber realm. Hackers – or possibly countries – attack DOD networks hundreds or thousands of times a day, he noted. “Cyber is the battlefield of the future, and we don’t pay enough attention to that threat,” he said.
Rising powers in the world – such as China, India and Brazil -- and continuing relations with Russia also require attention, Panetta said. “We have to do everything possible to ensure they represent a force for stability in the world, and not instability,” he explained.
And all this happens as the United States is facing serious budget concerns.
“Based on my own budget experience, I don’t think you have to choose between national defense and fiscal responsibility,” the secretary said. “Within the resources Congress has provided, I think we can meet those responsibilities.”
Panetta said DOD must protect its core national security interests, maintain the best military in the world, and not break faith with service members and their families.
“America has a special place in the world [through] our military power [and] our diplomatic capabilities, but more importantly, our values and our freedoms,” he said. My job is to make sure that we maintain that special place for America in the world. The only way I can do that is to maintain the core strength that is really behind our military power, which is the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect this country.
“In the end,” he continued, “there are a lot of pretty technological weapons from bombers to fighter planes to submarines, … but none of that is worth much without men and women who are willing to defend this country.”
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
About 200 outpatient wounded warriors are expected to move from Walter Reed Army Medical Center here this weekend to the nearby National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., as the two hospitals move closer to becoming one.
More than 100 inpatients will move from Walter Reed’s wards to Bethesda by ambulance Aug. 28, and the flag will be lowered for good at the 102-year-old Army hospital.
Also as part of the changes in military health care facilities in the national capital region mandated by the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 2005, some of Walter Reed’s functions, patients and staff are moving to the newly expanded DeWitt Army Community Hospital on Fort Belvoir, Va.
After the Army and Navy hospitals merge, the Bethesda campus will be renamed as Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Walter Reed’s era of caring for privates to presidents has spanned both world wars, the Korean conflict, Vietnam and the return of prisoners of war, and the decade-long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. At a recent transition ceremony, military medical leaders reflected on Walter Reed’s history as the Army’s flagship of medicine.
“It is bittersweet that we are marking an ending to mark a new beginning at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center,” said Army Col. Norvell V. “Van” Coots, commander of Walter Reed’s health care system. “You can go anywhere in the world, and … people who don’t speak English know the words ‘Walter Reed.’ To me, that’s how you define ‘iconic.’”
Built for 80 inpatients in 1909 under a single roof in a Georgian-brick building, the former Walter Reed General Hospital eventually became the bustling medical campus it is today, with 72 buildings on a 113-acre plot of land, closely surrounded by a neighborhood in the upper-northwest quadrant of the nation’s capital.
“[There was] no room to expand and meet the changing demands of the complexity of the wounded warriors,” Coots said. “The room was found on the grounds of the naval hospital in Bethesda,” he said.
Standing ready for Walter Reed’s patients are the newly dedicated Wounded Warriors Barracks and Wounded Warriors Complex, dedicated two weeks ago at Bethesda.
Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, Army surgeon general and a former Walter Reed commander, called the transition a time to celebrate the “history of this great campus, and to celebrate unquestionable high-quality care” in the course of its lengthy history.
Navy Rear Adm. Matthew L. Nathan, National Naval Medical Center commander, said he looks forward to the quality of care the merger will provide.
“We recognize, as teammates, to … take Walter Reed and the National Naval Medical Center and forge [an] integrated staff and facilities to become the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda,” he said. “The synergy and partnership that that creates will [provide] the highest, most pristine medicine.”
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service
More than 100 inpatients will move from Walter Reed’s wards to Bethesda by ambulance Aug. 28, and the flag will be lowered for good at the 102-year-old Army hospital.
Also as part of the changes in military health care facilities in the national capital region mandated by the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 2005, some of Walter Reed’s functions, patients and staff are moving to the newly expanded DeWitt Army Community Hospital on Fort Belvoir, Va.
After the Army and Navy hospitals merge, the Bethesda campus will be renamed as Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Walter Reed’s era of caring for privates to presidents has spanned both world wars, the Korean conflict, Vietnam and the return of prisoners of war, and the decade-long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. At a recent transition ceremony, military medical leaders reflected on Walter Reed’s history as the Army’s flagship of medicine.
“It is bittersweet that we are marking an ending to mark a new beginning at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center,” said Army Col. Norvell V. “Van” Coots, commander of Walter Reed’s health care system. “You can go anywhere in the world, and … people who don’t speak English know the words ‘Walter Reed.’ To me, that’s how you define ‘iconic.’”
Built for 80 inpatients in 1909 under a single roof in a Georgian-brick building, the former Walter Reed General Hospital eventually became the bustling medical campus it is today, with 72 buildings on a 113-acre plot of land, closely surrounded by a neighborhood in the upper-northwest quadrant of the nation’s capital.
“[There was] no room to expand and meet the changing demands of the complexity of the wounded warriors,” Coots said. “The room was found on the grounds of the naval hospital in Bethesda,” he said.
Standing ready for Walter Reed’s patients are the newly dedicated Wounded Warriors Barracks and Wounded Warriors Complex, dedicated two weeks ago at Bethesda.
Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, Army surgeon general and a former Walter Reed commander, called the transition a time to celebrate the “history of this great campus, and to celebrate unquestionable high-quality care” in the course of its lengthy history.
Navy Rear Adm. Matthew L. Nathan, National Naval Medical Center commander, said he looks forward to the quality of care the merger will provide.
“We recognize, as teammates, to … take Walter Reed and the National Naval Medical Center and forge [an] integrated staff and facilities to become the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda,” he said. “The synergy and partnership that that creates will [provide] the highest, most pristine medicine.”
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service
The U.S. Army, in conjunction with Stewart-Haas Racing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and Don Schumacher Racing in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series, will run special paint schemes honoring the men and women who served in the Vietnam War on the Soldiers’ race cars during Veterans Day weekend.
In honor of these Veterans’ service and sacrifice, who served during the conflict that started 50 years ago, selected photos will be featured on the hood, trunk, side panels and bumpers when Ryan Newman gets behind the wheel of the No. 39 U.S. Army Chevrolet at the Nov. 13 Kobalt Tools 500k NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway.
Tony “The Sarge” Schumacher’s U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster will don the custom paint scheme when he straps in at Pomona, Calif., for the Nov. 13 Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals.
Beginning today, Vietnam Army Veterans, along with their families, friends and loved ones, can go online and submit photos of the men and women who have embraced the call of duty and helped build and protect our country at www.goarmy.com/yourphotohere. All Vietnam veterans shown in uniform are eligible for inclusion among the photos in the special paint scheme. Images will be collected through Sept. 16.
“What a cool way for us to say ‘thank you’ and honor the Vietnam Veterans,” said Newman, a 15-time NASCAR Sprint Cup race winner. “History tells us that many who served in Southeast Asia were not properly recognized upon their return. It will be our sincere privilege to commemorate the Army Strong Vietnam Soldiers who fought bravely for democracy.”
For seven-time NHRA champion Schumacher, driving the U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster is always a powerful reminder of what it means to be Army Strong.
“It’s truly inspiring to represent our Soldiers who served in Vietnam,” Schumacher said. “Many of the Vietnam veterans are drag-racing fans who grew up at the height of the muscle-car and hot-rod era. We see many Vietnam vets at our NHRA races, and that’s why this paint scheme will carry a special meaning for our U.S. Army team.”
The special paint scheme will serve as an extension of Veterans Day (Nov. 11) when, as a country, we honor and remember the heroism, courage and dedication displayed by our Veterans. While the nation remembers the service of its veterans, the millions at home and at the track watching Newman and Schumacher will get a chance to see some of the faces who represent true heroes.
“Every time these guys drive with the Army colors, they represent the more than one million men and women who proudly serve our nation,” said John Myers, director of Strategic Communications and Outreach, U.S. Army Accessions Command. “For these races, with these paint schemes, we pay tribute and say thank you to our Vietnam heroes as well as all past and present Soldiers and their families. Each picture, each face, is a reminder of the sacrifice and service of the millions who have made our Army strong and our nation free.”
August 15, 2011
By Brian Israel, U.S. Army Racing
The Army announced today the award of two contracts to BAE Systems Land and Armaments, L.P., Troy, Mich. ($449,964,969), and General Dynamics Land Systems, Inc., Sterling Heights, Mich. ($439,715,950), for the Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV) program technology development phase. These contractors have been selected to develop competitive, affordable and executable designs for a new Army Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) over the next 24 months.
The contract awards follow the Department of Defense’s formal approval of the GCV program to enter the technology development phase. Approval of this first major milestone builds on months of ongoing collaboration between the Army and the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) to successfully develop, build and field an affordable, effective and suitable IFV.
“The Army enthusiastically welcomes the formal launch of the Ground Combat Vehicle program, which will provide much needed protection and mobility to soldiers in combat,” said Secretary of the Army John McHugh. “Given the economic environment the nation currently faces, the Army recognizes that it is imperative to continually address requirements as we build a versatile, yet affordable, next-generation infantry fighting vehicle.”
The department’s GCV acquisition strategy, which emphasizes affordability and a seven-year schedule, calls for aggressive exploration of GCV IFV capabilities trade-space via continued requirements and affordability analysis during the 24-month technology development phase. As the Army finalizes GCV requirements during this phase of the formal acquisition process, these efforts will enable the Army to realize program schedule and affordability objectives. The Army remains committed to a seven-year schedule as the appropriate amount of time necessary to design, develop, build and test the next-generation infantry fighting vehicle.
To develop a successful program with well-informed decision points at each major milestone, the Army will undertake a three-pronged approach during the first phase of this effort. First, contractors will work collaboratively with the Army to develop competitive, best-value engineering designs to meet critical Army needs. Concurrently, the Army will initiate an update to its GCV IFV analysis of alternatives and conduct separate technical and operational assessment of existing non-developmental vehicles. Results from this assessment, along with contractors design efforts, will inform GCV requirements to support the next program milestone and facilitate a full and open competition for the next phase of the GCV program.
“This is an important milestone in our Army's modernization program. GCV is the first combat vehicle designed from inception for an IED environment. It will provide armor protection and the capability to maneuver cross-country with the nine-man infantry squad." said Army Chief of Staff Gen. Martin E. Dempsey.
The Army’s overall strategy for developing GCV is consistent with efforts to implement acquisition reform and best acquisition practices.
For more information please contact Lt. Col. Dave Gercken, 703-697-7592 (david.gercken@conus.army.mil), or Matt Hickman (matthew.d.hickman@us.army.mil), 703-614-1522.
The contract awards follow the Department of Defense’s formal approval of the GCV program to enter the technology development phase. Approval of this first major milestone builds on months of ongoing collaboration between the Army and the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) to successfully develop, build and field an affordable, effective and suitable IFV.
“The Army enthusiastically welcomes the formal launch of the Ground Combat Vehicle program, which will provide much needed protection and mobility to soldiers in combat,” said Secretary of the Army John McHugh. “Given the economic environment the nation currently faces, the Army recognizes that it is imperative to continually address requirements as we build a versatile, yet affordable, next-generation infantry fighting vehicle.”
The department’s GCV acquisition strategy, which emphasizes affordability and a seven-year schedule, calls for aggressive exploration of GCV IFV capabilities trade-space via continued requirements and affordability analysis during the 24-month technology development phase. As the Army finalizes GCV requirements during this phase of the formal acquisition process, these efforts will enable the Army to realize program schedule and affordability objectives. The Army remains committed to a seven-year schedule as the appropriate amount of time necessary to design, develop, build and test the next-generation infantry fighting vehicle.
To develop a successful program with well-informed decision points at each major milestone, the Army will undertake a three-pronged approach during the first phase of this effort. First, contractors will work collaboratively with the Army to develop competitive, best-value engineering designs to meet critical Army needs. Concurrently, the Army will initiate an update to its GCV IFV analysis of alternatives and conduct separate technical and operational assessment of existing non-developmental vehicles. Results from this assessment, along with contractors design efforts, will inform GCV requirements to support the next program milestone and facilitate a full and open competition for the next phase of the GCV program.
“This is an important milestone in our Army's modernization program. GCV is the first combat vehicle designed from inception for an IED environment. It will provide armor protection and the capability to maneuver cross-country with the nine-man infantry squad." said Army Chief of Staff Gen. Martin E. Dempsey.
The Army’s overall strategy for developing GCV is consistent with efforts to implement acquisition reform and best acquisition practices.
For more information please contact Lt. Col. Dave Gercken, 703-697-7592 (david.gercken@conus.army.mil), or Matt Hickman (matthew.d.hickman@us.army.mil), 703-614-1522.
U.S. Army officials say although some tests like fungus and altitude levels were waived, the delay in testing were done to get the equipment to the field as quickly as possible. But safety tests were never waived.
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Tenth-anniversary commemorations of the 9/11 terror attacks will begin kicking off tomorrow, as almost 2,500 motorcyclists launch the 11th America's 9/11 Ride that begins in Shanksville, Pa., and continues over the next three days to the Pentagon and World Trade Center crash sites.
The annual memorial ride, sponsored by America's 911 Foundation Inc., honors more than 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks, including 184 killed when American Airlines Flight 77 exploded into the Pentagon, as well as the first responders who rushed to all three locations.
Sept. 11 survivors, families who lost loved ones in the attacks and first responders are among those registered for this year's memorial ride, to kick off tomorrow evening in Pennsylvania's Somerset County. There, the first phase of a new Flight 93 National Memorial honoring 40 people killed aboard the flight will be dedicated Sept. 10.
Following an evening memorial concert by rock 'n' roll "screamer" Donnie Iris Aug. 18, the motorcycle procession will depart early the next day for the Pentagon Memorial. There, riders will pay tribute to victims of the Pentagon attack, including the 58 passengers, four flight attendants and two pilots aboard the hijacked Boeing 757 and 125 people inside the Pentagon.
Country music star Aaron Tippin, best known in military circles for his "You've Got to Stand for Something" single that became a popular anthem for troops fighting in the Gulf War and his No. 1 post-9/11 hit, "Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagles Fly," will present a free concert that evening in nearby Arlington, Va.
The last leg of the ride will begin at the Pentagon early Aug. 20 as the motorcyclists travel to ground zero in New York. The following day, they will participate in a World Trade Center ceremony honoring 2,753 victims of the attacks there, which includes deaths from respiratory disease linked to the towers' collapse.
Ted Sjurseth, who with his wife, Lisa, founded America's 911 Foundation in October 2001, sponsored the first memorial ride the following month with 250 participants. The ride has increased in size over the past decade, and Sjurseth said he's excited that the 10-anniversary ride will be the largest yet.
"We're focused on making this year's ride better than ever and taking what we've been working on over the past 10 years to the next level," he said. "Through this year's program, along with the ride, we will continue our primary mission to remember and honor those who lost their lives on 9/11."
The ride also raises money for programs that support families of first responders, foundation officials said. Over the past six years, the foundation has awarded more than $180,000 in college scholarships to more than 75 children of emergency responders, and donated more than $500,000 in new equipment and contributions to first-responder departments.
"We're here to honor the heroes we have around us every day," Sjurseth said.
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
The annual memorial ride, sponsored by America's 911 Foundation Inc., honors more than 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks, including 184 killed when American Airlines Flight 77 exploded into the Pentagon, as well as the first responders who rushed to all three locations.
Sept. 11 survivors, families who lost loved ones in the attacks and first responders are among those registered for this year's memorial ride, to kick off tomorrow evening in Pennsylvania's Somerset County. There, the first phase of a new Flight 93 National Memorial honoring 40 people killed aboard the flight will be dedicated Sept. 10.
Following an evening memorial concert by rock 'n' roll "screamer" Donnie Iris Aug. 18, the motorcycle procession will depart early the next day for the Pentagon Memorial. There, riders will pay tribute to victims of the Pentagon attack, including the 58 passengers, four flight attendants and two pilots aboard the hijacked Boeing 757 and 125 people inside the Pentagon.
Country music star Aaron Tippin, best known in military circles for his "You've Got to Stand for Something" single that became a popular anthem for troops fighting in the Gulf War and his No. 1 post-9/11 hit, "Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagles Fly," will present a free concert that evening in nearby Arlington, Va.
The last leg of the ride will begin at the Pentagon early Aug. 20 as the motorcyclists travel to ground zero in New York. The following day, they will participate in a World Trade Center ceremony honoring 2,753 victims of the attacks there, which includes deaths from respiratory disease linked to the towers' collapse.
Ted Sjurseth, who with his wife, Lisa, founded America's 911 Foundation in October 2001, sponsored the first memorial ride the following month with 250 participants. The ride has increased in size over the past decade, and Sjurseth said he's excited that the 10-anniversary ride will be the largest yet.
"We're focused on making this year's ride better than ever and taking what we've been working on over the past 10 years to the next level," he said. "Through this year's program, along with the ride, we will continue our primary mission to remember and honor those who lost their lives on 9/11."
The ride also raises money for programs that support families of first responders, foundation officials said. Over the past six years, the foundation has awarded more than $180,000 in college scholarships to more than 75 children of emergency responders, and donated more than $500,000 in new equipment and contributions to first-responder departments.
"We're here to honor the heroes we have around us every day," Sjurseth said.
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
About a year ago, Air Force Maj. Nicholas Sabula received word of an upcoming assignment following his deployment in Afghanistan.
He became concerned, however, when he learned that his new duty station and the local area didn’t have adequate services for his son, who was diagnosed with autism in 2006. But shortly after, based on a recommendation from his Exceptional Family Member Program coordinator, Sabula’s assignment was cancelled and he moved here instead.
“The benefit to our son was tremendous,” he said. “It showed the availability of services at one location versus another can make an incredible impact on that child.
“Knowing that EFMP took care of my family, that was critical to me,” he added.
Ensuring military families with special medical and educational needs receive the best care and support possible is the goal of the Exceptional Family Member Program, said Rebecca Posante, deputy director of the department’s office of community support for military families with special needs.
The program assists these families with everything from assignments, as in Sabula’s case, to referrals for military and community resources, Posante said, with a focus on three key areas: identification and enrollment, assignment coordination and family support.
Family members -- whether a spouse, child or dependent adult -- with a chronic medical condition or special educational requirement are eligible to enroll, Posante explained. Conditions run the gamut, she noted, covering everything from asthma and allergies to autism and Alzheimer’s disease.
“If you’ve got something that requires you to see someone beyond your family doctor, you probably should come and see if you need to be enrolled,” she advised.
An enrollment referral can come from several sources, Posante explained, including a military treatment facility or school, or from the service or family member. A program coordinator at the local military treatment facility handles the enrollment process, she added.
Once enrolled, the service member’s records would include a “flag,” Posante explained, which serves as an alert that the member’s family may need special consideration when up for an assignment, whether stateside or overseas. This ensures a family member’s special needs are considered in the assignment process, she added.
“There may be places where if a family member has a particular issue, it may not be advisable for you to go to this area,” she noted, citing asthma as an example. The condition might be fine at one location, but exacerbated at another, she explained. Or, a child or spouse may need a specialized orthopedic program that’s only offered in limited locations.
The program also helps to avoid treatment disruptions, Posante noted. If a cancer patient is undergoing treatment at one base, a program coordinator can recommend that patient not be moved until therapy is completed.
“We’re saying, ‘Let’s take this into consideration before we put you into an untenable situation,’” she said. “We’re looking only at medical and educational needs to be met where they’re going.”
When notified of a move or upon arrival, Posante recommended families contact their local installation family support providers. The program recently added these providers, she explained, and they’re now situated in family centers at every installation.
These providers help families identify and access programs and services, both on base and within the community. Their services include information and referrals for military and community services, local school information, referral to other family center providers, and education and training about issues related to the special need. The support providers also provide a “warm handoff” to the gaining installation, she said, by sending information, with the family’s permission, to the program contact there.
Families with special needs often feel like they’re starting from scratch at a new duty station, Posante noted, as they work to enroll in new programs and ensure education plans are up-to-date. “If I’m getting ready to move, it’s helpful to have one person I can contact for information and points of contact,” she said. “They can help navigate these systems.”
Military families who aren’t near an installation, including those of the National Guard and Reserve, can call a Military OneSource consultant for support and to discuss special-needs concerns. Families can receive 12 free consultations per year by calling 1-800-342-9647 or by visiting the OneSource website.
Posante said her office is planning to host a panel next month during which active and reserve service members with special needs family members -- from children to adults -- will explain what challenges they face and offer suggestions to improve the program. This information will help shape the program in the years ahead, she added.
More than 120,000 military families with special needs are enrolled in the program, but Posante said there could be twice that many with enrollable conditions, ranging from the minor to the severe. She’d like to see more service members enroll so they can receive the care and support their families need. “It’s in their benefit, their family’s benefit, to be enrolled,” she said.
By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service
He became concerned, however, when he learned that his new duty station and the local area didn’t have adequate services for his son, who was diagnosed with autism in 2006. But shortly after, based on a recommendation from his Exceptional Family Member Program coordinator, Sabula’s assignment was cancelled and he moved here instead.
“The benefit to our son was tremendous,” he said. “It showed the availability of services at one location versus another can make an incredible impact on that child.
“Knowing that EFMP took care of my family, that was critical to me,” he added.
Ensuring military families with special medical and educational needs receive the best care and support possible is the goal of the Exceptional Family Member Program, said Rebecca Posante, deputy director of the department’s office of community support for military families with special needs.
The program assists these families with everything from assignments, as in Sabula’s case, to referrals for military and community resources, Posante said, with a focus on three key areas: identification and enrollment, assignment coordination and family support.
Family members -- whether a spouse, child or dependent adult -- with a chronic medical condition or special educational requirement are eligible to enroll, Posante explained. Conditions run the gamut, she noted, covering everything from asthma and allergies to autism and Alzheimer’s disease.
“If you’ve got something that requires you to see someone beyond your family doctor, you probably should come and see if you need to be enrolled,” she advised.
An enrollment referral can come from several sources, Posante explained, including a military treatment facility or school, or from the service or family member. A program coordinator at the local military treatment facility handles the enrollment process, she added.
Once enrolled, the service member’s records would include a “flag,” Posante explained, which serves as an alert that the member’s family may need special consideration when up for an assignment, whether stateside or overseas. This ensures a family member’s special needs are considered in the assignment process, she added.
“There may be places where if a family member has a particular issue, it may not be advisable for you to go to this area,” she noted, citing asthma as an example. The condition might be fine at one location, but exacerbated at another, she explained. Or, a child or spouse may need a specialized orthopedic program that’s only offered in limited locations.
The program also helps to avoid treatment disruptions, Posante noted. If a cancer patient is undergoing treatment at one base, a program coordinator can recommend that patient not be moved until therapy is completed.
“We’re saying, ‘Let’s take this into consideration before we put you into an untenable situation,’” she said. “We’re looking only at medical and educational needs to be met where they’re going.”
When notified of a move or upon arrival, Posante recommended families contact their local installation family support providers. The program recently added these providers, she explained, and they’re now situated in family centers at every installation.
These providers help families identify and access programs and services, both on base and within the community. Their services include information and referrals for military and community services, local school information, referral to other family center providers, and education and training about issues related to the special need. The support providers also provide a “warm handoff” to the gaining installation, she said, by sending information, with the family’s permission, to the program contact there.
Families with special needs often feel like they’re starting from scratch at a new duty station, Posante noted, as they work to enroll in new programs and ensure education plans are up-to-date. “If I’m getting ready to move, it’s helpful to have one person I can contact for information and points of contact,” she said. “They can help navigate these systems.”
Military families who aren’t near an installation, including those of the National Guard and Reserve, can call a Military OneSource consultant for support and to discuss special-needs concerns. Families can receive 12 free consultations per year by calling 1-800-342-9647 or by visiting the OneSource website.
Posante said her office is planning to host a panel next month during which active and reserve service members with special needs family members -- from children to adults -- will explain what challenges they face and offer suggestions to improve the program. This information will help shape the program in the years ahead, she added.
More than 120,000 military families with special needs are enrolled in the program, but Posante said there could be twice that many with enrollable conditions, ranging from the minor to the severe. She’d like to see more service members enroll so they can receive the care and support their families need. “It’s in their benefit, their family’s benefit, to be enrolled,” she said.
By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service
The military retirement isn’t going to change any time soon, Defense Department officials said.
“There’s no immediate plan to affect retirement,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told service members at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, July 31.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said any changes to military retirement should be studied carefully and should be “grandfathered” so the military doesn’t break faith with those in the service.
Pentagon officials are reviewing all areas of the defense budget, and the goal of the review is to “inform the decisions and strategies that we have to make,” Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said Aug. 4.
“So that's going to be key to what decisions we make and what areas we look to for savings,” the secretary added.
In support of the department’s efficiency initiatives, a small group of Defense Business Board members was tasked to develop alternative plans to the current military retirement system. The group briefed its findings and draft recommendations to the full board during their July 21 quarterly meeting. The full board approved the recommendations, and the group will issue a final report by the end of this month.
The Defense Business Board provides DOD’s senior leaders independent advice and recommendations “on effective strategies for the implementation of best business practices on matters of interest to the Department of Defense,” according to Pentagon officials.
Meanwhile, a Pentagon spokeswoman said, officials are reviewing the board’s recommendations.
“Any recommendation to change the military retirement system must be approached with thoughtful analysis, to include considerations of impacts to recruiting and retention,” Eileen Lainez said. “While the military retirement system, as with all other compensation, is a fair subject of review for effectiveness and efficiency, no changes to the current retirement system have been approved, and no changes will be made without careful consideration for both the current force and the future force.”
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
“There’s no immediate plan to affect retirement,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told service members at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, July 31.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said any changes to military retirement should be studied carefully and should be “grandfathered” so the military doesn’t break faith with those in the service.
Pentagon officials are reviewing all areas of the defense budget, and the goal of the review is to “inform the decisions and strategies that we have to make,” Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said Aug. 4.
“So that's going to be key to what decisions we make and what areas we look to for savings,” the secretary added.
In support of the department’s efficiency initiatives, a small group of Defense Business Board members was tasked to develop alternative plans to the current military retirement system. The group briefed its findings and draft recommendations to the full board during their July 21 quarterly meeting. The full board approved the recommendations, and the group will issue a final report by the end of this month.
The Defense Business Board provides DOD’s senior leaders independent advice and recommendations “on effective strategies for the implementation of best business practices on matters of interest to the Department of Defense,” according to Pentagon officials.
Meanwhile, a Pentagon spokeswoman said, officials are reviewing the board’s recommendations.
“Any recommendation to change the military retirement system must be approached with thoughtful analysis, to include considerations of impacts to recruiting and retention,” Eileen Lainez said. “While the military retirement system, as with all other compensation, is a fair subject of review for effectiveness and efficiency, no changes to the current retirement system have been approved, and no changes will be made without careful consideration for both the current force and the future force.”
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
A young service member saddled with debt and in need of some quick cash doesn’t have to go far. Lenders offering same-day loans sit outside the gate of nearly every military installation in the nation.
But the lure of fast and easy cash can lead strapped troops down a path of steep interest rates and fees that far surpass their initial loan.
In other words, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, said Brenda Linnington, director of the Better Business Bureau Military Line.
Protecting service members and their families from financial pitfalls such as payday lenders is Linnington’s primary goal at Military Line. The program’s mission, she explained, is to increase military members’ financial literacy through information, education and outreach -- both online and on the ground.
“I’d like Military Line to serve as a bridge between the civilian and military communities,” said Linnington, an Army veteran and the wife of an active-duty Army officer. She took on the job in January after the former director, Holly Petraeus, left to head the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of Servicemember Affairs.
The program, created in 2004, also is a partner in the Defense Department’s Financial Readiness Campaign, she said, which gives local bureau representatives access to teach financial literacy classes on military installations. The bureau, she added, has 164 local offices scattered across the country.
The importance of a military family’s financial stability can’t be overestimated, Linnington said.
“If we’re deploying a young soldier and expecting him to do great things on our behalf, but he’s greatly in debt and collectors are calling his family,” she said, “that soldier is never going to be completely mission-ready.”
One major concern, Linnington noted, is that financial issues often lead to the loss of security clearances, which can affect service members’ ability to perform their jobs.
“To be under that level of emotional strain and then expect them to be a strong family that’s growing and thriving is unrealistic,” she said.
Debt and debt management are among the most pressing financial issues for service members and their families, she noted, particularly for the younger population. Reports indicate that junior service members carry a heavier load of debt than their civilian counterparts.
This debt combined with a steady paycheck and a strong sense of discipline can add up to an attractive target for scam artists, Linnington said. “It’s very enticing to someone looking to entrap you in a contract,” she added. “A young private might not make a large income, but collectively, if there’s a bunch of privates, that’s a lot of money.”
Linnington said the scams have come fast and furious in recent years. Some scammers contact military family members by phone or email and make false claims that the service member has been wounded overseas and money is needed to help. Or, a person posts a house for rent, but when the service member arrives, the person has vanished, along with the security deposit.
And, while payday lenders are, by law, capped at 36 percent, they find loopholes by charging fees as opposed to boosting interest rates.
“There are some really terrible things going on,” she said.
To avoid getting trapped in a scam, Linnington stressed the importance of financial education and well-being. “It’s getting people to realize they need to be careful and not necessarily go on someone’s word,” she said.
Tackling debt also can help, she said, since feeling overwhelmed financially can leave people more vulnerable to unscrupulous businesses and predatory lenders.
People who are in over their heads should talk their local personal financial manager, she advised, who can provide guidance and referrals to helping organizations, such as military aid societies.
The Military Line website also offers service-specific resources, such as consumer alerts and guides, reports on businesses, and an avenue to file complaints. The bureau will help to resolve issues and also alert the military population of a potential scam, she said.
By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service
But the lure of fast and easy cash can lead strapped troops down a path of steep interest rates and fees that far surpass their initial loan.
In other words, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, said Brenda Linnington, director of the Better Business Bureau Military Line.
Protecting service members and their families from financial pitfalls such as payday lenders is Linnington’s primary goal at Military Line. The program’s mission, she explained, is to increase military members’ financial literacy through information, education and outreach -- both online and on the ground.
“I’d like Military Line to serve as a bridge between the civilian and military communities,” said Linnington, an Army veteran and the wife of an active-duty Army officer. She took on the job in January after the former director, Holly Petraeus, left to head the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of Servicemember Affairs.
The program, created in 2004, also is a partner in the Defense Department’s Financial Readiness Campaign, she said, which gives local bureau representatives access to teach financial literacy classes on military installations. The bureau, she added, has 164 local offices scattered across the country.
The importance of a military family’s financial stability can’t be overestimated, Linnington said.
“If we’re deploying a young soldier and expecting him to do great things on our behalf, but he’s greatly in debt and collectors are calling his family,” she said, “that soldier is never going to be completely mission-ready.”
One major concern, Linnington noted, is that financial issues often lead to the loss of security clearances, which can affect service members’ ability to perform their jobs.
“To be under that level of emotional strain and then expect them to be a strong family that’s growing and thriving is unrealistic,” she said.
Debt and debt management are among the most pressing financial issues for service members and their families, she noted, particularly for the younger population. Reports indicate that junior service members carry a heavier load of debt than their civilian counterparts.
This debt combined with a steady paycheck and a strong sense of discipline can add up to an attractive target for scam artists, Linnington said. “It’s very enticing to someone looking to entrap you in a contract,” she added. “A young private might not make a large income, but collectively, if there’s a bunch of privates, that’s a lot of money.”
Linnington said the scams have come fast and furious in recent years. Some scammers contact military family members by phone or email and make false claims that the service member has been wounded overseas and money is needed to help. Or, a person posts a house for rent, but when the service member arrives, the person has vanished, along with the security deposit.
And, while payday lenders are, by law, capped at 36 percent, they find loopholes by charging fees as opposed to boosting interest rates.
“There are some really terrible things going on,” she said.
To avoid getting trapped in a scam, Linnington stressed the importance of financial education and well-being. “It’s getting people to realize they need to be careful and not necessarily go on someone’s word,” she said.
Tackling debt also can help, she said, since feeling overwhelmed financially can leave people more vulnerable to unscrupulous businesses and predatory lenders.
People who are in over their heads should talk their local personal financial manager, she advised, who can provide guidance and referrals to helping organizations, such as military aid societies.
The Military Line website also offers service-specific resources, such as consumer alerts and guides, reports on businesses, and an avenue to file complaints. The bureau will help to resolve issues and also alert the military population of a potential scam, she said.
By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service
.The Army released suicide data today for the month of July. Among active-duty soldiers, there were 22 potential suicides: three have been confirmed as suicide and 19 remain under investigation. For June 2011, the Army reported nine potential suicides among active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, three cases have been confirmed as suicide, and six cases remain under investigation.
During July 2011, among reserve component soldiers who were not on active duty, there were 10 potential suicides: none have been confirmed as suicide and 10 remain under investigation. For June 2011, the Army reported five potential suicides among not-on-active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, one case has been added for a total of six cases. Four cases have been confirmed as suicide, and two cases remain under investigation.
“Every suicide represents a tragic loss to our Army and the nation. While the high number of potential suicides in July is discouraging, we are confident our efforts aimed at increasing individuals’ resiliency, while reducing incidence of at-risk and high-risk behavior across the force, are having a positive impact,” Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, vice chief of staff of the Army, stated. “We absolutely recognize there is much work to be done and remain committed to ensuring our people are cared for and have ready access to the best possible programs and services.”
Soldiers and families in need of crisis assistance can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained consultants are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and can be contacted by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or by visiting their website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Army leaders can access current health promotion guidance in newly revised Army Regulation 600-63 (Health Promotion) at: http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r600_63.pdf and Army Pamphlet 600-24 (Health Promotion, Risk Reduction and Suicide Prevention) at http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/p600_24.pdf.
The Army’s comprehensive list of Suicide Prevention Program information is located at http://www.preventsuicide.army.mil.
Suicide prevention training resources for Army families can be accessed at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/training_sub.asp?sub_cat=20 (requires Army Knowledge Online access to download materials).
Information about Military OneSource is located at http://www.militaryonesource.com or by dialing the toll-free number 1-800-342-9647 for those residing in the continental United States. Overseas personnel should refer to the Military OneSource website for dialing instructions for their specific location.
Information about the Army’s Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Program is located at http://www.army.mil/csf.
The Defense Center for Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) Outreach Center can be contacted at 1-866-966-1020, via electronic mail at Resources@DCoEOutreach.org and at http://www.dcoe.health.mil.
The website for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is http://www.afsp.org, and the Suicide Prevention Resource Council site is found at http://www.sprc.org/index.asp.
The website for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is http://www.TAPS.org, and they can be reached at 1-800-959-TAPS (8277).
During July 2011, among reserve component soldiers who were not on active duty, there were 10 potential suicides: none have been confirmed as suicide and 10 remain under investigation. For June 2011, the Army reported five potential suicides among not-on-active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, one case has been added for a total of six cases. Four cases have been confirmed as suicide, and two cases remain under investigation.
“Every suicide represents a tragic loss to our Army and the nation. While the high number of potential suicides in July is discouraging, we are confident our efforts aimed at increasing individuals’ resiliency, while reducing incidence of at-risk and high-risk behavior across the force, are having a positive impact,” Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, vice chief of staff of the Army, stated. “We absolutely recognize there is much work to be done and remain committed to ensuring our people are cared for and have ready access to the best possible programs and services.”
Soldiers and families in need of crisis assistance can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained consultants are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and can be contacted by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or by visiting their website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Army leaders can access current health promotion guidance in newly revised Army Regulation 600-63 (Health Promotion) at: http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r600_63.pdf and Army Pamphlet 600-24 (Health Promotion, Risk Reduction and Suicide Prevention) at http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/p600_24.pdf.
The Army’s comprehensive list of Suicide Prevention Program information is located at http://www.preventsuicide.army.mil.
Suicide prevention training resources for Army families can be accessed at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/training_sub.asp?sub_cat=20 (requires Army Knowledge Online access to download materials).
Information about Military OneSource is located at http://www.militaryonesource.com or by dialing the toll-free number 1-800-342-9647 for those residing in the continental United States. Overseas personnel should refer to the Military OneSource website for dialing instructions for their specific location.
Information about the Army’s Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Program is located at http://www.army.mil/csf.
The Defense Center for Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) Outreach Center can be contacted at 1-866-966-1020, via electronic mail at Resources@DCoEOutreach.org and at http://www.dcoe.health.mil.
The website for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is http://www.afsp.org, and the Suicide Prevention Resource Council site is found at http://www.sprc.org/index.asp.
The website for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is http://www.TAPS.org, and they can be reached at 1-800-959-TAPS (8277).
A former Marine Corps corporal will receive the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama on Sept. 15 for conspicuous gallantry almost two years ago in Afghanistan, White House officials announced today.
Dakota Meyer will be the third living recipient - and first Marine - to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Meyer is receiving the nation’s highest military honor for actions Sept. 8, 2009, while he was serving with Marine Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7, in Afghanistan’s Kunar province.
He was born in Columbia, Ky., on June 26, 1988, attended local public schools, and graduated from Green County high school. In 2006, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. He completed his active duty commitment last year and now serves in the Inactive Ready Reserve of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve as a sergeant.
Meyer deployed twice to the combat theater, serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Dakota Meyer will be the third living recipient - and first Marine - to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Meyer is receiving the nation’s highest military honor for actions Sept. 8, 2009, while he was serving with Marine Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7, in Afghanistan’s Kunar province.
He was born in Columbia, Ky., on June 26, 1988, attended local public schools, and graduated from Green County high school. In 2006, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. He completed his active duty commitment last year and now serves in the Inactive Ready Reserve of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve as a sergeant.
Meyer deployed twice to the combat theater, serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
More than 650 people gathered Aug. 3-7 for the 40th annual Tuskegee Airmen convention, which featured events throughout the national capital region.
This year's theme, "70 Years of Aviation Excellence: Then, Now, the Future," celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen legacy.
Sixty-seven original Tuskegee Airmen registered for the convention; among them was retired Col. Charles E. McGee.
"Because we were segregated, we were together over a long time, so some lifelong friendships have come out of that experience," McGee said. "Gathering at conventions is our way of keeping in touch, even though our numbers are dropping off. Conventions are a chance for us to share with others in the different communities."
The week kicked off Aug. 3 with the final flight of an Army 1944 PT-13 Stearman biplane, as it flew along the Potomac River. The aircraft originally was used to train Tuskegee pilots before retiring from military service as a crop duster.
Recognized as a vital piece of aviation and African-American history, the biplane -- named the "Spirit of Tuskegee" -- will be viewed by future generations at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of African-American History and Culture.
The Tuskegee Airmen also honored their brethren who lost their lives in service to their country with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Air Force Memorial, and they received a sneak peak of the national memorial to Martin Luther King Jr. that is set to open to the public later this month on the National Mall.
Aug. 4 was set aside to inspire the aviators of tomorrow. About 400 teenagers from across the nation began their day at Joint Base Andrews, Md. They toured static aircraft displays, watched operational demonstrations and tried on military gear. The teens then traveled to the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center at the National Harbor where they enjoyed a lunch with influential aviation and military leaders, including the Tuskegee Airmen.
"It's going great," said Trent Dudley, the president of the Tuskegee Airmen’s East Coast chapter and event coordinator. "Any time you can link the original airmen with the youth is wonderful."
McGee noted the importance of continuing the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy.
"The way I put it when I talk to 7th graders or 8th graders is they need to realize that 25 years from now what's going on in the country is going to be what they're doing," he said. "So we hope that they're still focused to preserve our freedoms and still seek equal opportunity and equal access for all."
The Aug. 4 focus turned to the military members making sacrifices in today's wars. An executive and senior-leader panel fielded questions from an almost all-military audience. Topics included possible changes to the military retirement system, diversity in the military and mentoring.
"Diversity is a military necessity," said Jarris Taylor Jr., deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for strategic diversity integration. "Diversity is a leadership and managerial philosophy, not military equal opportunity. It's about organizational change."
"The more diverse that we are, the better," said retired Lt. Col. James C. Warren, an original Tuskegee Airman. "If we quit using hyphenations in America, we'll get along much better. I'm not an African-American -- I'm an American citizen."
Warren has attended 39 of the 40 Tuskegee Airmen conventions. He missed one because he was still on active duty serving in the Vietnam War.
Halfway through the day Aug. 5, a large crowd of hotel staff and guests lined the hallway outside the ballroom used for the convention. When the Tuskegee Airmen and current military service members broke for lunch, they were greeted with an explosion of clapping and cheering.
"It's such an honor for us to be able to host the Tuskegee Airmen. They are American icons," said Aimie Gorrell, the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center director of public relations. "We were thrilled that about 400 of our staff were able to take time away from their work today to come out and do what we call a 'standing ovation.' We do a standing ovation for our very most VIP guests and customers, and certainly the Tuskegee Airmen are our true VIPs today."
The convention served as a reminder of just how diverse American society has become in present day, McGee said.
"It's been rewarding to be a part of the experience," McGee said, "and see that change has taken place. I believe it's for the good. Our country is more diverse now than it was then, so we need to stay on that road, … because talent doesn't come with happenstance of birth."
By Air Force Master Sgt. Tracy DeMarco
Air Force District of Washington
This year's theme, "70 Years of Aviation Excellence: Then, Now, the Future," celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen legacy.
Sixty-seven original Tuskegee Airmen registered for the convention; among them was retired Col. Charles E. McGee.
"Because we were segregated, we were together over a long time, so some lifelong friendships have come out of that experience," McGee said. "Gathering at conventions is our way of keeping in touch, even though our numbers are dropping off. Conventions are a chance for us to share with others in the different communities."
The week kicked off Aug. 3 with the final flight of an Army 1944 PT-13 Stearman biplane, as it flew along the Potomac River. The aircraft originally was used to train Tuskegee pilots before retiring from military service as a crop duster.
Recognized as a vital piece of aviation and African-American history, the biplane -- named the "Spirit of Tuskegee" -- will be viewed by future generations at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of African-American History and Culture.
The Tuskegee Airmen also honored their brethren who lost their lives in service to their country with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Air Force Memorial, and they received a sneak peak of the national memorial to Martin Luther King Jr. that is set to open to the public later this month on the National Mall.
Aug. 4 was set aside to inspire the aviators of tomorrow. About 400 teenagers from across the nation began their day at Joint Base Andrews, Md. They toured static aircraft displays, watched operational demonstrations and tried on military gear. The teens then traveled to the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center at the National Harbor where they enjoyed a lunch with influential aviation and military leaders, including the Tuskegee Airmen.
"It's going great," said Trent Dudley, the president of the Tuskegee Airmen’s East Coast chapter and event coordinator. "Any time you can link the original airmen with the youth is wonderful."
McGee noted the importance of continuing the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy.
"The way I put it when I talk to 7th graders or 8th graders is they need to realize that 25 years from now what's going on in the country is going to be what they're doing," he said. "So we hope that they're still focused to preserve our freedoms and still seek equal opportunity and equal access for all."
The Aug. 4 focus turned to the military members making sacrifices in today's wars. An executive and senior-leader panel fielded questions from an almost all-military audience. Topics included possible changes to the military retirement system, diversity in the military and mentoring.
"Diversity is a military necessity," said Jarris Taylor Jr., deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for strategic diversity integration. "Diversity is a leadership and managerial philosophy, not military equal opportunity. It's about organizational change."
"The more diverse that we are, the better," said retired Lt. Col. James C. Warren, an original Tuskegee Airman. "If we quit using hyphenations in America, we'll get along much better. I'm not an African-American -- I'm an American citizen."
Warren has attended 39 of the 40 Tuskegee Airmen conventions. He missed one because he was still on active duty serving in the Vietnam War.
Halfway through the day Aug. 5, a large crowd of hotel staff and guests lined the hallway outside the ballroom used for the convention. When the Tuskegee Airmen and current military service members broke for lunch, they were greeted with an explosion of clapping and cheering.
"It's such an honor for us to be able to host the Tuskegee Airmen. They are American icons," said Aimie Gorrell, the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center director of public relations. "We were thrilled that about 400 of our staff were able to take time away from their work today to come out and do what we call a 'standing ovation.' We do a standing ovation for our very most VIP guests and customers, and certainly the Tuskegee Airmen are our true VIPs today."
The convention served as a reminder of just how diverse American society has become in present day, McGee said.
"It's been rewarding to be a part of the experience," McGee said, "and see that change has taken place. I believe it's for the good. Our country is more diverse now than it was then, so we need to stay on that road, … because talent doesn't come with happenstance of birth."
By Air Force Master Sgt. Tracy DeMarco
Air Force District of Washington
Congress made changes to the post 9/11 GI bill that take effect this year. The Department of Veteran Affairs is reaching out to Veterans to explain the changes.
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As the accomplishments of the World War II-era Tuskegee Airmen fade into U.S. history, a grateful nation must work to keep their legacy alive, the chief of the National Guard Bureau said at the 40th annual Tuskegee Airmen convention.
“The reality of human behavior is that the further in time we get from an event in history, the further it slips from our memory,” Air Force Gen. Craig R. McKinley said Aug. 5 at the gathering of the group named for the nation’s first African-American fighter pilots at National Harbor, Md. “I don’t want to see this happen to the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.”
The military made a tangible step in preserving the unit’s heritage when in 2007 the 187th Fighter Wing of the Alabama Air National Guard deactivated its 160th Fighter Squadron and reactivated it as the 100th Fighter Squadron in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen, said McKinley, who was director of the Air National Guard at the time. But, there is more the military and the nation can do to preserve and replicate their legacy, he said.
McKinley spoke of the airmen’s commitment to service, noting that it came during a time of Jim Crow segregation laws when “this country was telling African-Americans they couldn’t stay in the same hotels as white people, they couldn’t attend the same schools as white people, and in some cases, they couldn’t even enter a building through the same door as white people.
“Why then would the Tuskegee Airmen in the 1940s choose to fight for our country?” the general asked. “I’ll bet that if you asked the original Tuskegee Airmen … a common answer would be commitment to service and preserving our nation for the next generation to make it better.”
All service members can carry on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by striving for excellence, McKinley said. He noted the accomplishments of the airmen, which include more than 16,000 combat sorties with 115 German aircraft destroyed in the air and another 150 on the ground, and 950 German vehicles destroyed. Their commendations include three Distinguished Unit Citations, about 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, at least one Silver Star, 14 Bronze Stars, 748 Air Medals and eight Purple Hearts.
“If you want an example of excellence, there it is,” McKinley said to applause.
The military can do more to carry on the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy, he said, by conducting outreach to make more young people eligible for recruitment. Pentagon statistics show that three out of four Americans ages 17 through 24, and more often minorities, cannot be recruited due to inadequate education, health problems or criminal history, he said.
The services also must continue with efforts to promote diversity as a core value, making its leadership as diverse as America, and hold senior officers accountable for progress, McKinley said.
Also, the general said, the nation needs to prime its young people to maintain U.S. superiority in science and technology, noting increased competition from China, Russia, Canada and Brazil in aviation and aerospace.
“We have to ask ourselves, who is going to design America’s unmanned aerial vehicle technology of the future?” he said. “Who will build the next stealth bomber? Who will go to Mars?”
With fewer and fewer Americans having a family member who served in the military, McKinley said, service members and veterans must serve as the example. And, for those who cannot serve in the military, he encouraged other forms of service, such as the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps.
“Those of us who have influence over the younger generation of Americans can encourage them to continue the tradition of American aviation and to follow the Tuskegee Airmen’s example of service to our nation above self,” he said. “For 70 years, the Tuskegee Airmen have rightfully been hailed as America’s heroes. Through the actions we take starting today, we can ensure that their legacy lives -- then, now and in the future.”
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
“The reality of human behavior is that the further in time we get from an event in history, the further it slips from our memory,” Air Force Gen. Craig R. McKinley said Aug. 5 at the gathering of the group named for the nation’s first African-American fighter pilots at National Harbor, Md. “I don’t want to see this happen to the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.”
The military made a tangible step in preserving the unit’s heritage when in 2007 the 187th Fighter Wing of the Alabama Air National Guard deactivated its 160th Fighter Squadron and reactivated it as the 100th Fighter Squadron in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen, said McKinley, who was director of the Air National Guard at the time. But, there is more the military and the nation can do to preserve and replicate their legacy, he said.
McKinley spoke of the airmen’s commitment to service, noting that it came during a time of Jim Crow segregation laws when “this country was telling African-Americans they couldn’t stay in the same hotels as white people, they couldn’t attend the same schools as white people, and in some cases, they couldn’t even enter a building through the same door as white people.
“Why then would the Tuskegee Airmen in the 1940s choose to fight for our country?” the general asked. “I’ll bet that if you asked the original Tuskegee Airmen … a common answer would be commitment to service and preserving our nation for the next generation to make it better.”
All service members can carry on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by striving for excellence, McKinley said. He noted the accomplishments of the airmen, which include more than 16,000 combat sorties with 115 German aircraft destroyed in the air and another 150 on the ground, and 950 German vehicles destroyed. Their commendations include three Distinguished Unit Citations, about 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, at least one Silver Star, 14 Bronze Stars, 748 Air Medals and eight Purple Hearts.
“If you want an example of excellence, there it is,” McKinley said to applause.
The military can do more to carry on the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy, he said, by conducting outreach to make more young people eligible for recruitment. Pentagon statistics show that three out of four Americans ages 17 through 24, and more often minorities, cannot be recruited due to inadequate education, health problems or criminal history, he said.
The services also must continue with efforts to promote diversity as a core value, making its leadership as diverse as America, and hold senior officers accountable for progress, McKinley said.
Also, the general said, the nation needs to prime its young people to maintain U.S. superiority in science and technology, noting increased competition from China, Russia, Canada and Brazil in aviation and aerospace.
“We have to ask ourselves, who is going to design America’s unmanned aerial vehicle technology of the future?” he said. “Who will build the next stealth bomber? Who will go to Mars?”
With fewer and fewer Americans having a family member who served in the military, McKinley said, service members and veterans must serve as the example. And, for those who cannot serve in the military, he encouraged other forms of service, such as the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps.
“Those of us who have influence over the younger generation of Americans can encourage them to continue the tradition of American aviation and to follow the Tuskegee Airmen’s example of service to our nation above self,” he said. “For 70 years, the Tuskegee Airmen have rightfully been hailed as America’s heroes. Through the actions we take starting today, we can ensure that their legacy lives -- then, now and in the future.”
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
A video news magazine designed to inform veterans, their families and their communities about the services and benefits they have earned through their service to America.
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From pens to Bradley fighting vehicles, 1.7 million pieces of military equipment have been moved out of Iraq so far, as the Dec. 31 deadline for U.S. forces to be out of Iraq approaches, a U.S. Transportation Command official said this week.
“The mission is looking good,” said Air Force Maj. John Rozsnyai, who heads up Transcom’s joint planning team for the effort.
The drawdown from Iraq, which began Sept. 1 after combat operations ceased, now stands at nearly 60 percent complete for U.S. military equipment, officials said.
Transcom has five months to bring home the remaining troops and the last 1 million pieces of military equipment.
Rozsnyai told American Forces Press Service in an Aug. 1 telephone interview that he had just returned from a “tabletop” organizing meeting in Kuwait.
“Everything we’re seeing is tracking well,” he said.
The bulk of equipment is returning to the United States, Rozsnyai said, and the Army claims 90 percent of the load. U.S. Central Command officials decide whether equipment goes back to the United States, to the Iraqis for their forces, or is sent to Afghanistan to help the war effort there, he explained.
Meanwhile, he added, the possibility that the Iraqi government may ask for some U.S. forces to remain in Iraq beyond this year affects decisions about the equipment that has yet to be brought out.
“Part of the equipment uncertainty is whether the Iraqi government will want the United States to stay longer,” Rozsnyai said. “Requirements for equipment are being balanced between [Afghanistan and Iraq],” he added.
After destinations are decided, Transcom officials begin the mammoth task of moving troops and equipment.
Iraq’s terrain and infrastructure are more favorable for this type of effort than Afghanistan’s rough and rocky landscape, the major said.
“It’s easy to get a convoy to Kuwait [or] Jordan,” he said. “The processes we have in Iraq are working well.”
Still, minor modifications would make the roads better for transporting equipment, he said, to provide “wiggle room” if it’s needed in November and December. Other improvements are in the works to make Transcom’s job easier, Rozsnyai said.
“We’re working on improving lines of communication, and a service route for critical, sensitive cargo, to give us another option out there,” he said.
But not everything has been moving out of Iraq over land, Rozsnyai said. When it became apparent last summer that one seaport had a high capacity, he explained, Transcom planners saw it as an opportunity.
“That port’s capacity will give us a really good handle on airlift capacity and our requirements with the commercial industry,” he said.
Commercial air and sea carriers work with Transcom officials to assist in the moves, Rozsnyai said.
For example, he said, a commercial ship returning from taking a load of cargo to the Middle East can stop in Kuwait, fill up with U.S. military cargo, and continue on to the United States. It’s more cost-effective to use a ship already on an established route than to pull a military ship out of dry dock and prepare it to make the trips, he explained.
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service
|
The drawdown from Iraq, which began Sept. 1 after combat operations ceased, now stands at nearly 60 percent complete for U.S. military equipment, officials said.
Transcom has five months to bring home the remaining troops and the last 1 million pieces of military equipment.
Rozsnyai told American Forces Press Service in an Aug. 1 telephone interview that he had just returned from a “tabletop” organizing meeting in Kuwait.
“Everything we’re seeing is tracking well,” he said.
The bulk of equipment is returning to the United States, Rozsnyai said, and the Army claims 90 percent of the load. U.S. Central Command officials decide whether equipment goes back to the United States, to the Iraqis for their forces, or is sent to Afghanistan to help the war effort there, he explained.
Meanwhile, he added, the possibility that the Iraqi government may ask for some U.S. forces to remain in Iraq beyond this year affects decisions about the equipment that has yet to be brought out.
“Part of the equipment uncertainty is whether the Iraqi government will want the United States to stay longer,” Rozsnyai said. “Requirements for equipment are being balanced between [Afghanistan and Iraq],” he added.
After destinations are decided, Transcom officials begin the mammoth task of moving troops and equipment.
Iraq’s terrain and infrastructure are more favorable for this type of effort than Afghanistan’s rough and rocky landscape, the major said.
“It’s easy to get a convoy to Kuwait [or] Jordan,” he said. “The processes we have in Iraq are working well.”
Still, minor modifications would make the roads better for transporting equipment, he said, to provide “wiggle room” if it’s needed in November and December. Other improvements are in the works to make Transcom’s job easier, Rozsnyai said.
“We’re working on improving lines of communication, and a service route for critical, sensitive cargo, to give us another option out there,” he said.
But not everything has been moving out of Iraq over land, Rozsnyai said. When it became apparent last summer that one seaport had a high capacity, he explained, Transcom planners saw it as an opportunity.
“That port’s capacity will give us a really good handle on airlift capacity and our requirements with the commercial industry,” he said.
Commercial air and sea carriers work with Transcom officials to assist in the moves, Rozsnyai said.
For example, he said, a commercial ship returning from taking a load of cargo to the Middle East can stop in Kuwait, fill up with U.S. military cargo, and continue on to the United States. It’s more cost-effective to use a ship already on an established route than to pull a military ship out of dry dock and prepare it to make the trips, he explained.
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service
President Barack Obama today announced a series of administration initiatives to help military veterans find jobs.
During remarks at the Navy Yard here, the president proposed a set of tax credits for companies hiring veterans, announced a new task force to develop reforms that will help service members transition to civilian jobs or higher education, and challenged industry to hire more veterans.
"Today's veterans are Americans who have done their duty," the commander in chief said. "They have fought our wars with valor, from the jungles of Vietnam to the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan."
But many of those veterans find when they leave service that their military skills don't qualify them for civilian jobs, the president said.
As of June, a million veterans were unemployed, and the jobless rate for post-9/11 vets was 13.3 percent, administration officials said. Another million veterans will return to the civilian workforce over the next five years, they said.
Obama cited a former combat medic and a financial specialist as examples of veterans facing difficulties transferring military skills to the civilian market.
Nick Colgin deployed to Afghanistan as a combat medic with the 82nd Airborne Division, Obama said. During his tour, Colgin saved the life of a French soldier who was shot in the head, and helped 42 people escape from a flooding river.
"He earned a Bronze Star for his actions," the president said. "But when Nick got back home to Wyoming, he couldn't get a job as a first responder."
Colgin had to take classes he easily could have taught before he could get a civilian job with the same duties he performed daily in Afghanistan, Obama said.
Maria Canales was a financial specialist in the Army who'd served in Iraq and finished a degree in business management when she returned, the president said. Still, she couldn't find a job in accounting or finance.
"If you can save a life in Afghanistan, you can save a life in an ambulance in Wyoming," he said. "If you can oversee millions of dollars in assets in Iraq, you can help a business balance its books here at home."
Government must do more to help veterans transition from military to civilian work, Obama said.
Administration officials said a new task force, led by the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, will develop reforms, including a "reverse boot camp," to ensure service members receive the training, education, and credentials they need to transition to the civilian workforce or to pursue higher education.
"In addition, we'll make it easier for veterans to go to their local, one-stop career center and get help pursuing a career that fits them best. These steps will help bridge part of the gap between veterans looking for work and companies looking to hire," the president said.
The Labor Department will establish the centers to deliver career development and job search services to transitioning veterans, administration officials said.
"But that's only part of the equation. The other half is about encouraging companies to do their part," Obama said.
As incentive to hire veterans, the president proposed a new "Returning Heroes" tax credit for companies that hire unemployed veterans, and an increase in the existing tax credit for hiring disabled veterans.
The Returning Heroes credit would offer a maximum of $2,400 for every short-term and $4,800 for every long-term unemployed veteran hire, officials said.
A "Wounded Warriors" tax credit would increase the existing credit for firms that hire veterans with service-connected disabilities who have been unemployed for six months or more to a maximum of $9,600 per veteran, and up to $4,800 for all other veterans with a service-connected disability, officials added.
"Finally, we're challenging the private sector to hire or train 100,000 unemployed post-9/11 veterans or their spouses by the end of 2013," Obama said.
Many companies already have hired or committed to hiring veterans as part of the "Joining Forces" campaign championed by first lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, the president said.
"Siemens, for example, recently met their goal of hiring 300 veterans, so they're aiming to hire 150 more by December," he said. "Microsoft is helping more than 10,000 veterans get IT-certified over the next two years. And, today, groups from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to Accenture to Lockheed Martin have all agreed to do their part to help veterans get back in the workforce."
Joining Forces will lead the veteran-hiring effort with businesses and industry, the president said.
"Today we're saying to our veterans, 'You fought for us, and now we're fighting for you -- for the jobs and opportunities that you need to keep your families strong and to keep America competitive in the 21st century,'" Obama said. "And at a time when there is so much work to be done in this country, we need everyone's help to do it."
Also today, the Labor Department announced 23 grants totaling nearly $5.5 million to provide homeless veterans with job training. The grants are being awarded by the department's Veterans' Employment and Training Service through the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program.
By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service
During remarks at the Navy Yard here, the president proposed a set of tax credits for companies hiring veterans, announced a new task force to develop reforms that will help service members transition to civilian jobs or higher education, and challenged industry to hire more veterans.
"Today's veterans are Americans who have done their duty," the commander in chief said. "They have fought our wars with valor, from the jungles of Vietnam to the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan."
But many of those veterans find when they leave service that their military skills don't qualify them for civilian jobs, the president said.
As of June, a million veterans were unemployed, and the jobless rate for post-9/11 vets was 13.3 percent, administration officials said. Another million veterans will return to the civilian workforce over the next five years, they said.
Obama cited a former combat medic and a financial specialist as examples of veterans facing difficulties transferring military skills to the civilian market.
Nick Colgin deployed to Afghanistan as a combat medic with the 82nd Airborne Division, Obama said. During his tour, Colgin saved the life of a French soldier who was shot in the head, and helped 42 people escape from a flooding river.
"He earned a Bronze Star for his actions," the president said. "But when Nick got back home to Wyoming, he couldn't get a job as a first responder."
Colgin had to take classes he easily could have taught before he could get a civilian job with the same duties he performed daily in Afghanistan, Obama said.
Maria Canales was a financial specialist in the Army who'd served in Iraq and finished a degree in business management when she returned, the president said. Still, she couldn't find a job in accounting or finance.
"If you can save a life in Afghanistan, you can save a life in an ambulance in Wyoming," he said. "If you can oversee millions of dollars in assets in Iraq, you can help a business balance its books here at home."
Government must do more to help veterans transition from military to civilian work, Obama said.
Administration officials said a new task force, led by the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, will develop reforms, including a "reverse boot camp," to ensure service members receive the training, education, and credentials they need to transition to the civilian workforce or to pursue higher education.
"In addition, we'll make it easier for veterans to go to their local, one-stop career center and get help pursuing a career that fits them best. These steps will help bridge part of the gap between veterans looking for work and companies looking to hire," the president said.
The Labor Department will establish the centers to deliver career development and job search services to transitioning veterans, administration officials said.
"But that's only part of the equation. The other half is about encouraging companies to do their part," Obama said.
As incentive to hire veterans, the president proposed a new "Returning Heroes" tax credit for companies that hire unemployed veterans, and an increase in the existing tax credit for hiring disabled veterans.
The Returning Heroes credit would offer a maximum of $2,400 for every short-term and $4,800 for every long-term unemployed veteran hire, officials said.
A "Wounded Warriors" tax credit would increase the existing credit for firms that hire veterans with service-connected disabilities who have been unemployed for six months or more to a maximum of $9,600 per veteran, and up to $4,800 for all other veterans with a service-connected disability, officials added.
"Finally, we're challenging the private sector to hire or train 100,000 unemployed post-9/11 veterans or their spouses by the end of 2013," Obama said.
Many companies already have hired or committed to hiring veterans as part of the "Joining Forces" campaign championed by first lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, the president said.
"Siemens, for example, recently met their goal of hiring 300 veterans, so they're aiming to hire 150 more by December," he said. "Microsoft is helping more than 10,000 veterans get IT-certified over the next two years. And, today, groups from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to Accenture to Lockheed Martin have all agreed to do their part to help veterans get back in the workforce."
Joining Forces will lead the veteran-hiring effort with businesses and industry, the president said.
"Today we're saying to our veterans, 'You fought for us, and now we're fighting for you -- for the jobs and opportunities that you need to keep your families strong and to keep America competitive in the 21st century,'" Obama said. "And at a time when there is so much work to be done in this country, we need everyone's help to do it."
Also today, the Labor Department announced 23 grants totaling nearly $5.5 million to provide homeless veterans with job training. The grants are being awarded by the department's Veterans' Employment and Training Service through the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program.
By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service
The Secretary of the Army John McHugh announced today a change in the length of future unit operational deployments from 12 months to nine months. This change will be fully implemented by April 2012, and applies to division-level-and-below units. This policy will not affect personnel or units currently deployed or deploying prior to Jan. 1, 2012. The deployment period for high demand and low density units and individual deployers will remain one year.
The reduced deployment length will improve soldier and family quality of life while continuing to meet operational requirements and is an important step in sustaining the all-volunteer-force. This policy change is consistent with secretary of defense policies for utilization of the total force. Implementation of this change is based on the projected demand for Army forces, and is contingent on global security conditions and combatant commander requirements.
For information regarding this announcement, contact Lt. Col. Craig Ratcliff, at (703) 697-7550, craig.ratcliff@us.army.mil.
The reduced deployment length will improve soldier and family quality of life while continuing to meet operational requirements and is an important step in sustaining the all-volunteer-force. This policy change is consistent with secretary of defense policies for utilization of the total force. Implementation of this change is based on the projected demand for Army forces, and is contingent on global security conditions and combatant commander requirements.
For information regarding this announcement, contact Lt. Col. Craig Ratcliff, at (703) 697-7550, craig.ratcliff@us.army.mil.
The legislation President Barack Obama signed into law yesterday to raise the nation's debt ceiling and control long-term spending does not specifically call for more spending cuts than Defense Department officials already were planning, a senior Pentagon official said today.
The president asked department officials earlier this year to find $400 billion in savings, and Pentagon officials have been working to identify that amount over the next 10 or so years, officials have said. "That is hard to do, but manageable," a senior department official told reporters during a background briefing today. All Pentagon-related spending cuts would come from the department's base budget, and not from its overseas operating fund, which supplies operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and other foreign locations, the official said.
Decisions about the spending cuts are not made arbitrarily, he said. "As we work to accommodate these changes in the defense budget, we do so with policy and strategy in mind," he explained.
The new law raises the government's borrowing ability by $2.1 trillion, which officials said would eliminate the need for further debt ceiling increases until 2013.
In its effort to curb spending, the law caps discretionary spending for all federal departments for 10 years in an effort to save more than $900 billion. A White House fact sheet released yesterday estimates the Defense Department's share of that goal at $350 billion, which the Pentagon official said is inclusive of the $400 billion figure officials already were working on. He acknowledged, however, that "there are a lot of numbers floating around."
In a message to the Defense Department workforce today, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said the estimated reductions in defense spending associated with the law are in line with what DOD officials have been planning. "I believe we can implement these reductions while maintaining the excellence of the military," he said.
The law, however, also creates a bipartisan committee of Congress members charged with identifying an additional $1.5 trillion in budget savings by Nov. 23. While there is no way to know what the committee will recommend, the Pentagon official said in today's background briefing, "I would hope they will not make further cuts in defense, because we've done a lot already."
The official said he assumes the committee will focus on finding savings in entitlement spending, such as a Medicaid and Medicare, and through tax revenue. "Large, additional cuts would be a problem for us, as far as our national defense," he said.
An "unacceptable" scenario for the department, the official said, is if Congress fails to act on the committee's recommendations by the law's deadline of Dec. 23. If that happens, an automatic across-government spending cut of $1.2 trillion over 10 years will go into effect.
Even with exemptions for veteran, military and civilian pay, he said, the process known as "sequestration" likely would cut an additional $50 billion to $60 billion more per year from the defense budget, leading to furloughs, layoffs and disruptions of programs.
But the official emphasized that the Pentagon is not planning for such an event. "I don't think that will happen," he said. "The whole point is for that not to happen."
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
The president asked department officials earlier this year to find $400 billion in savings, and Pentagon officials have been working to identify that amount over the next 10 or so years, officials have said. "That is hard to do, but manageable," a senior department official told reporters during a background briefing today. All Pentagon-related spending cuts would come from the department's base budget, and not from its overseas operating fund, which supplies operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and other foreign locations, the official said.
Decisions about the spending cuts are not made arbitrarily, he said. "As we work to accommodate these changes in the defense budget, we do so with policy and strategy in mind," he explained.
The new law raises the government's borrowing ability by $2.1 trillion, which officials said would eliminate the need for further debt ceiling increases until 2013.
In its effort to curb spending, the law caps discretionary spending for all federal departments for 10 years in an effort to save more than $900 billion. A White House fact sheet released yesterday estimates the Defense Department's share of that goal at $350 billion, which the Pentagon official said is inclusive of the $400 billion figure officials already were working on. He acknowledged, however, that "there are a lot of numbers floating around."
In a message to the Defense Department workforce today, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said the estimated reductions in defense spending associated with the law are in line with what DOD officials have been planning. "I believe we can implement these reductions while maintaining the excellence of the military," he said.
The law, however, also creates a bipartisan committee of Congress members charged with identifying an additional $1.5 trillion in budget savings by Nov. 23. While there is no way to know what the committee will recommend, the Pentagon official said in today's background briefing, "I would hope they will not make further cuts in defense, because we've done a lot already."
The official said he assumes the committee will focus on finding savings in entitlement spending, such as a Medicaid and Medicare, and through tax revenue. "Large, additional cuts would be a problem for us, as far as our national defense," he said.
An "unacceptable" scenario for the department, the official said, is if Congress fails to act on the committee's recommendations by the law's deadline of Dec. 23. If that happens, an automatic across-government spending cut of $1.2 trillion over 10 years will go into effect.
Even with exemptions for veteran, military and civilian pay, he said, the process known as "sequestration" likely would cut an additional $50 billion to $60 billion more per year from the defense budget, leading to furloughs, layoffs and disruptions of programs.
But the official emphasized that the Pentagon is not planning for such an event. "I don't think that will happen," he said. "The whole point is for that not to happen."
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
President Obama nominated Ashton Cater Tuesday to become the next Deputy Secretary of Defense. If confirmed, Dr. Carter will take over for Secretary William Lynn, who has held the position since 2009.
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