BASE NEWS
AIR FORCE NEWS
Deer activity increases on JBA, Page 2
DCMILITARY.COM
Ceremonial Support: the face, spirit, sound of Air Force, Page 4
AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION OF COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS AT JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MD.
New thinking for old problems at Potomac Piranhas Hackathon BY LESLIE C. SMITH STAFF WRITER
On Oct. 25, creative minds from all aspects of business, nonprofit, government, education and environmental advocacy came together to find solutions to the Prince George’s County’s watershed and storm water management issues with its inaugural Potomac Piranhas Hackathon. Intended to launch a collaborative watershed and storm water management program focused on innovation, capital and entrepreneurship, the event also was designed to build excitement and momentum for the Potomac Piranhas Pitch, where venture capitalist will hear clean water solution pitches and then decide if to invest in the solution, with experts and business development specialist as judges to be held Jan. 31 at the U.S. Patent and Trade Office in Alexandria. Organized by Prince George’s Green, Alexandria Emerging Technology Center, Livability Project, Water Environment Federation, Choose Clean Water Coalition and Groundwork Anacostia, the
Black Union Civil War Soldiers Commemorate Emancipation, Page 5
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | VOL. 3 NO. 45
EOD Purple Heart recipient shares story BY MASTER SGT. TAMMIE MOORE
AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON PUBLIC AFFAIRS
PHOTO/LESLIE SMITH
Mikhail Slutsky presents his breakout group’s ideas.
idea was to bring different minds into one room to find new methods for management of the environmental issues in the county. “For us the environmental challenges we are facing are so great and we know that the government doesn’t have all the answers to meet them and so we are happy to open our doors, literally and figuratively, to other people to give us ideas, innovation, and their resources so we can
see PROBLEMS, page 9
Wired up, fired up CS radio frequency transmissions technician. 11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS Each of the primary missions of the 744 are essential Wired up and fired up, the to the base. unit responsible for estabLMR communications lishing and maintaining com- include, flight-line radios, municative capabilities for which allow the command Team Andrews is the 744th post talk to base operations Communications Squadron. and the weather squadron. The main focuses of this The giant voice loudspeaksquadron are land-to-mobile ers around base which play radio communications, the gi- the national anthem and taps ant voice, and the public ad- each day also provide alert dress system. notifications of inclement “Our mission is to ensure weather, exercises, incidents communication options are on base and base closures. always ready and available Lastly, the public address for the base and all the insystem provides audio/visual dividual missions that take services for retirement cerplace here,” said Airman 1st see WIRED, page 2 Class Jeshurun Marbury, 744 BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS JOSHUA R. M. DEWBERRY
COMMUNITY
It only takes a moment to change a life forever. For Tech. Sgt. Christopher Ferrell that moment occurred in 2009, when the explosive ordnance disposal technician, was conducting a direct action operation in Sangin, Afghanistan. The operation was part of a blackout mission to kill or capture a top-tier improvised explosive device facilitator. The mission was a six kilometer movement conducted with night-vision goggles so the team’s presence remained undetected. It was deemed a highrisk mission due to the heavy saturation of IEDs in the area. Ferrell, then a staff sergeant, was serving as the team leader. After clearing four areas with another EOD team the Airmen regrouped to create a plan of attack for the next area. “After gaining entry to the compound we began a staggered sweep of the area with our mine detectors,” said Ferrell, a native of Bossier City, Louisiana. “At approximately 2 a.m., Dec. 15, 2009, one of my teammates,
U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/MASTER SGT. TAMMIE MOORE
Maj. Mark Fogle presents Tech. Sgt. Christopher Ferrell with a Purple Heart Medal during a ceremony. Ferrell was presented the Purple Heart Medal for injuries he received while conducting a direct action operation in Sangin, Afghanistan, in 2009. Ferrell is an explosive ordnance disposal technician assigned to the 11th Civil Engineer Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Md. Fogle is the 366th Training Squadron/Detachment 3 commander at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
Tech. Sgt. Tony Campbell, The blast hurled Ferrell and stepped on an estimated 20-30 Staff Sgt. Derrick Victor, anpound IED. I was about 5 feet other teammate, nearly 15 feet away from Campbell when the away into a wall. It also injured detonation occurred. He died see PURPLE HEART, page 6 within moments.”
PGCC Foundation Inc. honor Partners for Success BY BOBBY JONES
STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST
A Partners for Success Awards Dinner and Gala was hosted by the Prince George’s Community College Foundation Inc. in partnership with Prince George’s Community College at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Md., Oct. 29 The esteemed event honors some of Washington DC’s most influential civic and corporate business leaders during the biennial awards dinner hosted by the Prince George’s Community College Foundation Inc.
Among the honored award recipients were Senator Barbara Mikulski, (D, Md.); Stephanie Hill, Vice President and General Manger of Information Systems and Global Solutions Lockheed Martin; and Martha Gay, Senior Director of External Affairs, Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States. “I really feel that I should honor the people involved in both Prince George’s County and the many supporters of PGCC Foundation. This foundation gives scholarships to our boys and girls so they can go on to great careers in the Cyber security world and biotech.
I think it’s just fantastic,” said Senator Barbara Mikulski, who was honored for her support of higher education for students, healthcare, STEM, Cyber Security and veteran affairs. Milkulski added, “And then there’s their turbo president, Dr. Charlene Duke, who has brought this college to a new era. It has 44,000 students and six locations. The students are majoring in cutting-edge fields that are leading in the work force. So it’s education, for edification. But it’s also edification for jobs,” said Mikulski. “So I’m very proud of her, the school
see SUCCESS, page 10
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Hot tickets around town November 7
Day of the Dead Celebration/El Dia de los Muertos 12–3 p.m. The Walters Art Museum, Graham Auditorium, 600 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 Whether you’re an adult or a child, you’ll enjoy the museum’s second Day of the Dead celebration. This jovial Mexican holiday commemorates the lives of family and friends who have died. Visitors will enjoy traditional Mexican dance performances, a live mariachi band, food, and art activities for the whole family. The museum is hosting a community altar in the Graham Auditorium and members of the public are encouraged to bring items in honor of loved ones who have passed away. Free museum admission and free entry to the special exhibition Walter Wick: Games, Gizmos and Toys in the Attic.
November 11
9a.m.-noon Women Veterans ROCK! Veterans Day Rally and Celebration Arlington Cemetery Women’s National Memorial Sponsored by The Healthy Caregiver Community Foundation. Featuring Coletta Renee, soloist and classically trained opera singer; and C*A*M*M*O’s Voices of Service Choir.
November 14 and 15
Air Force’s Tops in Blue 6:30 p.m. U.S. Air Base Theater, Joint Base Andrews Free night of family entertainment Hear exciting sounds of Bruno Mars, Pharrell Williams and Daft Punk and other artists. This year’s show also showcases great country music of artists like Jerry Reed, Florida Georgia Line, Dierks Bentley and the Pistol Annies. The Tops In Blue show will also feature the great patriotic music that honors our nation and its heroes. All combined with costumes, lights and choreography. For more information visit www.topsinblue.com.
November 14
8 to 10 p.m. All Veteran Performer Comedy Night Fundraiser Crystal City Sports Pub 529 23rd Street S Arlington, VA Presented by Operation Renewed Hope and hosted by Mike Brown featuring all Military Veteran performers. Veterans attend free Online: $10 single, $15 pair, $20 at the door
COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS Andrews Gazette is published by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force or any branch of the United States military. The appearance of advertising in these publications, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the products and services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, martial status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non merit factor of the purchases, user or patron.
Maxine Minar, president mminar@dcmilitary.com John Rives, publisher
jrives@dcmilitary.com
Deirdre Parry, page design dparry@gazette.net Leslie Smith, editor lsmith@dcmilitary.com Bobby Jones, photographer bjones@dcmilitary.com
Friday, November 7, 2014
Retiree Corner Home Loan Milestone
The Department of Veterans Affairs has guaranteed 21 million home loans since the Home Loan Guaranty program was established in 1944 as part of the original Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, the “GI Bill.” The Home Loan Program provides housing-related benefits and services to make home ownership possible and affordable for veterans, service members and surviving spouses, who want to buy, build, repair or adapt a home. Nearly 90 percent of all VA loans are made with no down payment. In FY 2014, the program guaranteed roughly 35,000 loans per month. The total value of all outstanding VA loans exceeds $380 billion. The program also approved 1,253 grants to seriously disabled veterans for the purchase, modification, or construction of a home specially adapted to meet their needs. Nearly 80,000 borrowers were helped to avoid foreclosure. These actions saved taxpayers nearly $2.8 billion in avoided claim payments. Veterans may obtain a certificate of eligibility for a VA-guaranteed home loan through the joint Department
of Defense-VA web portal eBenefits, or by contacting their lender. For more information, visit www. benefits.va.gov/homeloans or call 1 800 827-1000.
fense Department’s lodging website. For reservations at Air Force transient lodging, call 1 888 2356343.
Base Lodging Available
Tricare’s Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Pilot has been extended through Dec. 31, when beneficiaries will transition to the new Tricare Autism Care Demo (ACD). This ensures no beneficiaries receiving ABA will have a gap in coverage. Tricare will use the time to polish the program and educate affected beneficiaries. It also allows Tricare to transition beneficiaries in each of the three current ABA programs to this unified benefit. Beneficiaries don’t need to do anything. They will transition seamlessly to the ACD. For more about ABA coverage, visit www.tricare.mil/ACD.
Military members, retirees and Defense Department civilians are eligible to book lodging at hundreds of military-owned accommodations all over the world. Facilities range from standard hotel rooms on military installations to campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks to armed forces recreation centers in Garmisch, Germany; Honolulu; Seoul, South Korea; and Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. Each service, including the Coast Guard, runs its own lodging program for official travelers and offers empty rooms on a space-available basis to leisure travelers from every branch. For those willing to do a little homework, military lodging can open doors to affordable yearround getaways. Guests generally save about 40 percent compared to civilian hotels. For more details about recreational lodging options, visit the service morale, welfare and recreation websites or the De-
Autism Pilot Extended
The Retiree Activities Office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visit the office in Building 1604 at California and Colorado Avenues or call 301 9812726. Call before your visit to ensure a volunteer is on duty. The RAO has a website at www.andrews.af.mil.
Deer activity increases on JBA BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN J. SONNIER
11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
During fall, deer related activity increases as they seek food and enter their breeding season, or “rut”. With the high population of deer on Joint Base Andrews and the surrounding areas, motorists are encouraged to be aware of posted signs and on the lookout for deer in the distance. “Deer can be encountered along the roadway at any time of the day, but the peak times are dusk and dawn,” Tech. Sgt. Cody Sturgeon, 11th Wing Ground Safety NCO incharge, said. As a herd animal, deer travel in groups, meaning they all might not be visible when seen from the road. According to Maryland.gov, “if a driver sees a deer standing near the road, they should slow down
WIRED, from page 1 emonies, change of commands, commander’s calls. “We have assisted dozens of retirement and change-of-command ceremonies over this past summer, so we were kept very busy with accommodating every event with the necessary equipment,” said Airman 1st Class Maria Parales, 744 CS radio frequency transmissions technician. “Our mission is very broad, but our focus is to support the commander and maintain the infrastructure of base communica-
U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN J. SONNIER
A deer crosses Perimeter Road Oct. 27 on Joint Base Andrews. During the fall, deer related activity begins to increase and drivers are reminded to be extra vigilant while driving.
and sound the horn to scare the deer away.” Sturgeon stated that whistles, like those available at a local auto store, and other gimmicks should not be relied on as they have not been proven to work. “If a deer happens to run in tion operations.” In comparison to the many service members assigned to Andrews, it only takes a dedicated few to accomplish the mission. “There are about 270 people in the squadron, but we support the thousands of service members on base,” said Master Sgt. Juan Mendoza, 744 CS NCO-in-charge of radio frequency transmissions. “My favorite part about my job is the people I work with. This is a good unit with leadership who really care, not just accomplishing the mission, but taking care of its people.”
the road, don’t swerve to avoid it,” Sturgeon said. “Most accidents occur when the driver tries to avoid the animal.” If a driver is involved in an accident on base, they should contact the law enforcement desk at 301981-2001.
U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS JOSHUA R. M. DEWBERRY
Airman 1st Class Ralph Fogg (right) and Senior Airman Robert Lewis, 744th Communication Squadron radio frequency technicians, examine motherboard components for a giant voice system.
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Objective Rally Point offers a chance to network, draw strength cess stories I had one person call me and tell me, ‘I was closing my business that day and I On Oct. 28, Objective Rally met someone here that hired me Point held its monthly network- and gave me a subcontract and I ing breakfast at the Army Navy can save my business and its all County Club in Arlington, Va. I needed.’ “ Finishing its third year, ObjecDougherty shared the stories tive Rally Point, provides a sup- of many people making the conportive environment to make tacts needed through networkcontacts, network, and draw ing at the event strength and support. “We’ve been able to provide “Objective Rally Point is a a real resource to the commumilitary concept. It’s the place nity. And from that we have this that you meet; gather your great spirit that is so unique; forces before you assault an ob- that’s what makes this special. jective. And we try to emulate We have a core of about 60 perthat here; this is a place where cent, 70 percent, return regulars veterans – especially those in and about 30 percent new faces; business, seeking to enter into and so we have this constant inthe business world, or those in flux of new faces and those new transition looking for employ- people become regulars and they ment – where we can gather bring their friends.” find strength together find reDougherty was able to point sources together before trying out example after example of atto accomplish the mission,” said tendees, sharing one story of a Lee Dougherty, Principal at the gentleman, “that does website law firm Offit Kurman, PA and design and sat down at a table the host/organizer of Objective and is now working for one of Rally Point. the companies that he met here; “My vision, when I started and has a great contract. That’s this, was to bring veterans to- a great success story – a young gether; that there is strength vet starting his business and when we gather together. My able to find work here. That’s idea was to bring mentors and really the goal to find a way to protégés together, to just find a bring veterans together to supway we could support each other port each other and, if nothing and be more successful. I’m very else, even if you don’t find a confortunate; I get to hear the suc- tractor or you’re not hired or you BY LESLIE C. SMITH STAFF WRITER
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the event, the event has come to feature a number of diverse and informational speakers. “When we started we didn’t have a lot of speakers, the goal was networking but we have been really fortunate to have fantastic speakers.” Past speakers have included the general counsel and vice president of Lockheed Martin as well as government agency directors discussing how small business can market themselves to government agencies and large primes. Beyond informational speakers, they have included more of the topical speakers like the day’s speaker Kris Paronto, one of the CIA contractors in Libya, who shared his story and answered PHOTO/LELSIE SMITH questions from the audience. “The speakers are interesting Lee Dougherty addresses the full ballroom of attendees, preparand educational but it’s the neting to introduce the speaker, Kris Paronto. work we draw strength from so don’t employ someone else, you erans, that’s fantastic, he under- we’ve been able to build a great get sense of fellowship and sup- stands veteran-owned business, network over the last few years port. It’s been a fantastic experi- offers a certain perspective. I’m which has contributed greatly to ence.” a disabled veteran and attorney. the success of many of the comDougherty noted the unique There aren’t too many attorneys panies here.” Typically a morning event understanding brought by those who are disabled veterans workwho are veterans. “We bring ing with veteran-owned busi- held the fourth Tuesday of the those resources together from nesses. I have a unique under- month at the Army Navy Counpeople with a unique under- standing which gives benefit to try Club, the next event will be standing of what veterans are the community.” an evening event Nov. 10 at the going through. If we can bring As the event has evolved, National Veterans Center due to in a banker who themselves is a and while the networking base the Thanksgiving holiday that veteran, works closely with vet- has remained the foundation of week.
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Ceremonial Support: the face, spirit, sound of Air Force emonies per day, and more than 2,500 ceremonies annually. “Our mission allows the world to witness another side of the Air Force, other An Airman performs the national an- than just the force that we can apply in them during a live national television wartime situations. It shows a dedicabroadcast while members of the Air tion to the Air Force’s history and tradiForce Honor Guard stand proudly with tions, upholding the heritage of our serthe American flag. These men and wom- vice. In some cases, we may be the only en stand at attention as the President visual reference many of our citizens of the United States addresses a nation. have of the Air Force,” Fish said. Behind the cameras, Airmen and civilAccording to the Honor Guard, its ians monitor every movement to ensure more than 210 Airmen are selectively perfection. This is the Air Force District manned and organized into three cerof Washington ceremonial mission. emonial flights, made up of colors, bear“Our mission is absolutely essential ers and firing party personnel. The U.S. to the National Capital Region and Air Force Honor Guard also operates worldwide mission. We are a visual re- the U.S. Air Force Drill Team, whose minder to the public of what it means to mission is to promote the Air Force misbe an Airman,” said Master Sgt. Duane sion by showcasing drill performances Fish, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard cer- at public and military venues to recruit, emonial flight superintendent. “Our retain, and inspire Airmen. skillsets affirm to the nation that we The U.S. Air Force Band supports are dedicated to excellence in all we do.” ceremonies alongside the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial support is one of three Honor Guard. According to the Band, core mission sets that AFDW is respon- Airmen musicians carry out ceremonial sible for. This support can vary from par- support around the globe using music to ticipating in National Special Security create bonds between the United States Events such as the State of the Union and the worldwide community. Address or Presidential Inaugurations The Band’s six ensemble units range to providing official honors during fu- from a formal concert band to a sixnerals at Arlington National Cemetery. piece rock band. Performances at events One of the most visual aspects of the from formal parades to sporting events AFDW ceremonial mission is the U.S. advance Air Force community relations, Air Force Honor Guard. These Airmen recruiting, and morale. represent the Air Force to the American An important focus is also given to public and the world. The ceremonial rendering dignified final honors at Arflights perform an average of 10 cer- lington National Cemetery, said Senior BY STAFF SGT. MATT DAVIS AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON PUBLIC AFFAIRS
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The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team performs June 26 at Mount Rushmore. Ceremonial support is one of three core mission sets that AFDW is responsible for. This support can vary from participating in National Special Security Events such as the State of the Union Address or Presidential Inaugurations to providing official honors during funerals at Arlington National Cemetery.
Master Sgt. Scott Hinds, U.S. Air Force Band drum major. “There is a strong piece of message we have that goes along with showcasing Air Force excellence,” said Hinds. “We think of our ceremonial mission as our number one mission and a large part of that being funerals at Arlington.. One of the most important things we do is honor that service commitment and that service to the family in a way that shows how much we respect the service member.” The primary focus of AFDW’s ceremonial support mission is rendering dignified final honors, said Col. Lisa Tice, AFDW command chaplain. “Daily, we honor the fallen and care
for grieving families. We touch people around the world by helping people strengthen their spiritual core. In the future, we are looking at ways to support our Airmen in locations throughout the world,” said Tice. The AFDW Chaplain Corps also provides spiritual resiliency and religious accommodation support in the NCR, said Tice. “We help sustain the men and women who provide transportation for the President of the United States and other distinguished visitors, medical personnel who provide support to military personnel and retirees throughout the NCR,
see CEREMONIAL, page 8
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Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 7, 2014
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Black Union Civil War Soldiers Commemorate Emancipation Anniversary BY BOBBY JONES
STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST
As the rustic smell of burnt wood and leaves wafted through the air, a Black Union Civil War soldier prepared to cook a meal over an open flame. The 1864 encampment re-enactment portrayed the life of a soldier prior to bedding down for the night on the grounds of the William Bates Center in Annapolis, Md., Oct. 25. The event, sponsored by the Annapolis 1864 Heritage Commission, City of Annapolis, marked the 150th Anniversary of Emancipation from slavery in Maryland – the first slave state to voluntarily free its enslaved people by popular vote. The event was one of many celebrations of Maryland’s Emancipation Day across the state. Several Black Civil War reenactors, from various U.S. Colored Troop (USCT) state regiments were dressed in Union blue military regalia. Their purpose was to educate the public about the African American Civil War soldiers’ proud heritage and preservation of their contributions to American history by authentically interpreting the life of Black Union Civil War soldiers and their officers. The regiments set up a makeshift encampment, displaying various literature, authentic military weaponry, tent setup, weapon inspections and marching in cadence. The units also cooked meals on an open fire, giving visitors a vivid look into the life of an African American soldier during the Civil War. The USCT members also re-enacted how children were enlisted and trained to march with wood-carved rifles during the event.
As visitors browsed over the 18th Century artifacts on display, the re-enactors also answered questions from the onlookers with their studied accounts of the USCT regiments. “When I had an American History class on the Civil War in high school, there was no mention of Black Soldiers,” said Leon Vaughan, a 71-year-old re-enactor of the 26th Infantry USCT. “There was also no mention of the approximately 30,000 Black sailors who served in the U.S. Navy before the Emancipation Proclamation,” said Vaughan to a small captivated audience. He further noted, “In fact, by the end of the war, 20 percent of the Navy was Black. And the only criteria for getting in the Navy was you had to be one thing – an able bodied Seaman,” said the retired New Jersey Turnpike Authority electronics technician. Corporal Kevin Barrett, a historian for the city of Newburg, NY, had written intensely about U.S. Colored Troops over the years, and was excited when he received an invitation to participate in the reenactment. “This was my first time participating in a piece of history that I’ve studied and written about for so long.” According to Barrett, a 26th Regiment Infantry USCT reenactor, “The 20th, 26th and 31st regiments were funded during the Civil War by the federal government.” One of the experiences visitors witnessed during the reenactment was seeing how the soldiers started fires to cook meals. Barrett collected bark and tree branches from around the compound. “Starting a fire for survival and food during this camp reenactment kind of reminds me
PHOTOS/BOBBY JONES
A group of U.S. Colored Troop re-enactors from various state regiments pose for a photo.
of my days in the Boy Scouts,” said Barrett, as he blew on the hot embers. “Boy Scouts was a time when I learned my basic needs were not in a microwave, they were in the ability to be able to cook over an open fire,” said Barrett, a 19-year USCT Civil War re-enactor. “It’s important for people to know that there were a 140 Black Civil War regiments, a 1,000 men each, which equates to 140,000 Black soldiers. And there were approximately 60,000 Black Naval members who served this country in every war since the revolution,” said Barrett. “We’re doing as much as we can to reenact and tell the story and validate the presence of African Americans who helped to shape this country. This is not an African American story, it’s an American story.” Ben Hawley, a USCT re-enactor since 1991, finds personal gratification in honoring his family legacy and representing his ancestor’s contributions. “My great, great, grand-
Ben Hawley, a USCT re-enactor, since 1991, shows how Black Union soldiers used the bayonet attached to a Springfield rifle. Hawley’s great, great, grandfather was in the 29th USCT Regiment out of Connecticut.
father was in the 29th USCT Regiment out of Connecticut. When I put on my uniform, it’s a testament to him and I feel like I’m reliving history in his name,” said Hawley. “We’ve been all over the U.S. trying to enlighten people. But our main objective is to educate our
youth, because so many of them just don’t know our history.” Among the veteran re-enactors were a few men who appeared as extras in the 1989 movie, “Glory,” an American Civil War drama, starring Denzel Washington, Morgan Free-
see EMANCIPATION, page 7
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Friday, November 7, 2014
PURPLE HEART, from page 1 Tech. Sgt. Tom Pilla, the other EOD team’s lead. “I remember a large amount of haze and a complete silence with the exception of severe ringing in my ears,” Ferrell said. “After the blast occurred, the only thing I could think about doing was getting to Campbell and Pilla.” The explosion caused severe lacerations to Pilla’s arm and the backside of his body. “I don’t remember a lot from the evening, but apparently I cleared a casualty collection point before three of us were medically evacuated to Camp Bastion Hospital,” Ferrell said. Two weeks after the explosion Ferrell returned to combat duty, though his life was changed forever. He was left with invisible battle wounds. He is still being treated for traumatic brain injury, wears a hearing aid in his left ear, and suffers from migraines. Despite these injuries Ferrell remains committed to serving his country. “I’m driven because the men and women who stand next to me and are willing to keep fighting knowing the risks we face,” he said. “Tom Pilla once told me that what we do here sets the paths for the next generation. How we carry ourselves speaks volumes of our character, and how our actions
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U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/MASTER SGT. TAMMIE MOORE
Lauren Ferrell holds her son, Maximus, as she listens to a speaker during a Purple Heart Medal presentation ceremony for her husband, Tech. Sgt. Christopher Ferrell, at the Air Force Memorial Oct. 31 in Arlington, Va. Ferrell was presented the Purple Heart Medal for injuries he received while conducting a direct action operation in Sangin, Afghanistan, in 2009. Ferrell is an explosive ordnance disposal technician assigned to the 11th Civil Engineer Squadron at Joint Base Andrews.
will determine how we are remembered. I hold his words close still to this day. Life can change in an instant, and will cause a ripple effect that will be felt, not only in your life, but in those around you as well. It is our responsibility, our charge, to save lives. It gives everyone else another shot at
getting home to their families, even if that means we sacrifice the chance to get back to see ours.” In 2010, Ferrell received a Bronze Star Medal from U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for his actions during the deployment. He also
received an Air Force Commendation Medal with Valor for his actions Dec. 15, 2009. “EOD technicians, pride ourselves in being the humble and quiet professionals,” said Maj. Mark Fogle, who was Ferrell’s commander at the 366th Training Squadron/Detachment 3, commander at Eglin Air Force
Base, Fla. “As a whole, we don’t seek accolades or make sure our actions are witnessed by others for the purpose of recognition. We see ourselves as a simple group of volunteers who love what we do and love our EOD family ... that, and we like to blow stuff up.” Nearly five years after the blast Fogle, a prior enlisted EOD technician who strives to share the story of those in the career field, presented a Purple Heart Medal to Ferrell. “Today’s ceremony speaks of just one of those stories,” he said. “It’s a story of being faced by our own mortality, of losing a brother, of perseverance, of having to push through that seemingly insurmountable moment when most people would freeze in fear ... and, it’s a story of selfless and courageous acts by one man, to put the safety of everyone else before his own and to complete the mission at hand.” The presentation left Ferrell with mixed emotions. “We lost a great man that evening and our lives are forever changed,” he said. “Campbell sacrificed his life and not a day goes by that I don’t think about him, Victor, or Pilla. It is a day cemented in my memory forever. The presentation of the Purple Heart serves as a reminder to me of the events of that evening and all the sacrifices made by my teammates ... my friends ....”
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EMANCIPATION, from page 5 man, and Matthew Broderick, who portrayed Colonel Robert G, Shaw, a white officer in charge of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, one of the first known Black regiments. The soldiers shared their perspectives on how the movie shed light on the valiant African Americans who fought in the Civil War. Maj. Michael A. Hill, a medical doctor in Washington D.C., and member of the 4th Infantry Regiment USCT joined in 1989. He was unaware of the movie Glory. “I overheard a few of my regiment brothers talking about going down to Georgia where the movie was being filmed to try out for it. I had only been on my job for two weeks and didn’t have any vacation time yet. I figured this was a once in a life-time opportunity to be in a movie, so I asked my company if I could take vacation without pay,” said Hill, a physician of 31-years. “They told me I didn’t have to do that; I could just take advanced leave and the rest is history. I believe that 95 percent of us would have done the movie for free, but I made a total of $610 for two weeks.” Hill answered questions from a small group of visitors about an authentic 1800-era capital amputation kit he had on display. The kit was used to operate on badly wounded soldiers in the Civil War. “During that time they would use a capital amputation saw to cut off major limbs of patients in just under 7 minutes.” He also made a comparison to a modern replica of the capital am-
Corporal Kevin Barrett, left, 26th Regiment Infantry U.S. Colored Troop reenactor, examines an authentic 1851 U.S. Navy Colt pistol, as Corporal Kelly Washington observes.
putation instruments used today. “This equipment is very similar to what orthopedic surgeons used, until the 20th century,” said the 61-year-old physician. He also illustrated the use of a bullet probe used to determine the track and depth of a bullet embedded in a soldier. “It’s much like the one that was used on President Lincoln,” Hill added. Mel Reid, a Civil War re-enactor with the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, Company B, noted that there were more than 200,000 combined USCTs and Navy members who served nationwide during the Civil War. “There was an abolitionists rally at the Fredrick Douglas home in 1988. I went to it and they were recruiting for the movie and I was also selected as an extra in the movie,” said Reid. “Being in the movie, Glory, was an awesome experience. I had just gotten interested in doing re-enactments during that time. I grew up in central Ohio, wondering all through junior high through college what was a Black
PHOTOS/BOBBY JONES
Corporal Kevin Barrett, a historian for the city of Newburg, NY, and a 26th Regiment Infantry U.S. Colored Troop re-enactor blows on the hot embers to ignite a fire during Encampment Re-enactment commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Emancipation Day, Oct. 25.
man’s role in the Civil War. They didn’t teach me that in History class, because I don’t think the teachers were taught that history. So, how could they teach us? I realized the movie was a way to get that piece of education,” said Reid, a 25-year re-enactor. “I was an extra in the battle scene. I got killed, but someone had to die,” said Reid, jokingly. “But the story tells that the Black man did indeed fight in the Civil War as a unit. “We like to think that we stand on the shoulders of those brothers who went
before us and we get to tell the rest of the story that was left out of the history books.” Reid went on to say, more than 700,000 Civil War soldiers didn’t come home; 36,000 of those were Black men, this happened on American soil. What we’re simply trying to do is remind people to not let this happen again.” The Annapolis Commission on Maryland’s 3rd Constitution and the Abolishment of Slavery sponsored a series of events celebrating Maryland Emancipation from Oct. 25 until Nov.1.
The Combined Federal Campaign is Underway! Visit DCMilitary.com/CFC for a complete preview and a full list of participating charities that need your support through donations to help those in need. Please support their efforts and donate today!
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Friday, November 7, 2014
Security Forces Police Blotter The Security Forces Blotter is intended to keep members of the Joint Base Andrews Community informed and aware of the crimes and offenses that occur throughout the base each week. If you have any information that may help the Security Forces solve a crime or prevent a criminal act, please contact BDOC (Base Defense Operations Center) at 301-981-2001, CRIME STOP LINE 981-2677 (COPS, or the investigations section at 301-981-5656). Oct. 24 at 8:33 a.m.: Security Forces received an anonymous tip through the “LiveSafe” app reporting illegally parked vehicles. Patrols responded and saw no illegally parked vehicles. Oct. 24 at 12:05 p.m.: Security Forces was contacted via e911 that a child was locked in a vehicle. The individual stated that when the child was placed in the vehicle, they had the keys to the vehicle. The child
had locked the vehicle by accident before the individual was able to get in the vehicle. Patrols responded, unlocked the vehicle and retrieved and evaluated the child. Oct. 24 at 3:38 p.m.: Security Forces received an anonymous tip through the “LiveSafe” app reporting illegally parked vehicles at Tennessee Ave and Pensacola Ave. Patrols responded and issued citations to four illegally parked vehicles. Oct. 24 at 11:59 p.m.: There was a loud noise complaint in the Dormitories. Patrols responded and briefed the residents on quiet hours and the residents complied. Oct. 26 at 6:15 a.m.: There was a minor vehicle accident involving a privately owned vehicle and the barrier at Main Gate. The individual stated while entering the installation they drove over the barrier and heard a noise from underneath the vehicle. The dam-
age consisted of dents to rear passenger side panel and a popped rear tire. Patrols responded and accomplished reports. Oct. 28 at 05:27 a.m.: Security Forces received a call stating an abandon vehicle at the Family Health and Readiness parking lot. The vehicle was cited for being a possible abandoned vehicle. Oct. 28 at 4:25 p.m.: An individual walked into Security Forces reporting damage to their vehicle. The individual stated that after parking at Malcom Grow Medical Center there were several minor scratches and paint transfer on the front bumper. Patrols verified the damage and accomplished reports. Oct. 29 at 12:14 a.m.: Security Forces received an anonymous tip through the “LiveSafe” app reporting illegally parked vehicles at building 3415. Patrols responded and made contact with the owners of the vehicles and had the vehicles moved to designated parking spots. Oct. 29 at 3:51 p.m.: There was a minor vehicle accident involving a government owned vehicle and a fixed object. The individual stated that while exiting the installation the yellow blinking light was on for the barrier. The individual continued to drive forward when the barrier rose and struck the vehicle. The individual did not require medical assistance and the damage consisted of dents. Patrols responded and accomplished reports. Oct. 30 at 11:11 a.m.: Security Forces was contacted reporting damage to a personal vehicle. The individual stated that they noticed the damage while leaving the Base Library. The damage consisted of two dents on the driver side wheel well. Patrols responded and accomplished reports. Oct. 30 at 2 p.m.: Security Forces received an anonymous tip through the “LiveSafe” app reporting illegally parked vehicles at Malcom Grow Medical Center. Patrols responded and made contact with the owners of the vehicles and had the vehicles moved to designated parking spots.
As A Reminder
There has been an increase in parking violations; park only in designated parking areas and spots. Additionally, if you see the Barrier Lights activate, please stop. If you are involved in an accident, stop and call Security Forces at 301-981-2001. For reporting any emergencies or non-emergencies please feel free to utilize the “LiveSafe” app. “LiveSafe” is an anonymous reporting app that can be downloaded for free on your smart device.
CEREMONIAL, from page 4
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and intelligence analysts at the Defense Intelligence Agency.” Ceremonial events require extensive planning as they often include senior officials, said Elizabeth Adams, AFDW Ceremonies and Protocol director, who also served with the Air Force Honor Guard for many years, culminating as the unit’s commander from 2001-2003. “We expertly plan, coordinate, and execute the U.S. Air Force’s highest level of ceremonial and protocol services for the President, foreign dignitaries, congressional leaders, Department of Defense agencies, Headquarters U.S.. Air Force general officers, and distinguished visitors to the National Capital Region to include coordinating and escorting hosts for repatriated service members and interments at Arlington National Cemetery,” said Elizabeth Adams, AFDW Ceremonies and Protocol director. The 11th Operations Group at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling ensures these Airmen are ready to support the ceremonial mission. “Our Airmen are honored to represent the face, spirit, and sound of our Air Force to the world,” said Col. Richard Lindlan, commander of the 11th Operations Group. “We’ve got a proud team that is inspired by the opportunities we have to bring our Air Force to the public.”
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PROBLEMS, from page 1 meet our goals together. Protecting the environment is not just the government’s job, it’s everybody’s job together. Everybody had a stake and everybody has something to contribute; so an event like this is just what the doctor ordered to heal our environment,” said Adam Ortiz, Acting Director Prince George’s County Department of Environmental Resources “All ideas are open, the problems we are facing are old, but the solutions that we need must be new. The old ways have not solved the problem so we have to be receptive to out of the box thinking because it’s the only way that we all meet our challenges. We want to do so in a way that doesn’t just clean the environment but makes our county more appealing, more beautiful and puts people to work.” The event was focused on bringing all ideas to the table, examining all sides to see what solutions can evolve. “A hackathon was held in Baltimore, similar to what we are doing here; and the Baltimore Water Wheel came from that. An idea that came from someone being innovative and asking the question, ‘how can we make that happen?’ That’s what this event is about – let’s be innovative, let’s think outside
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the box,” said Jayson Williams, Vice president of Strategic Partnerships Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation. In attendance at the event was John Kellett, who along with Daniel Chase helped design the solar-powered water wheel, which, to this date, has collected 40 metric tons of trash from the Baltimore Harbor. “This is a great event. There are people who will spend a Saturday thinking about these ideas, these are exactly the same people our idea appeals to – people who want to make a difference, people who see the challenge and believe there is a solution. Because there are people who see the challenge and think nothing can be done about it and these people are looking for something than can be done. “When we started this project to tackle the trash in the inner harbor in Baltimore you wouldn’t believe the people who said ‘Never happen, can’t be done.’ We thought that was a big enough challenge and now they’re talking about this technology being able to make a dent in the plastics in the ocean. That’s a loftier goal than we ever thought and we thought we had an ambitious goal cleaning up Baltimore Harbor ... These local problems are really global problem.” Hackathon ideas ran the entire range from “analog” to using the latest in digital technology
in order to attack the problem. “My desire of this program is that it really takes innovation in a very rudimentary business line right now and that if we really apply the technology acceleration that physical technology has taken on over the last 100 years since the industrial revolution and realize that physical technology can also be applied to clean itself up. It is the ultimate in recycling and innovation in order to repair what we didn’t know and be able to scale those technologies and really solve water problems and storm water problems and pollution problems globally. With our program here centered around the Potomac basin obviously we catch Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC so it can really be its own pilot project of pilot projects,” said Gore Bolton, CoFounder Alexandria Emerging Technology Center (AETC) Dave Feldman, CEO Livability Project, noted the importance of bringing all pieces of the puzzle together in order to find a complete solution. “We wanted to bring different groups and stakeholders and grouped together creating a dialogue and having people work together in a format that very collaborative and we see business government and nonprofits all have a vital role. But Solutions are going to follow where capital flows, where entrepreneurs are. So we wanted to create an entrepreneurial environment
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around creating these kinds of solutions. We’re very focused on the watershed because so many issues and so much of our lives depend on clean water; so our goal here is to help programs, ideas, business products, services that are already out there and help accelerate them by bringing together some of the key decisions makers in a way that is a win for everybody including the community – the greater good.” Several participants shared their enthusiasm about the event. Christopher Williams of Grace Management & Construction LLC shared, “The Potomac Piranhas Hackathon exceeded my expectation always good o be in a room with interested stakeholders who will sacrifice time, energies, and resources and intellectual capital for such an important cause – the retrofitting, upgrading and improving storm waterways. And that Prince George’s County is taking the lead along with their partner Corvias Solutions as an excellent model that should a benchmark for the nation to follow.” Welcoming participants from all areas and walks, student, Mikhail Slutsky, was part of the team chosen to develop the idea for the next level. “As a student I wanted to see what the industry was presenting. A lot of my roommates had done hackathons; and I wanted to see how my ideas would reflect
in this industry. So for me this was very much a learning experience; getting adapted to what I might be doing in my future.” All teams were the recipients of individualized counseling and advising from the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and AETC. Seeing the larger picture, Tad Davis Managing Director Corvias Solutions shared his outlook beyond the event, “I think the two largest outcomes that we would like to see from this hackathon effort and then the following shark tank pitch is awareness throughout the community so we can bring the issues we are involved in with storm water to as many people throughout the community as possible – from an awareness perspective and an education perspective – but equally, if not more important, is the input from the individual citizens in the community, neighborhood organizations, the churches, every entity within this community is some way or another connected with water. We want to make sure we not only reach out and touch and help educate and make aware, but also pull in the ideas, their thoughts and insights in terms of how we can make this something good for future generations in Prince George’s County.
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SUCCESS, from page 1 and its talented faculty. And I think that all the federal agencies and privates sectors should set up recruitment in the lobby on this fine school.” Among the other honorees were Stephanie Hill, Vice President and General Manger of Information Systems and Global Solutions Lockheed Martin recognized for the company’s commitment of time, personnel and resources to build innovative educational and career pathways for STEM students in Prince Georges County. The STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, or STEM, initiative came about in 2006, when national and state
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Andrews Gazette policymakers renewed efforts to improve the literacy of U.S. students. “We feel honored to be in partnership with Prince George’s Community College. When we think about the things the college is doing to help prepare and really inspire our young people, particularly those in unrepresented groups to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math, we are excited about that,” said Hill. “As Lockheed Martin, the key to our success is having the technical talent. We need to partner with great institutions like PGCC, to be able to help fill talent pipeline.” Several well wishers were on hand to support the current honorees and Prince George’s County Foundation Awards Dinner and Gala event.
“This is a night to honor partners of the college for success. I’m really here to honor the Prince George’s Community College, because it’s really been the partner for success for the county,” said Jamel R. Franklin, Chair, Prince George’s County Council. “Whether it’s helping our youth get back on the right track for college, help a laid off professional find a new career path, or helping one of our local minority businesses in some capacity so they can compete for larger contracts and really find the American dream. Prince George’s Community College has been a true partner for all of us for success. So I’ll always have a special place in my heart for the community college,” said Franklin. “I’m here to support the college.”
Friday, November 7, 2014
PHOTO/BOBBY JONES
Senator Barbara Mikulski, (D-Md), greets guests in the VIP room, prior to a Prince George’s Community College Foundation Awards Dinner and Gala event at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Md., Oct. 29.
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