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DCMilitaryLiving DCMilitaryLiving Publisher Mr. John Rives Comprint Military Publications 301-670-2680 jrives@gazette.net Circulation of 120,000 printed by offset as a civilian enterprise quarterly magazine for installations within the National Capital Region by Comprint Military Publications, a division of The Gazette. Comprint Military Publications is located at 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. Telephone 301- 921-2800. Editorial content, including graphic art and photographs that support messages, new stories, and feature articles, are prepared in the Marketing Offices of the installations that contribute the information. Letters and suggestions may be mailed to DCMilitaryLiving Publisher, Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. The printer is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense. Opinions expressed herein are those of the contributors to this Marketing publication, and they are not to be considered an official expression of the Department of Defense. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of Defense of the products or services advertised.
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Beyond the VA Guide to Military Services in the Washington, D.C., Region Written and compiled by Jim Mahaffie
There are hundreds of organizations whose mission includes providing various services and assistance to military veterans and their families. Due to the proximity to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the U.S. Department of Defense, the Pentagon and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, many of these organizations are either based near Washington, D.C., or offer chapters and satellite offices in the area. Since so many want to give back to our nation’s service people, veterans returning from the Middle East and particularly wounded warriors, there are organizations that will help you with almost any need imaginable. Here is a selection of what's available in our area. If you’re a veteran or active duty military or family member of one and you need something–just ask.
The American Legion
www.legion.org The American Legion focuses on service to veterans, service members and communities, and has about 2.4 million members in 14,000 posts worldwide. There are several posts in the greater Washington, D.C., area. Local posts offer a wide array of events and activities for military families, fundraising purposes and entertainment.
AMVETS National Service Foundation
Lanham, Md. www.amvetsnsf.org; 301-459-6181, 800-810-7148 Created in 1948 to assist returning veterans in their readjustment back into civilian life, AMVETS National Service Foundation operates nationally, serving American veterans. Services and programs include helping veterans and their dependents with VA compensation and benefits. Thrift stores proceeds benefit veterans, and they offer a number of scholarships to eligible veterans and their dependents.
Angel Airlines for Veterans
Virginia Beach, Va. www.AngelAirlinesforVeterans.org; 800-296-1217 This charitable organization has provided numerous flights for family members enabling them to visit wounded and recovering soldiers at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. They facilitate no-cost and reduced rate patient travel services to veterans and active duty military personnel and their family members enabling access to distant medical evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation.
Archdiocese for the Military Services
Washington, D.C. www.milarch.org; 202-719-3600 The Archdiocese for the Military Services was created by Pope John Paul II to provide the Catholic Church’s full range of pastoral ministries and spiritual services to those in the U.S. armed forces. Their mission is to leave no Catholic or other person behind in the U.S. military or any veterans. Funding comes from the chaplains, men and women in uniform, and private benefactors. Page 4
Bob Woodruff Foundation
Bristow, Va. www.ReMIND.org; 703-853-2128 The vision of the foundation is to provide resources and support to empower communities nationwide to take action to successfully reintegrate our nation’s injured heroes back into their communities so they may thrive physically, psychologically, socially and economically.
The Bowlers to Veterans Link
Fairfax, Va. www.BowlforVeterans.org; 703-934-6039 BVL was founded in 1942 by the sport of bowling to help support America’s heroes in uniform. Since then, the organization has raised almost $30 million to provide recreational and therapeutic programs and services to help boost morale.
Caisson Platoon Equine Assisted Programs
Fort Myer, Va. www.cpeap.org This all-volunteer organization was founded to provide equine assisted therapy to the wounded warriors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The program uses the Percheron draft and draft cross horses of the Caisson Platoon to provide equine assisted therapy for wounded warriors and military veterans.
Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund
Gaithersburg, Md. www.cfsrf.org; 301-685-3421, 866-962-3773 The fund provides college grants and financial assistance to surviving children and spouses of U.S. military service members who have lost their lives in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The financial assistance program assists disabled service member families, as well.
Fisher House Foundation Inc.
Rockville, Md. www.fisherhouse.org; 301-294-8560, 888-294-8560 Because members of the military and their families are stationed worldwide and must often travel great distances for specialized medical care, Fisher House Foundation donates “comfort homes,” built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes let family members stay close to a loved one during hospitalizations for an unexpected illness, disease or injury.
Freedom Alliance
Dulles, Va. freedomalliance.org; 800-475-6620 Freedom Alliance is an educational and charitable organization that sponsors numerous program activities aimed at supporting and honoring our service members and their families. Their three main program areas include the Military Leadership Academy, the Support Our Troops program and a scholarship fund.
Hero Dogs Inc.
Brookeville, Md. www.hero-dogs.org; 1-888-570-8653 Hero Dogs is a Maryland nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to raise, train and place service dogs with military veterans who have been injured
Photo courtesy of Hero Dogs Inc.
and/or disabled while serving in the U.S. armed forces. Hero Dogs provides service dogs to disabled veterans at zero cost to the veteran, and trains dogs to meet multiple disabilities such as mobility, hearing and/or psychiatric disorders.
Mercy for Me
Bethesda, Md.; www.MercyForMe.org 301-571-9469, 855-977-6463 Mercy for Me is a humanitarian organization providing financial grants and essential supplies to people when they are victims of a crisis. Through charitable donations, they provide financial grants and emergency response to keep people in their homes or provide essential supplies when they are victims of severe hardships or natural disasters.
National Association of American Veterans Inc.
Washington, D.C. www.naavets.org NAAV is a nonprofit organization founded in 2005 to provide health care information; emergency assistance; and advocacy, counseling, housing coordination and educational programs for all service members. The organization emphasizes help for the severely wounded and single parent service members, military caregivers, veterans, and their families at risk of not returning to normalcy after serving in a war and residing in underserved areas nationwide.
National Military Family Association
Alexandria, Va. www.militaryfamily.org; 703-931-6632 The National Military Family Association is the leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening and protecting the families of the men and women currently serving, retired, wounded or fallen. They provide families with information and work to get them the benefits they deserve, as well as offer programs that improve their lives.
Operation First Response Inc.
Culpeper, Va. www.operationfirstresponse.org; 888-289-0280 OFR supports America’s wounded warriors and their families with personal and financial needs. Services are provided from the onset of injury, throughout the recovery period and along the journey from military life into the civilian world. Financial aid varies as each case is based on individual needs ranging from rent, utilities, vehicle payments, groceries, clothing and travel expenses.
DC Military Living - Advertising Supplement
Photo courtesy of Equine Assisted Programs
Operation Homefront
Gaithersburg, Md. (Based in San Antonio, Texas) www.operationhomefront.net 301-355-4680, 800-722-6098 Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded warriors. Direct services alleviate a military family or individual’s emergency financial burden, as well as offer counseling and recovery support. An Operation Homefront Village is located in Gaithersburg, Md., and serves veterans that are being treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Operation Second Chance Inc.
Clarksburg, Md. www.operationsecondchance.org Operation Second Chance is comprised of patriotic citizens committed to serving wounded, injured and ill combat veterans. They support veterans and their families while they recover in military hospitals, by building relationships and identifying and supporting immediate needs and interests. OSC provides support for soldiers and Marines while they are at Walter Reed, and then further assistance when they transition either back to duty or to civilian life.
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Henderson Hall MCCS Henderson Hall, located on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, offers a wealth of activities. From discount tickets and an extraordinary Marine Corps Exchange to family activities and themed runs, we offer something for just about everyone. Check out our website, www.mccsHH.com, where we invite you to find out about the many programs we offer to service members and their families, along with DOD civilians in the National Capital Area and beyond.
ITT
The Information, Tickets and Tours office is gearing up for the fall season! Among their offerings are tickets to the Army Navy football game on December 8; Redskins home game tickets; “Disney on Ice: Rockin’ Ever After” at the Patriot Center Saturday and Sunday October 20 and 21; and Longwood Gardens at Christmas on December 15. ITT also offers fishing trips launching from Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, on a regular basis. Want to know more? Visit their webpage, www.mccsHH.com/ITT.html, updated frequently with pricing and new offerings. Or call them at 703-979-8420 ext. 116.
Henderson Hall Phone Directory Golf Tournaments
“Golf With Us,” Semper Fit’s roaming tournament series, concludes September 21 at Marine Base Quantico. Play is open to all DOD ID card holders, with active duty and retired Marines receiving a discount. Fees include lunch, cart, and 18 holes, and, thanks to our generous sponsors, a goody bag and door prizes. Reservations are essential, as the roster fills quickly. Call 703-6972706 for more information or check www.mccsHH .com/SemperFit.html.
Family Fun
Plan to come out to the Fall Family Fun Festival on Saturday, October 20. Our first festival last year was such a success, we’re doing it again. The venue is Smith Gym, 10 AM – 2 PM, and the event features games, activities, and refreshments courtesy of our sponsors. Look for more information, coming soon.
Fall Education and Career Fair
Wine Festival
On September 8, 11 AM – 3 PM, taste over 100 wines from the U.S., Germany, Argentina, Spain, Italy, France, and Chile. Join us and visit with vendors from The Vineyard Wine & Spirits, who will introduce their wines and share their expertise. "El Don" makes a special appearance and will sign your bottle of wine. DJ entertainment too! Must be 21 years old or older to taste.
Prepare for your future! The Fall Education and Career Fair will take place Thursday, October 11, 10 AM – 1 PM, in Smith Gym. We expect close to 100 participating employers and educators, and best of all it’s FREE! Service members and their family members are welcome, and résumé assistance is available throughout the fair. Refreshments are provided courtesy of our generous sponsors. Call 703-614-6828 for more information or visit the online page at bitly.com/F2012ECF.
Semper Fit Runs
Boxing Returns!
Check the Oohrah Run Series webpage at www.mccsHH.com /oohrahrunseries.html. Upcoming runs include the Devil Dog 7K on September 12, a “Semper Fi-ght” Obesity fun run with Navy Mutual Aid Association on October 17, and the annual Turkey Trot Joint Base run on November 16. For more information, please call 703-614-5959. And, if you would like to be notified when runs are opening for registration, please sign up by going to our website, www.mccsHH.com/ SignUp.html, and ask to be included on the e-mail list.
Smith Gym offers two boxing events in October: a Pro-Am show October 6 and the Fall Brawl amateur boxing show October 27. For more information and tickets, please call 703-697-2706.
Pool Events
Bring the kids out to the Spooky Splash at the Zembiec Pool on October 27. We combine Halloween spookiness with the safety and fun of the pool, and everyone has a great time. Look for more
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Administration...........................................703-979-8420 ext. 323 Athletics..................................................................703-697-2706 Barber Shop............................................................703-271-8177 Career Resource Management................................703-614-6828 Contracting ...............................................703-979-8420 ext. 130 Counseling Services ...............................................703-614-7204 8th & I Marine Mart ................................................202-433-2848 Education Office......................................................703-614-9104 Exceptional Family Member.....................................703-693-5353 Family Child Care ....................................................703-614-7332 Financial Management............................................703-614-6950 Gear Issue..............................................................703-693-4730 Gym........................................................................703-614-7214 Human Resources ................................703-979-8420 ext. 306/7 Information & Referral.............................................703-614-7202 ITT ............................................................703-979-8420 ext. 116 Java Café................................................................571-483-1962 Lifelong Learning.....................................................703-614-9104 Marine & Family Services..................................703-614-7200/01 Marine Club ............................................................703-614-2125 Marine Corps Exchange ..........................................703-979-8420 Marine Corps Family Team Building .........................703-693-4840 Marketing/Sponsorship ..........................................703-693-5351 Military Clothing Sales ......................703-979-8420 ext. 104/131 New Parent Support................................................703-614-7204 Pool........................................................................703-693-7351 Relocation...............................................................703-614-7202 Retail Administration .................................703-979-8420 ext. 354 Retired Activities .....................................................703-693-9197 Single Marine..........................................................703-614-4947 School Liaison ........................................................703-693-8378 Semper Fit Administration .......................................703-695-1591 The Vineyard .............................................703-979-8420 ext. 105 Wellness.................................................................703-614-5959
information coming soon to www.mccsHH.com/Pool.html. Want to keep in the loop on MCCS Henderson Hall offerings? Visit us at www.mccsHH.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/mccsHH, and like us on Facebook at www.face book.com/mccsHH.
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Special Per Diem Rates & Packages TDY Packages Available One Bedroom Suites
Fall 2012
300 ARMY NAVY DRIVE, ARLINGTON VA
INITIAL FREE CONSULTATION
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The Life of a Wounded Warrior Caregiver Blog by Siobhan Fuller-McConnell July 23, 2011 dawned like any other Saturday after a long work week. I had the usual weekend errands on my list: shopping, bills, cleaning and laundry. Before I started with the chores, as I did every morning, afternoon and night, I turned on my laptop and logged into Facebook to see if Derek was online. I had “chatted” with him over Facebook the night before, and I ended our conversation the way I always did with “Be safe. Love you.” Every minute of every day I worried about him. Seeing as he was not online, I turned to the chores. Derek, age 22, is my second of five children. His older brother Michael, 23, served four years in the U.S. Navy, and he arrived home for good on July 22, 2011. Derek is followed by twins, Kellina and Ryan, 18, and Sean, 15, who is Derek’s twin. The phone rang at 9:28 a.m. as I was separating the laundry. I glanced at the number, and since it was a number I didn’t recognize, I almost didn’t answer it. Sometimes, I wish I could have ignored that call and have everything stay the same. That was the call that changed our lives forever. My life as a single mom of five, and full-time attorney was about to be irrevocably changed. I heard the words no military mom ever wants to hear. “Ma’am, I am sorry to have to tell you this, but your son, Derek, was injured while out on patrol this morning.” Derek was a private first class in the U.S. Army, serving his first deployment in the Zhari District of Kandahar. The room spun. Everything disappeared. I sat in a daze listening to the calm, professional voice on the other end of the phone. I couldn’t comprehend what I was hearing. There was so much I needed to know, but most important, I needed to know that he would live. The captain could not promise me that. I just wanted hands and eyes on. That finally happened. It felt like a lifetime later, but it was only six days. My four other children and Derek’s fiancée, Krystina, took off for National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.—now known as Walter Reed National Military Medical Center—on Friday morning, July 29, 2011. What I saw when Derek finally arrived broke my heart. My strong, healthy young man was lying in a bed … broken. He could not even breathe on his own. Everything would be different now. Would he even live? The doctors could not tell me that. Derek went from being a healthy, strong, vibrant, young man with his entire life ahead of him, to fighting to take every single breath. His dreams were shattered. He would no longer practice martial arts. His goal of joining the FBI or being a police officer was dashed. While on patrol, Derek’s group received a call that another soldier had been injured. They moved into position to secure a landing zone for Page 6
228 days in the hospital. 53 days in the SICU. 36 surgeries. 19 procedures. 54 days on a ventilator. 98 days on oxygen. 34 different medical teams. the medevac. They found themselves in a minefield. IEDs went off all around them. Derek hit one, but only the blasting cap fired. His squad leader said to him, “You are one lucky son-of-a-b.” Two steps later, he was no longer so lucky. Those first days, weeks were stressful, hard, incomprehensible. Several revisions to the wounds after he arrived in the U.S. caused the amputations to creep higher. Every day the doctors came to me to sign another consent or make another decision that might affect the rest of Derek’s life. Eventually, he ended up with a left hip disarticulation—leg removed from the hip joint— and a high above the knee amputation on his right leg. His skull, jaw and pelvis were fractured. The right arm was broken and tendons, muscles and nerves were severed. There were no promises that the hand would ever work again, and to this day he has very limited use of it. He also had internal injuries, including acute renal failure, and TBI. The worst were the seven different infections fighting to take him from us. He went septic, full system shutdown. One doctor took my hand and quietly said, “I don’t know if I can save him.” The doctors were preparing us for the worst. Over the next several months, we struggled to keep Derek alive, to get him stronger and to accept what had happened. It was hard for all of us to accept it. 228 days in the hospital (one day more than seven months). 53 days in the SICU. 36 surgeries. 19 procedures. 54 days on a ventilator. 98 days on oxygen. 34 different medical teams. Our days were spent sitting in the hospital, holding his hand, discussing his medical care, reading. I was up no later than 7 a.m. most mornings, earlier on surgery days. The first thing I did was check in with the nurse and corpsman for a report of what occurred overnight; that’s if I had not spent the night. We worked on Derek’s OT
Courtesy photos
and PT, and met with all of the medical teams for updates, reports and plans for moving forward. I also checked with the charge nurse which nurse would be on that night. Before I left at around 9 or 10, I checked which nurse Derek would have the next day and gave instructions for the night. I finally crawled back to the room at the Fisher House at around 10 p.m., sometimes later. Sleep did not come easy, even though I was exhausted. Catnaps in the (insert sarcasm here) “oh-so-comfortable” hospital chairs kept me going. That was our daily routine most days. For four months, the doctors could not promise me that he would live. He was considered “in the woods.” When Dr. Philip Perdue walked in and told us the woods were in the rearview mirror, we did a happy Snoopy dance! I think they could hear the cheers at the other end of the ward! As if watching Derek suffer and the fear that we might lose him were not enough, the changes in our lives since this happened have been numerous. Some are positive, and some are not. After about two months of sitting in a hospital, I was told that I no longer had a job, and in this terrible economy, I am not having much luck finding another. Unfortunately, this is a concern for many caregivers. On top of having to worry about making the right decisions and making sure that the doctors had all of the information they needed, I also needed to worry about paying my bills and feeding my other children. In addition, Krystina had to leave school and work to be by Derek’s side, so she did not have an income. Krystina and I both left our homes and families. For nine months, my three teenagers—Kellina,
DC Military Living - Advertising Supplement
Ryan and Sean—left their home to live with my sister. My older son Mike and my father stayed at my home to care for the pets and keep the household going. However, as bad as this has been, there have been wonderful experiences. Our life, while full of stress, was also fun and positive. One nurse told us while laughing that we were the “noisiest room on the ward.” We were the party room. We laughed and sang and found ways to keep the
See CAREGIVER on page 10 Fall 2012
Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling The mission of JBAB Morale, Welfare and Recreation is to provide quality support and recreational services that contribute to the retention, readiness, mental, physical and emotional well being of our active duty personnel and Department of Defense employees. All proceeds will go to supporting these programs and services that improve the quality of life for the United States active duty military and their families. Please call 202-767-1371 for more information.
Cardboard Boat Regatta
September 3rd, 1 to 3pm, Base Pool, 9 to 18 years old Come and say goodbye to summer by joining
the Youth Center Staff for our Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta Race. Pick up your free materials for your boat construction (4 pieces cardboard and one roll of duct tapeper team). Supplies are limited to one boatper family. Please register your team and pick up your supplies after August 20th from 10am to 5pm at the Youth Center. Age groups include (5 to 7 years), (8 to 10 years), (11 to 13 years) and (14 years or older).
Half Marathon and Navy 5 Miler
September 16th | Washington DC, National Mall The Navy 5-Miler is expanding into the Joint Base Half-Marathon and Navy 5-Miler in 2012. The inaugural half-marathon and 9th Annual 5-
JBAB Contacts Miler will take place at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012 on the grounds of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Additional activities race weekend will include an Expo in conjunction with Packet Pick-up and a Pasta Party meal available from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. All pre-race activities will be hosted at the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Club Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012. The race is open to military and civilian runners, and participants and volunteers can find more information and register at www.jointbasehalfmarathon.com.
Defenders of Freedom
September 22nd | 10am to 7pm | Six Flags America Join your colleagues within Naval District Washington for a unique opportunity to participate in a day of fun at Six Flags America. This private event, which is available to DoD personnel and their guests only, is being offered to our Defenders of Freedom for $18. This day of fun will include a free concert ticket for the first 5,000 paying customers to experience a LYNYRD SKYNYRD performance that evening. Please call the ITT office at 202-404-6576 for more information.
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September 28th | 4 to 8pm | Slip Inn Bar & Grill Share a toast with us at our Annual Oktoberfest featuring entertainment by the Alte Kameraden Band! Enjoy activities and games for the entire family. Pretzels, brats, sauerkraut and potato salad will be available for purchase. Please call 202-7671371 for more information.
Warfighter & Family Readiness (WFR) Administrative Office . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-7707 Military & Family Support Center (MFSC) WFS, Bldg. 72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-433-6151 WFS, Bldg. 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-0450 Aerobic Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-8821 Arts and Crafts Center . . . . . . . . . .202-767-4422 Auto Hobby Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-4571 Bolling Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-563-3800 Capital Cove Marina . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-9136 Fitness Center I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-5895 Fitness Center II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-433-2962 Furnari Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-433-2574 ITT (Tickets) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-404-6576 Liberty Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-685-1802 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-5578 Outdoor Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-9136 Potomac Lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-563-1702 Slip Inn Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-5840 Child & Youth Programs (CYP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Child Care Placement Office . . . . .202-433-3055 Child Development Center I . . . . . .202-767-2890 Child Development Center II . . . . . .202-404-8071 Child Development Center III‌ . . .202-433-0771 Child Development Homes . . . . . . .202-404-1454 School Bus Program . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-8138 Youth Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-767-4003 Gateway Inns & Suites . . . . . . . . . .202-404-7050 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blanchard Barracks Office . . . . . . .202-767-4456 Enterprise Hall Office . . . . . . . . . . .202-433-0960 Furnari Hall Office . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-433-2667 Honor Guard Barracks Office . . . . .202-767-4418 Housing Office I, Bldg. 414 . . . . . .202-433-0346 Housing Office II, Bldg. 21 . . . . . . .202-404-6828
Navy Birthday 5-10K Run-Walk October 12th | 1pm | Slip Inn Celebrate the 237th Anniversary of the Navy with a 5-10K Run-Walk! Awards will be presented. Call the Fitness Center at 202-767-5895.
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Notes to the Male Military Spouse, Part I Blog by Chris Field • Women are naturally tougher than you. Don’t sweat it. Proof? One word: Childbirth.
cloths, and to cultivate a steely resolve for spending the subsequent 10 years on a playground.
• There is a reason why the Exchange only has “Proud Military Wife” stickers and keychains. Real men don’t use stickers or keychains. Yes, that must be it.
• It is often helpful to con yourself into thinking that the early months after a child is born is akin to the sleep deprivation trials of BUDs/SEAL Team training.
• As long as you know who really wears the ACUs in the family, you’ll be fine.
• Watching “G.I. Jane” repeatedly…in the hopes of coming to a more enriched understanding of the breaking of traditional gender roles and stereotypes within the ranks of the military… won’t help.
• Female service members are quite used to the quality of dining afforded by MREs. When you marry a woman, you probably have ‘cooked’ a meal or two for her. • BDUs and ACUs eliminate those awkward, impossible conversations when your spouse asks, “Does this make my butt look big?” • When introducing yourselves to new neighbors or acquaintances, you might try wearing facial hair…just to ease into the explanation of why they should be asking HER about military service. • When the time comes, think of those six weeks of maternity leave as six weeks of YOUR Basic Training. This should be enough time for you to learn rudimentary diaper changing techniques, to further your appreciation for burp
• Regardless of the way you were raised, you will find yourself saying “Yes, Ma’am” and “No, Ma’am” a lot more often. • Stop by her unit once in a while. It will be helpful to see that other men, some much more manly than you, do exactly what she says too. • Being able to make any sense at all of her LES is tantamount to earning a CPA. • You will never, ever have to suspect that your spouse’s work attire is too suggestive (never) or unflattering (always). • Emasculation is the new black. • You will save a small fortune on ‘work’ wardrobe, jewelry, hair appointments, earrings,
BDUs and ACUs eliminate those awkward, impossible conversations when your spouse asks, “Does this make my butt look big?” etc. Begin putting those savings toward your child’s education fund, not, you know, afternoons at Hooters. • “Sex in the City” will never compromise your family finances or your sanity when shoe shopping. “Which ones do you like, Honey?” “The beige (or grey or black) ones, of course.” • Be mindful to always convey your appreciation of her feminine charms. Failure to do so is evidence that you have little appreciation that our government gives her powerful weapons and broad authority to launch tactical strikes on unenlightened Neanderthals. • When you watch UFC fights, try to remember that the military is training your wife to do those same things. Behave accordingly. • To “Man Up” or, if you’re from Texas, “Cowboy Up” means sometimes having to buy tampons. A note of caution: when this task
becomes completely comfortable, contact your local MTF. While I’m not a medical professional, they should prescribe a rigorous regimen of Clint Eastwood films. • Try to remember that, like him or not, Bill Clinton, former commander in chief of the armed forces, is currently being professionally eclipsed by his wife. • The Rolling Stones sang about “Mother’s Little Helper.” And what is Daddy’s Little Helper? A hint: it’s found at your local Class Six. • Be very, very careful if you elect to mention to your wife that the military occasionally offers free cosmetic surgery to AD service members (in order to allow its medical practitioners to keep current on their licensing). On second thought, don’t. Just don’t. • When you’re man enough to admit “My wife wears combat boots,” you’re man enough.
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Fall 2012
NSA Annapolis Fitness Runs
MWR Fitness will host the Labor Day 10K Run on Saturday, September 1 and the Turkey Trot 5K Run on Saturday, November 17 at the Bay Room, NSA Annapolis. Both runs starts at 9 a.m. with registration in advance at the Rec Bldg. #89 or day of event starting at 8 a.m. Cost is FREE for active duty and $10 for all others. For information, call 410-293-9200.
Blue Jacket Cafe: Dining, Catering , Coffee Bar
The Blue Jacket Cafe offers menu choices and carry-out service as well as a high-end coffee bar/deli area open throughout the day and catering services. Open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For hours and daily menu, please visit: http://cnic.navy.mil/ Annapolis/FleetAndFamilyReadiness/ThingsToDo/FoodAndBevera ge/Galleys/index.htm or call 410-293-9120.
Information, Tickets and Travel
The Information, Tickets and Travel Office at NSA Annapolis offers discount tickets to a variety of local and out-of-state tourist attractions and theme parks; hotel and cruise bookings; travel and vacation packages and local and out-of-state / country trips. For a complete list of discounted tickets, visit http:// cnic.navy.mil/Annapolis/FleetAndFamilyReadiness/ThingsToDo/Tic ketsTravelAndTours/index.htm. To purchase tickets or make reservations for trips or vacation packages, visit the Customer Service Desk in the MWR Recreation Services Bldg. #89, M-F, 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., call 410-293-9200 to charge by phone or call Erin Reardon, ITT Coordinator, at 410-293-9207 for complete ITT services.
Youth Center Fall Events
Don’t miss the exciting Fall Family Festival on Friday, October 26. Bring the family in costumes and enjoy music, snacks, fun and games, pumpkin decorating contest, costume contests and the not-so-haunted house. Cost is $3 per person.
NSA Annapolis Phone Directory Parents can get in the holiday spirit and get your shopping done early when the Youth Center offers a Parents Night Out on November 9 from 5:30 to 10 p.m. in honor of Military Family Month. Cost is $10 per child for pizza, fun and games and a movie at the Youth Center. For reservations, call 410-293-9396. Make reservations early for the annual Family Holiday Gala on Saturday, December 15 at 5 p.m. The whole family can enjoy snacks, music and dancing, games, wreath decorating (pick up your wreath in advance, decorate it and return it to the Youth Center to be judged at the Gala), and more holiday fun. Cost is $3/person and reservations can be made by calling 410-293-9396.
Chick-Fil-A Mooo...vie Madness
MWR Annapolis offers, “Chick-fil-A Mooo..vie Madness,” free monthly family movies on the third Thursday of each month. G-PG13 movies are shown in the theater of Bldg. #89 at 5:30 p.m. All DoD-eligible people are welcome. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The program is sponsored in part by Chick-fil-A, Annapolis Mall with free chicken sandwiches on a first come, first served basis. For information, call 410-293-9214. (Neither the Navy nor any other part of the federal government officially endorses any company, sponsor or their products or services).
Great Wolf Lodge, Williamsburg
Enjoy an overnight getaway with 67,000 square feet of indoor entertainment and a water park under one roof! Accommodations sleep 6 in a family suite and the cost is only $217/room for overnight; cost includes 6 tickets to the waterpark. Book as soon as possible; at this great price, the rooms go quickly! Call 410-2939200. 2012 Dates: Oct. 20; Dec. 8
Army-Navy Football Weekend Giveaway Contest
Look for the entry blank for the 7th Annual Army-Navy Football Weekend Giveaway Contest online at: http://www.usna.edu/ MWR/MARCOM/7thAnnual-Army-NavyFootballWeekendGiveawayContestPage and enter to win a complete weekend for four people
Accounting / MWR Business Office . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-9277 Administrative and NAF Personnel Office . . . . . . . .410-293-9208 Athletics Office / Fitness . . . . . . .410-293-9211 / 410-293-9226 Auto Skills Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-3859 Blue Jacket Café (Galley) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-293-9120 Child Development Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9390 Child Development Home Program . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9395 Discount Ticket Sales (ITT Outlet) . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9200 FAM-CAMP (Campgrounds) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9200 Fleet & Family Support Center - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-293-2641 Navy Family Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9736 Bachelor Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-293-9070 Lincoln Military Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -410-349-8616 Information, Tickets & Travel Coordinator’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-410-293-9207 Marketing / Commercial Sponsorship Office . . . . . -410-293-9206 Liberty Zone (Single / Unaccompanied Act Duty) . . -410-293-9214 Marina (Carr Creek Marina) - Office . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-3731 CDR John L. Dunning, Ret Pier at Mill Creek - Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-3731/2058 MWR Director – Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-9209 Navy Gateway Inns & Suites - 410-293-3906 (located at USNA) Party Room Rental – Bay Room Reservations . . . . .410-293-9200 Recreational Services Building #89 . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-9200 Outdoor Gear / Sports Equipment Checkout . . . . . .410-293-9200 North Severn Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-2082 South Severn Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-293-3033 Youth Programs ("Billy the Kid" Youth Center) . . . . .410-293-9396
at the 113th Army-Navy football game in Philadelphia on the weekend of December 8. Grand prize includes game and pre-game tailgate tickets and an autographed football from NAAA, weekend car rental from Enterprise Rent-a-Car, hotel accommodations for two nights from Holiday Inn, and Spirit of Philadelphia dinner cruise tickets. There is no cost to enter but all entries must be received either by FAX or mail by November 5. For details, call 410-293-9206.
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CAREGIVER continued from page 6 days interesting. Derek was a big part of that. His attitude was infectious. It is so easy to find negative in this journey, but that will not help anyone survive and thrive. We cannot live worrying about the “what-ifs.” We learned to celebrate firsts again. Derek’s first words were “chocolate milkshake.” It took several weeks to finally hear his voice again. We celebrated when he rolled over on his own, sat up, took his first steps and got his knees. We took the simple pleasures in life and made them major. A big help in this experience is the wonderful community of wounded warriors. These guys bond together in their shared experiences. They have the best attitudes, and if they can do it, what’s my excuse? There are triple and quadruple amputees running around the MATC (Military Advanced Training Center). Several of them have come forward to assist Derek with not only tricks to learning to walk and move, but with morale. To protect their privacy, I will not mention their names, but they know who they are. One of them leads a wheelchair train of other wounded warriors, and another flips around on the mat like a monkey! And the sense of humor? I was told the prosthetic legs make great beer mugs! One night, Derek picked up a mirror and said, “Mirror mirror, on the wall, who is the cutest amputee of them all?” The medical staff and support staff at the hospital are some of the most wonderful people I have ever met. Best medical care in the world.
Courtesy photo
Our nurses not only cared about Derek, they took care of us. I fell asleep in the chair in the ICU and when I awoke, I found that the nurse had draped a blanket around me. The nurses were constantly asking us if we needed anything, and they worried that we were resting and eating properly. I was chased from the room several times to
either eat, go back to the room to rest, or give in to a migraine by either a nurse or corpsman willing to watch over him for me. I have made lasting friendships with people whom I credit saving Derek’s life, and people who were so wonderful to us during the hell we lived. Some of them are family members of the wound-
ed warriors. Some of them are nurses. Some of them are the support staff and volunteers who make everyday life in the hospital just a little more tolerable. One day I was craving a simple roll with butter. Laura Boone from Operation Ward 57 walked in and handed me a bagful of rolls and a tub of butter. When cold weather came unexpectedly—having arrived in summer I did not have my coat—Don Patterson from Marines Care handed me a coat with the Army insignia on the back. One day, I was super stressed and afraid to leave Derek’s room because a complex medical issue was rearing its ugly head and the charge nurse walked in and handed me a sandwich. Sitting in the hospital day after day, these kindnesses kept us grounded. It is so easy to get lost in the complicated medical nightmare going on and forget to eat, sleep, breathe. When every minute of every day can be consumed with making life-altering decisions, learning about medical procedures, and keeping track of medications and doctors, how can anyone think of anything else? The distractions that family, friends, the hospital staff and volunteers bring are lifesaving for the families. The quiet of the day was often broken by what we call the revolving door. In addition to the daily nurse and corpsman, as well as any doctor or other medical personnel who might currently be on service, there are several other visitors. On sleepy days and days in which Derek just was not feeling up to par, we declined the visits or simply put a note on the door to not disturb. But since these visits also help the caregivers, we had the option of going out to the hall to visit. The Red Cross comes through daily with their
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cart off of which we could get snacks, magazines, movies, blankets, toiletries and any number of other items. There is also the military component with their weekly visits. In the Army, we had the WTB (Warrior Transition Brigade), AW2 (Army Wounded Warriors), SFAC (Soldier and Family Assistance Center), squad leader, outpatient nurse case manager, WTU (Warrior Transition Unit) and others. There are also the nonprofits bringing food, blankets, care packages and almost anything else we might have needed. And then there are the VIPs. When the smiling, personable member of Executive Services waltzed into the room, we knew someone was coming for a visit, and this happened at least once a week. VIPs include military brass, celebrities, politicians and anyone who needs an escort on the floor, such as the American Legion, fire departments or the Elks. These visits significantly raise morale. We met Kid Rock, Jon Voight, Montel Williams, Wee Man, Sgt. Slaughter and so many other celebrities. Some of the other notable visitors were President Obama, Vice President Biden, Gen. Raymond Odierno (Chief of Staff of the Army), Gen. Martin Dempsey (Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff), the Hon. John McHugh (Secretary of the Army), James Amos (Marine Corps Commandant), as well as several senators and congressmen. Whether or not anyone agrees with the politics of the individual has no bearing on the visit. Lying in that hospital bed, the guys do not care if the visit is motivated by a desire for re-election. It means something to them just to have the visit. It was sad for me, as a caregiver, when I saw
some of them only pose for pictures, say a few niceties and then leave, without asking about the hero in the bed. But most of them were truly interested in the stories of our wounded heroes. They spent time talking to our wounded and listening to them tell their stories. We had several visits from Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.) who did all he could to help us. Once, he showed up after a particularly bad weekend. I had vented on my blog about medical carelessness by an intern, and Congressman Frelinghuysen made it a point to see what he could do to help us. Joe Biden was personable and spent time talking to the guys out in the hall on Christmas Day. Dr. Jill Biden came through twice, and she remembered us during her second visit. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) was on the floor when we were visiting on Derek’s One Year Alive Day. Senator McCain came over to chat with us in the hallway. Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) made it a point to connect with Derek several times on each of his several visits. One source of stress for me during holidays and school vacations, as it is for many caregivers, is where to house visiting family. Nonprofits, such as the Yellow Ribbon Fund, find hotel rooms for family. We also used Hero Miles to fly my son Sean home and to fly me to New Jersey for a short visit. The SFAC has all the information. The hardest part of being a caregiver is watching your loved one suffer and struggle. The best part of being a caregiver is seeing his successes, even if they are long coming. Our journey was a long one, but we made it.
NDW Defenders of Freedom Appreciation Day
Saturday, September 22, Rain Date: Saturday, Sept. 29 The NDW region would like to show it's appreciation for the men and women who daily support and defend this great country. They are inviting all DoD and Military personnel to an exclusive event at Six Flags at a drastically reduced rate. In addition, the first 5000 tickets sold will receive admission to a concert by the legendary group Lynyrd Skynyrd. Ticket price $20. Tickets are non-refundable. Call your NDW ITT Office for more information: Navy Yard - (202) 433-2069 Bethesda - (301) 295-0434 JBAB - (202) 404-6576 Indian Head - (301) 744-4850 Dahlgren - (540) 653-8785 NAS Patuxent River - (301) 342-3648 Annapolis- (410) 293-9200 Tickets will also be available at these ITT Offices: Pentagon – Army, Pentagon - Air Force, Henderson Hall, Andrews Air Force Base, and ONI For updates on this event visit: http://cnic.navy .mil/ndw/fleetandfamilyreadiness/thingstodo/
Navy-Air Force Half Marathon~Navy 5 Miler
September 16; 7:30 a.m. at the Washington Monument DC The Navy 5-Miler is expanding into the Navy-Air Force Half-Marathon and Navy 5-Miler in 2012. The Inaugural Half-Marathon and 9th Annual 5-Miler will take place at 7:20 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012 on the grounds of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Additional activities race weekend will include an Expo in conjunction with Packet Pick-up and a Pasta Party meal available from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Race is open to military and civilian runners. Find more information and register at www.navyairforcehalfmarathon.com The mission of JBAB Morale, Welfare and Recreation is to provide quality support and recreational services that contribute to the retention, readiness, mental, physical and emotional well being of our active duty personnel and Department of Defense employees. Proceeds will go to supporting these programs and service. Please call 202-767-1371 for more information. Presenting sponsor is Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) for the sixth consecutive year. (No Federal endorsement intended)
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Naval Air Station Patuxent River
NAS Patuxent River Directory
Fall Events
Fall is a time to enjoy the cool fresh air, changing seasons and all the beautiful scenery that can be found at NAS Pax River.
24th Annual Pax River Team Triathlon
September 8, 2012 Teams of three compete in this annual event with each team member taking 1 section of the race; .5 mile swim, 13.1 mile bike or 3.1 mile run. Registration is available at the Fitness and Sports Office. Cost is $30 per team. Contact Hal Willard at 301-757-1194 for more information.
Craig Karges at the River’s Edge
September 27, 2012; 7 p. m. Craig Karges' performance is an extraordinary blend of mystery, humor, psychology and intuition. Karges dazzles the mind as he challenges his audiences to question what is real and what is unreal, what is possible and what is impossible. Tickets will be available beginning September 1. Call 301-342-3656 for more information. Ticket price will be $15 per person and will include a heavy hors d'oeuvres buffet.
20th Annual 10K Fall Classic
October 20, 2012 There is no better way to enjoy the magnificent water views at NAS Pax River then to participate in our annual 10K Fall Classic. Pre-registration is $20 for entries received prior to the event. $22 for same day registrations. The race will begin at the Drill Hall at 9 a.m. This event is free for active duty military (without an official 10K shirt.) Same day registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Drill Hall. There will be water stops at the 2 & 4 mile marks and the finish. Splits will be given every two miles. The course will be radio-moni-
tored and medical aid available from start to finish. Contact Hall Willard at 301-757-1194 for more information.
Pumpkin Carnival
October 26, 2012; 4 p.m. The Rassieur Youth Center invites the children of NAS Pax River to attend the annual Pumpkin Carnival. The carnival will be from 4-6:30 p.m. Children will enjoy trick or treating, carnival games, hay rides, moon bounce, cotton candy and more! The cost for this event is $3 per person (children under 2 free). Call 301-342-1694 for more information.
See PAX RIVER on page 14
Auto Skills Center..................(301) 342-3507 Bowling Center ......................(301) 342-3994 Cedar Point Golf Course ........(301) 342-3597 Center Stage Theater Movie Recording) .......... .............................................(301) 342-5033 Child Development Annex (Drop-In) ................. .............................................(301) 342-3636 Child Development Center .....(301) 342-7637 Customized Creations ...........(301) 342-3569 Drill Hall, Fitness Room Weight Room and Gear Issue.....................................(301) 342-3519 Energy Zone ..........................(301) 995-3869 Information, Tickets and Tours......(301) 342-3648 Liberty E1-E6.........................(301) 342-3565 Indoor/Outdoor Pool..............(301) 342-4225 Rassieur Youth Center ...........(301) 342-1694 River’s Edge Catering and Conference Center . .............................................(301) 342-3656 West Basin Marina ................(301) 342-3573 Navy Recreation Center Solomons Adventure Zone...........(410) 286-8046/8047 Point Patience Marina ....(410) 286-8022/8023 Sunset Pier ...........................(410) 286-7354 Riverside Aquatics Complex...(410) 394-2845 Lodging Reservations ............(410) 286-7416 Camping Reservations ..........(410) 286-7415
SERVICES continued from page 4 Our Military Kids Inc.
McLean, Va.; www.ourmilitarykids.org 703-734-6654, 866-691-6654 Our Military Kids provides substantial support in grants to children of National Guard and Military Reserve personnel who are currently deployed overseas, as well as the children of wounded warriors in all branches. Grants pay for participation in sports, fine arts, camps, and tutoring programs for children while a parent in service to our country or recovering from injury.
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing
Photo courtesy of Two Top
La Plata, Md. www.projecthealingwaters.org Project Healing Waters assists in the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active duty military personnel and veterans through flyfishing and fly tying education and outings. All equipment and trips are provided at no cost.
Semper Fi Fund
(Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund) Quantico, Va. www.semperfifund.org; 703-640-0181 The SFF is a national nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance and quality of life solutions for Marines and sailors when they become injured in combat or training operations or they face life-threatening illness or injury.
Soldiers Undertaking Disabled Scuba (SUDS)
Bethesda, Md.; www.sudsdiving.org SUDS is designed to help improve the lives of injured service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Training in the challenging and Page 12
USMilitarySingles.com
Photo courtesy of SUDS
rewarding activity of scuba can help facilitate the rehabilitation process and promote mobility.
Team River Runner
Rockville, Md. www.teamriverrunner.org; 301-233-8882 Team River Runner is a nonprofit organization that gives active duty service members and veterans an opportunity to find health, healing and new challenges through whitewater boating and other paddling sports.
ThanksUSA
McLean, Va.; www.ThanksUSA.org ThanksUSA is a nonpartisan, charitable effort
to mobilize Americans of all ages to “thank” the men and women of the U.S. armed forces. They provide need-based college, technical and vocational school scholarships for the children and spouses.
Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation Inc.
Mercersburg, Pa. www.twotopadaptive.org; 717-507-7668 Two Top is based at Whitetail Resort and serves wounded troops in the nearby Baltimore/ Washington region. Two Top focuses on giving those with disabilities an opportunity to gain confidence and dignity through participation in sports.
DC Military Living - Advertising Supplement
www.USMilitarySingles.com This website, part of the Friends Worldwide Dating Network, is the premier military dating site online, helping to connect military men and women as well as military admirers who share personal interests and lifestyle preferences.
Yellow Ribbon Fund Inc.
Bethesda, Md. www.yellowribbonfund.org; 240-223-1180 The Yellow Ribbon Fund was created to assist injured service members and their families while they recuperate at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia. Contributions have provided free rental cars, taxi rides and hotel room nights. Families may use the fund’s apartments, as well. The fund has also supplied service members and their families with tickets to sporting games and concerts; hundreds of lunches, dinners and golf games; duck and goose hunts; fishing trips; and various other recreational activities. Fall 2012
NSA South Potomac, NSF Dahlgren
Auto Skills Center
Open 4 days a week for service or the do-ityourselfer. The Auto Skills Center is available for all your basic car maintenance.
Cannonball Lanes Bowling Alley
Open 6 days a week, with 10 lanes of bowling featuring AMF equipment and a Bose sound system. Concessions and shoes available. Open bowling, special events, leagues, and party rentals.
Game Time Sports Grill
Open 6 days a week, within Cannonball Lanes! Hours are Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturday noon to midnight; open Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.
Cannonball Café
Open 6 days a week, the Café is located within Cannonball Lanes! Proudly serving Seattle's Best Coffee. Lounge includes Wi-Fi hot spot.
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Family, MWR Overnight Camping
NSA South Potomac, NSF Dahlgren Phone List Aquatics Center ........................540-653-8088 Auto Skills Center .....................540-653-4900 Cannonball Lanes Bowling .......540-653-7327 Child Development Center.........540-653-4994 Child Development Homes........540-653-4342 Craftech Hobby Shop ................540-653-1730 Community House, Parade Field and Joy Park .. ................................................540-653-8785 Fitness Center/Gymnasium ......540-653-8580 General Library .........................540-653-7474 Gray’s Landing on the Potomac ..540-653-8277 Information, Tickets & Tours......540-653-8785 Liberty Center...........................540-653-7277 Gear Issue & Equipment Rental / RV & Boat Storage Office...........................540-653-4900 Marketing and Corporate Sponsorship ............. ................................................540-653-5826 MWR Admin Office ...................540-653-7777 Youth Activities Center ..............540-653-8009
Hitting the road for a family vacation and taking home right along with you, by RVing it. Richmond FMWR RV Camp is available to Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, DoD Cardholders, retirees and their families. Located near the north gate at 6002 Strathmore Rd, Richmond, VA 23234, available personnel can rent a slot for $20 per night. The park offers electricity, water and a dump station. The overnight sites are convenient to dining, shopping, down-town Richmond, and Richmond International Raceway. Visit www.mwrrichmond.com or call 804-2791094 for reservation information and fees.
Bellwood Club Catering..........(804) 279-3772 Center Restaurant ................(804) 279-3714 Child Development Coordinator....................... .............................................(804) 279-3406 Family Advocacy Program ......(804) 279-4337 Leisure Travel Office..............(804) 279-1091 Recreational Lodging Office ...(804) 279-1092 Equipment Rental..................(804) 279-1094 Outdoor Recreation Program Office................. .............................................(804) 279-1094 Relocation Assistance & Work/Life Programs .............................................(804) 279-3406 Marketing and Sponsorship Coordinator ........ .............................................(804) 279-5325 Recycling Program .................(804) 279-4258 Wellness Program ................(804) 279-6281 Fitness Center.......................(804) 279-4198
Camp Close to Washington, DC
FREE Wi-Fi
15 minutes to Andrews, 35 minutes to Fort Meade
Child Development Center (CDC) Open 5 days a week, the CDC provides a full-time child development program for children six weeks to five years old. Open from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, holds DoD certification.
Richmond Directory
Duncan’s Family Campground
Located in Maryland Between DC and Annapolis
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Sign up to get a free subscription for NSF Dahlgren Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) weekly Electronic Newsletter (e-News) at FFRPMarketing_Dahlgren@navy.mil for special events, restaurant menu, sports events, Fleet and Family Support Center class schedules and more! Visit Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) on the web! www.cnic.navy .mil/SPotomac. Have you found Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) on Facebook? www.facebook.com/pages/Naval-SupportActivity-South-Potomac/481418550575
Richmond
KIDS CAMP • Open All Year Long FREE • Big Rig Friendly • Rental Trailers & Cabins • Sparkling Pool • Van to Metro & DC Tours • Quiet Wooded Sites Monthly Rental Spaces • New Dog Park Available! 1 Month rate 15% Military Discount on nightly fees only $795. Active duty Military receive $50 & special monthly rates for Military off monthly rate. • FREE Cable TV • Affordable Family Camping While Touring DC
410-741-9558 • Duncansfamilycampground.com
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USCG Sector NY The Parade
It’s Fall and that means the start of the Holiday Season has begun. The highlight of the Fall is Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, a tradition that entertains the young and the old every year. For over 80 years the parade moved along city streets waiting for Santa to pass by on his sleigh. Considered “the longest show on Broadway” is also enjoyed by another 50 million people who tune into NBC and Telemundo to watch the giant balloons, one-of-a-kind floats, marching bands, cheering clowns and a host of celebrities. It’s 1924 and the Thanksgiving Day Parade which was originally known as Macy’s Christmas Parade was started by Macy’s employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo. It was such a rousing success that Macy’s declared it would be an annual event. The 1927 Parade included helium-filled balloons for the first time. There were released above the city, but unexpectedly burst above the Manhattan’s skyline. The following year, the helium balloons were redesigned with safety valves allowing them to float for several days. The improved balloons also featured return address labels offering prizes in case any balloons floated away. Those lucky enough to find them could bring them back to Macy’s for a reward! It was 1934 when Macy’s designers collaborated
USCG SECTOR NY
for the first time with Walt Disney Productions, introducing the Parade’s first Mickey Mouse balloon. Watching the balloons being inflated is half the fun. On November 21, you can observe the inflation of the balloons from 3 - 10 p.m. near the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West between 77th St. and 81st St. Enough of the history, how do you visit the parade today? Sector NY has their Guest Quarters, a two bedroom and three bedroom former family housing units that accept reservations a year in advance, and then some with the understanding that full payment is required at the time of the reservation and there is a cancellation fee. With that in mind, the units do become reserved quickly. However, there is a Navy Lodge co-located with the Coast Guard on Staten Island. The 50 units do follow Navy policies regarding military leisure travel but is available for MWR patrons visiting New York City. And if they are overbooked, we both have other alternatives for your enjoyment.
Bear Mountain Cruises
The partnership with between Sector NY and the Circle Line has proved to be very successful as each year more and more MWR patrons enjoy the fall trip up the Hudson. As the trees start to turn and the air becomes crisp, Sector NY MWR once again teamed up with the Circle Line to off you a most enjoyable day in New York. Autumn
bursts with a magnificent display of foliage in the Hudson River Valley and there’s no better way to witness this event than aboard Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises’ Bear Mountain Cruise. Take in the crisp autumn air and awesome views as the vessel makes its way up the scenic Hudson River to historic Bear Mountain, where you will have the opportunity to disembark for two-hours and enjoy Bear Mountain’s annual Oktoberfest. Admission to Oktoberfest is complimentary!
Sector’s Programs
Sector NY’s Fitness and Gym Programs get back into full swing in September. With the transfer season over, vacations finished and children back in school, Sector’s Spin Classes, Cross-Fit, and Zumba Programs will be back in full gear. Stop by the office to get registered for the programs. And let’s not forget the Fall Youth Soccer Program. Scheduled to begin on September 18th the program runs until November based on the weather. The program focuses on the basic skills of the sport and stresses fitness and fun as well as fun and fitness. Watch for registration forms. And the two Sector Active Duty Events of the fall will be Oktoberfest on October 5th and Halloween Hoops on Oct 26th. Oktoberfest will be highlighted be a Command Run, similar to the Army’s Division Runs lead by the Sailor of the Quarter. The run will be in honor of all Coast
Quantico MCCS Quantico Stay in the Know
MCCS Quantico has a lot going on this fall. Stay in the know by signing up to receive our Monthly Trifold at www.quantico.usmcmccs.org/trifoldRequest.cfm. Or like us on facebook, facebook.com/Quantico MCCS.
Medal of Honor Golf Course Outings
Fall is the perfect time to schedule a gold outing! The Medal of Honor Golf Course includes an 18-hole golf course, practice range, & putting green, a beautiful Clubhouse with an expanded Pro-Shop, and Mulligan’s Restaurant. For fees and more information, call 703784-2424 or visit www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Golf .
Adult Golf Clinics
The Medal of Honor Adult Golf Clinic offers students a wellrounded “Getting Started Program.” The program will teach the grip (holding of a golf club), stance and alignment, the basics of the golf swing, rules, the vernacular, and etiquette of golfing. The major portion of these clinic sessions will be held on the practice areas. Students will receive a coupon for one free round of golf to follow up the class with on-the-course play. For more information about Adult Golf Clinics call, 703-784-2424 or visit www.quantico.usmcmccs.org/Golf .
Barber Physical Activity Center
BPAC houses Physical Fitness, Health Promotion, Athletics and Youth Sports. The facility offers a large variety of recreational opportunities with a 9,600 square foot fitness deck, group exercise room, spin studio, functional fitness room, three racquetball courts and one full-sized basketball court. It also offers a TV and Wi-Fi lounge, smoothie bar, child co-op, locker rooms and separate saunas for men and women. For more information call, 703-4320590 or visit www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/BPAC.
Youth Sports
Quantico Co-ed/Inclusive Youth Sports are recreational/instructional leagues. Our first priority is fair and equal play for all youth athletes. All players get equal time on the field and/or court regardPage 14
204 Molony Drive, Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY 10305 718-354-4407 LT Richard Sullivan…….…...... MWR Officer Mr. Rick Davis………………Rec Specialist Mr. Larry Calhoun……………..Rec Assistant FSC David Dorsey…………..…Fitness Ctr Ms. Danaysy Rodriguez………Rec Assistant Mrs. Carolina Rose ………….Rec Assistant Mrs. Deirdre O’Brien ……........Accountant Mrs. Elisa Garcia………..Guest Quarters E-mail us at D01-MWRSECNY@USCG.MIL
Guard members that give their all in service to this great country with a special nod to Sector AOR members. The daylong program will include sporting events, fun games, German food and beverages, and a moment to remember. Halloween Hoops Basketball is a single elimination Coast Guard Command Tournament. The event will be the first major tournament played on the new gym floor. Cancelled last year due to the construction, ball players all over are looking to renew their bragging rights at this great tournament. For more information, check out the Sector Website at www.secnymwr.com and Facebook at Coast Guard New York MWR.
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Dog Walk
Quantico MCCS Phone Numbers MCX .......................................................703-432-8800 REC ITT ...................................................703-432-8850 Marine Mar t ............................................703-784-2712 Golf Course .............................................703-784-2424 Package Store .........................................703-432-8156 Bowling Center ........................................703-784-2210 The Clubs at Quantico ..............................703-784-4264 Catering ..................................................703-432-0219 Auto Hobby..............................................703-784-2729 Marina ....................................................703-784-2359 Barber Physical Activity Center...................703-432-0590 Movie Theater Hotline...............................703-784-2638 Lunga Park ..............................................703-784-5270 Child Development Center ...............703-784-2716/4470 Youth/Teen Center ...................................703-784-2249 Quantico Family Librar y.............................703-784-4348 The Crossroads Inn ..................................703-630-4444 Human Resources....................................703-784-3454
less of skill level. Once this is achieved, our next focus is on teaching teamwork as well as building and/or improving sports skills. All of our coaches are volunteers. This means that not all teams will be starting their practices on the same day. Historically, we get the majority of our coaches when they register their child. However, to get the entire number of coaches needed, we may have to call parents and try to recruit coaches. Teams without coaches will be dissolved and registration fees will be refunded. If you have questions about the Youth Sports program, please call or e-mail he Youth Sports office: 703.784.5637/9756 or wyantls@usmc-mccs.org Any complaints about the program, coaches, officials, etc. need to be put in writing and taken to the Youth Sports Office at Barber Gym. For more information call, 703-784-9756 or visit www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/YouthSports. DC Military Living - Advertising Supplement
November 3, 2012; 1 p.m. It’s here! Your dog’s favorite event of the year. The 12th annual Canine Walk/Run will be held on Sat. Nov. 3 at 1 p.m. Participants will meet outside the Drill Hall and will walk/run a 1.5 mile loop with their canine. All canine competitors will be eligible for random prizes and treats at the post event social There will be no trophies, awards, or t-shirts to the canine owners. $5 per family to participate, same day registration. Call 301-757-1194 for more information.
Holiday Basketball Tournament Organizational Meeting
November 5; 1 p.m. Active Duty, reservists, retired military and members of the Civilian Fitness and Sports Programs may participate in the annual Holiday Basketball Shootout Tournament. The organizational meeting will be held on November 5 at 1 p.m. at the Drill Hall Bowling Center. The Tournament starts the week of November 19. Call 301-757-1194 for more information. This tournament is proudly sponsored by Guy Distributing. NAS Patuxent River sincerely thanks and appreciates the sponsors of this event. However, neither the Navy nor any other part of the federal government officially endorses any company, sponsor or their products or services.
Fall Events at NRC Solomons
Open to military (reservist, retired and activity-duty) and Department of Defense employees and family members. Remember to bring valid ID.
NRC Solomons Spooktacular
Join the ghoulish fun on October 20, at the NRC Solomons Spooktacular. Come dressed in your costume and join us at the Large Pavilion. We will have arts and crafts, hayride, costume contest, DJ, carnival games and much more! Prizes for everyone and fun for the entire family! Event takes place rain or shine. E1E5 $4.50 per person and all other $5 per person. Call 410-2868365. Fall 2012
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