Belvoir Eagle, April 2, 2020

BELVOIR

www.belvoireagleonline.com

April 2, 2020

Exchange encourages cashless payments as a COVID-19 protection measure

Compiled by Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle

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o help keep point-of-sale areas as clean as possible, the Exchange is asking customers to make purchases using a bank-issued credit or debit card, Military Star card or gift card, according to JoAnne Cahalan, Belvoir Exchange general manager.

“Because the Exchange is mission essential,

By DeCA Corporate Communications

ort Belvoir Commissary is installing plexiglass sneeze shields in all regular checkout lanes to add extra protection for customers and cashiers during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Plexiglass shields are currently being installed and will be in all commissaries in the next several days. The plexiglass panels are 36 inches high and range in width from 24-30 inches. They will not be placed at selfcheckout stands.

The panels are just one of many protective measures the Defense Commissary Agency is implementing to follow the highest standards of the Department of Defense’s health protection in our stores, said Rear Adm. (ret.)

Robert J. Bianchi, DOD special assistant for commissary operations.

According to Bianchi, commissaries worldwide are wiping down check out areas, restrooms and shopping carts with disinfectant, along with practicing routine handwashing and other sanitation measure to avoid spreading germs.

For more information about DeCA’s response to the coronavirus, visit www. commissaries.com.

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Housing News

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and safety of our military communities first and ask for their help in the fight to contain this virus.”

Cahalan added the Exchange is always looking for ways to protect the community and minimize community spread of COVID-19.

“We have gone to carry-out only at all AAFES facilities; and we are continuously sanitizing our facilities, including counters, pin pads, fuel nozzles and door handles; and ensuring any high-traffic areas are being sanitized,” she said.

The added precautions have also resulted in shorter Exchange hours.

For more on what the Exchange is doing to support military communities during the pandemic including the installation of plexiglass shields, please visit the Exchange Community Hub at https://publicaffairs-sme. com/Community/covid19.

For more information home.army.mil/belvoir

Retired medical Soldiers ready to fight COVID-19 foe; overwhelming response to voluntary recall

Commissary installing plexiglass panels in checkout lanes

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we must make every possible effort to ensure the health and safety of our shoppers,” Cahalan said. “There’s no telling how many times a dollar has changed hands, whereas credit cards are generally only handled by a single person. Our customer-facing card readers, which are being sanitized multiple times daily, also eliminate the need for hand-to-hand contact, which would be unavoidable during a cash transaction.”

The initiative, which also encourages shoppers to minimize cash-back and check-cashing transactions, is expected to further strengthen existing efforts to protect authorized shoppers and Exchange associates.

“Paper money and coins can harbor bacteria and viruses, long after they change hands,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Luis Reyes, the Exchange senior enlisted adviser.

“While we understand this may cause some inconvenience for customers who primarily pay with cash, we thought it best to put the health

By Devon L. Suits Army News Service housands of retired Soldiers have already shown interest in returning to active duty, after the Army reached out to more than 800,000 of them to help in the COVID-19 pandemic response, G-1 officials said March 27.

“When the nation called, they have answered, and now that call has come again.

This extraordinary challenge requires equally extraordinary solutions,” officials said in a statement.

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The Army is currently looking for the following medical specialties: Critical care officers, 60F Anesthesiologist, 60N Nurse anesthetist, 66F Critical care nurse, 66S

Nurse practitioner, 66P Emergency room nurse, 66T Respiratory specialist, 68V Medic, 68W

Return to service

Former active and Army Reserve Soldiers who have been retired for less than five years must meet the necessary certifications and eligibility criteria before returning to service, officials said. By law, retirees currently serving in key medical positions cannot be recalled into service, as their absence could impact current

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state medical operations.

If a Soldier is selected to return to service, their retirement pay will stop, as the Army places them on active-duty pay. A Soldier’s length of tour and location would be based on the needs of the force, officials said.

Recalled Soldiers will not be eligible for promotion, and the Army will consider waivers for those who cannot meet current height and weight requirements, officials said. Uniforms will be determined later.

Once a Soldier’s service is complete, their years of service would be recalculated, which could increase their retirement pay.

Interested retirees can visit the Human Resources Command website at www.hrc.army.mil.

Pharmacy Update

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COVID Support

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Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

www.belvoireagleonline.com

BELVOIR HOUSING UPDATE Compiled by USAG Fort Belvoir Public Affairs

helps military families meet housing needs

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OMES.mil and Military Housing staff throughout the world are working toward helping people search for new homes.

Whether you are looking for housing at your current installation, or are PCSing across the world, HOMES.mil is the best resource for finding community housing. Without an account, you can use the site’s search tool to find housing near your current or next installation and create reports.

To save time when you visit the site, people can create an account to save favorite searches, installations and listings. The site also allows people to contact their current or prospective housing office and start your housing process before a PCS to the next installation.

HOMES.mil facilitates Service member’s search for community housing, with: • Search homes at all local installations using the criteria you choose • View Rental Partnership Program listings

Michaels scholarship deadline extended

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he deadline for the 2020 Michaels Educational Foundation Grant for residents has been extended to May 13. Scholarship recipients can get grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, which can be used toward educational expenses at any accredited college, university or vocational training school in the nation.

Scholarships are awarded annually, and students may reapply each year of their undergraduate education, Photo by Paul Lara for continuing grants. Due Winners of the Michaels Organization Educational Foundation to school closures, unofficial Scholarships, in this 2019 file photo at the Woodlawn Village transcripts will be accepted. Clubhouse.

Information and Box 90708, Camden, NJ 08101. downloadable applications essay and transcripts should be mailed to Dr. Bruce W. The organization expects are available from Johnson, The Michaels to notify applicants of their michaelsscholars.com.

Educational Foundation, P.O. application status on June 12.

Applications, references, Commander .................................... COL Michael Greenberg Command Sergeant Major .....................CSM Jason Young Director of Public Affairs ...................................Joe Richard Deputy Director Public Affairs................... Ganesa Robinson Managing Editor ................................................G.H. Cureton Assistant Editor ........................................... Margaret Steele Digital Editor .....................................................Terry Ruggles Sports Editor............................................... Rick Musselman Reporter/Photographer .......................................... Paul Lara Page Designer ..................................................Betty Watson The Belvoir Eagle is published in cooperation with the Public Affairs Office, 9820 Flagler Road, Fort Belvoir, VA, 22060. To contact the Belvoir Eagle, call 703-805-2034 or 805-5001, or email us at editor@belvoireagleonline.com. Submission deadline is noon Thursday. The Belvoir Eagle is published each Thursday — by Rappahannock Media LLC, 1372 Old Bridge Road, Suite 101, Woodbridge, VA 22192, a private firm in no way connected

and other military community housing benefits • Search and view listings without an account, or create an account to save location, searches and favorite listings • Create an account and list your own rental property HOMES.mil is a joint Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy website.

Housing Health Registry

Call if you have unresolved health or safety concerns:

1-800-984-8523

LEARN MORE Visit the Housing Resident Portal on the Fort Belvoir Website: home.army.mil/belvoir

USAG FORT BELVOIR Installation Management Command

How to Resolve Housing Concerns LEVEL 1 – SUBMIT YOUR WORK ORDER

• Online - www.villagesatbelvoir.com • In-Person - Maintenance Facility Building 1108 • Phone - 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance Request Line: 703.619.3880

LEVEL 2 – MAKE CONTACT • Garrison Commander’s Housing Hotline: • Submit concerns to the Fort Belvoir Interactive Customer Evaluation ICE System: https://ice.disa.mil

LEVEL 3 – CONTACT GARRISON COMMANDER • Garrison Commander’s Housing Hotline: • Submit concerns to the Fort Belvoir Interactive Customer Evaluation ICE System: https://ice.disa.mil

Residents with health concerns related to housing conditions, call Fort Belvoir Community Hospital Rapid Hotline: 571-231-2004

LEVELS OF ESCALATION

Eagle Volume 28 Issue 13

with the Department of the Army — as a civilian enterprise newspaper in the interest of Fort Belvoir, Va. Views and opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the official view of the Department of Defense, Department of the Army, Military District of Washington or Fort Belvoir. Advertisement in this publication, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services by Department of the Army. Everything advertised

herein must be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to the race, creed, age, color, sex, or nationality of the purchaser, user, or patron unless precluded by applicable federal, state or local laws.

For Classified advertisement information, call 703-771-8831.

To advertise in the Eagle contact Rick Bockes at 703-987-0854.

Belvoir Eagle is a registered trademark. Circulation: 19,000.

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Resources available if social distancing affects you

April 2, 2020

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Useful COVID-19 resources: • Fort Belvoir Army Substance Abuse’s Employee Assistance Program’s COVID-19 interactive resource guide, available at issuu.com/fortbelvoirasap.

• CDC Coronavirus Disease website, cdc.gov/covid19 • Tips sheets entitled “Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health – Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation” and “Coping with Stress during Infectious Disease Outbreaks” at samhsa.gov/coronavirus See Resource, page A5

As of Tuesday, all military treatment facilities and dental treatment facilities will postpone elective surgeries and procedures for 60 days, the Defense Department announced.

By Military Health System Communications Office

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ll military medical and dental treatment facilities will postpone elective surgeries and procedures for 60 days, according to a Department of Defense March 25 announcement.

The policy applies to all military health system beneficiaries: active-duty Service members and their families; retirees; and Reserve and National Guard Service members on active duty or a delayed effective date activeduty order.

The policy is designed to meet three main objectives during the COVID-19 pandemic: to enhance military medical staff safety; to prolong supplies of personal

From YOUR SERVICE to YOUR FUTURE ysginc.com

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Medical, dental elective procedures postponed

By Army Substance Abuse Suicide Prevention Program s the COVID-19 pandemic continues to warrant social distancing, it is important to conduct prevention checks for self-care. Additionally, we should check on our family members and house mates. As everyone is impacted, remember to ask others about their feelings and help children acknowledge their emotions by listening to their concerns. Moreover, it is important to maintain contact with friends and family who don’t live with us, through social media, texts or phone calls.

During this period of isolation and social distancing, it can be extremely difficult for people who live alone or lack nearby social connections. Some may find themselves feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely, or start to feel the effects of cabin fever.

Therefore, it is important for all of us to stay informed, yet avoid obsessing, to increase our knowledge of current events and gain tools to stay safe, decrease worry and address concerns. We also have control over something that can be the best defense against COVID-19, which is getting a full night’s sleep.

Belvoir Eagle

protective equipment and ensure its availability for emergency use; and to ensure military medical staff is available to provide pandemic-related care.

Exceptions to the policy will be made for procedures a Service member needs to be ready to deploy, and procedures a provider has determined cannot be delayed without causing harm. For these cases, the hospital or dental facility commander will determine if there is adequate capacity to safely authorize the procedure.

The DoD announcement follows presidential direction on the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.

TRICARE beneficiaries impacted by this announcement will be contacted. Each facility will address concerns and provide guidance on rescheduling.

Elective surgeries and procedures can be rescheduled, including laser surgery; hernia repair; non-emergent back surgery; colonoscopies and joint replacements. Patients should work through their hospital or dental clinic for rescheduling guidance.

Those enrolled to a TRICARE network provider should call their doctor’s office.

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Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

www.belvoireagleonline.com

Living at home and at work, Belvoir firefighters serve with caution

By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle

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uch of Belvoir’s population is now working from home, to reduce community spread of COVID-19. Essential personnel carry on showing up each day and making sure mission objectives are being attained.

It is not business as usual for anyone, including Fort Belvoir’s Fire and Emergency Services. As with all agencies, social distancing and heightened cleaning are a priority, but that becomes an additional challenge to a team that works and lives together, according to Shane Crutcher, Belvoir fire chief.

“Our workforce lives at our job. We live here five months, three weeks of the year. We have to keep the highest possible level of readiness,” Crutcher said. “No one wants to bring it back from home, and the discussion is how we continue to be healthy and balance that home-work life.”

Minimizing risk on medical calls Photo b Paul Lara

Contractors disinfect Belvoir Fire Station 465 as part of the garrison priority to keep essential personnel safe from COVID-19, March 26.

The firefighters’ first priority is

to respond to emergencies on the installation, and, Kevin Good, deputy fire chief, said teams have modified response to medical emergencies to minimize risk.

“We are limiting the number of people who access a call for, say, difficulty breathing,” he said. “Usually, six arrive on a scene, and now, one to two medics go in to assess the patient, and only call in the others as needed. That is an up-close and personal moment with the patients, while checking blood pressure and temperature. We may ask mobile people to come outside of the home and assess them.”

Good stressed that callers requesting medical assistance should inform dispatchers if anyone at the location is quarantined or has tested positive for the virus.

Good said additional post-response steps are in place. When companies come back from a call, they wash their hands before coming back in the facility; uniforms are not taken home and are washed here, and companies clean the fire house twice as often as before.

Thursday, contractors were brought in to properly sterilize each fire station.

See Living, page A5

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April 2, 2020

Belvoir Eagle

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From Living, page A4

Focus on sanitation Crutcher brought in contractors to perform a Bioquell decontamination using hydrogen peroxide steam, and wiping down all hard surfaces.

Capt. Scott Teter, a supervisory firefighter, said cleanliness has always been a daily routine, but now there is added attention to all high-touch surfaces.

“Now, there’s more emphasis on cleaning all the door handles, and over-cleaning to prevent anything from coming into the station. We want to make sure things are clean and safe,” he said.

Good said the mission focus hasn’t changed.

“Our overall focus continues daily to be smart on our guidelines, communicating up through Army channels and communicating with other agencies, to better understand how to limit exposure. If you’re sustaining a clean environment, it should be good,” said Good.

When there is a need for quick response, said Teter, callers can expect the same quick, professional service.

“We’re still here to do our job and help the military, families and residents of Fairfax County, and we’re going to do that job to the best of our ability. If you need us, we’ll be there.”

From Resource, page A3

Tips to maintain mental wellness: • Deep breathing relaxation techniques • Meditation • Reading • Going out for walks • Exercising • Playing board games • Watching movies or documentaries, etc.

• Sitting down with family and have them help you write a family “to do” list for the week and the weekends • Stay engaged and informed If you, or anyone you know, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions, like sadness, depression and anxiety; or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK, 1-800-273-8255.

For additional support, call the EAP’s coordinator, 703805-5588/1093; or the suicide prevention program manager, 703-805-5529 or 1083.

Yorktown Systems Group: Succeeding with Military Mentality at its Core The challenges soldiers face on the battlefield are indescribable, and the commitment to fight under fire isn’t for the faint of heart. As soldiers patrol the scenes of foreign countries, their lives often depend on what they see and what they don’t. For years, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have tormented United States forces and are responsible for killing and dismembering Americans by the thousands. In 2007, American troops were losing limbs from blasts about every other day on average.1 This is the reality that Nick Fuller endured as a major during the Global War on Terror.

Many veterans face another battle off the field when they begin to return to civilian life and look for meaningful channels of employment to support themselves and their families. After 23 years in the Army and three Purple Heart Medals, Fuller found himself motivated to continue his service in the private sector.

Once confronted with his own mortality and the safety of his company, he recognized a need for improved training around protection from IEDs and operating weaponry safely.

In 2008, as a nation-wide sequestration began, military funding was cut dramatically, resulting in less intensive training for soldiers before deployment. Without the proper resources, thousands of U.S. lives were at stake. Like Fuller, retired Lt. Col. Bryan Dyer observed the same need for support and was driven to do whatever he could to provide the necessary training for soldier protection, regardless of what funding was available.

With the primary goal of equipping warfighters with the tools they need to be successful in the field, Dyer formed Yorktown Systems Group in 2008. Together, Dyer, Fuller, and Nancy Acquavella, an expert in proposal and business development and former colleague of Dyer’s, joined forces to train more than 3,000 soldiers before their deployment to Baghdad. Of the group trained, zero soldiers died as a result of IED-related events; a massive shift from previous scenarios.

“We made a commitment to what was right, instead of what was profitable,” said Fuller. “Although we are no longer serving on the battlefield, working with military clients means that sometimes business decisions are a matter of life or death. We were unwilling to let these troops march forward without the proper resources for a successful mission.”

Since then, Dyer has crafted a powerhouse staff deeply invested in their customers’ end mission and in better supporting the Nation’s Armed Forces. In the beginning stages of the company, 95 percent of Dyer’s team were veterans, driven by a company culture with military mentality at its core. Dyer and other leaders at Yorktown recognize the value of grit, determination and adaptability, whether on the battlefield or in the boardroom, which military veterans often bring to the table. Yorktown believes these qualities are the cornerstone of a quality workforce that can exceed the requirements of customers. Jared Lapp, Director of Operations, has seen firsthand the impact that veteran leadership has had on the firm.

“Those who have served in the military represent a special group. Their ability to make tough choices, lead under pressure and think strategically is of great value to Yorktown,” said Lapp. “It’s easy to teach skills, but it’s hard to teach leadership. Because the military demonstrates leadership from day one, veterans often understand the importance of honor, duty and consistency - all important qualities we admire in our leaders at Yorktown.”

While Yorktown houses a strong network of veteran professionals, the management team is dedicated to choosing the best candidate possible for each position, regardless of outside factors.

“Our focus has always been to build the best team possible with the most qualified applicants possible,” said Dyer. “Every person at Yorktown has worked hard for our clients, while also playing a large role in enhancing our company culture.”

Since Yorktown’s founding, Dyer has envisioned a culture of comradery, tenacity and integrity, and he’s worked to keep that culture in place as the company has grown from a small firm to one of the leading partners for the Nation’s Armed Forces. Yorktown has maintained the ability to seamlessly blend military and non-military cultures to support their clients, and Dyer credits much of the company’s success to that balance.

Yorktown’s client base consists largely of government and military organizations. For this reason, many former soldiers consider working for Yorktown a different, but impactful way to serve their country. Yorktown’s clients benefit from the expertise of the company’s veteran staff, because those employees, due to their military experience, are able to offer relevant and educated insights when identifying solutions for government and military clients.

Yorktown also encourages the success of current military spouses on their staff through flexibility and autonomy. The leadership team empowers each team member to grow alongside the company by providing ongoing training and mentorship opportunities to ensure all employees have resources for success.

“Yorktown has always provided support and adaptability during transitional times,” said Program Manager, U.S. Army veteran and military spouse Patrick Rousey. “Since joining the company in 2010, I’ve moved across five states to support my wife’s role in the military and have consistently received the resources I need to be successful.’

Yorktown’s top priority is its relationships with employees and customers. By keeping military mentality at the forefront of the business model, Yorktown ensures that those who have served, and military spouses, have what they need to build a prosperous civilian career.

For more information about Yorktown Systems Group or to search available career opportunities, visit ysginc.com or call 877-406-0262.

1 Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/12/18/ied-10-years-blast-wounds-amputations/3803017/ PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

www.belvoireagleonline.com

Soldiers can apply for AER help electronically

By Devon Suits Army News Service

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he Army Emergency Relief program has implemented changes to assist Soldiers and families impacted by the spread of COVID-19.

The new guidelines ensure that Soldiers and families can process assistance applications on time, while under quarantine or observing limited face-to-face interaction, said retired Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Durr Jr., chief of assistance.

Soldiers and families must first inform their chain of command of their current financial hardship. They then need to fill out an AER application and supporting documentation and route it up to their chain of command for approval.

Any documents containing personally identifiable information must be transmitted securely, officials said. Soldiers and families can request a SERV-U link from an AER officer to safely transfer their application or use the DOD Safe website. The electronic request for assistance must include: n AER Form 101, Application for Financial Assistance n AER Form 57, AER Budget Planning Sheet n AER Form 575, AER Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization n Supporting documents validating financial need Once a Soldier’s chain of command has approved an application, it must be sent to an AER official for final review.

“The AER special assistance application processing guidelines have been well received by unit leadership,” Durr said.

Unit leadership has “been effectively

processing assistance cases electronically via secure portal transmission, and Headquarters AER has been electronically depositing funds into Soldier’s bank accounts successfully,” he added.

As of Friday, AER has processed 14 cases totaling more than $15,000, Durr said. Out of the total number, four cases supported personnel under quarantine, five provided financial assistance due to loss of pay, and five aided personnel impacted by the recent travel ban.

“After 34 years of service, I have seen the benefits of the AER program to our Soldiers,” said Gen. Joseph Martin, Army vice chief of staff. “I encourage leaders to educate themselves about the program and join the campaign, by sharing what they learned about the benefits of AER, and invite their Soldiers to voluntarily join the legacy of Soldiers helping Soldiers.”

Travel ban, PCS stop movement Soldiers impacted by the recent Defense

Department stop-movement order, which has halted most permanent change-of-station moves, can also request AER financial assistance.

Some Soldiers and families have already shipped their household goods and vehicles, but the travel ban prevents them from accessing their next duty location, Durr said.

AER can help fund the basic necessities Soldiers and families will need to get through this challenging time, he added.

Soldiers who aren’t under any travel restrictions can visit their closest AER office for support.

Those who cannot visit should follow the same steps to submit an electronic request for financial help.

Non-Title 10 Reserve, Guard To provide support to all Soldiers impacted

by COVID-19, AER will allow non-Title 10 National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers affected by the virus or travel ban to request assistance, officials said. Applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis, for extreme hardship.

Under normal conditions, all active-duty Soldiers and their family members, along with Reserve and Guard Soldiers activated on Title 10 orders for more than 30 days and their family members, are qualified for AER assistance, officials said.

Non-Title 10 personnel must securely transmit their AER request and supporting documentation to a field grade officer or command sergeant major within their chain of command. The Soldier must then send the application to AER headquarters at assistance@aerhq.org for final approval.

USO Connections more imperative than ever The monthly gatherings have moved online to support shelter at home, and Johnson said this isolation makes every form of community even more important.

“It’s imperative. If we are not connecting virtually, we are all isolated. It’s something the spouses really look forward to. We’ve had spouses connect from different duty stations, and it shows that, no matter what, people still want to connect with each other.”

A time for sharing feelings and resources

By Paul Lara Belvoir Eagle

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Photo by Paul Lara

n this time of physical isolation, it’s more important than ever that military spouses reach out to each other, according to Sarah Johnson, USO program coordinator. She said the USO Coffee Connection is a chance for spouses to network and meet their own needs.

“It’s just a space for them to connect with other spouses and get away from kids or military life. So much of their military career is about their spouse, so this is about their space,” Johnson said. “This time to focus on them helps them support their Service member.”

At the latest Virtual Coffee Connection last week, 27 people gathered online, with a mix of stressed spouses and soothing specialists offering resources in mental health, mutual aid, veterans services, financial planning, and entrepreneur support.

Kay Larson, with Military OneSource, shared some of the group’s ‘boredom busters’ online for families with children feeling cooped up, and a Bookflix website that lets children watch a story as it is read to them.

A military spouse, Yasmin, told attendees she had just been laid off from her credit union job by phone, and wasn’t allowed to go in and retrieve her belongings from the office. The group quickly coalesced around her crisis, with several others offering guidance and services to

help her keep her bearings.

“You saw how people just jump in to help each other,” said Johnson. “It’s an incredible community.”

Some spouses addressed the challenges in our new normal, having to try to work at home for such an extended period. Aubrey Dowd shared it is difficult to telecommute while taking care of her baby; Maura said she faced the challenge of “having to schedule multiple online meetings for parents and children, and which devices will be used to connect them.”

As the online community settles in, Johnson said there will be one or two presentations, with a lot of socializing and networking, as well.

The next Virtual Coffee Connection for Belvoir is April 23, at 10 a.m. Online registration is required through USO Metro’s website.

For more information: metro.uso.org/belvoir USO Warrior and Family Center, 571-267-2080 michael@usometro.org

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April 2, 2020

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Month of the Military Child April 2020 — Overcoming Challenges: Adapting Today for a Stronger Tomorrow

Celebrating our Military Children

By Army MWR

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ilitary children make up a very special part of our nation’s population.

Although young, these brave sons and daughters stand in steadfast support of their military parents. As they face circumstances unique to their lives—such as navigating multiple moves and schools to shouldering repeated deployments of a parent, these children are examples of resilience in the military community. To honor their unique contributions and sacrifices on behalf of our country, each April is designated the Month of the Military Child.

The April 2020 observance has the theme, “Overcoming Challenges: Adapting Today for a Stronger Tomorrow.” Army Child and Youth Services also observes its 40th anniversary in 2020.

Throughout the month, The Belvoir Eagle will share some of our favorite past military youth stories and introduce you to the men and women working tirelessly to support our Fort Belvoir youth.

CYS 40th Birthday Child a and Youth Services celebrates its 40th birthday in April 2020 with the theme “Journey to Excellence.” And what a journey it’s been!

In 1980, the Army hired M.A. Lucas to lead the U.S. Army Child Development Services System, which she headed for 31 years.

Through the decades, on-post services to children and youth evolved to meet the demands of today’s military Family.

These days, CYS operates as a program of the Installation Management Command’s G9 Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Division.

Its programs and facilities support the Army community with highly trained staff and engaging developmental activities.

Core CYS programs include Child Development Centers; Family Child Care, School Age Care programs for before- and after-school care, camps and summer care; Youth Programs; Youth Sports and Fitness programs; and Parent Central Services, the information resource and referral for on-post and community-based off-post childcare.

Forty years after its start, about 12,000 CYS employees serve 205,000 military children globally. CYS continues to meet the needs of Soldiers and Families – so that units can perform their missions.

Operation Megaphone Operation Megaphone, an event led by Army CYS Youth Program, will connect teens from all Army CYS Youth Centers worldwide for one 24-hour period, from April 24-25. The teens discuss key issues that affect military youth and promote communication across Army CYS.

PURPLE UP! For Military Kids In 2011, the University of New Hampshire 4-H started the “Purple Up! For Military Kids” initiative and is now celebrated nationwide.

Wearing the color purple is a visible way to show support and thank military youth for their strength and sacrifices. During the month of April all are encouraged to select a specific day to wear purple in honor of military kids.

The color purple was chosen and symbolizes all branches of the military; it is a combination of Army green, Marine Corps crimson, and Coast Guard, Air Force, and Navy blue. The goal of “Purple Up! For Military Kids:” is for military youth to actually SEE the support in their schools, after school programs, youth groups, Child Development Centers, Family Child Care Homes and the entire community during the week of 20-25 April.

(Editor’s Note: Activities mentioned in this article may be postponed or cancelled as a result of the national public health COVID-19 emergency).

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Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

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Army makes exceptions to enlisted promotion policy during outbreak

By Devon Suits Army News Service

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n response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Army has initiated several policy exceptions that will impact enlisted promotion cycles scheduled until the end of this fiscal year, unless terminated sooner, G-1 officials announced March 24.

Due to the recent restrictions placed on travel and training, the Army is altering its approach to semi-centralized promotion boards, along with changing the training requirements required for promotion eligibility, said Sgt. Maj. Photo by Staff Sgt. Kyle Cook Mark A. Clark, the Army Capt. Marcus Smith and 1st Sgt. James G-1 directorate of military Delaney, Headquarters Company personnel management command team, 529th Support Battalion, sergeant major. promote Roger Jackson to staff sergeant The exception will impact at Camp Taji, Iraq, July 27. the active-duty and Army Reserve force, with many of the alterations taking effect during the May promotion month, Clark said. The National Guard will produce additional guidance later.

“The overall impact is to protect the force and preserve readiness,” he said. “We are trying to get ahead and be proactive and creative. We want commanders and Soldiers to understand that we’re thinking about what’s best for them and what’s best for the Army, all at the same time.”

As the COVID-19 environment continues to evolve, the Army will continue to review its policy exceptions every 30 days and make any necessary changes. The modifications will be in place through September.

Virtual boards

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Commanders are now authorized an alternative means to evaluate personnel during a monthly unit promotion board, Clark said.

With the exception to policy, commanders can conduct a promotion board, virtually. It will be up to the command team to determine their proper means of communication, he added.

“We gave some latitude to the command teams, allowing them to be creative on how they want to assess their Soldiers,” Clark said. “With all of the different virtual options that command teams will access to … it gives the commander the option to do (their promotion boards) via the internet or in an environment that supports social distancing.”

In addition to the virtual boards, leaders can also rely on their battalion command sergeant major to make promotion recommendations based on their “one-on-one interactions with an eligible Soldier,” Clark added. Battalion CSMs can get input from their chain of command or through the noncommissioned officer support channel, to make an informed decision about an eligible Soldier.

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Starting in May, the Army will temporarily suspend its PME course requirements for staff sergeants and sergeants first class who need to complete the Advanced Leader Course or Senior Leader Course, respectively, Clark said.

The temporary suspension of PME will not waive the requirement, Clark said. Soldiers will still be required to complete the course later and will be prioritized first in the training pipeline, to ensure they meet this training requirement.

AFPT, weapons qualifications The Army Physical Fitness Test will continue to be a promotion eligibility requirement, officials said. However, Soldiers will be able to use their last recorded APFT for promotion recommendation and pin-on, regardless of when the fitness test was administered.

Soldiers who previously failed the APFT will remain flagged until they can successfully pass their fitness evaluation. The Army is also providing the same extension to weapons qualifications, Clark said.

www.belvoireagleonline.com

April 2, 2020

Belvoir Eagle

A9

We’re Improving the

Fort Belvoir Hospital Pharmacy • Laser Dentistry

To reduce the wait time for all patients, the Pharmacy will begin preprocessing electronic prescriptions from outside providers (eRx’s) for next day pickup after 1 p.m. at the Exchange (PX) Pharmacy.

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Please note, all same day and paper prescriptions will still need to be filled at the FBCH Main Pharmacy.

• Comprehensive Dentistry and Orthodontics

If you currently get paper prescriptions from your provider please encourage them to submit your prescriptions electronically to reduce your wait time using the following information.

We care for your precious smiles!

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• Visit us today for the latest news, sports and features from Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford, Fauquier and throughout the region.

• Pharmacy Name: DoD FT BELVOIR RX ePhcy • Pharmacy NCPDP/NPI Number: 4845422/1437563269

We look forward to better serving you.

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www.belvoireagleonline.com

April 2, 2020

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he USNS Comfort and USNS Mercy are currently supporting the Department of Defense COVID-19 response. The Service members aboard these ships, including Belvoir Hospital personnel, will treat non-COVID-19 patients in Los Angeles and New York, allowing local health professionals to further focus on treating COVID-19 patients. Defense Logistica Agency-Energy helped keep the ships sailing with DLA Energy-supplied diesel and aviation fuel.

As the longest-serving hospital ships in continuous operation in U.S. history, the Mercy and the Comfort have long captured the public’s imagination due to their vast medical capabilities as floating hospitals.

Hospital ships have played pivotal roles in naval operations since the early days of the republic. During the Barbary Wars, Commodore Edward Preble ordered that the USS Intrepid be used as a hospital ship. The reconfiguration of this former bomb-ketch — a type of wooden ship that carried mortars as its primary armament — in 1803 marks the standard for almost all hospital ships used thereafter. To date, only the USS Relief was built from the keel up to serve as a hospital ship. All other ships — including the Mercy and the Comfort — were converted from other uses, whether as super tankers, troop transports or passenger liners.

Since 2001, USNS Comfort and USNS Mercy have taken part in 19 humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions.

André B. Sobocinski, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, contributed to this article.

www.belvoireagleonline.com

Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

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Employment Advertising The weekly Culpeper Times, the largest circulation newspaper in Culpeper, Va., is seeking its next great Editor. Located just 70 miles from Washington, DC, Culpeper County is a mix of rural and suburban with a thriving “small town” downtown. It’s filled with interesting people and great stories.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic journalist with experience to write everything from local government issues stories to features. Reporting and writing are at the forefront of the job. While the Times has a network of freelance contributors, the editor should enjoy being in the community, cultivating — and producing — multiple stories every week.

A key goal of the editor also should be to embrace a digital first approach, helping build audience and engagement through timely news coverage, promoted through social media. The Culpeper Times is part of InsideNoVa.com, Northern Virginia’s largest news site.

Of course, the editor shapes the Times’s editorial report, and is a primary face of the newspaper in an engaged, vibrant community.

Among the position’s responsibilities include producing special sections and publications, often in collaboration with partners in the community.

The position also involves copy editing, web/social media posting and managing relationships with freelance contributors.

We’re a small, collegial team, and there are a multitude of opportunities for an ambitious journalist to have a big impact.

Interested candidates should email their cover letter, resume and clips to Rappahannock Media President Dennis Brack at dennis@rappnews.com

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A12 Belvoir Eagle

April 2, 2020

www.belvoireagleonline.com

Thank you to ALL essential workers!

Serving our community since 1902.

www.TFB.bank