Competitive spirit contributes to quality of 54th QM Co. training event
Fort Lee
SEE PAGES 12-13
SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FORT LEE LEE, VIRGINIA VIRGINIA, SINCE 1941
July 18, 2013 | Vol. 73, No. 28
TRAFFIC TROUBLE Furlough impact felt by post motorists
SEE PAGE 3 SUSTAINMENT WARRIOR SHARES WORLD WAR II STORY Joe Commander, a 97-year-old Army veteran, served as a supply sergeant while deployed to New Guinea and other areas in the South PaciďŹ c SEE PAGE 14
NCO PROMOTIONS New online training required for advancement among enlisted ranks
SEE PAGE 4
FORMER WORLDCLASS BOXER STUDIES AT LEE A current Philippines Soldier is undergoing quartermaster training SEE PAGE 6
CHEERMANIA A SKIES Unlimited camp at the CYSS Multi-program Facility is teaching youths to be team supporters SEE PAGE 10
2 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
COMMENTARY | RETIREMENT TIPS
Back when people from my parents’ generation were first planning their lives together, most married couples looked forward to working hard for a few decades, buying a house, raising a family and then retiring together while they still had enough money and energy to travel and pursue favorite hobbies. Some couples do manage to pull this off and thrive; but for many others, any of a host of obstacles can block their ability to retire at the same time. For example:
• Thanks to periods of unemployment, home-value decline or 401(k) account loss suffered during the Great Recession, many couples simply don’t have enough money to retire together comfortably. • If there’s a significant age difference, one spouse may not have accumulated enough Social Security credits to qualify for a benefit by the time the other is ready to retire. • Women often worry that the couple hasn’t saved enough since they’re statistically likely to survive their spouses – often for a decade or more. • One spouse must continue working to
,56 RIIHUV VXPPHUWLPH WD[ WLSV IRU PLOLWDU\ If you’re a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, the IRS wants you to know about the many tax benefits that may apply to you. Special tax rules apply to military members on active duty, including those serving in combat zones. These rules can help lower your federal taxes and make it easier to file a tax return. Here are some of those benefits: Deadline Extensions. Qualifying military members, including those who serve in a combat zone, can postpone some tax deadlines. This includes au-
tomatic extensions of time to file tax returns and pay taxes. Combat Pay Exclusion. If you serve in a combat zone, you can exclude certain combat pay from your income. You won’t need to show the exclusion on your tax return because qualified pay isn’t included in the wages reported on your Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement. Some service outside a combat zone also qualifies for this exclusion. Earned Income Tax Credit. You can choose to include nontaxable combat pay as earned income to figure your EITC. You would
Fort Lee
Commanding General .............Maj. Gen. Larry D. Wyche Garrison Commander .....................Col. Rodney D. Edge Public Affairs Officer...................................D.R. Bingham Command Information/Managing Editor...Patrick Buffett Senior Writer/Special Assignments ......... T. Anthony Bell Production/News Assistant Editor.................. Amy Perry Family/Community Life Reporter ..........................Vacant Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.
make this choice if it increases your credit. Even if you do, the combat pay remains nontaxable. Moving Expense Deduction. If you move due to a permanent change of station, you may be able to deduct some of your unreimbursed moving costs. Uniform Deduction. You can deduct the costs and upkeep of certain uniforms that regulations prohibit you from wearing while off duty. You must reduce your expenses by any reimbursement you receive for these costs. Nontaxable ROTC Allowances. Educational and subsistence allowances paid to ROTC students participating in advanced training are not taxable. However, active duty pay – such as pay received during summer
sider hiring a financial planner to help work out an investment and savings game plan, or to at least review the one you’ve devised. Along with the financial impact retirement will have on your marriage, keep in mind that this may be the first time that you’ve been together, day in and day out. Many people are so consumed by their jobs that they haven’t taken time to develop outside interests and hobbies. Well before retirement, you and your spouse should start exploring activities and networks of friends you can enjoy, both together and independently. And finally, if your plan is to have one spouse continue working for a while, try living on only that one salary for a few months before retiring as an experiment. This will give you an inkling of how well you’ll do financially and whether you might both need to keep working to amass more savings.
advanced camp – is taxable. Civilian Life. After leaving the military, you may be able to deduct certain job-hunting expenses. Expenses may include travel, resume preparation fees and job-placement agency fees. Moving expenses also may be deductible. Tax Help. Most military bases offer free tax preparation and filing assistance during the tax filing season. Some also offer free tax help after April 15. You can learn more about these tax benefits in Publication 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide. The booklet is available on IRS. gov or you can order it by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM.
The Fort Lee “Traveller” is printed by offset process every Thursday as a civilian enterprise in the interest of personnel at the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee, Va. 23801, by Military Newspapers of Virginia, 114 Charlotte Avenue Suite A, Colonial Heights, Va. 23834, in accordance with Department of the Army Regulations 210-20 and 360-1. This publication receives armed forces material and civilian newspapers are authorized to reprint such material without specific clearance except material specifically designated as copyrighted. Liaison between the printer and the commanding general, Fort Lee, is maintained by the Public Affairs Office, Fort Lee. Circulation: 13,000. This Civilian Enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication. Contents of the “Traveller” are not necessarily the official view of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee. Advertising in this publication including inserts or supplements does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army or Military Newspapers of Virginia. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non merit factor. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from that source until violation is corrected. The “Traveller” is an unofficial publication authorized by AR 360-1, and printed by the Military Newspapers of Virginia, a private firm in no way connected with the U. S. Army Combined Arms Support Command or Fort Lee. The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of Headquarters, U. S. Army Garrison, Fort Lee.
DEBT NOTICE Any persons or firms with debts owed to or having just claim against the estate of Staff Sgt. Rudolph V. Barber III, deceased, formerly of the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 16th Ordnance Battalion, 59th Ord. Brigade at Fort Lee, must contact Capt. Robert Heinsohn, the Summary Court Martial Officer for the Soldier. Call (804) 765-9275 or email robert.e.heinsohn2.mil@ mail.mil.
– IRS
COVER
Visa Financial Education Program
THE
Jason Alderman
ON
When retiring together doesn’t make sense
supply employer-provided medical coverage until both reach Medicare eligibility (age 65 in most cases). • One spouse is just hitting his or her stride, career-wise, and isn’t ready to slow down. Among couples who have managed to save enough to retire together, when it comes time to pull the trigger many realize they haven’t fully agreed on where or how to retire; or they discover that their wishes have diverged over the years. This can put tremendous strain on a marriage if you’re not willing to compromise and talk things through. Even before asking the tough questions involved with your retirement plans, you already should have begun estimating your retirement income needs. Social Security has a helpful online Retirement Estimator that can help (www.ssa.gov/estimator). After you’ve explored various retirement scenarios, con-
Patrick Buffett
Department of the Army Security Guards perform their duties at Sisisky Gate on Friday, the first day of furlough for most of Fort Lee’s government civilian workforce. Changes to gate hours resulted in major traffic delays. See story on Page 3.
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 3
Concern, frustration builds as gate backups rack up Patrick Buffett Managing Editor
Long lunchtime and Friday morning waiting lines at the Fort Lee access gates will be a fact of life during the government civilian furlough period. Post leaders have made it clear that manpower constraints – in combination with a new DOD rule that prohibits borrowed military manpower from performing gate guard duties during the furlough – has left them with no other choice than to close or restrict the hours of most installation access points until the end of September. Currently, Sisisky Gate is the only one open 24-7. The Lee and A Avenue entry points are open from 6-9 a.m. and 3-6 p.m. Monday - Thursday and closed Friday - Sunday. Mahone’s Gate hours are 5 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily. The Shop Road Gate is closed, and the Temple Avenue access point on the Ordnance Campus is open from 5 - 8:30 a.m. Monday - Thursday and closed Friday Sunday.
The impact of that schedule was evident on Friday, the first of 11 weekly furlough days. Some motorists were stuck in a line of post-bound traffic for close to an hour during the morning commute. That situation, on top of the delays during lunch hours each weekday, is a cause of growing concern and frustration among those who work or reside on Fort Lee. “Living on post, you almost feel imprisoned,” commented Melody Laughlin in a recent post to the Fort Lee Traveller’s Facebook page. “It takes so long to get back home, you don’t want to leave.” “It used to take maybe two minutes to get to Kenner (Army Health Clinic) from Jackson Circle,” wrote Emily Tagle in an earlier post. “Now, it takes almost a half an hour. How are the gates closed and more guards at Sisisky helping? You know, just so my husband could be home for lunch, I will go check IDs at the Jackson Circle Gate for free so those guards could be used at a different gate.”
“When we have a horrible accident or an ambulance that can’t get to someone in need, I guess we will see how extremely bad (this situation) is,” noted John Durousseau. That comment elicited a response from Regina Marie Amos Mead who wrote, “I figure the more this furlough hurts, the more inclined people will be to vote some of the knuckleheads out of Washington and start electing people who actually give a gosh darn about the Department of Defense.” Maj. David C. Martin, the Fort Lee Provost Marshal, said he understands the frustration among commuters and wants the community to be aware of the rules governing the DOD-imposed furlough that put the post in this current position. “For example, no overtime is currently authorized,” he said. “(Prior to the furlough) that’s how our Department of the Army Security Guards were able to maintain the hours required to run our gates. “Furthermore, we cannot use
Residents urged to conserve energy as summer heats up Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor
As temperatures soar higher and higher these days, many just want to crank up their air conditioners to beat the summer heat. Those living on post, however, should be cautious. The Army Utility Program for privatized family housing requires military members and their families to pay close attention to anything that increases energy consumption, said Wendy Hunter, Residential Communities Initiative housing management specialist.
The Army promotes energy conservation and the utility billing program helps encourage on-post residents to conserve their energy usage by introducing a bill and rebate program, said Hunter. The program works off a community baseline that compares similar households on Fort Lee, so a third of the community is above the baseline, a third is at the baseline and a third is below the baseline. Residents who go over the baseline are responsible for the additional expense of their consumption and those below the baseline receive a rebate for conserving energy.
Patrick Buffett
Department of the Army Civilian Police Sgt. Jesse Ling checks identification cards at Fort Lee’s Sisisky Gate on the first day of the government civilian furlough Friday. Many post-bound motorists were stuck in traffic for close to an hour due to gate closures resulting from the furlough.
borrowed military manpower (contrary to several comments posted on Facebook),” Martin said. “We originally had a plan that included the use of BMM, but received a DOD memo on
“Some on-post residents think they should not have to pay for utilities,” said Hunter. “But we simply cannot afford unlimited usage. It’s only fair for those who use a lot more energy than others to pay the difference. If they lived off post where there is no baseline, they would pay for everything they used.” Bills and rebates have a threshold of $50 on Fort Lee and residents do not receive a bill or a rebate unless the total amount reaches $50. “A lot of times, the residents’ averages fluctuate to where their usage evens out where they go up one month and down the next, and it never reaches the $50 threshold,” said Hunter. Residents are responsible for paying the bills when they are due, said Hunter, and neglecting those charges can have negative effects on the military member’s
July 2 that prohibits that option. … These factors, along with the fact that we are 20 personnel short of our authorized DASG SEE GATES, PAGE 17
credit. “Residents need to know that not paying their utility bills could show up in a credit report,” she said. “Current residents need to pay any outstanding amounts due now. We have had past residents who have called over a year after they cleared housing and stated that a judgment had been filed by the property manager and they need to get it off their credit report because they cannot get a loan.” The bottom line is to pay bills when they are due, said Hunter. Once a judgment is placed on someone, it will be removed once they pay their bill. Those who stay current will have no issues. The Army Utility Program is found in most, if not all, of the privatized housing across the Army. Fort Lee’s program uses $50 as its threshold, while other locations may use different amounts.
4 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
$UP\ WR OLQN RQOLQH WUDLQLQJ WR 1&2 DGYDQFHPHQW Lisa Ferdinando Army News Service
WASHINGTON – The Army will soon require noncommissioned officers to complete online training prior to promotion eligibility. Additionally, NCO schools will no longer be waived. Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, the Army will formally link completion of Structured Self Development, or SSD training, with professional military education courses for promotion eligibility. The changes are outlined in Army Directive 2013-15, dated July 1. Gerald Purcell, Army personnel policy integrator for NCO Professional Development, G-1, said the goal is to shape a new career timeline for NCOs that includes all the tenets of leader development, including education, training and experiences. “Over the last 10 years, we were really an Army out of balance in terms of those three tenets of developing leaders,” Purcell said. “The accumulation of experiences alone does not equate to a fully-developed leader.” The change is part of an initiative to select, train and promote Soldiers who are best qualified in their current grade, and who show the greatest potential to serve in positions of increased responsibility, Purcell said. “Our NCOs are charged with the training and care of our Soldiers while enforcing standards, so it is imperative we equip them with the best tools we can to help them do their job,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III. “Connecting the NCO Education System and promotions in a deliberate, continuous, sequential and progressive manner produces the best NCO Corps possible. It gives us the competent and committed leaders of character our Army needs and deserves.” The effort, according to Purcell, will foster a balance of training, education and experience, while encouraging life-long learning and development of broadlyskilled NCOs. Another important aspect is to sustain an all-volunteer force by providing viable career paths. He said that while the Army is an efficient organization that is effective operationally, the other aspects of leader development must not be overlooked. “We’ve really paid the price because
while operational experience is great, it in and of itself doesn’t make great leaders because you still need the education and the training to round it all out,” said Purcell. NCOs had been allowed to serve 30 years, and then would have to retire. Purcell said the NCO timeline was extended to 32 years to allow for the completion of those three tenets and to foster the development of the world’s most professional NCO Corps. The Army is an “up or out” organization, Purcell said. The policies support a fundamental baseline by which professionals remain technically and tactically proficient with continued opportunities for development and advancement. The directive notes that Soldiers should be considered for promotion when they achieve competency in their current rank and exhibit the potential to serve successfully at the next higher rank, which entails an increased level of responsibility. The areas Soldiers must excel in to advance include professional competence, team building, adaptability, lifelong learning and comprehensive fitness. Some of the requirements for advancement include: • Specialists and corporals must complete SSD-1 before they can be recommended (boarded) to sergeant. • Sergeants must complete the Warrior Leader Course before they can be recommended (boarded) to staff sergeant. • Staff sergeants must complete SSD-3 before they are eligible for consideration for sergeant first class. • Sergeants first class must complete SSD-4 before they are eligible for consideration for master sergeant. The directive states waivers for the Warrior Leader Course, known as WLC, will no longer allow sergeants to be considered for promotion. Soldiers who had been previously granted WLC waivers must graduate from the course no later than Sept. 30, 2014. Soldiers who are deployed when the changes go into effect, will have up to 270 days after redeployment to complete the course. Reservecomponent Soldiers will have up to 270 days after release from active duty to complete the WLC. The directive says Soldiers who do not complete the required WLC training will be removed from the promotion list for staff sergeant or reduced to sergeant.
Life at Lee The 5th annual Life at Lee event – sponsored by HBC Property Managers, LLC – will take place on July 20, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Welcome Center, 1510 Sisisky Blvd. Admission is free. All residents of Fort Lee Family Housing are invited. The celebration will feature food, music, games and prize giveaways. Youth activities will include a bounce house, face painting, the Splash Park, temporary tattoos and more. Donated prizes from local vendors include a flat screen television, a Wii U and a gas grill. For details, call (804) 733-1558.
ACAP IT Career Workshop An Information Technology Career Workshop will be offered by the Army Career and Alumni Program on Aug. 1, 1:30 - 4 p.m., at the Soldier Support Center, 1401 B Ave., building 3400, room 124. Representatives from the New Horizons Computer Learning Centers, Virginia Employment Commission and Capital Region Workforce Investment Board will speak to participants on the projections and opportunities in the IT industry. For registration, call (804) 734-6612 or email acap.lee@serco-na.com.
Field Sanitation Team Training Kenner Environmental Health will provide Soldiers with FST training, Aug. 26-30, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at building 6071 (between Shop Road and A Avenue off of 11th Street.) This important training is key to mission sustainment – and each companysized unit must have at least two Soldiers certified. There are only 50 slots available and it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Soldiers must not be interrupted during the training. For registration and details, email christopher.t.carter@us.army.mil or tiffany.a.brownhoward.mil@mail.mil.
Applications for Reduced-Price Meals Prince George County Schools provide free or reduced-price meals for children under the National School Lunch, and/or School Breakfast Programs. Household size and income are used to determine eligibility. Some families will receive automatic notification of eligibility by Aug. 30. Others must submit an application. To apply for free or reduced-price meals, parents must only fill out one application per household and return it to the school division. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year. For an application or details, call (804) 733-2710.
CIF Closure The Central Issue Facility, located in buildings 1603 and 6241, will be closed to conduct a 100-percent inventory of all OCIE items, July 29 - Aug. 2. Emergencies will be handled on a case-by-case basis by contacting Darius Nicholson at (804) 734-3062 or darius.l.nicholson.civ@mail.mil, or Ralph Anderson at (804) 734-3575 or ralph.g.anderson.ctr@mail.mil. During the closure, a staff member will also be posted at the South “Exit Only” door of building 1603.
Dental Clinics Closure The Bull Dental Clinic and the dental section at Mosier Troop Medical Clinic on the Ordnance Campus will be closed for a commander’s call and mandatory training on the morning of Aug. 1. The Bull Clinic will reopen at 12:30 p.m. for emergencies and appointment scheduling. All dental emergencies from the full Fort Lee community should report to the Bull Clinic. The Mosier dental section will close for the full day. Both clinics will reopen Aug. 2 at 7:30 a.m. For details, call (804) 734-9617.
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6 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
Philippine soldier, former boxer relishes opportunity to study here T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects
Sgt. Maximino Tabangcora III has served his country in more ways than one. The 32-year-old father of three is currently an ordnance soldier in the Philippine army. But Tabangcora’s earlier days in the military – a career that started in 1999 – weren’t spent preparing uniforms or training for maneuvers. They were focused on the confines of a boxing ring where he attained world-class status and represented the army in national and international competitions. Tabangcora is attending the Quartermaster School’s Supply Specialist Course here and nurturing a rare opportunity to study outside his country. “It’s a big honor for me to come to the U.S.,” said the native of the North Cotabato province, “especially considering that so few are chosen to come.” Tabangcora said he went through a rigorous process for the opportunity to train here. “We have undergone so many eliminations and boards,” he said.
Good proficiency ratings and good performance in schools are also factors in determining who attends U.S. military schools, he added. High standards of performance have been a hallmark of Tabangcora since the start of his military career that began as a boxer in a specialduty status. Fighting in the middleweight division (160 pounds), he captured a bronze medal in the 2001 Southeast Asian Games (SEA), a multi-national event that serves as a warm-up to the Olympic Games. He also finished second in the Philippine national championships two years later. Tabangcora’s fighting aspirations hit a snag in 2003. He did not make the SEA team and missed out on the Olympic trials leading to the 2004 Athens games. Returning to regular duty status shortly after the games, Tabangcora made his way back into the ring in late 2006, fighting as a light heavyweight (175 pounds). That return resulted in an achievement that highlighted his boxing career – a silver medal earned at the 2007 SEA games. He stepped away from boxing for good the following year.
Tabangcora has since taken up taekwondo and captured a heavyweight gold medal in the 2012 interservice championships. Of his once-in-a-lifetime visit to the United States, Tabangcora said the language barrier has been a challenge, especially in school, because he isn’t accustomed to the way most Americans speak. “I understand English, but I may not understand the way Americans speak English,” he said, noting many citizens make greater use of informal expressions and phrases. “It’s different in the Philippines. We don’t speak slang.” Tabangcora’s lack of English comprehension,hasn’t, however, clouded his view of all the country offers. He said he has been taken with the vastness of the land and the warmth of its citizenry. “I’m overwhelmed at how beautiful this country is and its people,” he said. “I see that Americans are
/HH 3OD\KRXVH DQQRXQFHV WKHDWHU VHDVRQ The Theater Company at Fort Lee recently announced its 2013-2014 performances. The season opener is “Something’s Afoot.” This musical-murder mystery spoofs the crackling old detective stories, particularly Agatha Christie’s classic novel, “And Then There Were None.” The story focuses on a group of people who are invited to the lake estate of a wealthy lord. When their host is found dead, the guests race against the clock to find out “whodunit.” Performance dates are Sept. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and Sept. 8, 15 and 22
at 3 p.m. The second show is “Dancing at Lughnasa,” the Tony Award-winning production by Irish playwright Brian Friel. Set in Ballybeg, Ireland, in 1936, “Dancing at Lughnasa” is a story of the five unmarried Mundy sisters, scrambling to survive while holding out hope for love. Into this mix comes their elder brother, who returned home from life as a missionary in Africa, and a charming Welsh drifter who strolls into the life of the youngest sister after abandoning her and their son years ago.
and accommodating,” he said. Now beyond the halfway point of the two-month supply course, Tabangcora said he has visited various points of interest in the local area as well as in other states. A Filipino-American Soldier and his family, he said, have acted as informal sponsors and have been more than happy to act as guides and help him to better understand American culture. Unfortunately, there are times when students lack sponsors. The International Military Student Office at the Army Logistics University directly supports all international students attending courses within Sustainment Center of Excellence schools. Becky Joyner, IMSO’s Field Studies program manager, said sponsors are always needed to support the needs of students from roughly 70 countries. Their stay here, she said, is T. Anthony Bell greatly enhanced by volunSgt. Maximino Tabangcora III teers – primary escorts and social sponsors – who act very courteous -- they greet you evas knowledgeable ambassaerywhere you go.” dors of goodwill and who embody Tabangcora said that consider- American ideals and principles. ation includes his classmates, who Those who are interested in suphave been especially helpful as he porting the Field Studies or Social acclimates to his new surroundings. Sponsor program can contact “They have been very supportive Joyner at (804) 765-8159.
Performance dates are Nov. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 3, 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. February offering this season is “The Chalk Garden.” The arrival of the mysterious Miss Madrigal upsets the delicate balance of the relationship between the British dowager Mrs. St. Maugham and her equally eccentric granddaughter Laurel in this entertaining mix of comedy, country -house thriller and psychological drama. Performance dates are Feb. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 9, 16 and 23 at 3 p.m. The final main stage production of the season is “Big River,” based on the novel, “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, “by Mark Train. Huckleberry Finn and Jim navigate the mighty Mississippi in an
amusing, suspenseful and heartwarming search for freedom. Classic characters like Tom Sawyer, Widow Douglas, the sinister Pap Fin and the uproarious King and Duke help bring this theatrical celebration of Americana to life. The award-winning score is by Roger Miller (famous for “King of the Road”). Performance dates are May 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. and May 4, 11 and 18 at 3 p.m. Season tickets are available for the main stage productions for $40 for all four shows. Tickets for a single production for any of the plays may be purchased for $12 each. For details or to subscribe, call (804) 734-6629. – Family and MWR
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 7
AMERICA’S MILITARY | SPOTLIGHT
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8 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
KENNER CONNECTION | NEW FACILITIES Angela Allin, registered nurse and certified lactation specialist, Col. Thomas S. Bundt, Kenner Army Health Clinic commander, and Dr. Janet West-Brown, Wilkerson Pediatric Clinic chief, officially open the clinic’s lactation room. It features two chairs, a sink, a diaper-changing station and a refrigerator. Nursing and lactating mothers who are employees or beneficiaries of Kenner may use the room to breastfeed or pump breast milk.
Kimberly K. Fritz
1(: /$&7$7,21 5220 23(16 Tereasa Wade Kenner Army Health Clinic Public Affairs Officer
Kenner Army Health Clinic recently opened a Lactation Room for nursing mothers’ comfort and convenience when visiting or working in the facility. The new room is part
of a Northern Regional Medical Command initiative to provide a workplace lactation room and program to lower absenteeism rates and improve employee morale. Room LO7 is located on the first floor of the clinic, right side of the main hallway across from the Eagle
Mike & Caroline Cooper
Eye clinic. It is open to all patients, visitors, employees and volunteers within the clinic. “We want our nursing moms to have a comfortable and private place where they can either breastfeed or pump free from intrusion,” said Dr. Janet West-Brown, Chief,
Wilkerson Pediatric Clinic. “Breastfeeding is one of the most important things a mother can do for her baby, and we want to support that. The lactation room helps by reducing the stress and anxiety associated with nursing or pumping outside the comfort of home.” While Virginia law al-
lows mothers to breastfeed in public places, the room is available if mothers want to breastfeed in private. “The Lactation Room is another way we are showing our commitment to quality health care for our patients, staff and family members,” said Col. Thomas S. Bundt, KAHC commander. “We took an existing office and completely renovated it to provide a home-like setting for nursing mothers that we think will help meet the needs of our Fort Lee community. The room is
fully outfitted and provides a patient centered atmosphere to promote health and improve patient and staff satisfaction,” said Bundt. The room has two rocker recliners with footrests and side tables with outlets in the wall for plugging in pumps. Nursing moms must bring their own pump. A refrigerator has been installed to store the milk and a sink is also available in the room. The room can accommodate two nursing mothers and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The staff is asking moms to complete an anonymous annotation in the lactation room customer logbook in order to track usage and obtain feedback for future improvements. In addition to the lactation room, Kenner Army Health Clinic has a fulltime Certified Lactation Consultant, Angela Allin, RN, who works at the Pediatric Clinic. Her role is to support and build mothers’ confidence in breastfeeding through education and face-to-face consultation. Call (804) 734-9125 for more information.
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www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 9
IT’S THE LAW | SAME-SEX COUPLE GUIDANCE
([WHQGLQJ PLOLWDU\ EHQHÀWV WR VDPH VH[ FRXSOHV Paulette Franklin-Jenkins SJA Legal Assistance Attorney
The second anniversary of the certification to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is July 22. On that date in 2011, President Barack Obama, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, officially certified to Congress that the U.S. military branches were prepared to repealf the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy effective Sept. 20, 2011. This ended the ban on homosexuals openly serving in the armed services without fear of reprisal. Although the repeal of DADT did not provide any new rights or policy protections to same sex partners, policy changes have been underway for several months. In February, the Secretary of Defense announced the extension of certain benefits
At ease.
to same-sex domestic partners of military members. Legal assistance is one of the benefits listed. To qualify for this extension of benefits, the same-sex partner will have to present a dependant ID card that can be obtained after the military member and partner complete a Declaration of Domestic Partnership. Eligibility will be terminated once the military member notifies their service branch of the dissolution of the domestic partnership. Full implementation of these changes is expected by Sept. 1. Nevertheless, certain benefits such as health care, housing, burial and command sponsorship overseas would still only be available to heterosexual spouses. However, this may be changing. On June 26, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as between a man and a woman for pur-
poses of federal law, violates the due process and equal protection clause under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution. Shortly after the ruling, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel issued the following statement: “The Department of Defense welcomes the Supreme Court’s decision today on the Defense of Marriage Act. The department will immediately begin the process of implementing the Supreme Court’s decision in consultation with the Department of Justice and other executive branch agencies. The DOD intends to make the same benefits available to all military spouses – regardless of sexual orientation – as soon as possible. That is now the law, and it is the right thing to do.” Just how or when these policies will be implemented remains to be seen. There are many questions to be answered and procedures to be developed. The Fort Lee Legal Assistance Office is following these developments and will keep everyone informed as the policies, practice and procedures are implemented. To contact the legal office, call (804) 765-1500.
RXWUHDFK
Contributed Photo
Col. Thomas S. Bundt, Kenner Army Health Clinic commander, speaks to the veterans of American Legion Post 284 in Colonial Heights during a July 9 meeting. The colonel discussed the impact of the government civilian employee furlough, noting that most of Kenner’s non-military workforce will be off the payroll on Fridays and that will result in limited services at the clinic.
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10 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
&KHHUPDQLD Photos by Amy Perry
(ABOVE) Participants of the SKIES Unlimited Cheermania camp link arms for a routine during a session Tuesday at the Child Development Center Multi-purpose program gym. (LEFT) Kaelyn Fitch, front, and Caelyn Lower kick their feet during a dance routine at the cheerleader camp. The program taught the participants several cheers and a dance routine. For more photos, visit www.ftleetraveller.com.
UHDGLQJ PDJLF Rob Westcott performs magic tricks during the Fort Lee Community Library’s Summer Reading Program kickoff event on July 9 in the multipurpose room of the Army Logistics University. More than 50 children and parents participated in the event and signed up for the reading program that continues through Aug. 13. Additional reading program activities are offered each Tuesday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the library. Each event features a story and a craft project. The reading program is open to all ages and those wishing to participate can pick up a reading log at the library circulation desk. For more information, call (804) 765-8095.
Contributed Photo
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 11
Southpark Crossing Shopping Center 1082 Temple Avenue, Colonial Heights, VA navyfederal.org 1.888.842.6328
Federally insured by NCUA. Image used for representational purposes only; does not imply government endorsement. Š 2013 Navy Federal NFCU 12617_Lee (6-13)
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 13
12 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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®º¸»° °¿´¿´º¹ T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects
(CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) Pfc. Kelli Hollins removes handguards from an M-16 during a July 10 competitive training event here. About 70 Soldiers from the 54th Quartermaster Company participated in a day-long exercise that emphasized basic warrior skills. • Amid 90-degree temperatures, Pfc. Reden Ocampo peers down at the bottom of his jacket to fasten the straps of his protective gear. • Pfc. Terese Urquhart stands ready for the next task after correctly donning her protective mask. • Staff Sgt. Daniel Quigg checks the mask seal of Pvt. Delric McNeal. • Spc. Stephanie Trevino disassembles her weapon as Sgt. 1st Class Steven Lanning observes. • Spc. Donald Moss demonstrates his ability to hydrate while wearing his protective mask.
“
New, unusual and challenging” are all good words to hear when listening to a description of a military training event. Soldiers of Fort Lee’s 54th Quartermaster Company cited those factors and more during a July 10 exercise here that incorporated an element of competition while emphasizing basic warrior skills. “They were definitely more involved,” said Sgt. Donna Grady, the noncommissioned officer in charge of unit training and one of the evaluators during the event. “The spirit of competition increased their focus and gave them the motivation to shine. It was different than regular sergeant’s time training where they’re listening, but not always attentive.” Grady said roughly 70 Soldiers participated in the exercise that took place in the company area and included several Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills. “The main goal was to get Soldiers engaged, increase their confidence and build proficiency in basic warrior skills,” said Grady while the competition was still in process. She also said the unit billed it as something to help its members prepare for the boards, whether it’s for Soldier of the month, promotion or qualification for the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club. “We want them
to shine; we want them to have that expoosure because we have a lot of outstanding Soldiers here,” said Grady. Unit members showcased their skills at three stations during the training: M-16 familiarization; Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear; and a radio communications statiion focusing on 9-line medical evacuation procedures. Each station featured the usual conditioons and standards for each task performed, and awards were presented to thhe Soldier with the best overall score and those who scored highest on eachh task. Spc. Stephanie Trevino, a member of thee unit since 2010, said the event greatly increased her enthusiasm. “To see everyone go through the differrent stations, and to challenge myself like this – I felt it was a great opporttunity, and I think we should do it more often as a refresher,” she said after completing the M-16 station.” Sweating as a result of the 90-degree--plus temperatures and humid conditions, Trevino also said the element off competition added some measure of incentive. “You know what they say, ‘One team, onne fight,’” she said, “well, when it’s an individual competition, that’s the reeal test because you’re always used to having people on your team and puulling your weight. In a competition, you’re relying on yourself.” Pfc. Kelli Hollins agreed, adding that thhe competition veiled the fact that the training content was unchanged.
“Everything was brought to us in a different way this time,” she said. “It was interesting and instructional because I learned some things I never learned before, and being a new Soldier, I can appreciate that.” Hollins said she didn’t learn to disassemble an M-16 in basic combat training, but she learned in preparation for the competition. “I always have trouble with removing the handguards,” she said of the M-16, “but I passed. I did it in a minute and 22 seconds. I’m happy.” Whereas Hollins sported a toothy smile as a result of her accomplishment, Spc. Daniel Guzman was more reserved, yet expressed his excitement with the day’s events. “It was pretty fun; pretty eventful,” he said. “We don’t get to do competitions like this. I really enjoyed myself.” The event also elicited the element of challenge. Pfc. Amanda Fairfax, who has been assigned to the unit for one year, said the 9-line medical evacuation has been a source of frustration since basic training. .“I’ve always had to ask questions about it,” she said. “That way, I can maybe better understand it. The training today was the first time I actually understood it.” Soldiers were recognized for earning the best score at each station. The Soldier with the best combined score was also cited. To win the competition, Soldiers were judged on how well they recited the “The Soldier’s Creed” and “The Army Values” in addition to their timed performances at each station.
Photos by T. Anthony Bell
14 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
Army veteran recalls Camp Lee, World War II experiences in Pacific Ray Kozakewicz Production Assistant
World War II Army veteran Joe Commander had a short Camp Lee experience 70 years ago in July 1943, but the 97year-old’s service with the Third Engineer Special Brigade in New Guinea and the Philippines is most memorable. “… Just three days… we got shots … and all we did was sit around for three days,” the former Army sergeant and Norfolk native said in describing his short stay at Camp Lee. With the help of his son Dick Commander, the veteran recently recounted his Army service four days before the anniversary of his enlistment. “My dad is really proud of his World War II experiences and loves to talk about them,” said his son. “He was drafted in Norfolk at age 27 and inducted into the Army on July 13, 1943, at Camp Lee.” “We lived in tents at Camp Lee,” said the elder Commander in response to a question about living accommodations. He estimated there were 200 other men being processed with him during the three days – some traveled from the Norfolk area by train with him. “We got our uniforms too … they did not train us (at Camp Lee),” he noted. His room at the Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center on the campus of Richmond’s McGuire VA Hospital is filled with photo albums, pictures on the walls, books, magazines maps and many more mementoes from World War II. He clearly enjoys looking at the collection and easily recalls the dates and details about his time in the Army. He also wears his dog tags and a black cap adorned with his service ribbons and rank. After Camp Lee, Commander returned to Norfolk for a short leave to be with this wife Arline who was pregnant with a scheduled due date in late September. Two weeks later he boarded a train in Norfolk and headed to California for basic training at Fort Ord. “Six days on a troop train – a long trip,” recalled Commander. He had never been out of Virginia. He has good memories of Fort Ord and his basic training. “I was there two weeks and threw one grenade – that was enough,” said Commander. “I also fired an M1 rifle and got a sharpshooter badge.” Recalling previous stories his dad had recounted over the years, Dick Commander said the Army discovered his previous experience as a salesman and decided to assign him to a supply position with the Third Special Brigade’s Headquarters Company. “His basic training was not as rigorous as Soldiers assigned to other units,” Dick said. “His job was to support the assault troops before and after landings.” Commander’s sales background was in all kinds of paper products – cups, napkins, toilet paper and more – that he sold to hotels, restaurants and schools, said his son. Following basic training, Commander requested a furlough to return to Norfolk by train to be with his wife during
Ray Kozakewicz
Contributed Photo
World War II Army veteran Joe Commander, now 97, poses for a picture July 9 at the Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center in Richmond while holding an ashtray – topped with a P38 aircraft replica – he made with 105 mm and 50 caliber shells while in New Guinea.
Joe Commander, then 27, poses for a photo in 1944 while serving in the U.S. Army Third Engineer Special Brigade, Headquarters Company, in New Guinea. In the war, he helped maintain a steady flow of goods – equipment, food, petroleum, clothing and general supplies – across thousands of miles of ocean.
child birth. “This was a regular train ... with many Army spouses,” he noted. While he was glad to be home with his wife, she did not have her baby during his leave. “All I got to do was pat her on her tummy,” said Commander as he reached out with his right hand to illustrate. Dick Commander was born a few weeks later and his father was not able to see him for two years and two months. With his short furlough over, it was back on another crosscountry train to Fort Ord where he subsequently boarded a ship for the long voyage to the South Pacific from San Francisco. He landed on Good Enough Island in the eastern part of New Guinea in November 1943 after 29 days on the USS Rawlings. The veteran said he knew the ship’s destination was New Guinea, but only the officers had the details on what island they would land on. “... first time on a ship... went under the Gold Gate Bridge ... played a lot of blackjack... not a drop of rain ... got seasick,” he recalled.
Commander’s service accomplishments with the Special Brigade in New Guinea and the Philippines brought out a number of other recollections. Over the course of nearly two years, he followed and helped supply the troops from island-to-island across New Guinea and then to the Philippines in more than 60 landings. The New Guinea islands also included Finschhaven, Biak, Dog Island and many others. He remembered that while on the island of Biak there were Japanese bombings. “We were bombed one day ... I was not hurt.” During mail calls, he, along with others, received a beer and cigarettes with the packages and letters from home. “I sent V-mails (home),” he said. “We had lots of spam,” said Commander in recalling what kind of chow they ate. “... and New Zealand lamb.” That was a delicacy that the Australian soldiers who also were serving on New Guinea would share from time to time. SEE VETERAN, PAGE 21
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 15
OFF DUTY IN THE COMMUNITY | AREA
ATTRACTIONS
5('6.,16 ,1 5,&+021' Fans of the National Football League are invited to observe pre-season scrimmages at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center from July 25 – August 16th. Admission to the center is free. Two practice sessions are tentatively scheduled for each day of training camp. The scrimmages range be-
tween one to two hours each. Following practice, Redskins players and coaches will be available to sign autographs and take pictures with fans, schedules permitting. Fans are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on during their visit. No bleachers are available on site. Visitors can walk around designated areas outside the prac-
tice fields to watch their favorite players. Glass bottles, video cameras and animals are not permitted. Food and beverages will be available for fans to purchase on site. Outside beverages and food are not allowed on the training center premises. To view the schedule, visit redskinsrva. Bonsecours.Com/
Contributed photo
calendar. Join the Redskins in Richmond and learn more about the state-of-the-art training center. If you like to mix
your football with family fun, this is the event for you. Look for Redskins fan discounts throughout the Richmond area, to
include hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Those interested in visiting the training center are encouraged to fill out a free Washington Redskins training camp fan invitation, which will be available on www.Redskins. Com/trainingcamp. Print out the completed invitation and bring it with you when you visit the training center. The city of Richmond offers a variety of paid parking options for Redskins fans during training camp.
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†Certain Optima GDI models are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally-sourced parts. 1Military Bonus from Kia Motors America, Inc., available to active members of the United States Armed Forces or Reserves, or the immediate family of the participant (spouse or child) on the purchase of a new 2012 or 2013 Optima. Proper identification must be provided. Military Bonus may not be used in conjunction with any financing through KMF, HMF, or AmeriCredit. Must take delivery from participating Kia retailer’s stock by 8/5/13. See retailer for incentive details. 2Competitive Bonus available to current owners of select non-Kia vehicles upon purchase of a new 2013 Optima. Must take delivery from retail stock by 8/5/13. Incentive not available for other Kia vehicles. See retailer for incentive details. 3Max HP for 2.0L GDI Turbo engine is 274 HP @ 6,000 rpm. Turbo engine available only on SX and SX Limited. 40% APR financing, through participating Kia retailers, for 24 – 60 months available to A+ credit qualified buyers financing the purchase of a new 2013 Optima through Kia Motors Finance (KMF) (Hyundai Motor Finance (HMF) in MA and DC), subject to KMF/HMF approval. (Example: Total cost of installment sale for 2013 Optima LX based on 0% APR would be $22,150 payable in 60 monthly payments of $369.16. No down payment or trade-in required.) Bonus Cash from KMF with KMF financing as down payment only. Must take delivery from retail stock by 8/5/13. See retailer for incentive details or go to kia.com. *Optional features are not available on all trims.
16 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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STROSNIDER CHEVROLET 5200 Oaklawn Blvd., Hopewell • www.strosniderchevrolet.com • 804-458-9864 Does not include tages, title, taxes and $199 processing fee • Sale ends 7/22/2013
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www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 17
Spc. Carlos Morales Rodriguez from the 392nd Army Band performs for youngsters of the Chester Child Development Center during a July 3 community outreach event. Two groups – the Battlefield Brass Band and the Liberty Winds – from Fort Lee visited the center to introduce the CDC children to various types of music and give them an up-close look at how wind and brass instruments work. Many of the same band members were in the spotlight once again the following day as the featured performers of Fort Lee’s annual Fourth at the Fort celebration.
Contributed Photo
GATES | PMO responds to issues,
complaints about gate backups Continued from page 3 strength, put us in this current situation. Any reductions in personnel or unforeseen, last minute call-outs due to medical or emergency situations will trigger additional changes.” Martin also addressed Facebook comments relating to the number of guards on duty at Sisisky Gate. Kelly Hill Abbe was among those who observed four or even six DASG’s at that location and wondered why two of them couldn’t be sent elsewhere to temporarily open a gate and relieve some of the traffic congestion. “Scheduling the (guards) required to maintain the current hours is a complex orchestration of manpower,” Martin said. “You may see 5-6 guards at Sisisky for a very short period as shift transitions occur. We’re also rerouting all commercial traffic through Sisisky and two of the guards at that location are dedicated to the inspection of those vehicles while any others on site continue to inspect ID cards for regular traffic.”
The access gate situation is being “continuously assessed,” according to Martin, and additional refinements will be “a balancing act between available manpower and meeting the needs of the community.” There are a few things post motorists can do to ease traffic congestion and possibly reduce their frustration level during busy gate hours. Carpooling as much as possible to reduce the number of vehicles coming onto post is among the more obvious solutions. Employees can opt to eat on-post during the lunch hour as well. All FMWR and AAFES Food service facilities on the installation are open to employees, students, families and visitors. For the Friday morning commute, consider using the Mahone Avenue gate, which typically sees less traffic than Sisisky. “Above all, safety should be the No. 1 concern,” Martin said. “Careless driving could result in an accident that would further tie up traffic and, worse yet, cause possible injuries or a fatality. Slow down and get here safe. In light of the circumstances, I think that’s the best advice I can give.”
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Bobbie Carr
Caring Canines therapy dog Sadie and her owner Cindy Robinson listen to a story read by one of the youth participants of the inaugural Read-2-Rover program at the Fort Lee Community Library on July 15. The program encourages literacy among children and is said to be “ideally suited” for beginners who struggle with reading in front of others. The comfort and companionship of the therapy dogs help to turn something that is stressful into an activity that is typically fun and soothing. The program will continue every third Monday of each month from 5-6 p.m. at the post library. It is open to any child in the community up to age 12. Parents are asked to call the library at (804) 765-8095 no later than noon on the day of the event to sign up their children. The Community Library is located on the second floor of the Army Logistics University on 34th Street.
18 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE
EVENTS Right Arm Night | July 18 Right Arm Night has moved to Thursdays with the next event set for July 18, 4 p.m., at the Regimental Club. The Family and MWR gathering offers a time for bosses to relax and build camaraderie off duty with their “right arm� throughout the year. Right Arm Night will be held each third Thursday of the month throughout the government civilian furlough period. Snacks and pool will be available at no charge with drink specials. For details, call (804) 765-1523.
Bowling | Ongoing Three bowling options for military and community members are being offered by Family and MWR at the Fort Lee Bowling Center, building 9040, Battle Drive. Organizational team building bowling is available, Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. 3 p.m. The cost is $5 per lane for hourly games – up to eight people per lane – and $1 for shoes for teams of 12 people or more. Reservations are required and subject to lane availability. Rainy day bowling is available any day of the week until Aug. 30. The parents’ game and shoes are free when bowling with a paid child’s game each day that it rains. Bowling is subject to lane availability. A Happier Hour League will be offered through Aug. 8. The cost is $10 per night for each bowler and the league is limited to 20 teams. A cash prize will be awarded to the top team after a 20-team sign-up. For details on all the bowling options, call (804) 734-6860.
FORT LEE COMMUNITY
Summer Reading | July 23 The Fort Lee Community Library holds free Summer reading events each Tuesday through Aug. 13, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. The next program is July 23, and it will feature a story time and a craft. All families in the community are welcome to participate. The library is located on the 2nd floor of Army Logistics University, building 12420, 34th Street. For details, call (804) 765-8095.
Swimming Lessons | July 29 - Aug. 8 The final swimming class session will be offered by Fort Lee Family and MWR at the Battle Drive Pool, July 29 - Aug. 8. Participants should be at least 5 years of age. The cost is $45 for military and $50 for DOD Civilians. For registration and details, call (804) 765-3852.
Bike Nights | Every Wednesday “Bike Nights� are held at the Hideaway every Wednesday starting at 4 p.m. Riders of cruisers, sport tourers, dual sports, super motos and other motorcycles can come together for fun and camaraderie. Those who have been riding for decades or are just starting out, will surely enjoy this evening of fun, music and “chrome envy.� The HideAway is located on 5th Street next to the Outdoor Recreation Center. For details, call (804) 765-1539.
Job Fair | July 30 A job fair is set for July 30, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Regimental Club. The event is sponsored by the Army Career and Alumni
FAITH AND HOPE TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 1800 E. Washington St. • Petersburg, Virginia 23803-3635 (Less than 1 mile from the Ft. Lee Main Gate)
Telephone: (804) 861-3898 • Fax: (804) 861-3884 Email: FHT1800EWS@AOL.COM Website: www.faithandhopetemple.org HERMAN CROCKETT, JR. PASTOR MARTHA CROCKETT, FIRST LADY SCHEDULE OF SERVICES Sunday: Worship Services: 10:00am Saturday: Intercessory Prayer 9:00am Tuesday: Church School 7:00pm Radio Broadcast “Greater Anointingâ€? by Pastor Crockett can be heard everyday on 97.7 FM and WGGM 820 AM from 11:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
BRAND
NEW
HOMES FOR LESS THAN USED
Program, and more than 40 service, merchandising and manufacturing employers plan to participate. The event is for military members and veterans only with proper government ID. Pre-registration is required by calling (804) 734-6612 or via email to acap.lee@ serco-na.com.
p.m. with a tournament start time of 6 p.m. Cost is $5 each night. Prizes will be given to top placement winners. For details, call (804) 765-3058.
Line Dancing | Wednesdays
Scream-Free Parenting Class | Aug. 7, 14, 21
Free line dancing lessons for all ages are held Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at the Regimental Club. An instructor will teach the cupid shuffle, the electric slide, the wobble, the cha-cha and other line dances ranging from soul to country. For details, call (804) 765-1523.
The ACS Family Advocacy Program will offer three Scream-Free Parenting Classes on Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 11:45 a.m.12:45 p.m., at Army Community Service, building 9023, 1231 Mahone Ave. This three-part program will offer parents advice on how to be calm and avoid yelling at children and others. There will be no childcare available for the sessions. For details and to RSVP, call (804) 7347353.
Read-2-Rover | Aug. 19 The next Read-2-Rover program will be held on Aug. 19, 5-6 p.m., at the Fort Lee Community Library. The event is open to any child in the community up to age 12. Parents are asked to call the library by noon on the day of the program to sign up their children. Up to 15 youths will be accepted for each session. The program is offered every third Monday. All families in the community are welcome. The library is located on the 2nd floor of Army Logistics University, building 12420, 34th Street. For details, call (804) 765-8095.
Texas Hold’em Tournaments | Tuesdays Texas Hold’em No Limit Tournaments are now played each Tuesday at the Regimental Club. The next days are July 23 and 30. Registration begins at 5:30
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ACS
Relocation Readiness | Ongoing Four Relocation Readiness classes are offered by ACS at Fort Lee. The next Overseas Briefings are set for Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, 9 a.m. - noon, at the Soldier Support Center. The other classes are 10 a.m. - noon at the ACS building. Hearts Apart will meet Aug. 2 and Sept. 6. Immigration and Citizenship will meet Aug. 6 and Sept. 4. ESponsorship and Application Training will meet July 23 and Aug. 27. ACS also holds a newcomers’ briefing every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Soldier Support Center. Spouses are welcome. For details or registration, call (804) 734-6388.
You know that noise your heart makes when you work out? IT’S CALLED APPLAUSE. , ) 2 /( (,') 1 2 ( 2 / ( ), 2 " 2) 2 , 0 % , ), 0 , & (2 " 2 /( , 1 ), ( ) ,/( , , , % ( ( 1 2) , 1 ( 2 /( ( ) (, ,, ),( 0 ) , 111% ( (,% ( ( ! 33 !% ) )" "( 0 ) "/ ) (0 % ! ( (, )) ,
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 19
Calendar, continued SPORTS & FITNESS Get Fit, Stay Fit | Daily A variety of weekly fitness classes are available through the Family and MWR Sports Office. The cost is usually $4 per class, and a fitness card may be used for most. The 10-class punch card costs $20. Some classes are free. Yoga (Iyengar and Vinyasa) is free for active duty military and spouses of deployed troops. Classes for which there is a fee include Boot Camp, Yoga (Iyengar and Vinyasa), Aerobics, Core Conditioning and Spinning. Free classes include Workout with Weights in the House of Pain and yoga. Restorative yoga is free to everyone. For details, call (804) 734-6198.
YOUTH CYSS Soccer Camp | July 22-26 A SKIES Unlimited soccer camp for ages
7-17, sponsored by Child, Youth and School Services, will be held July 22-26, at the Fort Lee Soccer Field behind the Youth Center, building 6008, 16th and A Ave. The cost is $135 for a full-day program, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., and $95 for a half day, 8 a.m. noon. Children 7-9 years old can only attend the half-day camp. All participants must be registered with CYSS. For registration and details, call (804) 765-3852 or 765-3196, or email chaundra. taswell@us.army.mil.
CYSS Dance Exploration Workshops | July 29 - Aug. 2 Child, Youth and School Services will offer SKIES Unlimited dance exploration workshops for ages 6-14, July 29 - Aug. 2, 8 a.m. - noon, at the Multi-Program Child Development Center, building 10622, Battle Drive. The cost is $65. Instructors will help the children learn self-discipline, develop coordination, improve musicality, meet new friends and have fun. This is an ideal class for beginning and experienced dance students. All participants must be registered
with CYSS. For registration and details, call (804) 765-3852 or 765-3196,
Before, After-School, Part-Day and PreSchool Registration | Aug. 1 and 5 Before-and-after-school registration for children attending kindergarten - 5th grade in Prince George County Schools will begin on Aug. 1, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at CYSS Parent Central Services, building 10624, Yorktown Drive. Children can attend before, after, or both before and after care. Part-day preschool/pre-K registration begins Aug. 5, and is for children 3-4. It is available for two, three or five days a week, and for 3-hour morning or afternoon sessions. The pre-K program is for children who will attend kindergarten during the 2014-15 school year. Parents are asked to register their children with CYSS prior to the registration dates. The cost for all programs is based on total family income. For registration and details, call (804) 765-3852 or 765-3785.
Vacation Bible School | Aug. 5-6 A Kids in the Book – New Testament program will be offered Aug. 5-6, 5:458:30 p.m., at Memorial Chapel. Conducted by highly skilled instructors, this free program reveals the “big picture” of God’s story through a fun, kinetic style of learning. All youths who have completed grades K-5 may participate. For details, call (804) 734-6483 or 7340970.
OUTSIDE
THE
GATE
Fire Department Fundraiser | July 20 Prince George County Fire Department Company No. 1 will hold a fundraising event to help with the restoration of the county’s first fire engine – a 1943 Seagrave, July 20, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., at 6500 Courthouse Road. This “Everything Under the Sun Vendor Event” will offer numerous items. Breakfast and lunch will be available to benefit a local Eagle Scout project. For details, call (804) 691-1657.
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20 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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STORE HOURS: M-SAT 10AM-8PM • SUN 12PM-5PM *Payments listed are examples only and are based on zero down payment at 19.99% APR for 24 months with approved credit, taxes and any delivery and installation charges not included. To calculate the total cost of financing simply multiply the payment amount by 48. Other financing rates and terms are available with approved credit and differ depending on the state where purchased. Jewelry is enlarged to show detail and may not always be exactly as shown. Items shown may not represent items in stock. Limited time offer; no substitutions; limited quantities. Offer expires 7/31/2013. See store for details. All products or service names mentioned on ad are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. **Off original prices. Interim markdowns may have been taken. Discount does not apply to watches or diamond solitaire rings. Limited time offer. See store for details. ¥Subject to credit approval. Other terms may apply. Offer not valid on previous purchases or a refinance of or add-on to a current account. Any late payment nullifies the zero interest offer. Minimum payments required. Limited time offer. See store for details.
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 21
Calendar, continued The Really Big Dinosaur Show | July 25 Two free showings of The Really Big Dinosaur Show will be offered on July 25. Sponsored by the Appomattox Regional Library System, the performances will be at 1:30 p.m., at Beacon Theater, 401 N. Main St., Hopewell, and 4:30 p.m., at the historic Dinwiddie Courthouse, adjacent to the Dinwiddie Library, 14101 Boydton Plank Road. Through original songs and the use of more than 20 giant puppets, the era of the dinosaurs will be brought to life on stage. For details, call (804) 458-6320 or visit www.arls.org.
Korean War Ceremony at VWM | July 27 A ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Korean War armistice will be held July 27, 10 a.m., at the Virginia War Memorial, 621 South Belvidere St., Richmond. The event is co-hosted by Chapter 143, Korean War Veterans of America. The ceremony will conclude with the
laying of a wreath in the Memorial’s Shrine of Memory where the names of the 932 Virginians who were killed in action in Korea are engraved upon its walls. For details, call (804) 786-2060 or visit www.vawarmemorial.org.
Estate Sale Fundraiser | July 27 The Havah Woman of Faith will hold an estate sale fundraiser, July 27, 9 a.m. - noon, at the Hopewell Community Center, 100 West City Road. The event will offer hand bags, shoes, bikes, home/décor, art, toys, crystal, books, children’s clothing, small electronics and much more. Gently used couture will be up to 80 percent off. For details, call (804) 932-1053.
Basketball Camp | Aug. 5-9, 12-16 A Chuck Moore Basketball Camp for boys and girls will be held on Aug. 5-9 and Aug. 12-16, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., at Richard Bland College, 11301 Johnson Road, Petersburg. The program is for ages 7-17, and the cost is $100 per session prior to the first day.
A $15 pre-registered discount for military families is available. The program features daily contests, fundamental stations, quality instruction, guest speakers, character building and 3-on-3 games. For registration and details, call (704) 726-7780 or email dpayton@ rbc.edu.
Charity Car Show for Veterans | Aug. 10 The 14th Annual Southern Knights Cruisers Car Show, dedicated to veterans, will be held on Aug. 10, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., at Richard Bland College, 11301 Johnson Road, Petersburg. Admission is free. The rain date is Aug. 11. All monies raised will go to The Virginia Wounded Warrior Program, The Fisher House and McGuire Veterans VA Hospital. This event is expected to attract approximately 300 cars, trucks and bikes. There will be raffles, prizes, awards and a live auction. The first 250 participants will receive an event dash plaque. For details, visit www. southernknightscruisers.com or call (804) 526-8865.
VETERAN | Joe Commander supplied Soldiers with
equipment, food, more during Pacific landings
Chester Child Development and Day Care Center
804-748-4188 AGES 2 - 12 YEARS FULL-DAY PROGRAMS FOR AGES 2 YEARS - JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN HALF-DAY PROGRAMS FOR PRE-SCHOOL & JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN
AGES 5 - 12 YEARS • BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL: CC WELLS, HARROWGATE, CURTIS, ECOFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS • SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS Classroom Video Monitoring • Educational Curriculum • Computers Nationally Accredited • Now Accepting NACCRRA Families 13600 Happy Hill Road in Chester • www.childcareinchesterfield.com
DIVINE FAITH MINISTRY CHURCH Non-Denominational ---- Everyone is Welcome! 2645 COUNTY DRIVE • PETERSBURG, VA 23803 (Less than 5 minutes from Fort Lee on Business Highway 460)
SERVICES SCHEDULE Sunday Worship Service .............11 am Sunday School........................9:30 am Bible Study (Wednesdays) ............7 pm
Rev. Wilbert L. Watson, Pastor and Rev. Estell Watson, Co-Pastor
Children’s Church (Ages 3-12), Youth Ministries, Baby Dedication, and more...
Telephone: 804-943-9398 E-mail: watsonwl@earthlink.net www.divinefaithministrychurch.com
ROCK CHURCH OF PETERSBURG
Continued from page 14 “Also, ice cream,” he said. “Since my dad was in supply, this was his job to secure food for all the troops, but I am sure they had much more spam than lamb,” his son said. His father also could send coolers on ships for the ice cream and other products, said Dick Commander. Commander even ran into a friend from Norfolk while in New Guinea, “Hey Joe,” a Soldier called out to him one day. “My dad was the youngest of 11 children and sent all his money home to my mother,” his son said. Commander had a much older brother who served in World War I. His other five brothers were too old to serve in World War II.
The Third Engineer Special Brigade was activated for its South Pacific mission to eventually invade Japan. However, while in the Philippines the atomic bomb was dropped. Commander did land in Japan in late 1945 – after the Japanese surrender. In Japan, Commander was promoted to sergeant. “So, my dad was able to send a few more dollars home,” his son said. He returned to the U.S. through Portland, Ore., and was discharged from the Army in 1946. Among his prized souvenirs is a metal ashtray topped with a replica of a P-38 aircraft he made from 105 mm and 50 caliber shells. This item deco-
rates his room at the veterans center. While Commander did not attend any reunions after the war, he did go to several of the reenactments in Norfolk of the major landings in Philippines, including the 50th anniversary of the amphibious landing on the island of Leyte. He values a book mark he received from the Leyte anniversary. “What many people don’t realize is that the New Guinea landings were the longest part of the Pacific War,” his son said. “Gen. MacArthur had to gain a strategic foothold on the New Guinea islands first before moving on to the Philippines. Dad is very proud to have served in the war and be a part of the Third Special Brigade during this period.”
2301 County Drive (460 East) • Petersburg, VA 23803 (Less than 1 minute from backgate Mahone Ave.)
804-733-3973 www.RockofVa.com
SUNDAY SERVICE SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
9:30AM ..................... Sunday School 10:30AM ................... Morning Worship Service
7:00PM ................ Bible Study 7:00PM ................ Youth Service at Academy Bldg. 7:00PM ................ Pioneer Club
Rock Church Academy Over 25 Years of Christian and Educational Excellence • K4-8th Grade • ABeka Curriculum • Small Student-Teacher Ratio • Weekly Chapel
• Hot Lunch • Student Uniforms • Before and After School Care • Home Care Groups
• Summer Camp • Computer Lab • Safe & Friendly Atmosphere
www.rockchurchacademy.org Call (804) 733-3973, ext. 2 for information Located at 2301 County Drive, Petersburg, VA 23803
22 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
Classifieds TO PLACE AN AD...
BY PHONE:
BY FAX:
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(804) 526-8692
MILITARY NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA
Call: (804) 526-8656 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(Free Classifieds Only Active Duty, Retired, Spouse) TRAVELLER CLASSIFIEDS 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510
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OVER 3000 ITEMS MR. JAMES JENKINS Cell: 804-898-2534 • jenkinsje@comcast.net (804) 526-0502 1001 Blvd. Colonial Heights, VA 23834 Aimee Bradley Property Manager APARTMENTS
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ASK ABOUT OUR MILITARY SPECIALS! APARTMENTS Colonial Heights On Special $675/month 1500 Concord Ave. 1,000 sqft., 2BR, 1.5BA, walk-in pantry. HOUSES Petersburg $800/month 2572 Pinehurst Dr. 3BR, 1BA, All electric. Move in ready!
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Religious Announcements BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH 3115 Oaklawn Boulevard • Hopewell, Va 23860
“Where Christ Makes the Difference” II Cor. 5:17 Sunday Morning . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 AM Sunday Evening . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 PM Wednesday, Bible Study . . . . . 7:00 PM “Independent & Fundamental”
Pastor Sinclair Rowe • (804) 452-2061
GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH 23814 River Rd. • Petersburg, VA 23803 Phone: (804) 732-6943
Sunday School ............................9:45AM Morning Worship ......................11:00AM Evening Worship .........................2:00PM Wednesday Evening....................7:15PM
Furniture-Household Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!
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For Rent-Rooms Howard Johnson @ I-95 & I-295 (Fort Lee just a few miles)$199 - weekly special. Fully furnished hotel room! Olympic Size Pool, Playground, 24 hour front desk clerk. Rent includes all utilities, free high speed internet and plenty of parking. Call Bobby, 804-895-3857
www.fortleetraveller.com | July 18, 2013 | Traveller | 23
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FREE CLASSIFIED AD Advertising Policy & Deadlines QUALIFICATIONS FOR FREE ADS: • Eligibility: Active duty or retired military, their eligible family members and active or retired civil service employees • Free ads cannot be of a commercial nature (i.e., business opportunities, help wanted, etc.) and must be personal property of the eligible member. They also should not represent a sustained income or business or be sold or listed through agents or representatives. • When advertising a home for rent or home for sale, the home must be THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE. (All rental properties are considered to be paid ads.) • When advertising animals for sale, the ad will only be considered free if there is only one animal being sold. (LITTERS BEING SOLD ARE CONSIDERED PAID ADS) • The classified editor reserves the right to edit or refuse ads based on advertising policies.
HOW TO SUBMIT:
• No more than 5 ads per week, per household. • Free ads will not be accepted via official mailing channels such as guard mail or postage and fees paid indicia. Free ads will be accepted by fax, mail, delivery or Web site. See end of this ad for details. • We cannot accommodate phone inquiries regarding free classified ads. • Renewals, corrections and cancellations cannot be taken by phone and must be resubmitted. • Copy for free classified ads should be typed or printed legibly. • Ads which are illegible, too long or otherwise do not conform to instructions will not be published • Automotive ads must begin with make, model and year (in this order). • Real estate ads must begin with the name of the city, followed by the neighborhood. DEADLINE: 5pmcode___________________________________________________________________ Thursday the week prior to publication. Address and phone number must be included on form. City, state, ZIP Name of Person Placing Ad: Work phone# Home phone# ______________________________ Mailing Address: City, State, ZIP Code: Sponsor Rank/Rate/Grade____________________ Work Phone #: Home Phone #: Command: __________________________________________________________________________ Sponsor: Rank/Rate/Grade: Command: Include home # and/or address within text of ad. Approximately 25 characters (including spaces) per line.
Clip and Fax to: (757) 853-1634 or mail or deliver to:
MNV Classifieds • 150 W. Brambleton Ave. • Norfolk, VA 23510 • Free ad form •
:+$7·6 0< -2%" T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects
ACROSS 4. Similar to an inspector general 8. Military clergyman 10. Also called a longshoreman 12. Mounts dead animals for display 14. A lighting technician in the motion picture industry 16. One who creates a dance performance 17. Guides you to your seat at the movie theater 18. The first president’s other job 19. A uniformed officer who maintains order in a court of law 20. Works with flames, joining metal components DOWN
1. You might have to call this
person if you lose your keys 2. Somewhat of a logistician and often seen in movie credits; someone specializing in the skills needed to move large, heavy objects 3. Somewhat of an occupational protégé 5. He or she often works underground 6. The music director at a party 7. A map maker 9. Man or lady of the night 11. Someone who makes custom-made clothing 13. Works in a lawyer’s office 15. Sometimes called an undertaker
For this week’s answers, visit w w w . ft l e e t r a v e l l e r. c o m / community_life/puzzle/.
24 | Traveller | July 18, 2013 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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