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COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM HITS RIGHT NOTES Band members ready to show their instrumental talents during ‘Music in Our Schools’ outreach program
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SEE PAGE 5
IT STARTS AT THE PLATOON LEVEL Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno said combating sexual assault and harassment starts with NCO engagement SEE PAGE 6
SEE PAGE 4
A NEW VISION The recently installed chief of the installation’s Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation directorate maps out the organization’s course in the near future SEE PAGE 10
2 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
DENTAL HEALTH MONTH | WHAT’S GOING
ON INSIDE
YOUR MOUTH
While cold sodas are refreshing, they may be causing dental harm Dr. Katherine Heggestad-Martin Fort Lee Dental Clinic Command
Ask the question, “Who likes to drink soda?” (a.k.a. soft drinks or pop depending on what part of the country an individual is from), and I’ll be the first to raise my hand. It’s a safe bet that many others in the community would do the same based on the results of a 2012 Gallup poll that revealed 48 percent of Americans between the ages of 6-65 drink at least one 12-ounce serving of soda per day. Nearly a third of U.S. children, ages 3-5, are given soda by their parents as well. With that in mind, here’s some friendly advice to consider. While sipping a soda, the pH level in one’s mouth drops by roughly
two points and a normally “neutral” environment is now poised to dissolve whatever might be in its way, such as teeth. My patients often ask me how their teeth got in such bad shape, and one of the first things I ask them is, “Are you a soda drinker?” If that’s the only thing they’re drinking morning, noon and night, discoloration and dental problems are inevitable. Soft drinks contain two elements that can have devastating effects on teeth. The first is sugar … an average of 12 teaspoons per 16-ounce cola drink. Some brands pack in even higher amounts. Sugar feeds the plaque that forms on teeth. The bacteria converts it into an acid that begins to eat away tooth enamel, eventually leading to a cavity. Second, soft drinks have large amounts
of corrosive ingredients like citric and phosphoric acids. The amounts are even higher in diet sodas. Citric acid is proven to be highly detrimental to tooth enamel. Remember those chemistry lab experiments where a nail would rust and slowly dissolve in an acid solution? Bingo … it only takes a small concentration of citric acid over an extended period of time to ruin an otherwise bright and beautiful smile. I see it fairly regularly among my patients young and old. The solution to the problem is fairly obvious. Cutting out soda altogether, however, is an option few would consider. So, the next best thing is to drink it in moderation. A little is OK; a lot is not. Don’t sip a soda over a long period of time, either. Doing
FINANCIAL MATTERS | IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT PICTURE
Financial guru discusses tips to maintain good credit scores Jason Alderman Visa Financial Education Program
A positive outcome of the 2008 financial crisis was it helped shine a light on the importance of understanding and staying on top of one’s credit profile. Along with that heightened visibility, however, has come a great deal
of confusion and misunderstanding – particularly around the allimportant credit score. “The consequences of not maintaining a sound credit score can be very costly,” noted Anthony Sprauve, senior consumer credit specialist at FICO. “A low score can bar you from getting a new loan, doom you to
Fort Lee
Commanding General ........ Maj. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons Garrison Commander ....................... Col. Paul K. Brooks Public Affairs Officer............................. Stephen J. Baker Command Information/Managing Editor...Patrick Buffett Senior Writer/Special Assignments ......... T. Anthony Bell Production/News Assistant Editor.................. Amy Perry Family/Community Life Reporter .............Trish Muntean Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.
higher interest rates and even cost you a new job or apartment.” Five factors are used to determine credit scores: payment history (usually around 35 percent of the score), amount owed (30 percent), length of credit history (15 percent), newly opened credit accounts (10 percent) and types of credit used (10 percent).
this constantly bathes teeth in acid and subjects them to a continuous attack of sugar and acids. It’s actual best to enjoy a soda with a meal. Using a straw also will reduce the liquid’s contact with teeth. Always brush at least twice daily to remove the filmy layer from teeth. This will give sugar fewer places to stick. Use a fluoride mouthwash once a day, preferably at night. It will help to re-mineralize enamel that has started to break down during the day and can actually help make teeth stronger. Flossing once a day also is very important and extremely helpful in removing plaque between the teeth. For people who drink soda but can’t brush their teeth soon afterward, I recommend chewing gum with Xylitol as the first ingredient. It’s a chemical that helps in the fight against cavities. Finally, and most importantly, see a dentist at least once if not twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. It’s the best way to identify plaque buildup problems that can lead to serious dental problems over time.
Fortunately, if a credit score has taken a hit, individuals can initiate several actions that will begin improving it almost immediately. Just be aware that it can take many years to recover from events like bankruptcy or foreclosure. First, individuals should find out where they currently stand by reviewing reports from each major credit bureau (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). Look for negative actions creditors might have reported as well as errors and fraudulent activity, which can be challenged through the bureau’s dispute resolution
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.
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process. People can order one free report per year from each bureau through the government-authorized site, www. AnnualCreditReport.com. Other agencies and websites charge a fee for such reports. It’s a good idea to request a credit score as well. Lenders use it to supplement their own selection criteria when determining whether an individual is a worthy credit risk. Several types are available, including FICO® Score, VantageScore (a competing model jointly created by
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SEE CREDIT, PAGE 19
COVER A competitor heats up a pan during the Military Hot Food Competition at last year’s Military Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event. This year’s event kicks off March 7 and concludes March 12. See story and photo on Page 4.
File Photo
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 3
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A first-of-its-kind town hall event will take place at Fort Lee on March 11 from 2-3 p.m. Col. Paul K. Brooks, garrison commander, is inviting all community members to “tune inâ€? as he hosts a virtual forum that will be broadcast via Command Channel 14 and streaming video on the Internet. Viewer questions and comments will be accepted throughout the program. “Realizing how busy this community is, and the difficulties of bringing everyone together at a central location for a traditional town hall, the command group decided to try something new,â€? explained Stephen Baker, director of the Garrison Public Affairs Office and one of the main coordinators of the program. “This format will allow Team Lee members to participate from their office locations or their living rooms at home. They could even tune in with their mobile phone ‌ it’s just a smart idea with the ‘on-demand’ society we live in.â€? In addition to Brooks and Baker – who will serve as the host and moderator, respectively – the in-studio program par-
File Photo
Col. Paul K. Brooks, Fort Lee garrison commander, is inviting community members to tune in as he hosts a March 11 town hall session that will be broadcasted via Command Channel 14 and streaming video on the Internet.
ticipants will include Melissa Magowan, deputy to the garrison commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Clarence Richardson, garrison CSM, and representatives from the Directorate of Public Works; Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation; the Directorate of Emergency Services; Child Youth and School Services; and the Health
Promotion Office, among others. While the program will open with brief remarks by the garrison commander, Baker stressed that community input and discussion is the primary emphasis. “It’s important to understand that this is not intended to be a briefing,� he said. “If you’re a member of the Fort Lee community – and that includes our retirees, reservists, spouses of civilian employees and others in the local area – we want to know what’s on your mind. This is your chance to voice questions and concerns directly to garrison leadership.� Referencing important topics like the new installation access procedures, the construction at Sisisky Gate, planned fitness center upgrades, Soldier-4-Life initiatives and implementation of the new community resource guide, Baker said community members should take advantage of the opportunity to voice their questions and concerns in this forum where the subject matter experts are assembled and eager to provide responses. “I also should note that another advantage of this setup is being able to continue the discussion long after the broadcast ends,� Baker noted. “Responses to questions that don’t get answered during the
program will be posted on the Army Fort Lee Facebook page where people can read through them at their convenience.� Only Comcast subscribers residing on Fort Lee or in the immediate neighboring areas of Prince George, Colonial Heights and Petersburg have channel 14 (listed as “government access� in the television guide) as part of their cable channel lineup. Regular programming on that station is provided by the Pentagon Channel. A link to the online broadcast of the town hall will be posted on the installation’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ ArmyFortLee) shortly before the program begins. That is also the place, along with the Fort Lee Garrison Public Affairs office email (ArmyFortLee.pao@mail.mil), where viewers can submit questions and comments any time before, during or immediately after the broadcast. Keep in mind that anyone can see open Facebook posts, so it’s wise to avoid the use of personally identifiable information like names and addresses in that forum. Participants can use the email option or a direct message to the Facebook page for added privacy and security. “The names of contributing community members will not be used on the air,� Baker said. “We may ask for contact information, however, to facilitate follow-up responses to comments or questions as needed.� Anyone with questions about the broadcast or the process to submit questions can call PAO at (804) 734-7451.
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Contributed Photo
Department of the Army Civilian Police Officer Kevin Gareau Jr. uses a battering ram to breach a metal door during emergency response team training Feb. 4 at the Crater Criminal Justice Academy in Petersburg. Eight members of the Fort Lee Provost Marshal Office tactical response team took part in the event to improve their response capabilities during special threat situations. FDM Tactical hosted the training at no cost to the Army. It gave the officers a chance to test new breaching equipment and improve proficiency in various forced entry techniques. The PMO team incorporated lessons learned from the special threat event that occurred at Fort Lee on Aug. 25. Members of the team said they felt the training was extremely valuable. The new breaching tools and rehearsal of techniques will greatly improve their ability to serve the installation community, particularly during crisis situations.
4 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
Patient Safety Awareness Week at Kenner Fort Lee community members are invited to participate in Patient Safety Awareness Week March 9-13, 10 a.m. - noon, in the Kenner Army Health Clinic pharmacy lobby. The week-long awareness and educational campaign for staff and patients will focus on the importance of the relationship between providers and patients and their families. The National Patient Safety Foundation promotes this observance with a theme of “United in Safety.” For details, call (804) 734-9086.
KAHC Cancer Awareness Display Kenner Army Health Clinic will observe National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month with an educational display March 2-6, 10 a.m. - noon, in the pharmacy lobby. Community members are encouraged to wear blue March 6 in observance of National Dress in Blue Day. Participants will receive tips on Colon Cancer Prevention during the week at KAHC. One-in-20 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer and more than 90 percent of all cases can be prevented with recommended screenings. According to the Colon Coalition, people 50 or older can save their lives by getting a screening test for colon cancer. For details, visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/ ColorectalAwareness/index.htm.
Pfc. Elizeveta Meshkalova cooks up a custard while Pfc.Danielle Lipscomb assists during the Student Skills event of the 39th Annual Military Culinary Arts CompetitiveTraining Event held at the Post Field House March 10, 2014. The two were members of the Fort Drum, N.Y., culinary team.
Registration Open for Lee Job Fair
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File Photo
Annual culinary event begins March 7
More than 50 employers are expected to participate in a job fair March 24, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Regimental Club. The free event is sponsored by the Fort Lee Soldier For Life Transition Assistance Program and the Army Community Services Spouses Employment Program. To register and upload resumes, visit civiliansjobs.com. For details, call (687) 819-4153.
Host Families Requested The International Military Student Office at the Army Logistics University is always looking for community members on and off-post to serve as social sponsors for international students who attend classes at Fort Lee. The hosts help the students to learn more about the local community and make them feel welcome as visitors to the U.S. For details, call (804) 765-8159 or email rebecca.a.joyner2.civ@mail.mil.
Sisisky Gate Closure Extended until March 29 T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects
The aromas of dishes like roast duck and misoglazed salmon will again permeate the Post Field House during the 40th Annual Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event scheduled for March 7-12. An installation food service community staple, the training event attracts U.S. military culinarians from around the world
as a means to showcase their talents and skills in a competitive training environment. More than 200 military members competed last year and a large number is expected next month for the event hosted by the Quartermaster School’s Joint Culinary Center of Excellence. The competition also is one of the ways Fort Lee engages itself with the local community, and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Charles Talley, coordinator for
the event, said community members can expect a competition on par with those in the past. “The community should expect to see the ever-popular Military Hot Food Kitchen challenge that includes a five-chef team cooking a three-course meal on a Mobile Kitchen Trailer,” he said of the American Culinary Federationsanctioned event. “There SEE CULINARY PAGE 19
The closure of the Sisisky Gate will be extended to March 29 due to unforeseen construction delays. The gate was scheduled for completion on March 5 and is now scheduled to reopen on March 30. The Lee Avenue Gate will continue serving as the main gate during construction and is open at all times. Additionally, the Shop Road Gate is open weekdays from 4-6 p.m. for outbound traffic only. For details on access to Fort Lee, including gate hours, visit www.lee.army. mil – select “Travel & Arrival Information” under the “Visitors” menu.
Fort Lee Taxi Service The Logistics Readiness Center-Fort Lee reminds all Soldiers, DOD Civilians and government contractors that the free Fort Lee Official Taxi Service is available for on-post business travel. It operates five days a week, except holidays, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. To schedule, call at least 15 minutes prior to the desired pick up time. For transportation needs, call (804) 765-TAXI (8294).
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 5
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Five members of the 392nd Army Band – Staff Sgt. Andrew Spinazzola, Sgt. Jared Miles, Spc. Kevin Ward, Staff Sgt. Billy Carmack and Spc. Andrew Thomas – perform before 250 students in March 2013 at Sunnyside Elementary School in nearby McKenney. It was part of “Music in Our Schools” month. The band will begin the 2015 program at local schools on March 2.
Lee band to perform at many local schools Ray Kozakewicz Production Assistant
Reaching out and connecting with area students is a priority for Fort Lee’s 392nd Army Band. The talented musicians plan to perform at 25 schools in March and April. They will be taking part in the Army’s “Music in Our Schools” initiative that allows students to see music as a career. “It’s an excellent opportunity to get the Army band in its many forms out into the community and into the schools,” said Warrant Officer Kevin L. Pick, commander/bandmaster. “It’s great for the students to come in contact with the Soldiers. While it shows the students the Army has a music program, it serves
as a good recruitment for elementary and middle schools to further develop their music programs as well.” The Fort Lee program is so popular in Central Virginia the bandsmen will perform into mid-April again this year before more than 9,300 students. In 2014, 13 schools and 6,290 students were part of the initiative locally. “We’re fortunate and so glad to be able to send out 4, 5 and 6 groups into the community and hit as many schools as possible in similar areas to meet the requests,” said Pick. Various ensembles will perform at elementary, middle and high schools including the Appomattox Brass Quintet (5 members); Colonial Brass Quintet (5
members); First Class Jazz (7 members); Colonial Winds Quintet (5 members) and Spearhead Brass Band (6 members). Having the different instrument groups in the schools, shows the diversity of the 392nd Band, he said. The patriotic musical programs have an educational component and are tailored to the age of students and needs of the school. Pick said, “We take each school and grade level into consideration. The popular rock we perform is accessible on all levels, not just in high schools. We use movie themes and often funny or silly stuff with the younger kids at the elementary school levels.” SEE BAND, PAGE 16
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6 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
Odierno: Dialogue at platoon level key to preventing sexual assaults David Vergun Army News Service
WASHINGTON – The Army continues to have sexual predators in its formation, said Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno. “Anybody who thinks we don’t have a problem should reassess.” At the same time, the number of sexual assaults in the Army went down during fiscal 2014 compared to 2012, said Army Secretary John M. McHugh, adding that the number of victims reporting assaults is up. That data, McHugh said, shows measurable progress in the service’s efforts to “drive the scourge” of sexual assault and harassment from the ranks. “Without question, in this vital issue, we have momentum. And I believe we have much to be proud of,” McHugh told attendees during the 2015 Sexual Harassment/ Assault Response and Prevention Summit, Feb. 18 in Arlington, where he, Odierno and other senior Army leaders addressed dozens of general military officers, senior enlisted leaders and senior civilians. “But we all must still realize
David Vergun
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno speaks during the 2015 Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Summit in Arlington Feb. 18.
we still have a long way to go,” McHugh said. Odierno advocated for informal discussions between leaders and Soldiers down to the platoon level, rather than just having PowerPoint presentations and a check-theblock approach to education.
A culture of trust needs to be developed, and that has to come from a continuous dialogue between noncommissioned officers and their Soldiers, Odierno said. “If you want to get something done, you need our noncommissioned officers to be fully in-
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volved in solving this problem,” Odierno said. However, it would be a mistake to assume that all sergeants fully understand what behavior is acceptable and what is not, Odierno said, meaning that senior NCOs and officers also have a responsibility to ensure the right climate and training is being implemented. There are no overnight fixes to this problem, Odierno said. It could take a generation of effort to change the culture, but that effort must start now. Other steps need to be taken as well, Odierno said. Consistency of message throughout the Army is important, Odierno emphasized, irrespective of the installation. If SHARP is taught in Basic Combat Training, but Soldiers see it’s not taken seriously at their first permanent duty station, then “we’ve lost them,” Odierno said. Another thing, leaders have to be “ruthless about accountability throughout the chain of command,” Odierno said, adding that improvements are being made in this area. McHugh said senior leadership must remain vigorously engaged
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in battling sexual assault and harassment in all its forms. The positive momentum the service has achieved must be maintained. “In my time as Army secretary, I’ve learned that a loss of momentum is often due to a loss of perspective,” McHugh said. “We can’t and won’t let that happen here. Therefore, keeping this momentum alive is a matter of gaining and regaining our perspective.” Efforts paying off Soldiers are becoming more confident in their chain of command. There are more people coming forward to report assault or harassment but it’s still not where it should be, McHugh and Odierno both cautioned. Lt. Gen. James McConville, the Army’s deputy chief of staff, G-1, who spoke later during the session, backed up the secretary and chief’s remarks about victims being more willing to report. Even as the prevalence of the incidents of unwanted sexual contacts is coming down, reporting is going up, McConville said, adding that over time, he expects to see the reports taper and then trend down along with the prevalence of incidents. That would be a measure of success. Two years ago there were some 26,000 unwanted sexual contacts in the military, McConville said. SEE ODIERNO, PAGE 18
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www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 7
RECOGNIZING CIVILIANS | SPOTLIGHT
&$7+< :,/621 Hometown: Petersburg Family: One son, Tyler. How long have you worked at Fort Lee? 29 years What is your job title? Medical support assistant Thoughts on your working environment? “I have been working in the Radiology Department for almost 28 years. I have seen co-workers, doctors and NCO’s come and go and I have been able to adjust fine to the constant change. It is very hard some days to deal with the public, but each day a patient will always make me laugh, and I guess that is what it is all about.� Challenges of your job: “Juggling the needs of our providers and clinic beneficiaries in addition to making copies of x-rays and answering the phones all at the same time.� Motivation for job: “To make patients smile and to pay my bills.� Favorite vacation spot: “My favorite spot is Seattle. I have family there and we always have such a great time and it is really beautiful.� Pet peeves: “I have way too many. It seems the older I get, the less patience I have. Just old age I guess.�
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Worst fear: “Losing my mind.� Talents: “Making people laugh.� Life lesson to share: “Smile and the world smiles with you and always have faith.� – Compiled by Teresa Wade KAHC Public Affairs Officer
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8 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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Contributed Photo
Six advanced individual training students from Alpha Company, 16th Ordnance Battalion, pose for a photo Feb. 10 after breaking the record for an engine removal on a M1097 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle at Stever Hall on the Ordnance Campus. Privates Daniel Cahill, James Hacker, Aaron Scherker, William Koontz, Robert Mitchell and Oscar Richardson completed the 14 steps of removing and then re-installing the engine in less than 30 minutes, twice in one day, at the Wheel Maintenance Training Department.
In December, the Installation Management Command released a policy memorandum requiring the use of Installation Support Modules wherever possible to improve the efficiency of Soldier out-processing procedures. A deadline date of March 1 was set to implement the changes. Fort Lee is already “well ahead of the game� in this area, according to Margaret Garnes, chief of the Personnel Service Branch. Her organization has been using a piece of ISM software called OUTPROC for several years. “It gives post agencies the ability to preclear service members electronically,� she said, “which is a huge time-saver for the individual and a big benefit to the offices involved because they can reduce the flow of personnel processing traffic in and out of their facility.� The additional efficiencies reduce frustration as well. Under the old paper-checklist system, Soldiers often questioned why they
needed to “clear� agencies they never stepped foot in or with which they never had an account. Completing out-processing at that time also took a lot longer because of all the stops required, which meant a much longer period away from their place of duty. Of course, there are places like the Central Issue Facility that will always require an in-person visit for in- or out-processing. It’s the only way to insure that uniforms and other equipment is issued or returned in the proper manner. The medical clinic is another example. It ensures continuity of ongoing health care and the correct processing of treatment records. “Overall, I really think the biggest advantage for the PSB is the ability to keep better track of the Soldier’s out-processing progress,� Garnes said. “That reduces the chance of errors and ensure the final out appointment will go smoothly.� – From Staff Reports
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Soldiers from the 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command Advise and Assist Team, examine a damaged howitzer during a key leader engagement on Monday. The 310th A&A team is comprised of a small group of Soldiers from the Army Reserve 310th ESC, Indianapolis, Ind., and members of the active Army’s 82nd Sustainment Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C.. It was deployed to advise and assist Iraqi Security Forces in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
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Sustainers combine to assist Iraqis IRAQ – Service members from the U.S. Army Reserves’ 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command based in Indianapolis, combined forces with Soldiers from the 82nd Sustainment Brigade based at Fort Bragg, N.C., to create a specialized lo-
gistics unit to advise and assist Iraqi security forces in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The 310th ESC Forward Advise and Assist Team will train, advise and assist Iraqi security forces in order to build their capabilities with logistics operations
during the next year. “Our task is to take a team of subject matter experts to Iraq to assist the Iraqi security forces in improving their overall logistics operation,” said Col. Michael Midkiff, commander of the A&A team. “I have the utmost confidence with the
Soldiers we are taking.” Soldiers from the 310th ESC were deployed to Fort Hood, Texas, at the end of October to take over operations for the 13th ESC who deployed to Kuwait. A specialized unit was identified from their ranks to join with Soldiers from the 82nd
Sus. Bde. to deploy as logistics advisers. “This mission demonstrates the diversity of current deployments and is a unique opportunity for Soldiers from different components to come together and share skill sets,” said Sgt. Maj. Terence Clay, 82nd Sus. Bde. and the Advise and Assist Team sergeant major. “We will benefit from the skills that Reserve Soldiers bring from both their military and civilian backgrounds. They not only have their military skill set but also bring valuable skills from their
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civilian jobs.” The team is made up of predominantly experienced senior noncommissioned officers and officers, with multiple deployments under their belts. For a few, this is their third to fourth deployment to Iraq. Master Sgt. Cedric Fluker, the operations noncommissioned officer in charge of the team is on his seventh overseas deployment, his third to Iraq and is the oldest member of the unit with more than 30 years of military experience. “Army Reserve units tend to have older, more mature Soldiers,” Fluker said. “The Iraqis look for maturity in their counterparts and automatically have respect for older, experienced Soldiers as part of their culture.” In 2011, members of the 310th ESC were deployed to Iraq to help close down U.S. military bases and turn them over to Iraqi control. Now, they are returning to advise and assist Iraqi security forces on sustaining their troops with their battle against ISIS. – 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command
10 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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Trish Muntean
%XWFKHU EULQJV PLOLWDU\ H[SHULHQFH VHHNV FRPPXQLW\ LQSXW RQ SURJUDPV Trish Muntean Family/Community Life Reporter
When William “Bill” Butcher started his new job as the director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation here in late December, he knew it wasn’t going to be an easy one. Nonetheless, it’s a job he really wanted. “It’s an opportunity to do something I know is in my heart,” he explained. “I have been part of the Army Family since the day after I turned 17 years old (Nov. 21, 1979). Giving back to this institution is a passion I have had for a good part of my life.” Butcher’s 34-year Army career included a tour as the BadenWuerttemberg garrison commander in Heidelberg, Germany. That was the pivotal moment
when he realized providing community support was the thing that made him happy, and it set him on a post-military career path that eventually led to Fort Lee. Now two months into the job here, Butcher has gotten a pretty good lay of the land and is quickly establishing his priorities. Oftentimes, he said it’s a delicate balancing act between the desires of the installation command team, customer demand and profit margins. “The immediate priority is educating the customer base,” he said. “We have to ensure service members and their families, and the other folks who are eligible FMWR patrons, are aware of the programs and resources available to them so they can be used in an effective and efficient manner.
“I think the most important component of FMWR is where it touches the Soldier, civilian and family member in times of vulnerability or crisis,” Butcher continued. “Army Community Service, for example, is a tremendous resource that not only offers help in times of need, but also education and the kinds of things that set a Soldier or family up for future success. It’s a tremendous component of FMWR.” To get the word out about ACS, Butcher is working on an intensified publicity plan with the Garrison Public Affairs Office. The whole idea, he said, is to increase familiarity with the service and the comfort level of asking for information or help when needed. “Maybe community members don’t know that it offers reloca-
tion services like the lending closet or employment assistance like resume workshops. Perhaps our incoming families aren’t aware of the newcomer’s briefings or the many financial wellness classes offered. Well, we’re going to fix that because they are all tremendous benefits that community members should know about,” Butcher said. He’s not overlooking the importance of Fort Lee’s Child, Youth and School Service programs either. Butcher said he believes there is a sufficient customer base here; parents just need to be made aware of the benefits of using the programs and how attendance affects the Army’s future investment into CYSS programs. “Then we have the moralebuilding opportunities we provide to the community through sports and recreation and business operations such as the Lee, Regimental and HideAway clubs,” Butcher said. “Those places allow military personnel and their families, and other members of Team Lee, to gather at a location that they know they can trust. They know those facility managers and employees are committed to them. They are community builders. “FMWR is a very complicated business … it is a multi-faceted business, and it’s a very challenging business if you really want to do it right. All in all, it takes a lot of energy, commitment and effort to make it work. That’s the reason why I chose this as a career path. It’s professionally challenging but personally rewarding in a really huge way.” Also important to Butcher is quality customer care. “Our military personnel and family members deserve the best possible service we can provide,” Butcher said. “The commitment I see every day from the employees who work at FMWR – their service and commitment to Soldiers and their families regardless of where they work – to me is palpable.” To ensure that it continues, FMWR employees at all levels will be participating in
the Installation Management Command’s “Operation Excellence” training program. A few of its components include robust orientations for new employees, making service objectives part of the worker’s performance standards, and emphasis of training to maintain and develop customer service standards. “Good customer service takes a commitment from the community as well,” Butcher said. “Customers need to let us know how we are doing. “For me, the Interactive Customer Evaluation system is a really fantastic tool for gauging our performance and determining where we can do better,” he continued. “One recent example is the multiple ICE comments we received about overcrowding in the fitness centers during peak times. It has led to a discussion about possibly expanding Fort Lee fitness programs to alternate, multi-use facilities so we can accommodate the growing needs of our fitness enthusiasts. “So, that’s a priority for me too; encouraging the community to provide us feedback using ICE and emphasizing the importance of details (including names and dates) so we can better pursue the areas that will improve our customer service and reward those employees who are setting the example by providing good quality customer service to the community.” That’s really the bottom line, Butcher concluded. He wants to set the tone for the program – specifically, FWMR has a good workforce that is committed to the Soldiers and families at Fort Lee – and continue that tradition of commitment while finding new and innovative ways to provide additional services and support to the community. “On behalf of the FMWR directorate, I invite every Team Lee member to take advantage of everything we have to offer,” he said. “We’re setting a path for success and you are part of that equation. We need your patronage and feedback to get where we want to go.”
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12 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
T. Anthony Bell
A F R I C A N - A M E R I C A N
H I S T O R Y
M O N T H
Senior Writer/Special Products
efferson Wiggins was a Soldier in the war but never saw direct combat. Like the majority of African Americans who donned uniforms during World War II, he was on the wrong side of a segregated Army, one that generally relegated them to jobs as laborers or restricted them to that which supported white troops performing the most critical missions. Despite their places behind the scenes, Wiggins and his unit members literally found themselves face-to-face with the horrors of war – not as a result of wielding weapons of destruction – but clutching shovels and tossing dirt at a Netherlands cemetery where they buried thousands of white Americans who had died doing so. For Wiggins, a 19-year-old first sergeant with the 960th Quartermaster Service Company, it was a troubling mission, one that grew in difficulty and complexity and required a burial in its own right – only to be uncovered 65 years later as a way to honor the men responsible for it, said his wife, Janice Wiggins, via a phone interview. “Over time, he realized it was important for him to tell the story because at that time he was the only African-American Soldier of his unit who could be found still living,� she said of her husband’s 2009 revelation. “He knew if he could not tell the story from the perspective of the black Soldier, no one else was alive to do it. He felt it was his responsibility to talk about it.� Dr. Jefferson Wiggins is not here today. He died four years after liberating himself of haunting memories surrounding his unit’s mission to fill the initial burial plots in 1944 at the Netherlands American Cemetery located in the village of Margraten. Details of Wiggins’ life and the mission of the 960th QSC at Margraten can be found in the book, “Return to Margraten� and in the documentary, “The Fields of Margraten,� which marked 65 years of liberation in the Netherlands after the Nazi occupation there. Wiggins was one of the more than 900,000 black men and women who served their country during the war but were mostly assigned to segregated units subjected to substandard training, poor living conditions and menial work. As a member of the segregated 960th, Wiggins didn’t have the benefit of mortuary affairs training like those who currently undergo such instruction at the Quartermaster School here. They were supplied with the hardware and simple instructions that included gravesite dimensions and requirements to dig three gravesites per day, per man. The unit’s mission was performed under the leadership of a white graves registration element, forerunner of today’s mortuary affairs unit, according to ‘Return,’ the book Wiggins co-authored with his wife. Wiggins’ journey to Margraten started with his
J
‘Dignity they so weell deserved’ Former quartermaster found purpose, substance in bringing to light horriďŹ c experiences he buried for roughly 65 years
upbringing in rural Alabama as a member of a poor sharecropper family. He was a child of the Jim Crow South, his family the victim of Ku Klux Klan terrorism campaigns, according to the book. He joined the Army sometime in the early 1940s, attracted by its promises of a better life than the one he left. The Army Wiggins joined was one divided by race, but in the minds of many black Soldiers at the time, this was a mere extension of American society, albeit a more favorable one in some respects. The issue became more problematic when Wiggins’ unit undertook the mission at Margraten. Beginning in the fall of 1944, he and his unit members relentlessly stabbed the frozen earth with their shovels and picks to make graves for an estimated 20,000 U.S. service members – some likely mangled beyond recognition, others likely attired in their blood-soaked uniforms and still others frozen with expressions of shock or fear – without the decencies of caskets and ceremony, according to Wiggins in ‘Return.’ He described the mission as grim and emotionally wrenching. “There were some Soldiers who actually cried
(ABO OVE) Netherlands American Cemetery Superintendent Mike Yasenchak prese ents the American flag to veteran Jefferson Wiggins in 2009 for his role in helpin ng to bury thousands of American service members there during World War II. The flag had been flown over the cemetery in his honor. (FAR LEFT) Wiggins (first row, third from right) poses with unit members prior to their deployment to Europe.(LEFT) Wiggins, center, awaits the beginning of a concert in 2009 along g with his wife, Janice, and Gen. Egon Ramms, commander of the North Atlan ntic Treaty Organization Allied Joint Forces Command Brunssum. Jefferson Wigg gins was honored by the Dutch government for his unit’s role in helping to build a cemetery in Margraten during World War II.
uniforrms – but who did not look like hiim and who were not treated likee him – was troublesome if not burdensome b in light of the difficuult task at hand, said the Photos courtesy of Janice Wiggins formerr Soldier in the book. “Annd here we all were – this when they were digging the graves, particularly group of black Americans having to deal with these when they started to lower the mattress covers (used bodies of white Americans,� he said. “The situation as body bags) into the ground,� he recalled in the brought vivid thoughts to my mind. The stark realbook. “They were just completely traumatized.� ity was we had to bury thhose Soldiers although we The mission of burying those who wore the same couldn’t sit in the same rooom with them when they
were alive. ‘Something is wrong here,’ I thought.� Despite bouts of uncertainty, the painful sense of hopelessness the Soldiers initially felt because of their assigned mission and the sheer amount of bodies that required burial, most unit members were able to find the dignity and reverence in laying to rest those who died for the cause, no matter who they were, said Wiggins. “We had been commanded to give respect to those we could not even associate with in life,� he said during a 2009 speech in the Netherlands. “But on that first day, we realized that whatever life experiences
About Netherlands American Cemetery Ĺš Ä ĹˆĹ‰ÄśÄˇĹ ÄžĹˆÄ˝ÄşÄš ÄžĹƒ ÄśĹƒÄš ÄžĹˆ ʼnĽĺ Ĺ„ĹƒĹ ĹŽ ÄœĹ‚ÄşĹ‡ÄžÄ¸ÄśĹƒ ĸĺłĺʼnĺŇŎ ÄžĹƒ ʼnĽĺ Ä¸Ĺ„ĹŠĹƒĹ‰Ĺ‡ĹŽ Ĺš įĽĺ ʼnĽ ÄŹÄŽÄž ġŊŇĞĺĚ ÄśĹƒ ÄşĹˆĹ‰ÄžĹ‚ÄśĹ‰ÄşÄš łĞŠĞʼnĜŇŎ Ĺ‚ÄşĹ‚ÄˇÄşĹ‡Ĺˆ ʼnĽĺŇĺ Ĺš Ä¨ÄśĹƒĹŽ ĹŒÄşĹ‡Äş ÄšÄžĹˆÄžĹƒĹ‰ÄşĹ‡Ĺ‡ÄşÄš ńŋĺŇ ʼnĽĺ ĹŽÄşÄśĹ‡Ĺˆ ÄśĹƒÄš ġńŊğĽʼn ġĜĸŀ ʼnń ʼnĽĺ ĹˆĹ‰ÄśĹ‰ÄşĹˆ Ĺš įĽĺŇĺ ĜŇĺ Ä¸ĹŠĹ‡Ĺ‡ÄşĹƒĹ‰Ĺ ĹŽ ĹˆÄşĹ‡Ĺ‹ÄžÄ¸Äş Ĺ‚ÄşĹ‚ÄˇÄşĹ‡Ĺˆ ġŊŇĞĺĚ Ĺ„Ĺƒ ʼnĽĺ ÄźĹ‡Ĺ„ĹŠĹƒÄšĹˆ ÄžĹƒÄ¸Ĺ ĹŠÄš ÄžĹƒÄź ÄœÄťĹ‡ÄžÄ¸ÄśĹƒ ÄœĹ‚ÄşĹ‡ÄžÄ¸ÄśĹƒĹˆ ĹŒÄ˝Ĺ„ ĹŒÄşĹ‡Äş ÄžĹƒĹ‰ÄşĹ‡Ĺ‡ÄşÄš ĜĝʼnĺŇ ʼnĽĺ ÄœĹ‡Ĺ‚ĹŽ ÄžĹƒĹ‰ÄşÄźĹ‡ÄśĹ‰ÄşÄš ĹˆĹ„Ĺ‚Äş ĹŠĹƒÄžĹ‰Ĺˆ Ĝʼn ʼnĽĺ ÄşĹƒÄš Ĺ„Äť IJńŇŠĚ IJĜŇ ĤĤ we’d had as African-Americans, this was our obligation – to set aside our prejudices, our colors, and our fears, and give to these young Americans the honor, the respect, and the dignity they so well deserved.â€? Wiggins and his Soldiers completed the mission, but it didn’t mean they were at peace with it. Wiggins later questioned his status as a U.S. citizen and as a black Soldier, especially one commanded to fight for someone else’s freedom when he had no sense of freedom himself. He could not, however, bring himself to contemplate the images of dead Soldiers at Margraten. It was subject he never discussed, said Janice. “Jeff didn’t talk about his experiences voluntarily,â€? she said, noting he, like many WWII Soldiers, may have had some form of post-traumatic stress disorder. “We were married for more than 40 years at the time (of his revelation), and although he spoke freely about his military service – being in Europe during World War II – I never knew anything about Margraten.â€? After the war, Wiggins returned to Alabama only to see – despite having served his country in Europe – the stark reminders of Jim Crow’s throbbing heartbeat and simple American injustice: The sight of German prisoners of war riding in the front of municipal buses while black children rode in the back, according to the book. Despite what he came back to, Wiggins pushed himself onto a lifelong path of learning and human relations, earning several academic degrees, including a Ph.D., and becoming a teacher, community leader, writer and mentor in the Northeast. He settled in New Fairfield, Conn., in the mid-1990s and, along with his wife, captured many accolades as a community advocate. He also was a popular and sought-after speaker. Considering all of his achievements, his kind disposition and his reputation as a bridge-builder, there was very little to suggest her husband harbored a secret, said Janice. In fact, if not for the efforts of enterprising Dutch writer Mieke Kirkels, the story of the 960th may have been forgotten, lost in the annals of the thousands of people, places and events that make up the history of WWII. Kirkels had done much research on Margraten and called Wiggins in 2009, presenting him with an opportunity to tell his story as
part of a larger history project, said Janice. Wiggins’ acceptance of Kirkels proposal meant he would have to recall the trauma he actively sought to repress for the past 65 years. He would have to confront his ghosts, so to speak, and come to grips with a grim history, not as a young Soldier, but as an octogenarian. He eventually warmed to the idea. “Within a year after Mieke first called, we went to the Netherlands in September 2009,� said Janice. “He had been invited by Mieke to speak at the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the southern part of the Netherlands.� The visit to the Netherlands was somewhat of an awakening for them both, said Janice, her trembling voice recalling the warmth and gratitude expressed by the Dutch for what the Americans did for their country. Wiggins, in particular, felt some measure of relief and pride to honor his fellow Soldiers to a greater degree than how they felt following their departure at Margraten, but he had done so at a cost. “We had an amazing trip there, but when we came back to the states, his personality changed,� said Janice. “You could see he was still carrying a burden of memories that couldn’t be buried again.� That burden, said Janice, resulted in him being “less lighthearted and more sober� and more focused on sharing his story – to the detriment of his personal quality of life. “He felt he had an obligation to tell the story and people were interested,� said Janice, “but after about a year, I said to him that he really needed to try to put it aside because – not that it was easy – we had to move forward because in a way he was giving up every day of his current life reliving what had happened at Margraten.� Dr. Jefferson Wiggins died Jan. 9, 2013. Janice Wiggins said her husband, like many who serve in war, made sacrifices for his country, and later in life committed to telling the story of the men of the 960th Quartermaster Service Company, who were not provided the opportunities for recognition like white units or whose achievements did not break barriers like the Tuskegee Airmen, but who nonetheless answered the call of duty the best they knew how. Jefferson Wiggins wanted to give them a voice and a place in history, said his wife. “I know he would have had a great sense of satisfaction knowing that the untold stories of those who came from humble beginnings like his own are finally being given the honor and recognition they earned ... no more but certainly no less than the recognition that was earned by the white soldiers with whom they served,� said Janice. “He would have been pleased that interest in his own story provided a vehicle for telling the stories of so many others who performed their duty and, in doing so, made a statement about their right to claim this country as their own.� More information about Wiggins and the 960th QSC is available in the video, “From Alabama to Margraten,� produced by the American Embassy in the Netherlands. It can be found at https://vimeo. com/112895900.
14 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
(RIGHT) Marshall Jones, deputy commandant of the Quartermaster School, discusses the achievements of several noteworthy black Americans over the past century during his remarks at the African-American/Black History Month observance Wednesday at the Lee Theater. More than 100 community members attended the event. Before concluding his remarks, Jones introduced the ceremony’s guest of honor, retired Col. Porcher Taylor, a veteran of World War II and the Korea and Vietnam conflicts. (FAR RIGHT) Sgt. Timothy Morton and Spc. Carlos Morales from the 392nd Army Band perform post-observance music while guests chat and enjoy food samples provided by a local off-post restaurant. (BELOW LEFT) Capt. Sheri Bowen, an Army Logistics University faculty member, reads a poem titled “Praise Song for the Day” at the observance. (BELOW RIGHT) Second Lt. Steven Jackson, a Quartermaster Basic Officer Leader Course student here, reads a clue about a famous African-American historical figure during an audience participation game called Who Am I? that was part of the event.
(ABOVE) Meesha Brown sings the national anthem during the opening moments of the African-American/Black History Month observance here Wednesday. Other presenters at the event included Capt. Yolanda Wright who provided narration and Becky Joyner who read the AABHM proclamation by President Barack Obama. (RIGHT) Felicita Childs, an adminstrative worker from Bravo Company, 71st Transportation Battalion, and Spc. Renee Brown, an Army Logistics University staff and faculty member, perform an interpritive dance during the observance.
Lift every voice and Sing Photos by Patrick Buffett
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 15
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(ABOVE) Soldiers from Bravo Company, 244th Quartermaster Battalion, pose for a photo in front of the Hopewell Humane Society after a Feb. 7 community service project in which they helped with cleaning and care of the sheltered animals. Company leaders said the Bravo Bulldogs met their goal of lending a helping hand and are happy to give back however they can. Pictured standing are Privates Sean Allen, David Bankhead, Salvador Linares and Brittany Carswell. Kneeling are Privates Lynita Brown, Erica Bugtong, Sierra Dickerson and Darlesha Minnifield. (LEFT) Pvt. Bugtong makes a new friend at the animal care facility.
7URRSV UHFHLYH $VK :HGQHVGD\ EOHVVLQJ Capt. A.J. Gunther, 16th Ordnance Battalion chaplain, recites the words “Repent and believe in the Gospel” as he marks the foreheads of advanced individual training Soldiers during a Feb. 18 Ash Wednesday service in Ball Auditorium on the Ordnance Campus. Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, a time when Christians once fasted for the next 40 days leading up to Easter. Gunther is part of the 59th Ord. Brigade ministry team that hosts the “Reload” chapel service activities each week.
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Convenient, pre-measured laundry pods can be a great, low-mess time saver, but parents are cautioned to keep such products out of their children’s reach because ingesting them could cause serious harm. The shape, size and coloring of the pods are what make them a desirable chew-toy for tots. Remember, kids learn by taste, texture and sound. Something smooth and compact like miniature detergent “pillows,” that also happen to look like a sweet treat, are sure to find a way into a child’s mouth. The sudden release of the pod contents can cause kids to cough and choke, putting them at risk for aspiration (inhaling liquid into the lungs). The liquid also can damage a youngster’s eyes. According to statistics from the National Poison Data System, more than 17,000 emergency calls were made between 2012 and 2013 – about the same time when laundry pods first hit the market – involving ingestion of a detergent product by a child 6 years old or younger. Approximately two thirds of those incidents involved 1-to-2 year olds. Nearly 80 percent of the cases involved ingestion, and 7 percent involved getting the substance in the youngster’s eyes. Some of the symptoms associated with
ingestion of these concentrated detergent products include vomiting, lethargy, drowsiness, coughing and red, itchy eyes. A small percentage of victims have gone into a coma, had seizures and developed a condition called pulmonary edema. There also has been at least one report of cardiac arrest. In the same timeframe previously mentioned, 102 children required tracheal intubation and one 7-month-old boy died after ingesting the contents of a laundry pod. That death has resulted in greater publicity of this potential hazard, which is decreasing the number of incidents Research has shown that the physical side effects of laundry pod content ingestion are worse than traditional liquid detergent. More research has been requested to look into the chemical composition of pods and to evaluate if a different formula could be made. Some companies like Procter and Gamble have made packaging changes in an attempt to child-proof the pod containers. The best preventative measure, however, is greater awareness among parents and other providers of child care. Those with children 4 years of age and younger in their care should consider using traditional laundry products. Others who appreciate the convenience of laundry pods are encouraged to keep the product out of a child’s reach.
BAND | Musicians talk about their
schooling, demonstrate instruments Continued from page 5 He said the band members do a lot more demonstrating of their instruments at the younger elementary and middle school levels. “Between the music, they talk about how long they have been playing, what it took for them to get to this point and some of their schooling. They also demonstrate the unique things of each instrument – some of
the different sounds or special effects they can do with the instrument,” he said. In their school appearances, the band members also play current music the students hear all the time in addition to patriotic music and even some classical. Pick noted, “Any of our groups have a free license to make sure they’re playing what’s on the radio. It could be our rock band, brass group or woodwind group doing
that. We have some really talented composers and arrangers who are able to take music off the radio and arrange it for their specific group with the instruments they have, and have some fun. It’s really neat to use their talents and expand on the music to entertain the students.” Fort Lee launched “Music in Our Schools” in 2011 and the 392nd Army Band has since performed for nearly 24,000 students.
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 17
PA staffers receive 1st-place nods during initial round of KLW Patrick Buffett Managing Editor
Three Keith L. Ware Army Journalism Competition entries recently submitted by the Fort Lee Garrison Public Affairs Office earned first-place nods during the preliminary round of judging at Installation Management Command. The results were announced on Feb. 19. All first- and secondplace entries at IMCOM are forwarded to Army PA for judging at the service-wide level. The announcement of those winners is usually released in late March. There also is a DOD-level competition called the Thomas Jefferson Awards for most writing and broadcast categories. T. Anthony Bell took the top spot in the photojournalism category at IMCOM with his coverage of the annual Run for the Fallen observance in May 2014. The presentation featured thought-provoking images of participants praying and holding photos of fallen warriors, along with a feature story that described the emotions of survivors and veteran Soldiers in attendance. Bell – a 22-year Army veteran and 10-year civil service employee – has won photography
and writing awards at IMCOM and Army level every year since 2009. He was selected as the Army Civilian Journalist of the Year in 2012. He is the senior reporter on the Traveller staff. Family and community life reporter Trish Muntean earned a first-place nod in the news photo category. Her winning image depicts the smiling family of a fallen Soldier participating in the Survivor Outreach Program’s annual butterfly release in May 2014. Muntean joined the Traveller staff in March of last year. She transitioned to the public affairs field in 2009, having previously served as an emergency services worker at Fort Drum, N.Y., and Fort Wainwright, Alaska. This is her third journalism award. In 2014, she earned first place in commentary writing at KLW. Public affairs specialist Susan Garling captured first-place in the community relations – individual achievement category. Her winning project was the July 2014 Make-a-Wish visit by Jack McDonagh, a 13-year-old cancer survivor from Chicago. To fulfill his dream of “becoming an American Soldier,” Garling organized a three-day Army adventure that included a tactical vehicle recovery mission, weapons
(LEFT) The emotion and patriotism of Run for the Fallen is revealed in this May 2014 Traveller presentation by T. Anthony Bell. It was among the winning entries at the first level of the 2014 Army Journalism Competition. (BOTTOM LEFT) Sgt. 1st Class Wesley Townsend, 16th Ordnance Battalion, helps Jack McDonagh read a map during a land navigation class that was part File Photos of a three-day Make-a-Wish visit in July 2015. Public Affairs Specialist Susan Garling organized the community outreach event. (BOTTOM RIGHT) A butterfly lands on the hand of Maj. Marissa Alexander during a May 2014 event for families of fallen warriors. The news photo was captured by Trish Muntean, family and community life reporter.
training, combatives, land navigation, a promotion to 1st lieutenant and many other activities. The event received extensive regional news coverage, which resulted in highly favorable community comments about the Army and its positive values. Garling joined the PA staff in October 2012. She is currently serving as the community relations coordinator for the office in
addition to writing articles for the Traveller and providing extensive administrative support. This is her first KLW award. “The results of this recent round of competition are just one example of how the garrison public affairs team consistently performs above the standard,” said Stephen Baker, office director. “We have now won a total of 22 KLW awards (IMCOM and Army) over
the past five years. I am proud of the creative, high-quality work produced by our team.” The Army journalism competition is named after Maj. Gen. Keith L. Ware, a Medal of Honor recipient who served as the chief of information for the Department of the Army from September 1964 through November 1967. He was killed in a 1968 helicopter crash in Vietnam.
ZHLJKWV DQG PRUH Capt. Jim Akin, a Crossfit level 1 trainer, performs repetitions on free weights in the Total Fitness Room at MacLaughlin Fitness Center Feb. 11. MacLaughlin features separate facilities for weights, cardio and aerobics. The Total Fitness Room is outfitted with a variety of functional fitness equipment to include Olympic weights, kettle bells, battle ropes and medicine balls. Akin is assigned to Alpha Company, 71st Transportation Battalion, Army Logistics University.
T. Anthony Bell
18 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
ODIERNO | Retaliation against victims
is a major problem Continued from page 6 Now, it’s 19,000. McConville credited these recent trends to an effective SHARP training program and an environment more conducive to holding people accountable. Still more work needed McHugh and Odierno pointed out problem areas that need special attention. Retaliation is still a major problem, both leaders said. McHugh said he was convinced that eliminating retaliation against victims is a key to further progress. “I agree with former Secretary of Defense (Chuck) Hagel who said we must tackle this difficult problem head on because, like sexual assault itself, reprisal directly contradicts one of the highest values of our military that we protect our brothers and our sisters in uniform,” McHugh said. And although chain of command or peer retaliation still exists and those are the first types that come to mind, Odierno noted that retaliation also occurs on social media, where bullies can hide behind the screen’s anonymity. It is something that needs to be addressed. “The predators need to become the pariahs, not the victims,” Odierno said. “That’s one of the major challenges we have.” Adapting the right mindset Another problem, Odierno said, is that some Soldiers feel there’s an overreaction to SHARP training and their behavior could be misconstrued. As long as Soldiers are interacting the way they normally do, with respect, they should not feel uncomfortable, Odierno said, admitting that it is a tough subject, particularly since Soldiers come into the Army with a variety of societal norms and values. Lastly, one of the least recognized forms of sexual assault pertains to male victims, Odierno said. Although the percentages are small compared to females, the numbers are pretty high. McConville said 3,200 females reported unwanted sexual contact last year, while 5,300 reports were filed by males. Odierno said he thinks the numbers for males could be even higher because of the stigma of reporting, which is hard for both sexes, but especially for males. “I’m not sure we understand the scope of the problem when it comes to the male side of this.” Lastly, McConville said more focus
John Martinez
Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh speaks during the 2015 Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Summit in Arlington Feb. 18.
needs to be on ensuring retaliation does not occur in any of the ranks, particularly the junior ranks, where the perception of retaliation was reported to be several times that of senior female officers. McHugh said all victims need to be treated with dignity and respect, and “they need to be embraced, not ostracized.” “Two years ago, I said this is our number-one mission,” Odierno concluded. “I still believe that. The fundamental basis for what’s most important in our Army is trust between Soldiers and between their leaders. Also, trust between the Army and the American public. “The one thing that will erode that trust is if they believe we won’t take action,” he added. “We must stay engaged, be vigilant and don’t ever get self-confident when it comes to sexual assault and sexual harassment. “I watched the Army evolve, innovate and adapt through tough times and wrestle with tough issues,” Odierno said. “I believe we can solve this problem.” McHugh quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson who prophetically noted, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” “Let’s keep the good work going. Let’s seize and sustain the momentum,” McHugh said. “Let’s show our Army and the world what lies within us.”
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 19
CULINARY | Teams gear up for
military’s version of TV’s ‘Iron Chef’ Continued from page 4 also is the Student Team Competition, the Team Buffet Table displays, Nutritional Hot Food Challenge, Student Chef of the Year and multiple live cooking and pastry categories.” Members of the public are invited to view the various competitions each day, 9 a.m. – 5p.m., according
to the schedule of events. Admission is free. The Military Hot Food Kitchen, by far the most popular event, allows members of the public to purchase tickets for gourmet meals prepared during competition for roughly $5. Talley said he expects it will again attract large crowds, but there are other events that might be just as
interesting. “I think the public will continue to be drawn toward the MKT event,” said the chief of the JCCoE’s Advanced Food Service Training Division, “but the student Team competition and Team Buffet Tables will continue to draw large crowds as well. This year’s live cooking demonstrations by accomplished ci-
CREDIT | Always pay bills on time,
never exceed credit limits Continued from page 2 Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) and proprietary credit scores from each of the three bureaus, among others. Scores typically cost from $15 to $20 each. Note: offers for free credit scores are usually tied to expensive creditmonitoring services looking for paying clients, and could result in contractual obligations or bothersome telemarketing calls at a minimum.
Always read agreement terms and contracts carefully. The following are some few tips for improving one’s credit history: • Always pay bills on time and catch up on missed payments. • Set up automatic payments for recurring bills and automatic minimum credit card payments if you often miss deadlines. • Sign up for text or email alerts when your bank account balance drops
vilian and military chefs also should be great.” The attractions does not stop there. Ice carving, not included in last year’s competition, makes a return this year. Additionally, the International Challenge makes a comeback. It pits a team of two chefs in an event based on a mystery basket or ingredients unknown to competitors prior to the competition. The United States and three other countries are scheduled to participant. The event will again
reflect efforts to cut costs in the face budget reductions, but Talley said the competitive spirit and the traditions of the event will not be affected. “This year’s event will continue to fully support fiscal responsibility while maintaining the construct of the historic events,” he said. “The teams and the public will enjoy each day as they have in the past.” The Fort Stewart, Ga., culinary team will return to Fort Lee to defend the competition’s
or payments are due. • Never exceed credit card limits. • Monitor the credit utilization ratio (available credit compared to what is being used). Try to keep the cumulative utilization ratio – and the ratios on individual cards or lines of credit – below 30 percent. • Be wary of transferring balances to a new card for a lower rate. It can ding a credit score – although it won’t take long to recover. Make sure the transfer doesn’t increase your utilization ratio on the new card. • Make sure charge card account limits reported to the credit bureaus are accurate.
most coveted award, the Installation of the Year trophy, which is a culmination of team’s participation in several events. Teams from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; Fort Hood, Texas; and Fort Campbell, Ky. also are expected to compete. An awards ceremony is planned for March 13. The time and location has not been determined. For schedules and more information, visit w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / armyculinary.
• Don’t automatically close older, unused accounts; 15 percent of a score is based on credit history. • Each time individuals open a new account it slightly impacts their score, so avoid doing so in the months before a major purchase. • Pay off medical bills, as well as parking, traffic and even library fines. Once old, unpaid bills go into collection, they’ll appear on a credit report. “Bottom line, don’t lose hope,” said Sprauve. “The negative impact of past credit problems will gradually fade as recent good payment behavior begins to show up on your credit reports.”
Interested in the Combined Federal Campaign? Visit http://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign/
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20 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE
EVENTS Kenner Commander’s Call Closure | Feb. 26
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Kenner Army Health Clinic will curtail services Feb. 26, 1-4 p.m., to allow staff to attend a quarterly commander’s call and training session. The clinic will re-open in the late afternoon for pharmacy services. Patients with routine needs should contact the clinic before or after the closure. To reach the on-call provider when the clinic is closed, contact the administrative officer of the day at (804) 734-9000.
3
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FT. LEE TRAVELLER AND TRAVELLER ONLINE FT O Authorized post newspaper and news website for Fort Lee, Virginia.
MILITARY NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW SERVICE MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS ENTERTAINMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The Warrant Officers Association, Crater Chapter, will hold a meeting March 4, 5:30-6:30 p.m., at the WO Hut, building 1000, C Avenue and Sisisky Boulevard. A social begins at 5 p.m. It is open to all active duty and retired warrant officers, national guardsmen and reservists. For details, call (804) 765-4112 or email guy.k.hunter.mil@mail.mil.
Exchange Launches New Customer Feedback Channels | Ongoing The Fort Lee Army and Air Force Exchange is seeking customer feedback through the SurveyMonkey service replacing an older semi-annual survey program. Community members can access the new survey 365 days a year at shopmyexchange.com. Links to the survey also will be posted on the Exchange Facebook page and printed on the bottom of each customer receipt. It will allow the Exchange to identify actions for improving service and performance more quickly. For details, call (804) 861-5970.
Theater Auditions for ‘Cinderella’ | March 2-3
COLONIAL HEIGHTS 804.526.8656 travellernews@verizon.net
The Theater Company at Fort Lee will hold auditions for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,� March 2-3, 7 p.m., at the Lee Theater, building 4300, Mahone Avenue. Director Ann C. Easterling seeks six
FORT LEE COMMUNITY women and five men for lead and featured roles, as well as a singing-dancing ensemble (strong dance skills desired). Those auditioning will sing 16 bars of a Rodgers and Hammerstein song. Bring sheet music in the correct key (accompanist provided) and be dressed for movement. Readings will be from the script. Rehearsals will begin immediately after casting for the May 8-24 production. No performers are paid. For details, call (804) 734-6629.
Homebuyers Workshop | March 4 The Fort Lee Housing Services Office in partnership with the Virginia Housing Development Authority will offer a free homebuyers workshop, March 4, 8:30 a.m. 3 p.m., at the Soldier Support Center, building 3400, room 125, 1401 B Ave. Topics include personal finance, credit issues, qualifying and applying for a loan and more. It is open to active duty and spouses, reservists, national guardsmen, retired military, veterans, DOD Civilians and their spouses. For registration and details, call (804) 765-2016 or 765-3862.
555th PIA Meeting | March. 4 The Jessie J. Mayes Tri-Cities Chapter of the 555th Parachute Infantry Association, Inc., will conduct its monthly meeting March. 4, 6 p.m., at the Piccadilly Restaurant, South Park Mall, Colonial Heights. Prior airborne experience is not a prerequisite for membership or attending. For details, call (804) 861-0945.
‘Healthy Sleep Habits’ Class at AWC | March 12 “Healthy Sleep Habits� is a new class offered the second Thursday of each month, 9 a.m. or 3 p.m., at the Army Wellness Center, 9205 Mahone Ave. The next date is March 12. This interactive class will provide general information and positive action steps to address sleep habits and improve quality of sleep. Participants can complete a sleep self-assessment and learn about resources. For details, call (804) 734-9384 or visit http://kenner.narmc.amedd.army.mil/ Pages/ArmyWellnessCenter.aspx.
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 21
Calendar, continued
Community members can celebrate the shamrock at the St. Patrick’s Day Shindig March 13, 8 p.m. - 2 a.m., at the HideAway. The event will include Irish shenanigans including games, door prizes, manager’s specials and karaoke. For details, call (804) 765-1539.
Spearhead Sham-Rock 5K | March 13 The Transportation Corps Regimental Committee will host the Spearhead ShamRock Fort Lee 5K, March 13, 6:30 a.m., beginning at Williams Stadium. The cost per participant is $15. The registration deadline is March 2 at the TC Regimental Headquarters, 3rd floor/ CASCOM; or in Wylie Hall, building 2300, B Avenue. For details, call (804) 765-7443.
SPORTS & FITNESS
and participants can earn prizes by attending FMWR fitness classes, workshops and more. The walking program is held MondaysThursdays, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., on the post. People can walk with a partner or independently. The mileage should be recorded for a chance to win prizes. Registration forms are available at MacLaughlin Fitness Center for both activities. They are open to active duty, retired military, family members, DOD Civilians and FMWR employees. For details, call (804) 734-6198.
Ravens Pro-Camp for Youth | March 26 CYSS will host a free football pro-camp March 26, 4 p.m., at Williams Stadium. The camp will be led by Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith who will coach, encourage and inspire those in attendance. It is open to children, K-8th grade, of active duty service members, military retirees and DOD Civilians in the Fort Lee community. To register, visit the Parent Central Services office in building 10624, Yorktown Drive. For details, call (804) 734-3852.
FMWR Winner/Walk For Life | Ongoing Family and MWR offers new free fitness and walking programs – Winner/Walk for Life – that include prizes. The fitness program focuses on improving physical bodies, health knowledge and connecting participants with other fitness and health-oriented individuals. It is point-based,
OUTSIDE
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Mom’s Club Meetings Begin | March 2 Mom’s Club, a group of local women who meet and learn about their growing babies, will meet each Monday be-
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Blood Drives in Prince George, Petersburg March 2,6,11 The American Red Cross will conduct local blood drives March 2, 6 and 11. On March 2, 1-7 p.m., the drive is set at New Jerusalem Fellowship Church, 5500 Middle Road, Prince George. On March 6, 1-5 p.m., the blood service will be at Poplar Spring Hospital, 350 Poplar Drive, Petersburg; and on March 11, 12:30-4:30 p.m., it will be at The Train Station, 103 River St., also Petersburg. For details, call (800) 733-2767.
Better or Worse Couples Workshops | March 2-30 “For Better or for Worse,” a course for couples who want to learn how to effectively communicate their needs will be held, March 2-30, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Chesterfield Mental Health Support Services, 6801 Lucy Corr Blvd. The fee is $25 per family for the weekly sessions each Monday. For registration and details, call (804) 7176540.
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River City Band Performance | March 5 The River City Band will perform traditional bluegrass music during an Acoustic Concert Series performance March 5, 7-8 p.m., at the Chesterfield Central Library, 9501 Lori Road. There is no registration required. For details, call (804) 748-1603
OWLS Conference in D.C. | March 5-7 The Officer Women Leadership Symposium has scheduled two days of workshops March 5-7, at the Women In Military Service For America, 1 Memorial Drive, Arlington. The programs include panel discussions titled “Breaking Barriers into the Future” and “Leadership Advice from the Front Lines.” For registration and details, visit: http:// academywomen.org/events/home.php.
Homeschool Month at Berkeley Plantation in March Homeschooled students and their families will receive a special rate during March at Berkeley Plantation in Charles City County. The students can learn about life in the 18th century, tour the plantation and more. The historic site is located off Route 5. For details, call (888) 466-6018.
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ginning March 2, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Chesterfield County Health Department, 9501 Lucy Corr Circle. No registration is required. For details, call (804) 748-1639.
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22 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)
TO PLACE AN AD...
BY PHONE:
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Call: (804) 526-8656 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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“off the hook”
You may not understand everything kids say. But that’s ok. You don’t have to be perfect to be a perfect parent. Because kids in foster care don’t need perfection. They need you. AdoptUsKids.org
www.fortleetraveller.com | February 26, 2015 | Traveller | 23
CROSSWORD | BY SGT. MCGILLICUDDY
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:
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ACROSS 2. Works with string, a flick of the wrist and gravity 4. A lightweight, plastic toy often associated with dogs and beaches 5. Military action figure 6. Also called knucklebones 7. It is metal with helical springs 8. A shooting game that also involves trading the objects 11. An athletic game that only requires willing legs and touching 12. Trademarked, old-school, miniature toy cars (two words) 14. It’s a board game based on economics 15. One of the first video games 16. One of the first soft and cuddly toys (two words)
17. Not a bicycle but it does have two wheels 18. She has red hair and freckles 19. A transformable toy that turned into a popular movie franchise 20. One can jump up and down on it DOWN 1. A refined jump rope game 3. Some people call it paddle ball (two words) 9. They’ve built parks to accommodate these and the people who use them 10. A toy with interlocking capabilities 13. An enhanced water gun (two words) For this week’s answers, visit www.ftleetraveller.com/ community_life/puzzle/.
24 | Traveller | February 26, 2015 | www.fortleetraveller.com
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