Fort Lee Traveller 05.12.16

Spouse of Year winner receives accolades, various prizes at special Lee Club luncheon

Fort Lee

SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FORT LEE, VIRGINIA, SINCE 1941

SEE PAGE 3

May 12, 2016 | Vol. 76, No. 19

DANCES rom f

DIFFERENT LANDS

Post event honors Asian-American, Pacific cultures SEE PAGE 10 INSPECTIONS ENSURE TAXI PASSENGER SAFETY Routine maintenance, on-hand emergency gear and proper licensing among focus areas of post cab checks conducted by Fort Lee, Prince George County police officers

RUN FOR FALLEN Registration is underway for the annual Williams Stadium event that pays tribute to fallen troops and surviving families

SEE PAGE 7

SEE PAGE 4

STRONG BANDS HEALTH EVENTS Campaign encourages community members to get plenty of rest, eat right and exercise SEE PAGE 5

POW STORY Retired Air Force officer shares experiences as prisoner of war during Ordnance School training event SEE PAGE 11

2 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

CHAPLAIN’S CORNER | BUILDING SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

What is your perception of God? Do you picture him as a jolly Santa Claus figure or the wise and witty character played by Morgan Freeman in “Bruce Almighty?” Is he Charlton Heston’s vengeful God in “Ten Commandments?”

Is he the God you knew from church as a young child? Is he the God of your grandparents?

Can you even describe your understanding of God? If you have trouble putting into words who He is, does that make Him irrelevant?

When reading the Bible’s description of the Creator, His relevance becomes clear. The way He is described in scrip-

ture evokes a response from believers.

They recognize His character and personality are shaped by a continuous relationship with His creation – all of us.

Not only is God relevant and real, He can be known and experienced on a personal level. He is accessible to all people from all ethnic backgrounds, genders and ages.

One of the ways God chooses to reveal himself to us is through nature. Here’s a passage from Romans 1:20: “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen; being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

When we look at the heavens and the stars in the sky, the fingerprints of God can be seen. It’s like looking at a painting

A special moment to savor sweetness of military life Lisa Smith Molinari Contributing Writer

“Holy cow we’re old,” I thought as we found our seats at a recent Joint Service Military Ball in Albany, N.Y. The room was filled with over 220 young, eager and sharpdressed ROTC cadets and mid-

shipmen from six colleges in the Capital Region. By some stroke of luck or coincidence, my husband Francis had been asked to be the guest of honor and had enthusiastically accepted.

Back in the ‘80s when he was fresh out of Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Fla., destined for Intelligence

Fort Lee

Commanding General ........Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams 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 .......... Lesley Maceyak Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.

School and his first tour of duty in an EA-6B squadron, Francis never envisioned being a guest of honor at anything, much less making a career out of Navy service.

Twenty-eight years later, he and I sat there feeling proud and sentimental.

We’ve attended many military functions over the years - promotions, retirements, commissionings and balls. There is a particular script followed at each event with minimal variation, so it’s easy to overlook the significance of the rituals or let one’s mind

Ask 10 people about their opinion of God, and you’re likely to get a dozen different responses. Many peoples’ view of God is based on their experiences in life.

Whether they’ve experienced a tragedy or suffered loss, somehow it ends up being God’s fault. However, when the extraordinary or miraculous occurs, do they stop to thank Him? The challenge we are presented with is to understand God from his perspective, not ours. That is hard. It’s a realization we are finite, and He is infinite; he is omniscient and we are like little children; he is omnipotent and we are weak.

If your view of God hasn’t been favorable, I encourage you to listen to His words, not those of skeptics or extremists.

In other words, give God a chance. Defer other people’s opinion and experience God for yourself. As best as you can, process experiences through the lens of the Almighty. As you do, may you experience Him as a loving Creator who is trustworthy and desires a personal relationship with you.

wander during the speeches.

Admittedly, I’m guilty of taking it all for granted; focusing more on who wore what dress, who won the centerpiece or who botched the Electric Slide (usually Francis, by the way). But now, as my husband and I enter the twilight of our time in the military, I’ve become a sentimental old fool.

“Please rise for the presentation of the colors and the singing of the national anthem,” a Cadet at the podium announced.

I’d seen it a million times, but I

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.

was worried about tearing up.

In recent years, even the crackly recording of “Reveille” blaring over the loudspeakers in our base housing neighborhood makes me patriotically pause between sips of coffee to get a little misty, and “Retreat” in the evening instills a certain melancholy pride in our unique lifestyle.

“Deep breaths,” I told myself, knowing it wouldn’t be good to start the ball off with an ugly cry face.

SEE SAVOR, PAGE 15

COVER

16th Ordnance Battalion

THE

Chaplain (Capt.) Dan Moen

ON

Faith can be found in God’s many gifts

and being able to recognize who the artist is by the style and character of the piece.

Everywhere around us, we can see the evidence of the Divine Artist.

God also reveals Himself through the Bible. Worshippers get a glimpse of His relational traits throughout the book of Psalms. “I love the Lord,” wrote the author of Psalms 116: 1-9. “(He) has ears with which He hears and listens to our pleas for mercy,” reads an entry in the early verses, implying God cares and shows empathy.

In verses 5-6, the author lists several important character traits: God is gracious, meaning he is good toward us without our merit, he’s righteous, compassionate, a protector and the provider. And finally, in verse 7 the writer reminds himself that God is good. Those are important characteristics and worth pondering.

Put simply, when God chooses to reveal Himself to us through nature it demonstrates his power, majesty and authority.

The revelations of the Bible demonstrate his character, personality, interpersonal nature and, most importantly, his love.

T. Anthony Bell

Soldiers from the 832nd Ordnance Battalion perform a traditional Vietnamese hat dance during the CASCOM Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration May 6 at the Lee Theater.

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 3

Spouses honored at annual event Lesley Maceyak Family/Community Life Reporter

Michele Maldonado was named Fort Lee’s Heroes at Home Military Spouse of the Year during a luncheon ceremony May 4 at the Lee Club.

Maldonado, the wife of Sgt. 1st Class David Maldonado, 262nd Quartermaster Battalion ,received a seven-day vacation at any Grand Mayan resort – courtesy of USAA and Explore Travel and a $500 Commissary gift card from the Military Newspapers of Virginia, the Fort Lee Traveller’s publisher.

The Heroes at Home event was coordinated by MNV; Army Community Service Volunteer Corps; Allen, Allen, Allen and Allen; and Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian.

Maldonado is a Girl Scout leader and trainer, an Exceptional Family Member Program volunteer, the EFMP 4 x 2 Lego Club facilitator, and a teen social group facilitator. She also is an ACS volunteer and served as a past board member for the Fort Lee Area Spouses’ Club and still assists the group with special

events. In addition, she recently received a President’s Volunteer Service Award (gold level) for two years of community service.

“I am very happy to win this award,” said Maldonado. “There are a lot of people who have done great things here.”

Maldonado gets her inspiration from her two special needs’ children.

“My kids inspire me to do this,” she said. “There are so many programs that are available to larger installations but might not be available at this size installation. My kids needs are not always met … What I do is fill the gap and provide it for them.”

She said her son with autism enjoys structure, so that helps her stay organized and plan her days. This structured environment carries into her volunteer work, her household and even with helping keep her husband organized.

A total of 17 Fort Lee nominees were submitted for the award by active duty personnel from all military branches, spouse support groups, charitable organizations, friends and family.

Lesley Maceyak

Michele Maldonado holds her Spouse of the Year award and poses with Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general; Sgt. 1st Class David Maldonado, 262nd Quartermaster Battalion; Myra Williams, wife of the senior commander; and Maggie Hahn, military affairs relationship director, military advocacy, USAA, on May 4 at the Lee Club.

The other top finalists out of those nominated were Julie Coffman, spouse of Staff Sgt. Doyle Coffman, Echo Company, 832nd Ordnance Battalion; Kim Hodder, spouse of retired Col. Clinton Hodder, director of the Quartermaster Foundation; Maureen Slotnick, spouse of Maj. Brian Slotnick, Army Logistics University; and Stephanie Renteria, spouse of Capt. Mark Renteria, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, CASCOM. “I was very pleased with the number of nominations this

AER campaign winds down; post encourage to donate Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

The Army Emergency Relief fundraising campaign is coming to a close Sunday, but there’s still time to give to the program that provides monetary assistance to Soldiers, retirees and their families.

Community members can go to www. aerhq.org or visit their unit representative to donate. So far, the installation has raised nearly 80 percent of its goal,

by reaching more than $81,500 of the $110,000 target.

Last year, AER provided emergency financial assistance to 743 military ID cardholders at Fort Lee, for a total of $992,865 in loans and grants. Support of that magnitude would not be possible without the caring contributions of community members, said Patsy Piggott, an AER specialist for Fort Lee. In 2015, the Army and AER disbursed more than $71 million in total assistance to

year, especially the quality of the five finalists,” said Susan Loden, Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator, ACS. “This is a great group of military spouses to represent Fort Lee.” Keynote speaker Nancy Gaskins, author and radio talk show host, flew in from Pensacola, Fla., to speak on her experiences and to give advice on what it takes to be a military spouses.

“This type of event is long past due,” she said. “Military spouses don’t get the kudos they deserve.”

nearly 47,000 active and retired Soldiers and families to meet emergency financial and educational assistance needs. Since 1942, AER has provided more than $1.7 billion in assistance to more than 3.7 million Soldiers and families.

AER is a nonprofit entity that is based solely on “Soldiers helping Soldiers” and that’s why the program is so important, said Piggott.

“AER provides a financial means to those Soldiers who are facing a temporary financial hardship,” she said. “All loans are interest free and there are many cases where a grant is given to prevent further hardship. There are so many cases on the installation where AER made a significant difference meeting the needs

Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, commented on the rigourous selections process and the overall quality of the nominees.

“When I listened to all the bios and what our spouses do, I was in absolute awe,” said Williams.

“I am glad I wasn’t on the selection committee, which could only pick one – they were all extraordinary. To know we have that level of volunteerism on our installation and the community, it confirms to me what I already know – we have the best.”

of Soldiers and their families, whether it is for rent, emergency travel or utilities.”

Piggott encouraged all to support the program if they could to help Fort Lee and the Army reach its 2016 goal.

“AER assistance helps to improve the quality of life for thousands of our Soldiers on a daily basis and although thousands of people have contributed to the campaign since our kick-off event, we are still lagging behind,” she said. “Last year’s 2015 campaign contributions were down on the installation and worldwide, and while we have seen an increase during this year’s campaign contributions, we are still short.”

For more information, contact Patsy Piggott at (804) 734-7952.

4 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Kenner Summer Safety Stand-Down | May 12 Kenner Army Health Clinic will curtail services to allow staff to participate in its summer safety stand-down day May 12, 1-4 p.m.

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.

Safety Day Activities | May 24-25

File Photo

Advanced individual training Soldiers carry banners depicting local fallen heroes during the Survivor’s Lap of Fort Lee’s fifth annual Run for the Fallen event last year at Williams Stadium. Thousands of community members showed their support for the nation’s fallen troops and their surviving families by running or walking 1-5 miles.

Run for the fallen set for June 11 Fort Lee’s 6th annual Run for the Fallen is set for June 11, 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., at Williams Stadium. Participation is free and open to the public. Registration is required.

Last year, a record 6,400 participants paid tribute to fallen military members by running and walking more than 19,500 miles. Each year, the total mile figure is reported to the National Run for the Fallen organization.

The event features a 1-mile and 5-mile course.

“We would like each participant to run or walk a mile for a service member who lost his or her life,” said Angela Bellamy, Survivor Outreach Services coordinator, Army Community Service. “Our goal is to educate everyone on the importance of honoring and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country. We also want to let survivors know we honor them for the sacrifice their families have made by losing their loved ones – and we will never forget.

“This also is a time for our survivors to come out and show the banners and photos of their loved ones, and let the participants

see the faces of these heroes and know their names,” she continued. “Furthermore, it’s a time for the runners and walkers to think about those they may have lost or who they are running for.”

The event will feature comments from Col. Paul K. Brooks, garrison commander; a featured speaker; and a survivors’ lap led by the Virginia Patriot Guard.

Bellamy said participants can pick up their race bibs June 7, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., at the Fort Lee Federal Credit Union, 4495 Crossing Blvd., Prince George, and June 8, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., at ACS, building 9023, 1231 Mahone Ave. “We want people to understand they can walk the 1-mile or 5-mile course, and this is not a competitive event,” noted Bellamy.

If anyone would like to provide a photograph of a fallen service member to be placed along the route, it can be dropped off at ACS or emailed to sos@leemwr.com Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. on the day of the event. To pre-register online, visit www. leemwr.com/runforthefallen or call the SOS team at (804) 734-6445 or 734-6446.

– Staff Reports

The Fort Lee Garrison Safety Office will host an award ceremony and the annual Safety Day event May 24-25. The award ceremony is set for 10:30 a.m., May 24 at the Regimental Club, and the Safety Day program is set for May 25, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., near the Main Exchange and Commissary. Both events are open to the Fort Lee community.

The ceremony will recognize employees who are doing outstanding things with safety within garrison directorates. Safety Day will feature displays from various departments including range control, Environment Management Office, emergency management, Alcohol Substance Abuse Program and suicide prevention. There also will be child seat inspections from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

For details, call (804) 765-3132.

Kenner Memorial Weekend Closure Schedule Kenner Army Health Clinic, Troop Medical Clinic 1, Mosier Consolidated Troop Medical Clinic and all ancillary services will be closed May 27 for a training holiday and May 30 in observance of Memorial day.

Bull Dental Clinic and TMC 2 will be open on May 27. To speak with an on-call KAHC medical provider when the clinic is closed, call the administrative office of the day at (804) 734-9000. This must be done before going to an urgent care center.

For an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1.

Transportation Corps Wreath Laying | May 24 Brig. Gen. Michel M. Russell Sr., Chief of Transportation and commandant, U.S. Army Transportation School, will host a Wreath-Laying Ceremony honoring the Transportation Corps’ fallen warriors May 24, 9 a.m., at Regimental Memorial Chapel, Joint Base Langley-Eustis.

Current and former transporters and guests are invited to the event.

For details, visit http://regimentalmemorialchapel.com/memorial-wall/.

Photo Submissions for Salute to Grads The submission deadline for the 2016 Fort Lee Traveller high school graduation special edition is close of business June 3. The product will be published in the June 16 issue of the post newspaper.

Military, government civilians, contractors and military retiree families with Fort Lee ties are asked to submit a photo of graduates with the first and last names of the student and each parent, the parent’s rank (if applicable), the parent’s status (active, retired, civilian, etc.) place of duty, the student’s age and high school, and a telephone number to be used (but not published) if additional information is needed.

The photo submitted should be copyright-free, 5x7, 200-dpi or greater and in jpg format.

Parents who do not have a photo of their graduate can make arrangements with the Public Affairs Office staff to have one taken.

Materials can be submitted via email to ArmyFortLee.pao@mail.mil or online at www.ftleetraveller.com/graduate. The postal mailing address is Fort Lee Public Affairs Office, 3312 A Ave., Fort Lee, VA 23801. For hand-delivery, the PAO is located in garrison headquarters, building 12010, corner of A Avenue and 34th Street.

For questions, call (804) 734-6948 or 734-7147.

/HH VXSSRUWV 6WURQJ % $ 1 ' 6 ÀWQHVV ZHOOQHVV FDPSDLJQ Fort Lee is among 72 U.S. Army Installation Management Command locations worldwide banding together for the 6th annual Strong B.A.N.D.S. campaign. The event recognizes National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.

Strong B.A.N.D.S. – which stands for Strong Balance, Activity, Nutrition, Determination and Strength – promotes garrison fitness and wellness programs available to Soldiers, families, retirees and civilians. This year’s theme is “Trained. Willing. Able,� which highlights how the five campaign components enhance an individual’s readiness.

Launched in 2011, Strong B.A.N.D.S. events and programs encourage all to start or maintain a healthier lifestyle. Last year, over 75,000 individuals were involved in more than 400 fitness

and health activities.

Lee Family and MWR is offering a full schedule of programs and activities to support readiness and resiliency in May and June to showcase the opportunities for fitness here. The following are some of the upcoming events and activities: • May 24 and June 7, 21 – Kayaking on the Appomattox River • May 17-19 – Finesse your fitness regimen with these free Fitness Classes: Body Sculpting, Cardio Core, CrossFit, Iyengar Yoga, Spinning and Zumba • May 21 – Run the Crater 5K and 8-mile Road Races • June 7 - Aug. 26 – Water Skiing classes • June 11 – Run for the Fallen, 1-mile and 5-mile course While the fitness classes listed

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 5

are free on the special tryout days noted, normal fees apply for all other events and activities. “If Soldiers, family members and civilians follow the Performance Triad, then they will improve their overall health, fitness and activity levels,� said Col. Pauline Gross, command surgeon for IMCOM. “Little changes that people incorporate into their diet, sleep and activity ultimately will get them to the point where they are ready, healthier and more active.�

Each participant will receive a black and gold Strong B.A.N.D.S. wristband to symbolize their commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

For more information on Fort Lee activities, call (804) 734-6198 or visit leemwr.com.

Megan ODonoghue

Soldiers proudly show off their Strong B.A.N.D.S. wristbands during the FOX Sports Midwest’s annual “This One’s For You� telecast to the troops in May 2015 at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. The live broadcast from the garrison connected Soldiers with major league baseball exposure as the St. Louis Cardinals team demonstrated their support to the troops. This year, Fort Lee has a full – Staff Reports schedule of Strong B.A.N.D.S. activities.

FOR A WEEKEND, FOR THE SUMMER, FOR A LIFETIME Discover a place unlike anywhere else. Located on North Carolina’s Inner Banks and surrounded by majestic water, is Scotch Hall, a 900 acre playground with 3 miles of bulkhead. Come play for a day and rent a boat or jet ski, stay for a weekend in a beautiful cottage, or stay for a lifetime in a beautiful new waterfront home. Golf, Marina, Dining, Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Recreation. It’s all right here.

SCHEDULE YOUR ESCAPE TODAY, OUR 900 ACRE PLAYGROUND IS CALLING.

95 64 17

64

81

Virginia Beach 85

17

95 85

264

40

877.847.3727

ScotchHallPreserve.com

64

6 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

AMERICA’S MILITARY | SPOTLIGHT

6*7 &$5%(//$ &+((.

Unit: Public Health Command, Fort Bragg (N.C.) District with duty at the Fort Lee Veterinary Clinic MOS: 68R – veterinary food inspector Age: 29 Time in service: four years Hometown: Winston-Salem, N.C. Family: married with children Pastimes: “I’m in school, so I do homework.�

Personal strengths: “I am one determined individual. I won’t let someone tell me I can’t do something, especially if I know in my heart I can. I’m going to fight and stand up for what I believe in.�

Personal weaknesses: “I have a really big heart, so much so, that I tend to want help everyone, but everyone can’t be helped.�

An example of your big heartedness: “I use to have a Soldier

who you could see was a good person, but he wasn’t necessarily a good Soldier. I did everything I could to help him become a good Soldier, but no matter what I did, his personal life always got in the way. Due to no fault of my own, he was kicked out of the military. You can’t help anybody who doesn’t want to be helped.�

One person you admire: “My first NCO from my previous duty station. She was everything I thought an NCO should be. I previously had so many NCOs show me what not to do. As a brand new Soldier, it’s easy to pick up bad habits. When you get somebody who takes you under their wings and genuinely wants you to succeed, you can’t do anything but soak up everything they tell you.�

One lesson you like sharing: “The fact that nothing in life is handed to you. You have to work

for everything. There are so many people, especially in this generation, who believe things should be given to them or they deserve something. You don’t deserve anything unless you worked for it.�

The music you like: “I listen to country, gospel, hip hop – anything that influences my mood.�

One life-changing event: “The moment I joined the military. I got tired of people coming up to me and telling me they had a chance to join. I didn’t just want the chance, I wanted the opportunity to jump in with both feet. For me, it was life-changing because I knew if I did it, I was going to give it my all.

I didn’t want to half-step it, and I intended to get something out of it.�

How you rate yourself as a Soldier: “On a scale from 1-10, I would rate myself a six because I still have room to grow. There’s always a mountain to climb.�

&HUWLILHG 3UH 2ZQHG

6DOHV (YHQW DW 0HUFHGHV %HQ] RI 0LGORWKLDQ

Describe a typical day in food inspection: “I try to schedule because there are 60-odd inspections due each month – some of them are weekly like the dining facilities and the restaurants on post.

We try to space them out. We are out on inspections anywhere from 2-4 hours. We even go out to Charlottesville and Richmond to do inspections.�

What it means to serve your country: “Part of the reason I wanted to join was I lost my uncle in the plane that crashed into the Pentagon during 9-11. He was a school teacher in Washington, D.C., and he always taught me and my brother the importance of edu-

cation and working for what you want. I serve to protect the people I love and their rights to be an American.�

What you’ve done to help your family understand military service: “What I like to do with my kids is watch documentaries, and we talk regularly about what it means to be a Soldier (my husband is really good at educating our kids on all the different aspects of life).

It’s also important to have a plan for what you think they should know because you can’t give them all the answers.�

Best thing about the Army: “The Soldiers.�

Worst thing about the Army: “Sometimes the Soldiers.�

Future plans: “I’m finishing my degree in applied management; I will be done in July. I’m also looking to go to the promotion board for staff sergeant, and I continuously monitor the web for jobs with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.� – Compiled by T. Anthony Bell

,19(67 ,1 <2856(/) with a graduate degree in ... ÂŞ 0DQDJHPHQW

²$FTXLVLWLRQ &RQWUDFW 0DQDJHPHQW ²,QIRUPDWLRQ 6\VWHPV ²/RJLVWLFV 0DQDJHPHQW ²7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 0DQDJHPHQW

A graduate degree can make the difference between you and another highly qualified applicant. I have no doubt my FIT degrees were a deciding factor for my current position.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D;F. Raymond J., MBA & M.S. Managementâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Logistics Management

)LQDQFLQJ DV ORZ DV

$35 IRU XS WR PRQWKV

\HDUV

&RPSOLPHQWDU\ SOXV 3UH 3DLG 0DLQWHQDQFH RQ VHOHFW PRGHOV

&DOO RU YLVLW PEPLGOR FRP FSR WR OHDUQ PRUH 6DOH HQGV 0D\

Enroll Today!

Ă&#x20AC;W HGX IRUWOHH

FIT Fort Lee

_ IRUWOHH#Ă&#x20AC;W HGX Offering classroom-based courses in Virginia since 1973

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Florida Institute of Technology. Florida Institute of Technology is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status, or other non-merit reasons in admissions, scholarship and loan programs, educational programs, athletic or other university sponsored programs or activities, and employment including employment of disabled veterans and veterans of the Vietnam Era, as required by applicable laws. Contact the Title IX Coordinator at 321-674-8700. Florida Institute of Technology is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Florida Institute of Technology is approved by the Maryland State Higher Education Commission and may be additionally approved by Maryland State Approval Authority for payment of veterans education benefits.

OC-884-1115

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 7

302 3*& RIĂ&#x20AC;FHUV FKHFN FDE VDIHW\ Lesley Maceyak Family/Community Life Reporter

Lesley Maceyak

Sgt. Robert Ashcraft, Fort Lee Provost Marshal Office, inspects taxi driver Yidenekachew Haotegebrealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vehicle during the annual Prince George and Fort Lee cab inspections May 4-6 at Sisisky Gate.

The Prince George County Police department and Fort Lee Provost Marshal Office conducted a three day operation May 4-6, to inspect 148 taxi cabs at the Sisisky Gate.

The cab inspection program is an annual requirement for county. All taxis must go through a thorough inspection in order for the drivers to maintain their business licenses.

Fort Lee assists and maintains a relationship with Prince George in conducting inspections because

many of the taxis operate on post. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have an vested interest in this program because we want to make sure we are all on the same page,â&#x20AC;? said Maj. Joe Tull, Provost Marshal, Fort Lee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all need to understand the rules and regulations the cabs must follow.â&#x20AC;?

If the taxi passes inspection, the drivers are awarded their business licenses for the next year. They also will get a permit that goes in the window of the vehicle and a sticker/decal placed at the rear of cab to show they are allowed to operate in Prince George County and on Fort Lee.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The customer should care that these inspections are done because it shows these taxi cabs have been inspected for safety,â&#x20AC;? said Tull. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We ensure there are tires with tread, working lights, specific safety equipment, first aid kits, and fire extinguisher in an on these cabs. These are all crucial safety items. Customers should want to get into a cab that is inspected because it shows the taxi has met a specific standard.â&#x20AC;?

In addition, all taxi drivers are certified with a background check through Prince George County.

Kia is proud to support our troops.

kia.com

ZERO PAYMENTS FOR 5 MONTHS

.1

And $400 bonus available to members of the US Military.2

2016 Optima

2016 Forte

Forte EX.*

Optima SX Limited.*

Colonial Heights

Midlothian

Richmond

Richmond

Colonial Kia (804) 431-3838

Pence Kia (804) 378-3000

Patrick Kia (804) 222-3553

Pearson Kia (804) 965-0200

Must take delivery by 7/5/16. 1Call 800-333-4KIA for details. 0% APR financing for 24-66 months from Kia Motors Finance (KMF) on approved credit. Payment deferral first 90 days; KMF to pay first two payments due up to $1,000 total. No down payment. Offer cannot be combined with lease programs. Offer available on 2016 Optima, Optima Hybrid, Forte, Forte5, and Soul. 2Military Bonus available to active members, honorably discharged from, or retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces or Reserves, or members or reservists on disability, or any of their spouses, on the purchase of a new 2016 Optima, Forte, or Soul. Proper identification must be provided. See retailer for I.D. and incentive details. *Optional features shown. Some features may vary.

8 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general (center), congratulates Col. Ronald J. Ross, outgoing Transportation School assistant commandant and chief of staff, following a retreat/retirement ceremony May 4 at the 1st Logistics Memorial adjacent to CASCOM headquarters.

Contributed Photo

Retreat ceremony honors retirees Jennifer Gunn Chief, CASCOM Public Affairs

As the nation’s flag was lowered during “Retreat” May 4 on post, honors were rendered for six retiring Soldiers who collectively contributed more than 165 years of selfless service to the U.S. Army.

Those honored were:

• Col. Robert L. Hatcher Jr., Combined Arms Support Command chief of staff; • Col. Mark F. Migaleddi, Ordnance School assistant commandant and chief of staff; • Col. Ronald J. Ross, Transportation School assistant commandant and chief of staff; • Chief Warrant Officer 3

Kenneth A. Harrington, CASCOM senior petroleum and water combat developer; • Sgt. Maj. Arlene D. Horne, CASCOM command career counselor; and • Sgt. Maj. Keitha R. Orth, CASCOM senior Army National Guard liaison.

“The retreat ceremony refers to

… when the bugle is used to call Soldiers back to camp for the evening,” said Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, who presided over the event.

Williams explained to those gathered at the 1st Logistics Memorial that the Retreat ceremony is among the most honorable in the U.S. Army. It pays tribute to the flag and signifies the completion of the day’s administrative activities.

Williams, along with Command Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel J. Bartee Sr., CASCOM CSM, presented each Soldier an American flag as is the customary memento for retiring service members.

For the six retirees, the ceremony marked the symbolic relief from their military responsibilities and a job well done.

“This is something I’ve never seen during my 32-year Army career throughout at least ten installations,” said Horne of the Retreat ceremony. Although she will conduct her retirement ceremony May 26, watching the “Retreat”

DOES YOUR TEEN DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE?

Let us serve you.

Thank you for your service to our country. Now, let us help you plan your next step. With high-tech labs, cutting-edge simulators, expert faculty and industry certifications, John Tyler Community College can train you for highpaying, in-demand careers.

Find out how. www.jtcc.edu Sign up now for summer and fall classes.

JOHN TYLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Wednesday, Horne said she became sentimental as she reflected on her military career.

“It was emotional. I felt such a sense of pride in my service to the nation. No matter the sacrifices you have had to make, or those of your family, there are no regrets,” she said.

“This ceremony not only honors the American flag and the principles for which it stands, but it also allows all in attendance to witness – some for the first time – the American Flag being folded, troops in formation and the respect given to our retirees and their families,” Bartee said.

Ceremonies like “Retreat” are time-honored, military traditions dating back to the Revolutionary War, Bartee said, which incite patriotic pride in “Old Glory” and acknowledge the countless years of service of the Soldiers the flag represents.

“Today we call these great Soldiers in from the field,” Williams said. “You have left behind deep footprints for a new generation of Soldiers and civilians to follow.”

The Virginia C Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy is a FREE educational alternative program

We give 16-18 year olds an opportunity to earn their GED, or up to 5-7 credits to apply towards their high school diploma in only 5 1/2 months. Our Edgenuity Credit Recovery Program is approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

• Highly disciplined atmosphere which fosters academics, leadership development, personal growth, and professional development.

• On campus living provides a safe haven for our cadets to learn, be creative and focus on themselves.

• We provide 22 weeks of FREE tuition, books, lodging, meals, and uniforms. Teens and their families do not have to demonstrate financial need.

OUR NEXT CLASS B BEGINS SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016.

CALL TODAY REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 22, 2016 GO TO WWW.VACHALLENGE.ORG CALL 757-491-5932

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 9

D WULEXWH WR 6$$30

Exceptional Leaders Deserve eserve an ble Education Exceptionally Affordable

OHDUQLQJ DERXW ZHOOQHVV

tion Ca

i p We offer a Tu tuition cap of $250 per credit hour for all per credit hour activeduty service members.

Military spouses are eligible for a 10% tuition discount.

$

250 ition Cap Tu

Contributed Photo

About 1,200 students, faculty and family members from the Army Logistics University form a large teal-tinted ribbon in tribute to the Army’s observance of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month April 27. The photo shoot followed a “Color-Me-Teal” walk that morning in the ALU quad. Organizers of the event said the turnout “exceeded their expectations.” They noted it was one of many awareness activities organized by ALU Sexual Awareness Response coordinators for the SAAPM observance, and all were equally successful. Other events included a kickball tournament, a clothesline project in which participants created slogans and drawings on T-shirts, and a disc golf tournament. The teal-colored ribbon has served as the emblem of SAAPM since the observance began in 2007.

The Wisdom Warrior Program makes akes our highquality master’s degree programs ms affordable for the men and women who serve our country in all branches of the military,on base and virtually.

Save up to 100% off the cost of tuition If you choose to use your Military Tuition Assistance in conjunction with our Wisdom Warrior Program. *Capped tuition rate available only for Extended Studies off-site location master’s degree students; excludes doctoral programs and Florida Tech University Online programs.

Contributed Photo

More than 25 employees of the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security pose for a photo after receiving an information session on health and wellness courtesy of CASCOM’s Health Promotion Operations Office recently. The staff learned about a plethora of health concerns including nutrition, diet, exercise and ailments. They also learned about the wealth of programs available here to support their health and wellness needs.

To learn more and download a brochure, visit:

info.fit.edu/ wisdom-warrior

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097; (404) 6794501) to award associate,baccalaureate,master’s,education specialist and doctoral degrees.Florida Institute of Technology is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

Florida Institute of Technology is approved by the Maryland State Higher Education Commission and may be additionally approved by Maryland State Approval Authority for payment of veterans education benefits.Florida Institute of Technology does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, protected veterans status or any other discrimination prohibited by law in the admission of students,administration of its educational policies,scholarship and loan programs,employment policies, and athletic or other university sponsored programs or activities.Florida Tech has a right to discontinue the program at any time.

MK-055-116

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 11

10 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Soldiers of the 832nd Ordnance Battalion perform a Polynesian war cry routine. The group was one of several who performed during the Asian-American Pacific Islander Month observance Friday at the Lee Theater. • Carmia Newton flashes a smile while performing with the Halau Kahealani Polynesian entertainment group. • Filipino dancers – military spouses Marites Walters, Ana Lea Rudolph and Lyne Joyz Bordein – move in unison to traditional music. • Vibha Patil and Anuya Paranjape, an Indian dance duo, use their eyes, arms and smiles to express messages of goodwill.

&HOHEUDWLRQ OF CULTURE Asian American Pacific Islander event full of color, sound, expression

Photos by T. Anthony Bell

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

A

good many people will never be afforded the opportunity to travel among the Pacific Islands or the many exotic locations in Asia.

However, spectators at the Lee Theater were afforded the opportunity as they were figuratively transported to far-off lands during a celebration full of color, sound and exotic imagery at the CASCOM Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Observance.

The annual event, hosted this year by the 59th Ordnance Brigade and supported by the Installation Equal Opportunity Office, serves to further cultural understanding among community members and helps to develop working and living environments inclusive to all. Those in attendance included much of the installation leadership, including Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, and his wife Myra.

AAPIHM focuses on the countries and cultures in Asia as well as the islands included in Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia. This year’s local celebration included performances representing China, Vietnam, India, the islands of Polynesia and the Philippines.

Among the performances, one shedding light on Polynesian culture aroused the audience to another level, demonstrating war ritu-

als and cries meant to intimidate enemies. The face-painted performers – numbering roughly 20 from the 832nd Ordnance Battalion – invaded the stage, scowling, growling and snarling to foot-stomping dance of bravado.

They were joined by another 50 or so of their comrades who quietly sat amongst audience members and eventually leapt from their seats, performing a similar growl and scowl number, startling many of the spectators.

Members of the 832nd Ord. Bn. also per-

formed a Vietnamese hat dance.

Other performances included the Indian dance group, Fly with the Leader; the Halau Kahealani Dance group, which performed traditional Polynesian dances; a Filipino dance and trio; and the Middlteon Kung Fu and Fitness Center, whose members demonstrated a Chinese dragon dance.

Retired Navy Capt. Cynthia Macri, a former doctor of Japanese descent, was the guest speaker. She spoke about the Asian American experience in general and specifically about the internment camps of World War II, the mistreatment of Japanese American citizens and the Japanese American fighters who willingly

joined the war effort to counter what many citizens thought of them.

“The bottom line is that these were Soldiers, American-born of Japanese descent, who wanted to prove their loyalty and who fought to prove their loyalty, not just for themselves but for their families who were still behind these barbed wire fences,” she said.

In addition to the cultural performances, a film was shown detailing the struggles and accomplishments of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a Japanese American unit that fought during WWII, eventually becoming the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in the history of the U.S. military.

Ordnance brigade learns trials, tribulations of Vietnam POWs Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

Senior leaders and NCOs from the 59th Ordnance Brigade attended a leader professional development session featuring Vietnam prisoner of war retired Air Force Lt. Col. Barry Bridger during a session Tuesday at Ball Auditorium on the Ordnance Campus.

Bridger – who was interred Jan. 23, 1967, to March 4, 1973 – was an F-4 Phantom fighter pilot in the 497th Tactical Fighter Squadron when his aircraft was shot down during his first daytime mission with the unit that typically only performed night missions.

During much of the session, Bridger shared stories from the camps but little about his personal experience, preferring to provide an overview of the camp experience and discuss how and why the Americans were faced with such brutality from the North Vietnamese government.

“Words cannot be assembled that capture in full measure the horror of war – the pain, the scars and the sacrifice – and it begs the question why?” asked Bridger. “How have American veterans always been able to endure the crucible of war and return with honor?

“I believe the answer lies in what we Americans value about life and about living,” he continued. “The American Vietnam prisoner of war experience, therefore, is not a story about the plight of American POWs surviving in prison camps in Southeast Asia nearly so much as it is a revelation about the power of traditional American values.”

Love of liberty is the most cherished American value, said Bridger, and these ideals brought America into the Vietnam conflict.

“From the day our feet touched the soil of North Vietnam, the government of that land declared all of us as war criminals and summarily dismissed the benefits of the Geneva Convention that we were entitled to as uniformed armed combatants,” he said. “It was easy for a nation that was a signatory to the 1954 Geneva Convention which prescribed the proper treatment of prisoners of war. They not only dismissed the benefits of American warriors but also did so throughout the duration of the conflict.”

Within the POW timeline in Vietnam, Bridger focused on: 1964-1965 imprisonment; 1965-1967 emotional exploitation; 1967-1970, programmed exploitation; and 1970-1973, live

Amy Perry

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Barry Bridger discusses the trials of American prisoners of war during Vietnam, and the American spirit that helped them through the bruality, during a leader professional development session Tuesday with the 59th Ordnance Brigade.

and let live.

In the early years of the war, Bridger said the North Vietnamese government did not believe America was serious about its involvement in the conflict, and while POWs were imprisoned, they were not tortured, but things rapidly changed.

“In 1965, we entered into a period we described as an emotional exploitation of America’s prisoners of war,” he said. “It was a sudden, immature, emotional outburst on the part of the government of North Vietnam to involve us in their propaganda campaign to discredit the involvement of the United States in that region of the world.

“By that time, (the government) became convinced the United States was serious about their commitment to Southeast Asia,” Bridger continued. “We weren’t going to pack and go home. They reasoned it was high time that the American POWs helped pay the ‘rent.’ They wanted to know our military secrets. They wanted to use us for propaganda.

They wanted us to ‘repent our crimes.’ We called this latter objective, the repentance objective and it consisted of a systematic and continuous process of abuse and torture that lasted for years.”

They kicked off this period of emotional exploitation with the Hanoi march, where many of the POWs were paraded through the city.

“This march was held by the government of North Vietnam an attempt to capture world public opinion to their side. But the march actually signaled the contempt of the North Vietnamese government for international law by illegally marching American prisoners of war through their streets subjecting them to injury and possibly death. It also ominously signaled their intent to use American POWs as a potentially new and powerful tool to develop propaganda to discredit the involvement of the United States in Southeast Asia.”

In later years of the conflict – particularly 1967-1970 – the North Vietnamese began a programmed exploitation of the POWs, where they attempted to reeducate the POWs, break the POWs’ will to resist and find the weak Americans.

“The reeducation consisted of bombarding us with anti-war broadcasts, showering us with anti-war literature, showing anti-war movies and reading anti-war letters from two groups of Americans – Hollywood celebrities and politicians,” he said. “You can appreciate that not all of us were handling the trials and tribulations of POW life precisely the same.

Some of us were walking on the thin line of sanity. The camp authority read these letters over the camp radio systems in an attempt to push those Americans who were having the greatest difficulty coping over the brink, causing them to become unwitting tools of Hanoi’s propaganda machine and in the process, destroying their sense of self esteem.

“For the vast majority of us, this reeducation effort was a joke,” Bridger continued.

“The North Vietnamese camp authority – for two years – put intense effort into it but it fell flat on its face for lack of sophistication.”

Additionally, they removed all of the senior leaders and moved them to a different camp the POWs called Alcatraz.

“They systematically and brutally tortured every leader we had until they wrote a confession,” Bridger said. “One-by-one, they read all of these confessions over the camp radio for everyone elses’ benefit in an attempt to demoralize the junior officers and NCOs. We ignored this. We knew how it went down.”

From 1970-1973, the POWs experienced a period referred to as “live and let live.” In the summer of 1969, the international American Red Cross condemned the government for its mistreatment of American POWs. In the fall of 1969, the leader of North Vietnam Ho Chi

Minh died.

“American Vietnam prisoners of war would agree that the cross we had to bear was Ho,” he said. “He was a vindictive, miserable old man who could not take it out on Uncle Sam, so he took it out on America’s prisoners of war.”

Another major aspect of this time period was a massive letter-writing campaign conducted by tens of millions of Americans and well-wishers that put the North Vietnamese government on notice that civilized society was aware of their inhumanity and they had enough of it. The change was dramatic, said Bridger, but they still didn’t follow the Geneva Convention guidelines, the Red Cross still was not allowed to visit the prisoners and men went blind from lack of vitamins.

After the peace agreement was signed, and the prisoners of war were told of it, Bridger said the North Vietnamese acted like they wanted bygones to be bygones, yet the POWs ignored this, went into their rooms and waited for their freedom. At the time, the camp authority began to recognize the senior leaders.

“The chief interrogator invited Col. Robbie Risner – later a living legend and Air Force brigadier general, now deceased and never forgotten – and he said to Risner ‘you must tell us, what are you going to tell the American people when you go home?’” Bridger said. “Colonel Risner responded ‘well, I’ll tell you what we’re going to do. We’ll do something for you and your government – something you have never done for America’s prisoners of war – we will tell the truth. Nothing more, nothing less. You can count on us to tell the truth.’”

During the question and answer period, Bridger said a question he often encounters is military members asking what they would do under the pressure of the Hanoi Hilton.

“When I get that question, I smile and say ‘it has nothing to do with you,’” he said. “I get a funny look from them and they reply that ‘it must have everything to do with me.’

“No – your conduct has been predetermined by the values you brought to the fight,” he told the audience. “You don’t arrive in great hell and then make up a value system. You have one. It’s what you carry in that is going to determine how you act. If you enter into a period of great tribulation in your life, and it’s you’re inclined to focus on your sorry self, you’re very likely to come out even more self-centered.

But if you enter into a period of great travail focused on ideas that are more meaningful, more lasting, and ultimately more human – ideals like fate, family, friends, service to others and doing those things you cherish that are truly worth remembering – then you’re very likely to come deeper, more profound commitment to those enduring life principles.”

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 11

10 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Soldiers of the 832nd Ordnance Battalion perform a Polynesian war cry routine. The group was one of several who performed during the Asian-American Pacific Islander Month observance Friday at the Lee Theater. • Carmia Newton flashes a smile while performing with the Halau Kahealani Polynesian entertainment group. • Filipino dancers – military spouses Marites Walters, Ana Lea Rudolph and Lyne Joyz Bordein – move in unison to traditional music. • Vibha Patil and Anuya Paranjape, an Indian dance duo, use their eyes, arms and smiles to express messages of goodwill.

&HOHEUDWLRQ OF CULTURE Asian American Pacific Islander event full of color, sound, expression

Photos by T. Anthony Bell

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

A

good many people will never be afforded the opportunity to travel among the Pacific Islands or the many exotic locations in Asia.

However, spectators at the Lee Theater were afforded the opportunity as they were figuratively transported to far-off lands during a celebration full of color, sound and exotic imagery at the CASCOM Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Observance.

The annual event, hosted this year by the 59th Ordnance Brigade and supported by the Installation Equal Opportunity Office, serves to further cultural understanding among community members and helps to develop working and living environments inclusive to all. Those in attendance included much of the installation leadership, including Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, and his wife Myra.

AAPIHM focuses on the countries and cultures in Asia as well as the islands included in Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia. This year’s local celebration included performances representing China, Vietnam, India, the islands of Polynesia and the Philippines.

Among the performances, one shedding light on Polynesian culture aroused the audience to another level, demonstrating war ritu-

als and cries meant to intimidate enemies. The face-painted performers – numbering roughly 20 from the 832nd Ordnance Battalion – invaded the stage, scowling, growling and snarling to foot-stomping dance of bravado.

They were joined by another 50 or so of their comrades who quietly sat amongst audience members and eventually leapt from their seats, performing a similar growl and scowl number, startling many of the spectators.

Members of the 832nd Ord. Bn. also per-

formed a Vietnamese hat dance.

Other performances included the Indian dance group, Fly with the Leader; the Halau Kahealani Dance group, which performed traditional Polynesian dances; a Filipino dance and trio; and the Middlteon Kung Fu and Fitness Center, whose members demonstrated a Chinese dragon dance.

Retired Navy Capt. Cynthia Macri, a former doctor of Japanese descent, was the guest speaker. She spoke about the Asian American experience in general and specifically about the internment camps of World War II, the mistreatment of Japanese American citizens and the Japanese American fighters who willingly

joined the war effort to counter what many citizens thought of them.

“The bottom line is that these were Soldiers, American-born of Japanese descent, who wanted to prove their loyalty and who fought to prove their loyalty, not just for themselves but for their families who were still behind these barbed wire fences,” she said.

In addition to the cultural performances, a film was shown detailing the struggles and accomplishments of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a Japanese American unit that fought during WWII, eventually becoming the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in the history of the U.S. military.

Ordnance brigade learns trials, tribulations of Vietnam POWs Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

Senior leaders and NCOs from the 59th Ordnance Brigade attended a leader professional development session featuring Vietnam prisoner of war retired Air Force Lt. Col. Barry Bridger during a session Tuesday at Ball Auditorium on the Ordnance Campus.

Bridger – who was interred Jan. 23, 1967, to March 4, 1973 – was an F-4 Phantom fighter pilot in the 497th Tactical Fighter Squadron when his aircraft was shot down during his first daytime mission with the unit that typically only performed night missions.

During much of the session, Bridger shared stories from the camps but little about his personal experience, preferring to provide an overview of the camp experience and discuss how and why the Americans were faced with such brutality from the North Vietnamese government.

“Words cannot be assembled that capture in full measure the horror of war – the pain, the scars and the sacrifice – and it begs the question why?” asked Bridger. “How have American veterans always been able to endure the crucible of war and return with honor?

“I believe the answer lies in what we Americans value about life and about living,” he continued. “The American Vietnam prisoner of war experience, therefore, is not a story about the plight of American POWs surviving in prison camps in Southeast Asia nearly so much as it is a revelation about the power of traditional American values.”

Love of liberty is the most cherished American value, said Bridger, and these ideals brought America into the Vietnam conflict.

“From the day our feet touched the soil of North Vietnam, the government of that land declared all of us as war criminals and summarily dismissed the benefits of the Geneva Convention that we were entitled to as uniformed armed combatants,” he said. “It was easy for a nation that was a signatory to the 1954 Geneva Convention which prescribed the proper treatment of prisoners of war. They not only dismissed the benefits of American warriors but also did so throughout the duration of the conflict.”

Within the POW timeline in Vietnam, Bridger focused on: 1964-1965 imprisonment; 1965-1967 emotional exploitation; 1967-1970, programmed exploitation; and 1970-1973, live

Amy Perry

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Barry Bridger discusses the trials of American prisoners of war during Vietnam, and the American spirit that helped them through the bruality, during a leader professional development session Tuesday with the 59th Ordnance Brigade.

and let live.

In the early years of the war, Bridger said the North Vietnamese government did not believe America was serious about its involvement in the conflict, and while POWs were imprisoned, they were not tortured, but things rapidly changed.

“In 1965, we entered into a period we described as an emotional exploitation of America’s prisoners of war,” he said. “It was a sudden, immature, emotional outburst on the part of the government of North Vietnam to involve us in their propaganda campaign to discredit the involvement of the United States in that region of the world.

“By that time, (the government) became convinced the United States was serious about their commitment to Southeast Asia,” Bridger continued. “We weren’t going to pack and go home. They reasoned it was high time that the American POWs helped pay the ‘rent.’ They wanted to know our military secrets. They wanted to use us for propaganda.

They wanted us to ‘repent our crimes.’ We called this latter objective, the repentance objective and it consisted of a systematic and continuous process of abuse and torture that lasted for years.”

They kicked off this period of emotional exploitation with the Hanoi march, where many of the POWs were paraded through the city.

“This march was held by the government of North Vietnam an attempt to capture world public opinion to their side. But the march actually signaled the contempt of the North Vietnamese government for international law by illegally marching American prisoners of war through their streets subjecting them to injury and possibly death. It also ominously signaled their intent to use American POWs as a potentially new and powerful tool to develop propaganda to discredit the involvement of the United States in Southeast Asia.”

In later years of the conflict – particularly 1967-1970 – the North Vietnamese began a programmed exploitation of the POWs, where they attempted to reeducate the POWs, break the POWs’ will to resist and find the weak Americans.

“The reeducation consisted of bombarding us with anti-war broadcasts, showering us with anti-war literature, showing anti-war movies and reading anti-war letters from two groups of Americans – Hollywood celebrities and politicians,” he said. “You can appreciate that not all of us were handling the trials and tribulations of POW life precisely the same.

Some of us were walking on the thin line of sanity. The camp authority read these letters over the camp radio systems in an attempt to push those Americans who were having the greatest difficulty coping over the brink, causing them to become unwitting tools of Hanoi’s propaganda machine and in the process, destroying their sense of self esteem.

“For the vast majority of us, this reeducation effort was a joke,” Bridger continued.

“The North Vietnamese camp authority – for two years – put intense effort into it but it fell flat on its face for lack of sophistication.”

Additionally, they removed all of the senior leaders and moved them to a different camp the POWs called Alcatraz.

“They systematically and brutally tortured every leader we had until they wrote a confession,” Bridger said. “One-by-one, they read all of these confessions over the camp radio for everyone elses’ benefit in an attempt to demoralize the junior officers and NCOs. We ignored this. We knew how it went down.”

From 1970-1973, the POWs experienced a period referred to as “live and let live.” In the summer of 1969, the international American Red Cross condemned the government for its mistreatment of American POWs. In the fall of 1969, the leader of North Vietnam Ho Chi

Minh died.

“American Vietnam prisoners of war would agree that the cross we had to bear was Ho,” he said. “He was a vindictive, miserable old man who could not take it out on Uncle Sam, so he took it out on America’s prisoners of war.”

Another major aspect of this time period was a massive letter-writing campaign conducted by tens of millions of Americans and well-wishers that put the North Vietnamese government on notice that civilized society was aware of their inhumanity and they had enough of it. The change was dramatic, said Bridger, but they still didn’t follow the Geneva Convention guidelines, the Red Cross still was not allowed to visit the prisoners and men went blind from lack of vitamins.

After the peace agreement was signed, and the prisoners of war were told of it, Bridger said the North Vietnamese acted like they wanted bygones to be bygones, yet the POWs ignored this, went into their rooms and waited for their freedom. At the time, the camp authority began to recognize the senior leaders.

“The chief interrogator invited Col. Robbie Risner – later a living legend and Air Force brigadier general, now deceased and never forgotten – and he said to Risner ‘you must tell us, what are you going to tell the American people when you go home?’” Bridger said. “Colonel Risner responded ‘well, I’ll tell you what we’re going to do. We’ll do something for you and your government – something you have never done for America’s prisoners of war – we will tell the truth. Nothing more, nothing less. You can count on us to tell the truth.’”

During the question and answer period, Bridger said a question he often encounters is military members asking what they would do under the pressure of the Hanoi Hilton.

“When I get that question, I smile and say ‘it has nothing to do with you,’” he said. “I get a funny look from them and they reply that ‘it must have everything to do with me.’

“No – your conduct has been predetermined by the values you brought to the fight,” he told the audience. “You don’t arrive in great hell and then make up a value system. You have one. It’s what you carry in that is going to determine how you act. If you enter into a period of great tribulation in your life, and it’s you’re inclined to focus on your sorry self, you’re very likely to come out even more self-centered.

But if you enter into a period of great travail focused on ideas that are more meaningful, more lasting, and ultimately more human – ideals like fate, family, friends, service to others and doing those things you cherish that are truly worth remembering – then you’re very likely to come deeper, more profound commitment to those enduring life principles.”

12 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

The Fort Lee Travellers men’s basketball team capped a near-stellar regular season with a dominating performance in the postseason, earning the Washington Area Military Athletic Conference title in a double-elimination tournament at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall April 30-May 1.

Lee’s installation team, which finished the regular season at 13-1, defeated Fort Meade, Md., and NSA Bethesda, Md., in the first two contests played April 30, then crushed the JBM-HH home team 102-52 and 112-75, respectively, in the final two games played May 1.

It was the first time the men’s installation team has carried home the championship trophy since joining the WAMAC in 2002, but making history was not a primary consideration going into the tournament, said retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Marvin Michael, Travellers’ coach.

“I never thought about it in reference to being the first time,” said the four-year mentor. “We just went and played. Knowing now that we made history, I’m ecstatic.”

If the achievement was historic, the play of Travellers’ shooting guard Julian Simmons was worthy of a museum exhibit. The former West Point player not only led the team in scoring but played shutdown defense most of the tournament.

“Capt. Simmons had one of the best tournaments I’ve seen him play,” said Michael of the player assigned to the Army Logistics University.

At 5-foot-11-inches, Simmons is known as a shooter but dramatically stepped up his defensive moxie, stifling one of the league’s best scorers in the first game after Michael had unsuccessfully used several players to slow him down.

“I thought to myself what better way to control a shooter than with another shooter, and Capt. Simmons did that,” he said. “He shut that player down. That allowed the other guys to do what they normally do.”

Simmons scored 20 points in that game and averaged 20 for the tournament. He had 25 points in the title contest. His play was supported

O F

T H E

H A R D W O O D

Travellers earn postseason title, complete season trifecta Contributed Photo

Photos by T. Anthony Bell

in the final by fellow ALU teammates 1st Lt. Brandon Wheeless’ 22 points and Warrant Officer Terrell Moorer’s 15.

Wheeless also averaged 20 points per game over four contests. The individual performances and team play were indications the practices, preaching and persistence paid off, said Michael.

“The plan came together,” he said. “I had been emphasizing things throughout the season, and they finally got it.”

One of those “things,” said Michael, was the flawless execution of the Griffith play (named for the late former coach and player Sgt. Maj. Charles Griffith) in the playoffs. It was used during the regular season but players lacked confidence in its ability to produce points.

“Throughout the season, they’d get a bucket as a result, but they would go to something else,” he said. “In the tournament, we ran it frequently, and we got points from it. Their eyes opened up; they were like, ‘Oh, it really does work.’ And it didn’t matter who I had in the game because it is a play you really can’t stop.

“It all came together – all the ingredients were mixed in and we came out with the perfect cake.”

Michael, whose resume includes four championships coaching Lee’s women’s teams over the years, said his players surrendered their individualities to the concept of team and swept through the season with harmony and precision.

“I’ve been blessed to have some good male teams, and we would

get to the championship games but could never finish,” he said. “It’s been a matter of getting guys to conform to my way of thinking or how I think the game should be played.

I was blessed this year with having some outstanding players who have taken me from zero to hero.”

Last year, the Travellers also claimed the regular season crown

(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) The Fort Lee Travellers men’s basketball team won the 2016 Washington Area Military Athletic Association postseason tourney played April 30- May 1 at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. The Travellers defeated long-time nemesis JBM-HH by wide margins in the final two games. The team also earned the Capital Classic holiday and regular season crowns. • Coach Marvin Michael, in his fourth year as the men’s coach, stands with trophies representing the regular season, Capital Classic and postseason crowns his team earned this year. The postseason trophy was his first with the men’s team.

Michael already has four women’s postseason titles under his belt. He said his team’s success was made possible through the support of Family MWR and retired Soldier Calvin Chambliss.

• Fort Lee Travellers’ guard Julian Simmons makes a move to the basket during a regular season game.

Simmons led the team in postseason scoring and played shut-down defense, said Michael.

but lost the postseason title game to JBM-HH. This year, the Travellers laid claim to a WAMAC trifecta – earning titles for the regular season, Capital Classic holiday tournament and postseason tournament. The latter earned it the right to host next year’s postseason tournament.

Swimmers wanted The CISM Military World Championships for swimming are scheduled for Aug. 8-15. Those active duty swimmers interested must meet a list of standards prior to consideration. For more info, call (210) 466-1334 or email brigitta.m.starmand.naf@mail.mil.

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 13

KENNER CONNECTION | TRICARE UPDATES

Pilot allows two urgent care visits without referral The Department of Defense will implement a new urgent care pilot program May 23 that will include Kenner Army Health Clinic beneficiaries.

Essentially, the pilot will allow two appropriate urgent care visits, without referrals, per fiscal year (Oct. 1 - Sept. 31), per individual.

Beneficiaries included are TRICARE Prime active duty family members, TRICARE young adult enrollees, and TRICARE Prime retirees and retiree family members.

TRICARE Prime active duty service members are not eligible for urgent care under this pilot program.

Beneficiaries who are eligible under this Urgent Care

Pilot Program will be able to go to a network urgent care facility twice a fiscal year without a referral from their primary care manager. However, it is the patient’s responsibility to ensure they do not go over their two-visit limit or they will incur point of service charges.

In addition, if the patient utilizes a non-network urgent care facility, POS charges will apply. Beneficiaries are to contact TRICARE at 1-877-TRICARE before utilizing urgent care to ensure the facility is in the network.

Beneficiaries enrolled to KAHC still have the ability to contact the Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-874-2273 (press op-

tion one). They also may use the KAHC on-call provider program by contacting the administrative officer of the day at (804) 734-9000. These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

After utilizing urgent care with or without a referral, enrollees are encouraged to notify their PCM and/or team nurse within 24 hours after their urgent care visit to schedule follow-up care, if needed.

For questions regarding the new pilot program, contact the KAHC Health Benefits Advisors Joyce Harris or Belinda Perkins at (804) 7349447 or 734-9448.

– Kenner Army Health Clinic

JHQHUDO·V YLVLW

Jerry Silva

Brig. Gen. Ronald J. Place, commanding general of the Regional Health Command-Atlantic (Provisional), discusses operational initiatives that are shaping the current and future medical community during a town hall-style briefing that was part of his Kenner Army Health Clinic tour May 4. The commanding general also presented command coins to several civilians and Soldiers for their hard work and dedication to the mission. Place became the 13th commander of RHC-Atlantic in December.

Find Success at Top-Ranked Regent As a military servicemember, you’ve gained invaluable experience and on-the-job training. Now it’s time to earn your degree so you’re ready to advance your career.

Regent University offers academic challenge, a dedicated team of military advisors, and a values-based approach to learning. Whether you’re newly enlisted, preparing for Officer Candidate School, or transitioning to civilian life, we’ll prepare you for a lifetime of leadership and personal growth. With Regent’s military-friendly benefits, tuition discounts, frequent course starts and online degree options, it’s your time to succeed.

Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s | Doctoral ON CAMPUS & ONLINE

APPLY TODAY. success.regent.edu | 888.638.3573 Christian Leadership to Change the World

14 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

FRPPXQLW\ VXSSRUW

UXQQLQJ WR UHPHPEHU

Unit leaders and students from Bravo Company, 244th Quartermaster Battalion, pose with a few boxes of items collected during a non-perishable food drive in support of the James House, an off-post facility that helps spouses and families affected by sexual and domestic violence. The project was one of many activities on the installation that recognized April’s Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month campaign. The 244th and its supporters collected more than 350 cans of food in support of the Prince George-based facility.

Suzanne Feigley

Capt. Jeffery Hill, commander of Bravo Company, 16th Ordnance Battalion, leads his troops across the finish line while participating in the Virginia War Memorial’s 5th Annual Memorial/Priority 5K Run-Walk to Remember on April 23 in downtown Richmond. An estimated 350 military personnel from Fort Lee participated in the event along with well over 300 civilian community members. The Quartermaster, Ordnance and Transportation Schools were all represented at the event.

Contributed Photo

Kanpai JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

WE NOW HAVE LUXURY CONDO APARTMENTS starting at $750/month.

Fully Furnished with ALL Utilities Included, as well as 62 Hotel Suites.

WE BUY & SELL

HOURS: Monday – Thursday • 12noon – 11pm Friday & Saturday • 12noon – 12am Sunday • 12noon – 8pm

Family Owned and Operated for over 28 Years!

KARAOKE:

We would love to host your celebration or birthday!

CALL US FOR RESERVATIONS

Monday 8-11pm & Friday 8pm-12am

LUNCH MENU SERVED: Monday – Saturday 11:30am-2pm

DINNER MENU SERVED: Monday – Thursday 4:00pm-10pm Friday – Saturday • 2pm-11pm Sunday • 12pm-9:30pm

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT: Wednesdays starting at 8pm

804-541-8853 I WWW.KANPAIHOPEWELL.COM

Military Surplus FREE CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE

Get the Real Stuff. Go HSO!

Since 1942, Hull Street Outlet had been Central Virginia’s largest headquarters for Military Surplus, Camo Gear, • Combat Fatigues • Boats Clothing and More... Go HSO. • Field Jackets • Compasses • Flak Jackets • Tents • Canteens • Mess Kits • Knives • Parachutes • Ammo Belts • Parkas • Flight Jackets • Foot Lockers • Machetes • Medals • Survival Gear • K Rations 3820 Jefferson Davis Hwy. • Gas Masks • Boots We have it, more of it, it’s (Located in Richmond, • Backpacks • Netting authentic, and it’s priced right!

• Hammocks • Much More!

20 min drive from Ft. Lee)

www.HullStreetOutlet.com • 804-275-9239 or 800-354-2422 N E W A N D USE D O FFI C E F U R N I T U R E

Josh is living proof that she is.

Michael P. Kavanagh

F O AM R UBB ER

C AMP IN G S UPPL I ES

• TDY Welcome • Extended Stay Discount • Military Discount Every Day • Hot Breakfast Included with Room Stay • Free Laundry and Fitness • Center Outdoor Pool • Meeting & Banquet Rooms Available

Natassia gives blood to feel like she’s making a difference.

5303 Oaklawn Blvd. I Hopewell, Va. 23860

5380 Oaklawn Blvd., Prince George, VA 23875

452-0022

& SUSHI BAR

Attorney At Law, Licensed in Virginia • Former Investigating Officer • Retired Judge Advocate • Former Claims Division Chief • Former Prosecutor • Former Sr. Defense Counsel • Former Legal Asst. Attorney CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

MILITARY PRACTICE • Courts-Martial Defense • Reprimand Rebuttals • Admin. Separation Boards • QMP Board File Representation • Discharge Upgrades

CIVILIAN PRACTICE • Criminal Defense • Divorce • Separation Agreements • Custody Disputes • Personal Injury • Injury/Damage Claims Against the Gov’t

Donate blood today and change a life, starting with your own.

Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit givelife.org.

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 15

SUHVWLJLRXV FOXE LQGXFWLRQ Staff Sgt. Melissa Gauthier, an advanced individual training platoon sergeant for Echo Company, 16th Ordnance Battalion, poses with Command Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel Bartee, CASCOM CSM, after she was inducted into the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club May 10 here. To receive the SAMC Award, Soldiers must be nominated by a senior member of the chain of command and pass a series of board evaluations. Gauthier described the accomplishment as “the highest honor” she has experienced in uniform to date.

She also said she looks forward to the additional leadership and community service roles and responsibilities that come with being a member of the prestigious club.

SAVOR | Navy spouse encourages all

to enjoy military lifestyle, offerings Continued from page 2

Contributed Photo

The color guard marched in precise lock step, placing the flags behind the podium.

Four uniformed singers kept perfect harmony as the entire crowd crooned, “For the land of the free! And the home of the brave!”

We raised glasses high in a litany of customary toasts to the flag, the president, the joint chiefs, the cadets, and the midshipmen. The final toast to the prisoners of war and missing in action did me in, and I swept an escaped tear off my cheek as the MC drew our attention to each traditional item – a rose, lemon slice, salt, candle – on the tiny symbolic memorial table near the podium.

“Salmon or chicken, ma’am?” the bow-tied wait-

er asked before plopping a steaming plate on the table in front of me. I ate enough to test the bounds of my Spanx before settling in with a cup of coffee to watch Francis’ speech.

Adjusting his cummerbund, Francis spoke to the assembly of bright young men and women about viewing themselves as part of a joint military profession that is both ethical and competent. As military service persons, he emphasized, they do not just hold a job, “we live a lifestyle and carry on military traditions reaching back for centuries.”

Before leaving the podium, he looked up and softly spoke these words, “As I approach the sunset of my career, at times I wonder if I’ve made the right decisions in

LUNCH BUFFET $9.50

Can’t find the right house in the right place to call home?

MONDAY – FRIDAY • 11:00AM – 2:30PM

WE DELIVER!

DON’T COMPROMISE,

10% MILITARY DISCOUNT

LET’S BUILD! • From Contract to Closing in 90-120 Days • Ranch, First Floor Master and 2 Story Floor Plans • Build in one of our neighborhoods, or anywhere a lot is for sale • Priced competitively with previously owned homes

Monday-Friday on Buffet Only

(804) 458-2885

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Mon-Thurs: 11am-9:30pm Fri & Sat: 11am-10pm Sun: 11am-9:30pm

Up to 48 Mos, 0% Interest (with qualified purchases)

THE CROSSINGS CENTER • 5230 Oaklawn Blvd. • Hopewell, VA

ZOOM LUNCH MENU SERVED Monday - Friday 11am - 3pm DINNER MENU SERVED Monday - Thursday 4:30pm - 10pm Friday 4:30pm - 10:30pm Saturday 12 noon - 10:30pm Sunday 12 noon - 10pm

4217 Crossings Blvd., Prince George, VA

458-8868 or 458-8858

We have a full Sushi Bar!

ONLY 2 MINUTES FROM FORT LEE!

ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI (Made Fresh) Monday - Friday: 11am - 2pm Monday - Friday: 4:30pm - 9pm Saturday & Sunday: All Day 12noon - 9pm

WE DO HIBACHI!

LUNCH BUFFET $13.95 DINNER BUFFET $18.95

24/7 Info Line 804-748-7575 FinerHomesInc.net Visit furnished models in Willow Creek 15200 Willow Hill Lane

WE PROUDLY OFFER A MILITARY DISCOUNT

A

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR WWW.HOKKAIDOSTEAKHOUSE.COM WE DELIVER! MINIMUM $15.00 ORDER

life and have provided for my family as best I could, recognizing the hardships and sacrifices they’ve had to endure from time to time. But … when I remap my time back to May 22, 1988, when I raised my right hand in the recruiter’s office, I realize I wouldn’t change a single day of it. I am truly envious of you all who are just starting your journey …You have so much to look forward to.”

After his first standing ovation, Francis took his seat, stunned, humbled and grateful. I sat at his side, gushing with pride.

The MC took the podium one last time to announce the last of a military dining-in’s time-honored traditions: “We ask that you do not take the centerpieces,” he said. “The dance floor is now open.”

ENROLL NOW!

Computers I Secure, Loving Environment I State Licensed Large Playground I Nationally Accredited I Video Monitoring I Gymnasium ✦ Half-Day Programs for Pre-School ✦ Full-Day Programs for 8 Weeks - Pre-School ✦ Before/After School Programs Serving

LUBE PLUS

Car Wash Family owned and operated since 1996!

Check and top-off: Transmission fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, window washer fluid, lubricate chassis, check tires, inspect wiper blades.

Enon, Marguarite Christian, Elizabeth Scott Elementary Schools & Elizabeth Davis Middle School

530-5600 / 530-1256 12201 KINGSTON AVE • In River’s Bend (Youth Center) 120 WEST HUNDRED ROAD (Pre-School Center) RIVERSBEND.CHILDCAREINCHESTERFIELD.COM

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 3 EAST HUNDRED ROAD CHESTER, VA 23836

3006 S CRATER ROAD PETERSBURG, VA 23805

(804) 530-5555

(804) 431-2050

16 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Dr. Patricia L. Testamark, Optometrist Y Eye Exams Y Contact Lens Exams Y Optical on Premises TRICARE PRIME & MOST OTHER INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED 44 Medical Park Blvd., Suite H • Petersburg, VA 23805 Located Next to SRMC

804-898-3373

DID DAD TAKE HIS MEDICATION TODAY?

This might be the question that keeps you from

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE

EVENTS Troops to Teachers Brief | May 13 A Troops to Teachers briefing is scheduled for May 13, 10 a.m., at the Army Education Center, 700 Quarters Road, building 12400.

The free program provides information and referral services to participants interested in a second career in public education. Some graduates may be eligible for a $10,000 bonus when filling positions at certain schools.

For details, call (804) 765-3570.

Life at Lee Event | May 14 All families living on post and the organizations dedicated to their support are invited to the 8th annual “Life at Lee” celebration at the Fort Lee Family Housing Sisisky Welcome Center May 14, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., at 1510 Sisisky Blvd.

The event will include food, music, games, prize giveaways, information booths, children’s activities and more. Admission is free for residents and their families.

For details, call (804) 733-1558

falling asleep at the end of a long day.

Our team includes an RN, licensed nurses, and an attending physician that our families know by name.

From medication management to meals and activities, you can trust our experienced caregivers to meet all of Dad’s needs and help keep worries at bay – day and night.

Call us at 804-520-0050 to schedule a visit and ask about our Reflections Memory Care Program.

‘Once Upon a Mattress’ | May 13-22 The Fort Lee theater company’s production of “Once Upon a Mattress” continues May 13, 8 p.m., at the Lee Theater. Additional shows are scheduled for May 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m., and May 15 and 22 at 3 p.m. All performances are open to the public.

For reservations and more information, contact the box office at (804) 734-6629.

Ability One Day Expo at Regimental Club | May 19 AbilityOne, the nation’s largest provider of jobs for people who are blind or have significant disabilities, will hold an awareness event May 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Regimental Club.

FORT LEE COMMUNITY

Participants will learn more about the program’s presence on the installation.

For details, call (804) 862-6232.

Lee Theater Group Auditions | May 24, 26 The Theater Company at Fort Lee will hold auditions for “A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline,” May 24 and 26, 7 p.m., at the Lee Theater, building 4300, Mahone Avenue.

Director Frank Foster seeks one man (early to mid-30s) to fill multiple roles of Little Big man, a radio DJ and a narrator, and four men (ages 25-35) for the role of a gospel quartet. Those auditioning should prepare a song and bring sheet music in the correct key (accompanist provided). Readings will be from the script. Rehearsals will begin immediately after casting for a Sept.

9-25 production run. No performers are paid.

For details, call (804) 734-6629.

SOS Butterfly Release | May 26 The annual Army Community Service Survivor Outreach program butterfly release is set for May 26, 10 a.m., at the Memorial Garden, adjacent to ACS on Mahone Avenue.

It is a special ceremony aimed at remembering, honoring and respecting the nation’s fallen heroes. The families of fallen service members are given a butterfly that will be released in memory of their loved ones.

For details, call (804) 734-6445.

Historic Marker Unveiling at CASCOM | May 26 CASCOM and the U.S. Army Women’s Museum will unveil a Virginia Historical Marker to commemorate the Camp Lee Women’s Army Corps Training Center May 26, 2 p.m., at the CASCOM Headquarters Plaza. The marker will be placed on Route 36 near the Lee Gate.

The event is open to the public with a special invitation to men and women who served at the installation

in the 1940s and 1950s.

For details, call (804) 734-4327.

ACS ACS Stress and Anger Management Classes | Tuesdays A Stress Management class is scheduled for the third Tuesday of every month, noon - 1 p.m. The next two dates are May 17 and June 21.

An Anger Management class will be held the first Tuesday of every month, noon - 1 p.m. The next two dates are June 7 and July 5. All free sessions are held at the Army Community Service, building 1231, Mahone Ave. For registration and details, call (804) 734-6381.

SPORTS & FITNESS FMWR Armed Forces Day Runs | May 21 Armed Forces Day 5K and 8-Mile runs are set for May 21, 8 a.m., at Williams Stadium.

The cost is $17 for active duty military and $20 for civilians prior to 3 p.m., May 13. The late registration fee is $25 for all participants at the stadium on race day, 6:45-7:45 a.m.

It is open to all ages and the general public. The first 200 people to register will receive T-shirts. Awards will be given to top finishers.

To pre-register, visit https://www. raceit.com/Register/?event=31724.

FMWR Cornhole Tournament | May 21 A free Cornhole Tournament is set for every third Saturday of the month until Sept. 17. The first competition is May 21, 6 p.m., at the HideAway, 5th Street.

Prizes will be awarded. Future dates are June 18, July 16, Aug. 20 and Sept. 17.

For details, call (804) 765-1539.

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 17

Calendar, continued Inaugural SAMC Golf Tourney | June 3

Hometown Heroes Fun Run in Prince George | The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club will May 14

hold its inaugural golf tournament June 3, 12:30 p.m., at the Cardinal Golf Club.

The cost is $35 for members, $40 for E-5 and below and $50 for all others.

Participants should register by May 27 at fortleesamcgolftournament.com. The event will include prizes, raffles and an awards dinner.

For details, call (254) 681-6117 or email eliannamarie97@yahoo.com.

YOUTH Lee Playhouse Summer Camp Registration | Ongoing Registration is open for the Lee Playhouse summer camp.

A cast and assignment session will be held June 29; workshop sessions are scheduled for July 11-15, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and performances are set for July 15, 7 p.m. and 16, 2:30 p.m. The cost is $215 for one child, $315 for two and $150 per child for three or more.

For registration and details, email info@ leeplayhouse.com.

CYSS Mother-Son Dance | June 11 Fort Lee Child, Youth and School Services will host its first Mother-Son Dance June 11, 5-8 p.m., at the Regimental Club.

Tickets must be purchased by June 3.

The cost is $30 per couple and $10 per additional child.

For details, visit leemwr.com or call Parent Central Services at (804) 765-3852.

OUTSIDE

THE

GATE

A 5K fun run to honor local heroes is set for May 14, 9 a.m., at Scott Memorial Park near the Prince George County Government Center.

The cost is $20. A free 1-mile kids’ fun run will be held at 10:15 a.m.

To register, visit www.raceit.com.

Jamestown Day | May 14 A range of family friendly activities to mark the 409th anniversary of the first permanent English colony in America is set for Jamestown Day May 14, 9 a.m.

- 5 p.m., at Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement, Williamsburg.

Visitors can takes tours, attend interpretive programs, witness military and maritime demonstrations and more.

For details, call (757) 229-4997.

Midlothian Mines Tours | May 14 The Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation will host two family friendly programs May 14 at Midlothian Mines Park, North Woolridge Road.

A Midlothian Mines Park Tour will be held 10-11 a.m. The fee is $8 per person.

A Midlothian Mines Geocache Hunt is set for 2-4 p.m. The fee is $10 per person.

For registration and details, call (804) 748-1623.

Positive Peace of Mind Class | May 14 A group session on Abandonment will be offered as part of a series of classes focused on Positive Peace of Mind May 14, 10 a.m. - noon, at 2106 Arlington Road, Hopewell.

The spiritual life coaching program is for women and children.

For details, call (703) 634-9492 or email info@ppmassociate.com.

Craft Beer Festival in Hopewell | May 12

Petersburg Battlefield Volunteer Meeting | May 17

The City of Hopewell will hold its inaugural Wonder City Craft Beer Festival May 14, noon - to 6 p.m., at Festival Park, 403 Appomattox St. (adjacent to the Beacon Theatre and overlooking the Appomattox River).

The festival is part of the city’s 100th anniversary celebration.

Visit http://wondercitybeerfest.com for tickets.

Petersburg National Battlefield will hold a public meeting to discuss community and volunteer support for trail maintenance May 17, 6 p.m., at the Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St. This initial meeting seeks to determine interest levels for trail projects, communication methods and creating a network of contacts and supporters.

For details, call (804) 732-6481 ext 211.

18 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

FRPPXQLW\ WUHH SODQWLQJ

WORD SEARCH | BY SGT. MCGILLICUDDY

Contributed Photo

A group of Soldiers assigned to Fort Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charlie Company, 262nd Quartermaster Battalion, pose for photographs at Lee Memorial Park in Petersburg, where they assisted with the Arbor Day event for Petersburg third-graders April 29. The Soldiers helped students plant trees to culminate their study of the Project Plant-It program. To further their knowledge, the students also rotated around several exhibits to help them learn about trees, the environment, local history, fire safety, personal health and urban gardening.

KHOSLQJ WKH KXQJU\ A trio of Soldiers assigned to Tango Company, 266th Quartermaster Battalion, pack food into bags during a Feed the Hungry Voucher Program event April 27 at an annex adjacent to Southside High School Education Center in Dinwiddie County. One hundred and twenty area families benefited from the event. In addition to packaging food, the Soldiers also unloaded food from a freezer truck and handed them out to local families registered for assistance.

Contributed Photo

Âś 6 52&. $1' 52// T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

Find the names of 1960s-era rock and roll bands and solo performers. The answers in the puzzle are forward, backward, vertical, horizontal and diagonal.

Animals Beach Boys Beatles Bob Dylan Byrds Cream Crosby Stills and Nash Dave Clark Five Donovan Doors Grateful Dead Janis Joplin

)ULHQGV RI WKH /RZHU $SSRPDWWR[ 5LYHU

Jefferson Airplane Jimi Hendrix Joan Baez Kingsmen Kinks Led Zeppelin Mamas and Papas Moody Blues Paul Revere and the Raiders Pete Seeger Pink Floyd Rolling Stones Simon and Garfunkel The Who Troggs Woody Guthrie Yardbirds For this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answers, visit www.ftleetraveller.com/ community_life/puzzle/.

:DNHÂżHOG 6W 3 2 %R[ 3HWHUVEXUJ 9D

Â&#x2021; &RQWDFW8V#)2/$5 9$ RUJ

www.fortleetraveller.com | May 12, 2016 | Traveller | 19

DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)

BY PHONE:

BY MAIL:

BY EMAIL:

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

travellernews@verizon.net

TO PLACE AN AD...

Call 804-526-86 56 today!

Reach more than 10,000 active duty military, civil service employees, retirees, their spouses and the civilian community.

Religious Announcements Church of Christ • A Cappella Singing Sunday Bible Schools – 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Assembly – 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Wendesday Assembly – 7:00 p.m.

Nursery • Senior Citizen Group • Youth & Adult Group Activities

804-526-5286 • 601 Cameron Av. • Colonial Heights www.cameronavenuechurch.net

You are cordially invited to worship with

THE CHURCH AFTER DARK on SUNDAY evenings at 6PM

Announcements

Announcements

NEW ONLINE DISCOUNT GIFTSHOP

WWW.JJDISCOUNTGIFTSHOP.COM and Wholesale Distributor Discount Gift Shop

OVER 3000 ITEMS MR. JAMES JENKINS Cell: 804-898-2534 • jenkinsje@comcast.net For Rent-House (All)

For Rent-House (All)

• Dress Code is Casual • Pastor, Elder Maxine Leonard

(804) 526-0502 1001 Blvd.

Colonial Heights, VA 23834 Aimee Bradley Property Manager

Come join us!

10531 South Crater Rd., Petersburg, VA

804.712.3731 Furniture-Household Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!

Can deliver: 804-253-5154 For Rent-Furnished Apts COUNTY LINE APARTMENTS $895/mo. 1 BR, 1 BA, Fully Furnished, You need nothing but your suitcase! Smoke-free secure building, no pets. Includes individual washer/dryer. Rent includes all utilities.

APARTMENTS

Colonial Heights $695/month Oak Apartments

Our 1,000 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath townhomes offer a great living room, eat in kitchen, deep linen closet, large pantry (at Concord), private patios and close to the interstate, Fort Lee, shopping and more.

100 Oak Ave. #6 Coming Soon 2 bedroom, 1.5 baths, rent includes water, trash and sewer.

No washer/dryer hookup.

Colonial Heights $755/month Concord Apartments

Colonial Heights $735/month Meridian Apartments

1500 Concord Ave. Units 6, 16, 20 2 bedroom, 1.5 baths, rent includes water, trash and sewer.

1400 Meridian Ave. No Vacancy 2 bedroom, 1.5 baths, rent includes water, trash and sewer.

Call Jeff, 804-283-5760 www.TheCountyLineApartments.com

THE COMFORTS OF HOME IN A PEACEFUL SETTING

• 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms Available (floor plans up to 1200 sq.ft.)

• 6 thru 12 Month Leases • Small Pets Welcome • Swimming Pool & Fitness Center • Washer/Dryer • Monitored Intrusion Alarms • Stainless Appliances Available

804.733.8710 1700 Johnson Road, #2D • Petersburg, VA 23805 Managed by Drucker & Falk, LLC

MINUTES TO FORT LEE

20 | Traveller | May 12, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

WE PROUDLY SALUTE THOSE WHO SERVE. WE’RE HONORED TO EXTEND OUR MILITARY DISCOUNT TO ACTIVE DUTY, RESERVES, AND RETIREES. PLUS, NOW THROUGH MAY – ALL VETERANS! * MILITARY MEMBERS AND THEIR SPOUSES CAN COMBINE THIS DISCOUNT WITH MOST CURRENT INCENTIVES FOR AMAZING VALUE.

PRIORITY CHEVROLET

HOLIDAY CHEVROLET

RICK HENDRICK CHEVROLET

CASEY CHEVROLET

HALL CHEVROLET

DUKE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

RK CHEVROLET

KEN HOUTZ CHEVROLET

OBX CHEVROLET

HUTCHENS CHEVROLET

PERFORMANCE CHEVROLET

EDENTON MOTORS INC.

HAMPTON CHEVROLET

MIKE DUMAN CHEVROLET

CHESAPEAKE NORFOLK

CHESAPEAKE

VIRGINIA BEACH KITTY HAWK

ELIZABETH CITY HAMPTON

WILLIAMSBURG

NEWPORT NEWS SUFFOLK

GLOUCESTER

NEWPORT NEWS EDENTON

FRANKLIN

ChevyDealer.com *Eligible military personnel includes Active Duty members, Reservists, National Guard members, Veterans and Retirees — including their spouses — of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

Excludes 2015/2016 Equinox L, Colorado 2SA,&nbsp; Impala Limited and Spark EV; 2016 Malibu and Traverse L models, Cruze, Cruze Limited L Manual and Corvette Z06. 2015 Chevrolet Cruze L Manual. Take delivery by 5/31/16. See dealer for details.