Fort Lee Traveller 12.08.16

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SEE PAGE 11 LEE SOLDIERS COMPLETE RECORD-BREAKING TASK After hauling a shipment of toys to North Carolina for a world-record attempt, members of the BOSS program returned with a hefty donation for Holiday Helper SEE PAGE 3

NEW AFTB COURSE LINE-UP 2017 schedule includes classes for ďŹ&#x201A;edgling spouses and families facing PCS moves SEE PAGE 4

TROOPS TAGGED FOR TASTE TEST Soldiers from the QM School recently chowed down on the latest ďŹ eld rations out of Natick

TOY SAFETY TIPS Parts, paint and power supply are among the things parents should consider according to Kenner clinic expert

SEE PAGE 5

SEE PAGE 12

2 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

PERFECTION SOMETIMES POINTLESS

The twelve takes of Christmas Contributing Writer

“C’mon everybody!” I bellowed from our living room, “Let’s get this over with.”

“Kids, honey?” I implored while steadying the makeshift tripod crafted from three National Geographic magazines, a thesaurus, two drink coasters and an Anthony’s Seafood matchbook.

The setup was a half-hour ordeal to achieve the precise trajectory needed to capture an image of our family and the dog in front of the fireplace.

I was reluctant to move, knowing the tiniest slip of the hand (or the dog’s tail) might ruin my painstakingly calibrated line of sight. Growing impatient when no one responded to my wailing pleas, I finally gave up and marched off to find them.

With only one day of Thanksgiving break left before

the kids would return to their respective schools, this task had to get done. I would not let another year go by without a family photo. It’s a tradition familiar to military folks who are always on the move and, despite my husband’s recent retirement after 20-plus years in the Navy, I was not going to give it up.

Twenty minutes later, I managed to drag the resistant members of my family into the living room. My husband, Francis, was miffed that I forced him to abandon a riveting rerun of “House Hunters.” My son, Hayden, was annoyed he had to pause “Dragon Warrior VII” just as he was about to master “Ranger Class.” My daughter, Anna, couldn’t fathom what was so important she had to stop texting her boyfriend.

My youngest, Lilly, was pouting about being torn away from Snapchat.

They were all sporting major

attitudes, but it was now or never.

“Listen! I don’t like this any more than you do, but our family and friends have come to expect a Molinari family photo card every year, so … backs straight, stomachs tight, and get happy, dammit!”

My moping gaggle huddled on the hearth, looking like they were standing in front of a firing squad.

“Leave a spot for me on the left, and smile,” I ordered from behind the camera.

I gingerly jabbed the timer button, careful not to upset the makeshift matchbook-coaster tripod, and then leapt like an overweight gazelle across our faux oriental rug into my designated position.

“Mom, the camera’s blinking.”

“Honey, when do you want us to smile?”

“Are you sure you pressed the button, Mom?” “I don’t KNOW!” I grunted through my grinning clenched

Holiday worship schedule The Religious Support Office has slated special worship services for the holiday season. Additionally, some of its regular services will not be held during Holiday Block Leave. For details, call (804) 734-6494.

Catholic Services The Christmas and New Year Catholic worship services at Memorial Chapel are as follows: • Dec. 24, 4 p.m., Christmas Eve Mass • Dec. 25, 9 a.m., Christmas Day Mass

• Dec. 31, 4 p.m., New Year’s Eve Mass • Jan. 1, 9 a.m., New Year’s Mass Protestant Services Protestant worship services – all located at Liberty Chapel – are planned for the following dates and times: • Dec. 24, 4 p.m., Christmas Eve Service • Dec. 25, 11 a.m., Combined Service • Dec. 31, 10 p.m., Collective Gospel Watch Night Service • Jan. 1, 11 a.m., Combined Service

Fort Lee

Commanding General ........Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams Garrison Commander ..................... Col. Adam W. Butler 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 Atkinson Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.

Jewish Services The following activities will take place at Congregation Brith Achim, 314 South Blvd., Petersburg. Chanukah is celebrated Dec. 24 - Jan. 1.

• Dec. 18, 6 p.m., Annual Chanukah Celebration • Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m., Shabbat Services • Dec. 24, 10 a.m., Shabbat Services • Dec. 30, 7:30 p.m., Shabbat Services • Dec. 31, 10 a.m., Shabbat Services For details, call (804) 732-3968.

Other Services No Islamic Prayer Services will be held

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.

flawless shot. With my last ounce of patience, I tapped the button and pounced into position, tipping my jaw forward to hide my double chin. The kids replaced their fake grins with genuine sparkling smiles. Francis leaned behind me to hide his now sweatstained armpits. Moby sat, in perfect obedience, his ears handsomely perked.

Like the townspeople of Bethlehem, we looked for the bright light that would finally bring us salvation …

“Why didn’t it flash?” Francis whispered.

After another minute, Lilly extracted herself from the frozen pose to check the camera. Peering at the digital display, she read aloud, “Change battery pack.”

Realizing a flawless family photo was never going to happen, we decided to make do with what we had. None of those twelve takes were flawless, but they captured the essence of the Molinari tribe. Sometimes reality is as perfect as a family gets.

Dec. 23 or Dec. 30.

There will be no Ordnance RELOAD Services Dec. 18 - Jan. 1.

There will be no Latter Day Saints Services Dec. 18 - Jan. 1.

The last Dinner and Discipleship of the year is set for Dec. 14.

There will be no religious education classes on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.

Visit the RSO’s social media page – www. facebook.com/FortLeeReligiousActivities – for updates and additional activities.

– Staff Reports

COVER

Lisa Smith Molinari

teeth, “Just keep smiling!”

“But, isn’t it supposed to fl…” *FLASH* It took two more takes before we realized the camera flashed after a prescribed series of slow and fast blinks. Hayden sneezed in the middle of take number four.

The phone rang during take number five. I blinked in take number six. We all got the giggles in take number seven when Francis released a loud belch.

Composing ourselves for take eight, we realized we forgot to include the dog, Moby, and it took two more takes, three pieces of cheese and a tennis ball before he would agree to sit.

Somewhere along the way, I inadvertently nudged the June 2014 issue of National Geographic, and it took me 20 minutes and three more ruined takes to get the family centered in the viewfinder again.

On take number thirteen, we were desperate to end the torturous holiday photo odyssey and agreed to cooperate for one final,

THE

OF

ON

COMMENTARY | PURSUIT

Lesley Atkinson

CASCOM and Fort Lee garrison leaders and their spouses lower a lever to light up the installation’s holiday tree at the annual Grand Illumination Dec. 1 on the Lee Club lawn. See more photos on Page 11.

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 3

BOSS troops collect massive toy shipment for HHA Amy Perry Production/News Assistant Editor

About 25 Soldiers from Fort Lee’s Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program participated in a veterans’ group charity attempt to break a world record Nov. 29.

The U.S. Veterans Corps in Morrisville, N.C., coordinates a toy drop each year for its program, “Toys for the Lil’ Troops,” which collects items for children of military families. This year, however, they wanted to go bigger. The organization also had assistance from Lenovo, a computer manufacturing company also in Morrisville.

In an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most toys donated in 24 hours, the organization had to break 45,557 pounds, set by beverage maker Tang in 2013.

The group reached out to Fort Lee’s Holiday Helper Association for a donation of

1,000 pounds of toys, which would be returned tenfold to help the Fort Lee community.

The BOSS program sprung to help, said Matthew Haug, BOSS advisor.

“We started planning this months ago with HHA,” he said.

“We got the vehicles and personnel together to go to North Carolina to pick up the thousands of pounds of toys.”

Haug said his Soldiers were very motivated to volunteer.

“They are very excited to be part of this,” he said. “Just to do anything they can to help their fellow Soldiers and families for the holidays means a lot. They are very proud and happy to be doing this.”

Sgt. Damien Broadnax, BOSS vice president, said the whole project was a great experience.

“Not only was it an event that helped out the Fort Lee community and its kids, it also was an opportunity to be part of something that broke a Guinness World Record,” he said.

Before the Soldiers left

with their donation, it was announced the organization did earn the new world record. The final tally was 52,076 pounds of toys. Susan Garling, the marketing and outreach manager for HHA, helped coordinate the collection of toys to donate to the organization.

“It’s great they earned the world record,” she said, “but it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved, especially the children in our community.”

The holiday season can be tough for many military families, and Fort Lee’s BOSS president Sgt. Chance McCree said the installation’s single Soldiers wanted to help.

“This project is something we wanted to do to help out the community,” he said. “Most of them can’t go home for the holidays or don’t have a lot of family, so they were excited to be able to make other people’s holidays brighter. They see it as a way to help out their fellow Soldiers.”

Annual CFC solicitation period nears end The annual fundraiser supporting thousands of health and human services agencies is nearing an end.

The Combined Federal Campaign, dubbed the largest annual workplace charity event in the world, concludes its solicitation period Dec. 15.

Would-be contributors can donate “well into January,” said Staff Sgt. Kevin Wethy, CFC coordinator for Fort Lee. To make contributions, those federal employees using My Pay (https:// mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx) may contribute directly from the website. Click on “Combined Federal

Champaign” listed on the main menu.

Alternately, donations can be made through CFC key leaders representing each installation organization. Contributions also can be make via the Office of Personnel Management website at www.opm. g o v / c o m b i n e d - f e d e ra l campaign/ and click on “Donating through CFC.” Last year, the Fort Lee community donated more than $110,000 to the various agencies listed with the CFC, said Wethy. This year’s donations are about half of where they were last

year at this point, he added.

“It’s going a little slower than usual,” he said.

Although the numbers seem low, added Wethy “by the end of January, they’ll be much higher,” he said, noting trends observed over the past two years.

For more information on the CFC or to see a listing of eligible agencies located around the country, visit www.opm.gov/combinedfederal-campaign/.

For a list of agencies serving the local area, visit http:// www.cvacfc.org or www. facebook.com/cva.cfc.

– Staff Reports

Amy Perry

Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers representative Pfc. Justin Craig, assigned to Kenner Army Health Clinic, passes a play kitchenette to other volunteers while unloading thousands of pounds of toys from a delivery truck Nov. 29 at an installation staging area. The donation was provided by the U.S. Veterans Corps in Morrisville, N.C. In a partnership project supported by the Fort Lee BOSS organization, the Holiday Helper Association sent a 1,000-pound shipment of toys to the USVC, contributing to its successful Guinness World Record achievement of collecting 52,076 pounds of donated toys. As a reward for their participation, the HHA received a fifth of those donated items in return.

The 10,000 pounds of toys received by the HHA will be distributed to financially strapped Fort Lee service members and families at the McGuire Veterans Hospital in Richmond.

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Contributed Photo

Marine volunteers help unload bicycles from tractor trailers at the Holiday Helper warehouse recently. The organization that supports military members and their families collected a record number of bikes for the holiday season.

They will be among the items given to selected families this Friday at the HH “shopping day.”

4 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

$)7% FRXUVHV DYDLODEOH Fort Lee’s Army Family Team Building Program has released its course calendar for fiscal 2017. A host of new classes are being offered in efforts to adequately meet the needs of today’s Army families, as well as vastly changing and stretched Army resources.

AFTB Program Manager Frenchi Watts Kemp said her team is striving to adapt, yet remain viable and relevant.

“We are excited about our AFTB course offerings this year,” she said. “Our AFTB volunteers worked hard and designed a schedule offering classes in shorter blocks of time instead of two or three-day series.

We hope this will provide our Fort Lee families, service members and civilians more of an opportunity to take advantage of the great classes AFTB has to offer while at the same time saving time and resources.”

Two classes – I Married a Soldier, Now What? and To Lead or Not to Lead – are being offered in three-hour blocks of time, from 9 a.m. - noon in most cases, at least once a month.

Watts Kemp said, The I Married a Soldier, Now What? class focuses on helping spouses and family members who are new to the military to become familiar with military life and knowledge. The next class will be Dec. 13.

AFTB also offers classes such as PCS Moves and Adapting to Change, in an effort to assist with PCS transitions. This

class will offer a course from Master Resiliency Training.

To kick off the year, Fort Lee’s Army Community Service will host an AFTB birthday celebration from 11:30 a.m. 1 p.m. on Dec. 15 at the Fort Lee Main Exchange. There will be a cake-cutting ceremony, AFTB Jeopardy, and opportunities for people to win prizes.

“Many people do not know, but AFTB has been around since the 1990s,” Watts Kemp said. “It was established in 1994 after crucial lessons were learned about family readiness after the Gulf War.” At a Pentagon ceremony in 1998, four years after AFTB became an official Army program, Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, Chief of Staff of the Army, and SMA Richard E. Hall proclaimed Dec. 16 as Army Family Team Building Day. “This month, we are celebrating 22 years of AFTB helping the ‘Army Take Care of Its Own’ through education and empowerment,” said Watts Kemp.

For more information on classes and to register, visit www.leemwr.com and click on the Army Community Service link and the Army Family Team Building Tab. For class schedules visit ACS or call Watts Kemp at (804) 734-7979.

392nd Band Holiday Concert | Dec. 10-11 Fort Lee’s 392nd Army Band will perform a rock-centric holiday concert Dec. 1011, 3 p.m., at the Lee Theater. It’s free and open to the public. Tickets are not required.

Visitors who do not have a DOD-issued identification card or post pass can submit a request for access in advance. For details, visit www.lee.army.mil/pmo/access.aspx. The visitor control center is located at the Lee Avenue gate.

Fitness Center Hours Change | Jan. 3 MacLaughlin and Clark fitness centers will have adjusted hours starting Jan. 3.

The new hours for Clark will be 5 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. The hours for MacLaughlin will be 5-9 a.m. and 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., Monday - Friday; and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., weekends and holidays. Family and MWR has operated the centers above the approved IMCOM baseline standard and, after an analysis of the usage, FMWR reduced the hours to meet the standard that had the least impact on customers.

For details, call (804) 765-3053.

Actors Needed for Commissary Video | Dec. 12 The Defense Commissary Agency is seeking two military members for a one-day video shoot Dec. 12. The video is for a public service announcement to promote the launch of the agency’s new nutrition guide initiative. Participants will perform PT-style exercises and commissary shopping also will be featured.

If interested, send an email with your name, unit and contact information, and a recent head-and-shoulder photo to av.production@deca.mil.

DES Santa Run | Dec. 11 A convoy of fire trucks and military police vehicles will escort Santa Claus through Fort Lee’s residential areas during the annual Directorate of Emergency Services Santa Run set for Dec. 11, 6-8 p.m.

The run may cause brief traffic delays and motorists are asked to be patient and not take unnecessary risks like attempting to pass the convoy.

For details, contact the PMO at (804) 734-7417.

– Staff Reports

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Changes to Gate Hours During Holiday Season Fort Lee’s Temple Avenue Gate will be closed Dec. 19 - Jan. 2, and the Visitor Control Center at Lee Gate will close two hours early over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday weekends. The hours at all other access control points will remain unchanged.

Ordnance Campus workers scheduled to work over the holiday break can use the 24-hour Sisisky Boulevard Gate and the flyover bridge along 11th Street to reach their duty locations. On Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, only the Lee Avenue and Sisisky Boulevard gates will be open. The Jackson Circle Gate is restricted to that housing area’s residents and guests. The normal Lee Gate and Visitor Control Center weekend and federal holiday hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. Over Christmas and New Year’s weekend, the VCC will close at 9 p.m.

For information about entry requirements, visit www.lee.army.mil/pmo/access.aspx.

Kenner Holiday Closures

Contributed Photo

A team of unit leaders from the 262nd Quartermaster Battalion runs toward the finish line after completing a 16-station training event at Fort Pickett Nov. 4. During the full-day exercise – conducted as part of the battalion’s Leader Professional Development Program – squads tackled a variety of obstacles ranging from barbwire crawls to tower climbs, and a land navigation course through areas with thick vegetation and steep terrain.

Kenner Army Health Clinic will close Dec. 16, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., for staff holiday luncheons and from 1-4 p.m. for a commander’s call and training. Additional closures are planned for Dec. 23-26 and Dec. 30, and Jan 2.

Troop Medical Clinic 1 and Mosier Troop Medical Clinic 2 will be closed for the duration of the holiday block leave period, Dec. 19 - Jan. 2. The Active Duty Clinic will support AIT troops on a walk-in basis, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. For details, call (804) 734-9057.

To request an authorization for acute or urgent care on a holiday or after hours, call the Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-TRICARE and choose option 1.

For urgent care while traveling, call (800) 874-2273 and choose Option 1. For medical emergencies, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 5

7$67( 7(67 Quartermasters assess new ďŹ eld rations Chris Hart CASCOM Public Affairs

The Army is adding new items to its meal ration menu. Soldiers from Tango Company, 266th Quartermaster Battalion, taste tested the latest dishes created by engineers from Natick Soldier, Research, Development and Engineering Center to determine if they should make it to the field. â&#x20AC;&#x153;(Unit group rations) must be warfighter-tested and warfighterapproved,â&#x20AC;? said Beverly Hamlette, a quality assurance officer for field testing at the Joint Culinary Center of Excellence here.

Natick brought the dishes to the Quartermaster Field Operations Training Branch to gather Soldier feedback. The UGR-Heat and Serve Field Evaluation consisted of several new meal items, and

Soldiers scored them based on their degree of tastiness. Items included a breakfast of turkey sausage links â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to meet the growing needs of Soldiers who do not eat pork products â&#x20AC;&#x201C; eggs and biscuits; and a dinner option with meatballs, pasta and brown gravy.

The new rations will be developed for taste, nutritional value and Soldier preference, said Meg Walker, Natick project officer.

Soldiers were excited to provide their feedback on items that might be served in the future, and shared their thoughts on how a homecooked meal is essential to field living. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new menu items for the field are good,â&#x20AC;? said Pvt. William Johnson, one of the AIT troops working the serving line. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Soldiers we served seemed happy to fed and on their way.â&#x20AC;?

Chris Hart

Soldiers from the 266th Quartermaster Battalion serve others in a recent training exercise at the Quartermaster Field Operations Training Branch here.

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6 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

“Reflections,” Maj. Michael Towner’s image expression, won first place in the people category, active duty military division, in 2015.

Photo Contest Maj. Michael Towner

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FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas – Army Installation Management Command is hosting its annual Army Digital Photography Contest to showcase the creative and artistic talents of the military community.

The contest, which is run by IMCOM’s G9 Family and MWR Directorate, is open to active-duty military members and MWRauthorized patrons, including families, retirees and Department of the

Army Civilians. Contest entries are being accepted through Jan. 31.

The contest is meant to encourage novice and accomplished photographers to capture their favorite views, moments and adventures from across the world. Participants can submit photos in the following categories: animals, design elements, digital darkroom, military life, nature and landscapes, people and still life.

Participants may enter

up to three photos per category at the garrison level. All categories include monochrome and color photographs, according to the contest rules. Prizes are $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place.

In 2015, more than 2,500 entries were submitted to the contest.

The entries represented 58 installations and were submitted by contestants from the Army National Guard, Army Reserve and non-Army installations.

Participants may submit their entries to w w w . a r m y m w r. c o m / digital-photo.aspx For garrison-specific instructions and details, participants should contact a representative at the Picture Perfect Frame Shop, building 9024, Battle Drive.

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Gen. Gustave F. Perna, commanding general, Army Materiel Command, speaks to those gathered for the Sustainment Brigade Commanders Forum at the Army Logistics University Nov. 29. The forum covered discussions on a variety of topics to include combat training center trends, command and support relationships and talent management. The event also enabled senior leaders to network with their peers to better share information across the different commands represented at the forum.

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 7

RECOGNIZING CIVILIANS | SPOTLIGHT

&,1'< +<21 &+2( Hometown: Seoul, South Korea Family: “Two daughters, Keondra, 23, who is in the Navy; and Kiani, 12, a black belt in taekwondo. I have three sisters and one brother. My mother and step dad live in the area. My mother is my rock and the strongest woman I know!”

Job title: assistant manager and beverage coordinator, Family and MWR Regimental Community Center Job duties: “Successfully run three clubs with eight bars, seven bartenders, and oversee catering and overall business operations.”

How did you get started with the federal government? “Started as a bartender in April 2007 with the Regimental Club and quickly moved up the food chain through hard work and dedication.”

Thoughts on your working environment: “I love my job. I love meeting new people and hearing the stories and experiences my customers have gone through.

I get very attached to some, and it’s hard to see them leave once their schooling has ended. But, I am still close to several cus-

tomers who always come in to say hi when they are back in town.”

Challenges of your job: “New challenges arise daily. I take them on with a professional attitude, and they are always accomplished successfully. I don’t know what it means to say ‘I quit.’”

Motivation for job: “My children. I wouldn’t have the desire to work so hard if it wasn’t for them.”

One thing you can’t live without: “A good support system. I have a great boss and a great team working for me. My children are very proud of my accomplishments and support me when I have to work long days and nights.”

Favorite vacation: “I love Hawaii since I graduated high school there and have several friends there including my Navy daughter Keondra. However, I would love to visit Italy or Bora Bora.”

Favorite food: “Korean and Italian.”

Worst fear: “Not feeling in charge of my own life.”

Hobbies: “Spending quality time with friends and family.”

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Life lesson to share: “To never give up.

As a first-generation immigrant, my mother, baby sister and I came to the U.S. in hopes to do better for ourselves. My mother refused to take any kind of welfare or handouts as she felt if she didn’t work for it, she didn’t deserve it. This hardworking mentality was instilled in me very young.

Through hard work and dedication, anything is possible. We came to the U.S. when I was 4 years old, only speaking Korean. I was able to learn to speak English within a year and have been in management since I was 18 years old. I have dedicated my life

to my family and as long as family is first, you will always go far. Let them be your motivation and your drive to continue to do more. Never give up!”

Someone you admire: “I have to say I truly admire my boss Donald Houchins II. He is not only a strong manager but one of my best friends and he’s an awesome family man. He has strong communication skills I would one day like to attain.”

What do you expect from your leaders? “Great communication skills, strong listening ear, great advice whether it be personal or professional.”

What is something people would be surprised to know about you? “I really am an introvert. I only let people know what I want them to know about me. For the most part, most people only know the shell I show them.”

Future aspirations: “To continue to work for FMWR and grow in my field as well as learn more in other areas of FMWR. I would love to see my two daughters continue to succeed and work hard for everything they are attaining. They are truly my future!”

– Compiled by Amy Perry

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8 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 9

(LEFT) Sgt. 1st Class William Morton, the 544th’s kennel master, critiques Spc. Brittany Bishop’s performance.

(BELOW) Batman, one of seven dogs assigned to the 544th Military Police Detachment, is affable and approachable, but can be transformed into an aggressor with a single command. All the canines assigned to the 544th are either narcotics or explosive and patrolduty capable, meaning they can act as protectors, aggressors or search dogs.

Spc. Brittany Bishop, a canine handler assigned to the 544th Military Police Detachment (Military Working Dog), guides Batman, a narcoticssniffing German shepherd, through a training drill at a warehouse recently.

The 544th is one of the few deployable units on the installation. It also has a mission of supporting the U.S. Secret Service and local law enforcement. (LEFT) Spc. Nicholas Ames and Kryno, a German shepherd, search for a “prize” on the facility’s metal-grated second floor.

‘Best job in the Army’

FIND

& T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

T

he warehouse is fairly large, roughly the size of a football field. He’s oblivious to the lighting, the layout or the various supplies and goods stacked on the shelves. He only glances at the occasional stranger walking about the

confines.

Undoubtedly, he’s on a mission – probing, panting, slobbering and whiffing his way down each aisle at her direction – to find the “prize.”

“He” is Batman, a cape-less, 2-year-old black-and-brown German shepherd who along with Spc. Brittany Bishop is one of several dog handler teams assigned to Fort Lee’s 544th Military Police Detachment (Military Working Dog).

Likely one of the installation’s smallest units with only eight Soldiers, the 544th has a diverse, layered and far-reaching mission, said Sgt. 1st Class William C. Morton, kennel master and noncommissioned officer in charge.

“We are highly deployable, we support the garrison’s law enforcement mission and the U.S. Secret Service,” he explained from his unit’s complex located off of A Avenue.

“This is not a typical garrison unit.”

The unit’s mission priority is contingency operations, added Morton. Two 544th handler-canine teams are currently assigned to other locations. Deployments average between two and four a year, he said.

Additionally, there are “anywhere between 10 and 15” Secret Service assignments annually, said Morton.

K-9 teams carry out either narcotics or explosives detec-

001TRA12082016.indd A8-A9

... is an accurate description of what they can do, but there is far more to the mission of handler-dog teams and their unit tion missions. Teams also perform patrol duties to supplement law enforcement activities. The garrison mission requires all three capabilities. To fulfill its duties, the teams undertake a rigorous schedule of training and utilization, said Morton.

“These guys train day-in and day-out each week,” said the Soldier, noting canines must constantly train to prevent falloffs in proficiency. “They are required to maintain at least four hours of patrol training (obedience and aggression) per week and four hours of detection training per week whether its explosives or narcotics.”

Certified teams require an additional “96 utilization hours – whether it’s Secret Service, health and welfare, law enforcement or force protection missions – each month,” added Morton.

Bishop and Batman were certified earlier this year. The warehouse drill to find narcotics training aids was routine but critical because Bishop said she is not as proficient with him as she would like to be.

“We just got him in July,” said the 24-year-old who joined the Army two years ago. “He’s really young (2 years old) so he still has a lot of issues because he’s still

pretty much a puppy.”

In the warehouse, Batman was generally obedient and spoton in finding the narcotics training aids, said Bishop, but his ability to listen is spotty when he’s off-leash in certain situations. That has been a source of frustration, but she has learned patience is key and even small increments of improvement should be celebrated whether the team was or was not successful in finding the narcotics “prizes.”

“We’re challenged with something different every day,” said the Raleigh, N.C., native. “As long as we learn from it, I believe we’ve successfully tackled that detection problem.”

The goal is to develop a stronger bond with the animal, said Bishop.

“The better the relationship, the better the team,” she said.

On top of the training, the dogs demand a regimen of care, said Morton.

“The dogs are a 24-hour-a-day duty,” said the Soldier who has been a handler 13 of his 17 years of service. “At the end of the day, we don’t just pack up and go home,” he said. “We have set hours in which someone has to come in and check on the dogs, feed them and make sure they are good to go.”

The cost of care and training makes dogs valuable assets, said Morton.

“You’re looking at between $10,000 and $20,000 a dog,” he said.

Of course, the dogs are not the only ones who require training in an MWD unit. Its Soldiers must check off a long list of individual skill and common training requirements. That makes the 544th an element in constant motion; one in which an absentee can disrupt operations, said Morton.

“Yeah, we don’t have a lot of Soldiers or dogs here, but when people have to go on leave, you’ve just shrunk your pool even more” in the conduct of fulfilling mission requirements, he said.

Other unit challenges include matching dogs with handlers (when feasible) and personnel changes. Generally, similar handler-dog dispositions make for better teams, said Morton.

Handlers new to the unit require a minimum of 30 days to become effective with dogs, which do not relocate with handlers. This is irrespective of the handler’s and dog’s skill or experience because team cohesion is critical to proficiency.

“If a team has been together two or three years,” said

Photos by T. Anthony Bell

Morton, “you’re going to see a different bond and relationship, and you’ll push for that team to be deployed versus a team put together within 30-90 days. They’re still green, fresh, still learning each other; not necessarily something I would want to put out front if I don’t have to.”

Dogs, said Morton, represent a variable that makes the MWD mission unique. They cannot be counseled like Soldiers to improve their performance, therefore much consideration has to be given to the dog’s temperament and rate and way of learning.

“It just takes repetition and training; consistent training,”said Morton. “If we’re not putting in that time, then we’re not going to get what we need to get out of that dog.”

The dog handler designation has long been an additional skill identifier for the military police occupational specialty (31B). Two years ago, dog handler was established as an MOS – 31K. The law enforcement portion of the training is held at the MP school located at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., but canine-specific instruction takes place at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.

K-9 training was originally established under the Quartermaster Corps during World War II. The MP Corps became responsible for the training in 1951.

Ask any one of the military working dog handlers what is best about their occupation, and not only are the answers similar, but they are accompanied by a fair amount of sentiment.

“This is by far the best job in the Army,” said Spc. Nicholas Ames, a 21-year-old Sherman, N.Y., native, describing the profession that requires him to work with dogs daily.

Ames grew up with dogs and always saw them as pets. Nowadays, he respectfully refers to his canine compatriots as coworkers.

“You’re out there getting to find people, apprehending the bad guys and finding those bombs,” Ames said.

“He’s still my best friend, and I still love and play with him. But when we’re working, we’re working hard, and it’s kind of cool to have that best friend that’s going through the same thing you’re going through – even though he’s just a dog.”

Sgt. 1st Class William Morton, who has his plate full as the 544th Military Police Detachment’s kennel master, no less treasures his access to the squad of four-legged coworkers.

“Being able to play with the dog all day long – it’s one of the greatest things in the world,” said the Chesterfield native. “There will be days when you just come in having woke up on the wrong side of the bed, but you go back there and start playing with that dog and everything kind of goes away.”

Spc. Brittany Bishop paid perhaps the highest compliment to the profession. A dog lover all of her life, the 24-year-old Raleigh, N.C., native, said the work is extremely rewarding. “It’s not even a job,” she said.

“It’s just fun stuff that I get paid to do.”

12/7/2016 4:37:16 PM

8 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 9

(LEFT) Sgt. 1st Class William Morton, the 544th’s kennel master, critiques Spc. Brittany Bishop’s performance.

(BELOW) Batman, one of seven dogs assigned to the 544th Military Police Detachment, is affable and approachable, but can be transformed into an aggressor with a single command. All the canines assigned to the 544th are either narcotics or explosive and patrolduty capable, meaning they can act as protectors, aggressors or search dogs.

Spc. Brittany Bishop, a canine handler assigned to the 544th Military Police Detachment (Military Working Dog), guides Batman, a narcoticssniffing German shepherd, through a training drill at a warehouse recently.

The 544th is one of the few deployable units on the installation. It also has a mission of supporting the U.S. Secret Service and local law enforcement. (LEFT) Spc. Nicholas Ames and Kryno, a German shepherd, search for a “prize” on the facility’s metal-grated second floor.

‘Best job in the Army’

FIND

& T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

T

he warehouse is fairly large, roughly the size of a football field. He’s oblivious to the lighting, the layout or the various supplies and goods stacked on the shelves. He only glances at the occasional stranger walking about the

confines.

Undoubtedly, he’s on a mission – probing, panting, slobbering and whiffing his way down each aisle at her direction – to find the “prize.”

“He” is Batman, a cape-less, 2-year-old black-and-brown German shepherd who along with Spc. Brittany Bishop is one of several dog handler teams assigned to Fort Lee’s 544th Military Police Detachment (Military Working Dog).

Likely one of the installation’s smallest units with only eight Soldiers, the 544th has a diverse, layered and far-reaching mission, said Sgt. 1st Class William C. Morton, kennel master and noncommissioned officer in charge.

“We are highly deployable, we support the garrison’s law enforcement mission and the U.S. Secret Service,” he explained from his unit’s complex located off of A Avenue.

“This is not a typical garrison unit.”

The unit’s mission priority is contingency operations, added Morton. Two 544th handler-canine teams are currently assigned to other locations. Deployments average between two and four a year, he said.

Additionally, there are “anywhere between 10 and 15” Secret Service assignments annually, said Morton.

K-9 teams carry out either narcotics or explosives detec-

001TRA12082016.indd A8-A9

... is an accurate description of what they can do, but there is far more to the mission of handler-dog teams and their unit tion missions. Teams also perform patrol duties to supplement law enforcement activities. The garrison mission requires all three capabilities. To fulfill its duties, the teams undertake a rigorous schedule of training and utilization, said Morton.

“These guys train day-in and day-out each week,” said the Soldier, noting canines must constantly train to prevent falloffs in proficiency. “They are required to maintain at least four hours of patrol training (obedience and aggression) per week and four hours of detection training per week whether its explosives or narcotics.”

Certified teams require an additional “96 utilization hours – whether it’s Secret Service, health and welfare, law enforcement or force protection missions – each month,” added Morton.

Bishop and Batman were certified earlier this year. The warehouse drill to find narcotics training aids was routine but critical because Bishop said she is not as proficient with him as she would like to be.

“We just got him in July,” said the 24-year-old who joined the Army two years ago. “He’s really young (2 years old) so he still has a lot of issues because he’s still

pretty much a puppy.”

In the warehouse, Batman was generally obedient and spoton in finding the narcotics training aids, said Bishop, but his ability to listen is spotty when he’s off-leash in certain situations. That has been a source of frustration, but she has learned patience is key and even small increments of improvement should be celebrated whether the team was or was not successful in finding the narcotics “prizes.”

“We’re challenged with something different every day,” said the Raleigh, N.C., native. “As long as we learn from it, I believe we’ve successfully tackled that detection problem.”

The goal is to develop a stronger bond with the animal, said Bishop.

“The better the relationship, the better the team,” she said.

On top of the training, the dogs demand a regimen of care, said Morton.

“The dogs are a 24-hour-a-day duty,” said the Soldier who has been a handler 13 of his 17 years of service. “At the end of the day, we don’t just pack up and go home,” he said. “We have set hours in which someone has to come in and check on the dogs, feed them and make sure they are good to go.”

The cost of care and training makes dogs valuable assets, said Morton.

“You’re looking at between $10,000 and $20,000 a dog,” he said.

Of course, the dogs are not the only ones who require training in an MWD unit. Its Soldiers must check off a long list of individual skill and common training requirements. That makes the 544th an element in constant motion; one in which an absentee can disrupt operations, said Morton.

“Yeah, we don’t have a lot of Soldiers or dogs here, but when people have to go on leave, you’ve just shrunk your pool even more” in the conduct of fulfilling mission requirements, he said.

Other unit challenges include matching dogs with handlers (when feasible) and personnel changes. Generally, similar handler-dog dispositions make for better teams, said Morton.

Handlers new to the unit require a minimum of 30 days to become effective with dogs, which do not relocate with handlers. This is irrespective of the handler’s and dog’s skill or experience because team cohesion is critical to proficiency.

“If a team has been together two or three years,” said

Photos by T. Anthony Bell

Morton, “you’re going to see a different bond and relationship, and you’ll push for that team to be deployed versus a team put together within 30-90 days. They’re still green, fresh, still learning each other; not necessarily something I would want to put out front if I don’t have to.”

Dogs, said Morton, represent a variable that makes the MWD mission unique. They cannot be counseled like Soldiers to improve their performance, therefore much consideration has to be given to the dog’s temperament and rate and way of learning.

“It just takes repetition and training; consistent training,”said Morton. “If we’re not putting in that time, then we’re not going to get what we need to get out of that dog.”

The dog handler designation has long been an additional skill identifier for the military police occupational specialty (31B). Two years ago, dog handler was established as an MOS – 31K. The law enforcement portion of the training is held at the MP school located at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., but canine-specific instruction takes place at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.

K-9 training was originally established under the Quartermaster Corps during World War II. The MP Corps became responsible for the training in 1951.

Ask any one of the military working dog handlers what is best about their occupation, and not only are the answers similar, but they are accompanied by a fair amount of sentiment.

“This is by far the best job in the Army,” said Spc. Nicholas Ames, a 21-year-old Sherman, N.Y., native, describing the profession that requires him to work with dogs daily.

Ames grew up with dogs and always saw them as pets. Nowadays, he respectfully refers to his canine compatriots as coworkers.

“You’re out there getting to find people, apprehending the bad guys and finding those bombs,” Ames said.

“He’s still my best friend, and I still love and play with him. But when we’re working, we’re working hard, and it’s kind of cool to have that best friend that’s going through the same thing you’re going through – even though he’s just a dog.”

Sgt. 1st Class William Morton, who has his plate full as the 544th Military Police Detachment’s kennel master, no less treasures his access to the squad of four-legged coworkers.

“Being able to play with the dog all day long – it’s one of the greatest things in the world,” said the Chesterfield native. “There will be days when you just come in having woke up on the wrong side of the bed, but you go back there and start playing with that dog and everything kind of goes away.”

Spc. Brittany Bishop paid perhaps the highest compliment to the profession. A dog lover all of her life, the 24-year-old Raleigh, N.C., native, said the work is extremely rewarding. “It’s not even a job,” she said.

“It’s just fun stuff that I get paid to do.”

12/7/2016 4:37:16 PM

10 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Securing Army information is of utmost importance The well-known World War II slogan â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loose lips sinks shipsâ&#x20AC;? clearly expresses what could happen if the wrong person obtained information and how security leaks could put military personnel in danger.

The meaning of this slogan is just as important today as it was 75 years ago.

Protecting classified and sensitive information depends on the human element of security â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Soldiers, civilian employees and contractors.

Safeguarding the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s information is of the utmost importance. This not only includes classified information but also sensitive information labeled for official use only. Just because it is not classified does not mean it should not be protected. There is a large amount of information that, while unclassified, could still do a great deal of damage to deploying and deployed units were it to fall into the wrong hands.

The following are doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ts of protecting classified and sensitive information: â&#x20AC;˘ Do maintain control of classified information at all times

OHDGHUVKLS GLVFXVVLRQ

â&#x20AC;˘ Do report all foreign travel in advance to your security manager â&#x20AC;˘ Do include all required markings on classified and FOUO documents, removable media and briefings â&#x20AC;˘ Do report all security incidents â&#x20AC;˘ Do destroy classified and sensitive papers, diskettes and other classified waste properly â&#x20AC;˘ Do not discuss classified or sensitive information in public places â&#x20AC;˘ Do not leave security containers unsecured and unattended â&#x20AC;˘ Do not process classified information on an unclassified computer â&#x20AC;˘ Do not take classified information home â&#x20AC;˘ Do not hand-carry classified information unless absolutely necessary Remember, security is everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility.

For more information, contact your organization security manager or the installation security manager at (804) 734-6412.

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Contributed Photo

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fort Lee Security Office

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Retired Maj. Gen. Hawthorne L. Proctor, the 46th Quartermaster General, poses with Col. Tamatha Patterson, 23rd Quartermaster Brigade commander, after he led an open discussion at the brigade monthly leadership development session Nov. 17. More than 100 leaders took part in the training that focused on respect for ethical beliefs and the dignity of others based on personal organizational values. His main message for leaders at all levels was to be the coach and developer, not the evaluator or judge. According to Proctor, leadership is based on two enablers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; credibility and trust. He asked several questions that led to lengthy open-minded and honesty dialogues. Proctor also displayed a progressive â&#x20AC;&#x153;road map to effective leadershipâ&#x20AC;? that explained the vision, intellect and warrior ethos senior ofďŹ cers look for in junior and mid-level leaders.

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www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 11

Grand

Illumination Photos by Lesley Atkinson

(CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT) Emily and Cody Spencer tell Santa their wish list for the holidays at the annual Grand Illumination Dec. 1 on the Lee Club lawn. The event was free to the public and featured music by the 392nd Army Band, carolers, train rides, free hot cocoa and cookIES GAMES AND MORE s 53/ VOLUNTEER *ULIE Coffman serves cookies to a group of BrownIES s #HILDREN FROM THE #HILD 9OUTH AND 3CHOOL Services program sing holiday carols on the MAIN STAGE FOR THE AUDIENCE s ! MOTHER LIFTS HER daughter to hang an ornament on the tree to the illumination ceremony.

12 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

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All sorts of gadgets, games and action figures have hit the store shelves, and youngsters can hardly wait to see what lands under the tree on Christmas morning. In all this excitement, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to stop and think about toy safety. The following are safeguards to consider while purchasing products and providing supervision of play activities: â&#x20AC;˘ Pick age-appropriate toys. Most show a â&#x20AC;&#x153;recommended ageâ&#x20AC;? sticker, which can be used as a starting point in the selection process. Be realistic about your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abilities and maturity level when choosing an ageappropriate toy. Playthings that have projectiles, for example, are never suitable for a child under age 4 - and even some 6-yearolds arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mature enough to handle them. Likewise, if a 3-year-old still puts everything into his or her mouth, wait a little longer to give that youngster toys and games with small parts and pieces. â&#x20AC;˘ Choose toys that are well-made. Used ones passed down from older relatives or siblings or bought at yard sales can be worn or frayed, which can some-

times be dangerous. Check all toys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new or used â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for buttons, batteries, yarn, ribbons, eyes, beads, and plastic parts that could easily be chewed or snapped off.

Make sure a stuffed animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tail is securely sewn on and the seams of the body are reinforced. Parts on any toy should be securely attached. Make sure there are no sharp edges and the paint is not peeling. â&#x20AC;˘ Think big. Until children turn 3, toy parts should be bigger than their mouth to prevent the possibility of choking. To determine whether it poses a choking risk, try fitting it through a toilet paper roll. If a toy or part of it can fit inside the cylinder, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not safe. â&#x20AC;˘ Make sure a child is physically ready for the toy.

For example, parents of older kids may buy a bike one size too big so as not to have to buy a new one next year.

This tactic can lead to serious injury if a child doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the physical skills to control the bigger bike. â&#x20AC;˘ Skip the balloons.

They may be cheerful party decorations and fun to bounce around, but latex material the main cause of toy-related choking fatalities in children. When ingested, uninflated balloons (or pieces of burst ones) can

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form a tight seal in a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airway and make it impossible for him to breathe. â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pick heavy toys. Could your child be harmed if it fell on him or her?

If so, pass. â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pick toys with a string or cord longer than 12 inches. A cord can easily wrap around a young childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neck, causing strangulation. Once children can climb up on their hands and knees, remove crib gyms and hanging mobiles. Be particularly vigilant about older toys. For example, an older model of a popular play kitchen may have a phone attached with a potentially deadly cord, while the latest model of the same kitchen has the more current and safer cordless phone. â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid toys with small magnets. The Consumer Product Safety Commission calls them a hidden home hazard. Small, powerful magnets are often used in toys, and they may fall and be swallowed. Two or more swallowed magnets (or a magnet and a metal object) can be attracted to each other through intestinal walls, twisting and pinching the intestines and causing holes, blockages, infection, or worse if not discovered and treated promptly.

â&#x20AC;˘ Watch out for toxic toys. Even when parents find one that seems safe, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to be sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not made with chemicals that can harm their child.

Phthalates, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;plasticizers,â&#x20AC;? are used to make plastic more flexible and durable, and these chemicals are found in many toys.

Cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic are other chemicals in everything from dolls and action figures to childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jewelry and stuffed animals.

Another rising concern is button batteries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the most potentially harmful type for young children.

These are the round, smallsized batteries often used to power watches, hearing aids and other miniature devices. They are easy to swallow and can get stuck in the esophagus, leading to serious injury or death.

Proper supervision of children at play is still â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and always will be â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the best way to protect them from toy-related injuries.

See more holiday safety tips by visiting www.aap. org and typing â&#x20AC;&#x153;holidayâ&#x20AC;? in the search window.

Protecting children from unsafe toys is the responsibility of parents and guardians. The CPSC provides free safety alerts, guides, posters, brochures, handbooks and other materials that can be used to help educate and spread consumer product safety information. For details, visit www.cpsc.gov.

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www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | TRAVELLER | 13

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE

‘Broadway Bound’ Auditions | Dec. 12-13 The Theater Company at Fort Lee will hold auditions for “Broadway Bound” Dec. 12-13, 7 p.m., at the Lee Theater.

Director Joy Williams seeks two adult males in their early 20s; two adult men, ages 50-70; and two adult females, 50 and older. Readings will be from the script.

Rehearsals begin early January.

For details, call (804) 734-6629.

KAHC Patient Town Hall | Dec. 13 Kenner Army Health Clinic will hold its next Patient Town Hall Dec. 13, 4:15 p.m., in Maj. Gen. Kenner Command Conference Room 2 (Room C-102). The 2017 goal is to strive for greatness in customer service and reduce appointment noshows with awareness and education.

For details, call (804) 734-9277.

Pet Photos With Santa | Dec. 13, 20 Community members can have their photos taken with Santa Claus and their favorite pet Dec. 13 and 20, 10 a.m. - 1

FORT LEE COMMUNITY

p.m., at the Fort Lee Veterinary Treatment Facility, building 11025 on 38th St. Participants should bring a camera for the free event. No reservations required.

The FLVT offers annual wellness exams, re-checks, vaccinations, and screening tests for internal parasites, heartworm disease, and tick-borne diseases. It is not an emergency clinic.

For details, call (804) 734-2433.

Fort Lee Federal Hiring Workshop | Dec. 15 A free Federal Hiring Workshop is set for Dec. 15, 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., at the Soldier Support Center, building 3400.

The session will provide information for participants to understand the federal application screening process and more.

For details, call (804) 734-6612.

KAHC Cholesterol Awareness Display | Through Dec. 31 Kenner Army Health Clinic is offering a cholesterol educational display in the pharmacy lobby through Dec. 31.

The exhibit will help educate patients

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on the importance of knowing their cholesterol levels, how to monitor them and steps to take if they are high.

For more details, call (804) 734-9993.

FMWR Right Arm Night at HideAway | Dec. 21 Right Arm Night takes place every third Wednesday of the month, starting at 4 p.m. at the HideAway, building 15013, 5th Street. The next date is Dec. 21.

It is a chance for bosses to bring their “right arm” out to relax and build camaraderie off duty. Drink specials and free snacks and pool will be available. It is open to all ranks and all services – military or civilian.

For details, call (804) 765-1523.

SPORTS & FITNESS FMWR Snow Xperience Trips Registration | Ongoing Registration is open for the Family

and MWR Outdoor Recreation Center discounted Snow Xperience Trips to the Wintergreen Resort Jan. 14, Feb. 11 and March 11.

The reduced-rate cost varies for skiing, snowboarding or tubing rentals and lift ticket packages. Transportation leaves for the resort at 7:30 a.m. on each date.

For registration and details, visit Outdoor Recreation, building 15014, on 5th Street, or call (804) 765-2059 or 765-2212.

FMWR Wilderness Survival Course Registration | Ongoing Outdoor Recreation will host a Wilderness Survival Course Jan. 21, 8 a.m.

- 5 p.m., at 15014 5th St. A certified instructor will lead participants in the principles of water filtration, primitive fire building, constructing natural shelters, wilderness first-aid and obtaining food in the wilderness. This course is open to ages 12 and older. The cost is $150 per student; registration is required

by Jan. 18.

For details, call (804) 765-2059 or 7652212.

$,7 IHPDOH IUHH WKURZ FKDPS Pvt. Ashley Sweigard, assigned to Juliet Company, 262nd Quartermaster Battalion, proudly holds the AIT/IET Female Free Throw Championship plaque for winning the event at Clark Fitness Center Nov. 19.

A total of 40 5-member teams were entered. In the final shoot-out, Sweigard defeated Pvt. Lashanya Dudley, Charlie Co., 832nd Ordnance Bn., in the tie-breaker round.

Contributed Photo

Soldiers from the 262nd Quartermaster Battalion pose with plaques they received after winning the 2016 Intramural Flag Football Championship at Williams Stadium Nov. 22. The top-seeded team went 4-0 in the post season and defeated second-seeded 111th Quartermaster Company, 27-19, in the title game. The 262nd was 9-1 on the season. Staff Sgt. Johnny Clay was named the offensive most valuable player and Sgt. Brett Lawter received the defensive MVP honor. The 111th also had an impressive season with an 8-2 league record and 3-2 in post season.

Anthony Nelson

14 | TRAVELLER | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Calendar, continued OUTSIDE

THE

GATE

Christmas Toy Lift in Chesterfield | Dec. 10 Pilots from the Virginia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines will collect toys donated at airports throughout the state and fly them to Richmond Executive – Chesterfield County Airport, Dec. 10, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., 7427 Airfield Drive.

During the day, Fort Lee Soldiers will transport the donations to the Holiday Helper Toy Store here for distribution.

Residents are encouraged to bring gifts to the airport through Dec. 10 and leave them in a donation box located in the lobby.

For details, contact Barbara Headley at (804) 580-4624 or barbaraheadley@ va.metrocast.net.

VWM Holiday Program and Concert | Dec. 15 “Silent Night on the Western Front, 1914,” a special holiday program and concert, will be presented Dec. 15, 6 p.m., at the Virginia War Memorial, 621 South Belvidere St., Richmond.

The program focuses on how French, German and British soldiers fighting during World War I initiated an unofficial truce on Christmas Eve 1914 and left their trenches to exchange greetings, share food, sing carols and play a game of soccer.

For details, call (804) 786-2060.

Henricus Boars Head Feast | Dec. 17 Visitors can experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Christmas in the 1590s, Dec. 17, 5:30-8 p.m., at Henricus Historical Park, 251 Henricus Park Road, Chester.

WORD SEARCH | BY SGT. MCGILLICUDDY

The event will include a multi-course meal and more. The cost is $65 per person.

Registration is required.

For details, call (804) 748-1131 or visit www.henricus.org.

Holiday Candlelight Tours at Poplar Forest | Ongoing Holiday candlelight tours together with period music, cooking demonstrations, special activities for children and more will be held at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, 1542 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest.

The tours are set for Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17, at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., and Dec. 15, 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

For details, call (434) 534-8120.

Meet ‘Father Christmas’ at Poplar Forest | Dec. 17 A day filled with holiday merriment and a chance to meet “Father Christmas” is set for Dec. 17, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, 1542 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest.

Guests also can watch hearth cooking demonstrations, participate in a variety of children’s craft activities and more.

For details, visit poplarforest.org or call (434) 525-1806.

Driedels and Dinner at Brith Achim | Dec. 18 A Dreidels and Dinner Chanukah Celebration will be held Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m., at Congregation Brith Achim, 314 South Blvd., Petersburg.

The free event celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights will include Latkes and other Chanukah food, music, games and more. It is open to the community.

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Find the words and phrases related to the holiday season.

The answers in the puzzle are forward, backward, vertical, horizontal and diagonal.

Angels Candles Candy Canes Cards Celebrate Chimney Comet Cookies Cranberry sauce Dancer Decoration Donner Elf Fir Fireplace Fruitcake Goodwill Greetings Holly

Icicles Lights Merry Mistletoe New Year Noel North Pole Party Poinsettia Presents Reindeer Santa Claus Scrooge Season Sled Sleigh Bells Star Tidings Tinsel Toys Tradition Turkey

For this week’s answers, visit www.ftleetraveller.com/ community_life/puzzle/.

www.fortleetraveller.com | December 8, 2016 | Traveller | 15

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• For active-duty, retired military, their eligible family members and active or retired civil service employees. If you are retired military or retired DOD civilian, include current employer and work phone number on the application.

• Only 1 ad per week, 3 lines maximum • Renewals, corrections and cancellations cannot be taken by phone and must be resubmitted • Illegible, too long or otherwise do not conform to instructions will not be published and must be resubmitted for the next issue • Automotive ads must begin with make, model and year • Real estate ads must begin with name of city, neighborhood and must be your primary residence.

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• Free ads cannot be of a commercial nature (i. e., business opportunities, help wanted, etc) and must be personal property of the eligible member.

Should not represent a sustained income or business or listed through agents or representatives.

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by TheShelterPetProject.org

16 | Traveller | December 8, 2016 | www.fortleetraveller.com

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