On April 20, a 22-year-old man with a history of violence walked into a bookstore in Wichita Falls, Texas, and started shooting. He wounded four women, then drove to a bar and killed an employee outside before he drove home and took his own life.
This tragedy sounds like so many we hear about on the news each and every night. We’ve almost become desensitized to the horror and emotional aftermath, but this type of violence is something we cannot ignore – especially this event in Wichita Falls. You see, this time it wasn’t just a news headline. It was an event that touched our Air Force family directly.
Read On
ttp://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Lorenz0510.htm
Friday, May 14, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
A different angle on coaching
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
5/12/2010 - COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AFNS) -- As a basketball coach, 1st Lt. Dan Taylor has used a number of techniques to help his teams play better. Speed drills, sprints and fundamentals work are some of the usual tools he uses to help players reach their potential. However, coaching basketball at the Warrior Games here required this communications officer to change his perspective before he could even begin.
Lieutenant Taylor is one of the Air Force coaches helping disabled servicemembers participate in the first Warrior Games that run May 10 through May 14.
Warrior Games athletes play wheelchair basketball. In addition to the obvious difficulty of playing basketball in a seated position, the wounded players have injuries that range from paraplegia to post-traumatic stress disorder.
"The whole (coaching) thing is different," Lieutenant Taylor said. "Everyone's different; different injuries, different skills, so I have to take that into account."
Though the mechanics of the game and the rules may be different, there are many things that remain the same for this coach who played basketball both at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School and during his education at the Academy.
"At its heart, it's the same game," he said. "Guys are still competitive, guys still want to win and they still want to learn. A lot of them have never played wheelchair basketball before. Some have fresh injuries. Those are the types of guys you work just the fundamentals with. That's the same everywhere in basketball."
As a coach, Lieutenant Taylor is used to motivating people. He said with this team, he's working with players who need no motivation--a fact they show daily by beating the odds in recovering from their injuries.
"They are very easy to coach," he said. "Just seeing these guys and knowing they've made these sacrifices, to go out there and do what they did on the battlefield and to come here and still want to compete, I'm really humbled. You can't take anything for granted."
Lieutenant Taylor is a hands-on coach. He's the kind of guy who runs with his players, shoots with his players and drills with his players. At the Warrior Games, his hands-on approach means strapping himself into a wheelchair.
"I told myself I was going to stay in the chair and practice with them the whole time," he said. "I wanted to get a little perspective. It's definitely difficult. I thought it was easier than it was, but I needed to feel what they feel."
Basketball Coach Adapts Techniques for Warrior Games
By Air Force Staff Sgt. J. Paul Croxon
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
May 12, 2010 - As a basketball coach, Air Force 1st Lt. Dan Taylor has used a number of techniques to help his teams play better. Speed drills, sprints and fundamentals work are routine tools he uses to help players reach their potential. However, coaching basketball at the Warrior Games required this communication officer to change his perspective before he could even begin.
Warrior Games athletes play wheelchair basketball, among other sports. In addition to the obvious difficulty of playing basketball in a seated position, the players have injuries that range from paraplegia to post-traumatic stress disorder.
"The whole [coaching] thing is different," Taylor said. "Everyone's different -- different injuries, different skills -- so I have to take that into account."
Though the mechanics of the game and the rules may be different, many things remain the same for this coach, who played basketball at the Air Force Academy Preparatory School and during his education at the academy.
"At its heart, it's the same game," Taylor said. "Guys are still competitive, guys still want to win, and they still want to learn. A lot of them have never played wheelchair basketball before. Some have fresh injuries. Those are the types of guys you work just the fundamentals with. That's the same everywhere in basketball."
As a coach, Taylor is used to motivating people. But the players on the Air Force's Warrior Games team need no motivation, Taylor said. His players, he said, routinely maintain can-do attitudes and perseverance as part of beating the odds in recovering from their injuries.
"They are very easy to coach," Taylor said. "Just seeing these guys and knowing they've made these sacrifices, to go out there and do what they did on the battlefield and to come here and still want to compete, I'm really humbled. You can't take anything for granted."
Taylor is a hands-on coach. He's the kind of guy who runs with his players, shoots with his players and drills with his players. At the Warrior Games, his hands-on approach means strapping himself into a wheelchair.
"I told myself I was going to stay in the chair and practice with them the whole time," he said. "I wanted to get a little perspective. It's definitely difficult. I thought it was easier than it was, but I needed to feel what they feel."
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
May 12, 2010 - As a basketball coach, Air Force 1st Lt. Dan Taylor has used a number of techniques to help his teams play better. Speed drills, sprints and fundamentals work are routine tools he uses to help players reach their potential. However, coaching basketball at the Warrior Games required this communication officer to change his perspective before he could even begin.
Warrior Games athletes play wheelchair basketball, among other sports. In addition to the obvious difficulty of playing basketball in a seated position, the players have injuries that range from paraplegia to post-traumatic stress disorder.
"The whole [coaching] thing is different," Taylor said. "Everyone's different -- different injuries, different skills -- so I have to take that into account."
Though the mechanics of the game and the rules may be different, many things remain the same for this coach, who played basketball at the Air Force Academy Preparatory School and during his education at the academy.
"At its heart, it's the same game," Taylor said. "Guys are still competitive, guys still want to win, and they still want to learn. A lot of them have never played wheelchair basketball before. Some have fresh injuries. Those are the types of guys you work just the fundamentals with. That's the same everywhere in basketball."
As a coach, Taylor is used to motivating people. But the players on the Air Force's Warrior Games team need no motivation, Taylor said. His players, he said, routinely maintain can-do attitudes and perseverance as part of beating the odds in recovering from their injuries.
"They are very easy to coach," Taylor said. "Just seeing these guys and knowing they've made these sacrifices, to go out there and do what they did on the battlefield and to come here and still want to compete, I'm really humbled. You can't take anything for granted."
Taylor is a hands-on coach. He's the kind of guy who runs with his players, shoots with his players and drills with his players. At the Warrior Games, his hands-on approach means strapping himself into a wheelchair.
"I told myself I was going to stay in the chair and practice with them the whole time," he said. "I wanted to get a little perspective. It's definitely difficult. I thought it was easier than it was, but I needed to feel what they feel."
Madison Federal Agency Association recognizes Wisconsin National Guard for outstanding public service
Two teams of Wisconsin National Guard members totaling 18 people, responsible for providing vital services to 10,000 Guard members statewide, were recognized by the Greater Madison Federal Agency Association during a May 6 ceremony at Madison's Edgewater Hotel.
The Wisconsin Army National Guard's Health Systems Services Branch, of the Personnel Directorate, was recognized for exemplary customer service to 7,800 Soldiers in the state. The 15-person team ensures medical certifications are up to date for each medical professional within the force and manages services for medical and dental appointment coordination, TriCare insurance support, wounded warrior transition care and medical record maintenance for each Soldier.
Health Systems Services Branch Chief Lt. Col. Leah Moore, with the Wisconsin Army National Guard state leadership, recognized HSS as "deserving of the nomination."
"I'm extremely proud of the [HSS team] - I knew they would do a good job," Moore said. "I think it's terrific that the state leadership recognized them and that they exceeded every expectation. Whether we're [supporting] one Soldier or 100, we work just as hard, every day. It's a nice pat on the back today, but tomorrow we will get [back] to work and do it again."
Maj. Rebecca Giese, an HSS case manager who served as the officer-in-charge while Moore was deployed, accepted the award for the team.
"We were nominated because we put in a lot of work for the [32nd] Brigade deployment," Giese said. "Successfully getting 3,200 Soldiers out the door was very rewarding for us - we had a lot of support from the leadership and it went really smooth despite a lot of challenges."
Personnel assigned to Wisconsin Air National Guard Headquarters received the "Administrative Employee of the Year" award for their direct contribution to mission readiness, improved recruiting efforts, mentorship of traditional guard members and a strong ethic of community service.
Col. Murry Mitten, director of staff, and Lt. Col. Brian Buhler, military personnel management officer - both for the Air National Guard - recommended the three-member team for the award because of the hard work and dedication they provide at the unit level.
"They are the ones that everyone call to get their questions answered," Buhler said. "Their day-to- day job is pretty tough - they take care of the 2,200 men and women of the Wisconsin Air National Guard. These three folks who won the award work long hours to make everything happen and do it with a positive attitude."
Senior Master Sgt. Connie Bacik, a recruiting and retention superintendant, accepted the award for the team and said, "We've done a fantastic job motivating our recruiters and retainers to bring quality people into the Air National Guard and maintain a high level of strength to complete mission requirements.
"It feels great to win the award," she added. "[The GMFAA] is a great organization and it's a [privilege] to be recognized among other federal agencies."
The Wisconsin Army National Guard's Health Systems Services Branch, of the Personnel Directorate, was recognized for exemplary customer service to 7,800 Soldiers in the state. The 15-person team ensures medical certifications are up to date for each medical professional within the force and manages services for medical and dental appointment coordination, TriCare insurance support, wounded warrior transition care and medical record maintenance for each Soldier.
Health Systems Services Branch Chief Lt. Col. Leah Moore, with the Wisconsin Army National Guard state leadership, recognized HSS as "deserving of the nomination."
"I'm extremely proud of the [HSS team] - I knew they would do a good job," Moore said. "I think it's terrific that the state leadership recognized them and that they exceeded every expectation. Whether we're [supporting] one Soldier or 100, we work just as hard, every day. It's a nice pat on the back today, but tomorrow we will get [back] to work and do it again."
Maj. Rebecca Giese, an HSS case manager who served as the officer-in-charge while Moore was deployed, accepted the award for the team.
"We were nominated because we put in a lot of work for the [32nd] Brigade deployment," Giese said. "Successfully getting 3,200 Soldiers out the door was very rewarding for us - we had a lot of support from the leadership and it went really smooth despite a lot of challenges."
Personnel assigned to Wisconsin Air National Guard Headquarters received the "Administrative Employee of the Year" award for their direct contribution to mission readiness, improved recruiting efforts, mentorship of traditional guard members and a strong ethic of community service.
Col. Murry Mitten, director of staff, and Lt. Col. Brian Buhler, military personnel management officer - both for the Air National Guard - recommended the three-member team for the award because of the hard work and dedication they provide at the unit level.
"They are the ones that everyone call to get their questions answered," Buhler said. "Their day-to- day job is pretty tough - they take care of the 2,200 men and women of the Wisconsin Air National Guard. These three folks who won the award work long hours to make everything happen and do it with a positive attitude."
Senior Master Sgt. Connie Bacik, a recruiting and retention superintendant, accepted the award for the team and said, "We've done a fantastic job motivating our recruiters and retainers to bring quality people into the Air National Guard and maintain a high level of strength to complete mission requirements.
"It feels great to win the award," she added. "[The GMFAA] is a great organization and it's a [privilege] to be recognized among other federal agencies."
Wisconsin Soldier presented national leadership award at Pentagon
Date: May 12, 2010
By Sgt. Darron Salzer
National Guard Bureau
Wisconsin National Guard Capt. Bill Barthen was one of seven Army National Guard officers presented with the MacArthur Leadership Award from the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Foundation during a ceremony at the Pentagon May 7.
Barthen, a Waukesha native, is a training officer with the 132nd Brigade Support Battalion in Portage. At the time of his nomination, he was serving as the executive officer for the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team rear detachment, where he was responsible for personnel, operations and training, logistics and supply issues at the brigade level. He also coordinated with battalion-level officers and non-commissioned officers concerning those issues. He recently commanded Company E, 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation.
Barthen has served more than 16 years in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, and has deployed twice in the global war on terror. He volunteered to deploy with the Louisiana Army National Guard from August 2004 to October 2005, where he served on a Military Transition Team that trained the Iraqi Army in Baghdad. Barthen deployed again, this time as an executive officer with Troop E, 105th Cavalry, Wisconsin Army National Guard, to conduct convoy security missions out of Logistical Support Area Anaconda near Baghdad from June 2007 to June 2008.
The MacArthur Award recognizes company-grade officers like Barthen who demonstrate the ideals for which MacArthur stood - duty, honor, country. Barthen joins three recent Wisconsin Guard officers - Capt. Douglas Kolb, 2007; Capt. Josephine (Jerome) Daniels, 2006; and Capt. Scott Southworth, 2005 - who have earned the award. Each year, only seven National Guard Soldiers are chosen for the national honor, along with seven from the Army Reserve and 14 from the Active Army.
"It's awfully humbling to receive this award," Barthen said. "Just being nominated was huge in and of itself, and I was quite shocked to learn I was the nominee for the state of Wisconsin."
Leadership is what it will take to get the Army through the challenges of the 21st century, Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Army chief of staff, said during the ceremony.
"The one thing that rings clear to us is that it's going to take leadership and leaders of character and competence to chart our way through the challenges [ahead]," he said. "All of these award winners have demonstrated the tremendous quality that we're privileged to have in our Army today." Guard award recipients indicated they stuck to the basics, and didn't believe they had done anything above and beyond what the Army asked of them.
"The basic Army values and warrior ethos that you learn at basic training and [advanced individual training] is what makes [a good leader]," Barthen said. "It sounds simple, but it's very difficult to live these values - incorporate them into who you are, and then exude that amongst your Soldiers, admit your faults when wrong, and always do what's right and move forward." Casey told the awardees that they "embody the spirit that our country will need to lead it forward in the decades ahead.
"Our nation can continue to be proud that we can bring forward generation after generation of Americans who believe so strongly in the values and ideals that this country stands for," Casey continued.
Barthen said he is not trying to be the best leader. "I'm just trying to do what's right by my Soldiers all the time," he said. "Apparently, in the end, they appreciate that and the leadership appreciates that I do that, too."
"Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be," MacArthur told cadets at the U.S. Military Academy in 1962. "They are your rallying points - to build courage when courage seems to fail, to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith, to create hope when hope becomes forlorn."
By Sgt. Darron Salzer
National Guard Bureau
Wisconsin National Guard Capt. Bill Barthen was one of seven Army National Guard officers presented with the MacArthur Leadership Award from the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Foundation during a ceremony at the Pentagon May 7.
Barthen, a Waukesha native, is a training officer with the 132nd Brigade Support Battalion in Portage. At the time of his nomination, he was serving as the executive officer for the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team rear detachment, where he was responsible for personnel, operations and training, logistics and supply issues at the brigade level. He also coordinated with battalion-level officers and non-commissioned officers concerning those issues. He recently commanded Company E, 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation.
Barthen has served more than 16 years in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, and has deployed twice in the global war on terror. He volunteered to deploy with the Louisiana Army National Guard from August 2004 to October 2005, where he served on a Military Transition Team that trained the Iraqi Army in Baghdad. Barthen deployed again, this time as an executive officer with Troop E, 105th Cavalry, Wisconsin Army National Guard, to conduct convoy security missions out of Logistical Support Area Anaconda near Baghdad from June 2007 to June 2008.
The MacArthur Award recognizes company-grade officers like Barthen who demonstrate the ideals for which MacArthur stood - duty, honor, country. Barthen joins three recent Wisconsin Guard officers - Capt. Douglas Kolb, 2007; Capt. Josephine (Jerome) Daniels, 2006; and Capt. Scott Southworth, 2005 - who have earned the award. Each year, only seven National Guard Soldiers are chosen for the national honor, along with seven from the Army Reserve and 14 from the Active Army.
"It's awfully humbling to receive this award," Barthen said. "Just being nominated was huge in and of itself, and I was quite shocked to learn I was the nominee for the state of Wisconsin."
Leadership is what it will take to get the Army through the challenges of the 21st century, Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Army chief of staff, said during the ceremony.
"The one thing that rings clear to us is that it's going to take leadership and leaders of character and competence to chart our way through the challenges [ahead]," he said. "All of these award winners have demonstrated the tremendous quality that we're privileged to have in our Army today." Guard award recipients indicated they stuck to the basics, and didn't believe they had done anything above and beyond what the Army asked of them.
"The basic Army values and warrior ethos that you learn at basic training and [advanced individual training] is what makes [a good leader]," Barthen said. "It sounds simple, but it's very difficult to live these values - incorporate them into who you are, and then exude that amongst your Soldiers, admit your faults when wrong, and always do what's right and move forward." Casey told the awardees that they "embody the spirit that our country will need to lead it forward in the decades ahead.
"Our nation can continue to be proud that we can bring forward generation after generation of Americans who believe so strongly in the values and ideals that this country stands for," Casey continued.
Barthen said he is not trying to be the best leader. "I'm just trying to do what's right by my Soldiers all the time," he said. "Apparently, in the end, they appreciate that and the leadership appreciates that I do that, too."
"Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be," MacArthur told cadets at the U.S. Military Academy in 1962. "They are your rallying points - to build courage when courage seems to fail, to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith, to create hope when hope becomes forlorn."
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Cheyney University Honors NAVSUP With Outreach Award
By Tim Christmann, Naval Supply Systems Command Public Affairs
MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) -- Cheyney University presented Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) with an Outreach Award during commencement ceremonies May 8.
Capt. Robert Gilbeau, deputy commander for aviation at NAVSUP's Naval Inventory Control Point, in Philadelphia, Pa., accepted the honor on behalf of Rear Adm. Mike Lyden, NAVSUP commander, in front of an audience of more than 2,000 people, including 342 graduates.
The university presented the award to recognize NAVSUP for their recruiting efforts and hiring 14 Cheyney graduates over the past seven years.
The command's hiring of the graduates is a testament to Cheyney University and to NAVSUP's commitment to a diverse workforce, which contributes to the strength of our great nation, said Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital, university president.
NAVSUP's Commander's Guidance includes a Strategic Focus Area called "Strategy for Our People," which promotes a mission-focused, highly skilled, and diverse workforce.
"It is a great honor to receive this award," said Lyden. "The NAVSUP workforce is a talented, dedicated cadre of professionals who have chosen a lifestyle of service. The challenge is not just ensuring we have the right workforce for today's needs, but also for tomorrow's, by anticipating future requirements and preparing to meet them with new hires from our superb partners such as Cheyney University."
NAVSUP's primary mission is to provide U.S. naval forces with quality supplies and services. With headquarters in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and employing a diverse, worldwide workforce of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel, NAVSUP oversees logistics programs in the areas of supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, and security assistance. In addition, NAVSUP is responsible for quality of life issues for our naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods.
MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) -- Cheyney University presented Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) with an Outreach Award during commencement ceremonies May 8.
Capt. Robert Gilbeau, deputy commander for aviation at NAVSUP's Naval Inventory Control Point, in Philadelphia, Pa., accepted the honor on behalf of Rear Adm. Mike Lyden, NAVSUP commander, in front of an audience of more than 2,000 people, including 342 graduates.
The university presented the award to recognize NAVSUP for their recruiting efforts and hiring 14 Cheyney graduates over the past seven years.
The command's hiring of the graduates is a testament to Cheyney University and to NAVSUP's commitment to a diverse workforce, which contributes to the strength of our great nation, said Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital, university president.
NAVSUP's Commander's Guidance includes a Strategic Focus Area called "Strategy for Our People," which promotes a mission-focused, highly skilled, and diverse workforce.
"It is a great honor to receive this award," said Lyden. "The NAVSUP workforce is a talented, dedicated cadre of professionals who have chosen a lifestyle of service. The challenge is not just ensuring we have the right workforce for today's needs, but also for tomorrow's, by anticipating future requirements and preparing to meet them with new hires from our superb partners such as Cheyney University."
NAVSUP's primary mission is to provide U.S. naval forces with quality supplies and services. With headquarters in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and employing a diverse, worldwide workforce of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel, NAVSUP oversees logistics programs in the areas of supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, and security assistance. In addition, NAVSUP is responsible for quality of life issues for our naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods.
2010 Female Physician Leader Award: Call for Nominations
Posted by: Maureen O. Viall
MHS Chief Human Capital Officer
As we look forward to summer, it's time to begin thinking about the "Building Stronger Female Physician Leaders in the MHS" award and your nominees for that award. As with last year, nominees should be those female physicians who have made significant contributions to the practice of medicine and/or who have served as exemplary role models for other female physicians. The award will be given at the MHS Conference in January 2011.
The deadline for award submission to Chief Human Capital Office is Oct. 30, 2010. The services will collect all nominations and vet them through their chain before they are forwarded to the award POC. The services will set their own internal suspense but awards will not be accepted after midnight on Oct. 30, 2010. Then, a panel made up of a senior female physician leader for each service, an OSD/HA representative and last years' winners will meet in November, screen packages and select the winners.
There will be two main categories of award winners: one junior (03-05) winner from each service and one overall MHS-wide senior (06) winner.
The criteria and nomination forms can be found at the MHS Office of Human Capital website: Click here. Please use strict adherence to the nomination form. Failure to follow the form may result in a lower score for your nominee.
MHS Chief Human Capital Officer
As we look forward to summer, it's time to begin thinking about the "Building Stronger Female Physician Leaders in the MHS" award and your nominees for that award. As with last year, nominees should be those female physicians who have made significant contributions to the practice of medicine and/or who have served as exemplary role models for other female physicians. The award will be given at the MHS Conference in January 2011.
The deadline for award submission to Chief Human Capital Office is Oct. 30, 2010. The services will collect all nominations and vet them through their chain before they are forwarded to the award POC. The services will set their own internal suspense but awards will not be accepted after midnight on Oct. 30, 2010. Then, a panel made up of a senior female physician leader for each service, an OSD/HA representative and last years' winners will meet in November, screen packages and select the winners.
There will be two main categories of award winners: one junior (03-05) winner from each service and one overall MHS-wide senior (06) winner.
The criteria and nomination forms can be found at the MHS Office of Human Capital website: Click here. Please use strict adherence to the nomination form. Failure to follow the form may result in a lower score for your nominee.
Senior Enlisted Leader Summit participants discuss Airmen's global influence
by Tech. Sgt. Brannen Parrish
Air University Public Affairs
5/11/2010 - MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AFNS) -- More than 370 senior enlisted leaders from the Air Force, joint and coalition community gathered for the Senior Enlisted Leader Summit to focus on strategic enlisted issues the first week of May here.
The theme of this year's summit, "Deliberately Developing Airmen for Global Response," included 30 presentations from representatives of combatant and unified commands, and by Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz.
Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Roy said building partnerships with the international community, one of the main focuses of the summit, will benefit Airmen at all levels.
"As we look at deliberately developing Airmen of the future, what is it that they need to be exposed to?" Chief Roy said. "In our view, they need to be exposed to other members of other nation's militaries."
Chief Roy said having senior enlisted leaders from the Air Force and international community together in the same auditorium provided a unique opportunity for learning and sharing.
"We were able to bring all the senior enlisted leaders from around the world, together and give them an update of what's going on around the world and share ideas," Chief Roy said. "Having those partner nations here is all about building relationships. When we desire access to a location, having those relationships helps foster that access."
Royal Australian Air Force Warrant Officer Jason Van Rysbergen said the summit allowed him to network with other senior enlisted leaders and provided him with a new perspective of the U.S. Air Force.
"I was extremely impressed by how empowered the chief master sergeants are, and how respected and revered they are by the senior commanders," he said. "It seems that every commander knows every chief in the room. The summit allowed me to expand my spider's web of networks and form relationships, and friendships that I can take with me."
Chief Roy said he hopes all of the attendees come away with a shared sense of learning and understanding.
"I hope that what they get out of this is that we are here to provide help and learn from one another," Chief Roy said.
Air University Public Affairs
5/11/2010 - MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AFNS) -- More than 370 senior enlisted leaders from the Air Force, joint and coalition community gathered for the Senior Enlisted Leader Summit to focus on strategic enlisted issues the first week of May here.
The theme of this year's summit, "Deliberately Developing Airmen for Global Response," included 30 presentations from representatives of combatant and unified commands, and by Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz.
Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Roy said building partnerships with the international community, one of the main focuses of the summit, will benefit Airmen at all levels.
"As we look at deliberately developing Airmen of the future, what is it that they need to be exposed to?" Chief Roy said. "In our view, they need to be exposed to other members of other nation's militaries."
Chief Roy said having senior enlisted leaders from the Air Force and international community together in the same auditorium provided a unique opportunity for learning and sharing.
"We were able to bring all the senior enlisted leaders from around the world, together and give them an update of what's going on around the world and share ideas," Chief Roy said. "Having those partner nations here is all about building relationships. When we desire access to a location, having those relationships helps foster that access."
Royal Australian Air Force Warrant Officer Jason Van Rysbergen said the summit allowed him to network with other senior enlisted leaders and provided him with a new perspective of the U.S. Air Force.
"I was extremely impressed by how empowered the chief master sergeants are, and how respected and revered they are by the senior commanders," he said. "It seems that every commander knows every chief in the room. The summit allowed me to expand my spider's web of networks and form relationships, and friendships that I can take with me."
Chief Roy said he hopes all of the attendees come away with a shared sense of learning and understanding.
"I hope that what they get out of this is that we are here to provide help and learn from one another," Chief Roy said.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Navy to Receive National Award for Work-Life Balance Programs
By Lt. j.g. Laura Stegherr, Diversity Directorate Public Affairs
May 10, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy's Task Force Life/Work (TFLW) initiatives will be recognized May 18 by the Association for Work Life Progress (AWLP) through the organization's Work-Life Innovative Excellence Award.
Capt. Ken Barrett, director of the Navy Diversity Directorate and TFLW, will accept the award at the 2010 Total Rewards Conference, sponsored by WorldatWork, AWLP's parent company, in Dallas.
As the highest honor offered by AWLP, the Work-Life innovative Excellence Award was created in 1996 to showcase programs and policies that demonstrate excellence in enhancing and promoting work-life effectiveness while achieving organizational goals. Past recipients include Pepsi Bottling Group, Ernst & Young, Verizon Wireless and IBM. Competitors for the award are evaluated on their program's responsiveness to employees' needs, innovation in overcoming barriers to implementation, and measurable benefits to the well-being of employees.
The Navy's TFLW program began in 2007 to address the professional and personal development needs of Sailors and to enhance healthy life/work balance. Since its inception, several TFLW initiatives have been launched, including greatly expanded telework programs, flexible work schedules, paternity and adoptive leave, and one year deferment of sea duty for new mothers. The Navy's TFLW and quality of life programs have previously been awarded by both the Families and Work Institute and the Telework Exchange.
May 10, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy's Task Force Life/Work (TFLW) initiatives will be recognized May 18 by the Association for Work Life Progress (AWLP) through the organization's Work-Life Innovative Excellence Award.
Capt. Ken Barrett, director of the Navy Diversity Directorate and TFLW, will accept the award at the 2010 Total Rewards Conference, sponsored by WorldatWork, AWLP's parent company, in Dallas.
As the highest honor offered by AWLP, the Work-Life innovative Excellence Award was created in 1996 to showcase programs and policies that demonstrate excellence in enhancing and promoting work-life effectiveness while achieving organizational goals. Past recipients include Pepsi Bottling Group, Ernst & Young, Verizon Wireless and IBM. Competitors for the award are evaluated on their program's responsiveness to employees' needs, innovation in overcoming barriers to implementation, and measurable benefits to the well-being of employees.
The Navy's TFLW program began in 2007 to address the professional and personal development needs of Sailors and to enhance healthy life/work balance. Since its inception, several TFLW initiatives have been launched, including greatly expanded telework programs, flexible work schedules, paternity and adoptive leave, and one year deferment of sea duty for new mothers. The Navy's TFLW and quality of life programs have previously been awarded by both the Families and Work Institute and the Telework Exchange.
National Guard Challenge Academy plans Open House in Milwaukee
May 10, 2010 - Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy representatives will conduct an open house and informational session Monday, May 17 for applicants to the academy's next class, which begins July 22. The event will be held at the National Guard armory, 4108 N. Richards Street, Milwaukee, from 3 to 7 p.m.
From 3 to 5 p.m. Challenge Academy staff members, cadets, and parents of cadets will be available to speak with teens and parents who have an interest in the academy and to assist them with the application process. Educators, health and social services personnel, and juvenile justice officers are also welcome to visit at that time. A presentation by Academy Directors for potential candidates will begin at 5:30 p.m.
The tuition-free Challenge Academy offers "at-risk" youths the opportunity to change the direction of their lives. Challenge Academy cadets participate in the academy's eight core components: academic instruction leading to a Wisconsin High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED); job skills training; physical fitness; health, hygiene and nutrition; leadership; lifecoping skills; responsible citizenship; and service to community.
The program is for male and female applicants at least 16 years, 9 months, but not yet 19 years old, who have dropped out of high school or due to truancy, have fallen more than one year behind in credits. Applicants must not be currently charged with or previously convicted of a felony and must not be on adult parole or probation. Cadets attend voluntarily; the academy is not open to placement by court order.
For further information, contact the Challenge Academy toll free at 1-866-968-8422 or visit the academy's Web site at www.challengeacademy.org.
From 3 to 5 p.m. Challenge Academy staff members, cadets, and parents of cadets will be available to speak with teens and parents who have an interest in the academy and to assist them with the application process. Educators, health and social services personnel, and juvenile justice officers are also welcome to visit at that time. A presentation by Academy Directors for potential candidates will begin at 5:30 p.m.
The tuition-free Challenge Academy offers "at-risk" youths the opportunity to change the direction of their lives. Challenge Academy cadets participate in the academy's eight core components: academic instruction leading to a Wisconsin High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED); job skills training; physical fitness; health, hygiene and nutrition; leadership; lifecoping skills; responsible citizenship; and service to community.
The program is for male and female applicants at least 16 years, 9 months, but not yet 19 years old, who have dropped out of high school or due to truancy, have fallen more than one year behind in credits. Applicants must not be currently charged with or previously convicted of a felony and must not be on adult parole or probation. Cadets attend voluntarily; the academy is not open to placement by court order.
For further information, contact the Challenge Academy toll free at 1-866-968-8422 or visit the academy's Web site at www.challengeacademy.org.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
Commander, Navy Region Northwest Recognizes Friends of the Navy
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest
May 9, 2010 - EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Community members from Puget Sound were recognized for their contributions to Navy installations and personnel in the area at the 2010 Commander, Navy Region Northwest (CNRNW) Friends of the Navy and Olympic Brass Choir Concert on Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett May 6.
Members of the Navy League of the United States, city officials, former Navy service members, representatives of Navy installation partners, business owners and volunteers were among the 30 people recognized. Rear Adm. James Symonds, commander, NRNW, said those being recognized were as varied as their contributions, and their efforts all left an indelible impression on those serving in the Northwest improving quality of life and letting them know their service is appreciated.
"Today is a very special day for the Navy in the Northwest," said Symonds. "We do this to recognize and thank the many people who help us to do what we do best and that is to deploy ready forces forward to defend our country and make the world a better place. The U.S. Navy is truly a global force for good, and the people we are recognizing today are an enabling force for good; volunteers who gladly give of themselves in order to keep the Navy vibrant and viable in the Northwest and, by extension, throughout the Pacific and Indian Ocean theaters. Moreover, every day you do honor to the service of our Sailors and families."
"A lot of these people do this not for business purposes, not for financial purposes, they do it because they believe and want to give back," said Capt. Mark Olson, Naval Base Kitsap commanding officer.
"These are some of the heart and soul (members) of the community, and it's important that we tell them that we do recognize their contributions. It's also important for me to be here to meet with people from the east side of the sound supporting [NAVSTA] Whidbey Island and [NAVSTA] Everett."
Capt. Thomas Mascolo, NAVSTA Everett commanding officer, and Capt. Gerral David, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island commanding officer are scheduled to transfer this summer, and Symonds is scheduled to soon retire. With the upcoming departure of these members of Navy leadership in the Northwest, they said it was important to recognize these "friends" impact on their time here.
Of the 18 recipients who received their appreciation plaques from Symonds at the event, many said that they appreciated the recognition, but would have shown the same support even without it.
"My passion comes from my love of country and my deep admiration for these young men and women; for the sacrifices that they give every day so that we can enjoy the freedom that we so cherish," said Kathy Gambill past president of the Navy League of the United States Everett Council. "I just feel that everyone should want to contribute to humanity and to give back. That's why we're here. It's not about what we can get; it's about what we can give. These young men and women do such an amazing job, I'm in awe of their talent, their desire, their devotion and it's always heartfelt when you see someone that loves their country so much they would give their life. It's humbling, it's not about my contributions, it's about what they do every day; I don't know if I could do it. It's a difficult job, but I feel very blessed to have been given this opportunity to serve my country."
"If we don't [preserve history] now it will be lost, including all of the records of heroism of the flight crews who trained here from back in World War II up to now," said Win Stites, president of the PBY Memorial Foundation in Oak Harbor, who was recognized for his efforts in preserving the history of naval aviation with the foundation's command display on the NAS Whidbey Island Seaplane Base. "We have to keep this history alive because it's not in the history books. It's a memory of those who have gone before us."
The general consensus by those in attendance was that the military and civilian communities in the region show great support to each other and answer each other's calls for assistance.
"Naval Base Kitsap influences eight different local communities going all the way up to Poulsbo down to Gig Harbor and going out to the town of Shelton," said Olson. "We have a working, social and neighborly relationship with each one of them to a varying degree. In every case we have great community involvement, we have great community activism and every one of these towns has great support for the military."
"I think it's a very good, strong relationship. What's amazing is that probably 98 percent of our volunteers for everything in Oak Harbor are the military," said Beth Munns, of the Oak Harbor City Council and a past president of the Navy League of the United States, Oak Harbor Council, who was recognized for her efforts in both entities as well as assisting to organize an annual military appreciation picnic. "The city owes a huge thanks to that, but the city also tries to be attuned to the needs of the base and what's going on there. I think it's a give-and-give relationship on both sides."
May 9, 2010 - EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Community members from Puget Sound were recognized for their contributions to Navy installations and personnel in the area at the 2010 Commander, Navy Region Northwest (CNRNW) Friends of the Navy and Olympic Brass Choir Concert on Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett May 6.
Members of the Navy League of the United States, city officials, former Navy service members, representatives of Navy installation partners, business owners and volunteers were among the 30 people recognized. Rear Adm. James Symonds, commander, NRNW, said those being recognized were as varied as their contributions, and their efforts all left an indelible impression on those serving in the Northwest improving quality of life and letting them know their service is appreciated.
"Today is a very special day for the Navy in the Northwest," said Symonds. "We do this to recognize and thank the many people who help us to do what we do best and that is to deploy ready forces forward to defend our country and make the world a better place. The U.S. Navy is truly a global force for good, and the people we are recognizing today are an enabling force for good; volunteers who gladly give of themselves in order to keep the Navy vibrant and viable in the Northwest and, by extension, throughout the Pacific and Indian Ocean theaters. Moreover, every day you do honor to the service of our Sailors and families."
"A lot of these people do this not for business purposes, not for financial purposes, they do it because they believe and want to give back," said Capt. Mark Olson, Naval Base Kitsap commanding officer.
"These are some of the heart and soul (members) of the community, and it's important that we tell them that we do recognize their contributions. It's also important for me to be here to meet with people from the east side of the sound supporting [NAVSTA] Whidbey Island and [NAVSTA] Everett."
Capt. Thomas Mascolo, NAVSTA Everett commanding officer, and Capt. Gerral David, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island commanding officer are scheduled to transfer this summer, and Symonds is scheduled to soon retire. With the upcoming departure of these members of Navy leadership in the Northwest, they said it was important to recognize these "friends" impact on their time here.
Of the 18 recipients who received their appreciation plaques from Symonds at the event, many said that they appreciated the recognition, but would have shown the same support even without it.
"My passion comes from my love of country and my deep admiration for these young men and women; for the sacrifices that they give every day so that we can enjoy the freedom that we so cherish," said Kathy Gambill past president of the Navy League of the United States Everett Council. "I just feel that everyone should want to contribute to humanity and to give back. That's why we're here. It's not about what we can get; it's about what we can give. These young men and women do such an amazing job, I'm in awe of their talent, their desire, their devotion and it's always heartfelt when you see someone that loves their country so much they would give their life. It's humbling, it's not about my contributions, it's about what they do every day; I don't know if I could do it. It's a difficult job, but I feel very blessed to have been given this opportunity to serve my country."
"If we don't [preserve history] now it will be lost, including all of the records of heroism of the flight crews who trained here from back in World War II up to now," said Win Stites, president of the PBY Memorial Foundation in Oak Harbor, who was recognized for his efforts in preserving the history of naval aviation with the foundation's command display on the NAS Whidbey Island Seaplane Base. "We have to keep this history alive because it's not in the history books. It's a memory of those who have gone before us."
The general consensus by those in attendance was that the military and civilian communities in the region show great support to each other and answer each other's calls for assistance.
"Naval Base Kitsap influences eight different local communities going all the way up to Poulsbo down to Gig Harbor and going out to the town of Shelton," said Olson. "We have a working, social and neighborly relationship with each one of them to a varying degree. In every case we have great community involvement, we have great community activism and every one of these towns has great support for the military."
"I think it's a very good, strong relationship. What's amazing is that probably 98 percent of our volunteers for everything in Oak Harbor are the military," said Beth Munns, of the Oak Harbor City Council and a past president of the Navy League of the United States, Oak Harbor Council, who was recognized for her efforts in both entities as well as assisting to organize an annual military appreciation picnic. "The city owes a huge thanks to that, but the city also tries to be attuned to the needs of the base and what's going on there. I think it's a give-and-give relationship on both sides."
Friday, May 07, 2010
Wisconsin Guard top finisher in Army Communities of Excellence
May 7, 2010 - The Wisconsin Army National Guard continues its record of top finishes in the Army Communities of Excellence awards competition.
"We have a very fine quality organization, and being consistently recognized at the Bureau level means that our organization is not stagnant," said Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guard. "It really is, top to bottom, all the men and women who make up the Wisconsin Army National Guard. It's not just one individual. Every Soldier in our organization has equal value - we just shoulder different levels of responsibility."
The Wisconsin Army National Guard won a Silver Second Place finish this year, sixth in the Army National Guard. The state earned a Gold Third Place award last year (fourth overall), and a Silver 1st Place award (fifth overall) in 2008.
The ACOE Awards follow a 12-month evaluation in which Army, National Guard and Reserve installations are judged against Army priorities and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Program criteria. Participants are not judged against each other. The assessment considers the overall quality of military environment, facilities and services.
Anderson said the ACOE award provides Wisconsin Army Guard leadership with an understanding of the organization's direction.
"It's a system of processes that allows an organization to look at itself in a critical way, which leads to a better organization overall," he explained. "It reinforces our ability to look at ourselves and improve."
The Minnesota Army National Guard was the overall winner under a category dedicated to the National Guard, and will receive a $400,000 cash prize. The Texas Army National Guard was named first place winner in the Gold Category, followed by Georgia and Iowa. The Arkansas Army National Guard finished ahead of Wisconsin in the Silver category.
The Wisconsin Army National Guard also received a monetary award for its finish. Anderson said that these funds are applied toward tangible benefits for Soldiers, such as new fitness equipment and machines for individual armories.
"I'm confident we have Soldiers who do not realize we are active in ACOE, but realize the benefits from it," Anderson said.
Anderson accepted the award on behalf of Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, during a Monday (May 3) ceremony at National Guard Bureau.
"We have a very fine quality organization, and being consistently recognized at the Bureau level means that our organization is not stagnant," said Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guard. "It really is, top to bottom, all the men and women who make up the Wisconsin Army National Guard. It's not just one individual. Every Soldier in our organization has equal value - we just shoulder different levels of responsibility."
The Wisconsin Army National Guard won a Silver Second Place finish this year, sixth in the Army National Guard. The state earned a Gold Third Place award last year (fourth overall), and a Silver 1st Place award (fifth overall) in 2008.
The ACOE Awards follow a 12-month evaluation in which Army, National Guard and Reserve installations are judged against Army priorities and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Program criteria. Participants are not judged against each other. The assessment considers the overall quality of military environment, facilities and services.
Anderson said the ACOE award provides Wisconsin Army Guard leadership with an understanding of the organization's direction.
"It's a system of processes that allows an organization to look at itself in a critical way, which leads to a better organization overall," he explained. "It reinforces our ability to look at ourselves and improve."
The Minnesota Army National Guard was the overall winner under a category dedicated to the National Guard, and will receive a $400,000 cash prize. The Texas Army National Guard was named first place winner in the Gold Category, followed by Georgia and Iowa. The Arkansas Army National Guard finished ahead of Wisconsin in the Silver category.
The Wisconsin Army National Guard also received a monetary award for its finish. Anderson said that these funds are applied toward tangible benefits for Soldiers, such as new fitness equipment and machines for individual armories.
"I'm confident we have Soldiers who do not realize we are active in ACOE, but realize the benefits from it," Anderson said.
Anderson accepted the award on behalf of Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, during a Monday (May 3) ceremony at National Guard Bureau.
Mentorship Program Helps Junior Sailors Learn About Navy
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Wilson, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs
May 7, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Sailors are encouraged to take charge of their personal and professional development through a mentorship program where junior Sailors receive guidance and direction from senior Sailors.
At the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC), any Sailor may join the program, in the role of a mentor or mentee, to share knowledge, skills, information and general perspectives to help boost a Sailor's growth and understanding of Navy life.
"This program is so important to the command and its staff because it offers Sailors a place to find guidance and leadership in a way that makes them feel comfortable and in control," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Joanne Houde, the main point of contact for the mentorship program at NNMC. "Sometimes Sailors may want to seek answers outside of their immediate chain of command and a good mentor will always encourage them to do the right thing."
The mentorship program is not designed to give Sailors a definitive answer to a question, she said, but rather to impart knowledge to enable the Sailors to make an educated decision themselves.
"I can not even count the number of times that I went to my mentor for answers or even advice on which path to take for my career and it was always on my terms," Houde said. "The NNMC mentorship program is designed to provide Sailors with the opportunity to choose a mentor who fits their goals and ambitions by making the appropriate tools available."
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (FMF) Marvin Maramil, a radiology technician at NNMC, is a 10-year veteran and a mentor.
"I have had a good career so far and my progress up the ranks has been better than average," Maramil said.
"People are curious as to how they can succeed and get to where they want to be."
Maramil has been a mentor since February and is sponsoring three junior Sailors.
"Mentors have always been available, but people don't always take advantage of [the opportunity]," Maramil said. "Young Sailors just starting off need guidance and will have questions about the career path of [senior] Sailors. A mentor steers them in the right direction."
A mentor may give guidance in an official or unofficial manner to educate a junior Sailor by identifying their expectations of the Navy, short- and long-term goals, the benefits of submitting an officer package or answering general questions about Navy life.
"It is based on trust. They come to you," Maramil said. "[Mentoring] is done on an individual basis, but it's put out command-wide, so we can encourage more people to join the program."
The program will eventually be open to civilians at NNMC, but currently, the primary focus is on the junior Sailors, Houde said. Once the junior Sailors have a mentor in place, the program will be expanded to include all staff members.
Houde suggests Sailors take full advantage of the program, especially if they're looking for additional guidance. She added that the program is spearheaded by NNMC's First Class Association and aims to help as many individuals as possible.
"Everyone could use a mentor," Houde said. "My mentor was always there for me."
"Regardless of whether he was there to guide me in my naval career or just there to listen when I needed someone to talk to, he always answered that call regardless of where in the world either of us were," Houde said.
A strong match between the mentor and mentee is based on the accomplishments of the senior Sailor and the junior Sailor wanting to follow that lead, according to Mamaril.
May 7, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Sailors are encouraged to take charge of their personal and professional development through a mentorship program where junior Sailors receive guidance and direction from senior Sailors.
At the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC), any Sailor may join the program, in the role of a mentor or mentee, to share knowledge, skills, information and general perspectives to help boost a Sailor's growth and understanding of Navy life.
"This program is so important to the command and its staff because it offers Sailors a place to find guidance and leadership in a way that makes them feel comfortable and in control," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Joanne Houde, the main point of contact for the mentorship program at NNMC. "Sometimes Sailors may want to seek answers outside of their immediate chain of command and a good mentor will always encourage them to do the right thing."
The mentorship program is not designed to give Sailors a definitive answer to a question, she said, but rather to impart knowledge to enable the Sailors to make an educated decision themselves.
"I can not even count the number of times that I went to my mentor for answers or even advice on which path to take for my career and it was always on my terms," Houde said. "The NNMC mentorship program is designed to provide Sailors with the opportunity to choose a mentor who fits their goals and ambitions by making the appropriate tools available."
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (FMF) Marvin Maramil, a radiology technician at NNMC, is a 10-year veteran and a mentor.
"I have had a good career so far and my progress up the ranks has been better than average," Maramil said.
"People are curious as to how they can succeed and get to where they want to be."
Maramil has been a mentor since February and is sponsoring three junior Sailors.
"Mentors have always been available, but people don't always take advantage of [the opportunity]," Maramil said. "Young Sailors just starting off need guidance and will have questions about the career path of [senior] Sailors. A mentor steers them in the right direction."
A mentor may give guidance in an official or unofficial manner to educate a junior Sailor by identifying their expectations of the Navy, short- and long-term goals, the benefits of submitting an officer package or answering general questions about Navy life.
"It is based on trust. They come to you," Maramil said. "[Mentoring] is done on an individual basis, but it's put out command-wide, so we can encourage more people to join the program."
The program will eventually be open to civilians at NNMC, but currently, the primary focus is on the junior Sailors, Houde said. Once the junior Sailors have a mentor in place, the program will be expanded to include all staff members.
Houde suggests Sailors take full advantage of the program, especially if they're looking for additional guidance. She added that the program is spearheaded by NNMC's First Class Association and aims to help as many individuals as possible.
"Everyone could use a mentor," Houde said. "My mentor was always there for me."
"Regardless of whether he was there to guide me in my naval career or just there to listen when I needed someone to talk to, he always answered that call regardless of where in the world either of us were," Houde said.
A strong match between the mentor and mentee is based on the accomplishments of the senior Sailor and the junior Sailor wanting to follow that lead, according to Mamaril.
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Emergency Manager Earns Volunteer Award
By Sarah Fortney, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs
BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The Carroll Manor Fire Company presented the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda emergency manager with the 2009 Volunteer Firefighter of the Year award April 17.
Ron Kunz, NSA Bethesda emergency manager, knows how to plan for disasters and has years of firsthand experience responding to them. After 30 years in the Navy, he retired last year as a master chief hospital corpsman and recently began working in support of NSA Bethesda. When he's not busy putting emergency preparedness plans in place, he spends as much time as he can volunteering at the Carroll Manor Fire Company near his home in Frederick County, roughly 40 miles north of Bethesda.
While he is proud of this achievement, Kunz said he couldn't see himself doing anything but giving back to his community.
"I enjoy volunteering," he said. "It's a whole different experience."
Volunteer fire departments usually have it tough, operating under a tight budget with high expenses. A new fire engine and equipment, for example, can cost about $400,000.
Kunz encourages others to help their community fire departments in some capacity, be it in administration or fundraising.
"Everybody can help in some way," he said."Training is free to those who want to become a nationally accredited volunteer firefighter."
For Kunz, volunteerism runs in the family — he met his wife while she was working as an emergency medical technician and he was a firefighter in Virginia Beach, Va., and now both of his daughters are cadet firefighters. He added that the family has always made it a point to volunteer for their local fire station everywhere they traveled while Kunz was in the Navy.
"Not only does it help the community, it can also be helpful to you and your family," Kunz said.
As a trained firefighter, he said, an individual can help in an emergency situation should something happen at home or in public to a bystander.
Kunz said he has also been able to translate his experience as a firefighter — responding to all types of emergency situations — into his work at NSA Bethesda.
"It helps me a lot here, especially being in the emergency management field," he said.
Kunz joined Carroll Manor in October 2008. He has been a volunteer firefighter since he was 14 and has seen it all, he said, even delivering a baby as a cadet firefighter at age 16. At the time, he was riding in the back of an ambulance en route to the hospital with a woman in labor.
"The baby decided it didn't want to wait, and that's where she delivered," he said.
Carroll Manor Fire Company Chief Ed Johnson said Kunz has made an impact not only on the communities that the station serves, but also the lives he has saved. He has gone above and beyond, helping in any way possible, running calls, sitting on committees and participating in most station fundraisers.
"He brings a wealth of EMS knowledge and leadership skills that are greatly appreciated and recognized by the company - always willing to pitch in, whether it's crawling into a mangled vehicle to reach a victim, providing support functions on working fires, or providing support to a family member who is in need during probably one of the most critical times in their life," Johnson said. "He has a deep desire to help his fellow man."
Johnson said the station has also benefited from his family's dedication with their help in fundraisers and responding to emergencies.
"It was a great pleasure and honor to present Ron with this award," Johnson said. "We could only wish that his family moved to our station long ago because of their abilities, knowledge and just good common sense. I am very excited and proud to say Ron Kunz is a friend, and one that means a great deal to me. Ron is a credit to his family, our community, our military and country."
BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The Carroll Manor Fire Company presented the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda emergency manager with the 2009 Volunteer Firefighter of the Year award April 17.
Ron Kunz, NSA Bethesda emergency manager, knows how to plan for disasters and has years of firsthand experience responding to them. After 30 years in the Navy, he retired last year as a master chief hospital corpsman and recently began working in support of NSA Bethesda. When he's not busy putting emergency preparedness plans in place, he spends as much time as he can volunteering at the Carroll Manor Fire Company near his home in Frederick County, roughly 40 miles north of Bethesda.
While he is proud of this achievement, Kunz said he couldn't see himself doing anything but giving back to his community.
"I enjoy volunteering," he said. "It's a whole different experience."
Volunteer fire departments usually have it tough, operating under a tight budget with high expenses. A new fire engine and equipment, for example, can cost about $400,000.
Kunz encourages others to help their community fire departments in some capacity, be it in administration or fundraising.
"Everybody can help in some way," he said."Training is free to those who want to become a nationally accredited volunteer firefighter."
For Kunz, volunteerism runs in the family — he met his wife while she was working as an emergency medical technician and he was a firefighter in Virginia Beach, Va., and now both of his daughters are cadet firefighters. He added that the family has always made it a point to volunteer for their local fire station everywhere they traveled while Kunz was in the Navy.
"Not only does it help the community, it can also be helpful to you and your family," Kunz said.
As a trained firefighter, he said, an individual can help in an emergency situation should something happen at home or in public to a bystander.
Kunz said he has also been able to translate his experience as a firefighter — responding to all types of emergency situations — into his work at NSA Bethesda.
"It helps me a lot here, especially being in the emergency management field," he said.
Kunz joined Carroll Manor in October 2008. He has been a volunteer firefighter since he was 14 and has seen it all, he said, even delivering a baby as a cadet firefighter at age 16. At the time, he was riding in the back of an ambulance en route to the hospital with a woman in labor.
"The baby decided it didn't want to wait, and that's where she delivered," he said.
Carroll Manor Fire Company Chief Ed Johnson said Kunz has made an impact not only on the communities that the station serves, but also the lives he has saved. He has gone above and beyond, helping in any way possible, running calls, sitting on committees and participating in most station fundraisers.
"He brings a wealth of EMS knowledge and leadership skills that are greatly appreciated and recognized by the company - always willing to pitch in, whether it's crawling into a mangled vehicle to reach a victim, providing support functions on working fires, or providing support to a family member who is in need during probably one of the most critical times in their life," Johnson said. "He has a deep desire to help his fellow man."
Johnson said the station has also benefited from his family's dedication with their help in fundraisers and responding to emergencies.
"It was a great pleasure and honor to present Ron with this award," Johnson said. "We could only wish that his family moved to our station long ago because of their abilities, knowledge and just good common sense. I am very excited and proud to say Ron Kunz is a friend, and one that means a great deal to me. Ron is a credit to his family, our community, our military and country."
McKeague: Diversity strengthens military
by Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Soucy
National Guard Bureau
5/6/2010 - NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (AFNS) -- The strength of the military is improved by the diverse backgrounds of those who make up the organization, a senior National Guard officer said May 3.
"I'd like to think that (for) the success of the United States military, one of its essential elements is diversity," said Maj. Gen. Kelly K. McKeague, assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for National Guard Matters, while speaking here during the annual conference of the Federal Asian Pacific American Council here. "It's made us who we are. It's made us into, literally, the greatest military force on earth."
Success is dependent upon the contributions of many, according to General McKeague.
"It requires contributions from different genders, from people from different walks of life, different religions, different creeds, different nationalities, all coming together for one stated purpose: the security of our great nation," he said.
General McKeague added that diversity also contributes to good leadership.
"Diversity is about leadership, diversity is about engagement," he said, adding that in order for diversity to be successful in an organization, hands-on leadership, as well as a strategic vision, is needed or "it will just be another program."
General McKeague also said that he learned the importance of diversity at an early age. He is the child of a Caucasian father and a Hawaiian mother.
"If you know Hawaii, they don't call Hawaii the 'Crossroads of the Pacific' for nothing," he said. "If the United States is a melting pot, then Hawaii is the garnish on that melting pot. Every race is in Hawaii, especially from the Pacific Rim region. For me, diversity was something I grew up with; it was part of my nature. It was part of everybody's nature."
When it was time to attend college, General McKeague chose one very different from his native Hawaii: Georgia Tech. He said that the move allowed him to get out of his comfort zone and expand his horizons, which is one of the keys to being successful.
"If there is a thread in my career since going to college, it would be getting out of your comfort zone," he said. "That is truly important for you to make a difference in your organization, because when you broaden your horizons, what happens is you open up the aperture of experience."
For General McKeague, who spent the first 14 years of his career as an Air Force civil engineer, having a diverse background of experience translates into having more than one perspective.
"When I was an engineer, I saw the world from an engineer's perspective," he said. "I knew a lot about engineering. I knew a lot about military construction. But, I didn't know a lot about anything else. When I got out of my comfort zone, expanded my horizons, my aperture is now much larger.
"That, I believe, is essential to a leader, either military or civilian," he said.
The importance of diversity and expanding your comfort zone is something that can be applied to working with not only those from different racial, religious or skill sets or backgrounds, but also to working with those from different governmental agencies, General McKeague said.
"Joint-agency, inter-governmental and international (working environments are) here to stay," he said. "Whether it's a single service, whether it's the Department of Defense, whether it's the United States itself, we need joint, we need inter-agency, we need inter-governmental and we need international.
"If you have an opportunity to shape or influence your ability to work within that environment, I would encourage you to do so."
General McKeague continued to encourage the audience to take advantage of any and all opportunities.
"Never miss an opportunity to grow, whether it's personally or professionally," he said. "Those are the bases for success in anything that you do."
National Guard Bureau
5/6/2010 - NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (AFNS) -- The strength of the military is improved by the diverse backgrounds of those who make up the organization, a senior National Guard officer said May 3.
"I'd like to think that (for) the success of the United States military, one of its essential elements is diversity," said Maj. Gen. Kelly K. McKeague, assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for National Guard Matters, while speaking here during the annual conference of the Federal Asian Pacific American Council here. "It's made us who we are. It's made us into, literally, the greatest military force on earth."
Success is dependent upon the contributions of many, according to General McKeague.
"It requires contributions from different genders, from people from different walks of life, different religions, different creeds, different nationalities, all coming together for one stated purpose: the security of our great nation," he said.
General McKeague added that diversity also contributes to good leadership.
"Diversity is about leadership, diversity is about engagement," he said, adding that in order for diversity to be successful in an organization, hands-on leadership, as well as a strategic vision, is needed or "it will just be another program."
General McKeague also said that he learned the importance of diversity at an early age. He is the child of a Caucasian father and a Hawaiian mother.
"If you know Hawaii, they don't call Hawaii the 'Crossroads of the Pacific' for nothing," he said. "If the United States is a melting pot, then Hawaii is the garnish on that melting pot. Every race is in Hawaii, especially from the Pacific Rim region. For me, diversity was something I grew up with; it was part of my nature. It was part of everybody's nature."
When it was time to attend college, General McKeague chose one very different from his native Hawaii: Georgia Tech. He said that the move allowed him to get out of his comfort zone and expand his horizons, which is one of the keys to being successful.
"If there is a thread in my career since going to college, it would be getting out of your comfort zone," he said. "That is truly important for you to make a difference in your organization, because when you broaden your horizons, what happens is you open up the aperture of experience."
For General McKeague, who spent the first 14 years of his career as an Air Force civil engineer, having a diverse background of experience translates into having more than one perspective.
"When I was an engineer, I saw the world from an engineer's perspective," he said. "I knew a lot about engineering. I knew a lot about military construction. But, I didn't know a lot about anything else. When I got out of my comfort zone, expanded my horizons, my aperture is now much larger.
"That, I believe, is essential to a leader, either military or civilian," he said.
The importance of diversity and expanding your comfort zone is something that can be applied to working with not only those from different racial, religious or skill sets or backgrounds, but also to working with those from different governmental agencies, General McKeague said.
"Joint-agency, inter-governmental and international (working environments are) here to stay," he said. "Whether it's a single service, whether it's the Department of Defense, whether it's the United States itself, we need joint, we need inter-agency, we need inter-governmental and we need international.
"If you have an opportunity to shape or influence your ability to work within that environment, I would encourage you to do so."
General McKeague continued to encourage the audience to take advantage of any and all opportunities.
"Never miss an opportunity to grow, whether it's personally or professionally," he said. "Those are the bases for success in anything that you do."
NCIS Hawaii Special Agents, Staff Awarded
From Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs
May 6, 2010 - PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Personnel assigned to Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Field Office Hawaii were awarded the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) medal for the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) during an awards ceremony aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial May 3.
Mark Clookie, director of NCIS, presented the award to 12 special agents and staff.
"We are here to express appreciation to our personnel that have gone in harm's way to protect the freedom of our country," said Clookie. "Today, we pay a special tribute for everything that you all have achieved."
The honorable Edward H. Kubo Jr., circuit court judge of the first circuit (Oahu), served as the guest speaker for the ceremony and thanked the awardees for their service.
"I want to thank each and every one of you for all that you've done for our country, the military and the state of Hawaii," Kubo said. "I am extremely honored to be a part of this great event as we honor our special agents and staff for their service to their country."
Kubo also talked about the significance of NCIS's work throughout the world.
"The NCIS has established itself as an elite organization providing top-notch security, counter-intelligence and counter-terrorism anywhere they are needed," said Kubo
Special Agent (SA) Henry Roney, special agent in charge of NCIS Field Office Hawaii, noted the importance of paying tribute to the agents and staff.
"Our agents sacrifice their time and their family's time, putting themselves through danger to protect our country," said Roney. "It really is an honor to recognize the awardees with the SECDEF GWOT medal and in a well-deserved way."
The awardees included Mr. Wayne Chang; Ms. Elizabeth Faulkner; SA Robert Flannery; SA James Heddlesten; SA Louis Lockhard; SA Tony Richardson; SA Glenn Roessler; SA John Smallman; SA Amanda Smoot Tolentino; SA Peter Tolentino; SA Christopher Leaden; and SA James Nettleton.
The Secretary of Defense medal for the Global War on Terrorism was created to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense in direct support of the nation's armed forces, whose members are engaged in operations to combat terrorism.
May 6, 2010 - PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Personnel assigned to Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Field Office Hawaii were awarded the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) medal for the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) during an awards ceremony aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial May 3.
Mark Clookie, director of NCIS, presented the award to 12 special agents and staff.
"We are here to express appreciation to our personnel that have gone in harm's way to protect the freedom of our country," said Clookie. "Today, we pay a special tribute for everything that you all have achieved."
The honorable Edward H. Kubo Jr., circuit court judge of the first circuit (Oahu), served as the guest speaker for the ceremony and thanked the awardees for their service.
"I want to thank each and every one of you for all that you've done for our country, the military and the state of Hawaii," Kubo said. "I am extremely honored to be a part of this great event as we honor our special agents and staff for their service to their country."
Kubo also talked about the significance of NCIS's work throughout the world.
"The NCIS has established itself as an elite organization providing top-notch security, counter-intelligence and counter-terrorism anywhere they are needed," said Kubo
Special Agent (SA) Henry Roney, special agent in charge of NCIS Field Office Hawaii, noted the importance of paying tribute to the agents and staff.
"Our agents sacrifice their time and their family's time, putting themselves through danger to protect our country," said Roney. "It really is an honor to recognize the awardees with the SECDEF GWOT medal and in a well-deserved way."
The awardees included Mr. Wayne Chang; Ms. Elizabeth Faulkner; SA Robert Flannery; SA James Heddlesten; SA Louis Lockhard; SA Tony Richardson; SA Glenn Roessler; SA John Smallman; SA Amanda Smoot Tolentino; SA Peter Tolentino; SA Christopher Leaden; and SA James Nettleton.
The Secretary of Defense medal for the Global War on Terrorism was created to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense in direct support of the nation's armed forces, whose members are engaged in operations to combat terrorism.
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Pentagon Leaders Recognize Best Installations
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
May 5, 2010 - Representatives from five military bases deemed the "best of the best" were awarded the highest award for excellence among installations at a Pentagon ceremony today.
The Army's Fort Bragg in North Carolina; Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; Naval Base San Diego; Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska; and Defense Distribution Depot Susquehanna, Pa., received the Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence.
"The personnel we recognize today embody courage, integrity and initiative," Ashton B. Carter, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, told the recipients before announcing them. "I hope they inspire others to rise to new levels of excellence in the coming years."
The recipients also were honored by the man who created the award 25 years ago. Bob Stone, former deputy assistant secretary of defense for installations, said he created the award in 1985 to encourage and recognize excellence at a time when troops were "poorly housed and poorly cared for."
The traditional approach was to provide just enough comfort so that troops wouldn't leave the military en masse, Stone said. "Excellence wasn't a concept, let alone a policy," he said.
Stone, who lives in Los Angeles, said Hollywood movies forever remind us of the courage and sacrifices of troops at war, but not those who support them back home. "They don't make movies about you, but you own a part of the heroic experience," he said. "You continue to set new standards of innovation, dedication and management. You were environmentalists before the word existed."
President Barack Obama submitted a statement for the event. "Our military installations ... are the power projection platforms for securing our freedom, and they serve as home stations for thousands of dedicated servicemembers and their civilian counterparts," the president said in the statement. "These installations also enhance mission performance and increase quality of life by fostering a strong spirit of community."
Fort Bragg, under the command of Army Lt. Gen. Frank G. Helmick, is receiving the award for keeping the Army's airborne and special operations forces – more than 10 percent of the service – mission ready, while also absorbing the first of nearly 10,000 additional soldiers who will be assigned to the base by 2013, officials said.
The post's leaders "employed creative solutions to address this growth head-on, focusing on sustainability and long-term viability" in new construction and transportation projects, officials said. They also expanded family satellite programs and offices in the local community to serve the 80 percent of families living off post while saving millions of dollars through strategic planning and new business processes.
Twentynine Palms, under the command of Brig. Gen. Herman S. Clardy III, was cited as the Marine Corps' premier live-fire and maneuver training center, providing training to more than 45,000 Marines and sailors who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in 2009. Also, the combat center improved the quality of life for families even while dealing with funding and work force cutbacks, officials said.
Naval Base San Diego, commanded by Capt. Ricky L. Williamson, was named for using proactive and creative management practices to enhance readiness, business processes and quality of life last year. Base leaders synchronized initiatives to realize unity of effort, leveraged technology to improve communications and improved contract requirements for significant cost savings, officials said.
Elmendorf, under the command of Col. Thomas K. Bergeson, was recognized for being the first installation to implement a Veterans Affairs itemized billing process, serving as a model for others, while also executing the largest construction program in base history last year. Elmendorf's hospital was rated best in the Air Force for the second consecutive year, and it was named as having Pacific Air Forces' best environmental program, officials said.
Defense Distribution Depot Susquehanna, under the command of Navy Capt. J.G. King, was recognized for its service in providing commodities to all armed forces, federal agencies, and other defense depots in the eastern half of the United States, as well as Central and South America, Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia.
As the Defense Department's largest distribution center, the depot last year built more than 28,600 air pallets, filled more than 9,990 sea containers, loaded more than 6,300 trucks for delivery to more than 50 military installations, officials said. At the same time, the depot completed "massive re-warehousing" in preparation to receive material repositioned from the base realignment and closure process, giving it stewardship of more than a million different stock items.
American Forces Press Service
May 5, 2010 - Representatives from five military bases deemed the "best of the best" were awarded the highest award for excellence among installations at a Pentagon ceremony today.
The Army's Fort Bragg in North Carolina; Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.; Naval Base San Diego; Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska; and Defense Distribution Depot Susquehanna, Pa., received the Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence.
"The personnel we recognize today embody courage, integrity and initiative," Ashton B. Carter, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, told the recipients before announcing them. "I hope they inspire others to rise to new levels of excellence in the coming years."
The recipients also were honored by the man who created the award 25 years ago. Bob Stone, former deputy assistant secretary of defense for installations, said he created the award in 1985 to encourage and recognize excellence at a time when troops were "poorly housed and poorly cared for."
The traditional approach was to provide just enough comfort so that troops wouldn't leave the military en masse, Stone said. "Excellence wasn't a concept, let alone a policy," he said.
Stone, who lives in Los Angeles, said Hollywood movies forever remind us of the courage and sacrifices of troops at war, but not those who support them back home. "They don't make movies about you, but you own a part of the heroic experience," he said. "You continue to set new standards of innovation, dedication and management. You were environmentalists before the word existed."
President Barack Obama submitted a statement for the event. "Our military installations ... are the power projection platforms for securing our freedom, and they serve as home stations for thousands of dedicated servicemembers and their civilian counterparts," the president said in the statement. "These installations also enhance mission performance and increase quality of life by fostering a strong spirit of community."
Fort Bragg, under the command of Army Lt. Gen. Frank G. Helmick, is receiving the award for keeping the Army's airborne and special operations forces – more than 10 percent of the service – mission ready, while also absorbing the first of nearly 10,000 additional soldiers who will be assigned to the base by 2013, officials said.
The post's leaders "employed creative solutions to address this growth head-on, focusing on sustainability and long-term viability" in new construction and transportation projects, officials said. They also expanded family satellite programs and offices in the local community to serve the 80 percent of families living off post while saving millions of dollars through strategic planning and new business processes.
Twentynine Palms, under the command of Brig. Gen. Herman S. Clardy III, was cited as the Marine Corps' premier live-fire and maneuver training center, providing training to more than 45,000 Marines and sailors who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in 2009. Also, the combat center improved the quality of life for families even while dealing with funding and work force cutbacks, officials said.
Naval Base San Diego, commanded by Capt. Ricky L. Williamson, was named for using proactive and creative management practices to enhance readiness, business processes and quality of life last year. Base leaders synchronized initiatives to realize unity of effort, leveraged technology to improve communications and improved contract requirements for significant cost savings, officials said.
Elmendorf, under the command of Col. Thomas K. Bergeson, was recognized for being the first installation to implement a Veterans Affairs itemized billing process, serving as a model for others, while also executing the largest construction program in base history last year. Elmendorf's hospital was rated best in the Air Force for the second consecutive year, and it was named as having Pacific Air Forces' best environmental program, officials said.
Defense Distribution Depot Susquehanna, under the command of Navy Capt. J.G. King, was recognized for its service in providing commodities to all armed forces, federal agencies, and other defense depots in the eastern half of the United States, as well as Central and South America, Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia.
As the Defense Department's largest distribution center, the depot last year built more than 28,600 air pallets, filled more than 9,990 sea containers, loaded more than 6,300 trucks for delivery to more than 50 military installations, officials said. At the same time, the depot completed "massive re-warehousing" in preparation to receive material repositioned from the base realignment and closure process, giving it stewardship of more than a million different stock items.
Chief of staff to senior enlisted leaders: 'Maximize potential of Airmen'
by Tech. Sgt. Brannen Parrish
Air University Public Affairs
5/5/2010 - MAXWELL AFB, Ala. (AFNS) -- The Air Force's top uniformed officer told senior enlisted leaders from across the Air Force here May 4 that the case to maximize the potential and performance of every Airman has never been more compelling.
"Today, more than ever, tactical effects can have strategic consequences," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz. "In many instances, mission success hinges on Airmen outside the wire, making split-second decisions in a highly dynamic environment in which black and white choices are rare, and the many shades of gray can challenge even the most brilliant and competent among us."
Speaking to about 375 Air Force, joint and coalition attendees at the 2010 Senior Enlisted Leader Summit, General Schwartz noted that fiscal constraints and the smallest active-duty force in the Air Force's 63-year history requires leaders to focus on deliberate development -- the right experience, training and education at the right time -- to sustain the service's ability to perform assigned missions.
"We must be creative in our approach, utilizing a variety of ways and means to deliver the appropriate technical, cultural, or corporate information in a timely and effective manner," he said. "That means that we must innovate, even when it makes us uncomfortable."
General Schwartz advised enlisted leaders to emphasize and inspire performance while demonstrating genuine concern for Airmen.
The mediums available to leaders can range from "old-fashioned mentoring" and "face-to-face chats" to newer, Internet-based methods of communication, he said. Whatever the medium, guidance, motivation and leadership are critical.
"However you do it, remember this: every moment that you take to impart knowledge and experience to junior Airmen who look up to you, you are in fact mentoring," the general said. "We must all take every opportunity to do so, and ensure that our expectations are crystal clear."
In closing, the general asked the group of leaders to focus on not just the professional development of their Airmen, but also on their personal well-being.
Acknowledging a rise in suicides throughout the Air Force family over the past three years, General Schwartz called on enlisted leaders to act. He encouraged them to arrest the trend by identifying stresses and failed relationships among people and intervening, even if they are reluctant to ask for help.
"Do not, for a single moment, accept the needless loss of a teammate as the cost of doing business," he said. "It isn't the cost of doing business -- not now, not ever. This is a leadership issue for our Air Force. Let's apply -- you and me -- our collective will to this problem, as we do so well in our other military missions."
Air University Public Affairs
5/5/2010 - MAXWELL AFB, Ala. (AFNS) -- The Air Force's top uniformed officer told senior enlisted leaders from across the Air Force here May 4 that the case to maximize the potential and performance of every Airman has never been more compelling.
"Today, more than ever, tactical effects can have strategic consequences," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz. "In many instances, mission success hinges on Airmen outside the wire, making split-second decisions in a highly dynamic environment in which black and white choices are rare, and the many shades of gray can challenge even the most brilliant and competent among us."
Speaking to about 375 Air Force, joint and coalition attendees at the 2010 Senior Enlisted Leader Summit, General Schwartz noted that fiscal constraints and the smallest active-duty force in the Air Force's 63-year history requires leaders to focus on deliberate development -- the right experience, training and education at the right time -- to sustain the service's ability to perform assigned missions.
"We must be creative in our approach, utilizing a variety of ways and means to deliver the appropriate technical, cultural, or corporate information in a timely and effective manner," he said. "That means that we must innovate, even when it makes us uncomfortable."
General Schwartz advised enlisted leaders to emphasize and inspire performance while demonstrating genuine concern for Airmen.
The mediums available to leaders can range from "old-fashioned mentoring" and "face-to-face chats" to newer, Internet-based methods of communication, he said. Whatever the medium, guidance, motivation and leadership are critical.
"However you do it, remember this: every moment that you take to impart knowledge and experience to junior Airmen who look up to you, you are in fact mentoring," the general said. "We must all take every opportunity to do so, and ensure that our expectations are crystal clear."
In closing, the general asked the group of leaders to focus on not just the professional development of their Airmen, but also on their personal well-being.
Acknowledging a rise in suicides throughout the Air Force family over the past three years, General Schwartz called on enlisted leaders to act. He encouraged them to arrest the trend by identifying stresses and failed relationships among people and intervening, even if they are reluctant to ask for help.
"Do not, for a single moment, accept the needless loss of a teammate as the cost of doing business," he said. "It isn't the cost of doing business -- not now, not ever. This is a leadership issue for our Air Force. Let's apply -- you and me -- our collective will to this problem, as we do so well in our other military missions."
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
2010 U.S. Presidential Scholars Announced
May 3, 2010 - U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today announced the selection of 141 outstanding high school seniors as the 2010 U.S. Presidential Scholars. The students have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community. U.S. Presidential Scholars will be honored for their accomplishments in Washington D.C., from June 19-22.
"These student leaders and scholars show that setting high expectations and striving for excellence pays off," Duncan said. "Their academic and artistic achievements reflect a sense of purpose that we should seek to instill in all students to prepare them for college, careers, civic responsibilities, and the challenges of today's job market."
The 141 U.S. Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars appointed by the President selected the scholars based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
For the past 46 years, this prestigious program has honored more than 6,000 of the nation's top-performing students. Of the three million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 3,000 candidates qualified on the basis of outstanding performance on the College Board SAT and ACT exams, or by nomination through the nationwide YoungArts™ competition conducted by the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was created in 1964 to honor academic achievement. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts.
Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has invited his or her most inspiring and challenging teacher to travel to Washington, D.C., to receive a Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education and to participate in the recognition events.
May 3, 2010 - U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today announced the selection of 141 outstanding high school seniors as the 2010 U.S. Presidential Scholars. The students have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community. U.S. Presidential Scholars will be honored for their accomplishments in Washington D.C., from June 19-22.
"These student leaders and scholars show that setting high expectations and striving for excellence pays off," Duncan said. "Their academic and artistic achievements reflect a sense of purpose that we should seek to instill in all students to prepare them for college, careers, civic responsibilities, and the challenges of today's job market."
The 141 U.S. Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars appointed by the President selected the scholars based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
For the past 46 years, this prestigious program has honored more than 6,000 of the nation's top-performing students. Of the three million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 3,000 candidates qualified on the basis of outstanding performance on the College Board SAT and ACT exams, or by nomination through the nationwide YoungArts™ competition conducted by the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was created in 1964 to honor academic achievement. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts.
Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has invited his or her most inspiring and challenging teacher to travel to Washington, D.C., to receive a Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education and to participate in the recognition events.
Monday, May 03, 2010
Navy, Marines Need Adaptable People, Gates Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
May 3, 2010 - The types and numbers of Navy ships will change, but the quality of the sailors and Marines aboard those ships and serving ashore must endure, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today. Gates spoke at the Navy League's annual Sea-Air-Space Convention at the Gaylord Convention Center.
Sailors and Marines "must have moral, as well as physical courage; they must have integrity; they must think creatively and boldly," the secretary said. "They must have the vision and insight to see that the world and technology are constantly changing and that the Navy and Marine Corps must therefore change with the times – ever flexible and ever adaptable. They must be willing to speak hard truths, including to superiors."
How the United States handles the increasingly complex security challenges of the future will depend less on the quality of its hardware than on the quality of the leaders, the secretary said, noting that he spoke about this at some length with midshipmen at the Naval Academy last month.
As examples, he used Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Victor Krulak, the visionary behind the Higgins boat who later contributed greatly to U.S. understanding of counterinsurgency in Vietnam. He also cited Navy Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, who as a young officer helped to develop the circular formation for carrier escorts, used to great effect in World War II and for decades after.
The secretary mentioned Navy Adm. Hyman Rickover, whose genius and persistence overcame the conventional wisdom that nuclear reactors were too bulky and dangerous to put on submarines.
Finally, he spoke of Navy Lt. Cmdr. Roy Boehm, who after World War II designed and led a special new commando unit that became the Navy SEALs. Boehm's legacy is at work every night, he said, tracking down America's most lethal enemies in Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world.
"The reason I wanted to talk to midshipmen about these leaders ... is not that they were always right, nor that they should be emulated in every way – to put it mildly," Gates said. "What is compelling about each of these leaders is that they had the vision and insight to see that the world and technology were changing, they understood the implications of these shifts and then they pressed ahead in the face of often-fierce institutional resistance."
These qualities would come to the fore in any era, Gates said, but they are especially important today, given the pace of technological changes and the agile and adaptive nature of the most-likely and lethal U.S. adversaries. The enemy could run the gamut from modern militaries using asymmetric tactics to terrorist groups with advanced weapons.
"Our officers will lead an American military that must have the maximum flexibility to deal with the widest-possible range of scenarios and adversaries," Gates said.
The emphasis in the Navy and the Marine Corps has to be on their people, the secretary told the group.
"Over the past three-and-a-half years, in the fury of two wars, I have seen the future of the Navy and Marine Corps onboard ships, on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan, at Navy bases and Marine camps, and at the Academy," he said. "These young men and women fill me with confidence that the future of our sea services is incredibly bright and that our nation will be secure in their hands."
American Forces Press Service
May 3, 2010 - The types and numbers of Navy ships will change, but the quality of the sailors and Marines aboard those ships and serving ashore must endure, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today. Gates spoke at the Navy League's annual Sea-Air-Space Convention at the Gaylord Convention Center.
Sailors and Marines "must have moral, as well as physical courage; they must have integrity; they must think creatively and boldly," the secretary said. "They must have the vision and insight to see that the world and technology are constantly changing and that the Navy and Marine Corps must therefore change with the times – ever flexible and ever adaptable. They must be willing to speak hard truths, including to superiors."
How the United States handles the increasingly complex security challenges of the future will depend less on the quality of its hardware than on the quality of the leaders, the secretary said, noting that he spoke about this at some length with midshipmen at the Naval Academy last month.
As examples, he used Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Victor Krulak, the visionary behind the Higgins boat who later contributed greatly to U.S. understanding of counterinsurgency in Vietnam. He also cited Navy Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, who as a young officer helped to develop the circular formation for carrier escorts, used to great effect in World War II and for decades after.
The secretary mentioned Navy Adm. Hyman Rickover, whose genius and persistence overcame the conventional wisdom that nuclear reactors were too bulky and dangerous to put on submarines.
Finally, he spoke of Navy Lt. Cmdr. Roy Boehm, who after World War II designed and led a special new commando unit that became the Navy SEALs. Boehm's legacy is at work every night, he said, tracking down America's most lethal enemies in Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world.
"The reason I wanted to talk to midshipmen about these leaders ... is not that they were always right, nor that they should be emulated in every way – to put it mildly," Gates said. "What is compelling about each of these leaders is that they had the vision and insight to see that the world and technology were changing, they understood the implications of these shifts and then they pressed ahead in the face of often-fierce institutional resistance."
These qualities would come to the fore in any era, Gates said, but they are especially important today, given the pace of technological changes and the agile and adaptive nature of the most-likely and lethal U.S. adversaries. The enemy could run the gamut from modern militaries using asymmetric tactics to terrorist groups with advanced weapons.
"Our officers will lead an American military that must have the maximum flexibility to deal with the widest-possible range of scenarios and adversaries," Gates said.
The emphasis in the Navy and the Marine Corps has to be on their people, the secretary told the group.
"Over the past three-and-a-half years, in the fury of two wars, I have seen the future of the Navy and Marine Corps onboard ships, on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan, at Navy bases and Marine camps, and at the Academy," he said. "These young men and women fill me with confidence that the future of our sea services is incredibly bright and that our nation will be secure in their hands."
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