1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 20 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
May 17, 2012
bearing
down
photo by sarah pastrana
Capt. Lincoln Kaffenberger bear crawls on McGlachlin Parade Field during the annual Super Squad competition May 8 as part of the National Security Agency’s Armed
Forces Week. Groups of six from all military branches and the NSA Police competed in the 5.75-mile course that consisted of shooting, swimming, an obstacle course, ruck
runs and exercises. For more, see Pages 14-15.
‘heroes’ detour ahead UPCOMING EVENTS
Military spouses Roads to close Friday today, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Asian Pacific American Heritage Observance - McGill
honored at for installation run, Friday, 6:30-8 a.m.: Joint Service Installation Run - McGlachlin Parade Field
road work saturday, 8 a.m.: Patriot Pride 10K Relay & One-Mile Walk - Murphy Field House
annual luncheon
wednesday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Community Job Fair - Club Meade
page 8 page 4 May 24, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Safety, Health & Wellness Expo - The Pavilion

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´
Giving thanks to the
‘backbone’ of our military
Col. Edward C. Rothstein
Garrison Command
Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith
Public Affairs Officer
Chad T. Jones
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil Resiliency. It is more than just a buzzword. It’s a
Chief, Command Information renewed way of thinking about comprehensive fit-
Philip H. Jones ness for our service members, family members and
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil Team Meade civilians.
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer While it is the theme of Friday’s joint service run
Rona S. Hirsch from 6 to 8 a.m. at McGlachlin Parade Field which
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes everyone is invited to join, resiliency is more than
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz just a single event. It is a life-long process.
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis Our military continues to adapt to the challenges
Supple­mental photography provided of more than a decade of deployments. It is no
by Patuxent Publishing Co. secret that military life is challenging for both our
service members and families, who serve an incred-
Advertising
ibly important role on the home front. photo by nate pesce
General Inquiries 410-332-6300 On May 10, Army Community Service hosted its
Allison Thompson annual Military Spouse Appreciation Luncheon. It Garrison Commander Col. Edward C.
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com was a great opportunity to pause for a few hours Rothstein and Audrey Rothstein
Michele Griesbauer and say “thank you” to military spouses. They are our community with our unique cultures, talents
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com among some of the most resilient people I know. and skills. We strengthen our community through
My wife, Audrey, spoke at the luncheon about our volunteerism and are ambassadors for the mili-
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com.
what she’s learned during her 17 years as a military tary as we go to work in the local community.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through spouse, a mother of two, and veteran of seven moves “All of us face trials and challenges as we try to
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and numerous deployments that lasted anywhere fit into new communities, but the friendships and
from a couple of weeks to a year. Her words pro- connections we make are worth the effort.
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the vided some insight into what our spouses mean. “As wife of the garrison commander, I find I
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary I invite you to read her remarks below (and the am in a unique position to witness and hear about
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. article about the luncheon on Page 8): the amazing things our spouses do on Fort Meade.
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the “Whether you have been married for 30 years or Team Meade has benefited from all of you in many
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, a few months, it takes commitment to each other ways. From the organizations you volunteer to
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. and the military to make it through our tough lead to the families and neighbors you help, to the
lifestyle. support you give your service member so they can
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage “As leaders of our military community here
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser,
concentrate and do their duty for their country, the
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser on Fort Meade, we know that healthy families - work that you do makes this place better.
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. families that find balance in their lives - are strong “Over the years, spouses have become a vital part
families. They make time in their calendars to enjoy of such programs as Army Family Team Build-
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department activities and events offered to them from places ing and [the] Army Family Action Plan as well as
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are like [the Directorate of Family and] Morale, Wel- equally important programs in each of the other
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of
fare and Recreation, or venture out into surround- branches of service.
the Army of the products or services advertised. ing counties to see what they have to offer. “You live the military life, you know what works
“We know that resilient spouses are strong and what doesn’t, and these programs allow you to
spouses — spouses that take what life throws at have a voice to make our lifestyle a little easier.
them and can overcome the challenges by using “It is nice to be in an era where the military
www.ftmeade.army.mil programs set in place to educate and assist them to spouse and family play such a visible role in the life
persevere through the rough times and come out of the service member. It wasn’t that long ago when
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd better equipped to handle the next trial. families were not considered a part of the whole
and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil. “Service members that have a strong support package. Unless it was ‘issued by the military’ it
system behind them are able to be stronger and wasn’t recognized. Thank goodness that mind set
more committed and focused on their job. Military has changed.
spouses are an intricate part of an installation and “Presently, our opinions are heard not only at
Co n t e n t s the community they reside in during their tour, and
this is especially true for Team Meade.
the local level, but sought out even by those in the
White House. How empowering is that!
“When we arrive at a new duty station, we get “In closing, I just want to say ‘thank you’ again
News.............................. 3 Classified.............................. 24 right to work finding our niche by either volunteer- for what you do every day for our service members,
ing or searching out employment. We meet our families, community and country. Your resiliency
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Sports................................... 16 neighbors and become involved in clubs or organi- and commitment to your service member allows
zations. We bring our past experiences to share, but them to be the best they can be. You are indeed,
Community.................. 19 Movies.................................. 22 come with open minds to try new things. We enrich the backbone of our military.”
SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
2012 Army Emergency Relief Fund campaign exceeds goal
By Jason Kelly
Emerging Media Manager
The installation’s 2012 Army Emergency
Relief campaign, which ended Tuesday, col-
lected 123.7 percent of its $80,000 goal.
As of Tuesday evening, the campaign
raised $98,988 since it began March 1, said Garrison
Wallace Turner, AER officer, who expects Command Sgt.
the total to increase from last-minute dona- Maj. Charles E.
tions. Smith, Garrison
The money will be used to help active- Commander
duty Soldiers, retirees, Reservists and Col. Edward C.
Guardsmen and their family members with Rothstein and
financial assistance during emergencies. Wallace Turner,
“The Team Meade community is com- Fort Meade Army
mitted to taking care of its Soldiers, service Emergency Relief
members and families,” said Garrison Com- officer, pause for
mander Col. Edward C. Rothstein, who has a photograph
donated to AER throughout his 29 years in while discussing
the Army. this year’s
“I’ve seen the program develop over time campaign in
and the ability to take care of ourselves. front of the AER
… It’s an opportunity for our leaders to sign, which was
identify challenges our Soldiers and families updated Monday.
may have, to care for them by just contribut- The campaign
ing throughout the Army.” raised $98,988
AER added new categories of assistance — 123.7 percent
effective Jan. 1 to meet changing needs of its $80,000
such as family-member dental care, basic goal.
furniture needs, and replacement and rental
vehicles. Photo by MARINE
Last year, more than $700,000 was dis- Pvt. Coby K. Smith
tributed to Fort Meade Soldiers. This year,
requests are being made at a record pace,
said Turner, who attributes the need, in
part, to the economy.
“We live in a high-cost area. It’s supple-
mented in our income, but it is still expen-
sive,” Turner said. “For Soldiers, I think
one of the biggest things is requests for
assistance with essential vehicles … and
Post unveils priorities list Installation priority list
utilities.” By Fort Meade Public Affairs Office This gives IMCOM a framework of
Although the campaign officially has • Maintain and improve the quality
In a world of military acronyms, few urgent matters that need action during
ended, donations can still be made at Army people may know what the acronym the budget year, said Cory Johnson, of life for Fort Meade customers and
Community Service, 830 Chisholm Ave., or IPL is. But the Fort Meade Installa- senior plans specialist at the Plans, the community.
online at aerhq.org. tion Priority List, which was approved Analysis and Integration Office. • Maintain and improve installation
This was the first year donations could be Friday, will impact everyone who lives, The IPL is updated annually and infrastructure, facilities, technology
made online, which Turner said was “highly works and serves here. placed in a memorandum, which is
successful.” and environment.
Tenant commanders met with Garri- signed by Maj. Gen. Michael S. Lin-
For more information, call Wallace son Commander Col. Edward C. Roth- nington, commander of Joint Forces • Provide a safe and secure
Turner, AER officer, at 301-677-5768. stein during the installation’s biannual Headquarters National Capital Region/ environment.
Installation Planning Board on Friday Military District of Washington, and • Maintain a mission-ready
Correction to approve the IPL, which provides the Brig. Gen. (P) John Uberti, the dep- workforce that continuously
garrison with a clear view of where it uty commanding general for Support, improves and upgrades its
In last week’s article, “Retiring DMA needs to focus its resources. Installation Management Command.
director honored for decades of ser- The IPL is synchronized with the The signatures demonstrate their capabilities.
vice,” Col. Jeremy Martin, commandant Installation Management Command commitment toward achieving Fort • Maintain and improve business
of the Defense Information School, was Objective Memorandum, which pro- Meade’s desired goals through innova- practices and processes to maximize
incorrectly identified. vides an analysis of installation mis- tion, partnership and balance, Johnson efficiency and effectiveness.
Soundoff! regrets the error. sions, goals and objectives. said.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 17, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Trouble
Have you noticed an issue on post
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
Construction
Ticket
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail.
mil. Each week, Soundoff! will Zone
address issues identified on post
Ongoing construction and renovations
and describe what is being done to
solve them.
on Fort Meade
Road work to repave asphalt Drivers will be able to use Rose
as part of a project that installed Street, the Mapes Road commis-
a new section of a 20-inch water sary entrance/exit, or Ruffner Road
main will impact drivers near the to Cooper Avenue to get back onto
commissary Friday. Mapes Road while MacArthur
Rose Street and the Mapes Road Road is closed.
commissary entrance/exit will close MacArthur Road is expected to
Friday morning for three to four reopen Friday afternoon once the
hours following the Joint Service asphalt has cooled.
Installation Run. Burger King will be Detour signs will be posted.
accessible using Reece Road. The schedule is subject to change
The roads will reopen once the due to weather conditions.
asphalt has cooled. Visit www.ftmeade.army.mil and
MacArthur Road, near Mapes Facebook.com/ftmeade for con-
Road, will close midday Friday. struction updates.
Roads to close for joint run
The Joint Service Installation Run on Friday will impact drivers from 6:30
to 7:30 a.m.
Sections of Mapes, Reece and MacArthur roads will be closed for the
“Resiliency Run,” which will begin at McGlachlin Parade Field.
Drivers should use the following alternate routes during the one-hour
Photo by Pvt. Ronnie Brink, U.S. Marine Corps closure:
Carl Willis and Bill Beal, employees of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and • Access to west side of post: Use Route 32 gate.
Recreation, remove a slide stabilizer from the Burba Lake playground on Friday. Their • Access to Defense Information Systems Agency and west side of post:
repairs allowed a play set, which the Installation Safety Office had deemed unsafe, to reopen Use Rockenbach Road gate and road.
Friday. • Access to Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center and surrounding areas:
Use Mapes Road and Llewellyn Avenue gates.
Issue: Plan: Status: Road barriers and personnel will be used to control traffic during the
temporary closures.
For more information, call 301-677-4719. To view maps of the run
The Installation Safety Office Repair the play equipment Repairs are complete and alternate routes, visit www.ftmeade.army.mil.
has deemed and marked so that it is functional
some play equipment at
Burba Lake as unsafe
Youth Services Sports Renovate the Youth Services Actual use of fields is
Complex needs renovations Sports Complex expected to be this fall
after the grass matures
The jogging trail around the Find an alternate route A redesigned trail opened
golf course closed May 1 for the trail May 1; visit go.usa.gov/pxq
for the route map
SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
day
Satur Only:
Safety stand down features
ay
Sund on
Lamb pit
the S
health services, interactive
simulators, medical screenings
By Installation Safety Office tive equipment information, water/boat Visit our outdoor
The Installation Safety Office will host safety and CrossFit — strength-training Gyro/Souvlaki Stand!
its annual Safety, Health and Wellness that consists of lifting, throwing, jumping
Expo on May 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and climbing. Be sure to get tickets for our
at the Pavilion. A bike rodeo obstacle course for chil- Raffle of the Gods for
your chance to win Ravens or Capitals
The event is open to the public. Admis- dren will help them learn about bicycle tickets, Restaurant Vouchers…
and more!
sion is free. safety. Certificates will be distributed
Chance to win:
Local, state and federal agencies and after they complete the riding course. Soccer (Football) 4 tickets
private vendors will offer a wide range of Participants must bring their own bike Barclays Premier League
Tottenham Hotspur FC vs
safety, health and wellness information helmet. Liverpool FC
and services. Several demonstrations and simula- MT Bank Saturday July 28, 2012
Many interactive activities will be fea- tions on how to stay healthy and safe also Directions: Back of Goal
From the DC Beltway, take exit 22a to B/W Parkway
tured such as the Seat Belt Convincer, will be available (towards Baltimore). Take Greenbelt/NASA exit to
which simulates a low-impact vehicle Full participation and support from all Greenbelt Road (193 east). Continue on 193 for 1.5 miles
collision, as well as drunk driving and garrison employees are essential to make to Cipriano Road. Turn right onto Cipriano. Church is 2
blocks ahead on left.
driving while texting simulators, and the the expo a success. Employees of tenant
Impaired Vision Driving Course. organizations are encouraged to attend. St. Theodore Greek Orthodox Church
Blood pressure and vision screenings Safety awareness reduces injuries and 7101 Cipriano Road • Lanham MD 20706
also will be offered. saves lives. (301) 552-3540 • www.sttheodores.org
Expo topics include: motorcycle-safety For more information about the expo, Visit us on Facebook or view our website for event news!
awareness, fire-safety awareness, alcohol call Aaron Rowell at 301-677-6241 or Jen-
and drug awareness, personal protec- elle Ferguson at 301-677-4867.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 17, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

6. N ews
Agreement benefits 241st MP, 200th MP Command
Story and photo by Sgt. Travis Dykhoff (left) and Sgt. Brian
Staff Sgt. Brett McMillan Thomas, of the 400th Military Police
200th MP Command Public Affairs Battalion, 200th MP Command, practice
Since its formation in 2008, members baton riot-control techniques during
of the Reserve’s 200th Military Police training with the 241st MP Detachment
Command have sought better ways to on May 5 to become certified MPs on
train and actually perform their military Fort Meade.
jobs while not deployed.
Thanks to a new arrangement with and Criminal Investigation Command
Fort Meade’s 241st MP Detachment, assignments, Schilling said the 241st MP
they have what may be the ultimate has “a full load for a detachment of
answer. 53” and welcomes MPs from the 200th
On May 6, nine Soldiers from the MP Command to enhance the force
200th MP Command worked alongside for special events or to assist in regular
their active-duty counterparts to provide operations.
security for the post’s annual Massing of In a break-in training Saturday morn-
the Colors. Reservists from the 200th MP ing, Spc. Joseph Kozlowski, of 200th
headquarters and 400th MP Battalion MP headquarters and a law student with
completed specialized training with the aspirations of becoming an officer for the
241st MP over the previous three months Judge Advocate General, said training
to be certified to work on post. with the 241st MP built on the basics he
Training culminated May 5 with baton learned at the Army’s MP school.
and pepper-spray training that left Sol- Kozlowski said he looks forward to
diers in tears. After taking direct shots performing MP duties and gaining expe-
of oleoresin capsicum pepper spray in Provost Marshal Office several months operations officer for the Directorate of rience in his current position.
their eyes, the MPs had to fight through ago. She saw MPs unable to perform Emergency Services and former com- After taking a shot of pepper spray in
the pain and disorientation to complete their military job during their monthly mander of the 241st MP. Together, they the face and demonstrating riot-control
a series of crowd-control exercises with a training worked out a mutually beneficial memo- skills, Kozlowski completed the 241st
padded baton and eventually “arrest” a For most military occupational spe- randum of agreement. MP’s training requirements with a red-
heavily-padded troublemaker. cialties, this is not a problem. With Fort Meade MPs assigned to dened face and tearful eyes, but better
As the sprayed MPs scrubbed their Gary contacted Capt. Randy Schilling, conduct traffic control, investigations, K9 prepared to maintain law and order.
burning eyes and faces with baby sham-
poo after the training, it could seem that
the exercise was a little extreme. But
241st MP Operations Noncommissioned
Reaching for
Officer Sgt. Andrew Lavigne said getting the Stars
sprayed with OC gives MPs a sense of
the chaos that follows the use of pepper SKIES Junior Dance
spray and prepares them to continue Company students
to control the situation if accidentally Kali Calhoun, 4; Liliana
sprayed. Fox-Gutierrez, 4; Aliyah
Certifying the first nine Reserve MPs Caulder, 5; Mia Mon-
to work on Fort Meade is just the start day, 5; Grace Jackson,
of an ongoing program in which the 5; and Audriana Nier,
241st MP will continue to train 200th 4, won two awards at
MPs either one weekend a month for four the StarQuest Regional
consecutive months or during two-week Performing Arts Com-
annual training periods to qualify them petition on May 5 at
to work on the installation. Northern High School
In return, the 241st MP can call on in Upper Marlboro.
these certified MPs to assist with special The Fort Meade group
events such as the Massing of the Col- received a specialty
ors, MeadeFest, military trials and other award, which was only
occasions as needed. Certified MPs also given to four teams,
will be able to work with the 241st MP on as well as the High
a monthly basis instead of attending its Gold Award, “Unlike
regular Reserve training, as permissible. All Others,” for its per-
“It’s a win-win for everyone,” Capt. formance of “Itsy Bitsy
Kristen Gary, of the 200th MP Com- Spider.”
mand, said. Photo courtesy
The arrangement came about, Gary of Elizabeth Lombardo
said, after working in the 200th MP’s
SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

7. N ews
Military families get free passes to national parks
Army News Service wife of Vice President Joe Biden. tions and service, we are putting out a
From Alcatraz Island to Zion “First Lady Michelle Obama and welcome mat for these brave men and
National Park, Soldiers and their fami- I started the Joining Forces initiative women and their families at America’s
lies can visit more than 2,000 national last year as a way to honor, recognize most beautiful and storied sites.” Follow Fort
parks, wildlife refuges, national forests, and support our veterans and military Military members and their depen-
and other public lands around the families,” Biden said. “This effort is a dents can pick up their passes at Meade at
nation this year without paying entry
fees.
wonderful way to give something back,
giving our military men and women
any national park or wildlife refuge
that charges an entrance fee or other
Twitter.com/
Beginning Saturday — Armed Forc- and their families a chance to recon- selected sites. They must show a valid ftmeademd
es Day — active-duty and activated nect with their loved ones, experience military identification card to obtain
Guard and Reserve service members the beauty of this country, and simply their pass. The pass is also available to
can pick up the new military version have a little fun.” dependent family members of active-
of the “America the Beautiful National At a ceremony Tuesday at Colonial duty personnel.
Parks and Federal Recreation Lands National Historical Park in Yorktown, Where there are entrance fees, the
Annual Pass.” Va., Secretary of the Interior Ken Sala- pass covers the owner and accompa-
The pass will be accepted at the zar, Director of the National Park Ser- nying passengers in a single, private,
National Park Service, U.S. Fish and vice Jon Jarvis and Assistant Secretary non-commercial vehicle at recreation
Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclama- of the Army (Civil Works) Jo-Ellen sites that charge per vehicle. At sites
tion, Bureau of Land Management, Darcy distributed the first passes to where per-person entrance fees are
U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army one member from each of the military’s charged, it covers the pass owner and
Corps of Engineer recreation sites that five branches. three accompanying adults age 16 and
charge entrance or standard amenity “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude older. There is no entry fee for children Connect with
fees. With the pass, those entry fees to our servicemen and women who 15 and under.
will be waived. make great sacrifices and put their For more information on the pass, Fort Meade at
The pass is part of the “Joining Forc- lives on the lines to protect our coun- visit: http://store.usgs.gov/pass/ Facebook.com/
es” initiative to support service mem- try and preserve our freedom,” Salazar A White House “Joining Forces” news
bers and their families, said Jill Biden, said. “In recognition of their contribu- release contributed to this article. ftmeade
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 17, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

8. N ews
‘American heroes’
Military spouses celebrated at appreciation luncheon
By Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer Audrey Rothstein,
Military spouses contribute greatly to wife of Garrison
the stability of their families and are the Commander
backbone of the armed forces. Col. Edward C.
That was the sentiment Audrey Roth- Rothstein, shares a
stein, wife of Garrison Commander Col. laugh with military
Edward C. Rothstein, shared with 85 mili- spouses including
tary spouses during the installation’s annual Debbie Alexander
Military Spouse Appreciation Luncheon on (right), wife of Gen.
May 10 at Club Meade. Keith B. Alexander,
“Whether you realize it or not, you volun- commander of
teered to join the Army, or the military, too, the U.S. Cyber
when you said ‘I do’ to your service member. Command, chief
And for that, you are immediately set apart of the Central
from all other spouses of the world,” she Security Service
said. “You stand above the others not only and director
for your strength, determination and resil- of the National
iency but also for your tremendous sacrifice Security Agency,
— and for some — the ultimate sacrifice.” at the installation’s
Audrey Rothstein and Frank Klein, hus- annual Military
band of Navy Rear Adm. Margaret Klein, Spouse
chief of staff, U.S. Cyber Command, were Appreciation
the guest speakers for the 90-minute event, Luncheon held
which was sponsored by Army Community May 10 at Club
Service. (See the Commander’s Column on Meade.
Page 2 for Audrey Rothstein’s remarks.)
“I think it was fantastic,” Natalie Overby, photos by
wife of Ensign James Overby of the Naval nate pesce
Information Operations Command, said of
the program. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard
anyone talk about how life is for military that the commitment of military spouses is “You take care of the family, you
spouses.” reflected in two national organizations. take care of the uniformed service mem-
Celena Flowers, Family Advocacy Pro- Klein spoke about the National Military ber, you take care of each other, you
gram manager at ACS, emceed the lun- Family Association founded in 1969 by a take care of Team Meade,” Klein said.
cheon. Garrison Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Sid group of military wives during the Vietnam “And you take care of our country’s
Taylor gave the invocation. War. The women wanted to make sure their defense.”
The event also was attended by Garrison widowed friends would be properly taken In his welcoming remarks, the gar-
Command Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith and care of after the death of their uniformed rison commander thanked Fort Meade’s
his wife, Audrey; and Debbie Alexander, spouse. military spouses for their commitment
wife of Gen. Keith B. Alexander, com- Two years later, the military’s Survivor to their service member and family.
mander of U.S. Cyber Command, chief of Benefit Plan became law. “We want to thank you for everything
the Central Security Service and director of “Congress didn’t do it without a push you’ve done to make us whole,” Col.
the National Security Agency. from people who cared,” Klein said. “And Rothstein said. “The backbone of our
In his remarks, Klein called military the people who cared were military spous- Soldiers and our service members really
spouses “American heroes.” es.” is the family, and that starts with you.”
“Real heroes see the right thing and they Klein also spoke about Bonnie Carroll, a The colonel called his wife an “incred- ‘What you have sacrificed
do the right thing, no matter the cost,” he major in the Air Force Reserve, who estab- ible caretaker” as the mother of their
said. “What you have sacrificed for your lished the Tragedy Assistance Program for two children, Sam and Emily. for your uniformed partner
uniformed partner to do what he or she does
is the right thing, and I have learned that it
Survivors in 1994 after her husband, Brig.
Gen. Tom Carroll, died in a plane crash.
“The strength she’s had and her per-
sonal courage mean a lot,” he said.
to do what he or she does
doesn’t come without a cost.” TAPS helps grieving families by providing After the event, Darryl Bradley, hus- is the right thing.’
Klein retired as a Navy commander in ongoing, peer-based emotional support. band of Navy Senior Chief Michele
2000. In August, he and his wife will have Carroll was a military wife who “chan- Brady, 10th Command/10th Fleet at Frank Klein, husband of U.S.
been married 30 years. They are the parents neled her grief into something positive — the National Security Agency, said the Cyber Command Chief of Staff
of two adult children. not for self, but for country,” Klein said. speeches were meaningful. Navy Rear Adm. Margaret Klein
Military spouses embody the statement Military spouses, he said, put aside their “It felt good that Colonel Rothstein
“not self, but country,” Klein said, noting personal ambitions to serve the greater good. and his wife said thank you,” he said.
SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

9. N ews
Service members lend hand at nonprofit farm
By Staff Sgt. Dillon White soil atop a ditch previously excavated
70th ISR Wing for a water pipe and pulled weeds
Public Affairs Office from a strawberry patch.
Along a rolling hill west of Bal- “This is probably my fifth or sixth
timore is a nonprofit farm operated time out,” said Senior Airman Lee
by full-time and part-time volunteers Sadler, while taking a break from
with the mission of alleviating hun- sawing lumber with a circular saw. “It
ger and improving nutrition. gives you experience, from carpentry
Every last pear, tomato and egg skills to working with animals.
they organically grow and raise is “The first time I came out I
donated to those in need. hauled clay in wheel barrows to
More than 30 Fort Meade service fill in washed-out areas of a road.
members were among the volunteers Other times I’ve planted tomatoes
on April 14. and flowers.”
“The [military] is a tremendous What brings Sadler back?
group,” said Jim Dasher, Garden Har- “It’s just fun; I absolutely recom-
vest executive director and founder. mend it,” he said. “It builds con-
“They’re certainly the hardest work- fidence and it’s a great chance to
ers, in shape, positive attitudes. What interact with other people.”
can I say?” That sentiment was shared by
Dasher said the farm produces many of the volunteers working on
some annual crops including 450 pear the farm, amid the pulsing white
trees, peaches, cherries and apples. noise of the air compressor powering
“All that is given away to local a nail gun and the scent of freshly
soup kitchens, anything that’s edi- PHOTO BY Airman 1st Class Samuel Daub tilled soil.
ble,” he said. “We do grow flowers to Staff Sgt. Carl Lund, of the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, After all the lifting, driving of nails,
sell, but the profit goes back toward and Kristine Klinger shovel topsoil to repair areas excavated for a water line on April shoveling and pushing of wheelbar-
operating costs for the farm.” 14 at Garden Harvest Farm, a nonprofit organization that relies on volunteers to rows, a ditch disappeared under a
Staff Sgt. Karen Strange, of the operate. All edible crops are donated to Baltimore area soup kitchens. layer of fresh top soil. A fence stood
70th Intelligence, Surveillance and where there had only been posts, and
Reconnaissance Wing, has volun- “The first time I volunteered here know a lot of people who would love strawberry plants had room to spread
teered at the farm for three years they talked to me about the mission to do this stuff.’ ” their roots, unimpeded by weeds.
and has become a primary point of they have and that they run solely on On April 14, volunteers rebuilt a For more information about Garden
contact for the program. volunteers,” she said. “I thought, ‘I 300-foot section of fence, shoveled Harvest, visit gardenharvest.org.
10 SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

10. N ews
Fort Meade students win big
By Pvt. Coby K. Smith students wrote a 1,000-word essay is the son of Chaplain (Capt.) Wyne
Marine Detachment Fort Meade focusing on how being the child of Hutchings of the 308th MI Battal-
The children of two Fort Meade an active-duty service member made ion.
service members are among 10 high them a qualified and deserving recipi- Hutchings said he learned about the
school students to each receive $50,000 ent for an academic scholarship. scholarship through a phone call he Photos courtesy Picerne Military Housing
college scholarships from Picerne Irby, daughter of Chief War- received while editing a video for his Annalisa Irby, a senior at Meade High
Military Housing’s private charitable rant Officer 3 Jonathan Irby of the YouTube series, “Nate Talks.” School, and Nate Hutchings, a senior
foundation. 704th Military Intelligence Battalion, After looking over the scholar- at Severna Park High School, won a
Our Family for Families First Foun- believed graduating as Meade High ship requirements and submitting $50,000 college scholarship awarded
dation awarded the scholarships to School’s valedictorian would give her his application, Hutchings received by Picerne Military Housing’s Our
Annalisa Irby and Nate Hutchings as a good chance at winning. another call. Family for Families First Foundation.
well as students from Aberdeen Prov- However, despite her confidence, “It was interesting because the per- Irby and Hutchings, children of Fort
ing Ground; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort the field hockey and tennis player said son who called me said that one of the Meade service members, are among
Riley, Kan.; and Fort Sill, Okla. she was still very excited when she things that made my application stand 10 high school students awarded
“The caliber of students apply- received the phone call informing her out was my YouTube series,” the 17- scholarships.
ing for our scholarships is excep- that she had won. year-old said. “They watched some of
tional,” said Maria Montalvo, the “Now, I don’t have to worry about my videos and liked the creativity.” service members.
foundation’s executive director. “All the financial burdens because they With interests that include video- “These are great kids,” said John
of the applicants — the children of have all been taken away,” said Irby, blogging, theater and music, Hutch- Picerne, president and CEO of Picerne
active-duty service members — are 18, who plans to pursue a doctorate ings is still deciding what to study. Military Housing, who founded Our
hard-working students who are active in veterinary medicine. Hutchings and Irby are part of the Family for Families First Founda-
in their schools and communities and Hutchings plans to use his schol- foundation’s seventh class of scholar- tion. “We are proud of them for what
more than deserving of a college arship to study at the University of ship recipients. The foundation has they’ve already achieved and are so
scholarship.” South Carolina Honors College. The awarded more than $3.5 million in happy to be part of the what they
As a part of the application process, Severna Park High School student scholarships to families of active-duty will become.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 17, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

11. N ews
Toy story
First Army launches toy
drive for Afghan children
By Tim Shannon By the program’s end, more than 400
First Army Division East Public Affairs toys were gathered and distributed.
Bringing smiles to Afghan children “Many of us have family and friends
wasn’t covered in mobilization training back home who want to help in some
nor listed on most Afghanistan trainers- way and this was the best opportunity,”
mentors’ “to-do” lists. Daniels said.
But when one First Army Division Headquartered at Fort Meade, First
East Reservist started thinking about Army Division East mobilizes, trains,
the children in his area, the idea took validates, deploys and demobilizes
root and was supported by other mem- Reserve Component troops. First Army
bers of his team. trainer-mentor teams are primarily
While deployed as a trainer-mentor tasked with providing Afghan soldiers
in Afghanistan, Capt. Chad Daniels, with security training.
1-335th Infantry Battalion, 205th Infan- “We wanted to include the Afghan
try Brigade, First Army Division East, National Army [in the toy drive] as well,
photos courtesy first army division east
wanted to reach out to the children in so we worked with the religious and
his area of operation, Pol-e-charki. cultural affairs officer with the Kandak Afghan children examine donated school supplies with Capt. Chad Daniels (upper
Daniels and fellow trainers from the Battalion,” Daniels said. top right), trainer-mentor for the 1-335th Infantry Battalion, 205th Infantry Brigade,
First Army team hatched an idea to The joint effort went even further. who started a toy drive to reach out to the children in his area of operation. Coalition
partner enthusiastic volunteers in the “We also made great relationships partners contributed to the joint effort.
United States with local school chil- with Soldiers from the Romanian and
dren. Jordanian [armies], so we asked them joint effort. grown-ups in combat uniforms with side
The plan was for the American volun- if they wanted to help as well,” Daniels “Basically, we solicited the charity arms on,” Balica said. “But the curios-
teers to collect toys and school supplies said. “It was truly a coalition effort.” of our friends and family and they ity of seeing what was inside the school
that would be taken by First Army Sol- Sgt. 1st Class Bryan Reese, 1-409th, responded in true American fashion,” supplies bag overcame the initial fear
diers to Afghanistan to be distributed to 4th Cavalry Brigade, praised the efforts Reese said. “Additionally, Captain Dan- and they started to laugh, talk loudly
Afghan children. of all those who participated in the iels extended the invitation to help to — things normal for a little child.”
our coalition partners, which put an Daniels agreed.
Afghan face to the mission. Everyone “The children were very thankful,”
helped with consolidating supplies and he said. “They were noticeably shy at
distribution.” first but soon opened up, and the smiles
Among those involved was Jordanian came.”
Air Traffic Controller Maj. Khaldoun Sgt. 1st Class Alex Almeida, 1-307th
Ali Bani Melhem. Infantry Battalion, 174th Infantry Bri-
“Participating in this made me happy,” gade said this was the first time he
Melhem said. “This project was excel- had ever volunteered for an overseas
lent for the children and Soldiers, and project.
supporting families also. No pen can “This is my first time doing something
describe the feelings of that day.” like this and it feels very fulfilling and
While the Soldiers enjoyed themselves rewarding,” he said. “It only takes one
throughout the process, the Afghan chil- person to make a change.”
dren were a little apprehensive. Maj. Ciprian Balica, an intelligence
“They were a bit reluctant at first, officer with the 341st Infantry, Roma-
considering the image of a bunch of nian army, said he could see his own
children in the happy faces of the
Capt. Chad Daniels (upper left), trainer- Afghan children as they received the
mentor for the 1-335th Infantry Battalion, toys and school supplies.
205th Infantry Brigade, loads boxes of “It felt real supportive to be able to
school supplies with volunteers from bring a moment of happiness and a
the Afghan National Army. Daniels and smile on those little kids as they live in
volunteers from First Army Division a dangerous environment,” Balica said.
East collected more than 400 toys and “Since I have two toddlers myself, I saw
numerous school supplies for the children the same joy as my kids would have had
of Pol-e-Charki, Afghanistan. when they received something.”
12 SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

12. C over S tory
Super strength
NSA personnel compete for
Super Squad bragging rights
By Brandon Bieltz his five teammates.
Staff Writer The team of Marines was among five
During his second lap around McGla- groups of service members who competed
chlin Parade field lugging a 25-pound ruck May 8 in the annual Super Squad as part
sack on his back, long-distance runner of the National Security Agency’s Armed
Marine Maj. Chris Paes was beginning to Forces Week.
wear out. Groups of six from all military branches
“Mentally, this was almost a road block and the NSA Police competed in the 5.75-
for me,” he said. “After the last lap, it was mile course that consisted of shooting,
like, ‘Really? I have to do this again?’ ” swimming, an obstacle course, ruck runs
But Paes fought through the fatigue and and various exercises or drills between
continued on his route, even though he runs.
would soon shoulder a 200-pound log with “The Super Squad builds camaraderie
photos by sarah pastrana
National Security Agency Police Officer Brandon Davilla assembles an M-16 rifle at
McGlachlin Parade Field during the Super Squad competition. Five teams of NSA
personnel competed in the May 8 competition to kick off Armed Forces Week.
Members of the Navy Super Squad team
carry Information Systems Technician
Petty Officer 1st Class Chip Hoffman
during the casualty evacuation task.
Teams were required to carry one member
of their team for a quarter-mile.
RIGHT: Sgt. Machem Harrison (left) runs
alongside teammates who are carrying a
200-pound log led by Spc. Connor Lefler.
After completing 5.5 miles of the course,
Marine Capt. Ryan Marty competes in the swimming portion of the Super Squad event competitors finished the race by carrying
at Gaffney Fitness Center’s indoor pool. All team members swam two laps to begin the log a quarter-mile to the finish line at
the timed competition. McGlachlin Parade Field.
14 SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

13. and fosters friendly competition between tively,” Engle said. tion of the event about 15 minutes apart. “We pushed hard today,” NSA Police
services and the police,” said Master Gun- For the Marines, training was more From then on, teams ran through the Officer Tim Doub said. “It’s a great feel-
nery Sgt. Garry Engle of the Marine Cryp- intense than last year and included more installation with 25-pound ruck sacks on ing.”
tologic Support Battalion, which hosted time in the pool and at the obstacle their backs, stopping at several stations Elledge credited his teammates with
the event. course. to perform more tasks. They included urging him to finish the race despite a leg
Last year, the Marines finished the com- “It’s just like everything else, whether it’s carrying a teammate for a quarter-mile, injury.
petition in first place, narrowly beating the Super Bowl champions or the World an obstacle course, memory test and rifle “My team was great,” he said. “They
Navy and the NSA Police, who all finished Series champions, you have a target on you. disassembly and assembly. pushed me a lot further than I antici-
within a few minutes of each other. This Everybody wants a piece of No. 1,” Paes Competitors said the stopping and start- pated.”
year, Engle was expecting another close said. “That motivated us. ... We were more ing along the route made the event even The Marines were announced the win-
race. determined this year.” more difficult. ners during a brief awards ceremony that
“All the teams are coming ready to win The Super Squad began at the NSA “It’s not something you want to take featured Brig. Gen. Jim Keffer, deputy
this year,” he said. “It’s anyone’s game.” range, with competitors shooting five lightly,” Sgt. Chris Elledge said. chief of the Central Security Service and
Many of the teams were formed months rounds from a 9 mm pistol at targets 25 The first stop of the 5.75-mile run was at National Security Agency. The Marines
ago after careful scouting in the units. yards away. Each team member’s shots the Marine obstacle course on Zimborski finished the competition with a time of
Looking at physical fitness tests and gen- were judged on site, with accuracy affect- Avenue, where each member ran through 1:49:03.
eral athletic abilities, units narrowed selec- ing time penalties. For hitting the “X,” 10 the course twice. A more than 2-mile run “It feels real awesome,” Paes said of the
tions down to a handful of candidates. seconds were subtracted from each team’s to the parade field followed, with exercise Marines’ second consecutive win. “That’s
From there, six were selected to be team final time. stations for burpies and push-ups along your goal — to win.”
members, while the others served as safety Competitors then drove to Gaffney Fit- the way. NSA Police finished second, with a final
runners or coaches. ness Center to begin the timed portion of Once at the parade field, teams ran three time of 2:04:27.
While some teams began training togeth- the event. The moment the first team mem- laps around the perimeter for a total of Third- through fifth-place finishers were
er months ago, members from other teams ber dove into the pool for the two-lap swim, 3.25 miles. Similar to their run to McGla- only separated by four minutes, with the
such as the NSA Police had to train indi- the clock began ticking and wouldn’t stop chlin, tasks were thrown in during the laps Army taking third at 2:14:28. The Air
vidually due to schedule conflicts. until the entire team crossed the finish line. such as a bear crawl and map reading. Force took fourth at 2:16:48. Navy finished
“It took a lot of training to do this effec- Ultimately, teams started the timing por- After the final lap, one task remained with a time of 2:18:36.
for the teams — carrying a 200-pound log Despite the bruises and exhaustion,
a quarter-mile to the finish line. most participants said they will continue
At the finish line, teams threw down the to compete in future Super Squads.
log and could finally take a break. Several “Something’s wrong with us,” Elledge
competitors said they were glad the event said with a laugh. “I don’t know why we
was finally over and they could rest. do it.”
Air Force Tech. Sgt. David Perez makes his way through bars at the Marine obstacle
course. Perez and five other Airmen competed for bragging rights in the grueling
Super Squad.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 17, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 15

14. S ports
In The
Swim
Hours for Picerne Military
Housing pools:
• May 28 through June 8: Weekdays from 4 to
8 p.m., and weekends and holidays from 11
a.m. to 8 p.m.
• June 9 through Aug. 26: Sunday through
Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday
and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Aug. 27 through Sept. 3: Weekdays from 4
to 8 p.m., and weekends and holidays from 11
a.m. to 8 p.m.
Pools are open to residents. Residents may
bring up to four guests per family.
Residents must provide pool passes to access
the pool. Those with a pass from 2011 do not
need a new pass.
To pick up a pool pass, visit your neighborhood
center.
Installation pools file photo
• The Rock Avenue Outdoor Pool will not open this season due to budget constraints. The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation is
exploring alternative options in the area. • Recreational swim is offered at Gaffney Fitness Center on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Gaffney brings in new instructors for improved fitness schedule
By Brandon Bieltz Virginia].” as it gets in terms of certifications and the bells and body bars, will be offered three
Staff Writer The new cost for classes will cover the desire to give back to their community,” times during the week.
This week, Gaffney Fitness Center instructors’ wages and new equipment for Gibbs said. “We wanted this to be a seam- Yoga, which helps develop strength,
rolled out its updated schedule of courses, the courses. less transition for the volunteer instructors muscle tone and flexibility, will be instruct-
the result of a contract that will provide One advantage of the new contract is and the customers they serve.” ed Mondays and Thursdays.
new instructors for aerobics and fitness that it will provide stability for Gaffney’s The contract also brings flexibility to Water aerobics classes that consist of
classes. programs. the new schedule. a series of workouts including running,
Patrons now will be required to pur- In the past, certified volunteers taught Lauren Williams, acting chief of Athlet- jumping jacks, and leg and arm move-
chase a $65 aerobics card for unlimited the courses at no charge. The arrange- ics, Fitness and Aquatics for the DFMWR, ments, also will be offered twice a week.
classes during an eight-week span, or pay ment, however, occasionally resulted in said the schedule will run on an eight-week Officials will design the schedules based
a $5 drop-in charge per class. Officials at canceled classes or a change in schedule. cycle, with the option to change the sched- on patron feedback through customer
the Directorate of Family and Morale, “We were having quite a few issues with ule at the end of each cycle. With this for- surveys.
Welfare and Recreation say the fee is some of the volunteers in terms of cancel- mat, Gaffney is not limited to the number “We will review our schedule in approx-
comparable to local gyms and other instal- ing classes, showing up late or no-shows,” or types of classes offered. imately three weeks and put out a survey
lations. Gibbs said. “We didn’t have a consistent Water aerobics, yoga and power pump to determine what classes our customers
“We compared what some of the local class schedule as they were changing every are the three new classes that will be like, what they would like to see and what
military installations are charging and other week. This created some customer introduced during the first cycle. Popular times they would like them,” Gibbs said.
aligned our fees with them,” said Wendy service issues.” programs, including early morning spin “This will assist us with making the neces-
Gibbs, chief of community recreation Most of the volunteer instructors were classes and Zumba, will continue to be sary changes to meet our patrons’ fitness
with DFMWR. “We are a little cheaper invited to continue to teach their classes offered. needs.”
than Fort Belvoir and comparable to and get paid. Power Pump, a complete body muscle- Editor’s note: Visit ftmeademwr.com for
Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall [both in “Our volunteer instructors are as good conditioning workout using bands, dumb- the schedule.
16 SOUNDOFF! May 17, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil