DOD-Department of Defense 2

Gates, Mullen Regret Civilian Casualties

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2010 - Expressing deep regret over civilian casualties resulting from a NATO air strike yesterday, Pentagon civilian and military leaders said today they support the strategy that puts as much emphasis on protecting the Afghan population as capturing or killing insurgents.

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, pointed to challenges the military is facing in Marja, Afghanistan, as an indication of the challenges U.S. and coalition forces face as they help Afghan security forces reverse enemy momentum there.

Mullen reported steady progress in Marja, while conceding that it's developing "a bit slower than anticipated." Still, the chairman said, he's encouraged by the work under way, the focus on protecting the population, and by the bravery being demonstrated by the Afghan people, their security forces and the coalition troops. "By all accounts, the Taliban's resistance has been at best, disjointed," he said.

"But we have experienced difficulties," the chairman acknowledged. "In some places, the enemy fights harder than expected."

And, enemy-emplaced roadside bombs "although crude, are still deadly," Mullen pointed out.

The admiral declined to share details about yesterday's air strike incident while the investigation continues, but he offered condolences to the families of those killed.

"Yesterday's terrible loss of innocent civilians reminds us of just how fragile any move we make can ultimately be," Mullen said.

Gates noted that Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan, has made protecting the civilian population a keystone of his strategy. "General McChrystal is more on top of the importance of avoiding civilian casualties, and the strategic consequences of civilian casualties, than anybody," he said.

Mullen said the U.S. military's emphasis on protecting Afghanistan's civilians has been reinforced throughout the chain of command. "It is the focus of the military leadership right down to the unit level," he said. But Mullen also cited the challenges these troops face in preventing civilian casualties in light of the "very difficult environment" they are working under, and the split-second decisions they must make in combat.

"The thing to remember is that we're at war," echoed Gates. "General McChrystal is doing everything humanly possible to avoid civilian casualties. But it is also a fact that the Taliban mingle with civilians, [and] they use them for cover."

This, the secretary said, "obviously complicates any decision process by a commander on the ground in knowing whether he's dealing with the Taliban or innocent civilians, or a combination of the two."

Asked if McChrystal's restrictions on the use of air power have gone too far in tying ground troops' hands as they fight the enemy, Gates deferred to his ground commander.

"My thought is that I'm not going to try and second-guess Stan McChrystal from 9,000 miles away," Gates said. "He's the commander. I have confidence in his judgment. I'll leave it to him to make those decisions about the right balance. Just as he is concerned about civilian casualties, he is also deeply concerned about the potential for American and coalition casualties."
Mullen reminded reporters of what he called "an essential truth" regarding warfare.

"War is bloody and uneven. It is messy and ugly and incredibly wasteful," he said. "But that doesn't mean it is not worth the cost. We must steel ourselves, no matter how successful we are on a given day, for harder days yet to come."

The chairman warned against overconfidence about progress being made in Marja, or in Afghanistan overall. One event, he said, can't be viewed as a trend.

"If we have learned nothing else these past eight years, it is that failure makes itself plainly clear, but success takes longer to see," Mullen said. "We will see success in Marja, but we must be patient. ... The long view here is the best view."

It's still too soon, Mullen said, to put a black-or-white label on operations in Afghanistan overall by saying that the coalition is winning or losing. "I think we are headed in the right direction, we have the right leadership, the right strategy, the right resources," he said. "And I think we can succeed."

Gates shared McChrystal's sentiment that the situation in Afghanistan has gone from "serious and deteriorating" to "serious but no longer deteriorating." He also expressed optimism about Pakistan's role in the recent captures of several high-profile insurgent leaders, including Abdul Ghani Baradar.

"What we are seeing is the importance of operations on both sides of the border, and a manifestation of real progress, on the Pakistani side, of dealing with the threats that I've talked about," Gates said.

Gates noted that the Pakistani Taliban, Afghan Taliban and al-Qaida all work together and share in each other's successes.

"So I think that the recent events have been another positive indication of the Pakistanis' commitment to stabilizing this border area," he said.

Haitian women sit on rubble from a collapsed building in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

U.S. Army soldiers and Haitian service members load medical patients aboard a Navy MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter Jan. 21, 2010

A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft drops pallets of water and food over Mirebalais, Haiti, Jan. 21, 2010

Official Highlights Reserves' Role in Haiti Response

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2010 - With the number of U.S. forces in Haiti expected to rise to more than 18,000 in coming days, a top military reserve official yesterday reflected on reservists' role in the immediate aftermath of the Jan. 12 earthquake that devastated the Caribbean nation.

Badly needed C-130 Hercules aircraft belonging to the Air National Guard were among the first planes to fly U.S. humanitarian assistance missions to the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince in the wake of the magnitude 7 quake, said Dennis M. McCarthy, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs.

"The most immediate response was Air National Guard personnel and aircraft who were already on duty in support of [U.S. Southern Command] in a standing commitment," McCarthy said in an interview with the Pentagon Channel. "They were able to respond within hours of the beginning of the Southcom response, and were among the first people into Port-au-Prince."

Some estimate the quake killed between 100,000 to 200,000 people, and the Red Cross estimates some 3 million people have been affected. As of yesterday, the United States had delivered 1.4 million bottles of water, 700,000 meals and 22,000 pounds of medical equipment, which are being disbursed from some 100 distribution sites.

Soon after the dust settled in Haiti, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates recommended that President Barack Obama exercise what's known as the Presidential Selected Reserve Call-Up Authority. The order provides the president a means to activate, without a declaration of national emergency, certain members of the selected reserve to meet additional requirements if they arise.

On Jan. 16, Obama signed the order, which then permitted the Defense Department to activate reserve-component servicemembers such as reserve medical personnel, to backfill for those deployed aboard the USNS Comfort, and authorized the and Homeland Security Department to activate a Coast Guard unit for port security.

The prerogative largely hasn't been invoked to tap additional forces for Haiti operations, McCarthy said, but it does provide the department added flexibility.

"Frankly, it hasn't been used very much yet," he said, "but it is an authority available to the secretary should he need it later on."

While the bulk of the reserve contribution has come in the form of C-130s, C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft and helicopters, the reserve components also have contributed to the medical side of the U.S. relief effort.

Medical response is another way the reserve component is contributing. The hospital ship USNS Comfort, for example, has many naval reserve personnel aboard on its humanitarian deployment to Haiti -- "again, supplementing the active component response, not replacing it," McCarthy said.

Though reserve elements don't bring to the mission any capabilities that aren't already present in their active-duty counterparts, McCarthy said, military reserves "thicken" the assets that exist.

"The reserve component is an essential complementary aspect of this all-volunteer force that we're fortunate to have in the United States," he said.

Coordinators Work to Facilitate Relief Flights

By Judith Snyderman
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2010 - U.S. military officials are working across organizational boundaries in a concerted effort to keep supplies and people flowing into Haiti's main airport, Air Force officers said yesterday.

"Port-au-Prince is the center of gravity for the relief effort currently in Haiti," said Lt. Col. Brad Graff of the 601st Air and Space Operations Center at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., during a "DoDLive" bloggers roundtable. "If something happens to that airfield, we are in trouble to get supplies there until the sea pods are open."

Graff said he's aware of frustration expressed by relief groups requesting flight landing slots, but he noted the Port-au-Prince airport is running "24/7" and is averaging 140 flights a day.

"We've tripled the flow through that field, so your chances of getting in are better now than ever," he said. "You just do need to follow the procedures that are in place."

Graff said the procedures aren't meant to limit the airfield. "We like to think of ourselves as facilitators that are allowing people to get in there in a more-timely manner," he said.

Air Force Col. John Romero, chief of the air mobility division for the 612th Air and Space Operations Center at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., also participated in the discussion. He explained that the command structure brings the full breadth of U.S. military expertise to the table to keep operations in Haiti running quickly and safely.

Due to the emergency, Romero said, his organization -- which usually supports U.S Southern Command, is supported by the 601st, which normally handles U.S. Northern Command's area. U.S. Southern Command is in charge of the Defense Department's Haiti mission.

"We are working in concert with the 601st air operations center, who really has the role of the Haiti flight operations coordination center," Romero said. "They are really the individual entity that is managing the slot times into Port-au-Prince airport."

Air Force Maj. David Smith, who reports to Graff, added that the 601st flight operations coordination center was set up from lessons learned in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Smith said having a single point of coordination is a strategy that proved effective during recent relief efforts for Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

During those hurricane missions, the 612th established liaisons with the Federal Aviation Administration. Romero said he has brought those relationships to bear in support of the Haiti mission to ensure safety at the Port-au-Prince airport.

Romero said the 612th is controlling U.S. military aircraft carrying military supplies and personnel into Haiti, and that those missions follow the same procedures as everyone else to request time slots for landing, with no special priorities.

Options for bringing relief to Haiti are expanding, Romero said. Canada is operating a small Haitian airstrip at Jacmel, and officials of the U.S. Air Force's Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., coordinated two successful air deliveries yesterday.

"They did a fantastic job; on time, on target - 40 bundles for each aircraft at two different locations, delivering humanitarian relief supplies to the people there in Haiti of water and meals," he said.

Graff has reached out to Haiti's neighbor, the Dominican Republic. "They have been more than helpful in opening up other areas that we can now flow relief supplies into," he said. Dominican Republic officials are expected to allow use of San Isidro Airport outside Santo Domingo and Maria Montez airport in Barahona.

"We are doing the best we can, working with the individuals on the ground, to make sure that the right priorities are identified and that we can flow those priorities [into Haiti]," he said. "But I want everyone to know we want to do that safely."
 

Comfort Crew Settles into Busy Reality

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Jan. 21, 2010 - The USNS Comfort lived up to its name today as the medics and crew of the hospital ship continued to provide medical aid to the residents of this devastated land.

 

 

Medical personnel aboard the USNS Comfort hospital ship examine a Haitian patient, background, while another patient waits for an operating room, Jan. 21, 2010, Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The ship is in Haiti to treat patients from the Jan. 12 magnitude 7 earthquake. DoD photo by Jim Garamone (

In short, it was a very busy day as the medics tended to some of the most challenging cases caused by the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck Jan. 12. By mid-afternoon today, more than 160 Haitian patients were admitted to the floating hospital.

Surgeries were performed almost around the clock. There were nine yesterday -- the first day -- with the last finished at 4:30 this morning. The operating room personnel began work again two hours later.

The intensive care units and wards were beginning to fill to capacity of 1,000 beds. "We have never had that number on the ship, but we can do it," Navy Dr. (Capt.) Jim Ware, the medical group commander, said.

More medical professionals are arriving, and all are highly motivated. "We had critical care nurses show up today, and after they signed in, they put their scrubs on and went to work," said Command Master Chief Chip Collins, the Comfort's top enlisted sailor. "They said, 'I can put my stuff away later. Where do you need me?'"

And the help is needed. On the main deck, litter bearers bring patients to the casualty receiving area after they are unloaded from helicopters on the flight deck. The elevator door opens and litter bearers come onto the red deck of the receiving area.

"Six," says Navy Lt. Cmdr. Dan D'Aurora, who "owns" the area. D'Aurora is a nurse and a force of nature. All of the medical personnel in CASREC have their names and ranks printed on surgical tape on their shirts or scrubs. D'Aurora's shirt has another across the back with the word, "Bulldog."

The litter bearers bring the litter to Bay 6 where they are met by doctors, nurses and corpsmen who transfer the patient from the litter to the bed. "Get the bed the same height," says a nurse as corpsmen crank the bed up to transfer the patient. "On three. One, two, three – lift!"

Some patients have breathing tubes and a corpsman presses a bladder to ensure air gets in the patient's lungs. Other corpsmen and nurses hook the patient to monitors.

The doctor looks at the patient and any records. All check over the patient to ensure some injury hasn't been overlooked. If X-rays are ordered, a technician brings a portable machine over and the lifting – or turning -- process begins again.

Treatment takes many forms. One doctor performed a spinal tap on a young Haitian boy. Another read an X-ray and sent the patient immediately to the operating room. Still another looked to see that the broken leg was set correctly, then sent the patient directly to one of the wards.

Sailors who serve as translators are an integral part of the team. Most were born in Haiti and emigrated to the United States with their families. They are the conduit that doctors and nurses use to communicate with the Haitian patients.

"They have been nothing short of fantastic," D'Aurora said. "When we were here last year for [Exercise] Continuing Promise, we didn't have the patients because we couldn't communicate. We learned."

While there are some cries of pain, the patients are pretty stoic. "Again, it helps there's someone there who speaks their language," D'Aurora said.

There are a number of bays in CASREC, and several times today, they were all filled. The process works quickly and smoothly and is getting smoother as the medics gain experience.

"This isn't 'ER,'" said Navy Dr. (Cmdr.) Tim Donahue, the chief of surgery. "People work quietly and quickly. This is real life. Not TV."

The medics sometimes move quickly. "Running man!" yells one corpsman as a nurse comes into CASREC at a full sprint with needed equipment.

The patients come in all shapes, sizes and ages. A baby was born on the Comfort today. Both mother and daughter are doing well.

In another bay, Charlene, who is five, hugs a teddy bear she received when she got to the ship. She has a bandage on her left foot, but medics are concerned about her sight. Navy Dr. (Capt.) Terence McGee places eye drops in to dilate her pupils. She is a brave young lady as the doctor looks in her eyes. When he finishes the examination, she begins to cry so he picks her up. He asks if she has an escort – her mom or dad – and is told no.

"Five years old and alone," he says, and continues to rock her back and forth.

 

Related Sites:
Special Report: Haiti Earthquake Relief

 

	Two medical professionals aboard the USNS Comfort hospital ship treat a Haitian woman in the casualty receiving portion of the ship, Jan. 21, 2010, off the coast of Haiti. DoD photo by Jim Garamone
	Doctors discuss patient care aboard the USNS Comfort hospital ship, Jan. 21, 2010 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. DoD photo by Jim Garamone

Belgians Recall Battle of the Bulge

By Christie Vanover
Special to American Forces Press Service

CHIEVRRES, Belgium, Dec. 3, 2009 - It was the early days of the Battle of the Bulge. Germans were advancing into Belgium, and the supplies they needed to strengthen their force were close at hand, until the bravery of a lone rifle company helped to halt their advance.

 

 

Veterans of the 5th Belgian Fusiliers Battalion march down the streets of Bastogne, Belgium, in the 2008 Battle of the Bulge Parade. Marcel D'Haese, center, is the chairman of the 5th Fusilier War Veterans Association, and Robert Lemaire, far right, is a longtime member. U.S. Army photo by Cis Spook

It was Dec. 18, 1944, in the Belgian town of Stavelot. "The U.S. Army evacuated the city, and the 5th Battalion was the only one between this treasure and the Germans," recalled Robert Lemaire, a Belgian soldier who was assigned to the company.

The day prior, German Col. Joachim Peiper and his 1st SS Panzer Regiment were quickly moving through Belgian villages, destined to reach the Meuse River and Allied supply ports in Antwerp. His army plowed through towns like Honsfeld and Büllingen, capturing and killing unarmed Americans.

While the SS Regiment faced casualties and lost tanks and vehicles along the way, Peiper moved them on toward Stavelot. His tanks crossed the only bridge leading into the village and launched a morning attack, capturing the city. Lemaire, who was guarding the American fuel depots while his company was attached to the 1st U.S. Army, recalled that Peiper executed 132 civilians in Stavelot, including numerous children.

Americans repositioned their forces to set up a perimeter defense. However, Lemaire's company was left behind along the Malmedy road.

"In a hurry, packed in a truck," he recalled, "we left our billets in direction of the depot. As we came closer, our lieutenant asked for 10 volunteers."

Lemaire was among the first to jump off the truck, along with Sgts. Harpigny, Magain, Vermeulen, Cpl. Suinen and fellow Pvts. Robert Delbois, Robert Tille, Alfred Cantigneau, Elomir Cambier, Jean Lesire, Paul Wantiez and F. Ingels. Their mission: to set fire to the fuel depot to prevent the SS from retrieving the supplies needed to rejuvenate their offensive.

"The lieutenant ordered us to set fire to the three first piles," Lemaire recalled. "As the first attempt to shoot tracer bullets with a Bren gun failed, we then pierced jerry cans with our bayonets and spread fuel on the three first piles, as well as, a trail of fuel on the road ahead of the piles. We set the fire with matches."

Within moments, the entire depot was engulfed in a trail of flames, stretching seven miles long. "It was impossible for the armored tanks to go through this wall of fire," said Lemaire.

According to the Office of the Chief of Military History, as the gasoline roadblock was still enflamed, the Americans launched a full-fledged ground and air assault against the Panzer unit, reclaiming the town.

Engineers had destroyed the Amblève Bridge that would have allowed the Germans to retreat to their fuel depots to the east, and Lemaire and his company had destroyed the fuel supplies in Stavelot, preventing Peiper from advancing much further.

"We began to realize that we had insufficient gasoline to cross the bridge west of Stoumont," Peiper said in January 1945, as reported by the Office of the Chief of Military History. The German powerhouse of heavy vehicles became meager road debris inefficient against the Allied forces. On Christmas Eve, the regiment was forced to abandon its vehicles and continue the battle on foot.

At the time, Lemaire didn't realize the impact that striking a match would have on defeating the Germans. "We just did our job," he said. It was a job that he had waited four years to accomplish.

Lemaire and a fellow soldier, Marcel D'Haese, began fighting the Germans in 1940. The Belgian Army had surrendered that year, and the Germans put out an order that all young men were to report to Germany as laborers. Therefore, D'Haese said the Belgians made the choice to start a resistance.

"At the beginning of the war, I received an obligation to go to Germany," said Lemaire, "so I became a resistance fighter."

"The resistance was really active in Belgium," said D'Haese. "We were doing sabotage to the Germans, like cutting the communications lines." But despite their heroic actions to defend their nation and "four dark years of underground fight and suffering", D'Haese said, "We waited and we prayed for the Americans."

"Americans brought power, engines and weapons. They were like God to us. They were the only ones that could help to liberate us," he said.

After the Allies jumped into Normandy and later liberated Belgium, the Belgian government called for volunteers. D'Haese said 53,000 men answered that call and joined the newly formed Belgian army.

D'Haese and Lemaire joined the 5th Belgian Fusiliers Battalion, which was made up of six companies from the Mons, Tournai and Charleroi regions. D'Haese, who is now 84, was assigned to the Headquarters Company and Lemaire, who is now 86, the 3rd Company.

The unit was officially activated on Oct. 7, 1944, and the volunteers, who had already been defending their country unofficially, enlisted on Oct. 9.

After two months of training in Charleroi, they joined the First U.S. Army and deployed to the Ardennes where the battalion was divided amongst the American forces. The battalion had 800 men dispersed over 30 miles, according to D'Haese.

"They call us war volunteers. Indeed, we are freedom volunteers," stressed D'Haese. "We were sick about war. We helped the Americans to finish it. We were ready to do anything we could for the Americans."

"If the U.S. did not liberate Belgium, the Germans would still be here," he added.

The 5th Fusilier partnered with the 1st U.S. Army until June 1, 1945. Throughout the war, five members of the battalion were killed, and 80 more injured.

The unit and its actions were recognized by Army Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, the supreme commander, on July 13, 1945, in a memo that stated: "This battalion contributed materially to the successful operations of the unit with which it served. The high Esprit de Corps and great determination displayed by the officers and men of the Fifth Belgian Fusilier Battalion enabled it to carry through to a successful conclusion each and every assigned mission, thereby contributing immeasurably to the glorious victory of the Allied Nations. The outstanding achievements of this battalion bring credit not only to itself but also to the Belgian Army."

Since that time, many other Americans have recognized the accomplishments of the 5th Fusilier, including U.S. presidents, senators, ambassadors, generals and the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux.

The unit established the 5th Fusilier War Veterans Association in 1945, and D'Haese has served as the chairman since 1980.

"I accepted the role as chairman for six months, and I'm still here," he laughed.

The veterans join the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux color guard on a regular basis to commemorate the American-Belgian partnership that was formed 65 years ago, but that partnership is slowly fading.

"We have 40 to 50 members left in the battalion," said D'Haese, "but less than 10 are able to participate in ceremonies."

In May, a small group remembered the anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in Mons.

On Dec. 12, a few make the annual trip to Bastogne to pay tribute again to the cold, smog-filled days of December 1944 and the allegiance with the Americans that brought liberty to their nation.

"God bless the USA and Belgium," said D'Haese.

(Christie Vanover works for U.S. Army Garrison Benelux.)
 

	Frans Marique, a 5th Belgian Fusiliers Battalion veteran, carries his battalion colors alongside U.S. Army Spc. Jonathan Edwards to honor Victory in Europe Day in Mons, Belgium, in 2008. U.S. Army photo by Christie Vanover
	Robert Lemaire was one of the few Belgian soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Bulge. The Belgian army surrendered to the Germans in 1940, but was re-activated in 1944. Lemaire joined the 5th Belgian Fusiliers Battalion, which was made up of six companies from the Mons, Tournai and Charleroi regions. Courtesy photo
	Marcel D'Haese was one of the few Belgian soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Bulge. The Belgian army surrendered to the Germans in 1940, but was re-activated in 1944. D'Haese joined the 5th Belgian Fusiliers Battalion, which was made up of six companies from the Mons, Tournai and Charleroi regions. Courtesy photo

Chairman Explains Significance of July 2011 Target

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2009 - July 2011 is not a withdrawal date, but a specific target date for beginning to transition security responsibility to Afghan forces, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said on several morning talk shows today.

"We've been given very clear direction from the president to start the transfer of responsibility for security to the Afghan security force," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said on "American Morning" on CNN. "July of 2011 is a time where we can start to transition, ... but it's not a hard deadline to leave."

Only time will tell how many Afghan forces will be ready to accept security responsibility, Mullen said. "There's ... a sense of urgency that the Afghan security forces become engaged heavily in training, in taking the lead," he added.

About 60,000 of the 96,000 soldiers in the Afghan National Army are operating in the field in partnership with U.S. military units, Mullen said on CBS' "The Early Show," though not many are yet in the lead in operations. "There are very few," he acknowledged, "but not unlike Iraq, that's the challenge. We've got to work with them."

To help to accomplish this task and bolster other U.S. efforts in Afghanistan, the president has authorized the deployment of an additional 30,000 troops. The vast majority of them will arrive in country by mid-summer, Mullen said. Training Afghan security forces is certainly a top priority, he added, but it's just one piece of the strategy for winning the war in Afghanistan. A government that represents all of its people also is crucial, he noted.

The question asked on NBC's "Today Show" was whether Afghan President Hamid Karzai is capable of reaching out to the different groups in Afghanistan and decentralizing the government.

"I think he knows his people very well," Mullen said. "I think he can reach out ... he's very clearly a critical partner in all this.

"He's appointed some good ministers," he added. "We're anxious to make sure that those appointments – or reappointments – are solid, that he does the same thing with provincial governors, and that, in fact, the governance aspect in Afghanistan is not just centralized in Kabul, but good governance gets generated right down through the local level as well."

In addition, the United States is interested in having members of the Taliban who would prefer to be part of the solution rather than the problem talk with high-level U.S. officials, Mullen said.

"That's very much part of the strategy," he said. "We're hopeful that that would be part of the strategic shift, if you will, embedded in this new strategy."

The reconciliation and reintegration of Taliban would happen only under very specific conditions, the chairman said. They must "actually put down their weapons ... [and] no longer engage in the kind of insurgency that we're seeing regularly," he explained.

Department Focuses on F-35 Costs, Fair Tanker Competition

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK, Dec. 3, 2009 - Pentagon officials are working to halt spiraling costs in the F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter aircraft program, while ensuring competition for a new refueling tanker remains fair to all contenders, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III said here yesterday.

Lynn told the Aerospace and Defense Conference he's concerned about both "cost and schedule challenges" associated with the next-generation fighter aircraft that Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates calls "the heart of the future of our tactical combat aviation."

"We don't like some of the trends we see, and we are determined not to accept those trends," Lynn told the audience of aerospace executives.

Defense Department officials are reviewing the program and exploring ways to get the contractor, Lockheed Martin Corp., to share in the cost of scheduling delays, he said. Meanwhile, they're revising and restructuring the program to make sure it delivers on schedule.

The big question, Lynn told the group, is: "Can we make the test program more robust and more redundant so to ensure the development comes in a timely way?"

Asked about the contentious aerial tanker competition, Lynn said Pentagon officials are striving "to play it right down the middle" to ensure it doesn't favor either Northrop Grumman Corp. or Boeing Co.

"We want a fair competition; we want a balanced competition," Lynn said. "We think that is what will give the best value to the taxpayer."

The issue involves a contract for 179 aerial refuelers estimated at about $35 billion. The new tankers will replace the aging KC-135R Stratotanker fleet.

Gates told the Senate Armed Services Committee yesterday he wants both contractors vying to build the tanker to remain in the competition. "We believe that both of the principal competitors are highly qualified, and we would like to see competition continue in the process," Gates said.

Northrop-Grumman has threatened to withdraw from the competition if the bidding terms aren't changed, complaining that they favor Boeing. Boeing, on the other hand, contested the initial contract award to a Northrop Grumman/EADS/Airbus consortium in February 2008. The Government Accountability Office reviewed the protest and recommended that the Air Force rebid the contract due to irregularities in the contracting process.

Lynn said yesterday he's not surprised that both contenders, in comments about the new draft request for proposal, "argued for changes that would stress some of the benefits of their individual aircraft."

"We are going to have to play this down the middle, take fair account of any comments that are made by both sides, and move through this," he said. "We very much want to have competition, ... and we can't favor one side over the other."

Lynn said he expects the department to issue a final request for proposals in January.

The Air Force will be the source selection authority for the new tanker, Gates announced during the Air Force Association's Air and Space Conference in September. Defense Department officials are working closely with the Air Force to design the strategy leading up to the selection, Lynn told reporters during a late November Pentagon news conference.

President Explains Strategic Choices, Calls for Unity

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2009 - The Afghanistan strategy review included many options, but President Barack Obama deemed the increase of 30,000 U.S. troops to institute counterinsurgency operations to be the best one.

The president said the national security leadership team discussed the concerns that many people have about U.S. involvement in Afghanistan. He addressed them in his speech tonight at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

Obama said there are many who say that the war in Afghanistan is like the U.S. war in Vietnam.

"They argue that it cannot be stabilized, and we are better off cutting our losses and rapidly withdrawing," he said. "Yet this argument depends upon a false reading of history."

Unlike Vietnam, a broad coalition supports the effort in Afghanistan, the president said. The Taliban is an extremist group, not a popular front like the Viet Cong.

"And most importantly, unlike Vietnam, the American people were viciously attacked from Afghanistan, and remain a target for those same extremists who are plotting along its border," Obama said. "To abandon this area now – and to rely only on efforts against al-Qaida from a distance – would significantly hamper our ability to keep the pressure on al-Qaida, and create an unacceptable risk of additional attacks on our homeland and our allies."

Other people say that the 68,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan are enough.

"This would simply maintain a status quo in which we muddle through, and permit a slow deterioration of conditions there," the president said. "It would ultimately prove more costly and prolong our stay in Afghanistan, because we would never be able to generate the conditions needed to train Afghan security forces and give them the space to take over."

Still others criticize the strategy for identifying a timeframe for transition to Afghan responsibility. They say there should be a "more dramatic and open-ended escalation of our war effort – one that would commit us to a nation-building project of up to a decade," Obama said. "I reject this course because it sets goals that are beyond what can be achieved at a reasonable cost, and what we need to achieve to secure our interests."

No timeframe also means no urgency, the president said. "It must be clear that Afghans will have to take responsibility for their security, and that America has no interest in fighting an endless war in Afghanistan," he said.

The cost of the effort in Afghanistan will still be high.

"All told, by the time I took office the cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan approached a trillion dollars," Obama said. "Going forward, I am committed to addressing these costs openly and honestly. Our new approach in Afghanistan is likely to cost us roughly $30 billion for the military this year, and I will work closely with Congress to address these costs as we work to bring down our deficit."

Succeeding in Afghanistan will not be easy, the president said, but it can be done.

"The struggle against violent extremism will not be finished quickly, and it extends well beyond Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said. "It will be an enduring test of our free society, and our leadership in the world. And unlike the great power conflicts and clear lines of division that defined the 20th century, our effort will involve disorderly regions, failed states and diffuse enemies."

But the United States can do this if Americans stick together and respond to our highest aspirations. "We must draw on the strength of our values – for the challenges that we face may have changed, but the things that we believe in must not," the president said.

Since World War II, American servicemembers have spilled their blood in many countries. The Marshall Plan helped rebuild Europe, and America has joined with allies to create an architecture of institutions – from the United Nations to NATO to the World Bank – that provide for the common security and prosperity of human beings, Obama said.

"We have not always been thanked for these efforts, and we have at times made mistakes," he said. "But more than any other nation, the United States of America has underwritten global security for over six decades – a time that, for all its problems, has seen walls come down, markets open, billions lifted from poverty, unparalleled scientific progress, and advancing frontiers of human liberty."

This is because the United States has not sought world domination.

"Our union was founded in resistance to oppression," he said. "We do not seek to occupy other nations. We will not claim another nation's resources or target other peoples because their faith or ethnicity is different from ours. What we have fought for – and what we continue to fight for – is a better future for our children and grandchildren, and we believe that their lives will be better if other peoples' children and grandchildren can live in freedom and access opportunity."

The president told the Corps of Cadets that Americans of today are "heirs to a noble struggle for freedom," and that freedom is again challenged.

America is a vast and diverse place, Obama said, and Americans can disagree. "But I also know that we, as a country, cannot sustain our leadership nor navigate the momentous challenges of our time if we allow ourselves to be split asunder by the same rancor and cynicism and partisanship that has in recent times poisoned our national discourse," he said.

The war began with horrific acts of murder, and those united Americans to defend the country and U.S. values.

"I refuse to accept the notion that we cannot summon that unity again," the president said. "I believe with every fiber of my being that we – as Americans – can still come together behind a common purpose. For our values are not simply words written into parchment – they are a creed that calls us together, and that has carried us through the darkest of storms as one nation, one people."

He said America is passing through a time of great trial. "And the message that we send in the midst of these storms must be clear: that our cause is just, our resolve unwavering," he said. "We will go forward with the confidence that right makes might, and with the commitment to forge an America that is safer, a world that is more secure, and a future that represents not the deepest of fears but the highest of hopes."

Obama Calls for Another 30,000 U.S. Troops in Afghanistan

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2009 - It is in America's vital national interests to send another 30,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan, President Barack Obama said tonight during a speech at West Point, N.Y.

Obama said that this surge of U.S. forces into Afghanistan will begin to ebb in July 2011 – when U.S. and NATO forces and allies begin turning over security responsibility to Afghan security forces.

"I make this decision because I am convinced that our security is at stake in Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said to the Corps of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy. "This is the epicenter of violent extremism practiced by al-Qaida. It is from here that we were attacked on 9/11, and it is from here that new attacks are being plotted as I speak."

The United States must rise to the challenge of al-Qaida and the Taliban. The extremists still operate in the border areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan, and still threaten America and its allies.

"This danger will only grow if the region slides backwards and al-Qaida can operate with impunity," the president said.

The United States and its international allies must keep pressure on the terror group, and that also will mean increasing the stability and capacity of partners in the region.

The 30,000 servicemembers and their equipment will flow in to Afghanistan in the first half of 2010, Obama said. White House officials speaking on background earlier today said this will entail at least two or three Army brigade combat teams, and many soldiers and Marines to train the Afghan security forces. Air Force and Navy personnel also will be called on to support this effort.

A military counterinsurgency effort aimed at protecting the Afghan people is only one part of the strategy, the president said. The second is a civilian surge that reinforces positive actions, and the third is an effective partnership with Pakistan.

The military strategy is aimed at reversing the Taliban's momentum and will increase Afghanistan's security capabilities over the next 18 months, Obama said. The strategy has at its core disrupting, dismantling and defeating al-Qaida and its extremist allies as the president announced in March.

The 30,000 additional troops will target the insurgency and secure key population centers. "They will increase our ability to train competent Afghan security forces, and to partner with them so that more Afghans can get into the fight," Obama said. "And they will help create the conditions for the United States to transfer responsibility to the Afghans."

The president also will ask for international military contributions. Some nations – Britain and Australia for example – already have provided additional troops, and he expects more nations will come forward soon.

"Our friends have fought and bled and died alongside us in Afghanistan," the president said. "Now, we must come together to end this war successfully. For what's at stake is not simply a test of NATO's credibility – what's at stake is the security of our allies, and the common security of the world."

Obama used the experiences in Iraq as a yardstick. Just as in Iraq, additional forces will provide the time and security needed to train local forces, thus accelerating a handover of security responsibility to Afghan forces beginning in July 2011.

"Just as we have done in Iraq, we will execute this transition responsibly, taking into account conditions on the ground," he said.

The civilian strategy will entail working with allies, international agencies and the Afghan people "to pursue a more effective civilian strategy, so that the government can take advantage of improved security,' he said.

Aid to Afghanistan must be based on performance, the president said. "The days of providing a blank check are over," he said.

Obama said Afghan President Hamid Karzai's inauguration speech sent the right message. The United States will support Afghan ministries, governors and local leaders that combat corruption and deliver for the people, he added.

"We expect those who are ineffective or corrupt to be held accountable," he said. "And we will also focus our assistance in areas – such as agriculture – that can make an immediate impact in the lives of the Afghan people."

Obama stressed that the United States is not interested in occupying Afghanistan or subjugating its people.

"We will seek a partnership with Afghanistan grounded in mutual respect – to isolate those who destroy; to strengthen those who build; to hasten the day when our troops will leave; and to forge a lasting friendship in which America is your partner, and never your patron," he said.

Obama stressed that the United States will not run out on Pakistan.

"We are in Afghanistan to prevent a cancer from once again spreading through that country," he said. "But this same cancer has also taken root in the border region of Pakistan. That is why we need a strategy that works on both sides of the border."

The Pakistani people were shocked by Taliban offensives that took them within 60 miles of the capital of Islamabad this year. They realize the extremists are a grave danger to the country and are addressing it. Obama praised the Pakistani military for its recent offensives in South Waziristan and Swat.

"Moving forward, we are committed to a partnership with Pakistan that is built on a foundation of mutual interests, mutual respect and mutual trust," Obama said. "We will strengthen Pakistan's capacity to target those groups that threaten our countries, and have made it clear that we cannot tolerate a safe haven for terrorists whose location is known, and whose intentions are clear."

The United States also will provide resources to support Pakistan's democracy and development.

"And going forward, the Pakistani people must know: America will remain a strong supporter of Pakistan's security and prosperity long after the guns have fallen silent, so that the great potential of its people can be unleashed," the president said.

Remains of U.S. Paratrooper Found in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2009 - The remains of a U.S. paratrooper reported missing since early this month in western Afghanistan was recovered yesterday, military officials said.

The body of Army Sgt. Brandon Islip was recovered from the Bala Murgahab River in Badghis province after a local Afghan resident provided information on his whereabouts, officials said.

Islip, a paratrooper with the Army's 82nd Airborne Division, went missing with another paratrooper Nov. 4 after being swept away by a fast-moving current while on an airdrop re-supply mission in western Afghanistan.

The recovery comes weeks after British divers found the body of Islip's fellow soldier, Spc. Benjamin Sherman, who was posthumously promoted to the rank of sergeant.

"The recovery of Sergeant Islip and Sergeant Sherman would not have been possible without the untiring support and efforts of our fellow international forces, the Afghan national security forces and the local people of Bala Murghab," said Col. Brian M. Drinkwine, commander of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, to which the two soldiers were assigned.

A memorial service for the two paratroopers will be held in Afghanistan in the coming days, officials said.

In other operations around the country, Afghan and international forces detained several suspected militants yesterday in Wardak province while pursuing a militant Taliban commander involved in weapons trafficking.

In a separate operation yesterday, an international security force killed an enemy militant and detained several others in Kandahar province while pursuing a Taliban district commander. The commander has ties to local senior militant leaders and weapons traffickers and is responsible for local attacks involving small arms and improvised explosive devices, or IEDs.

On Nov. 28, an international force detained several suspected militants in Logar province while pursuing a Taliban roadside bomber involved in several attacks in the area.

Elsewhere in the country Nov. 28, 12 inmates broke out of a prison in Farah province by digging a tunnel from their cell to the outside. Officials captured a 13th prisoner as he tried to escape, officials said.

Progress Continues for Joint Light Tactical Vehicle

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2009 - A program to develop a new family of light tactical vehicles for Army, Marine Corps and special operations forces is moving ahead at full steam, almost halfway through its technology development phase.

A technology demonstrator for the joint light tactical vehicle, developed by the Office of Naval Research, was among possible replacement vehicles displayed at the Nevada Automotive Testing Center outside Carson City, Nev., in March 2008. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Eric C. Schwartz

The joint light tactical vehicle is an Army, Marine Corps and U.S. Special Operations Command program to replace the Humvee with a family of higher-performing, more survivable vehicles able to carry greater payloads, said Kevin Fahey, Army program executive officer for combat support and combat service support during a recent interview.

The goal, he explained, is to fill a critical capabilities gap while developing a family of vehicles capable of performing multiple missions and sharing common components.

The Army, lead agent for the program, announced just over a year ago that it had awarded three contracts valued at about $166 million for the program's 27-month technology development phase. The three contractors are BAE Systems Land and Armaments, Ground Systems Division; General Tactical Vehicles, a joint venture between General Dynamics Land Systems and AM Genera; and Lockheed Martin Systems Integration.

During this phase, each of the three competing contractors is developing prototype vehicles in three different payloads configured for specific operational missions, Fahey said.

Category A is intended for general-purpose mobility and would carry the lightest payload, about 3,500 pounds. Category B models would transport infantry troops or weapons, serve as platforms for command-and-control and reconnaissance missions and carry payloads in the 4,000-to-4,500-pound range. Category C models would serve as shelter carriers, prime movers and ambulances, and would carry payloads just over 5,000 pounds.

The vehicles are being designed with an "open architecture" concept to accommodate extra armor, sensors, radios or other equipment, as required, without sacrificing power or payload, Fahey said. In addition, the vehicles will have a digital architecture incorporated into their design to support current networking requirements, as well as on-board diagnostics so they're easier to maintain.

As a unique twist to past development programs, the contractors are developing prototype companion trailers along with the tactical vehicles, with both meeting the same standards. "In the past, we rarely developed a trailer with its vehicle," Fahey said. "So the focus of this program is to demonstrate the maturity of the technology in an integrated platform."

By the year's end, the three contractors are expected to provide the vehicles and associated equipment for performance and reliability testing. Joint warfighters will provide their personal assessments.

The trick, Fahey said, is to avoid the pitfall of adding new requirements along the way that's plagued many past development programs.

"Our system very much opens the door up to, 'Wouldn't this widget be neat?" he said. "This is the phase where we need to prove that the technology is mature and can be integrated. ... We continue to emphasize to them that it has to be integratable, because when we make a decision at the end of this phase, we are going to execute."

When that decision is made, Fahey said, he feels confident it will be based on proven performance that demonstrates it can meet delivery goals. A production decision is expected by the end of 2014, with full-rate fielding to begin in 2016.

Fahey emphasized the benefit of designing the next-generation light tactical vehicles from the ground up for their specific use rather than simply being adapted to meet operational requirements.

The military's fleet of Humvees, estimated at about 160,000, was developed in the 1970s and delivered in the early 1980s with a focus on Cold War threats rather than on today's needs, he noted.

When the vehicles proved vulnerable to roadside bombs in Iraq and, increasingly, in Afghanistan, the military responded by adding heavy armor plating. The typical Humvee was designed to weigh a maximum of about 12,000 pounds, but now weighs closer to 18,000 pounds.

"It's way overweight, so it is underpowered, and mobility is lacking," Fahey said. "Another problem is [that] they don't have the payload they used to."

Mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles, in contrast, were purchased essentially as quickly as they were built to meet a wartime requirement quickly.

"With the MRAP, the thought was, 'I need a more survivable truck that is available today to save soldiers' and Marines' lives," Fahey said. "We made the requirement meet what was available."

Fahey is quick to note that there's really little about the MRAP that's "light," but he recognizes that MRAPs are being used in the combat zones for missions typically conducted by light tactical vehicle crews.

Fahey welcomes the deliberate process and long-term focus being dedicated to the joint light tactical vehicle's development.

"Unlike MRAP, which we basically bought off the shelf and tested as we fielded it, we are designing [the joint light tactical vehicle] from the start with a focus on reliability and maintainability and commonality," he said.

Although the Army is leading the program, it's done "a fantastic job of integrating Marine Corps management" into the effort, said Bill Taylor, executive officer for the Marine Corps' land systems programs.

The biggest challenge in a joint program, Fahey said, is agreeing to a common set of requirements. The Marine Corps puts the highest emphasis on making the vehicles lightweight to meet its mobility requirements. The Army tends to focus more on troop protection.

"But I think we can come to that balance because of the way the program is structured," Fahey said. "After all, the bottom line is we all are in the same fight."

The program has received a lot of international attention, too. Australia and India both signed agreements to provide development support and share the associated costs, and other countries have expressed interest in participating as well.

"Everyone is interested," Flahey said. "When you go around the world, everybody has this capability gap that we are focused on: the light tactical vehicle that brings a balance of performance and protection."
 

Face of Defense: Soldier Who Led Last Bayonet Charge Dies

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2009 - Retired Army Col. Lewis L. Millett, who earned the Medal of Honor during the Korean War for leading what reportedly was the last major American bayonet charge, died Nov 14.

Retired Army Col. Lewis L. Millet wears his Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star and other medals earned in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He served as honorary colonel of the 27th Infantry Regiment Association, and was active in veterans events almost to his death Nov. 14, 2009. U.S. Army photo (

Millett, 88, died in Loma Linda, Calif., after serving for more than 15 years as the honorary colonel of the 27th Infantry Regiment Association.

Millet received the Medal of Honor for his actions Feb. 7, 1951. He led the 25th Infantry Division's Company E, 27th Infantry, in a bayonet charge up Hill 180 near Soam-Ni, Korea. A captain at the time, Millet was leading his company in an attack against a strongly held position when he noticed that a platoon was pinned down by small-arms, automatic, and antitank fire.

Millett placed himself at the head of two other platoons, ordered fixed bayonets, and led an assault up the fire-swept hill. In the fierce charge, Millett bayoneted two enemy soldiers and continued on, throwing grenades, clubbing and bayoneting the enemy, while urging his men forward by shouting encouragement, according to his Medal of Honor citation.

"Despite vicious opposing fire, the whirlwind hand-to-hand assault carried to the crest of the hill," the citation states. "His dauntless leadership and personal courage so inspired his men that they stormed into the hostile position and used their bayonets with such lethal effect that the enemy fled in wild disorder."

Millett was wounded by grenade fragments during the attack, but he refused evacuation until the objective was firmly secured. He recovered, and attended Ranger School after the war.

In the 1960s, he ran the 101st Airborne Division Recondo School for reconnaissance and commando training at Fort Campbell, Ky. He then served in a number of special operations advisory assignments in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. He founded the Royal Thai Army Ranger School with help of the 46th Special Forces Company. This unit reportedly is the only one in the U.S. Army to simultaneously be designated as both Ranger and Special Forces.

Millet retired from the Army in 1973.

"I was very saddened to hear Colonel Millett passed away," said Army Maj. Gen. Robert L. Caslen Jr., the current commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. "He was a rare breed -- a true patriot who never stopped serving his country. He was a role model for thousands of soldiers, and he will be missed."

Millet was born in Maine and first enlisted in 1940 in the Army Air Corps and served as a gunner. Soon after, when it appeared that the United States would not enter World War II, he left and joined the Canadian army.

In 1942, while Millet was serving in London, the United States entered the war. Millet turned himself in to the U.S. Embassy there and eventually was assigned to the 1st Armored Division. As an antitank gunner in Tunisia, Millet earned the Silver Star after he jumped into a burning halftrack filled with ammunition, drove it away from allied soldiers and jumped to safety just before the vehicle exploded. He later shot down a German fighter plane with a vehicle-mounted machine gun.

As a sergeant serving in Italy during the war, his desertion to join the Canadian forces caught up to him. He was court-martialed, fined $52 and denied leave. A few weeks later, he was awarded a battlefield commission. After the war, he joined the 103rd Infantry of the Maine National Guard, and he attended college until he was called back to active duty in 1949.

In addition to the Medal of Honor, Millett earned the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, two Legions of Merit and four Purple Hearts during his 35-year military career. After his retirement, he remained active in both national and local veterans groups from his Idyllwild, Calif., home.

His son, Army Staff Sgt John Morton Millett, was a member of the 101st Airborne Division returning from duty in the Sinai on Dec. 12, 1985, when a charter plane crashed upon takeoff after stopping at Gander, Newfoundland. He was one of 256 soldiers killed in the crash.

On Feb. 7, 1994, Millet was honored with a ceremony on Hill 180, now located on Osan Air Base, South Korea. The ceremony became an annual one, and the road running up the hill was named "Millet Road."

In June 2000, Millet returned to Seoul, South Korea, and served as keynote speaker at the Army's 225th Birthday Ball at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. All eight of the then-living Korean War Medal of Honor recipients attended the event.

This year, Millet served as the grand marshal of a Salute to Veterans parade April 21 in Riverside, Calif. He died Nov. 14 at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Loma Linda, of congestive heart failure.

A memorial service for Millet is scheduled for 10 a.m. Dec. 5 at the National Medal of Honor Memorial at Riverside National Cemetery in California.

Hood, Nation Pay Tribute to Victims of Post Shooting Spree

By Andrew Evans
American Forces Press Service

FORT HOOD, Texas, Nov. 11, 2009 - The mournful and all too familiar scene of a bugler playing Taps occurred again here Tuesday as the Fort Hood community paid its respects to fallen warriors struck down last week allegedly at the hands of a lone gunman, who also happened to wear an Army uniform.

 

 

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama place a commander-in-chief's coin on the fallen Soldier memorials honoring 13 shooting victims at the conclusion of a memorial ceremony at Fort Hood Nov. 10, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jason R. Krawczyk

"No words can ever express our sadness," Lt. Gen. Robert Cone, III Corps and Fort Hood commanding general said before President Barack Obama took the stage.
"We can never accept the loss of soldiers at home," Cone added. "Our Army family shares in the loss of your loved ones."

The general also praised the courage of the soldiers who disregarded their own safety to render aid to others at the scene.

Prior to his public address, the president spoke with many of the survivors and the families of the fallen. Speaking to an estimated 15,000 people at the memorial, Obama vowed that justice will be done in the attack that left 13 dead and 43 wounded.
"No faith justifies these murderous and craven acts," Obama said, noting that Soldiers who responded to the attack "remind us of who we are as Americans."
Although the president told the families that "no words can fill the void that has been left," he added, "your loved ones endure through the life of our nation.

"Their life's work is our security and the freedom that we too often take for granted. Every evening that the sun sets on a tranquil town; every dawn that a flag is unfurled; every moment that an American enjoys life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – that is their legacy," the president said.

The Fort Hood community has suffered 545 soldiers killed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Cone said, "but never did we expect to pay such a high price at home."
The Army Chief of Staff, Gen. George Casey, added, "Grieve with us. Don't grieve for us.

"Those who have fallen did so in the service of their country," he said. "They freely answered the call to serve, and they gave their lives for something that they loved and believed in."

The fallen came from 11 different states and from all walks of life to answer the call of service, Cone said, emphasizing their diversity. The deadly incident will motivate Soldiers to renew their resolve and commitment of the military and to win the nation's wars, the general said.

"May our continued service be a tribute to them," Cone said.
Like generations before them, President Obama said this generation of servicemembers has paid the price for freedom.

"Their life's work is our security and the freedom that we too often take for granted. Every evening that the sun sets on a tranquil town; every dawn that a flag is unfurled; every moment that an American enjoys life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – that is their legacy."

At the conclusion of the memorial ceremony, Obama and first lady Michelle Obama laid a presidential coin before each of the 13 battlefield crosses – the helmet, boots and rifle representing each of those killed – before family members and comrades filed past.
 

	President Barack Obama speaks during the memorial ceremony at Fort Hood for victims of last week's shooting incident Nov. 10, 2009. Held outside the U.S. Army's III Corps headquarters, an estimated 15,000 soldiers, civilians and their families attended the memorial. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jason R. Krawczyk
	A woman breaks down crying during a memorial ceremony honoring 13 Fort Hood shooting victims outside the III Corps headquarters building Nov. 10. An estimated 15,000 attended the memorial. U.S. Army photo by Andrew Evans
	A 1st Cavalry Division bugler plays 'Taps' at the conclusion of a memorial ceremony honoring 13 Fort Hood shooting victims Nov. 10, 2009, outside of the III Corps headquarters building. More than 15,000 family members, guests and troops attended the memorial.
	The family of Spc. Kham S. Xiong, one of 13 slain at Fort Hood Nov. 5, make their way past the battlefield crosses of the fallen following a memorial ceremony Nov. 10, 2009. More than 15,000 attended the memorial outside the III Corps headquarters building, including the families of the fallen who met with President Barack Obama prior to the event. U.S. Army photo by Andrew Evans

CONTRACTS

NAVY

                Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $329,400,000 modification to the previously awarded Joint Strike Fighter air system low rate initial production Lot III cost-plus-incentive-fee/award-fee contract (N00019-08-C-0028) for special tooling and special test equipment.  Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (35 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (25 percent); Warton, United Kingdom (20 percent); Orlando, Fla. (10 percent); Nashua, N.H. (5 percent); and Baltimore, Md. (5 percent).  Work is expected to be completed in November 2011.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.

                The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc., Cambridge, Mass., is being awarded a $133,347,704 modification (#P00003) under previously awarded cost-plus-incentive-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N00030-09-C-0008) for the Trident II (D5) guidance system tactical engineering support and guidance applications program.  Specific tasks include tactical engineering support, MK6 field support services, engineering support to develop a strategic guidance application program, develop a GPS receiver design approach, provide support for the Extended Navy Test Bed (ENTB) and ENTB derivative reentry body experiments, and assess maintaining the accuracy of the existing reentry systems.  The modification increases the total contract value to $290,690,456.  Work will be performed in Cambridge, Mass. (73 percent); Pittsfield, Mass. (21 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (4 percent); Clearwater, Fla. (1 percent); and Andover, Mass. (1 percent).  Work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2011.  Contract funds in the amount of $86,512,731 will expire at the end of current fiscal year.  Strategic Systems Programs, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity. 

                The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc., Cambridge, Mass., is being awarded a $109,691,035 modification (#P00009) under previously awarded cost-plus-incentive-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N00030-08-C-0010) for the Trident II (D5) guidance system repair, and MK6LE.  Specific tasks include guidance system repair and the delivery of MK6LE pre-production units to support three planned proofing test missile flights.  The modification increases the total contract value to $547,578,527.  Work will be performed in Cambridge, Mass. (82 percent), and Pittsfield, Mass. (18 percent), and is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2012.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of current fiscal year.  Strategic Systems Programs, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity.

                Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $36,253,351 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-10-C-2205) to exercise an option for life cycle engineering and support services for LPD 17 class integrated shipboard electronic systems.  Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif. (95 percent); Chula Vista, Calif. (3 percent); and Norfolk, Va. (2 percent).  Work is expected to be completed by December 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $478,276 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

                General Electric Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a $28,096,373 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-06-C-0088) for engineering and integrated logistics services in support of the F/A-18E/F F414-GE-400.  Work will be performed in Lynn, Mass. (78 percent); Evendale, Ohio (13 percent); Lemoore, Calif. (5 percent); and Jacksonville, Fla. (4 percent).  Work is expected to be completed in December 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $1,039,505 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.

                Lockheed Martin, Maritime Systems and Sensors, Moorestown, N.J., is being awarded a $15,250,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technical and engineering support and related operation and maintenance for the Navy's Combat Systems Engineering Development Site, and technical engineering support for the SPY-1A test lab and Naval Systems Computing Center.  Work will be performed in Moorestown, N.J., and is expected to be completed by September 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $243,182 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was not competitively procured.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-5124).

                The Boeing Co., Seattle, Wash., is being awarded a $12,465,000 not-to-exceed modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00019-04-C-3146) for non-recurring engineering in support of the P-8A initial operation test and evaluation.  Specific efforts include the modification of courseware and training devices and transition and integration of organic maintenance.  Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo. (60 percent), and Seattle, Wash. (40 percent), and is expected to be completed in January 2012.  Contract funds in the amount of $1,000,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River Md., is the contracting activity.

                Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $9,875,760 time-and-materials contract to provide support for the care, maintenance and operation of marine mammals that serve in the Navy's Marine Mammal Systems and associated fleet mine countermeasures and force protection systems.  This one-year contract includes four one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to a potential $49,721,193.  Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif. (96 percent), and Kings Bay, Georgia (4 percent), and is expected to be completed Dec. 3, 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $4,391,950 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was competitively procured via the Commerce Business Daily's Federal Business Opportunities website, and the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with one offer received.  Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-C-0070). 

                Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded a $7,384,860 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6306) to exercise an option for spares and consumables for 1,300 production systems, four field service representatives, and 350 training surrogates for 1,300 dismounted joint counter radio-controlled improvised explosive device electronic warfare systems.  Dismounted Joint Counter Radio Electronic Warfare (JCREW) systems are electronic jammers designed to prevent the initiation of radio-controlled improvised explosive devices.  This contract is for the procurement and support of JCREW systems to be used by forces in each of the military services of the Central Command area of responsibility.  Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev. (90 percent), and Rancho Cordova, Calif. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by December 2010.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.

                McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $7,212,000 firm-fixed-price order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00019-05-G-0026) in support of Navy F-18 aircraft.  This order provides for the production and delivery of 14 multipurpose display indicators (MDI); seven horizontal situation displays (HSD); seven AFC-430 install kits (kits to install MDIs and HSDs); 12 AFC-493 install kits (kits to install ejection seats); and seven AYC-1363 install kits (kits to prepare canopy for the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System).  Work will be performed in Toronto, Canada (57 percent); St. Louis, Mo. (22 percent); various locations throughout the continental United States (9 percent); Halifax, Canada (4 percent); Grand Rapids, Mich. (2 percent); Sylmar, Calif. (1 percent); Tempe, Ariz. (1 percent); Mesa, Ariz. (1 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (1 percent); O'Fallon, Mo. (1 percent); and Butler, N.J. (1 percent), and is expected to be completed in January 2012.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

                G2 Software Systems, Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $6,855,868 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to provide support in the areas of veterinary care, scientific research and animal management of marine mammals involved in the Navy's Marine Mammal Program.  This one-year contract includes four one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to a potential $36,269,609.  Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif. (96 percent), and Kings Bay, Ga. (4 percent), and is expected to be completed Dec. 3, 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $3,047,052 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was competitively procured via the Commerce Business Daily's Federal Business Opportunities website, and the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with one offer received.  Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-C-0066). 

                Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., Hurst, Texas, is being awarded a $5,900,000 ceiling-priced order (#0031) contract for the repair of left hand and right hand blades for the V-22 aircraft.  Work will be performed in Ft. Worth, Texas, and is expected to be completed by December 2010.  Contract funds will not expire before the end of the fiscal year.  This contract was not competitively awarded.  The Naval Inventory Control Point is the contracting activity (N00383-05-G-048N).

AIR FORCE

Composite Engineering, Incorporated of Sacramento, California was awarded a $29,342,315 contract which will provide Lot 7 option to procure a quantity of 36 additional BQM-167As, also known as the Air Force Subscale Aerial Target.   At this time, the entire amount has been obligated.  691 ARSS/PK, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida is the contracting activity.  (FA8678-10-C-0051)

IAP Worldwide Services, Incorporated of Cape Canaveral, Florida was awarded a $7,117,529 contract which will provide for Public Works services at Fort Dix New Jersey for 1 October 2009 through 31 March 2010.  At this time, the entire amount has been obligated.  87 CONS, McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey is the contracting activity.  (W911S1-05-C-0001)

ARMY

                Tug Hill Construction, Inc., Watertown, N.Y., was awarded on Nov. 25, 2009, a $15,919,840 firm-fixed-price contract for raising trail profiles to improve drainage conditions and placement of compacted base course and gravel surface course materials, resulting in a 28-foot wide roadway with adequate shoulders and associated drainage structures for track and wheeled vehicles for approximately 35 miles.  Work is to be performed in Fort Bliss, Texas, with an estimated completion date of April 2011.  Bids were solicited on the Federal Business Opportunities website with five bids received.  U.S. Army Engineer District, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-09-D-0006).

                Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., Baltimore, Md., was awarded on Nov. 25, 2009, a $15,793,363 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the General Instruction Building, Vehicle Maintenance Instruction Facility, Project No. 65438, Fort Benning, Ga.  This project includes site design and construction to the five-foot line, facility design and construction of associated site work, complete outside the five-foot-line.  Work is to be performed in Fort Benning, Ga., with an estimated completion date of March 31, 2011.  Four bids solicited with three bids received.  U.S. Army Engineer District, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (W912HN-07-D-0055).

                Weston Solutions, Inc., Houston, Texas, was awarded on Nov. 25, 2009, a $14,681,612 firm-fixed-price contract for the removal/replacement and off-site disposal of damaged sections of articulating concrete block revetments at Placement Areas 36, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42 and 43, Rollover Pass to Bolivar Emergent and containment levee placement areas.  Work is to be performed in Chamber County, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 3, 2010.  Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with three bids received.  U.S. Army Engineer District, Galveston, Texas, is the contracting activity.

                Caterpillar, Inc., Defense and Federal Products., Mossville, Ill., was awarded on Nov. 23, 2009, a $6,980,798 firm-fixed-price contract for interim contractor logistics support for 51 armored 966H heavy loaders.  Work is to be performed in Peoria, Ill., with an estimated completion date of December 2010.  Bids were solicited via the Federal Business Opportunities website with five bids received.  U.S. Army TACOM-Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-DL424).

                A/B Electrical & General Contracting Services, Inc., Detroit, Mich., was awarded on Nov. 23, 2009, a $6,673,400 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of commercial vehicle access control points. Work is to be performed in Warren, Mich., with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2011.  Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with seven bids received.  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity (W9128F-10-C-0002).

                Rolls-Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., was awarded on Nov. 30, 2009, a $8,261,800 firm-fixed-price contract to analyze, test, repair and overhaul 50 each T63-A-720, gas turbine engines applicable to the OH-58 Kiowa helicopter.  Work is to be performed in Neosha, Mo. (50 percent), and Oakland, Calif. (50 percent), with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2010.  One bid was solicited with one bid received.  U.S. Army Contracting Command, CCAM-AL-M, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-D-0207).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

                Valley Apparel LLC, Knoxville, Tenn.*, is being awarded a maximum $8,002,706 firm-fixed-price, total set-aside contract for Navy task force uniforms.  There are no other locations of performance.  Using service is Navy.  The original proposal was web solicited with five responses.  Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the second option year period.  The date of performance completion is Dec. 4, 2010.  The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM1C1-08-D-1029).

CONTRACTS

NAVY

                Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc., Pascagoula, Miss., is being awarded a letter contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $170,700,000 for long lead time material in support of the construction of DDG 113 under the DDG 51 Class destroyer program.  This contract provides propulsion gas turbines, generators, controllable pitch propeller and other components to support construction of DDG 113.  Work is anticipated to be performed in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Alabama, Indiana, Louisiana., Mississippi, New York, Texas, Virginia and Washington.  Work is expected to be completed by January 2013.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was not competitively procured.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-2308).

                Deloitte Consulting LLP, Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $28,163,676 modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract (N00421-03-D-0014) to execute an award term for continued E-2/C-2 planning, program and financial services in support of the Navy and the government of Egypt under the Foreign Military Sales program.  Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., and is expected to be completed in December 2010.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

                Systems Engineering Associates Corp.*, Middletown, R.I., is being awarded a $24,394,707 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for engineering services in support of the Undersea Warfare Combat Systems Department.  Efforts will include applying the extensible markup language test data analysis tool technology to legacy C5I and weapon systems.  The work under the contract will also include studies, research, development, analysis for system integration, customizing prototype to specific platform needs, test and evaluation, production buys, support, and training.  Work will be performed in Middletown, R.I. (65 percent), and various government sites (35 percent).  Work is expected to be completed by December 2014.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was not competitively procured.  The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, R.I., is the contracting activity (N66604-10-D-0205).

                Science Applications International Corporation, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a cost plus fixed-fee type contract with a Not-to-Exceed amount of $11,500,000 for non-personal professional engineering, technical and management support services in support of the Joint Technology Assessment Activity component of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane.  Work will be performed in Crane, Ind. (50 precent); Sullivan, Ind. (10 precent); Butlerville, Ind. (10 precent); Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (10 precent); Yuma, Ariz. (10 precent); and Mercury, Nev. (10 precent), and is expected to be completed by November 2010.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was not competitively procured.  The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-10-C-JR01).

                McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $9,518,720 order against a previously issued Basic Ordering Agreement (N00019-05-G-0026) for the necessary personnel, material and support to repair or replace damaged components of Kuwait F/A-18 aircraft tail number 421 for the government of Kuwait under the Foreign Military Sales program.  Work will be performed at Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base, Kuwait, and is expected to be completed in December 2012.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.

                Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, East Hartford, Conn., is being awarded a $5,954,085 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-09-C-0083) to exercise an option for maintenance, logistics and engineering supplies and services for F100-PW-220/220E augmented turbofan engines, modules and serviceable parts for F-16A and F-16B aircraft based at Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center, Fallon, Nev. Work will be performed in San Antonio, Texas, and is expected to be completed in November 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $5,954,085 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

                EG&G Technical Services, Inc., Dumfries, Va., is being awarded $5,743,621 for task order #0087 under previously awarded contract (M67854-02-A-9011) This task order is issued for Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle support services.  Technical support under this effort includes the support services to advance the use of technology to improve system performance and operations, achieve design-to-unit production cost objectives, and to define mature production and manufacturing processes.  Work will be performed in Woodbridge, Va., and is expected to be completed in December 2010.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Marine Corps System Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

                United Technologies Corp., East Hartford, Conn., was awarded a $1,722,906,899 contract which provides F117-PW-100 installation of engines, spare engines and associated data for the C-17 aircraft.  A total of up to 208 engines may be acquired under this contract.  At this time, no money has been obligated.  577 AESG/PK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8626-07-D-2073).

                Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co., Sunnyvale, Calif., was awarded a $57,300,000 contract which provides non-personal services to support the operations and sustainment of Milstar and the Defense Satellite Communications System for the next eight months.  At this time, $28,650,000 has been obligated.  HQ MCSW/PK, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (FA8808-10-C-0002).

                Lockheed Martin Corp., Sunnyvale, Calif., was awarded a $39,500,000 contract which provides contractor sustainment for the AEHF satellite ground segment from Dec. 1, 2009, to Sep. 30, 2010.  At this time, $39,500,000 has been obligated.  MCSW/PKA, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-02-C-0002, P00399).

                The Boeing Co., Seattle, was awarded a $28,000,000 contract which provides for one Boeing 737 C-40B aircraft.  At this time, the entire amount has been obligated.  AESS/SYKA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8625-10-C-6599).

                United Launch Services, LLC, Centennial, Colo., was awarded a $16,024,713 contract which provides the final close out of the Medium Launch Vehicle (MLV) III Delta II contract and transfer of required MLV III assets to a NASA contract.  At this time, $16,024,713 has been obligated.  LRS/PK, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-93-C-0004, P00386).

                Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., San Diego, was awarded a $10,640,071 contract which provides an earned award fee based on the contractor's performance for engineering, manufacturing and development activities in support of the Global Hawk Program.  At this time, the entire amount has been obligated.  303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-01-C-4600, P00338).

                GCC/Thomco, LLC, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., and CCI Group, LLC, Shalimar, Fla., were each awarded a $10,000,000 contract which provides acquisition of base engineering requirements, maintenance, repair and minor construction efforts.  At this time, no money has been obligated.  96 CONS/PKAC, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA2823-10-D-0001, FA2823-10-D-0002).

NAVY

                Lockheed Martin, Maritime Systems and Sensors, Moorestown, N.J., is being awarded a $24,306,180 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5103) to exercise an option for fiscal 2010 Aegis Platform Systems Engineering Agent activities and Aegis Modernization Advanced Capability Build engineering.  The Platform Systems Engineering Agent manages the in-service combat systems configurations, as well as the integration of new or upgraded capability into the CG57 class of ships and the DDG 51 class of ships.  Aegis Modernization will provide upgrades to Aegis cruisers and Aegis destroyers and will be applicable to all Aegis ships with a computer program that is backfit compatible to Baseline 2 cruisers.  Work will be performed in Moorestown, N.J., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2009.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

                Raytheon Co., Fort Wayne, Ind., is being awarded a $12,738,186 delivery order against a previously issued basic order agreement (N00019-05-G-0008) for the procurement of 30 electronic modules for the Royal Australian Air Force AF/A-18F aircraft under the Foreign Military Sales program.  Work will be performed in Fort Wayne and is expected to be completed in August 2013.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Capps Shoe Co.*, Lynchburg, Va, is being awarded a maximum $5,652,220 firm-fixed-price, partial set-aside contract for men's dress shoes.  Other location of performance is Gretna, Va.  Using services are Army and Marine Corps.  The original proposal was web solicited with four responses.  Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the third of four one-year option periods.  The date of performance completion is Dec. 3, 2010.  The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (SPM1C1-07-D-0023).

                Wolverine World Wide, Rockford, Mich., is being awarded a maximum $5,329,730 firm-fixed-price, partial set-aside contract for men's dress shoes.  Other locations of performance are Jonesboro, Ariz.; Big Rapids, Mich.; and Cedar Springs, Mich.  Using services are Army and Marine Corps.  The original proposal was web solicited with four responses.  Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the third of four one-year option periods.  The date of performance completion is Dec. 3, 2010.  The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (SPM1C1-07-D-0022).

CONTRACTS

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

                Bay Area Diablo Petroleum Co., Concord, Calif.*, is being awarded a minimum $5,362,113 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel.  Other locations of performance are in California and Utah.  Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and federal civilian agencies.  The original proposal was web solicited with 48 responses.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The date of pe

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

                Lockheed Martin Corp., of Marietta, Ga., was awarded a $827,400,000 contract which will provide for the advance procurement funding for three FY10 Air Force C-130J aircraft, four FY10 HC-130J aircraft, and four FY10 MC-130J aircraft.  This option is being established for acquisition of one HC-130J aircraft to be bully funded with FY10 funds.  At this time, $8,274,000 has been obligated.  657 AESS/SYKA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8625-06-C-6456, P00087).

                Wintec, Arrowmaker, Inc., of Fort Washington, Md., was awarded a $85,000,000 contract which will provide advisory and assistance services to Headquarters Air Force Special Operations Command.  At this time, $3,000 (per awardees) will be obligated on initial task orders upon contract meeting minimum requirements.  HQ AFSOC/A7KZ, Hurlburt Field, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA0021-10-D-0001; FA0021-10-D-0002; FA0021-10-D-0003).

TRICARE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY (TMA)

                International SOS Assistance, Inc., Trevose, Pa., is being awarded a fixed price requirements contract to provide health care support services to the Department of Defense TRICARE Overseas Program.  The total potential contract value, including the approximately 10-month base period and five (5) one-year option periods for health care delivery, plus a transition-out period, is estimated at $269,052,427.  The contractor will support the Chief, TRICARE Overseas Program Branch, TRICARE area office directors, and military treatment facility (MTF) commanders in operating an integrated health care delivery system which combines the resources of the military's direct medical care system with the contractor's health care support services.  Among other features, the new contract includes the establishment of host nation provider networks around MTFs. This contract was competitively procured via the TRICARE Management Activity e-solicitation Web site with three offers received.  The TRICARE Management Activity, Aurora, Colo., is the contracting activity.  The contract number is H94002-10-D-0001.

ARMY

                Raytheon Co., Andover, Mass., was awarded on Oct. 15, 2009 a $77,859,999 firm-fixed-price contract for Taiwan PATRION hardware upgrade program.  Work is to be performed in Andover, Mass., (85 percent), and Burlington, Mass., (15 percent), with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2015.  One bid was solicited with one bid received.  U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-09-G-0001).

                KBE Ventures A Joint Venture of KBE Bldg Corp & Derita Construction Co., Farmington, Conn., was awarded on Oct. 15, 2009 a $51,464,506 firm-fixed-price construction contract for the design and construction of an Armed Forces Reserve Center at Middletown, Conn.  Work is to be performed in Middletown, Conn., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 15, 2011.  Bids were solicited via FedBizOpps with 14 bids received.  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-10-C-0004).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

                Propper International, Inc., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico is being awarded a maximum $22,031,932 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery contract for improved load bearing equipment system and components.  There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Marine Corps.  There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third option period.  The date of performance completion is October 20, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM1C1-05-D-0012).

                SNC Telecommunication, LLC, Comerio, Puerto Rico* is being awarded a maximum $15,376,000 firm fixed price, total set aside contract for duffel bags.  Other location of performance is Orocovis, Puerto Rico.  Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.  There was originally one proposal solicited with one response.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the first option year period.  The date of performance completion is Sept. 28, 2010.  The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-09-D-0014).

NAVY

                Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $7,674,946 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5454) to increase the ceiling amount for the additional guidance section design verification testing to the System Design and Development of the Block 2 upgrade to the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Guided Missile Weapon System.  The RAM Guided Missile Weapon System is co-developed and co-produced under a NATO cooperative program between the United States and Federal Republic of Germany.  RAM is a missile system designed to provide anti-ship missile defense for multiple ship platforms.  This ceiling increase is for additional guidance section design verification testing to ensure the Software interfaces with the Hardware guidance section of the missile.  Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by August 2011.   Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea System Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

CONTRACTS

ARMY

                Airborne Systems North America, Santa Ana, Calif., was awarded on Oct. 9, 2009 a $13,996,042 firm-fixed-price, 5 year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity production with multiple awarded contracts.  This contract is for the procurement of T-11 Personnel Parachute Systems with a minimum contract value of $200,000 and a maximum combined contract value (among three awardees) of 220,000,000. Quantity anticipated is approximately 45,000-50,000. Work is to be performed in Santa Ana, Calif., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 5, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with seven bids received.  Research, Development, & Engineering Command, Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0003).

                Aerostar International, Inc., Sioux Falls, S.D., was awarded on Oct. 9, 2009 a $12,243,600 firm-fixed-price, 5 year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity production with multiple awarded contracts.  This contract is for the procurement of T-11 Personnel Parachute Systems with a minimum contract value of $200,000 and a maximum combined contract value (among three awardees) of 220,000,000.  Quantity anticipated is approximately 45,000-50,000. Work is to be performed in Huron, S.D., (95 percent) and Madison, S.D., (5 percent), with an estimated completion date of Oct. 5, 2014. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with seven bids received.  Research, Development, & Engineering Command, Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-09-D-0036).

                Leo A. Daly/ RLF, Inc., Omaha, Neb., was awarded on Oct. 9, 2009 a $9,052,788 firm-fixed-price contract for the architect-engineering services in support of the Fort Riley, Kansas hospital replacement project.  Work is to be performed in Fort Riley, Kansas, with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2011.  Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with 14 bids received.  U.S. Corps of Engineers, CECT-NWK-M, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-09-C-4003).

                BAE Systems, Phoenix, Ariz., was awarded on Oct. 9, 2009 a $8,746,475 firm-fixed-price, 5 year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity production with multiple awarded contract.  This contract is for the procurement of T-11 Personnel Parachute Systems with a minimum contract value of $200,000 and a maximum combined contract value (among three awardees) of 220,000,000.  Quantity anticipated is approximately 45,000-50,000.  Work is to be performed in Phoenix, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 5, 2014.  Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with seven bids received.  Research, Development, & Engineering Command, Contracting Center, Natick Contracting Division, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-10-D-0001).

                The Nutmeg Companies, Inc., Norwich, Conn., was awarded on Oct. 9, 2009 a $6,490,520 firm-fixed-price contract for the restoration of the existing Esek Hopkins Armed Forces Reserve Center.  Work is to be performed in Cranston, R.I., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 1, 2011.  Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with six bids received.  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-10-C-0002).

NAVY

                General Dynamics, Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $43,727,922 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-4005) to exercise an option CLIN 0005 for non-nuclear maintenance and repair support at the Naval Submarine Support Facility, Naval Submarine Base, New London, Conn.  Under the terms of the contract, Electric Boat will continue to provide services required to support planned and emergent non-nuclear maintenance and repair for operational nuclear submarines, floating dry-docks, support & service craft and other platforms and equipment.  Work will be performed in New London, Conn., and is expected to be completed by September 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $10,391,980 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

                General Dynamics Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded an $18,084,018 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-2103) for reactor plant planning yard services for nuclear-powered submarines and support yard services for the Navy's moored training ships.  The contractor will furnish, fabricate, or acquire such materials, supplies and services as may be necessary to perform the functions of the planning yard for reactor plants and associated portions of the propulsion plants for nuclear powered submarines.  Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., (95 percent), Charleston, S.C., (5 percent), and is expected to be completed by September 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $18,084,018 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

                Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc., Newport News Va., is being awarded a $5,967,938 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-2104) for planning and design yard functions for standard navy valves in support of nuclear powered submarines.  Work will be performed in Newport News, Va., and is expected to be completed by September 2010.  Contract funds in the amount of $5,967,938 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

                Weinbrenner Shoe Co., Merrill, Wis.*, is being awarded a maximum $9,166,331 firm fixed price indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for hot weather boots.  Other locations of performance are Marshfield and Saint Nazianz, Wis.  Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.  This proposal was originally Web solicited with one response.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the second option year period.  The date of performance completion is October 13, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-08-D-1040).

Correction:

                Defense Supply Associates, Inc., Fort Atkinson, Wis.*, is being awarded a maximum $18,874,930 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for HMMWV starters.  There are no other locations of performance.  Using service is Army.  This proposal was originally web solicited with six responses.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The date of performance completion is Mar. 8, 2015.  The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Warren, Warren, Mich., (SPRDL1-10-D-0003).

American Forces Press Service News Widget       Department of Defense Photography Widget

Obama Accepts Nobel Prize as 'Call to Action'

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2009 - President Barack Obama said today he'll accept the Nobel Peace Prize as a "call to action" for the international community to work together to confront common challenges, while also recognizing his responsibility for U.S. security.

"Even as we strive to seek a world in which conflicts are resolved peacefully and prosperity is widely shared, we have to confront the world as we know it today," the president said in a brief statement in the White House Rose Garden.

"I am the commander in chief of a country that's responsible for ending a war and working in another theater to confront a ruthless adversary that directly threatens the American people and our allies," he said.

Obama said he was humbled and surprised to learn that he had been named to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and believes the honor must be shared by all courageous people around the world who strive for justice and dignity.

He cited examples, including, "the soldier who sacrificed through tour after tour of duty on behalf of someone half a world away," and "all those men and women across the world who sacrifice their safety and their freedom, sometimes their lives, for the cause of freedom."

Obama is slated to reconvene his national security team later today for continued discussions about the strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Among the participants will be Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, U.S. Central Command Commander Army Gen. David H. Petraeus and, by videoconference, Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, the top U.S. commander in

Obama Accepts Nobel Prize as 'Call to Action'

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2009 - President Barack Obama said today he'll accept the Nobel Peace Prize as a "call to action" for the international community to work together to confront common challenges, while also recognizing his responsibility for U.S. security.

"Even as we strive to seek a world in which conflicts are resolved peacefully and prosperity is widely shared, we have to confront the world as we know it today," the president said in a brief statement in the White House Rose Garden.

"I am the commander in chief of a country that's responsible for ending a war and working in another theater to confront a ruthless adversary that directly threatens the American people and our allies," he said.

Obama said he was humbled and surprised to learn that he had been named to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and believes the honor must be shared by all courageous people around the world who strive for justice and dignity.

He cited examples, including, "the soldier who sacrificed through tour after tour of duty on behalf of someone half a world away," and "all those men and women across the world who sacrifice their safety and their freedom, sometimes their lives, for the cause of freedom."

Obama is slated to reconvene his national security team later today for continued discussions about the strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Among the participants will be Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, U.S. Central Command Commander Army Gen. David H. Petraeus and, by videoconference, Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, the top U.S. commander in

Bob Barker Donates $3Million for Brain Injury Center

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 8, 2009 - The price appears to be right for former game show host and naval aviator Bob Barker, who donated $3 million to help build a premiere Defense Department center for wounded warriors suffering traumatic brain injuries.

The donation brings the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund to its $60 million goal to build the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Bill White, president of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, announced yesterday.

The 72,000-square-foot, two-story facility is expected to open next year next to the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund will pay to build the center and equip it with the most advanced medical equipment for traumatic brain injury research, diagnosis and treatment, White said. Once construction is completed, the fund will turn the center over to the department to operate.

"This amazing gift puts us over the top," White said yesterday in announcing Barker's donation to the effort. "Thousands of Americans have given to this important effort, and Bob Barker has today stepped up to the task. We are immensely grateful for his wonderful generosity and his support for our nation's servicemen and women."

Richard T. Santulli, chairman of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, called reaching the financial milestone to begin construction of the center "a great step forward in our mission." The group raises money to provide financial help for families of U.S. servicemembers killed in the line of duty, and began raising funds for the new treatment center in 2007.

Barker, a naval aviator during World War II who's best known as the long-time host of "The Price is Right" game show until his 2007 retirement, called his donation a way to give back to those who serve or have served in the military.

"I am very happy to do whatever I can to support the brave men and women who have given so much in service to our nation," he said. "They have given so much for us. All Americans owe them a debt of gratitude for their tremendous service and sacrifice."

Gates: Withdrawal from Afghanistan Would Embolden Radicals

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 - Withdrawing U.S. forces from Afghanistan before accomplishing the mission there would greatly embolden Islamic radicals worldwide, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, left, and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates listen to a question from a student at the George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs, Oct. 5, 2009, in Washington, D.C. Veteran journalists Frank Sesno, the school's director, and CNN chief international correspondent Christiane Amanpour share the stage with the two Cabinet officers for a program scheduled for broadcast Oct. 6. DoD photo by Air Force Master Sgt. Jerry Morrison (Click photo for screen-resolution

Afghanistan -- particularly the region that abuts the Afghan-Pakistan border -- is "the modern epicenter of jihad," Gates said, noting that area is where the Soviet Union's military forces eventually were defeated by Afghan insurgents during the 1979-89 Soviet-Afghan War.

Gates joined Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton at George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium this evening, where the two senior Cabinet officers were interviewed by veteran journalists Frank Sesno, director of the university's School of Media and Public Affairs directorate, and Christiane Amanpour, CNN's chief international correspondent.

Gates said a symbiotic relationship exists among al-Qaida, the Taliban and other Islamic insurgent groups in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. Those groups, he said, would like nothing more than to chase the United States -– another superpower -- and NATO out of Afghanistan, just as the Soviets were made to leave in the late 1980s.

"It's a hugely empowering message ... should they be successful," Gates said of the insurgents' desire to take back Afghanistan.

And if the Taliban regained control of significant portions of Afghanistan, Gates said, "that would be added space for al-Qaida to strengthen itself" and embark on expanded recruitment and fund raising activities there.

"The reality is, because of our inability -- and the inability, frankly, of our allies -- to put enough troops into Afghanistan, the Taliban do have the momentum right now, it seems," Gates said.

Yet, it's more important, Gates said, not to define the situation in Afghanistan as to whether or not the United States and its allies are winning or losing. Such "loaded" words, he said, seem to inflame the domestic debate and can cause consternation overseas.

It's paramount, Gates said, to establish objectives in Afghanistan and to be able to answer whether those objectives can be accomplished.

"And the answer is: absolutely," Gates said of his belief that U.S. objectives in Afghanistan can be met.

Gates praised Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, the senior U.S. and NATO troop commander in Afghanistan, as being "exactly the right" officer to oversee operations there. Gates said he concurs with McChrystal's assessment that the situation in Afghanistan is "serious and deteriorating."

President Barack Obama is studying McChrystal's assessment of Afghanistan operations. The general also provided a report of what he believes is needed -- in terms of troops and other resources -- to succeed in Afghanistan.

McChrystal, who has said he advocates deploying more troops to Afghanistan, has lately attracted criticism from some quarters because he's been vocal in stating his views, particularly in a recent speech in London. Gates reiterated his support for McChrystal, but the secretary also cautioned that it's paramount not to let the decision-making process about how to proceed in Afghanistan become a public airing of views before the commander in chief can listen to all of his advisors.

"I think the important thing is for the president to hear the advice of his commanders, and to have the advantage of hearing that advice in private," Gates said.

During the decision-making process prior to the surge of forces in Iraq, Gates recalled, he structured a process in which senior military commanders "each had an opportunity to present their views privately" to then-President George W. Bush.

"I think that's the way the process ought to work" regarding the way ahead in Afghanistan, Gates said, noting that Obama has made it clear he's ready to spend whatever time is required to get advice directly from his senior commanders.

"It is very important that we get the most thoughtful, candid advice from everyone," Clinton said. The president's process for re-examining the strategy in Afghanistan, she said, is "one of the most open, most thorough that I've read about."

Gates said McChrystal would implement "as effectively as possible" any decision the president makes.
 

Army Confirms First Suspected H1N1-related Death

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2009 - A soldier stationed at Fort Jackson, S.C., who died Sept. 10, possibly is the first H1N1-related death suffered by the U.S. armed forces, Army officials here said.

Army Spc. Christopher Hogg, 23, of Dayton, Fla., died of pneumonia, but autopsy reports released yesterday confirm his death was the result of complications caused by the H1N1 virus, better known as swine flu, said Karen Soule, a Fort Jackson spokeswoman.

Fort Jackson doesn't yet offer the H1N1 vaccine, but officials there expect the first supply to arrive this month, she added.

Fort Jackson is taking the issue seriously, Soule said. The base is the largest Army training facility with more than 10,000 soldiers stationed there at any given time. An H1N1 epidemic there could compromise the Army's ability to effectively produce soldiers to support fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, she explained.

Hoggs was a basic training recruit in his fifth week of training when he was taken to the hospital Sept. 1 for a fever and respiratory issues. He was set to graduate Oct. 15

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

                Lockheed Martin Space systems Co., of Sunnyvale, Calif., was awarded a $21,639,894 contract which will provide for advanced extremely high frequencysatellites which will perform a 50 percent design adequacy assessment for the mission control segment and continue preparation for the preliminary design review as well as study the impacts on strategic command requirements.  At this time, $4,000,000 has been obligated.  MCSW/PKA, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-02-C-0002, P00383).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

                Belleville Shoe, Belleville, Ill., is being awarded a maximum $6,302,400 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for cold wet boots.  Other location of performance is Arkansas.  Using services are Army, Navy, and Air Force.  This proposal was originally Web solicited with four responses.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract is exercising the second option year period.  The date of performance completion is October 7, 2010.  The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-08-D-1043).

NAVY

                Raytheon Co., Space and Airborne Systems, El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a $5,650,089 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-04-C-0014) to perform engineering change proposal 6279, which will enhance the AN/APG-79 active electronically scanned array radar on 14 F/A-18E, 9 F/A-18F, 22 EA-18G Lot 33 aircraft.  Work will be performed in Forest, Miss., (42 percent); El Segundo, Calif., (36.8 percent); and St. Louis, Mo., (21.2 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2011.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

                Correction:  Contract awarded Sept. 30, 2009 , to Hensel Phelps Construction Co., Irvine, Calif., (N62473-09-C-1821) should have stated the amount as $60,720,000.

Country Music Stars Lead Effort to Benefit Military Medicine

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2009 - Grammy Award-winning country music stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are teaming up with civilian and military medical experts to further medical innovations and quality-of-life research for America's battle-wounded, ill and injured warriors.

The country stars and the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine will present "Country United," a symposium and awards gala here Nov. 6 and 7. TriWest Healthcare Alliance is sponsoring the two-day event.

"While only 1 percent of the U.S. population volunteers to serve in our armed forces, it is the responsibility of the remaining 99 percent of us -- as they protect and defend our freedom with their lives -- to assure they receive the best possible care," said David J. McIntyre Jr., president and CEO of TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

The Nov. 6 symposium will bring together leading experts to help expedite innovations in military medical treatment and research. Military and civilian researchers and clinicians as well as policymakers will engage in panel discussions on post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, military and civilian efforts in humanitarian aid and disaster response, and joint efforts to combat global infectious diseases.

The medical experts will include Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; Dr. Robert Ursano, founding director of the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences; Dr. W. Craig Vanderwagen, former assistant secretary for Preparedness and Response, Department of Health and Human Services; Dr. James Kelly, director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence; and Congressman Joe Wilson, member of the House Armed Services Committee and Congressional Brain Injury Task Force.

"I can personally attest to the tremendous value and effectiveness of military-civilian collaborations," Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway personal transporter, said. Kamen and his company, DEKA, have partnered with military researchers to create advanced new prosthetics, including a robotic arm.

"By working together, we can create incredible advances in medical technology that benefit not only our military men and women, but also civilians," he said.

The symposium also will encourage public and private collaborations to accelerate advances in care for wounded, ill and injured warriors and civilians, officials said.

Faith Hill will be the luncheon keynote speaker, joined by Army Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson. Gadson, who lost his legs to a roadside bomb in Baghdad, was credited by the New York Giants as the inspiration for their victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

Military and civilian heroes will be recognized the following evening at the Country United awards gala hosted by Emmy Award-winning NBC and HBO Sports broadcaster Bob Costas. The gala will include an awards dinner, with a "Visionary Award" presentation by Kamen, and silent and live auctions, culminating in performances by Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, the Warren Brothers and friends.

Related Sites:
The White House
White House Fact Sheet on Missile Defense in Europe
Transcript
 

Obama to Award Medal of Honor to Soldier

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2009 - President Barack Obama is scheduled tomorrow night to award the Medal of Honor to Army Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti at a White House ceremony.

The ceremony will mark Obama's first award of the nation's highest military honor, and the sixth Medal of Honor awarded since Sept. 11, 2001.

Obama will present the award posthumously to Monti's family. His parents, Paul and Janet Monti, are scheduled to accept the award. He also is survived by a brother, sister and niece.

Monti, of Raynham, Mass., was 30 when he was killed June 21, 2006, in a firefight in Gowardesh, Afghanistan, near the Pakistan border. He was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Squadron, 71st Calvary, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, out of Fort Drum, N.Y.

Monti enlisted in March 1993 and attended basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Sill, Okla. His military honors include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, five Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, three Good Conduct Medals and three National Defense Service Medals.

He was posthumously promoted to sergeant first class.

The Medal of Honor is awarded to servicemembers who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in military action against an enemy of the United States.

The award for extraordinary merit has been bestowed on 3,447 men and one woman since President Abraham Lincoln signed it into law Dec. 21, 1861. Five servicemembers have received the Medal of Honor -- all posthumously -- for service since 9/11.

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

                CSC Applied Technologies, LLC of Fort Worth, Texas was awarded a $70,504,014 contract for base operating support and aircraft maintenance for Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma in support of undergraduate pilot training for its first year option.  At this time, no money has been obligated.  AETC/CONS/LGCK, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas is the contracting activity (FA3002-08-C-0007,P00025).

                General Dynamics Information Technology, Inc. of Dayton, Ohio was awarded a $49,998,000 contract to perform technical efforts to specialized studies using unique subject matter experts and innovative solutions for the purpose of conducting research and advancing the current state-of-the-art in materials technologies, interactions, or applications in several program areas within the survivability portfolio.  At this time, $408,000 has been obligated.  Det 1 AFRL/PKMM, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8650-09-D-5430).

                BAE Systems Technical Services of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded a $39,553,260 contract to manage, operate, maintain, and logistically support the solid state phased array radar system at Beale, Air Force Base, Calif., Thule Air Base, Greenland, Clear Air Force Station, Alaska, and Royal Air Force Flyingdales, United Kingdom.  At this time, the entire amount has been obligated.  21 CONS/LGCZG, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado is the contracting activity (FA2517-06-C-8001, P00165).

ARCTEC, Alaska of Elmendorf, Air Force Base, Alaska was awarded a $35,549,366 contract which will provide for operation and maintenance of the Alaska Radar System consisting of 15 remote radar sites for a twelve-month period.  At this time no money has been obligated.  3d CONS, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska is the contracting activity (FA5000-04-C-0011).

Secureboration, Inc. of Melbourne, Fla., was awarded a $32,000,000 contract which will provide transition and development command and control ontology-based semantic interoperability framework technologies to enable the passing of vital pieces of information between operationa systems in a timely manner and to allow for critical linkage of data between the entities that require them as a step in achieving DoD net centric compliance..  At this time $780,000 has been obligated.  AFRL/RIKD, Rome, New York is the contracting activity (FA8750-09-D-0195).

                Rehabilitation Services of Madison, Miss., was awarded a $19,547,353 contract to provide a full food service contract at Keesler, Air Force Base, Mississippi.  At this time $11,581,103 has been obligated.  81 CONS, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi is the contracting activity (FA3010-08-C-0002,P00024).

NAVY

            Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $35,786,526 cost-plus fixed-fee delivery order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0