Jan elmorro 2012_web

January 2012

Fort Buchanan

The Sentinel of the Caribbean

Retirees pitch in for DPW tree planting, Page 20

El MorroVol. 47 issue 6

El Morro Readers Survey results, Pages 10, 11

Community images now available on

Scholarships

TSA Page 6

News

New law expedites troops thru airport security

Applications for the 2012 Scholarships for Military Children Pro-gram are now available at commissaries world-wide as well as online through a link on http://www.commissaries.com and directly at http://www.militaryscholar.org.

Applicants must sub-mit an essay on a topic which is now avail-able at http://www.mili-taryscholar.org. Applica-tions must be turned in to a commissary by close of business Feb. 24, 2012.

Awards will be based on funds available, but the program awards at least one $1,500 scholar-ship to a student at each commissary. Check the program’s Web site or visit the Commissary for eligibility requirements.

WASHINGTON -- A bill signed into law by the presi-dent Jan. 3 means Soldiers in uniform and their Families may soon have an easier time moving through security

screening lines at the airport.The “Risk-Based Security

Screening for Members of the Armed Forces Act” calls for development of a plan that will provide “expedited security screening services for a member of the armed

forces, and, to the extent possible, any accompanying family member.”

Included in that law are instructions to consider es-tablishing standards for screening of military uni-form items, including com-

bat boots.Only service members on

orders and in uniform will be granted access to any ex-pedited security screening procedures that have been developed, officials said.

The new law calls for

changes to be implemented within six months.

Transportation Security Administration officials say the agency is now “in con-sultation with DOD,” and “is

Leaders ready for 2012 challenges

LEADERS Page 9

Playing politics, Page 6

Story and photosby Luis Delgadillo Fort Buchanan Public Affairs

Fort Buchanan’s first inter-nal leadership training program celebrated a major milestone December 19 when 14 mem-bers of the Fort Buchanan community graduated from the Civilian Leader Development

Program. The three-month course

challenged students with class-es that included the Civilian Foundation Course, the Action Officer Development Course, Master Resiliency Training, Human Resources for Supervi-sors, and the Military Decision Making Process, among others.

Students had to learn very quickly how to balance their daily work responsibilities with the demands of the classes, which included 250 hours of resident course work.

“I came to work really early in the morning and after train-ing I came back to the office to get some things done, accom-

plish a few things,” said Irma Santiago, administrative assis-tant for the Director of Emer-gency Services.

“It was (difficult) but it can be done, you know it’s just that sometimes you have to sacri-fice a little bit,” she said.

Graduates of the Civilian Leadership Development Program celebrate with a group photo after their graduation ceremony Dec. 19. From left: Grace Mein-hofer, Col. John D. Cushman, garrison commander, Lillian Calderón, David Cortés, Roberto Fernández, Marie Ramírez, Irma Santiago, Juan Sanfeliz, Osiris Soto, Manuel Ramos, Magda Rivera, Angel Viruet, Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson, garrison command sergeant major, Mariana Urrutia, and Rafael Contreras, garrison workforce development program specialist. Not pictured are George H. Roman and José Sanchez.

By Army News Service

The Sentinel of the CaribbeanEl Morro

Fort Buchanan

The Command Group2January 2012

Garrison CommanderCol. John D. Cushman

Deputy to the Garrison CommanderGunnar G.F. Pedersen Jr.

Deputy CommanderLt. Col. Kenneth M. Hammond

Garrison Command Sergeant MajorCommand Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson

Public Affairs OfficerGrissel Rosa

Media RelationsPedro Silva

Command InformationLuis Delgadillo

El Morro ContributorsCapt. Taylor Opel

Luis Salazar

1st Mission Support Command Public Affairs OfficerMaj. Carlos M. Cuebas

Mailing address —Public Affairs Office

Building 390 Crane Loop Ste. 311Fort Buchanan PR, 00934-4616

Story submissions —E-mail to: [email protected]

Telephone numbers —(787)707-5762/4486 Fax: (787)707-3362

1st MSC submissions —E-mail to: [email protected]

1st MSC telephone number —(787)707-4988

El Morro is an authorized publica-tion printed in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1.

Contents of El Morro are not neces-sarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Depart-ment of Defense, Department of the Army or U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Buchanan.

El Morro is published monthly by the Public Affairs Office, U.S. Army Garrison. Circulation 5,000.

All editorial content of El Morro is prepared, edited, provided and ap-proved by the U.S. Army Garrison Pub-lic Affairs Office. For guidance on how to submit items for publication e-mail the garrison Public Affairs Office.

The Editor reserves right to edit all submissions and to determine the suit-ability for inclusion in El Morro.

Every effort will be made to publish submissions in a timely manner. How-ever, time, layout, style and editorial considerations, as well as determina-tions for publication, are made by the Commander or the Public Affairs Of-ficer.

El Morro

Commander Commentary

The Army’s Backbone Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson

As another year begins we start working on our “New Year Resolutions”. The desire of improving and the commit-ment to outperform is within each of us. That is why we make a list of things we want to achieve during 2012. As a Soldier and Commander of this installation, I would like to support you on your “reso-lutions”. Our mission states that we are here to provide you – Soldiers, Civilians and your family members – with a quality of life commensurate with the quality of your ser-vice.” Therefore our commit-ment is to help you and your Families accomplish your goals. Fort Buchanan has the facilities and provides the ser-vices that could help you im-prove every area of your life: physical, emotional, social and spiritual.

Some of the most popular goals include resolutions to:

Improve health: lose weight

and exercise more. The Fit-ness Center offers an array of activities to help you be healthier such as: Dance Step Aerobics, Spinning Classes and Zumba, among others. Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else. It not only keeps you healthy but makes you feel better. You can visit the gym, walk or jog around the fitness trail while enjoying our beautiful instal-lation.

Improve finances: Money can be a source of stress in anyone’s life. Army Commu-nity Service Financial Readi-ness/Consumer Advocacy Program can help you get out of debt and save money through their classes – “Using Credit Wisely”, “Managing Financial Stress”, etc.

Improve career: The Em-ployment Readiness Pro-gram can help you get a job or prepare you for a better

job by updating your resume with the new version of USA-JOBS, for example.

Improve education: If you are considering a career change, the Army Continuing Education Services at the Di-rectorate of Human Resourc-es can help you. You can learn something new or upgrade your career through distance learning.

Improve self: To reduce stress and do something dif-ferent the Directorate of Fam-ily, Morale and Welfare offers Karate Lessons, Scuba Div-ing, tours around the island, etc. The Religious Service Office is ready to provide you spiritual guidance in any area in your life. The Army Sub-stance Abuse Program at the Directorate of Human Re-sources can also help you to overcome any problems with drugs or alcohol abuse. It is confidential.

Or volunteer to help others.

Volunteerism can take many forms. You can spend time helping out at the library, at an office, mentoring a child or giving a hand at various or-ganizations. The Army Volun-teer Corps through the Instal-lation Volunteer Coordinator could really use your help while you learn new skills.

New Year’s has always been a time to look at the past, but most importantly, to look forward into the future. It is a time to reflect on the changes we want in our lives and make the “resolution” to make them happen. Whether you want to get fit, manage debt, man-age stress or help others, Fort Buchanan offers a wealth of resources to meet just about anyone’s goals. Believe in yourself. Keep a positive at-titude. Celebrate each step you take; it is one step closer to meeting your “New Year Resolution”. Let’s start 2012 Army Strong.

As this is my first “winter” at Fort Buchanan I am learn-ing that the Holiday Season ex-tends well into January, which is a welcomed blessing to us all because it means more special time to spend with family.

While reflecting on the rea-sons for cherishing our loved ones we must remember that such good will should be ex-tended throughout the year. Especially when we open the mailbox to find those high credit card bills that will inevi-tably arrive.

Overspending during the holidays can have a serious negative effect on relationships and in many cases it leads to domestic violence. In fact ac-cording to statistics compiled by the Family Advocacy Pro-gram, January is a time when instances of domestic violence spike. For many military cou-ples this is a reality.

Sadly, this translates to one of the busiest times of the year

for Wilda Díaz, the Family Ad-vocacy Program manager for Fort Buchanan.

According to the program’s Web site the FAP, “emphasizes prevention, education, prompt reporting, investigation, inter-vention and treatment of spouse and child abuse. In addition, a variety of services are provided to Soldiers and Families to de-velop their relationship skills, parenting skills, and improve their quality of life. This mis-sion is accomplished through a variety of groups, seminars, workshops, and counseling and intervention services. Seminars and workshops are available to individuals, units, and Family Readiness Groups. Unit com-manders are encouraged to contact their Family Advocacy Program staff to schedule sem-inars that meet their specific need.” If you or someone you know needs help do not hesi-tate to get it.

In January there are oppor-

tunities for Soldiers and Fam-ily members to gain an upper hand on finances by developing their money management skills through attending any one of the available Financial Readi-ness Program classes offered by Arlene Romero, the Army Community Services FRP manager. To find a listing of classes pick up a copy of the Di-rectorate of Family and Morale Welfare and Recreation’s pub-lication, “Live and Explore.” The most significant difference between the new year and 2011 is perhaps that Operation New Dawn has ended. Our nation has sacrificed greatly to bring the people of Iraq a chance to control their destiny through free elections and democratic principles.

Puerto Rico’s brave ser-vice men and women bore a heavy burden throughout the past eight years and none en-dured hardship more than the hundreds of Gold Star Family

members in our community. For the Families of the es-

timated 87 service men and women of Puerto Rican de-scent who made the ultimate sacrifice I offer my sincerest thanks.

Our nation is eternally grate-ful to you for the sacrifice you have endured and as a small token of that gratitude I want to reiterate that Fort Buchanan stands ready to serve you as steadfastly as your loved one served the nation.

To our Wounded Warriors and their Families the same holds true. Fort Buchanan ex-ists to support the members of the military across the island.

I invite you all to read the letter from our Army leaders on page three. It is truly great what we have accomplished as a nation. Our strength, is the strength of the nation and as we enter the New Year let us not waiver in our commitment to excellence. Army Strong.

The Sentinel of the CaribbeanEl Morro Fort Buchanan

From The Top 3January 2012

New Dawn comes to a close

A new year is a new start, a new beginning. Let’s take the first days of the 2012 to reflect about our priorities, finding a renewed perspective on our individual and collective goals, mis-sions and strategies.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernández,Commander, U.S. Army Reserve in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican Warriors continue a noble tradition of serviceHappy New Year 2012!I encourage everyone in the com-

mand to develop clear individual goals for the 2012 and work hard to achieve them.

We must also understand that our individual goals and objectives have a direct impact in the overall success of this command. Every contribution is critical.

As members of this command, our mission is to ensure the Reserve Forces in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, are ready to support the Nations’ objec-tives, around the world. Everyone on the 1st MSC’s team supports this mis-sion.

As our troops continue making huge sacrifices in far away battlefields, we must press hard to ensure they have ev-erything they need.

Our troops deserve your personal best effort. It is our priority number one to ensure our Soldiers and their Fami-lies are ready to go through the mo-bilization process, and that they have all the required tools to be successful

while mobilized.In 2012, I expect our leaders to con-

tinue being mentors and to lead by ex-ample. Since our people are our most valuable asset, we can only be success-ful if we take care of our workforce.

In the New Year, we must also keep in mind that the strength of our troops comes from the strength of our Fami-lies. That is why I encourage each one of you to connect with your Families and to have a healthy quality of life.


Fort Buchanan

News4January 2012

Army loses hard-fought game to NavyLANDOVER, Md. (Army

News Service, Dec. 11, 2011) -- Twice the 112th showdown between the Black Knights and Navy was tied, and it looked close all the way into the fourth quarter, but Army couldn’t prevent the midshipmen from scoring two field goals, mak-ing the final score 27-21.

Not even President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden or a country musician could turn the high tide of Navy which left with its 10th consecutive win in the acad-emy rivalry.

But Army did capture its first rushing title since 1998. Sophomore running back Ray-mond Maples had 984 yards rushing going into the game, only 16 shy of posting the 15th 1,000-yard season in Army history. He achieved his goal and more during the game with a total of 18 yards in the first quarter, giving him a total of 1,002 yards.

“It was a good game,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Myer, originally from San Antonio, Texas, who attended the game from where he’s stationed at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. He teaches, mentors and coaches the young cadets and preps them for mili-tary life.

“It was nice and tight up un-til the fourth quarter, obvious-ly, and we just turned the ball over too much and that’s what hurt us all year, turnovers,” Myer said. “But I think we could have done better, if we held onto the ball a little more. That was our biggest fault,” he said.

“Defense played a great game, better than their previ-ous games, but as a team, if we’re not working together as a team then it doesn’t mat-ter what side is doing better than the other, it’s all about the team,” said Myer.Obama Tosses Coin

Six Army cadets stood at mid-field with the colors as

By Rob McIlvaineArmy News Service

the Naval Academy Combined Men’s and Women’s Glee Club and Gospel Choir, under the direction of Aaron Smith, sang the National Anthem. The entire stadium joined in and cheered as the song ended.

Both Obama and Biden at-tended the game and took part in the coin flip to kick off the classic game that was first played in 1890 on a bet be-tween a cadet and a midship-man. The commemorative gold coin featured the likeness of the late President Ronald Reagan. Obama tossed the coin; Army called tails; won and elected to receive.

“Thank you, Mister Presi-dent,” said the ref as the presi-dent shook hands with the players and walked off the field and was interviewed by CBS newscasters on the air.

With the sun starting to dip behind the stadium, casting a shade across the field, the game began under sunny skies and a temperature of 45 degrees with nine to 16 mph winds from the north-northwest -- a good omen for both teams who prefer to keep the ball on the ground rather than airing it out. First Half

The teams took the field at

2:50 p.m. with Army’s Scott Williams, #10, back deep. He received the ball and ran to the 26-yard line. Quarterback Trent Steelman, #8, started rolling up the field with Ma-ples carrying the ball to the 43.

But trouble kept plaguing Army.

They made their 20th fumble of the year in the first quarter.

Just minutes later, Navy made a touchdown and scored ACADEMIES Page 7

the extra point.After getting the ball, Navy

held and began proving again their dominance on the field.

But then Army QB Steel-man, a junior class member, ran 34 yards for Army’s first TD and Alex Carlton, a senior, made the extra point.

Things were looking good during the second quarter.

Army sacked Navy’s QB Kriss Proctor for a loss of 8

yards. They punted 35 yards, and Army got the ball at the Navy 49-yard line, but Navy forced a fumble by Jabaree Tuani and recovered. A few plays later and Navy fullback #39 Alexander Teich banged out 10 yards and scored, with the following extra point good.

Army got close with Ray-mond Maples making a 13-

Army Chief of Staff Raymond T. Odierno shows his sportsmanship by donning a Navy jersey after Army lost it’s 10th consecutive football game to the Midship-men of Annapolis at FedEx Field Dec. 10, 2011.

Photo by J.D. Leipold

Photo by Master Sgt. David Largent

Army Fullback Larry Dixon rushes for seven yards to the Army 36 yard line during the first quarter.


NewsEl Morro Fort Buchanan January 2012

5

Soldiers from C Company 35th Expeditionary Signal Battalion and 215th Military Police Company listen to Elsa Cortés, Family Support Program director, briefing during their Phase I & II Yellow Ribbon event on Dec. 10.

Time to celebrate, be grateful and for some ...

SAN JUAN – Service members as-signed to the 215th Military Police Company and C Co., 35th Expedi-tionary Signal Battalion participated in a Yellow Ribbon Training, Dec. 10 – 11, at the Caribe Hilton Hotel, as part of their preparation before mobilizing to Afghanistan.

“I know that it is not the best time for all of us because this is a very special time of year, but I’m one hundred percent sure that my family feels very proud of the work that we are doing and we also are proud of that” said Cpl. Kenneth Henríquez, a member of the 215th MP CO and one of two brothers who will soon be deploying together within the same unit.

Cpl. Henríquez, 31 and his young-er brother, Spc. Henríquez, Ray, 25, will be mobilizing together for the first time in their three years of ser-vice.

“I consider that we’ve had the time necessary to be able to prepare our Families and have them feel comfort-able and well and for them to know the support they have from the Mili-tary”, stated the younger brother.

Both expressed the confidence they have in their training and, al-though it has been a long process, Cpl. Henriquez stated he is confident their Families will receive great sup-port from the Family Support Group.

The Army Reserve Family Sup-

Story and photos by Cadet María Rivera BáezFor 1st MSC Public Affairs

port Program is designed to provide numerous tools to Soldiers and their Families during the pre-mobiliza-tion, mobilization and post mobili-zation stages of their deployment, through the Yellow Ribbon program.

“The benefits of the Yellow Rib-bon Reintegration program are nu-merous; the volunteers of the pro-

gram are very dedicated and have a genuine sense of service to the Sol-diers and their Families in every mo-ment of their separation”, said Ms. Elsa Cortés, 1st MSC Family Sup-port Program Director.

Part of the Family Pro-gram is the Child, Youth and School Services Program.

It focuses on providing solu-tions for youth development, to provide assis-tance to parents and finding re-sources within the local govern-ment agencies to support the Fam-ilies of those Soldiers who are mobilized.

“It is important for Soldiers to know that there is a program here that takes care of their children and that we develop activities with their children in mind”, said Ms. Janeska Barrientos the Community Outreach

Time to say goodbye

Spc. Ray Henríquez,, member of the 215th MP Co., and his wife Mrs. Yashira Rivera listen to the briefings given at the Phase I & II Yellow Ribbon event on 10 Dec. as part of their preparation before mobilizing to Afghanistan.

Specialist. Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernández,

Commanding General and Com-mand Sgt. Maj. René Rivera, Com-mand Sergeant Major of the 1st MSC, were present at the event. Both

highlighted the importance of each and every Soldier and mo-tivated them and their Families to use the services available.

One of the agencies that to-tally supports military Families is the San Juan Municipality.

In order to rec-ognize their sup-port to the US Army Reserve Families in Puer-to Rico, Brig.

Gen. Fernández presented the Com-mander’s Award for Public Service to Mrs. Blanca Benitez Soto, for her arduous labor and volunteer work in support of the military Families and the island’s veterans.

The benefits of the Yellow Rib-bon Reintegration program are numerous; the volunteers of the program are very dedicated and have a genuine sense of service to the Soldiers and their Families in every moment of their separa-tion.

Elsa Cortés- Family Support Program Director


News6January 2012

El Morro Fort Buchanan

reviewing options for imple-menting procedures that will adhere to the new law.”

Already, the TSA had policies in place that help expedite the movement of uniformed service members though the security screen-ing process.

Soldiers with proper iden-tification are not required to remove their boots or shoes unless the footwear sets off screening equipment.

Families of service mem-bers can obtain gate passes to go with service members to their departure gates to see them off, or to be standing at arrival gates when they get off the plane.

Additionally, the TSA has worked with DOD to make

it easier for injured service members to negotiate the screening process.

The Military Severely Injured Joint Services Op-erations Center Program en-sures that any screening is “conducted by TSA screen-ing experts with empathy and respect in order to make the overall experience for the service member as expe-ditious and pleasant as pos-sible.”

Transportation Security Administra-tion Officer Desiree Kalin demon-strates to Spc. Victoria Grudzinski and Spc. Michael Rhoades, 229th Military Intelligence Battalion, the proposed pre-screening procedures for air travel of service members us-ing their military identification.

Photo by Steven L. Shepard

TSA, From Page 1

Rules restrict political activity by DOD personnelBy Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (Jan. 5, 2012) -- With election ac-tivity steadily picking up, defense officials are in the process of issuing regular election-year guidance to re-mind military and Defense Department civilians that they’re subject to rules regu-lating their involvement in political activities.

This issue -- one the de-partment regularly address-es during election periods -- came to light earlier this week after an Army Reserve Soldier in uniform appeared endorsing a political candi-date.

Several sets of rules help to protect the integrity of the political process, DOD of-ficials said. DOD Directive 1344.10 applies to members of the armed forces, whether they serve on active duty, as members of the reserve com-ponents not on active duty, as National Guard members in a non-federal status and mili-tary retirees.

In addition, the Hatch Act applies to federal civilian employees and employees also are subject to widely

published DOD guidance that discusses participation in political campaigns and elections.

These rules are designed to prevent military members’ or federal civilian employees’ participation in political ac-tivities that imply -- or even appear to imply -- official sponsorship, approval or en-dorsement, officials said. The concern, they explained, is that actual or perceived par-tisanship could undermine the legitimacy of the military profession and department.

That’s not to imply, how-ever, that military members and civilian employees can’t participate in politics. In fact, DOD has a longstanding pol-icy of encouraging members to carry out the obligations of citizenship, officials said. DOD encourages its mili-tary and civilian members to register to vote and vote as they choose, they said. Both groups can sign nominating petitions for candidates and express their personal opin-ions about candidates and is-sues.

However, officials empha-sized, they can do so only if they don’t act as, or aren’t

perceived as, representatives of the armed forces in carry-ing out these activities.

Beyond that, the list of do’s and dont’s differs depending on whether the employee is a member of the armed forces, a career civil service employ-ee, a political appointee or a member of the career Senior Executive Service, officials said.

Military members, for ex-ample, may attend political meetings or rallies only as spectators and not in uni-form. They’re not permit-ted to make public political speeches, serve in any of-ficial capacity in partisan groups or participate in par-tisan political campaigns or conventions.

They also are barred from engaging in any political ac-tivities while in uniform.

A combat engineer as-signed to the 416th Theater Engineer Company potential-ly violated these rules Jan. 3 when he stepped onto a stage at Ron Paul’s headquarters in Ankeny, Iowa, during the Iowa Caucus to offer a per-sonal endorsement. Although he was wearing his uniform, the Soldier was not in an ac-

tive status at the time, Maj. Angela Wallace, an Army Reserve spokeswoman, con-firmed.

Wallace emphasized that the Soldier “stands alone in his opinions regarding his political affiliation and be-liefs, and his statements and beliefs in no way reflect that of the Army Reserve.”

His chain of command is aware of the issue and is considering appropriate dis-ciplinary action to take, she said.

Most civilian DOD em-ployees, whose political ac-tivities are governed by the Hatch Act, are permitted to be active in and speak be-fore political gatherings and serve as officers of political parties or partisan groups, of-ficials said. These activities, however, cannot involve fun-draising.

Civilian employees also are permitted to manage cam-paigns, distribute literature, write political articles or serve as a spokesperson for a party or candidate.

There are, however, excep-tions to this, including but not limited to Senior Execu-tive Service.

While the do’s and dont’s concerning political activ-ity may vary, the basic tenets hold true for all DOD em-ployees.

The bottom line, officials said, is that they should steer clear of any activity that may be reasonably viewed as di-rectly or indirectly associat-ing DOD or the military with a partisan political activity, or that “is otherwise contrary to the spirit or intent” of the rules described.


News

Trusted Traveler Sponsor-ship Program. The Garrison Commander has authorized DOD identification and Fed-eral Government Identifica-tion card holders over the age of twenty-one (21) to vouch for occupants in their imme-diate vehicle, provided the Trusted Traveler vehicle op-erator possess a valid identi-fication card.

All personnel with DoD and Federal identification are allowed to vouch for and/or sponsor six visitors which include children (One car or van). This is a 90 day trial program to determine if this program should be continued. Visitors in the vehicle must comply with the requirement to have identification on their person at all times while on the installation, and the Se-curity Guards at the gates or

Police personnel may request that identification as part of a Force Protection measure to ensure security on the instal-lation.

A key component of this program is that Trusted Trav-elers are responsible for the actions and conduct of all the occupants in their vehicle at all times while on Fort Bu-chanan. Failure to properly supervise visitors may result in the revocation of the Trust-ed Traveler sponsorship sta-tus for up to six months for a first time offense. Subsequent offenses based on severity of the visitor’s offense may re-sult in both the sponsor and visitor being barred for one year or more.

If you have any ques-tions please contact the fol-lowing numbers 787-707-3319/3496/3337.


7January 2012

The TRICARE Dental Program has implemented changes in Survivor Benefits in response to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111-84. A

As a result, the TDP Survi-vor Benefit is now available to surviving children through the end of the month they turn 21, or 23 if enrolled in a full-time accredited college or university.

Survivor benefit coverage for spouses continues for three years from the month following the sponsor’s death. Current TDP enrollees do not have to take any ac-tion for the Survivor benefit

to take effect. Survivors NOT enrolled in the TRICARE Dental Program at the time of their sponsor’s death will need to complete the enroll-ment process for the TDP Survivor Benefit to take ef-fect. If a Survivor was not enrolled in the TRICARE Dental Program at the time of their sponsor’s death, and the Survivor wishes to partic-ipate in the TRICARE Dental Program Survivor Benefit, CAC Personnel and Casualty Assistance Officers should assist Survivors with enroll-ment. At Fort Buchanan eli-gible survivors can contact Angel Castro at 787-707-3692.

Garrison’s new Trusted Traveler Program gives visitors entry

Tricare Dental Program survivor benefit and eligibility changes

ACADEMIES, From Page 4

yard carry to the 14 where he was tripped up by Navy. After Malcolm Brown carried Army to the 5, they line up again, and he runs it in. The extra point by Carlton was good, tying the game 14-14.

HALFTIMEArmy coach Rich Ellerson

said, “This is going to be a heck of a game. We’re going to come back and play hard and have fun,” he said to a sideline reporter, as the Black Knights left the field for the locker room.

The president switched sides to spend the second half with Army. He walked between a long of line of midshipmen and cadets lining the middle of the field and saluted as he walked between the gray on one side, blue on the other to cheers.

Following the Naval Acad-emy Drum and Bugle Corps, a huge American flag was un-veiled by many young people, as the entire stadium joined in to sing along with country mu-sician Lee Greenwood as he sang an inspiring rendition of his song, “God Bless the USA.” When the song ended the chant of “USA, USA, USA, USA” resounded from the stands, as the teams took to the field.

Greenwood’s song was orig-inally released in the spring of 1984, and was played at the Republican National Conven-tion with President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan in attendance.

But the song gained greater prominence during the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991, and again after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and in May 2011 when Osama bin Laden was killed.Second Half

Navy began with their third touchdown, taking the game to 21-14 in the first few minutes of the third quarter.

But a 25-yard pass from Steelman to Brown and Carl-ton’s extra point tied the game at 21 with nine minutes and 45 seconds left in the third quarter.

“We worked for 10 years to get this game here,” said Daniel Snyder, Washington Redskins owner. “We hope to

create a new tradition here,” he said to the CBS sidelines reporter.Fateful Fourth Quarter

Quickly, Navy got to their 1-yard line, but a huge penalty prevented them from scoring. Jon Teague kicked a field goal giving Navy the go-ahead, 24 to 21.

Following the kickoff, Ar-my’s Scott Williams returned but was hit hard and fumbled. Navy recovered the ball at Ar-my’s 27-yard line.

Teague attempted a 44-yard field goal and made it, taking the lead in the game 27 to 21.

Navy’s defense continued until Army called a timeout at 5:50 p.m. with 4:39 left in the game. Again Army couldn’t move after a running attempt at 4th and seven.

Navy took over at their own 26 but couldn’t run out the clock. After punting, Army got the ball back on their 10-yard line with two seconds remain-ing.

Steelman’s pass was com-plete for a 29-yard reception by Davyd Brooks, but the clock ran out with Navy taking their 10th in a row from Army 27 to 21.

“One of the great traditions in all of college football, the vanquished go before their col-

leagues as the Army’s alma mater is played,” said Nantz.

Afterward, the Army Black Knights went over and stood before the midshipmen as Navy sang their alma mater to cheers from the midshipmen.Presidential Tradition

Since President Theodore Roosevelt’s first appearance more than 100 years ago at the Army-Navy game, the com-mander-in-chief’s attendance at the annual clash between the service academies has become a tradition. It was also Roos-evelt who began the tradition of neutrality by a president when, at halftime, he crossed over from one academy’s side to the other to watch the game. Army won that year at Frank-lin Field in Philadelphia, 11 to 5. Harry S. Truman attended one game in 1948 when they tied, John F. Kennedy attended the game the first two years of his presidency and Army lost both times, and Gerald Ford attended in 1974 when Army lost. Bill Clinton, 22 years lat-er, attended the 1996 game and watched Army win 28 to 24. George W. Bush came for the first time in 2001 and watched Army win 26 to 17, and he attended the 2004 and 2008 games with Army losing both times.

President Barack Obama switched to the Army side of the field to root with the cadets following half-time at the 112th meeting with Navy. Army lost in a hard-fought game to Navy for the 10th consecutive time, 27-21.

Photo by J.D. Leipold


News8January 2012


Defense strategy will keep pre-eminence

Visit our YouTube channel to see the latest video news sto-ries from the Fort Buchanan Public Affairs Office.

To suggest story ideas or if you’d like to bring attention to an individual who stands out in our community contact the

Fort Buchanan Public Affairs Office at 787)707-5762 or [email protected]

www.youtube.com/user/FortBuchanan

President Barrack Obama, right, briefs the press with Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, left, at the Pentagon, Jan. 5, 2012. Obama, Panetta and Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered remarks on the Defense Strategic Guidance for the Defense Department going forward. Army Secretary John McHugh and Army Chief of Staff Raymond T. Odierno stand behind Panetta and Obama.

Photo by Erin A. KirkCuomo

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama announced Jan. 5 a defense strategy he said will allow the military to defend the United States and its national interests while cutting military spending in a responsible, bal-anced manner.

The president spoke about the conclusions of the defense strategy review at the Pentagon briefing room today. The strat-egy review’s bottom line is that the United States armed forces will remain the pre-eminent military force in the world, the president said in a letter attached to the review. White House and Pentagon planners will use the strategy to fund the budget Obama will submit to Congress in February. The strategy will lead to more than $450 billion in defense cuts over the next 10 years.

“As commander in chief, I am determined that we meet the challenges of this moment responsibly and that we emerge even stronger in a manner that preserves American global lead-ership, maintains our military superiority and keeps faith with our troops, military Families and veterans,” Obama said.

The president stressed that

By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service

this is a moment of transition for the military; after 10 years of war, he said, now is the time to make these changes. He pointed

to successes against al-Qaida, including killing Osama bin Laden, as well as the withdrawal from Iraq and the beginning of

the turnover of areas in Afghani-stan to Afghan control as signs that the sacrifices American Sol-diers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and civilians are having an effect. As the con-flicts end, the U.S. military will regroup and focus on broader challenges, especially as they pertain to the Asia-Pacific re-gion, the president said. Obama had vowed to shift the focus dur-ing a trip to the region last year.

The United States also will work to maintain progress in the Middle East, Central Asia and North Africa. The strategy is not limited to the Defense Depart-ment, Obama said. All aspects of the U.S. government must work together, he explained, including diplomacy, development, home-land security and intelligence.

The president vowed to avoid mistakes made in downsizing the military after past wars, such as the “hollow force” of the late 1970s and early 1980s that fol-lowed the Vietnam War.

“We will ensure that our mili-tary is agile, flexible and ready for the full range of contingen-cies,” Obama said.

The United States will con-tinue to invest in capabilities to combat the full-range of threats, the president said. He specifi-cally mentioned investing in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance programs and counter-terrorism capabilities, combating anti-access technolo-gies, countering weapons of mass destruction and prevailing in all domains, including the cy-ber world.

“Most importantly, we will keep faith with our troops, mili-tary Families and veterans who have borne the burden of a de-cade of war and who make our military the best in the world,” the president said. While the military must make tough fiscal choices, Obama said, funding will continue to focus on wound-ed warriors, mental health pro-grams and Families.


NewsEl Morro Fort Buchanan January 2012

9

Col. John D, Cushman speaks to the inaugural graduating class of Fort Buchanan’s Civilian Leader Development Program Dec. 19, The CLDP is a program designed to encourage junior-level employees to take on greater responsi-bility within their organizations at Fort Buchanan and prepares them for the next in their careers.

Photos by Luis Delgadillo

LEADER, From Page 1

Learning to balance the course and her responsibilities in the DES has proved to be an unexpected benefit of the lead-ership course. Santiago also at-tributes part of her success in the course to the support of her coworkers in DES.

“I noticed that all of my peers acknowledged that I was doing all of this and they appreciated that I was tak-ing the time to get back to the office because they needed me or because they needed some-thing,” said Santiago.

Such sup-port is not just limited to peers. The growth of the CLDP comes from Installation Management Command’s Line of Effort 5, which includes workforce development. This emphasis on growing lead-ers and maintaining a highly trained workforce has also been fully supported by Col. John D. Cushman, the garrison com-mander.

It was Cushman, after all who approved the creation of the workforce development program specialist position within the Directorates of Hu-man Resources. The person in this position, Rafael Contreras,

served as the day-to-day men-tor of the group of 14 students and it was he along with vari-ous installation subject matter experts who provided the struc-ture for the course.

Just before delivering his congratulations to the CLDP graduates Dec. 19 Cushman took some time to thank senior garrison staffers who carved time from their busy schedules

to teach some of the cours-es.

“I am very thankful for the people who are in this room right now because a lot of you are key leaders of your own right and you have shown a dedication to this pro-gram. Some

people could say, ‘well, yeah I was told to do it and I follow orders,’ well it takes a little more than that and the people in this room care very much for this program and care very much for seeing Fort Buchan-an become a better place and that’s part of what this leader-ship development program is all about,” said Cushman.

Like the CLDP instructors that Cushman spoke of, caring for the future of the installation is why people like Santiago stepped forward to take the course.

She even has plans to imple-ment the skills she has learned.

“I already have plans to have biweekly or monthly meetings with my peers, my other clerks at the office, so I can share with them what I learned in this training … my bosses love ideas so I’ll be doing that,” said Santiago.

Among the 14 students, there was one who stood out enough for her peers to nominate her as group team leader.

Throughout the course Ma-rie Ramírez, an administrative

assistant for the Directorate of Public Works, proved that she was driven and focused on ex-panding her skills while also fostering a positive atmosphere for teamwork to flourish.

As group team leader, Ramírez gave a speech to the guests in attendance during which she reflected on the sig-nificance of the CLDP.

“We started this journey with courses such as Master Resiliency Training, Effective Communication and (military tradition) and then we took one

I am very thankful for the people who are in this room right now because a lot of you are key leaders of your own right and you have shown a dedication to this program.

Col. John D. Cushman- Garrison Commander

of the most interesting training (courses) ever, the military de-cision making process.”

Through those courses Ramírez said she strengthened her understanding of “commit-ment, courage, initiative, listen-ing, responsibility and vision,” adding, “I know we all (now) have those qualities to develop our professional careers.”

Even as the memories of classroom coursework evolve the students’, perhaps the most

LEADER Page 12

Fort Buchanan’s organizational page is now available on Facebook

From Facebook.com Search “U.S. Army Garrison Fort Buchanan”

then find our government organization page.

Fort Buchanan now has an official page on Facebook. Find photos, video and important news and event information

from us here by logging on and clicking “like” on our page. Find the photos from the Civilian Leader Development Program graduation and many other events on our page.

Marie Ramírez, an administrative assistant with the Directorate of Public Works speaks to her fellow CLDP graduates and guests Dec. 19. Ramírez was selected by her peers as group team leader for the CLDP’s inaugural class.

The Sentinel of the CaribbeanJanuary 201210 El Morro Readers Surveyhttp://www.flickr.com/photos/fortbuchanan_elmorro/

The results are in: El Morro readers surveyFrom Aug. 25 to Sept. 30 of last year the El

Morro editorial board asked you, our read-ers, to give us some feedback about the contents of your community newspaper.

We made the survey available in Spanish and Eng-lish, online and through interviews held at the Post Exchange lobby. According to the majority of our 163 respondents, El Morro was perceived as an im-portant communication tool that strongly represents you, our community members.

As indicated by your answers, the demograph-ic profile of our readers is: mostly males; civil-ians; retired from the military, followed by those who served in the military and are now federal government employees, family members of a ser-vice member or former service members; between the ages of 51 to 64 years; with college education (Bachelor’s degree); military ranks go from Colonel to E-4 and some GS civilians; living less than 25 miles away from the installation in municipalities such as Guaynabo, Bayamón, Carolina, Toa Baja, Dorado, Caguas and Vega Baja, among others. Survey responders visit Fort Buchanan 6 or more times a week; use El Morro as one of their primary sources for news or other information from the Fort Buchanan leadership.

Regarding the content of El Morro newspaper, more than half of the responders strongly agree that it is clean, readable, with good and entertain-ing photos, pleasant to look at, free of mistakes and errors in fact. They agree that the stories are high quality and interesting to read; relevant to the read-er’s lives and that the Army Reserve is represented well in El Morro and members of the workforce are highlighted on a regular basis.

Some readers indicated that they like El Morro newspaper just the way it is and we are truly grate-ful for your support. On the other hand, the editorial board also understands that there is always room for improvement and consider very seriously your sug-gestions. Therefore, among the changes suggested by you, please turn to page 18 to see that we added a free “classifieds” section. This section of El Morro is open to retirees, service members and disabled veterans and other members of our community who wish to advertise the sale of a vehicle, property or to announce the date time and location of a yard sale, for example.

You also asked to have El Morro publish a regular schedule of activities. We are glad to tell our read-ers that this information is already available in the Directorate of Family and Morale Welfare and Rec-reation, DFMWR publication, “Live and Explore”. With a circulation of 8,000, the publication is avail-able nearly everywhere that El Morro is distributed.

One of the most significant suggestions from our readers is that they want to see more stories about accomplishments of individuals in the community, recommended that we cover more stories from oth-er military services and to publish El Morro more than once a month. Though all suggestions are not listed here please rest assured that we are actively considering each one. Please check the coming is-


Fort Buchanan

El Morro Readers Survey 11http://www.flickr.com/photos/fortbuchanan_elmorro/

The results are in: El Morro readers surveyFrom Aug. 25 to Sept. 30 of last year the El

Morro editorial board asked you, our read-ers, to give us some feedback about the contents of your community newspaper.

We made the survey available in Spanish and Eng-lish, online and through interviews held at the Post Exchange lobby. According to the majority of our 163 respondents, El Morro was perceived as an im-portant communication tool that strongly represents you, our community members.

As indicated by your answers, the demograph-ic profile of our readers is: mostly males; civil-ians; retired from the military, followed by those who served in the military and are now federal government employees, family members of a ser-vice member or former service members; between the ages of 51 to 64 years; with college education (Bachelor’s degree); military ranks go from Colonel to E-4 and some GS civilians; living less than 25 miles away from the installation in municipalities such as Guaynabo, Bayamón, Carolina, Toa Baja, Dorado, Caguas and Vega Baja, among others. Survey responders visit Fort Buchanan 6 or more times a week; use El Morro as one of their primary sources for news or other information from the Fort Buchanan leadership.

Regarding the content of El Morro newspaper, more than half of the responders strongly agree that it is clean, readable, with good and entertain-ing photos, pleasant to look at, free of mistakes and errors in fact. They agree that the stories are high quality and interesting to read; relevant to the read-er’s lives and that the Army Reserve is represented well in El Morro and members of the workforce are highlighted on a regular basis.

Some readers indicated that they like El Morro newspaper just the way it is and we are truly grate-ful for your support. On the other hand, the editorial board also understands that there is always room for improvement and consider very seriously your sug-gestions. Therefore, among the changes suggested by you, please turn to page 18 to see that we added a free “classifieds” section. This section of El Morro is open to retirees, service members and disabled veterans and other members of our community who wish to advertise the sale of a vehicle, property or to announce the date time and location of a yard sale, for example.

You also asked to have El Morro publish a regular schedule of activities. We are glad to tell our read-ers that this information is already available in the Directorate of Family and Morale Welfare and Rec-reation, DFMWR publication, “Live and Explore”. With a circulation of 8,000, the publication is avail-able nearly everywhere that El Morro is distributed.

One of the most significant suggestions from our readers is that they want to see more stories about accomplishments of individuals in the community, recommended that we cover more stories from oth-er military services and to publish El Morro more than once a month. Though all suggestions are not listed here please rest assured that we are actively considering each one. Please check the coming is-

sues El Morro for further changes. The El Morro editorial board is grateful for your

responses and look forward to the next survey. In the meantime we invite you to be a writer or pho-tographer, just call us. Once again thanks for read-ing El Morro.


Features12January 2012


memorable experience included some simulated weap-ons training where upon recalling it Ramírez said, “al-though some of us showed up in dresses and heels for the exercises we still got the job done.”

Getting the job done is without a doubt what all stu-dents are now better prepared to do.

“We developed the necessary knowledge and skills to become good leaders within our organization. Those skills are the basic foundation to achieve the best ac-tion and decision making at our everyday jobs,” she said.

LEADER, From Page 9

Mariana Urrutia

Lillian Calderón

David Cortés Magda Rivera

Manuel Ramos

Marie Ramírez

Grace Meinhofer

Roberto Fernández José Sanchez

Angel Viruet

Juan Sanfeliz

Irma Santiago

Osiris Soto

Looking to get ahead in your civilian career? Join the movement for self development. You too can be a graduate of the Civilian Leader De-velopment Program. On Jan. 16, the Workforce Development Program will begin receiving ap-plications for its newest crop of future leaders. Space in the CLDP is limited so eligible candi-dates must apply before close of business Feb. 14. For information contact Rafael Contreras at (787) 707-3546 or by e-mail at: [email protected]


Healthy Living 13El Morro Fort Buchanan January 2012

By Chanel S. WeaverU.S. Army Public Health Command

Smokers increase injury, reduce muscle endurance

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND -- Nearly one-third of active-duty ser-vice members smoke, and that figure in-creases among troops in a combat zone, according to the 2008 Department of Defense Survey of Health-Related Be-haviors.

Most Soldiers know that smoking cig-arettes can eventually cause lung cancer and emphysema, but one does not have to wait 20 or 30 years to experience the adverse effects of smoking.

Multiple studies by U.S. Army Public Health Command scientists show that smoking has immediate health effects, such as increased injury risk and dimin-ished physical performance.

“Past studies of Army basic trainees show the risk of injuries among Soldiers who smoke was as much as 90 percent higher than nonsmokers,” said Michelle Chervak, senior epidemiologist at the USAPHC.

“From past data as well as analysis of recent data collected on operational units, we can definitely say that smok-ers have a greater risk of any injury, and more specifically, overuse injuries, [which is] damage to musculoskeletal

tissue that accumulates with repetitive activities such as running,” she added. “Higher injury risk is likely due to fac-tors that impair the body’s healing and repair processes.”

USAPHC studies have also demon-strated that smoking negatively impacts muscle endurance, especially as Sol-diers get older.

“Our data show that smokers perform fewer push-ups and sit-ups on the Army Physical Fitness Test,” said Chervak.

Smoking can also affect mission readiness. USAPHC studies have also shown that Soldiers who use tobacco have reduced night vision and mental sharpness, and increased risk of heat and cold injuries. Nicotine decreases oxygenated blood flow, resulting in a 30 percent reduction in night vision for normal eyes, and 50 percent reduction in those wearing corrective lenses.

Likewise, smoking also causes re-duced blood flow to the extremities, which leads to more heat and cold in-juries as the body is unable to cool and warm them, especially fingers and toes.More Adverse Effects of Smoking

Not only does smoking have a nega-tive effect on a Soldier’s performance, it also has poor health consequences for

the smoker and those in his/her environ-ment.

President Barack Obama’s National Prevention Strategy report states that cigarette smoking causes approximately 443,000 U.S. deaths each year.

These deaths occur as a result of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, strokes, heart attacks, emphysema and other condi-tions.

Second-hand smoke can also be dam-aging to others’ health -- especially chil-dren.

“If Soldiers knew the effect that smoking has on their children, I think more would be encouraged to quit,” said Col. Heidi Warrington, chief nurse ex-ecutive at the USAPHC.

Children who are exposed to sec-ond-hand smoke are at increased risk of suffering from chronic ear infec-tions, asthma and learning disorders, said Warrington. The financial costs of smoking are also significant. A recent Army Times article stated that tobacco use costs the Pentagon $846 million a year in medical care and lost produc-tivity. Not to mention the cost to the smoker, with cigarettes currently rang-ing from $5 to $12 a pack.Benefits of Tobacco Cessation

More than 80 percent of adult ciga-rette smokers start before their 18th birthday, so a key tool to preventing to-bacco addiction is to encourage smokers not to start, said Warrington.

For those who wish to reduce smok-ing, there is good news. USAPHC stud-ies show that the risk of a heart attack decreases 24 hours after stopping smok-ing and, after one tobacco-free year, the risk for heart disease is one-half that of smokers.

Because the nicotine in cigarettes is so addictive, quitting the habit is not easy. But those who wish to quit smok-ing should not be discouraged, said Warrington.

“Any reduction in tobacco use is con-sidered a success,” said Warrington. “Soldiers who are having trouble quit-ting should focus on reducing the amount of cigarettes they smoke, with an ultimate goal of achieving a tobacco-free lifestyle.”

Many military medical treatment fa-cilities offer tobacco cessation classes, and physicians can prescribe medica-tions to help smokers kick the habit. Many communities across the United States also offer tobacco cessation assis-tance and counseling.

Most of us have heard of distem-per vaccination in dogs, but what is the disease? The typical distemper suspect is a rescue or pet store dog or puppy, usually with questionable vaccination history or an incomplete vaccination series. The dog or puppy has most likely been housed with oth-er rescue dogs.

Symptoms begin with: Gooey eye and nose discharge, fever, which of-ten comes and goes unnoticed, poor appetite, and coughing and develop-ment of pneumonia.

The virus attacks the mucous mem-branes and starts with the respiratory tract, causing pneumonia, but it does not stop there. The virus moves on to produce: vomiting and diarrhea, and callusing of the nose and foot pads.

After completing what is called the mucosal phase of infection, the virus proceeds to the central nervous sys-tem for its neurologic phase leading to: Seizures, classically starting with

Protect your pooch from a frightful disease, distemper explainedsnapping or tremors of the jaws that progress to convulsions of the whole body. This distemper classic sign is called a chewing gum fit. Tremors, imbalance, and limb weakness may also occur. Signs may progress to death or may become non-progres-sive and permanent. Recovery is also possible.

The dog may appear to recover from the mucosal stage, only to break with neurologic disease 1 to 3 weeks later. Younger puppies or individuals with weak immunity often die dur-ing the mucosal phase while stronger individuals may have relatively mild mucosal signs and not appear ill until the neurologic phase strikes.

The Virus ItselfThe canine distemper virus is close-

ly related to the human measles virus and in years past puppies were immu-nized for distemper with the vaccine against measles. The distemper virus consists of a single strand of RNA, encased in a protein coat that is again encased in a fatty envelope. The fatty envelope is easily disrupted in the

environment, which makes it impos-sible for infectious virus to persist in the environment. Because an intact fatty envelope is required for infec-tion, virus transmission must involve dog to dog contact or at least contact with extremely fresh (less than 30 minutes old at 60 degrees and up to 3 hours old at room temperature) in-fected body secretions. As with other viruses, living virus happily freezes and can survive for years if kept fro-zen and protected from light. Rou-tine disinfection and cleaning readily kills the distemper virus in a kennel setting.

Transmission and InfectionThe most common way to spread

the infection is through coughing; however the virus can be spread in urine and blood also. The virus enters the new host via the nose or mouth and begins to replicate. By day 8 or 9 the host is mounting an immune re-sponse and the outcome depends on how fast and how well this is accom-plished. A strong immune response begins to clear the virus at this point

and has eliminated all traces of virus with no symptoms of illness by Day 14. A weak immune response allows the virus to reach the epithelial cells, the cells that line every interface the body has with the outside world. The tender epithelial cells lining the chambers of the brain are infected as well. The host begins to get sick as the virus spreads, but as the host’s immune response grows symptoms wane. This phenomenon accounts for the wide variability in symptoms; some dogs get only a few mild symp-toms while others get a full lethal combination.

After clearing from most internal organs, the virus is able to hide out for long periods of time in the ner-vous system and skin. Because of this phenomenon, callusing of skin or - much worse - seizures may oc-cur long after the infection was thought to be cleared. The condition called old dog encephalitis refers to a chronic brain inflammation that

By Capt. Taylor Opel, DVMFort Buchanan Veterinary Treatment Facility

DISTEMPER Page 18


Features14January 2012


Luis Salazar on safety: Let’s try a safety marathonBy Luis SalazarSafety Office Contractor

In an effort to improve the reg-istration process for all Soldiers, the new Web site through the Army IMCOM Registration Sys-tem will make registration for all courses easier to accomplish.

Registration is now required for all driving courses as well as for Motorcycle Safety Founda-tion courses.

The new address is https://apps.imcom.army.mil/AIRS

This site will provide on-line registration and management of traffic safety training courses for the Army Traffic Safety Training Program. You can view course calendars to see what courses are being offered at garrisons in your local area. It will also aid

you in successfully registering for courses electronically using a web based browser or smart phone. To view available cours-es, log on to the link above and select a region and then a garri-son from the drop down menu. From there just choose the date of the course and register.

Army Traffic Safety Training Program gets a new Web site

https://apps.imcom.army.mil/AIRS

At the beginning of next month in the town of Coamo, P.R. a signature event will take shape for the fiftieth time. This event is the San Blas Mara-thon held Feb. 5. You may be asking yourself, what does this have to do with safety, traffic safety or motorcycle safety? San Blas is a mecca to thou-sands of motorcyclists each year.

Sport bikes, cruisers, vintage bikes and the latest crotch rockets will all make their way to this sleepy town in early February to renew their annual pledge as motorcyclists. Of course, there are the myriad of marathoners who participate in the event and the throngs of spectators who witness this activity but to bikers the San Blas Mar-athon is all about things that are related to two wheels in any shape, flavor and form.

You’ll find all the activities that bikers love and riding groups from all over the island will congregate to their favorite hangout. Some will want to compete in show events with their bikes. There will be a lot of chrome and modifications that will show off bikes costing in the thousands. Lots of motor noise, incredible paint jobs and plenty of rubber will be burned with wheelies here and there.

You’ll also find that these favorite watering holes will also serve the brew that anyone may want to consume. Sometime after the drinking begins the problems on the highway will usually follow.

Just the other day a young Soldier from the town of Mayaguez, who was taking the motorcycle safety class here at Fort Buchanan, was changing shirts prior to us going out on the range for

the hands on portion of the class. As he did I noticed a long thin surgical scar that went from his upper arm across to his clavicle in a boomerang shape. Knowing that broken collar bones are intrinsically related to motorcycle rid-ing I asked him “where did you get the scar?” He answered “I got this at San Blas.” He then proceeded to relate a story of how they had ridden from Mayaguez to Coamo “over the moun-tains.” He told of how they were speed-ing through curves, having fun and the trip getting there was pretty much problem free. Upon returning home the story turned a little awkward as the group eventually had a few drinks.

This Soldier went on to say “All we had were a few drinks during the day but the heat, the dehydration and the li-quor intake all piled up. As we returned home I lost control of the motorcycle in a curve near the town of Maricao. That is where I could not manage a sharp curve then fell and crashed into a con-crete retaining wall receiving a broken upper arm, collar bone with extensive road rash throughout my left arm. It took several weeks for the road rash to cure and all that time I had to deal with the broken collar bone and broken arm placed in a sling. It was only six weeks after the crash that my skin had healed enough for the doctors to finally oper-ate and successfully set my humerus and collar bone”.

This type of story is all too true yet tragically quite common. Not long before this Soldier shared this story another Soldier from a class previous related a similar tale. Most motorcycle riders live under the myth that drinking and driving a car is the same as drink-ing and riding a motorcycle. Puerto Rico law defines a person legally drunk

on a motorcycle with a .02 BAC (blood alcohol content) and above. Some rid-ers think this to be unfair and I’ve heard many complain that a motorcycle BAC should be the same as the legal BAC in a car which is .08. What many rid-ers don’t seem to take into account is that a motorcycle and a car will never handle the same. The stability on a mo-torcycle is a continuous challenge for its rider. Calculations as far as time, speed and lean angles have to be made in a manner that would make any home computer blow its core after only a few minutes of riding. Most riders are ac-customed to making these calculations on the fly (which when sober are hard enough). A rider must use his eyes and mind in such a way that even at slow speeds any wrong maneuver will more than likely result in a serious motor-cycle spill. If you crash in a car you have seat belts, air bags, bumpers, crush zones and other things that will protect you. On a motorcycle outside of the protection afforded by personal protective equipment all you’ve got is just you. But you know all that, right?

The other fairy tale that most riders seem to accept as truth that falling off a motorcycle or crashing when drink-ing ‘will never happen to me.’ I’ve met many riders who will argue that they “can drink and ride my motorcycle just as well sober as with a few drinks.” HELLO???

Talk about believing a fairy tale. Sta-tistics show that just a moderate amount of alcohol and riding a motorcycle can be a fatal decision. The National High-way Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) numbers show that while motorcycles account for only three percent of motor vehicle registrations, they make up 11 percent of total mo-

tor vehicle fatalities. About 46 percent of riders killed in accidents, according to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), have alcohol in their system at the time of their death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcy-clists involved in fatal crashes are 2.5 times more likely to have consumed alcohol than passenger vehicle drivers. Begin to get the point? But you know all that, right?

At the San Blas Marathon not every-one finishes the race yet at the starting gate all participants run with enthusi-asm and the expectation that they will finish. Maybe we should take a lesson from those marathoners that manage running up and down the hills of Coa-mo.

The ones who finish successfully and receive the prize are those who stay strong until the end. I’ve been in enough situations with fellow bikers to know that you have to summon a lot of fortitude to JUST SAY NO.

As you mount your bike and head to Coamo this February think about all that you have and give thanks. Keep family, friends and co-workers in your thoughts and just say no to drinking and riding.

Ah yes remember the Soldier who fell from his bike? When I asked him what he had learned from the fall-ing off the motorcycle he never said I wish I had safer tires or I wish I could have had better handling skills or even agreeable weather. All he said with a solemn passion was “I learned not to drink while riding my bike.” Though at the time he did pay a hefty price, today with all the lessons learned he rides as a winner. As always stay safe and let me know how it went.

15

Carolina, PR- With the applause and cheers of the passengers present, at one of the Luis Muñoz Marín Inter-national Airport boarding gate, U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers boarded the plane that would take them to Fort Bliss, TX, in preparation for their mobilization to Afghanistan, 18 Dec.

“I feel kind of sad because he is my only child, and one gets worried. However, I am very proud of him, because he has a great responsibility with his troops,” said Lourdes Roble-do, mother of Capt. Francisco Vargas, the commander of the 215th Military Police Detachment, unit being mobi-lized.

“They all are very good Soldiers, they are professionals and we all are ready for any mission. The troops are highly trained and ready,” said Var-gas, minutes before going through the security gate being used for Sol-diers only.

Earlier that morning, Brigadier General Fernando Fernández, com-mander of the US Army Reserve-Puerto Rico, talked to the troops about the relevance of their mobiliza-tion.

“With your service, you continue the great tradition of Puerto Rican military service. Once you arrive to Afghanistan, you will not only repre-sent your unit, you will represent ev-ery Soldier from Puerto Rico,” said Fernández.

The 215th Military Police Detach-

215th MP Co. Soldiers deploy to Afghanistanment will receive additional training at Fort Bliss TX, before departing to Afghanistan.

The members of the unit will pro-vide security at determined locations in Afghanistan.

“This is an operational detachment and we do not project that they would have a mission outside the base. How-ever, this situation could change once they arrive to the theater of war”, said Fernández.

“I feel ready, and more important, I feel my wife is ready to face this mo-bilization. She will have the support needed, which makes me feel confi-dent. This will be a good year,” said Spec. José Albarrán, who has been in the Armed Forces for 4 years.

Currently, the US Army Reserve-Puerto Rico has mobilized hundreds of troops in support of the operations in Afghanistan and project to con-tinue with the mobilizations, not only to Afghanistan, but to other places around the world, as well.

“During this holiday season, we realize there are hundreds of Puerto Rican military Families, who cannot celebrate with their loved ones. We are grateful for the great service of our Soldiers and their Families, all year around, but especially during this season,” said Fernández.

By Maj. Carlos Cuebas1st MSC Public Affairs

Spc. José Albarrán, from the 215th Military Police Company, spend the last minutes before

his departure with his one year old daughter, Keyshlanie Albarrán Rojas. The 215th mo-

bilized to Afghanistan, where they will spend most of the upcoming year.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernández, senior US Army Reserve officer in Puerto Rico and the Carib-bean, addresses the Soldiers from the 215th Military Police Company which will be deploying to Afghanistan, after receiving additional training at Fort Bliss, TX.

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ROTC cadets listen to Lt. Col. Daniel A. McCray’s brief as part of a preparatory training that was held this summer at Cam Santiago. McCray is the Commander for the Mayaguez ROTC Battalion.

Family Day for the 613th MP Co. Juana Díaz, PR – With the

holiday season already here it is a great time to get Families together for a day full of ac-tivities for them to enjoy.

With that in mind, the 1st Mission Support Command (1st MSC) Family Readiness Program (FRP) organized a Family Day event at the Juana Díaz Reserve Center for Soldiers and family mem-bers from the 613th Military Police Company (613th MP Co.) on 3 Dec. 2011.

“In my 23 years, this was the best”, said Staff Sgt. Gris Serrano, assigned to the unit’s operations section and who was part of the organizational team.

“We had the participation

of different family members that really integrated with the program” she added.

For this occasion, the 1st MSC Community Outreach Specialist, Ms. Janeska Bar-rientos, developed various ac-tivities according to the ages of the children and youth, under the Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) pro-gram. The CYSS supports military readiness by reduc-ing the conflict between a Soldier’s mission and his or her parental responsibilities. Such events are full of valu-able information available to Soldiers and dependents.

Barrientos and her staff had the opportunity to de-velop activities for the differ-ent age groups. The younger children were able to take

part in the creation of holi-day ornaments with recycled materials thanks to the vol-unteered assistance of Mrs. Jossie Oquendo, mother of a 1st MSC Soldier.

Also, and in an effort to re-inforce the children’s mental health and help them under-stand and better adapt to the military family lifestyle, they were provided the opportu-nity to participate in the “I’m part of a military family” workbook/dialogue.

While the children were learning how to adapt to their military lifestyle, the youth, on the other hand, participat-ed on a talk that offered them alternatives on relaxation techniques, in order to lower stress levels.

At the end, and to build up

and enhance the importance of the teamwork concept, they also had the opportunity to work with the younger chil-

dren, in a team effort to create a unique Christmas tree out of various materials and orna-ments of their own creation.

Jossie Oquendo (center) and her pupils posses with their state of the art creations build with recycled materials. The children are family members of some of the 613th MP Co. Soldiers who participated on their Family Day at the Juana Díaz Reserve Center.

Photo courtesy Janeska Barrientos

Salinas, PR – Hundreds of Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) ca-dets, among the Military Science Level 3 (MS III) and Military Science level 4 (MSIV), assigned to the Mayaguez Battalion, participated in a field train-ing exercise, 18 Nov. at Camp Santi-ago. The training included land navi-gation and other tactical skills, as part of the cadet’s preparation to attend the Leadership Development and Assess-ment Course (LDAC) held every sum-mer in Fort. Lewis, Wa.

The LDAC is a great milestone for the cadets. The cadet’s performance during the LDAC determines if in fact they are qualified and ready to become officers in the United Sates Army.

“We prepare the MSIIIs junior class on day and night land navigation skills and basic infantry style squad tactical skills. This training is very important because this is the one that prepares them to be successful in LDAC” said retired Master Sgt. Richard Campos, one of the instructors at the Ponce cam-pus.

“We are trying to imitate what they will see at LDAC and this terrain and facilities that we have here (Camp San-tiago) is as close as we can get” said

Campos. The US Army ROTC program was

established in Puerto Rico in 1919. “The Reserve Officer Training Corps

program is a great system that focuses on leadership and developing leaders for tomorrow and the Army, and I love it” stated Lt. Col. Daniel A. McCray, Commander for Mayagüez ROTC Bat-talion.

McCray was once a ROTC student, graduating and commissioning in 1997, and 17 years later he decided to request for assignment as instructor.

“I wanted an opportunity to produce tomorrow’s leaders” said McCray.

The Mayaguez ROTC Battalion, lo-cated at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus, is the head of 6 different Campuses: Mayagüez, Are-cibo, Aguadilla, San German, Ponce, and St. Croix, with the participation of approximately 450 cadets throughout the campuses.

The preparation of the cadets begins as an MSI, moving through the dif-ferent Military Science levels (MSII to MSIII). Once a cadet reaches the MSIII, he or she is considered to attend the LDAC training. After successfully completing the LDAC, then they be-

come MSIVs, until the day of receiv-ing their commission as a 2nd Lt. in the US Army.

“The ROTC program offers leader-ship skills to be able to lead any type of subordinate in different types of environment, combat or noncombat”, commented Master Sgt. Gilberto De La Cruz, instructor from the Aguadil-la campus. Cadet Michael Torres is a MSIII cadet at the Ponce Campus. He is studying Criminal Justice in the In-teramerican University also in Ponce.

“I would recommend the program, I have already told a good friend of mine and he is now also a cadet” said Torres.

Torres’ goal, after commissioning, is to become an active duty Military Police officer. The ROTC gives prior service Soldiers the opportunity to ad-vance in their education by attaining their bachelors or masters degree and to also move on to the next level in their military career.

For more information visit http://www.goarmy.com/rotc.html

ROTC promotes excellence in tomorrow’s leaders

By Staff Sgt. José Santos Santos1st MSC Public Affairs

16

This section is dedicated to highlight a service member from our command, in recognition to his/her hard work and dedication to the mission. Units are en-couraged to submit names every month by the 20th of the month.

1st MSC Excellence Spotlight:

By Cadet Maria RiveraFor 1st MSC Public Affairs

Sandra Rivero Ortíz (left), Special Assistant to the Director of La Casa Cuna de San Juan, ex-presses her joy while observing the reservists taking out the presents while Lt. Col. José Plaza and a home employee observe.

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Beyond toys and gifts, children from La Casa Cuna de San Juan received joy and happiness when US Army Reserve Puerto Rican Soldiers brought them toys and first need articles on 16 Dec. Sandra Rivero Ortiz, Special Assis-tant to the Director of La Casa Cuna

Children welcome donationStory and photos by Staff Sgt. José Santos Santos1st MSC Public Affairs

de San Juan, expressed her joy while observing the reservists taking out the presents: “Definitely, my huge gratitude goes to you guys from the Army because these kids are the big-gest treasure that we have, they have come here in a very sad circumstanc-es but, thanks to this program, their quality of life will improve 100%”. She expressed.

La Casa Cuna de San Juan is the

first home for abused, mistreated and abandoned children administered by a municipal government. This home receives children by voluntary sur-render.

Located in the former naval base in Old San Juan, it houses about 47 children from zero to three years of age. These babies live temporarily in the former residences of the Navy of-ficials while wait to be relocated to a permanent home.

Opened in 2008, when they received her first baby, the house provides var-ious services such as psychosocial, nutritional, health, therapies (physi-cal and speech) among others.

Rivero Ortiz was very pleased with the event. “Visits like this show soli-darity with our commitment to the protection and welfare of children,” she said. For his part, Lt. Col. José Plaza, military officer in charge of coordinating the event, expressed the commitment of the Army Reserve in Puerto Rico to the children and the great satisfaction that they feel by helping them.

“If we can contribute at least for a second to improve the quality of life to these children and help you as an institution, that is our great pleasure,” he said.

1st MSC CG meets with Hispanic vets

Bayamón, PR – To unite in broth-erhood the Latin American countries through its citizens living in Puerto Rico, veterans from different cam-paigns and representatives from dif-ferent Hispanic countries were pres-ent during the 3rd Hispanic-American Meeting, hosted by the American Le-gion (AL), Post 48 at Bayamón, PR on 30 Oct.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernández, Commanding General of the 1st Mission Support Command was the Guest Speaker for this occasion, that was dedicated to the memory of the former Sgt. 1st Class Neftalí Baez.

Baez, a long time member of this Post, served for 20 years in the Amer-ican Legion, occupying key positions in the organization. He also served with the 65th Infantry Regiment dur-ing Korean War and spent 36 years of

his life in the US Armed Forces. A minute of silence was observed

in memory of the fallen Soldiers and deceased veterans, especially for the ones who were part of the American Legion, Post 48.

“Our history is full brave men and women of Hispanic origin who re-sponded to the call of duty to defend the United States. Today we have a living example of that, some of the participants served with the legendary 65th Infantry Regiment in the Korean War”, said Brig. Gen. Fernández.

“We celebrate the contribution of all Spanish-speaking nations of America and the contributions they bring to society in both, Puerto Rico and the United States and also to the Armed Forces”, he added.

Fernández also highlighted the contribution that Brig. Gen. (retired) Antonio Rodríguez Baliñas, who re-cently passed away, made to the His-

panic service members on the Armed Forces.

Migdalia Melton, Post 48 Com-mander of the American Legion, ex-pressed her satisfaction on the event and thanked all the different organi-zations and countries for their partici-pation.

Nicaragua, El Salvador and United States were some of the countries that were present at the event.

Melton also explained to the au-dience how the effort of having this event got started: “The first meeting was on October of 2009. It all started with a proposition from a group of Nicaraguan volunteers who gathered together to affirm our fusion of blood, language and spirit as bonds”.

“And today, here we are, in our third meeting, welcome! Let our bonds predominate over any differ-ence between us and let us have an enduring peace”, said Melton.

17

January 2012 1st MSC Spotlight:

Unit: Recently assigned to the Pentagon Home of Record: Humacao, P.R.

A graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Humacao Campus, Rivera holds two bachelor’s de-grees, one in English as a second language and the other in Nursing.

Rivera has proven to be a dedi-cated and hard working US Army Reserve officer with a long and distinguished career, the experi-ence of three mobilization assign-ments and currently managing the Soldier Processing Readiness Center (SRPC) in the Eastern geo-graphical area of Puerto Rico.

“Norma is a hard worker, very professional and dedicated, I’ve never seen somebody as hard working in my life” said Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernández, US Army Reserve-Puerto Rico, 1st Mission Support Command (1st MSC) Commanding General.

“Thank You for everything you did for the 1st MSC and best luck in your future assignment” said Fernández.

Rivera initiated her military ca-reer at the 65th Regional Support Command, known today as the 1st MSC. At that time, the 65th RSC was commanded by Maj. Gen. Fe-lix Santoni, now retired.

Rivera’s family members, Brig. Gen. Fernández and retired Maj. Gen. Santoni participated in the emotional promotion ceremony.

During this ceremony Rivera also received a Meritorious Ser-vice Medal for her professional-ism, knowledge and devotion to duty.

Norma Rivera, mother of the Lt. Col. (P) with the same name, and former 65th RSC Commander, retired Maj. Gen. Felix Santoni, pin Lt. Col. (P) Norma Rivera to the rank of Colonel.


Around The Post18 El Morro Fort BuchananJanuary 2012

Now available on Flickr.com

Images of you, the Fort Buchanan Community

http://www.flickr.com/photos/fortbuchanan_elmorro/

can occur in a dog that had distemper many years be-fore. These brain lesions are identical to those in dogs that progress to a chronic neuro-logic distemper. For some reason, in some individuals the dog lives nearly all its life as a distemper survivor only to break with neurodistemper in old age.

Most cases in the U.S. in-volve puppies. The colostrum suckled in the first day or so of life will provide them with a solid reflection of their mother’s immunity. This im-munity will have waned by age 16 weeks, leaving the puppy vulnerable if vaccines have not been administered for further protection.

A recovered dog may shed virus up to 2 to 3 months. It is important to keep this in mind

when taking a recovered pet anywhere where there are other dogs. The most intense viral shedding occurs in the first 2 weeks of infection.Confirming the Distemper Infection

It is almost impossible to confirm a distemper diagno-sis. Because of this, distem-per is a clinical diagnosis, which means that rather than confirming infection with a test that is negative or posi-tive, the veterinarian must look at the whole picture: what symptoms are there, is the history typical, etc.

The virus itself remains elusive so that positive test results are meaningful in confirming the infection, but negative results do not rule it out.

Treatment for DistemperRecovery from distemper

is all about immunity and the

only real treatment is sup-portive care while the patient mounts an immune response. Distemper is extremely vari-able in its ability to produce symptoms and recovery oc-curs at any stage. Neurologic distemper is particularly dif-ficult to treat. Still, it is pos-sible for dogs to recover with livable deficits even from neurodistemper; euthanasia is best left for progressive, incapacitating neurologic symptoms.Preventing Infection

Preventing the disease is simple and inexpensive. Ef-fective distemper vaccination has been available since the 1950s. The “distemper shot” is the basic immunization for dogs.

It is generally combined with vaccine for canine par-vovirus as well for parain-fluenza, adenovirus 2, lep-tospirosis, and sometimes coronavirus. Puppies are vaccinated beginning at age 6 to 8 weeks, and then every 2 to 4 weeks thereafter until age 16 weeks. The next vac-

cine is one year later. After that subsequent vaccination boosters are given every 1 to 3 years. Humans can get in-fected with the virus, mean-ing the virus seems able to replicate in the human body, but no illness results. It does not appear that there is any human hazard in the canine distemper virus.

For further questions or to schedule an appointment, please call the Fort Buchanan Veterinary Clinic at 787-707-2038.

DISTEMPER, From Page 13

Classifieds

Advertise with us for free. If you are a current, or retired, service member or disabled veteran who wishes to adver-tise your home, car or the an-nouncement of a yard sale feel free to contact Luis Delgadillo, the editor of El Morro.

HomesAdvertise with us for free. If you are a current, or retired, service member or disabled veteran who wishes to adver-tise your home, car or the an-nouncement of a yard sale feel free to contact Luis Delgadillo, the editor of El Morro.

AutosAdvertise with us for free. If you are a current, or retired, service member or disabled veteran who wishes to adver-tise your home, car or the an-nouncement of a yard sale feel free to contact Luis Delgadillo, the editor of El Morro.

Yard sale


HomesAdvertise with us for free. If you are a current, or retired, service member or disabled veteran who wishes to adver-tise your home, car or the an-nouncement of a yard sale feel free to contact Luis Delgadillo, the editor of El Morro.

AutosAdvertise with us for free. If you are a current, or retired, service member or disabled veteran who wishes to adver-tise your home, car or the an-nouncement of a yard sale feel free to contact Luis Delgadillo, the editor of El Morro.

Yard sale

Ever feel like there was something missing from the El Morro?

Like perhaps your unit?

El Morro is the Fort Buchanan community newspa-per and the editorial board wants to include military

units from Fort Buchanan in its pages.

If you’re tenant unit would like stories or stand alone photos published in the El Morro contact the editor,

Luis Delgadillo at: (787)707-5762 or by e-mail at [email protected]

If you are military retiree or service member wishing to announce a garage sale or place a classified ad,

beginning in January, El Morro will launch a classifieds section. Call today for space and details.

Open to all Active and Retired Military Personnel, National Guard, Coast Guard, FBI, Fort Buchanan Security Personnel, Reservists, and DoD civilians.

Appointment times are avail-able, but walk-ins are welcome

Please call 787-707-2038 with questions or to schedule an ap-

pointment.

Veterinary Clinic now open during lunch for

retail purchases, appointment

scheduling from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Normal Business Hours

Mon. 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.Tues. 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Wed. 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.Thurs. 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Fort Buchanan Veterinary

Treatment Facility Vaccination Clinic


Homes


Autos


Yard sale

To advertise call 787-707-5762


Around The Post 19El Morro Fort Buchanan January 2012

Col. John D. Cush-man (left), Santiago Santiago, retirement services officer (third from left) and Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson (right) recognize the contributions of (from left) Jim Shouse, Carlos Rivera, Patricia Orr, and Raul Rodríguez for their contribu-tions to the Veteran’s Day celebration.

The Rodriguez Army Health Clinic’s, Yajaira Rosado, a medical operations liaison, led the way in getting gift boxes to 22 girls, ages 11-15, of the Hogar Escuela Sor María Rafaela, a local nonprofit orphanage for girls located in Bayamón.

The Rodriguez Army Health Clinic’s, Mali Rivera, a health benefits advisor, Yajaira Rosado, a medical operations liaison, Cpl. Ortiz and Laurie Colón, a nurse’s assistant all pitched in with raising money and wrapping gifts for 22 girls of the Hogar Escuela Sor María Rafaela in Bayamón.

Going the extra mile for veterans

Col. John D. Cushman, and Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson present Sonia Betancourt with a participa-tion award for her and the Antilles High School Choir, which regularly performs at installation functions.

Santiago Santiago, Col. John D. Cushman, and Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson (right) recognize the contributions of Joan Campbell, Antilles High School principal, for her support of the Veterans Day celebration.

Photos by Luis Delgadillo

Photos courtesy Miguel Aponte

Around The Post20 El Morro Fort BuchananJanuary 2012 The Sentinel of the Caribbean

Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Jackeline Fountain, a member of the Retiree Council, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (retired) Cristino Lozada-Cruz, and Brig. Gen. (retired) Félix E. Ocasio, chairman of the Fort Buchanan Retiree Council/San Juan Lions Club put the finishing touches on a planted tree.

Did you visit USAG Fort Buchanan today? Let us know how was your experience in our facilities? How was our service?

By Alicia NavedoEnvironmental Protection Contractor

Community groups team up with DPW for tree planting

It is very easy to provide feedback through: hardcopy comment card, your personal computers and now through your smartphones. Yes, now you can

provide us immediate feedback, through your smartphones:

1. Go to an iphone or Android apps store2. Download any barcode scanning application3. Scan the barcode on the office poster

When filling out the ICE comment, please make sure you answer the satisfac-tion question (“Were you satisfied with your experience at this office/facility?”). The satisfaction percentage on the ICE report is based on the number of “yes”

responses to the satisfaction question. The Overall Satisfaction question is designed to rate the customer total experience and the results are used to determine the satisfaction percentage for that particular service. If the cus-

tomer does not respond to the satisfaction question, the submission will not be included in the satisfaction percentage that is rolled up in reports.

With your feedback, our services always improve. ICE makes it better!

The San Juan Lions Club and the Fort Buchanan Retiree Council joined the Directorate of Public Works employees Alicia Navedo, a environmental special-ist from the Environmental Division and Julio Mundo, from the Operations and Maintenance Division for a reforestation activity Dec. 14.

The members of the community groups planted 28 species of native tree on the hill behind the Water Spout. This reforestation activity served as a mitiga-tion measure for future removal of trees due to the construction of the new DPW building and other future projects. Ac-cording to the Fort Buchanan Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan and the Ecological Management Plan, Fort Buchanan must select areas for riparian enhancement. The DPW Environmental Conservation Manager is currently orga-nizing a future event with the mentioned groups for the Puerto Nuevo Reserve Center during the month of January, date TBA.

Those in attendance included: Brig. Gen. (retired) Félix E. Ocasio, Chair-man of the Fort Buchanan Retiree Coun-cil/San Juan Lions Club, Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Pedro Figueroa Co-Chair-man of Retiree Council, CSM (retired) Jackeline Fountain Member of Retiree Council, Master Sgt.(retired) Héctor Mu-ñoz, Member of Retiree Council/Member

Members of the Fort Buchanan Retiree Council, members of Vietnam Veterans of America, mem-bers of the San Juan Lions Club, Volunteers from the Monumento al Veterano of San Lorenzo, and employees from the Directorate of Public Works pose for a photo Dec. 14 during their reforesta-tion activity.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 (retired) Cristino Lozada-Cruz, recorder of the Retiree Council/vice president of the San Lorenzo Lions Club, President of the Monumento al Veterano of San Lorenzo, breaks ground for saplings to be planted on the hill behind Fort Buchanan’s Water Spout Dec. 14.

Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Jackeline Fountain, Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Ediberto Lopez, President of San Juan Lions Club, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (retired) Cristino Lozada-Cruz, Brig. Gen. (retired) Félix E. Ocasio, chairman of the Fort Buchanan Retiree Council/San Juan Lions Club put the finishing touches on a planted tree.

of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (retired) Cristino Lo-zada Cruz, Recorder of Retiree Council/Vice President of San Lorenzo Lions Club, President of Monumento al Veter-ano of San Lorenzo, Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Ediberto Lopez President of San Juan Lions Club, Oscar Cintron, Vice President of San Juan Lions Club, Ra-mon Rivera Rivera, Member of San Juan Lions Club, and Maj. (USAR retired) Rafael Perez, Volunteer, Monumento al Veterano of San Lorenzo.

Photos courtesy of the Directorate of Public Works

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