Pentagram 073114

Published for Joint Base Myer-Henderson HallVol. 61, no. 30 July 31, 2014

PentagramBy Guv Callahan

Pentagram Staff Writer

More than 400 volunteers gath-ered in the morning sun at ArlingtonNational Cemetery July 28 for a dayof service by professionals from acrossthe landscape and lawn care industryto give back to their nation.Going into its 18th year, the

Professional Landscape Network’s(PLANET) annual Renewal andRemembrance program draws volun-teers from roughly 100 landscapingcompanies and 30 different states tovolunteer to preserve the cemetery.The volunteers spent the day apply-ing nearly 80 tons of lime to enrichthe cemetery’s soil to keep the grasshealthy and green. They also aerated45 acres of turf, and provided careand maintenance to seven of the cem-etery’s trees.“For 150 years now, Arlington

National Cemetery has been a specialplace for Americans and thankfulpeople all over the world to comeand remember the service, sacrificeand especially the ultimate sacri-fice of so many American heroes,”said Arlington National CemeterySuperintendent Jack Lechner Jr.,during a brief opening ceremony. “Oneof the things that goes on here on adaily basis is the care and preserva-tion of the property.”Lightning protection was installed

in five other trees near the newly

renamed James R. Tanner amphithe-atre. Metal conductors attached tocopper wire ran from the tree topsinto the ground so that a potentiallightning strike would be neutralizedby the ground instead of destroyingthe tree.PLANETPresidentJimMcCutcheon

characterized the volunteers’ decisionto travel – some hundreds of miles – toArlington to participate in the projectas a “simple decision,” a selfless actto help preserve a national landmarkand honor military servicemembers.“The men and women who serve in

our military also make those simpledecisions – the exact same ones wemake every day,” McCutcheon said.“They also made the decision thatthey were going to serve this country,and in many cases dedicate their livesto that service. Those simple deci-sions lead to many great things for us.That’s who we’re here to honor today.”Dozens of military veterans were

among the volunteers.Tom Warfel, a Marine veteran

who served from 2001 to 2005 andserved two tours in Iraq, flew into theNational Capital Region with his wifeover the weekend and then spent theday spreading lime.“For me, being a veteran and my

company giving me the opportuni-ty to come out here is just a plea-sure,” Warfel said as he pushed a cartthrough the grass of the cemetery’s

Check online for the latestJBM-HH WBGT updates at www.army.mil/ar ticle/129507. Thiswebpage provides current WBGTconditions on base, associated flagcolor status and work restrictions,

as well as safety tips to preventheat stroke and other conditionsassociated with warmer weather.The WBGT will be only updated in

the event of a “red” or “black” flagWBGT reading.

Spotlight p.2Community p.3Civilian wellness p.3Around DoD p.4

News Notes p.5New DoD leaders p.5Commentary p.6Thrift savings p.8

Index JBM-HH Wet Bulb Globe Temperatureupdates available online

see LAWN CARE, page 4

Volunteers, vets help keep ANC beautiful

By Julia LeDouxPentagram Staff Writer

Demolition of Bldg. 406 onthe Fort Myer portion of JointBase Myer-Henderson Hall isunderway and on schedule,according to officials.“We’re about 25 to 30 percent

right now,” Ramon Nieves,Directorate of Public Worksproject management branchchief, said as he looked overthe site July 25. “We’re gettingthere.”The building had four wings

and was H-shaped prior todemolition, he said. Rubblefrom what had been the south-east section of the building ison the ground behind a chainlink security fence.The southwest portion of

the building is scheduled to bethe next section to come down,said Nieves.“The center corridor will

stay there for utilities andsupport of the people doingthe demolition,” he added.The demolition of the

179,444 square foot, four-sto-

ry former barracks began thethird week of March and isexpected to be completed bythe end of September. Locatedon McNair Road betweenSpates Community Club andthe Bowling Center, the build-ing once housed Soldiers andemergency and recovery teamsafter the Sept. 11, 2001 attackon the Pentagon. The 50-year-old structure has been vacantsince 2011. The last groupsto use it included a security

Compiled by Guv CallahanPentagram Staff Writer

1. Obama, Hagel ask for cooperation inUkraine, MH17 investigationBoth President Barack Obama and Defense

Secretary Chuck Hagel have been vocal inpushing for cooperation between nations afterMalaysia Airlines Flight 17 was allegedly shotdown by pro-Russian separatists over Ukraine’sDonetsk province July 17. Obama and membersof the international community have expressedoutrage over the tragedy, which caused thedeaths of 298 people, including one Americancitizen. Obama announced new economic sanc-

Around DoD: 10 thingsto know for August

see 10 THINGS, page 4

News Notes

Grant Hall open house Aug. 2Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall announces a

public open house of Grant Hall’s historic third-floor courtroom, located on the FortMcNair portionof the joint base in southwest Washington, D.C.,from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Aug. 2. The courtroom isthe site of the military tribunal, held from Maythrough June 1865, of those thought responsiblefor plotting to assassinate President AbrahamLincoln. Members of the public are invited to theopen house, which is free to attend. Please beadvised, however, that the third floor courtroom isonly accessible by walking up two flights of stairs.Due to the historical nature of the structure, thebuilding has no elevator. For more information,visit http://www.army.mil/article/124261/.

Flea market cancelledThe flea market scheduled for Aug. 2 has been

cancelled due to a lack of vendors. The next fleamarkets are scheduled for Sept. 6 and Oct. 4. Costis $10 per table. For more information call 703-696-3470.

Back to school savings at FortMyer Exchange

The Fort Myer Exchange is helping militaryshoppers make the grade with competitive pricesand tax savings on supplies students need to headback to class as well as special events and savingsopportunities for the whole family. As Virginiarolls out sales tax holidays on school suppliesthe Fort Myer Exchange will match local salestax discounts to offer an additional 6 percent offselect back to school items, effectively doubling theExchange’s everyday tax-free benefit. Virginia’ssales tax holiday runs fromAug. 1-3. Eligible itemsinclude clothing, backpacks and school supplies up

see DEMO, page 4 see NEWS NOTES, page 4

When the walls come tumblin’ down

PHOTO BY SGT. RUPERT FRERE

A British Soldier holds a Black Hornet Nano UnmannedAir Vehicle in Afghanistan. The U.S. Army is currentlyresearching similar technology provide Soldiers asmall, easy-to-use technology that enables them toobserve everything from individual rooms in buildingsto entire villages during combat missions.

PHOTO BY RACHEL LARUE

Tyler Pollock, top, and Jesse Tillack, from The Care of Trees, volun-teer their time during Professional Landcare Network’s Renewal andRemembrance volunteer event in Arlington National Cemetery July 28.Pollock and Tillack installed lightning protection in the tree.

2 Thursday, July 31, 2014 PENTAGRAM

The Pentagram is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents ofthe Pentagram are not necessarily the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense,the Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, or Joint BaseMyer-Henderson Hall.

The content of this publication is the responsibility of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall PublicAffairs Office. Pictures not otherwise credited are U.S. Army photographs. News items should besubmitted to the Pentagram, 204 Lee Ave., Bldg. 59, Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199. They may also bee-mailed to [email protected].

Circulation of 24,000 is printed by offset every Friday as a civilian enterprise newspaper by ComprintMilitary Publications. ComprintMilitary Publications is located at 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg,MD20877. Telephone (301) 921-2800. Commercial advertising should be placedwith the printer.

Comprint Military Publications is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of theArmy or Department of the Navy.

The appearance of advertisements in this publication, to include all inserts and supplements,does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Department of the Navy ofthe products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made avail-able for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age,marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser,user or patron. A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser shall resultin the refusal to print advertising from that source.

Printed on recycled paper

http://www.army.mil/jbmhh

Editorial staff

Commander Col. Fern O. Sumpter

Command Sergeant Major Earlene Y. Lavender

Director of Public Affairs Mary Ann Hodges

Command Information Officer Sharon Walker

Pentagram staff

Editor Jim Goodwin (703) 696-5401

Staff Writer Damien Salas (703) 696-1363

Staff Writer Julia LeDoux (703) 696-7605

Staff Writer Jim Dresbach (703) 696-5488

Staff Writer Guv Callahan (703) 696-7607

Staff Photographer Rachel Larue (703) 696-7606

Pentagram

Caption This #28Each week, “Caption This” will feature a photo taken on base. It’s up to youto figure out the best, funniest or craziest caption that describes what’s go-ing on in the picture. The only rule is you have to KEEP IT CLEAN!“Caption This” submissions can be sent to [email protected],by commenting at www.facebook.com/jbmhh or just stopping by Headquar-ters Bldg. 59, suite 116 and dropping it off. Don’t forget to add the “CaptionThis” number, your name, rank or position and where you work.The winner’s name, caption along with the photo, will be printed in thenewspaper. Compete with your friends and coworkers and see who cancome up with the best one. And if you have a photo you think would make agreat “Caption This,” send it in.

Caption This

Caption This#27

“Dunk you for your opinion.”

- Anthony Geiger


Commander, Joint Base Myer-Henderson HallCol. Fern O. Sumpter’s vision and philosophy:

With a team of resource management savvy and technically competentDoD professionals, establish JBM–HH as DoD’s premier provider of consis-tent, quality services that enhance readiness and the overall well-being ofour customers.We must be ...- Experts at what we do … constantly improving our skills and knowledge.- Focused … set priorities and complete the mission.- Committed … to the mission and each other, fostering a community of

excellence.- Professional/respectful … remain calm, even when others are not…

count on each other at all times, treating everyone with dignityand respect.

• Name (rank): Odin Torres.• Job title/where do youwork: JBM-HH

Sexual Harassment/Assault Responseand Prevention Victim Advocate.

• Military service: Ten years Army priorservice.

• Favorite sports team: PittsburghSteelers.

• Favorite book: The Giver.• Favorite food: Cuban style shredded

beef.• Favorite movie: Remember the Titans.• Favorite place you’ve ever traveledto or been stationed: Ireland.

• What do you like most about working on/visiting JBM-HH? Becoming acquainted with the base is quite simple.

• What are your goals for the year?My goals are to continuemy educational endeavors and to visit more attractions withinthe National Capital Region.

• What’s your favorite attraction to see in the NCR?Theodore Roosevelt Island.

• What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? We’re onlyhere for a short time so always follow the 3 L’s: Live, love andlaugh.

• What advice do you have for someone getting stationedat JBM-HH? Take the time to visit local attractions and meetpeople on and off base.

Community Spotlight


Forever stampsThe official party unveils new limited-edition Forever Stamps recognizing Medal of Honor recipients from the Korean War during a first-day-of-issue stamp dedicationceremony in Arlington National Cemetery July 26. Among the official party was Ahn Ho-Young, fourth left, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the United Statesof America; Patrick R. Donahoe, third right, postmaster general and CEO U.S. Postal Service; and retired U.S. Navy Capt. Thomas J. Hudner Jr., Korean War Medal ofHonor recipient.

PENTAGRAM Thursday, July 31, 2014 3Community

By Damien SalasPentagram Staff Writer

In an effort to improve the overallhealth of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall community, a walk-through of the commissary July 21offered consumers a detailed layoutof each food section and its nutri-tional significance.“You want to circle around the

perimeter of the commissary,” saidBeth Triner, dietician at AndrewRader Health Clinic, while a smallgroup of Soldiers and civilians fol-lowed along. “That is where you willfind ‘food;’ in the aisles is where ‘foodproducts’ are.”The difference in name is small,

but the gap between nutritionalvalues of processed items located inthe aisles as opposed to the produce

section is great and should not gounnoticed, according to Triner.“We are looking at foods today that

are at the peak of their nutritionalvalue,” said Triner. “Fruits, vegeta-bles and raw meats provide us withthe most nutrients the less time theyhave spent in the store.”The walkthrough served as an

emphasis on nutrition for thePerformance Triad Initiative but allmembers of the community wereinvited to learn.The Performance Triad is the

Army’s comprehensive plan toimprove readiness and increaseresilience through public health ini-tiatives and leadership engagement.In a rainbow of produce, Triner

and other health and food experts

Commissary brief reveals nutritious options

By Damien SalasPentagram Staff Writer

The Civilian Wellness program providesfederal civilian employees with an incentiveto participate in physical activity duringwork hours.“The program has always been out

there,” said Human resources Director, KenWashington. “2011 is when we really got itgoing here on Joint Base Myer-HendersonHall.”When the program became policy some

three years ago, it focused only on physicalfitness, but has since added mental, nutri-tional and medical health to the services pro-vided, according to Washington.The program is a contract between an

employee and their supervisor for the employ-ee to take one hour, three days a week, for sixmonths to participate in some form of physi-cal activity here on the installation.Instead of working eight hours those days,

the employee only works seven, Washingtonsaid.

Washington also said the program is meantto encourage employees to evaluate theircurrent fitness condition and improve theiroverall aspirations to live healthy lifestyles.Despite the program lasting only six months,employees are encouraged to continue beingphysically active after they have completed it.To get started, employees must fill out a

personal readiness assessment.“This is the most important part,” said

Washington. “If the employee has any history,for example, of fainting during physical exer-cise, we require them to get approval fromtheir healthcare provider.”After approval is given, employees must

sign a waiver, releasing JBM-HH of anyliability in the event of personal injury whileparticipating in the program.The program allows JBM-HH employees

to utilize the fitness center, basketball andtennis courts and health classes provided byRader Clinic in order to live a healthier life-style, and is involved with the PerformanceTriad health initiative, which encompasses

Civilian Wellness program aims to boostmorale, promote healthy lifestyle choices


Participants in the Cherry Blossom “Along the River” 2.5k runand 1-mile walk go past National Defense University’s GeorgeC. Marshall Hall on the Fort McNair portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall April 4. The Civilian Wellness program allowsfederal civilian employees at JBM-HH to exercise for one hour,three times weekly during regular work hours.see WELLNESS, page 6

PHOTO BY DAMIEN SALAS

Beth Triner (left, center), dietician at Rader Health Clinic, reviews healthy foodchoices available to JBM-HH commissary patrons July 21.see COMMISSARY, page 7

By Staff Sgt. Jennifer C. JohnsonJFHQ-NCR/MDW Public Affairs

Seven members from the U.S. Army Military District of Washington par-ticipated in the second annual Spartan Race at Wicomico Motorsports Parkin Charlotte Hall, Md., July 26.The race was a four-mile sprint with more than 15 obstacles that tested

participants’ athletic skills, as well as their ability to work as a team inorder to move from one obstacle to another.“I thought this would be a fun event to do again with the command,” said

Command Sgt. Maj. David O. Turnbull, MDW command sergeant majorand team captain. “It was a great work out and I think the obstacles are agreat way to help build esprit-de-corps with the Soldiers and civilians thatparticipated.”“This race was a great tool for teaching team building and trust,” said

Sgt. William C. Chappell, MDW command movement coordinator. “Itteaches you to trust your teammates and tests your own abilities as a physi-cally fit Soldier.”Participants had to climb, crawl, run and negotiate a series of obstacles,

including scaling a nine-foot wall, low crawling through a barbed wire mud

Weekend fun; Soldier style

PHOTO BY STAFF SGT. JENNIFER JOHNSON

Maj. Luke A. Lisell, U.S. Army Military District of Washington Public Affairs executiveofficer, climbs a net rope during the four-mile Spartan sprint event held at WicomicoMotorsports Park in Charlotte Hall, Md., July 26.

see SPARTAN, page 6


to $100. OnAug. 9, the Fort Myer Exchange will hosta special back to school event in its mall as part ofthe yearlong Homeward Bound campaign.The eventwill include product samples, giveaways and more.

Temporary parking stall lossAs part of the repair project in Bldg. 219 on the

Fort Myer portion of the joint base, there will be atemporary loss of eight parking stalls along ForrestCircle from Aug. 1-12. The parking stalls will befenced off to allow construction to occur at the southentrance of the building. For more information, call703-696-1204.

Temporary parking restrictions Aug. 2-3 onFort McNair

Parking will be temporarily restricted on the FortMcNair portion of the joint base beginning at 10p.m., Aug. 2 and continue through Aug. 3.The following roads and parking lot are restricted:• Officer’s Club lower parking lot• 2nd Avenue from C Street to D Street• D street• 4th Avenue from B Street to D StreetAll vehicles that not are moved by 10 p.m., Aug. 3

will be towed at the owner’s expense. For more infor-mation, call Emergency Services at 202-685-3139 onthe Fort McNair portion of the joint base.

Redskins ticketsThe Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Community

CenterTicketOfficehasWashingtonRedskins ticketsfor sale to active duty personnel only beginning Aug.2 at 8 a.m.Tickets are sold in pairs only. Cost is $260per pair. Seats are located in section 129, lower levelend zone.Tickets will only be sold in person. StartingAug. 8, tickets will be available to all authorized per-sonnel starting at 11 a.m. Preseason tickets to theCleveland Browns vs Washington Redskins gameon Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. are also available. The seats arelocated in section 129 lower level end zone and willbe sold only in pairs. Cost per pair is $260. You maycome in person or purchase them over the phone bycalling 703-696-3470.

Feds Feed FamiliesJointBaseMyer-HendersonHallpersonnelsupport

the Agriculture Department’s annual Feds FeedFamiliesfooddrive.Thecampaign,whichrunsthroughAugust, is a voluntary effort undertaken by federalemployees,whobringnonperishablefooditemstotheiroffices for distribution to local food banks. Bringyour donations to several places on the FortMyer portion of the joint base: The FitnessCenter, the Exchange, Bldg. 203, Bldg. 205and Bldg. 59. On the Fort McNair portionof the joint base, bring non-perishable fooditems to Bldg. 39, the Shoppette, the StateDepartment Federal Credit Union, MarshallHall (Bldg. 62) and Lincoln Hall (Bldg. 64). Ifyou wish to add a collection point in your build-ing, send an email to [email protected] or [email protected] call 703-696-8333. Among the items onthe most-needed list are low-sodium or no saltcanned vegetables, canned proteins (tuna, salmon,chicken, beans), canned fruits and soups, condiments,multi grain cereals, individually packaged snacksand crackers, peanut butter, brown and white riceand pasta.Families also need 100 percent fruit juices,paper products, cleaning supplies andhygiene items -allthethingsanyfamilyneeds.Foracompletelist,visitwww.capitalareafoodbank.org. In 2013,DoD collectedover 1.9 million pounds of food. For more informationvisit www.defense.gov/home/features/2012/0612_fff.

ACAP workshop and seminar scheduleThe JBM-HH Army Career and Alumni Program

has updated its seminar and workshop schedulefor the month of August. To find out more informa-tion about transitioning assistance courses, highereducation opportunities and career resource work-shops, log onto www.jbmhh.army.mil/WEB/JBMHH/Services/ArmyCareerAlumni.html.

Warrior at easeWarrior at ease: Balancing warrior intensity with

holistic stressmanagement is heldAug. 4 from 9 a.m.to noon in Bldg. 21 on the Henderson Hall portion ofthe joint base.The topic of the class is stress manage-ment, including creating a stress management plan.There will also be an informative discussion aboutthe relationship between nutrition and stress, aswell as a review of gentle, restorative yoga practices.Call 703-693-9146 for more information.

Boots to BusinessAboots to business workshop for aspiringmilitary-

to-civilian entrepreneurs is offered Aug. 11 and 12from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Bldg. 29, room 104, onthe Henderson Hall portion of the joint base. Thisworkshop provides information on self-employment;learning to evaluate applicable skills and personalitytraits needed for self-employment; identifying typesof business ownership; researching the businessmarket and competition; understanding the impor-tance of a business plan; and how to obtain financing.Call 703-614-6826 to register.

Barrier preventive maintenanceFromAug. 5 to 7, workers will be on the joint base

for barrier preventive maintenance. The schedule

News NotesNews Notes, from page 1

see NEWS NOTES, page 5

section 11. “These guys gave theultimate sacrifice and it’s phenom-enal to be able to be a part of thishere and treat these areas.”Pete Kehoe, an Army veteran who

completed a tour in Iraq fromMarch2005 to March 2006, was also grate-ful for the opportunity.Kehoe lives in Newtown, Conn.,

and runs the maintenance divisionof a landscape firm near there.“Being a military veteran and

serving with a lot of guys, it’s a waya fellow can give back to the com-munity,” he said of Renewal andRemembrance.Kehoe said that volunteer work

was just one of the many ways awar veteran can adjust to normallife after they return home fromdeployment.“It helps with the healing process

a lot,” he said.


People work between headstones in Arlington National Cemetery July28. More than 400 adults and 40 children participated in ProfessionalLandcare Network’s Renewal and Remembrance volunteer event, anannual initiative to help beautify the cemetery by landscape and lawncare industry professionals from across the U.S.

Lawn care, from page 1

tions against Russia by theU.S. and the European Union.Hagel has spoken to Ukraine’snew defense minister, ValeriyHaletey, and asked that theycontinue to develop a “bilateralrelationship.”2. Senate confirms new VA

secretary, Army vice chief ofstaffThe U.S. Senate confirmed

formerProcter andGambleCEORobert McDonald as the newDepartment of Veterans Affairssecretary July 29. Meanwhile,Gen. Daniel B. Allyn was con-firmed by the U.S. Senate asthe next vice chief of staff of theU.S. Army. Both will assumetheir responsibilities in theirnew roles next month. For otherSenate-confirmed Departmentof Defense appointments, seethe related article on page 5.3. SecDef lauds decision

against “unlawful” financialpredatory practicesSecretary of Defense Chuck

Hagel announced that he wel-comes the July 29 announce-ment by the ConsumerFinancial Protection Bureauto reimburse some $92 millionto servicemembers and otherconsumers in debt relief fromRome Finance. Hagel’s state-ment, published online on www.defense.gov, criticized RomeFinance, stating that no service-member should ever fall victimto “unlawful, predatory lendingschemes specifically targeted toactive duty military personnel.”4. DoD assists in embassy

evacuationThe U.S. military assisted

in the evacuation and move-ment of personnel from the U.S.embassy in Tripoli, Libya, toTunisia, according to a July 26Department of Defense newsarticle. Embassy personnel,including the Marine SecurityGuards responsible for provid-ing security at the embassy,were driven to Tunisia withoutincident. The operation lastedapproximately five hours. Therelocation came amid a U.S.Department of State request forDoD assistance.

5. Fighting a virusThe U.S. Army Public Health

Command announced that amosquito-borne virus calledchikungunya, which is becom-ing more common in the U.S.,is likely to appear in locationswhere Soldiers, Army civiliansand their families work andlive, according to a July 29 newsarticle on army.mil. Virus symp-toms include headache, musclepain, joint swelling and rash.Army officials warn that thebest counter measure to infec-tion is by preventing mosquitobites: servicemembers shoulduse permethrin or an individualdynamic absorption kit to treatuniforms. Officials also recom-mended the wearing of loose,colorful clothing to deter mos-quitos.6. Former paratrooper

awarded Medal of HonorRetired Army Staff Sgt. Ryan

M. Pitts became the ninth livingservicemember to receive theMedal of Honor, the nation’shighest award for combat valor,during a ceremony July 21.Pitts was recognized for sin-gle-handedly blocking enemyaccess to the bodies of hisfallen comrades during a battleto defend an observation postnear the village of Wanat inAfghanistan’s Kunar province.7. 2,500 mile journey for

post-traumatic stress aware-nessFormer Marine Cpl. Joshua

Ploetz, a combat veteran,paddled some 2,575 miles alongthe Mississippi River in aneffort to raise awareness forpost-traumatic stress, accord-ing to a July 28 Marine Corpsnews article. Ploetz began thejourney May 19 and finishedJuly 25, with “tears in his eyes,”according to the article.Ploetz said he is not done

raising awareness for veter-ans, pledging to run the MarineCorps marathon, according toCpl. Christopher J. Cox, whowatched Ploetz finish his water-borne journey.8. Pocket-sized unmanned

aerial surveillanceThe U.S. Army’s Natick

Soldier Research, Developmentand Engineering Center isdeveloping a “pocket-sized,aerial surveillance device” toprovide Soldiers a small, easy-to-use technology that enablesthem to observe everythingfrom individual rooms in build-ings to entire villages duringcombat missions, according toarmy.mil.The technology consists of a

“palm-sized miniature” helicop-ter that weighs 16 grams andis controlled remotely by GPSnavigation. The device will beable to fly for up to 20 minutesand provide real-time video tooperators.9. New TRICARE hotline

offers 24/7 healthcare guid-anceLaunched in April,

TRICARE’s Nurse Advice Lineoffers TRICARE beneficiariesin the U.S., Hawaii and Alaska24/7 access to a team of regis-tered nurses.The hotline, which can

be reached by dialing 1-800-TRICARE, allows beneficiariesto ask questions about a “varietyof acute health care concerns,”according to an Air Force NewsService article. Nurses willassist beneficiaries in decidingwhether to seek medical assis-tance, or provide self-care.10.Marine Corps approves

special operations officerMOSCommandant of the Marine

Corps Gen. James F. Amosrecently approved creation ofa new primary military occu-pational specialty (MOS) forMarine officers who completethe U.S. Marine Corps ForcesSpecial Operations Command’sIndividual Training Course.Thenew MOS – special operationsofficer – allows officers to servecontinuously in that MOS.Previously, only enlisted

Marines could retain a specialoperationsMOS as critical skillsoperators. The move allows theCorps to train, develop, andretain Marine officers as specialoperations officers for the dura-tion of their careers.

10 Things, from page 1

guard contractor and thejoint base tax center.Bldg. 406 was the second

largest building on thejoint base, and the largeston Fort Myer.The site will become a

five acre grassy area andevery effort is being madeto save the older, largertrees already there, saidofficials.Nieves said people are

welcome to come by andtake a look at the siteas the demolition work isbeing done, but stressedthat rules posted on signsthat hang on the fencemust be obeyed not onlyfor the public’s safetybut also for the safety ofworkers.“It’s a controlled con-

structionsiteandtheOSHA[Occupational Safety andHealth Administration]rules have to be compliedwith,” he said.


Bldg. 406 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, rightoff McNair Road, is in the process of being demolished, July 27. There are noimmediate plans to build a new structure.

Demo, from page 1

PENTAGRAM Thursday, July 31, 2014 5

for barrier preventive maintenance. The schedule below is fluid based on thefindings at each gate. Any traffic interference will be minimal.Aug. 5: Henry Gate (morning) on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base;

Henderson Hall portion of the joint base (afternoon).Aug. 6:Wright Gate (morning); Hatfield Gate (afternoon), Fort Myer portion

of the joint base.Aug. 7: Ceremonial Gate (morning); 2nd Street Gate (afternoon), Fort McNair

portion of the base.For more information, call 703-588-2810.

National Purple Heart Day ceremony at Mount VernonThe Military Order of the Purple Heart invites all recipients of the Purple

Heart medal to celebrate the establishment of America’s oldest military award,the Purple Heart, Aug. 7 at the Robert H. and Clarice Smith Auditorium inMount Vernon, Va. The ceremony begins at 1 p.m. Also, a wreath laying cere-mony will be conducted at the Purple Heart Memorial. Recipients of the PurpleHeart and their guests are invited to a reception in the Mount Vernon Inn. Formore information and to RSVP for the reception, contact Dr. Gordon Sumner [email protected].

Splish, splash summer funParents and children (up to age 5) are welcome to join in a morning of

aquatic fun Aug. 8 from 10 to noon at Virginia Highlands Park, 1600 S. HayesSt., Arlington, Va. The group will meet at the spray ground, by the rest rooms,weather permitting. Rain date is Aug. 22. For more information or to register,call 703-696-3512.

Final dive-in movie night of the summerJBM-HH Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s final dive-in movie night

for the summer will be Aug. 9 at the Fort Myer Officers Club pools. Join us forthe final showing of the 2014 summer season with the showing of “DespicableMe 2,” rated PG. Gates open at 8:15 p.m. and show time is 9 p.m. Admission isfree, but audience members must provide their own flotation devices, loungerafts or inner tubes only. In the event of severe weather and/or high winds, theshowing will be cancelled. For further information, call 703-939-1045.

DMV to Go on JBM-HH Aug. 13The JBM-HH Army Career and Alumni Program is sponsoring the DMV to

Go mobile unit Aug. 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot across from thebowling center on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base. The service is opento all ID/CAC holders, to include active duty, family members, veterans with aDD214 and DoD civilians. No appointment is needed. For more information,call 703-696-9603.

Job fair slated for Aug. 13A job fair, open to all transitioning military veterans and military family

members will be held Aug. 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Sheraton PentagonCity Hotel, 900 South Orme Street, Arlington,Va. Pre-register at www.civilian-jobs.com. For more information, call 678-819-4153.

VA claims assistanceThinking of filing a claimwith the Department of VeteransAffairs? A nation-

al service officer from American Veterans will be in Henderson Hall’s Bldg. 29career management center Aug. 14 and 28 by appointment only from 7:30 a.m.to 2 p.m. For assistance, bring your service medical records, private physician’srecords, DD Form 214, marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates andcopies of your dependent’s social security cards. The national service officerwill consult with you about the condition for which you are considering filing aclaim. To make an appointment, call 703-614-6828.

Women’s Equality Day 5k run/1 mile walkJBM-HH’s Equal Employment Opportunity Office will host a Women’s

Equality Day 5k run/1 mile walk Aug. 22 at 6:35 a.m. at the Fort Myer FitnessCenter. The run is free and open to all military personnel, civilian employees,

family members and retirees. To register, log onto http://conta.cc/1tiH8MM orregister the day of the race between 5:30 and 6:15 a.m. For more information,call 703-696-2964/8729.

MCX early closingThe Marine Corps Exchange and the VineyardWine and Spirits will close at

5 p.m. Aug. 18 for a private event.

Pentagram seeks to spotlight community membersThe Pentagram newspaper is seeking nominations of JBM-HH’s workers,

residents and students to feature in the “Community Spotlight” portion (page 2)of the Pentagram each week. Individuals can nominate themselves, or someoneelse. Those nominated must currently work, reside, or attend school at any ofJBM-HH’s posts or facilities (Fort Myer, Fort McNair, Henderson Hall), andeither submit a photograph or be willing to have one taken for publication.Please note that children under the age of 18 will require guardian/parentalpermission. Additionally, each nominee will be asked to answer and submita short form of questions to help introduce the individual to the Pentagram’sreadership. This is an especially great way to highlight new workers, excep-tional achievement, or unique personal stories. For more information or anyquestions, email the Pentagram staff at: [email protected].

News Note policy! Read in full:News Notes submissions must be less than 100 words, contain all per-

tinent details — to include the five “W’s” — as well as a point of contact,phone number and/or website for additional information. News Notesmust be submitted no later than noon,Wednesdays, for consideration forpublication in the following week’s Pentagram. For example, informa-tion submitted for publication in News Notes on Tuesday, Aug. 12, willbe published in the Pentagram Thursday, Aug. 21. Priority will be givento those announcements of events and deadlines occurring during thepublication week. Please send your news notes to the Pentagram at [email protected].

News NotesNews Notes, from page 4

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By DoD News, Defense Media Activity

Last week, the U.S. Senate confirmed President Barack Obama’s nomi-nees for four key military posts:• Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., to be commandant of the Marine Corps,

succeeding Gen. James F. Amos;• Army Gen. John F. Campbell, Army vice chief of staff, to be command-

er of the International Security Assistance Force and U.S. ForcesAfghanistan, succeeding Dunford;

• Navy Adm. Bill Gortney, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command,to be commander of U.S. Northern Command and North AmericanAerospace Defense Command, succeeding Army Gen. Charles H.Jacoby Jr.; and

• Army Lt. Gen. Joseph L. Votel, to receive his fourth star and serve ascommander of U.S. Special Operations Command, succeeding NavyAdm. William H. McRaven.

Senate confirms officersfor key military posts

PHOTO BY GLENN FAWCETT

U.S. Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. John F. Campbell, center, briefs the media onspecific impending cuts and realignments within the Army’s force structure duringa press conference in the Pentagon June 25, 2013. Campbell was confirmed lastweek by the U.S. Senate to become the next commander of the International SecurityAssistance Force and U.S. Forces Afghanistan.

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By Airman 1st ClassMadison Sylvester319th Air Base WingPublic Affairs

As a young child,you don’t think muchif someone doesn’tshow up when they’resupposed to becauseyou have better, moreimportant things toworry about; like bugsand dolls. They’re justanother shape flashingaround you in your ownlittle world.Occasionally, a child

will stop and ask aquestion about the sky,their toys or wheretheir parent is. Theanswer always seemsto be, “Oh honey, they’reright over there,” andlife goes on without ahitch.When I stopped

playing one night in1998 and asked thequestion, “Daddy, whenis Mommy cominghome?” it broughteveryone around to asudden halt. My fathercleared his throat andblinked a few times,obviously taken by sur-prise that his 3-year-oldwas asking this ques-tion so early. He repliedquietly, “Mommy isn’tcoming home sweetie.She’s living with theangels now.”My mother was killed

in a head-on collisionMarch 24, 1997, as aresult of drinking and

driving.That wasn’t the

beginning of her rela-tionship with alcohol;however, her decision todrive home after drink-ing this night was nother first time doing so.It was a regular thing.Consumption of alcohol,or rather the inabilityto stop consuming it,had ruined my parents’relationship. Already inthe process of divorce,they had been fight-ing that particular dayover my mother break-ing into my grandpar-ents’ liquor cabinet.The attempt to lie

was immediately wipedaway with the firstglance of her. So shedecided that she wouldleave, she tried to bringme along with her butmy father was able towrestle me away. Mydad wasn’t worried,he thought she wouldtake a walk down thestreet to calm down;he thought he had thekeys. Little did he know,she had a spare setmade. Almost runninghim over in his attemptto stop her, she sped off.My father got remar-

ried to a wonderfulwoman six monthslater and because Ididn’t understand, Ididn’t act like anythingwas wrong. It wasn’tuntil I was five yearsold that I really, fullyunderstood where my

mom had gone. Peoplehad stopped sugarcoat-ing things and tellingme that I was too youngto get it.Never wanting to

upset the woman I nowcalled Mom, I waiteduntil I had my fatheralone to ask again,“Daddy, what reallyhappened to mommy?”Judging from the lookon his face, he hadthought he had sometime before any realexplanations had to begiven. I quickly apolo-gized seeing the dis-tressed look and gotup to rush to anotherroom but he stoppedme and said, “No, it’sokay, I just didn’t thinkI would have to do thisso soon ... Your motherhad a problem.”A problem. That’s

what we hear todaywhen someone invitesalcohol into their livesfor too long. A problem.A mistake. What mymother had was notsimply a problem; mymother had a disease.One that nobody caredto diagnose becausethat would mean theirown failure. She wouldget sad and drink, shewould get mad anddrink, and soon she hadmade any emotion anexcuse to drink. I grewolder with conflictingimages of her.“She was a wonderful

mother; she loved you,

so full of life and laugh-ter,” collided with “Yourmother was a liar, acheater and a drunk.”Yes. I had a woman

who married my father,gave me a little sister,and took on the task oftaking care of me too.But there was alwaysa hole that couldn’tbe filled in me. I hadquestions that peoplefelt too guilty about toanswer. Did I do some-thing so wrong that sheneeded to drink again?If she really loved me,how could she be socareless? I was grievingyears after everyoneelse had moved on.However, I learned

to deal with my ownhurt and turned it intounderstanding and pro-activity. My mother wasnot the only person toever have alcoholism. Iwas not the only personever to lose someonethis way, nor wouldI be the last. I wouldnot allow myself to bea victim, but insteadbecame an advocate.The one thing that Itook away from my ownloss was that I neverwanted anyone else togo through the sameexperience. My familybrushed her addictionunder the rug becauseaddictions are ugly,they’re taboo, and deepdown inside they didn’twant to admit thattheir daughter, sisterand granddaughterwasn’t okay. But thetruth of the matter isthat she wasn’t andothers aren’t either.Iurgeyou tohelpyour

wingmen. If you noticethat their weekend funis turning into every-day fun, say something.If you suspect thatthey’re having hardtimes, say something.Even better than that,do something. Don’tlet them get in thatcar after they’ve beendrinking. We have somany resources thatcan help prevent theloss of another brotheror sister in arms. Mostpeople are not willingto look at their ownreflection and say “Ihave a problem. I needto stop.”Help them. Love

them. Support them.This disease is long-

standing in my lineage.I will be the one to endit. Will you do the samewith our [military]family.

educational tools on all facets of a healthy lifestyle.For those who work out regularly already, the program offers on-the-clock

time to continue to do so.“I already worked out, but the program kept me on track,” said Tamika

Wright, Executive Management and Housing Directorate. “If I couldn’tmake it in the mornings I would use the hour given for an afternoonworkout.”Still, the program is available to all employees, regardless of current

fitness levels. Those who do not work out regularly are encouraged to usethe program as an opportunity to add a “positive experience” to their workdays, according to Wright.“Just try it, even if it is just walking,” said Wright. “Once you get started,

the rest becomes easy.”The Performance Triad is an important part of the program’s success,

and combines the effort of many different parts of the JBM-HH community.“With Rader Clinic as our sister-partner in the Performance Triad

brief, we can provide more health information to the employees,” saidWashington.“We also discovered that it effects the morale when an employee sees

management give an hour of paid time to dedicate to exercise and theythink ‘well maybe they do care about my health’ so to me it is very seriousbusiness,” said Washington.For more information about the Civilian Wellness program or for a

copy of the enrollment form, contact your supervisor or call the HumanResources office at 703-696-5779.

Commentary: ‘Mommy isn’t coming home, sweetie’

PHOTO BY SENIOR AIRMAN XAVIER NAVARRO

Airman 1st Class Madison Sylvester, 319th Air BaseWing Public Affairs broadcast journalism, shares thestory of how her first scar became her reason for neverdriving while under the influence of alcohol.

Wellness, from page 3

pit, rope climbs, andfire pit jumps. Allseemed to test com-petitors’ agility andwillingness to worktogether.“It was a great

event to do as ateam,” said Turnbull.“I’m glad everyonehad a good time.That’s really whatit’s all about.”“This is my first

Spartan race, but Ithink everybody atthe command couldreally benefit fromthis event,” saidChappell. “The raceteaches participatescohesion and con-fidence, and it alsoteaches a person to adapt and overcome physical limits, forcing you to usethe resources around you. I had fun.”

Spartan, from page 3

PHOTO BY STAFF SGT. JENNIFER JOHNSON

Sgt. William C. Chappell, U.S. Army Military District ofWashington movement coordinator, low crawls througha barbed wire mud pit during the four-mile Spartan sprintevent held at Wicomico Motorsports Park in CharlotteHall, Md., July 26.

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discussed the benefits of different fruits and vegetables for diets, identify-ing the pros of each based on color.“Knowing which day’s fresh produce is delivered is one way to ensure you

are getting the most nutritional value out of your food,” said Triner.Maria Dudley, produce manager for the commissary, said knowing which

produce is in season ensures shoppers get the most out of their money.“Our prices usually change at the beginning of the week when fresh

produce comes in,” said Dudley. “The price can be lower or higher depend-ing on availability, but usually when a fruit or vegetable is in season, youcan buy it at a lower price because it is abundant.”“Variety in our food helps make healthy eating enjoyable,” said Triner.

“Knowing which produce has the longest shelf life is another way to makethe most out of your trip to the grocery store.”Private First Class Kimberly Williams, a participant in the walkthrough

understands the dangers of consuming too much sodium over a lifetime,and says her family’s medical history inspired her and her sister to addhealthy eating to their daily routines.“My sister is a personal trainer, and I am very active, but our fam-

ily’s history with high blood pressure and other health issues caused byunhealthy diet choices made us want to change the way we eat,” saidWilliams. “It isn’t just about working out, it’s about a lifestyle change.”Carol Wilkerson, primary care physician at Rader Health Clinic, works

with members of the JBM-HH community such as Wilson, and inviteseveryone to take part in the ongoing Performance Triad initiative.“We are open to all members of the community who want to learn about

making healthy lifestyle choices,” said Wilkerson. “We want people to beaware that there is a lot that goes in to a healthy lifestyle and we are hereto help facilitate that discussion.”

Commissary, from page 3

PHOTO BY CORY HANCOCK

Sgt. Maj. Alvin J. Chaplain (left), regimental sergeant major of the ChaplainCorps, and Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Donald L. Rutherford, U.S. Army chief of chap-lains, lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington NationalCemetery, July 25.

Honoring the chaplains

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Located at Pentagon Row1301 S. Joyce St Arlington, VA 22202

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ENJOYING THESE BANDSEVERY THURSDAY

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to Michael Jackson, starring Matt Macis8/21 Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi Tribute)

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PHOTO BY DAMIEN SALAS

Beth Triner (right), dietician at Rader Health Clinic, gives a detailed walk through ofnutritious food options available to JBM-HH commissary patrons July 21.


By Abigail ReidFederal Retirement Thrift Investment Board

You may be leaving the military, but that doesn’tmean you have to leave the Thrift Savings Plan.Here are a few reasons why you should continue touse TSP:The TSP offers low fees. Saving for retirement

is not free and some retirement plan fees can takea big bite out of your savings. The TSP has lowadministrative fees so contributors can keep moreof what they save. Over a career, this can add up tothousands of additional dollars in retirement.TheTSP gives contributors the freedom to change

how they invest. Even though a servicemembercan no longer contribute after separating fromthe service, they can roll money into their TSPaccounts from other qualified plans or IRAs. Theycan also change their investment mix bymaking aninterfund transfer. Understanding how interfundtransfers work is important, especially with a Rothbalance in addition to a traditional balance in aTSP.

The TSP also offers smart, simple choices. Whenit comes to saving for retirement, more investmentoptions are not always better.Too many options canbe confusing and difficult to manage. Through TSP,you can invest in five individual funds (G, F, C, Sand I) that cover most of the investment landscape.Unsure how to invest among five individual

funds? Customers should consider the TSP’s life-cycle (L) Funds. The L Funds-L 2050, L 2040, L2030, L 2020 and L Income- are professionallydesigned to balance the expected risk and returnassociated with each of the five funds. Just choosethe one most closely associated with the year whenthe money will be needed.Want to make things really simple and make the

most out of a TSP account? Consider transferringother eligible retirement plans into TSP. Learnmore about this option by watching the combineand save video online here: https://www.tsp.gov/PDF/formspubs/tsp-536.pdf.Further, customers should bemindful of the early

withdrawal penalty tax. Customers can leave theirmoney in the TSP until they turn 70 years, six

months. Likewise, customers can be subject to a10 percent early withdrawal penalty tax by with-drawing money from the TSP before the age of 59years, six months. More information about taxesand related penalties can be found at: https://www.tsp.gov /PDF/forumspubs/tsp-536.pdf.Also, customers should not allow their loans

to linger: unpaid TSP loans must be repairedwithin 90 days from the date of military separa-tion. Otherwise, the loan may be deemed taxableincome by the Internal Revenue Service. To learnmore about TSP loans, refer to the TSP’s loansbooklet, available online here: https://www.tsp.gov/PDF/forumspubs/tspbk04.pdf.Finally, separating servicemembers should

verify their contact information, includinghome address, via www.tsp.gov or by calling1-TSP-YOU-FIRST. More information regardingTSP management can be found online via theTSP4gov YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/TSP4gov. TSP is also on twitter; follow us: @tsp4govto receive current, informative messagesas well as easy access tools.

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BarcroftApartments is now offering its gardenapartments with 10% discount for militarypersonnel &month to month leases available.

• Park right at your door in this park-like setting.• Walk to elementary and high school or Army NationalGuard Readiness Center.• Take the express bus to the Pentagon, Ft. Myer,Henderson Hall or Ballston in 12 minutes.• Cats welcome. No dogs.

PLEASE CALL (703) 521-3000HOURS: MON. - FRI. 9-5 Call for Saturday hours

BARCROFTAPARTMENTS1130 South George Mason Drive • Arlington, VA 22204

At Columbia Pike and So. George Mason DriveSome Restrictions Apply

Efficiency......................................................$979-$1005One Bedroom..............................................$1070-$1105Two Bedrooms............................................$1315-$1400Three Bedrooms Plus Electric.................$1500-$1545Townhome..............................................................$1500

All prices subject to change. A month. All utilities paid.

SPECIAL RATES FOR MILITARYAND FEDERAL EMPLOYEES

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Leaving the military? Stay with the Thrift Savings Plan

1042001B

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BarcroftApartments is now offering its gardenapartments with 10% discount for militarypersonnel &month to month leases available.

• Park right at your door in this park-like setting.• Walk to elementary and high school or Army NationalGuard Readiness Center.• Take the express bus to the Pentagon, Ft. Myer,Henderson Hall or Ballston in 12 minutes.• Cats welcome. No dogs.

PLEASE CALL (703) 521-3000HOURS: MON. - FRI. 9-5 Call for Saturday hours

BARCROFTAPARTMENTS1130 South George Mason Drive • Arlington, VA 22204

At Columbia Pike and So. George Mason DriveSome Restrictions Apply

Efficiency......................................................$979-$1005One Bedroom..............................................$1070-$1105Two Bedrooms............................................$1315-$1400Three Bedrooms Plus Electric.................$1500-$1545Townhome..............................................................$1500

All prices subject to change. A month. All utilities paid.

SPECIAL RATES FOR MILITARYAND FEDERAL EMPLOYEES

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Hiring For The Following Positions on the RangeOperations and Maintenance Contract:

2014-11880Engineering Technician I2014-11885Engineering Technician II2014-11886Engineering Technician IIINorfolk, VA

Must be a US Citizen and be able to obtain and hold aDoD Security Clearance.PAE is an equal Opportinuty Employer.Visit us online at https://www.PAE.comSee full job descriptions athttps://www.PAE.com/Careers, search by requisitionnumber.

These positions require Shipboard SupportExperience, Boat Operations and Maintenance with theMarine Operations Division.

SPRINGFIELD: 2 Br,2Ba, w/grg, W/D, nrMetro & shops, $1720 +util per [email protected]

Pharmacy/PhlebotomyTech TraineesNeeded NowPharmacies/ hospi-tals now hiring.No experience?Job Training& Placement

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Editor/Writer for Andrews GazetteAndrews Gazette, a newspaper published for distribution on Joint BaseAndrews and the surrounding community, is searching for an independentEditor/Writer. Candidate must be able to come up with story ideas for theweekly paper as well as go out in the community and cover events forpublication. Supervise one reporter/photographer and work with copy desk tolayout the paper each week. An understanding of how to cover military servicemembers and their families a plus. Must be organized and a team player.Strong writing and editing skills (AP style) a must. Must be able to manage staffand processes. College degree in journalism required. Prefer military familymembers and/or former military candidates.If interested and qualified, please send resume and cover letter with

salary requirements and three writing samples [email protected].

We offer a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits packageincluding medical, dental, pension, 401(k) and tuition reimbursement. EOE.



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Documents

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