Thursday, March 11, 2010

BRAC FACT

The construction of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s New Campus East building will use more than 45,000,000 pounds of steel. That’s 22,532 tons, 331 M1A2 Abrams Tanks or three Virginia-class submarines.

Fire Department press release

As a friendly reminder, the DES-Fort Belvoir Fire & Emergency Services reminds everyone to change their smoke alarm batteries when they change the clocks forward for daylight saving time. Additionally, people should test smoke alarms monthly.
Smoke alarms play a vital role in reducing deaths and injuries from fire and have contributed to the almost 50 percent decrease in fire deaths since the late 1970s. It is estimated that 95 percent of U.S. homes have at least one smoke alarm. Sixty-five percent of reported home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms save lives and protect against injury and loss from fire.
Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. The manufacture date should be on the back of the alarm.
This is also a good time to practice family escape plans. Everyone should know two ways out of their house and know the outside meeting place that is a safe distance from the house, such as a tree or mail box.
Information on smoke alarms is available from the Fort Belvoir Fire Marshal Office, 703-805-2091.

Belvoir achieves environmental compliance

By Paul Bello
Staff writer

An external audit conducted by the Army Environmental Command last month found Fort Belvoir to be in compliance with its Environmental Management System. Under this DoD initiative, EMS integrates environmental stewardship into the management of the installation and addresses all planning activities, responsibilities, procedures and resources as they relate to the environment.
According to Michelle Royal, an environmental specialist with Belvoir’s Directorate of Public Works, every installation must meet a set of requirements to achieve compliance. Among them are: complying with all legal standards; maintaining and properly documenting records; having open communication with all organizations and tenants; promoting sustainable growth and outlining objectives for the future.
“The installation is a lot different now, as opposed to five years ago. There are many things to consider, such as traffic, construction and air emissions,“ Royal said. “By achieving compliance, we’re basically saying we’re doing exactly what we said we would be doing. It also means we’re right on target and where we want to be when it comes to our work with the environment.“
Royal said there are a number of environmental objectives Belvoir has targeted for 2010. They include reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a reduction of energy by at least three percent annually. Others include implementing renewable energy projects; supporting the purchase and use of plug-in hybrid vehicles; promoting cost-effective measures to reduce energy, water and material use during construction projects; and reducing the consumption of transportation-related petroleum products by at least two percent.
“We also plan on spending $3 million to repair storm-water deficiencies through 2016. Another objective is to ensure that repairs to historic properties promote their long-term viability,“ Royal said. “A main goal of ours from here on out is to increase the public’s education on what we’re doing to make things better. We don’t want to lose out on that opportunity by not sharing information.“ 
Comments or suggestions on promoting or implementing quality environmental practices can be e-mailed to . army.mil.

Belvoir joins Commonwealth for statewide tornado drills

By Mario Sumter

Tornadoes, the most violent natural hazard, are rotating, funnel-shaped clouds formed from thunderstorms. They can have wind gusts up to 300 mph and can cut a swath of damage a mile wide.
Generally, tornadoes occur between March and August, and between noon and midnight, but, can hit at any time of the year and at any time of the day. According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, no part of Virginia is immune from tornadoes.
To encourage everyone to practice tornado safety at home, at work and at school, Gov. Bob McDonnell has declared Tuesday as “Tornado Preparedness Day.“ On that date, schools, businesses, organizations and families may participate in a statewide tornado drill, which is a joint effort of VDEM and the National Weather Service.
Fort Belvoir takes part by activating its mass warning notification system, also known as Giant Voice, at 9:45 a.m. The tornado warning message will use the following sequence:
1. “Exercise, Exercise, Exercise.”
2. You will hear a five second alert tone.
3. A two second pause
4. “Tornado warning”
5. Two second pause
6. “Take cover immediately”
7. Two second pause
8. “Tornado warning”
9. Two second pause
10. “Attention”
11. Two second pause
12. “Tornado warning”
13. Two second pause
14. “Take cover immediately”
15. Two second pause
16. “Tornado warning”
Once the drill is complete, an “all clear” message and an announcement concluding the drill will be announced.
How to prepare for a tornado
Stay informed and know tornado terminology. A tornado watch means weather conditions are favorable for a tornado to develop. Stay tuned to the radio or TV for more information and further instructions.
A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted. Take shelter immediately.
Identify places in your home and at work to take shelter in case of a tornado. A storm shelter or basement provides the best protection. Otherwise, choose an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible.
Get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, and have frequent tornado drills
What to do during a tornado
At home:
• Go at once to a windowless interior room, storm cellar or basement; or the lowest level of the building.
• Get under and hold onto a piece of sturdy furniture like a workbench, heavy table or desk.
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
• Get out and find shelter elsewhere if in a mobile home.
At work:
• Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs like auditoriums, cafeterias or large hallways.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
Outside:
• Get inside if possible.
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
In a vehicle:
• Never try to outrun a tornado.
• Get in a ditch or low-lying area away from your vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.
Actions to consider after a tornado
• Check for injuries and provide first aid to others, if needed.
• Watch out for broken glass, fallen power lines, and do not enter damaged areas until told it is safe to do so.
• Do not use candles or an open flame; combustibles may be present.
• Use caution when entering a damaged building.
• Report your status to someone or to your chain of command if you are military or government civilian employee, spouse, or parent as your situation applies.

You can find additional information at the following Web sites:
• Ready Army - ready.army.mil
• American Red Cross - redcross.org
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - bt.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/
• Department of Homeland Security - ready.gov/america/beinformed/tornadoes.html
• Federal Emergency Management Agency -  fema.gov/hazard/tornado/index.shtm
Sumter is an emergency management specialist with Belvoir’s Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security.

AER sets its sights on another successful year

By Paul Bello
Staff writer

The Army Emergency Relief campaign began March 1, and those involved with its coordination at Fort Belvoir are looking forward to another successful year. In 2009, the installation collected nearly $135,000 during its annual fundraising drive - an increase of more than $10,000 from the previous year.
Dating back to World War II, AER has provided emergency financial assistance to Soldiers and their families. It helps with food, rent, utilities, medical expenses and provides college scholarships to children.
Lt. Col. Kevin McKenna, commander of Headquarters Battalion, said this year’s campaign has set its sights on topping that figure with a goal of $150,000. As key administrators of AER, McKenna said Soldiers from Hq. Bn. have been training individuals from a variety of tenant organizations to act as coordinators and help with collecting and processing this year’s donations.
With 14 units already aboard, McKenna said it’s just a matter of getting the rest of the Belvoir work force notified about the benefits associated with AER.
“It’s a fantastic program, for not only Soldiers, but their families,“ McKenna said. “Soldiers from Hq Bn. have used AER in the past to receive help for various things, so I know how valuable it is. The help it provides speaks volumes.“
McKenna especially likes AER’s ability to provide money for scholarships, which includes an Overseas Spouse Education Assistance Program. Master Sgt. Renee McMillian, also from Hq. Bn., has worked as an AER campaign manager for the last four years and said there’s no dollar limit to how one can help the program. 
“People who are committed to this program will gladly donate no matter what the circumstances. I say that because I’ve seen it happen,“ McMillian said. “I’ve seen donations in the $2,500 to $3,000 range. People know how important AER is and that the money goes right back to helping Soldiers.“
Ed Milligan, executive officer at battalion, said the group will be working closely with the installation’s AER Office between now and the last day of the program, May 14. An official kick-off ceremony for the AER campaign is scheduled for March 18 at 10:30 a.m. in the Fort Belvoir Community Center.
“To put things in perspective, if we have a work force of roughly 50,000, each person would just have to give $3 as a donation for us to meet our goal,“ McKenna said. “That’s all it would take. This is open to anyone who wishes to donate. It’s all for a very good cause. We’ll take anyone’s money.“
Anyone interested in donating to this year’s AER campaign can contact Spc. Eddie Williams at the battalion, 806-5650. Additional information is available from aerhq.org.

Web site details women’s history and contributions to the military

By Paul Bello
Staff writer

With March being Women’s History Month across the U.S., there’s no better time than now for Barbara Wilson’s own piece of Web real estate to flourish.
For 15 years, the retired Air Force captain has been steadfast at gathering information for a Web site dedicated to the history and success of women in the military. Her research includes, among others, achievements made during the American Revolution, Civil War, both World Wars and Operation Desert Storm.
“In World War I and World War II, women were in the line of fire. They were wounded, taken prisoner and killed. However, history and various rant organizations seem to leave that part out,“ Wilson said. “That’s one of the reasons why I started this site. It just grew from there.“
Wilson said she started looking for information about military women online back in the mid ‘90s, but was frustrated at not finding much. She then called her Internet service provider and asked if they would be interested in hosting a page strictly for this purpose.
“They told me to go for it. It’s been a pet project of mine ever since,“ Wilson said. “I don’t have a corporate sponsor and the government doesn’t pay for anything. With respect to donations, as much as I could use them, I think it would be both presumptive and arrogant of me to solicit them from individuals. Though, if any corporate entity would like to contribute - that’s different.“
Operating as a “one-woman band,“ Wilson said she gets by with an old black and white bubble jet printer and a borrowed digital camera. Besides using the Internet for much of her research, she also buys books regularly on everything from keeping up with HTML to the latest on military women.
A one-time antique and collectibles dealer, Wilson said almost all of the images on her Web site come from her own personal collection of memorabilia about military women. One of those includes her favorite - a 1940s recruiting poster for the WAC that asks, “Are you a girl with a Star-Spangled Heart?“
“I have much memorabilia that adorns the walls of my den, so it’s really nice to include it on the site,“ Wilson said. “I have seven bookcases in my home filled with everything from rare antiquarian books from the early 1800s to modern references from the ‘90s. Not to mention my years of service from 1949 to 1970 - that certainly adds to the experience factor.“
Retired now for 40 years, Wilson is pleased to answer questions about her Web site, particularly from students who come across it. Despite not having the time to research specific topics, she often finds herself making an exception.
“I don’t wish to disappoint the youngsters. So, if the item or person they’re looking for is on the site, I will send them the page,“ Wilson said. “I try to answer them by explaining how to use a search engine to get more information. Every request from a student is answered individually. I’m more than happy to help.“
Wilson’s Web site is available at http://userpages.aug.com/captbarb/faq.html. For more information, e-mail .

Get to know JPPSOWA

Did you know?
Members are authorized to ship unaccompanied baggage by parcel post, air mail, military official mail, surface mail or small package service?
What this means to you
Servicemembers can mail items that will be needed immediately upon arrival at his/her next duty station instead of scheduling and waiting for a carrier to pick them up. The weight of these items will be charged against the Household Goods and Unaccompanied Baggage weight allowance of the person who is Permanently Changing Stations.
The key point to remember is that reimbursements are for the amount it would actually cost the government to move these items. The packages’ weight must be listed on the receipt and presented when filing a claim for reimbursement. People who follow these steps tend to have an expedited reimbursement process.
Information is available from local transportation officers. At Fort Belvoir, information is available from JPPSOWA’s Web site, Belvoir.army.mil/jppsowa. People who are planning a move should visit the site before coming to the office. People may also contact the office by phone or email to 703-806- 4900 or .
The office’s hours are Mondays to Fridays from 8 a. m. to 4:30 p.m., except federal holidays. JPPSOWA’s office is at 9325 Gunston Road, Bldg. 1466, Fort Belvoir, Va., 22060.

New health system site makes information accessible

American Forces Press Service

The Military Health System has launched a new Health.mil Web site that provides a single point of entry to military health news, information and resources.
The site is part of the DoD’s continued commitment to make health information available and easy to find, officials said. Content is categorized by topic or audience, including servicemembers, retirees and families; health care providers; educators and researchers; Military Health System staff; Defense Department leaders; and media.
“We’ve listened to the feedback from our users and redesigned the site to make it better-easier to navigate and easier to find information,“ said Dr. Michael Kilpatrick, director of strategic communications for the Military Health System. “The new Health.mil is better organized, better looking, and more seamlessly integrated with our social media efforts.“
The new design better serves the system’s health care beneficiaries by providing links to Tricare and eBenefits up front. An easy-to-navigate layout provides multiple paths to the information, including an exposed site map and a topic index on every page. The new site includes improved Section 508 compliance for the disabled and is easier to use with mobile devices. A robust search function pulls in results from across multiple organizational Web sites within the Military Health System.
America’s Military Health System is a unique partnership of medical educators, medical researchers and health-care providers and their support personnel worldwide. This DoD enterprise consists of the office of the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs; the medical departments of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard and Joint Chiefs of Staff; the combatant command surgeons; and Tricare providers, including private-sector health-care providers, hospitals and pharmacies.

PX shoppers’ opinions can be worth $5

AAFES press release

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is constantly seeking opportunities to improve its benefit. As part of this effort, the DoD’s oldest and largest exchange service relies on an ongoing Customer Service Index to provide localized, real-time snapshots of the job PX facilities are doing to improve the value of the support provided to Soldiers and their families.
An AAFES survey, which addresses customer service, pricing, sales associate availability, merchandise assortment and many more key issues, is administered at a quarter of AAFES main stores every three months.
Fort Belvoir shoppers’ opportunity to participate in the 2010 Customer Service Index runs through March 20. Until then, troops and their families are encouraged to visit the exchange to provide feedback on locally available services. Beyond improving the exchange benefit, shoppers who participate will also get a coupon worth $5 off their next purchase at the PX.
“We want to hear from as many Fort Belvoir shoppers as possible,“ said the PX’s General Manager, Rick Talbot. “Efforts like the CSI are critical to not only improving the shopping experience, but also bolstering the Morale, Welfare and Recreation dividend the PX annually delivers to the community as healthy exchange operations produce greater returns for Army quality-of-life programs.“

Friday, March 05, 2010

BRAC FACT

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s New Campus East building has many unique design features, such as the peak of the tallest atrium roof arch, which sits 167 feet above the atrium floor.
This is almost double the height of a typical Washington, D.C. office building.