The article discusses Fort Meade's historic golf course, which is scheduled to close on May 1 to make way for construction projects. The 27-hole golf course has served the Fort Meade community for over 60 years but patronage has declined in recent years. Garrison officials are working to find alternative golfing options for members and employees. A virtual town hall was also held on Facebook to discuss community issues and concerns with garrison leaders.

1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 10 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
March 8, 2012
ultimate
warriors
photos courtesy U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command
Wounded, ill and injured Soldiers will compete for a spot on the 2012 Warrior Games Army team during the final qualifications camp that begins today and ends Tuesday.
Athletes will compete in track and field events, cycling and sitting volleyball at Fort Meade. The public is invited to watch. For a complete schedule, see Page 6.
weighing in help wanted UPCOMING EVENTS
Competitors shed Post job fair gives SUNDAY: Daylight Saving Time Begins (set clocks ahead one hour)
pounds in Dump youth opportunity to March 15, 7-10 p.m.: Karaoke Night - The Lanes 11th Frame Lounge
Your Plump contest showcase their talents March 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Technical Job Fair - Club Meade
March 22, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Women’s History Month Observance - McGill
page 14 page 12

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Talk of the Town
´
Editorial Staff Guaranteed circulation:
Garrison Commander 11,285
Col. Edward C. Rothstein
Garrison Command Last week, we (members of Team Meade and I) activities such as
Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith hosted our second Facebook town hall. I have to tell jogging, running
Public Affairs Officer you I was extremely pleased with the response from and riding bicy-
Chad T. Jones the post community. cles is a violation
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil Since our first Facebook town hall back in Octo- of post policy,
Chief, Command Information ber, I have hosted face-to-face town halls at McGill unless you are in a
Philip H. Jones Training Center and held two other town halls in our restricted area that
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil residential neighborhood centers. is free of motor
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer These town halls are opportunities for the Fort vehicles. And it is
Rona S. Hirsch Meade community, including retirees and others who a violation of post
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz have relationships with the post, to discuss their issues safety regulations,
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis and concerns. as well as Mary- COL. Edward c.
Supple­mental photography provided At one of our neighborhood center town halls land state laws, to Rothstein
Garrison Commander
by Patuxent Publishing Co. we discussed concerns that some parents have with drive and talk on
schools located on post and our efforts to work a hand-held cell phone or text while driving.
Advertising with teachers, principals and Anne Arundel County There are a lot of common-sense things we all can
administrators to provide our youth with a quality do to help keep Fort Meade safe. But it takes all of
General Inquiries 410-332-6300
education and great school experience. us focusing on safety first.
Allison Thompson
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com
At the other neighborhood center town hall, we What pleased me most about last week’s town
Michele Griesbauer
talked about the perception of crime in our housing hall was that as we tabulated all areas of concerns,
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com areas and how residents could take a more proac- we continued to get very high satisfaction from com-
tive approach to report issues and concerns to the munity members who are extremely grateful to have
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are Directorate of Emergency Services. We learned there the opportunity to share their thoughts with Team
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com. are things we all can do to make our homes and our Meade.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through neighborhoods safer and help everyone feel more There was an abundance of posts that said, “Thank
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. secure. you for hosting this town hall,” and how apprecia-
At last week’s Facebook town hall, many of these tive you were to have the opportunity to share your
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary same concerns and questions were asked again. One thoughts with me.
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday of the most discussed topics centered on speeding and It’s extremely important to me to keep our com-
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. parking in our residential areas. munity aware of what’s happening on Fort Meade.
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the You’ve heard me say this before — making sure That’s why I will keep having town halls, employ an
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Fort Meade is a safe and secure environment is one of open door policy, and look for other ways to interact
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. my highest priorities as garrison commander. Speed- with the post community and provide you with ways
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage ing on post is something I will not tolerate. And find- to voice your issues and concerns.
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, ing ways to deter speeding is also a priority for DES. My goal, as garrison commander, is to be atten-
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser In response, DES has increased its patrols and is tive, transparent and as helpful as possible. Working
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. monitoring problem areas in our neighborhoods. We together, I’m sure we can continue to find ways for
are also working to place portable speed monitors on Fort Meade to be a great place to work, live and
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are
our streets to help drivers become more aware about play.
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance how fast they are driving. DES is aware that speeding I look forward to having more of these conversa-
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of is a community concern and will continue to work to tions with you.
the Army of the products or services advertised. address this issue. A couple of last thoughts: The Fort Meade Fire and
I also continue to urge the community to call DES Emergency Services asked that I remind you to change
if you see something suspicious, if you are having the batteries in your home smoke detectors when you
problems with parking in your neighborhood and change the time on your clocks on Sunday at 2 a.m.
www.ftmeade.army.mil most importantly, if you witness a crime. DES is here I also encourage you to stop by and support the
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on twitter at twitter.com/meadetv to support the entire post community. But we need Fort Meade Thrift Shop. Managed by the Enlisted
and view the Fort Meade Blog at meadetv.wordpress.com. you to call 301-677-6622 and report your concerns. Spouses Club, the Thrift Shop makes uniforms, cloth-
Another area of concern had to do with jogging ing, small appliances and household items available to
and running on post. With the change to Daylight the post community.
Saving Time this weekend, it is an opportune time for Proceeds from the Thrift Shop support youth
Co n t e n t s me to remind drivers and runners to pay attention to
your surroundings.
scholarships and other community programs. For
more information about the Thrift Shop and ESC
Wearing headphones while engaging in physical volunteer activities, visit www.ftmeadeesc.org.
News.............................. 3 News to Use........................10 Commander’s Open Door: Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein has an
open door policy. All service members, retirees, government employees, family members or
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Sports................................... 14 community members age 18 or older are invited to address issues or concerns to the com-
mander directly by visiting Rothstein’s office on Mondays from 4 to 6 p.m. at garrison head-
Community.................. 16 Movies.................................. 18 quarters in Hodges Hall, Bldg. 4551, Llewellyn Avenue. Visitors are seen on a first-come, first-
served basis. No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 301-677-4844.
SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
Fort Meade golf course set to close May 1
Installation, partners continue to develop short-, long-term solutions
By Mary Doyle Originally a 36-hole golf course with a driv- The Courses’ Clubhouse will remain open and improvements to buildings on the installa-
Chief of Media Relations ing range, putting green and club house, the and serve as a meeting and catering location, tion, such as child care and child development
Fort Meade Public Affairs Office Courses lost nine holes and its driving range allowing some staff to keep their current jobs centers as well as service member and youth
The historic golf course that has served as due to the Base Realignment and Closure running those facilities. sports facilities.
the centerpiece of Fort Meade since 1950 is expansion when the Defense Information Sys- Hopes of replacing the golf course through Replacing the golf course is an important
scheduled to close May 1. tems Agency and the Defense Media Activity various financing methods continue to be part of installation efforts to provide quality
The date of closing was moved forward to headquarters buildings were constructed, leav- explored, but shrinking defense budgets and services to service members and their families
accommodate deadlines associated with major ing 27 playable holes. fiscal realities are making the possibility of a without drawing on tax payer dollars for
construction projects, which will occupy the Patronage of the remaining 27 holes drew new course look more remote. support.
land. Closure of the remaining 27 holes was more than 35,000 rounds of play last year “We aren’t giving up,” Rothstein said. The Courses at Fort Meade were actually
anticipated but not expected until September. including golfers who participated in 41 tour- “There are a lot of creative thinkers working two separate 18-hole golf courses. The Apple-
Garrison officials are aware that members naments held at the course. toward the goal of moving this course to a wood course, designed by architect Maj. Robert
and daily golfers on the Courses will miss an “We are in negotiation with golf courses in location that has already been selected. That B. McClure, opened in 1950. George Cobb, a
opportunity to enjoy one last season of play. neighboring counties in the hopes that we can said, I want you to know that Meade is aggres- recognized golf course architect who designed
“I know the golf course will be missed,” work out reciprocal agreements for our remain- sively continuing efforts to find an alternative more than 80 courses nationwide, designed The
Garrison Commander Edward C. Rothstein ing golf club members,” said Scott Myers, resolution to meet our community golfing Parks course, which opened in 1956.
said. “It has served me along with the entire chief of business operations for Fort Meade’s requirements. Every Fort Meade garrison commander
Team Meade community, helping our service Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare Rothstein said garrison staff is aiming its since the opening of the Courses has hosted
members, civilian workers, retirees and families and Recreation, which runs the golf course. efforts toward a long-term solution. events on the course, which over the years has
balance work and life activities. Currently, 33 employees work at the golf “Nothing is off the table,” he said. “From entertained such famous players as President
“The loss of the golf course is an emotional course. Of those, 15 are seasonal workers who building a new golf course on another loca- Dwight D. Eisenhower and Lt. Gen. Floyd
issue. However, the decision to support nation- only work during the summer months. Myers tion on post to possibly purchasing a local Parks.
al security, DoD priorities and our partners is said every effort is being made to place the golf course, we’re exploring many alterna- Editor’s note: For more information,
not difficult.” groundskeepers, golf pros, catering managers tives. In the short term, we are working to call Mary Doyle in the Fort Meade Public
Rothstein will host the final Commander’s and others into jobs either with the installa- establish reciprocal agreements with county Affairs Office at 301-677-5592 or email mary.
Cup Golf Tournament at the historic course tion, or to help them find positions at golf golf courses.” l.doyle14.civ@mail.mil, or visit www.ftmeade.
on April 29. courses off post. Fees from the golf course help fund repairs army.mil and click on environmental.
Virtual town hall creates two-way conversation
By Brandon Bieltz Facebook page. While the Facebook page is inside the conference room. Each question was
Staff Writer typically used as a social media platform that tracked from the time it was first posted onto
In the conference room at the Fort Meade allows community members to talk to one the Fort Meade Facebook “wall” to when it
Public Affairs Office, members of the garrison another, the town hall offered the opportunity was answered and resolved.
command team and representatives of various to have post officials respond directly to com- The most popular topics posted were relat-
post services gathered around computers as munity concerns. ed to speeding, residential parking, on-post
they answered questions posed by the commu- “The unique thing about the town hall is running regulations, and schools. Of the top
nity during Fort Meade’s Facebook town hall. that we had post leaders and key service pro- 10 topics covered, compliments on the town
The event was hosted Feb. 29 by Garrison viders together, so we’re able to immediately hall and gate security guards ranked third and
Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein. respond to a variety of questions and com- sixth, respectively.
“These town halls are opportunities for ments,” Kelly said. “There were a lot of things that we can
the Fort Meade community, including retirees photo by Jason Kelly The previous event, which was held in Octo- look at now, and help the command group pri-
and others who have relationships with Fort Garrison staff and partner organization
ber 2011, resulted in 823 interactions with the oritize what’s on the community’s mind,” said
Meade, to discuss their issues and concerns,” officials discuss a question posted on the Fort
Fort Meade community during a two-and-a- Philip Jones, chief of command information at
Rothstein said. Meade Facebook page during the installation’s
half-hour session. Kelly attributed producing the Fort Meade PAO. “Giving the community
During a span of 90 minutes, the Fort second virtual town hall on Feb. 29.
the same kind of numbers, in a shorter amount an opportunity to share their concerns is a
Meade Facebook page registered 837 interac- of time, to minor tweaks to the process. priority for the garrison command.”
tions while responding to questions ranging a two-way conversation. The Facebook town “We looked at what happened last time Employing Facebook and other social
from on-post speeding to the visitor’s policy hall provides the community a direct line to and how we could improve the process for this media tools gives the post commander a real-
at post elementary schools. the commander to talk about what’s important town hall in order to make it more efficient, time sense about how the community feels
“While the numbers are very impressive, to them.” and we were definitely able to accomplish about issues, said Jones.
what we’re trying to accomplish isn’t just about Twenty officials from post directorates and that,” he said. “Social media is an important part of pub-
the numbers,” said Jason Kelly, emerging service organizations such as the Post Exchange To help streamline the process, officials lic affairs and telling Fort Meade’s story,” he
media manager at the Fort Meade PAO. “It’s and Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center divided into teams to respond to posted ques- said “It provides us an incredible opportunity
just as important, if not more important, to participated in the virtual event, responding tions. Teams also worked to closely track each to connect with the people who live, work and
give our community the opportunity to have to questions posted onto the Fort Meade question displayed on the two large monitors play at Fort Meade.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 8, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Have you noticed an issue on post Community
Trouble
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail.
Crime Watch
Ticket mil. Each week, Soundoff! will Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
address issues identified on post
Feb. 28, Shoplifting: AAFES 2. Subject 2, in turn, struck
and describe what is being done to security at the Post Exchange subject 1 in the eye with a
solve them. observed the subject conceal closed fist.
merchandise on her person and
exit the store without rendering March 5, Assault consummated
proper payment. by a battery: Units were dis-
patched to a domestic argu-
March 3, Assault: The Director- ment in progress, which turned
ate of Emergency Services was noti- physical when the subject grabbed his
fied of an assault. An investigation spouse’s wrist and twisted it. He fur-
revealed that subjects 1 and 2 entered ther pushed her on the bed, climbed on
into a verbal altercation, which turned top of her and grabbed her around the
physical when subject 1 pushed subject throat to keep her pinned down.
Chaplain’s Word
FAITH
When you come to the end of all the light
you know, and it’s time to step
into the darkness of the unknown,
faith is knowing that one of two things
shall happen: Either you will be given something
solid to stand on
or you will be taught to fly.
— Edward Teller
file photo
Play equipment near the Boundless Playground is currently undergoing repairs.
Find the Fort Meade
Religious Schedule
at
Issue: Plan: Status: www.ftmeade.
The Installation Safety Office
has deemed and marked
Repair the play equipment
so that it is functional
Repairs are under way army.mil.
some play equipment at
Look for the “Community” tab
Burba Lake as unsafe then click on “Religious
Services” for schedules,
Community members Maintain a minimum of Golf operations are events and
have concerns about golf 18 holes at current site; unchanged through contact information.
course service availability in restoring golf operations May 1; The Clubhouse will
light of Base Closure and on a site south of the remain open for catering
Realignment installation is also proposed and conferences
Find Fort Meade on
Youth Services Sports Renovate the Youth Services Actual use of fields will be
Complex is in need of Sports Complex this fall to allow Facebook at
renovations grass to mature Facebook.com/ftmeade
SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
Soldiers helping Soldiers
AER campaign takes off with $80,000 goal
Story and photo by Brandon Bieltz this year.
Staff Writer Following the training session, Wal-
The annual Army Emergency Relief lace Turner, the installation’s AER offi-
campaign fundraiser kicked off March cer, said he has no doubt the volunteer-
1 at the Army Community Service build- representatives will exceed the $80,000
ing with a training program, cake and a goal set for them.
visit from Garrison Commander Col. “They’re ready to go,” Turner said.
Edward C. Rothstein. During a short break in the training,
This year’s goal is to raise $80,000 Rothstein and Garrison Command Sgt.
before the campaign wraps up on May Maj. Charles E. Smith spoke with AER
15. representatives and encouraged them to
AER assists active-duty Soldiers, retir- aim beyond the $80,000 goal.
ees, Reservists and Guardsmen and their Rothstein said that since he became
family members with financial assistance garrison commander last summer, the
during emergencies. The fund provides installation has surpassed each goal that
interest-free loans and grants for help he has set and hopes this campaign con-
in a variety of situations such as rent or tinues that trend. Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein speaks with Army Emergency Relief
car payments, medical care, and traveling “Every target number I’ve thrown campaign representatives during a training session on March 1 that kicked off the
expenses for a Soldier who needs to rush out there we exceed,” Rothstein said to annual campaign on Fort Meade. The campaign goal is to raise $80,000 before May
home for a family emergency. the group. “We’re going to exceed this 15.
Last year, the Fort Meade campaign $80,000 because of you.”
raised more than $112,000. More than Smith said that the success of the Fort raise donations. Both Rothstein and During his 29 years in the Army, Roth-
$700,000 was distributed to 505 installa- Meade campaign depends on the collec- Smith said they are willing meet with any stein said, he has seen AER money help
tion Soldiers in need. tive effort of the volunteer representa- unit or organization to help spread the various Soldiers “over and over again
“AER is Soldiers taking care of Sol- tives who will be reaching out to their word of the campaign and reach more for all the right reasons.” He encouraged
diers,” Rothstein said. units to solicit donations. Soldiers. representatives to promote the AER
During the two-hour kickoff, represen- “In order for this program to be suc- “You’re here to tell the story to your campaign as a total Army approach,
tatives from Army units were instructed cessful, it’s going to be you,” Smith said. leaders,” Rothstein said. “If you want with Soldiers helping their own.
on educating Soldiers about the AER “You have to get out there.” Command Sergeant Major and I to do “Commit yourself to telling that
program and how to properly collect The two garrison leaders also offered that, I’m more than happy. This is that story,” he said, “that holistic approach
donations, which can be given online their services to help representatives important to me.” of Soldiers helping Soldiers.”
Warrior Games Today: Track and Field from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at Mullins
Field
Friday: Cycling from 8 to 11:30 a.m. at McGill Training
Center parking lot
Saturday: Sit volleyball from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Murphy
Field House
Saturday: Track and field from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at
Mullins Field (event qualification day)
Sunday: Cycling from 8:30 a.m. to noon at McGill
Training Center parking lot (event qualification day)
Sunday: Track from 1 to 5 p.m. at Mullins Field (event
qualification day)
Monday: Sit volleyball from noon to 2:30 p.m. at Murphy
Field House
Final selection for the 2012 Warrior Games Army team begins today and Monday: Awards ceremony from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at
ends Tuesday. Fort Meade will host track and field, cycling, and volleyball McGill Training Center parking lot photos courtesy U.S. Army
Warrior Transition Command
competition.
SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

6. N ews
Superfund supports environmental cleanups
By Nicole Walworth and Denise Tegtmeyer is carried out through the Installation Res- pesticides, were found.
Environmental Division toration Program. The program is specific The release of these solvents occurred
This is another in a series of articles to military facilities and its purpose is to generations ago and soaked into the ground
designed to inform the Fort Meade com- identify, investigate and clean up sites with and gradually seeped into the groundwater
munity on the status of the environmental hazardous substances to reduce the risk to underneath the site. Groundwater is water
cleanup program including actions that may human health and the environment. located beneath the ground surface.
occur in the near future. The Installation Restoration Program, Solvents from OU-4 were also identi-
The U.S. Environmental Protection or IRP, is responsible for the cleanup fied in groundwater located off post in
Agency has developed a program to man- actions under CERCLA. Odenton.
age and control past disposal and spill Investigation of the southeast area As a additional precautionary measure,
sites. groundwater (also known as Operable the Army completed a survey of more than
Commonly referred to as “Super- Unit-4 or OU-4) highlights how the CER- 2,500 homes located within one mile of
fund,” the Comprehensive Environmental CLA process is followed at Fort Meade. where the solvents were detected.
Response, Compensation, and Liability OU-4 is situated in the southeast corner Once residents were identified to be using
Act, or CERCLA, as amended by the 1986 of Fort Meade and is comprised of seven well water, their wells were sampled to
Superfund Amendments and Reauthoriza- former industrial sites: determine the presence or absence of these
tion Act, were passed in part to clean up • Former Motor Pool Maintenance contaminants. To date, all but one of the
past disposal and spill sites. The U.S. Envi- Facility (Building 2286) - vehicle painting residential wells tested met EPA drinking
ronmental Protection Agency has devel- and vehicle repair water standards.
oped regulations to execute Superfund. • Former Tank Maintenance Facility As an additional precautionary mea-
These acts were passed into law and photo courtesy environmental division Shop 1 (Building 2207) - storage facility sure, the Army offered bottled water to all
established a process for the investigation and tank maintenance shop residents using drinking water wells within
This spring, the Army will install three, • Former Tank Maintenance Facility the one-mile radius. Homes and businesses
and cleanup of hazardous waste disposal deep groundwater monitoring wells
and spill sites to protect human health, Shop 2 (Former Building 2217) - tank receiving their water from the public water
on Anne Arundel County property maintenance facility and motor vehicle supply (Anne Arundel County) are not at
safety and the environment. in residential areas of Odenton, just
The Superfund cleanup process begins storage facility, including an equipment risk from these solvents.
southeast of Fort Meade. wash rack
with site discovery or notification to EPA of
possible releases of hazardous substances. • Former Tank Cleaning Warehouse Upcoming activities
Sites are discovered by various parties, at this point, such as the removal action (Building 2240) - warehouse for paints, Outreach efforts and groundwater char-
including residents, state agencies and fed- conducted at Manor View Elementary oils, cleaners, and batteries; included a acterization in the Odenton area are ongo-
eral agencies. School (as discussed in the Feb. 9 issue of former underground storage tank ing.
Once discovered, EPA evaluates the Soundoff!) • Former Missile Repair Shop (Building The Army will install three deep ground-
potential for a release of hazardous sub- 3. Feasibility Study - Results of the risk 2220) - missile repair shop, warehouse and water monitoring wells on Anne Arundel
stances from the site through the steps in assessments, along with the data collection troop training center County property in residential areas of
the Superfund cleanup process. during the RI, are used to evaluate cleanup • Former Heavy Gun Cleaning Shop Odenton, just southeast of Fort Meade, in
alternatives that have been screened for (Building 2253) - maintain military equip- the early spring.
Seven-step CERCLA process effectiveness, implementability and cost. ment, and store and maintain landscaping The monitoring wells are part of the
The seven-step CERCLA process to 4. Proposed Plan - The cleanup alter- and groundskeeping equipment; included comprehensive study to define how far the
identify, investigate and clean up a disposal natives evaluated in the FS are presented an aboveground storage tank (AST) solvents have traveled in the groundwater.
or release site is carried out with input from along with a brief analysis resulting in the Some traffic disruptions and lane clo-
the EPA and other stakeholders including preferred alternative. This step requires a CERCLA investigations at Operable sures are anticipated due to the size of the
state and local environmental regulators as meeting to provide information to the pub- Unit-4 drilling equipment. The monitoring wells
well as the local community. lic and allows the public to comment on the The first phase of CERCLA, the prelimi- will be installed using a drill rig.
Steps include: preferred alternative. nary assessment/site inspection conducted Data collected from the monitoring wells
1. Preliminary Assessment/Site Inspec- 5. Record of Decision - A public docu- at OU-4, included numerous surface and will be used to complete the RI and begin
tion (PA/SI) - An initial review of the site, ment that explains which alternative will be subsurface soil, groundwater, sediment, and developing an approach to cleaning up the
including review of the historic records and used to clean up the site. surface water samples to characterize the groundwater contamination at OU-4.
visual inspections. 6. Remedial Design/Remedial Action nature and extent of contamination.
Sampling and analysis of soil, surface - A design for implementing the selected Findings indicated that further investiga- Additional information
water, and/or groundwater may occur to cleanup alternative is prepared. The cleanup tion is warranted, so the second phase of Fort Meade has established an infor-
evaluate whether the site poses a threat to remedy is carried out and the public is kept CERCLA — remedial investigation — was mation repository, which contains docu-
human health and the environment and informed. started. The RI is under way to determine ments on the sites on post.
needs to move to the next phase for further 7. Remedial Action Report - Documents the specific location and type of the con- These documents are available for pub-
investigation. the cleanup in a report. tamination in soils and groundwater within lic review at the West County Area Library
2. Remedial Investigation (RI) - A closer At the conclusion of the CERCLA pro- OU-4. at 1325 Annapolis Road in Odenton (410-
look including collecting and analyzing cess, a site is restored for future use. During the CERCLA process at OU-4, 222-6277) and the Fort Meade Environ-
samples to assess the risk to human health groundwater contaminated with industrial mental Division at 2212 Chisholm Ave.
and the environment, such as the RI for the Southeast area groundwater solvents used for cleaning and degreasing (301-677-9854).
southeastern area groundwater. investigation metals, to dry clean fabrics, and as an ingre- For more information, call the Fort Meade
A removal action also may be performed At Fort Meade, the CERCLA process dient in paint removers, spot removers and Environmental Division at 410-677-9854.
SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

7. N ews
Support group for spouses deals with post-combat stress
By Lisa R. Rhodes Deputy Garrison Chaplain (Maj.) Boug- ronment where spouses can share their feel- tators will ask participants to evaluate the
Staff Writer slaw Augustyn, a Catholic priest, and Fields ings, learn coping skills and connect with group. Fields said they hope members will
A Soldier wakes suddenly from his came up with the idea for the support group others, Byrnes said. continue to support one another and that
sleep. to help spouses dealing with PTSD. The group’s discussions are confidential the facilitators will keep in touch to find out
Drenched in sweat and disoriented, he Once called shell shock or battle fatigue and will not be documented. However, the if participants need additional help.
is experiencing a flashback from his ser- syndrome, PTSD is a serious mental illness co-facilitators, who are all licensed social If the support group is a success, other
vice in Iraq. His screams wake up his wife, that can develop after a person has experi- workers, are required by state law to report sessions may follow in the future.
who manages to stop him from reaching enced or witnessed a traumatic or terrify- incidents of child abuse and neglect and “If we’re meeting their needs, our intent
for his firearm in the nightstand drawer. ing event in which serious physical harm threats of suicide and homicide. is to keep the support group going,” Fields
The scenario, said Lt. Cmdr. Marivic occurred or was threatened, according to In addition to learning about PTSD, said.
Fields, director of Behavioral Health Patient the WebMD website. Byrnes said members also will explore ways Editor’s note: For more information about
Care Management at Kimbrough Ambula- Individuals with PTSD often experi- to better care for themselves. the Spouse PTSD Support Group, call Lt.
tory Center and a licensed social worker, is ence a wide range of symptoms includ- When the four weeks are over, the facili- Cmdr. Marivic Fields at 301-677-8870.
a classic symptom of service members with ing insomnia, lack of intimacy, isolation,
post-traumatic stress disorder. depression, anxiety, increased alcohol and
While many service members who are drug use (including prescription drugs),
diagnosed with the disorder undergo treat- and increased risky behaviors, such as reck-
ment at Kimbrough, Fields said there are less driving. Some people also experience
few resources on post for spouses who must problems in the workplace.
also cope with its challenges. Service members who are enrolled in
That is until now. ASAP for drug and alcohol issues may also
On Wednesday evening, the installation’s suffer from PTSD, Byrnes said.
first Spouse PTSD Support Group was Installation Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Sid A.
scheduled to meet at the Warrior in Transi- Taylor said some service members with
tion Soldier and Family Assistance Center PTSD may struggle with feelings of guilt
at 85th Medical Battalion Road. and shame.
The four-week support group will meet “If you were not able to save your buddy
March 14, 21 and 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. or know that your actions in combat may
It is open to spouses in all service branches have led to the loss of the life of others .. if
whose partner is diagnosed with PTSD, or you can’t reconcile that with yourself, those
is not receiving treatment for the disorder. feelings can continue and become a ghost
Spouses whose partners have experienced that leads to internal pain and confusion,”
traumatic events outside of military combat he said.
may also join the group. Spouses deal with the aftermath of such
Free child care is available for all par- trauma firsthand, said Byrnes.
ticipants. “If that service member does not talk to
The initiative is a collaboration between anyone and is still experiencing symptoms, photo courtesy of CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER I
Kimbrough, the Army Substance Abuse
Program and the installation’s Religious
the spouse is left to deal with it,” she said.
Partners have good intentions and want Happy ‘b’ Day
Support Office. to help mates who struggle with PTSD, Audrey Rothstein, wife of Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein,
Janine Byrnes and Therese Boucher, Fields said, but they often don’t know reads “The Berenstains’ B Book” to a group of preschoolers Friday at Child
social workers with ASAP, and Fields are what to do and the conflict can become Development Center I to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ 108th birthday. The event
volunteer co-facilitators of the support overwhelming. was part of the National Education Association’s Read Across America
group. The support group provides a safe envi- Day, which promotes literacy among youths and honors Dr. Seuss.
Nomore worries.
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8. N ews
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By Jim Garamone techniques
American Forces Press Service and doctrine,
Army leaders are aware of the dif- he said.
ferences between field forces and gar- Odierno
rison forces and look to minimize the cited Fort
differences, the Army chief of staff Benning, Ga.,
said Feb. 21. as another
Gen. Raymond T. Odierno told the example of a
Defense Writers Group that he wants venue to host
T P  to ensure that Soldiers “stay excited” these officers
AP about being in the Army, and is look- and NCOs.
ing at ways to do that. In the past,
 H “What I’m trying to do is excite our “we always
young men and women about develop- had small
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GRAND OPENING us all develop what the Army is going NCOs — and that has gone away,” he
SPECIALS! to look like and how we might fight in said. “We want to reinvigorate that
the future.” and put officers and NCOs in those
Garage townhomes Over the course of 10 years of war, places.”
from the $300’s!* younger Soldiers have assumed a great If leaders decide the Army does not
deal of responsibility in Iraq and need to shrink as much as now planned,
Immediate Delivery Afghanistan, Odierno said. Yet when then these officers and NCOs would be
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he said, they often find multiple levels and brigades, Odierno said.
•Off Rtes. 295 175 of supervision where there was just The general said he does not want
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• Upscale Community
As the Army drops in numbers, changes. The Army will drop to about
• Oversized 2-Car Rear Garages
Odierno said, the new budget looks to 480,000 Soldiers by the end of 2017.
• Brick Fronts • Security System
• 3 finished levels • 10 x 18 Deck
build “reversibility” into the service. Odierno said this measured, careful
• Low Maintenance Lifestyle
This means the service will retain more and slow drop will allow the service to
officers and noncommissioned officers take advantage of natural attrition.
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“We significantly reduced that over would have been asked to stay before,
the last seven to eight years to fill the to leave,” he said. “But that’s going to
ranks for Iraq and Afghanistan,” said be limited, in my view.”
Odierno, noting that civilians and Soldiers at all levels have a great
contractors filled those jobs at the deal of combat experience and knowl-
command. edge, Odierno said.
The general told the writers he wants “We have a great Army, and I want
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10 SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

9. N ews
AWG Soldier, wife attend White House dinner
By Maj. Sonise Lumbaca, backgrounds and ranks. Joe Biden, Secretary of Defense Leon
Public Affairs Office “[The service members in attendance] Panetta, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of
Asymmetric Warfare Group were chosen specifically to represent Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey and Army
One of Fort Meade’s own was among our comrades,” said Tomlin, a native of Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno.
78 service members invited to attend a Barkhamsted, Conn. “And, I am proud “The president’s and Secretary Panet-
dinner at the White House hosted Feb. to represent [Soldiers from the units I ta’s speeches highlighted their respect
29 by President Barack Obama and First have served with] and other Soldiers from for service members and their families,”
Lady Michelle Obama. Connecticut.” Tomlin said.
Master Sgt. William Tomlin III, an Many of the guests have had multiple All who spoke during the evening
operational advisor for the Asymmetric deployments to Iraq. expressed their gratitude, thanking ser-
Warfare Group at Fort Meade, was select- Tomlin served three tours in Iraq while vice members and their families for their
ed to represent and attend the dinner, assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. duty, dedication, sacrifices and service to
which recognized the significant contribu- He is the recipient of the Silver Star, a the nation.
tions of all service members who served in medal he was awarded for acts of valor “The highlight of the event was sitting
Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation while serving in Afghanistan in 2007. A with General Odierno,” Tomlin said.
New Dawn. platoon sergeant at the time serving with Tomlin and the general talked for a
“The whole experience was a lot more the 508th Infantry Battalion, Tomlin was good portion of the evening on subjects
Photo courtesy U.S. Army
than we expected,” said Tomlin, who on his fourth tour of duty, and second in that included his past military experience
attended the dinner with his wife, Sarah. Afghanistan. and his current assignment with AWG. Master Sgt. William Tomlin III, an
The couple had never attended an event The Silver Star was presented to him “It was great to be honored and hum- operational advisor assigned to the
of this magnitude. by then-President George Bush at a cer- bling to be in the presence of so many Asymmetric Warfare Group at Fort Meade,
“The president and Mrs. Obama were emony on May 22, 2008 at Fort Bragg, great people,” Tomlin said. “Sarah and I was selected along with 77 other service
great hosts,” Sarah Tomlin said. N.C. are honored to have been invited to the members to attend a White House dinner
Dinner guests included service mem- In addition to the president and first White House. This will serve as a high honoring Iraq war veterans. Tomlin served
bers and their families from across the lady, guest speakers and other attendees point in our lives, and a memory that we three tours in Iraq while serving with the
nation, from all services, and from diverse at the dinner included Vice President will share with others.” 82nd Airborne Division.
Fort Meade MARC Shuttle Bus Schedule
train ARRIVES Train Arrives
AT MARC FROM AT MARC FROM DEPARTS Arrives AT Arrives at ARRIVES AT ARRIVES AT Arrives AT
Union Station PENN STATION ODENTON MARC adjudication kimbrough post theater DISA DMA
6:18 A.M. 5:50/6:18 A.M. 6:22 A.M. 6:32 A.M. 6:35 A.M. 6:38 A.M. 6:43 A.M. 6:48 A.M.
6:42 A.M. 6:41 A.M. 6:47 A.M. 6:57 A.M. 7:00 A.M. 7:03 A.M. 7:08 A.M. 7:13 A.M.
7 A.M. 6:53 A.M. 7:05 A.M. 7:15 A.M. 7:19 A.M. 7:23 A.M. 7:30 A.M. 7:35 A.M.
7:37 a.m. 7:13/7:28/7:42 a.m. 7:42 a.m. 7:52 a.m. 7:55 a.m. 8:00 A.M. 8:05 a.m. 8:10 a.m.
8:16 A.M. 8:05 A.M. 8:20 A.M. 8:30 A.M. 8:34 A.M. 8:38 A.M. 8:43 A.M. 8:48 A.M.
8:47 A.M. 8:30 A.M. 8:52 A.M. 9:02 A.M. 9:05 A.M. 9:08 A.M. 9:13 A.M. 9:18 A.M.
train departs train departs
DEPARTS DEPARTS DEPARTS DEPARTS DEPARTS ARRIVES AT MARC For MARC For
DMA DISA POST THEATER KIMBROUGH ADJUDICATION ODENTON MARC Union Station penn Station
2:30 p.M. 2:35 p.M. 2:40 P.M. 2:43 P.M. 2:46 P.M. 2:55 P.M. 3:00 P.M. 3:51 P.M.
3:20 p.M. 3:30 p.M. 3:35 p.M. 3:37 p.M. 3:40 p.M. 3:50 p.M. 4:09 p.M. -
4 p.M. 4:10 p.M. 4:15 P.M. 4:20 P.M. 4:25 P.M. 4:32 P.M. 4:37 P.M. 4:39/4:56 P.M.
4:40 p.m. 4:45 p.m. 4:50 P.M. 4:53 P.M. 4:56 P.M. 5:05 P.M. 5:11 P.M. 5:09/5:35 P.M.
5:05 p.M. 5:10 p.M. 5:15 p.m. 5:18 p.m. 5:21 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:40 p.m. 5:55 p.m.
6:00 p.M. 6:10 p.M. 6:15 p.M. 6:18 p.M. 6:21 p.M. 6:30 p.M. 6:47 p.M. 6:18/6:48 p.M.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 8, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

10. N ews
Youth Job Fair draws eager young job-seekers
By Lisa R. Rhodes and other options, including full- and part-
Staff Writer time jobs, internships, training programs and
David Jones was not disappointed when volunteer opportunities.
he held on-site interviews at the installation’s The job fair was a collaboration between
Youth Job Fair on March 1. the Employment Readiness Program at
“I was very impressed,” said Jones, general Army Community Service; Child, Youth and
manager at Devcon Security, a security sys- School Services; the Maryland Department
tems company based in Edgewood. of Labor, Licensing and Regulation; Anne
Thirty candidates applied for full-time Arundel One-Stop; Anne Arundel Work-
and independent contractor sales positions. force Development Corporation; and the
“Many kids were hungry for work,” Jones Fleet and Family Support Center at ACS.
said. Vikki Torrence, Employment Readiness
About 500 youths age 16 to 21 partici- Program Manager at ACS, invited Dev-
pated in the annual event at McGill Training con Security, Weiss Supermarket and other
Center. employers to hold on-site interviews at the
More than 45 businesses, educational insti- job fair.
tutions, military recruiters, federal agencies “It’s a value-added benefit to the exhibi-
and nonprofit organizations were exhibitors. tors and gives an opportunity to the youths
Participants included the Air Force, National to present themselves,” Torrence said. “It was
Security Agency, Maryland Transportation the first time we did it. It seems like it was a
Authority Police, Towson University, Ameri- win-win.”
can Pool, Safeway, Cinemark Egyptian 24 Of the 30 youths who were interviewed by
Theaters, Camp Fire USA and the Volunteer Devcon Security, four are prospective inde-
Center for Anne Arundel County. pendent contractors and two are prospective
Exhibitors offered several employment full-time employees, pending the review and
photos by nate pesce
TOP: Helena Ota, a recruiter at Red Arch Solutions, a software engineering company
in Columbia, speaks to a group of young people at the annual Youth Job Fair at McGill
Training Center.
ABOVE: Christian Summers, 21, of Millersville, fills out a job application for the Cinemark
Egyptian 24 Theater at Anne Arundel Mall during the Youth Job Fair. Devcon Security and
Weiss Supermarkets held on-site interviews at the job fair for prospective candidates.
RIGHT: About 500 teens and young adults ages 16 to 21 take part in Fort Meade’s annual
Youth Job Fair on March 1 at McGill Training Center. Co-sponsored by the Employment
Readiness Program at Army Community Service and other post and off-post organizations,
the event provided opportunities to interact with prospective employers, learn resume and
interview tips, and sign up for volunteer work.
12 SOUNDOFF! March 8, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

11. processing of their paper work. For a second year, Lexus Johnson, a junior
In addition to on-site interviews, the job at Arundel High School, came to the fair to
fair also offered seminars in resume prepara- sign up as a lifeguard at U.S. Aquatics, a pool
tion and interviewing techniques. management company in Beltsville.
Torrence said the goal of the job fair is “I like keeping kids safe,” the 16-year-old
to “provide youth with the opportunity to said. “I like being a lifeguard. I don’t want
showcase their talent” and help employers them to get hurt.”
find qualified candidates for summer or Kevin Johnston, a human resources spe-
ongoing full-time or part-time employment. cialist at the Defense Media Activity, said
Labor statistics show that youths need the agency is offering paid full-time and
all the help they can get in landing a job. part-time internships for youths in areas
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ranging from media to human resources and
23.2 percent of teens nationwide were unem- finance.
ployed as of last month. “So far, the young people we’ve seen have
“Jobs that have traditionally gone to a come prepared and seem willing to learn,”
younger population have been taken by the Johnston said.
number of adults who are out of work and Airman 1st Class Anthony Marquez, 19,
by graduating college students,” Torrence of the Air Force National Guard, traveled
said. “We wanted to provide a little ray of from Hanover, Pa., to find a full-time techni-
sunshine for young people.” cal job at the fair.
Allen Gordon, a senior studying graphic A client systems technician, Marquez said
design at Anne Arundel Community College, there aren’t many technical jobs available
said he attended the fair to “seek out future where he lives.
Michael Wood of the Student Company, U.S. Army Signal School Detachment
opportunities.” “They want someone with years of experi-
distributes information brochures to participants at the installation’s Youth Job Fair
Although he interviewed with the NSA, ence or a college degree, which I don’t have
on March 1. The event featured more than 45 exhibitors.
Gordon said he plans to take the Armed yet,” he said.
Services Vocational Aptitude Battery for But as he planned to interview with the
BELOW: Special Agent Don Basillo of the U.S. Secret Service discusses job
entrance to the Navy to become a photojour- NSA and the U.S. Secret Service, Marquez
opportunities with Emily Guenther, 17, a student at Meade High School, and her
nalist or graphic designer. said he is optimistic.
mother, Michele Guenther.
“It’s a job I’ll be able to keep,” he said. “I think I’m going to do OK,” he said.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 8, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 13