Fort Meade SoundOff for May 31, 2012

1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 22 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
May 31, 2012
sh w of
appreciation
photo by steve ruark
The Military District of Washington Armed Forces Color Guard stands in the outfield for the National Anthem, as nine Fort Meade service members join the Baltimore Orioles
starting lineup on the field at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Sunday for the team’s Military Appreciation Day. Fort Meade participated in pregame events including throwing
the opening pitch. For more, see Pages 12-13.
scholarly safety first UPCOMING EVENTS
ESC honors Annual post expo Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p USO Military Appreciation Barbecue - Freedom Center Barracks
.m.:
Meade youth for takes hands-on Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.: Women’s Health Fair - Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center
approach to wellness Wednesday & June 7, 5-6:30 p.m.: “Fort Meade’s Got Talent” Auditions - McGill
education efforts
June 9, 9 a.m.: Armed Forces Kids Run - 2234 Huber Road parking lot
page 10 page 3 June 14, 7:30 a.m.: Army Birthday/Flag Day Breakfast - Club Meade

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Managing stress
´
Editorial Staff Guaranteed circulation:
Garrison Commander 11,285
Col. Edward C. Rothstein
adds balance to life
Garrison Command
Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith
Public Affairs Officer
Chad T. Jones
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil
Chief, Command Information
Philip H. Jones
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil What is your stress level? are outside our
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer I’m asking because everyone responds dif- normal behav-
Rona S. Hirsch ferently to stress. ior pattern that
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes For example, you have four minutes to the services
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz leave for the airport and you cannot find of a mental
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis your wallet. Most people would describe this health profes-
Supple­mental photography provided as a stressful situation. Or, your electric bill sional may be
by Patuxent Publishing Co. arrived in the mail today and it was $140 required.
higher than you expected. I want you to
Advertising
At Fort Meade, operational tempo and know that there
General Inquiries 410-332-6300 deployments are stressors we deal with daily. are a variety of
Allison Thompson Stress can be defined as anything that dis- behavior health COL. Edward c.
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com rupts the balance in your life. It is anything resources avail- Rothstein
Michele Griesbauer Garrison Commander
that threatens us, prods us, scares us, worries able for active
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com us or thrills us. According to behavior and duty, Reserve, civilian employees and family
medical experts, stress is a normal psycho- members.
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com.
logical and physical reaction to positive or Active-duty military personnel are encour-
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through negative situations in your life. aged to seek clinical services of the Army
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Stress itself is not abnormal or bad. What’s Substance Abuse Program, which works in
important is how you deal with stress. close liaison with Behavioral Health Care Ser-
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the When you have a tough time adjusting to vice and other support programs to address
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary a stressful change and you find it difficult to a variety of personal and substance abuse
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. go about your daily routine, you may develop issues.
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the an adjustment disorder. An adjustment dis- Confidential counseling is available to civil-
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, order is a type of stress-related mental illness ian personnel through the Civilian Counseling
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. that can affect your feelings, thoughts and Services program. The CCS also provides
behavior. counseling, mediation and referral services to
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage Stress gets a bad rap all the time. How family members, Department of Army civil-
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser,
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser many times have you heard that stress makes ians and retirees.
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. you fat, ruins your skin or is bad for your Last week Fort Meade kicked off its annual
heart? 101 Critical Days of Summer. Our goal is
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department Stress can also be good for you - provided to reduce or eliminate tragic loss of life and
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are you learn to use it properly and understand injury and to help everyone realize that safety
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of
that you are in control. Stress can be a is personal for service members, civilian work-
the Army of the products or services advertised. motivational tool that helps us get things ers and family members during summertime.
done, burn more calories and discover hidden Managing stress and making sure you are
reserves of energy we never knew we had. (mentally) headed in the right direction is just
Stress becomes a problem when we have too one of the areas I want to remind everyone
www.ftmeade.army.mil much of it, and we simply don’t know what to not to lose focus on as we think about safety
do about it or how to manage it. this summer.
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd Stress also has been associated with suicidal Speaking of stress and summertime, let’s
and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil. behavior. There are often warning signs that also be mindful of heat stress and other sum-
accentuate someone is under too much stress: mer-related safety issues. We just experienced
dramatic mood changes, feelings of hopeless- our first heat wave of the summer this past
ness and despair, increase in use of alcohol or weekend.
Co n t e n t s other drugs, or risk-taking behavior.
The symptoms of stress can be as simple
Heat stress occurs when the body cannot
cool itself enough to maintain a healthy
as being sad, worrying, or having difficulty temperature. Overexertion in hot weather can
News.............................. 3 Classified.............................. 20 concentrating on normal activities. These increase your risk of heat stress.
symptoms take on a more heightened level of Let’s all take whatever steps are necessary
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Sports................................... 14 concern when the signs include verbal threats to find balance and manage stress in our lives.
to hurt someone and thoughts of suicide. Let’s be sure we are making the right decision
Community.................. 16 Movies.................................. 19 It is when these life-threatening thoughts to keep as safe as possible this summer.
SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
Interactive activities highlight annual post safety expo
By Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
The heat and humidity of a late
spring day did not prevent 3,500 people
from attending the installation’s annual
Safety, Health and Wellness Expo on
May 24.
The four-hour event, sponsored by
the Installation Safety Office, was held
at the Pavilion.
“Safety is essential,” said Kirk Fech-
ter, director of the Installation Safety
Office. “We’re pleased we can offer
something for all the service branches,
to set aside one day to point out that
safety is important.”
More than 45 organizations and busi-
nesses on and off post attended the
event to provide information about a
wide range of topics including healthy
eating, workplace safety, stress manage-
ment and child passenger safety.
The event also featured simulations to
encourage safe vehicle and motorcycle
driving and how to properly extinguish
a mock fire. Free blood pressure and
photos by noah scialom
body mass index screenings also were
offered. Mark T. Oakley, of the Fort Meade Fire Department, greets 3-year-old Brian Volochenko as he sits in a child passenger safety seat
“Our goal this year was to extend the during the installation’s annual Safety, Health and Wellness Expo. The four-hour event featured interactive activities to encourage
event by adding more interactive activi- vehicle and motorcycle safety, as well as free blood pressure and body fat percentage screenings.
ties, not just the educational brochures,
but hands-on demonstrations to have RIGHT: Pfc. Alexander Davison, 781st Military Intelligence Battalion, extinguishes a mock fire during the Safety, Health and
people get more involved.” said Jen- Wellness Expo sponsored May 24 at the Pavilion by the Installation Safety Office.
elle Ferguson, occupational safety and
health specialist. presented a drunk driving simulator that aging and getting heavier, blood pres- and chemical-resistant clothing.
Petty Officer 1st Class Wendy Valdez is part of the National Arrive Alive sure goes up.” Connie Schulthesis, vice president of
of Naval Information Operations Com- Tour. Twigg said overall, the people she the Chesapeake Region Safety Council
mand Maryland said she the event was Spc. Jan Seda, 741 Military Intelli- screened had blood pressure readings in in Baltimore, distributed brochures on
enlightening. gence Battalion, took a “drive” and had the normal range. family safety.
“I think it’s important for younger an unfortunate incident. “Not bad. Nothing very elevated,” “We’re here to educate people about
Sailors and Soldiers,” she said. “Some- “I hit a kid walking in the crosswalk,” she said. safety and health so people can be safe
times, they don’t know safety proce- Seda said of the simulated situation. “I Spc. Julian YBara, 742nd Military while they do their job,” she said.
dures. It makes them think about their thought I’d go to jail or something. That Intelligence Battalion, had his body fat Julie Yates, lifeskills educator and
judgment.” made it so real.” percentage measured. Family Employment Program manager
Valdez was one of the many service Seda said although he’s been driving “It was interesting,” he said. “I was for the Fleet Family Support Center,
members learned how to properly ride for seven years, the experience was an curious about how high my body fat distributed pamphlets on how to reduce
a motorcycle using the SMART Train- eye-opener. percentage was. It’s in the healthy range stress and prevent suicide.
er, a mobile classroom and simulator “You get the feel about drunk driv- — that’s good news.” “We want service members to take
developed by the Maryland Motorcycle ing. I felt a little bit out of control,” YBara said the expo was worthwhile. care of themselves, physically and emo-
Safety Program. he said. “It’s a good experience. You “I like it,” he said. “There are a lot of tionally,” Yates said. “It’s important to
Henry Winkour, a contractor with get conscious about not drinking and things you can be aware of. There’s a lot get this information and apply it.”
the program, said people who use the driving.” of information to learn about.” Beverly Maliner, chief of Preventive
simulator learn how to operate a motor- Medical personnel from the Occupa- Ron Fratantoni, a market manager Medicine at Kimbrough, said the expo
cycle’s controls, including how to shift tional Health department at Kimbrough for Kimberly-Clark Professional, said can make a difference in the lives of
gears, apply pressure to the throttle, or Ambulatory Care Center screened par- the company appreciates the sacrifice of service members.
brakes, and how to navigate the road. ticipants for high blood pressure and service members and wanted to support “They’ve got the right group here
“Rather than put someone on the tracked their weight, body mass index the event. - mostly younger service members,”
road and say ‘good luck,’ they can learn and body fat percentage. “We are showing products to keep Maliner said. “If they pick up a lesson
where the controls are and how they “High blood pressure is a silent killer,” them safe,” Fratantoni said, as he dis- and take it out with them, it lasts for a
work,” Winkour said. said Jan Twigg, an occupational health played a collection of safety glasses, lifetime. If they change their behavior,
The Maryland Highway Safety Office registered nurse. “With the population cut-resistant gloves and high-visibility then the expo is worth it.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 31, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Compassionate Allowances conditions Community
expedites decisions for the disabled Crime Watch
By Wendy Poulson
Social Security Manager, Glen Burnie Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
In April, Social Security announced 52 new Com-
passionate Allowances conditions to the growing list May 21, Attempted larceny of not be located.
of severe medical conditions that qualify for expe- private property: Two unknown
dited medical decisions. juveniles removed an unse- May 26, Shoplifting: AAFES
The new conditions include many neurological cured and unattended bicycle loss-prevention personnel
disorders, cancers and rare diseases. from a porch and attempted observed the subject conceal
The Compassionate Allowances initiative is a to flee. The victim observed a bracelet under her purse and
way of quickly identifying diseases and other medi- the incident and shouted at the exit the Exchange without ren-
cal conditions that invariably qualify as “disabled” juveniles, causing them to drop dering proper payment.
the bicycle and flee the area.
based on minimal medical information. Compas-
sionate Allowances allow Social Security to quickly May 27, Driving with tires in unsafe
identify the most obviously disabled individuals for May 22, Simple assault - consummated operating condition, driving vehicle
allowances based on objective medical information by a battery: The Directorate of Emer- while under the influence of alcohol,
gency Services was notified of a possi-
that we can obtain quickly. ble domestic assault. An investigation
driving with suspended registration:
The announcement of 52 new conditions, effective While on routine patrol, an officer
revealed that two individuals entered conducted a traffic stop for a sub-
in August, will increase the total number of Com- into a verbal altercation that turned
passionate Allowances conditions to 165. That list ject driving on a flat front tire. An
physical when the subject forcefully investigation revealed that the subject
continues to grow as Social Security, the National Institutes of Health and a number of patient pushed his girlfriend to the ground. was suspected of driving under the
organizations help identify new conditions that clearly warrant quick approvals. influence of alcohol. The driver was
“Social Security will continue to work with the medical community and patient organiza- May 25, Larceny of private property: administered a series of standardized
tions to add more conditions,” Astrue said. “With our Compassionate Allowances program, Unknown person(s) entered a vehicle, field sobriety tests, which he failed. He
we quickly approved disability benefits for nearly 61,000 people with severe disabilities in the which was unsecured and unattended, submitted to a breath test for alcohol
past fiscal year, and nearly 173,000 applications since the program began.” and removed a debit card, credit cards, that resulted in a blood alcohol con-
Social Security develops the list of Compassionate Allowances conditions from information AAA card and other documents. tent of .14 percent.
received at public outreach hearings, comments received from the disability community, a coun-
sel of medical and scientific experts, and research with the National Institutes of Health. May 25, Larceny of private prop- May 27, Larceny of government prop-
Social Security also considers conditions most likely to meet its definition of disability. erty: The victim left her cart in the erty: The unit representative reported
For more information on the Compassionate Allowances initiative, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/com- Exchange with her purse containing that an unknown individual removed
passionateallowances. various unattended items. When she the identification sign outside the
returned, the cart was gone and could company area.
AER campaign
Have you noticed an issue on post
surpasses
Trouble
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail.
$80,000 goal
Ticket mil. Each week, Soundoff! will
address issues identified on post
and describe what is being done to
The Fort Meade Army Emergency
Relief campaign has collected
$105,373.03 as of Wednesday,
solve them. 131 percent of its $80,000 goal.
Issue: Plan: Status:
Youth Services Sports Renovate the Youth Services Actual use of fields is Chaplain’s Word
Complex needs renovations Sports Complex expected to be this fall
after the grass matures KNOW THE PLANS
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares
the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm
McGill Training Center Install a new HVAC Survey work has begun; full
install set for completion
you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
HVAC is inoperative
(except in the ballroom) September 2012; portable A/C — Jeremiah 29:11
units being used in classrooms
SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
long lost
letters
Mike Bradford, a Melwood
employee, hands 11 letters and
greeting cards that maintenance
workers found in the wall of a
World War II-era building to Fort
Meade Museum exhibit special-
ist Barbara Taylor on May 24.
The letters, which were post-
marked in the early 1940s, were
written to Soldiers stationed at
Fort Meade who were preparing
to deploy to Europe. The Fort
Meade Museum is researching
the letters with hopes of possibly
returning the letters to the fami-
lies of the World War II Soldiers.
See the full story in next week’s
Soundoff!
photo by Marine pvt. colby smith
WE ARE MISSION READY
Readiness is critical to you. Select a university that is prepared to meet
your needs. One with a rich heritage of military support, one that offers
a variety of quality academic programs, one that can travel with you
around the world, and one that understands the needs of students who
wear the uniform.
Educate the mind to think, the heart to feel, the body to act.
- TROY Motto 1887
“One of the Top Universities for Troops...” - Military Times
“Ranked Among Top Schools in the Nation” - Forbes Magazine
In class • Online • Within reach • troy.edu • Find us on:
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 31, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

6. N ews
Soldiers share benefits of military service at Career Day
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
Leave it to a kindergartener to ask a
Soldier if he has ever traveled to space.
That was one of the questions a class
of kindergarten students asked Spc.
Ignacio Quiroz, a joint operations duty
officer at U.S. Cyber Command, during
his talk on Career Day on May 25.
Quiroz was one of four Fort Meade
service members who spoke about their
careers in the military to students at
Scotchtown Hills Elementary School
in Laurel.
Renee Cort-Sutton, the school’s guid-
ance counselor, said the annual event is
a requirement for all Prince George’s
County public schools.
The Fort Meade service members
joined service members from Fort Bel-
voir, Va., and professionals from local
businesses and organizations who vol-
unteered to participate.
“I want children to know that mili-
tary service can lead them to a future
career,” Cort-Sutton said. “The people
who participated were educated by the
military. Students need to know that
you can go to a university, commu-
nity college or serve your country and
receive an education.”
In his presentation to the kinder-
garten class, Quiroz said that when
he began his Army career, he studied
electronics and eventually was deployed
to Iraq, where he worked with Iraqi
prisoners.
But the children were most interested
in how he has ridden in a black hawk
helicopter multiple times.
“I’ve done Career Days in the past,” Staff Sgt. Timothy Matz, an Army combat medic and noncommissioned officer in charge of the Red Clinic at Kimbrough
Quiroz said. “It’s fun telling children Ambulatory Care Center, shows his medical equipment to Calvin Chirino, 10, a fourth-grader at Scotchtown Hills Elementary
what I do and the experiences I’ve had. School in Laurel. Matz was one of four Fort Meade Soldiers who participated in the school’s Career Day on May 25.
I know they’re still young, but I want to
tell them about the opportunities that to shoot a fully automated weapon to insight, give them an introduction to even inspected new Army child care
come with being in the military and that how to conduct emergency medical who works in the Army,” Matz said. centers.
I’ve traveled around the world.” techniques. “And I like to talk to kids.” The students were captivated by his
Staff Sgt. Timothy Matz, an Army “We get training on the most recent Capt. Rausham Salaam, an Occupa- work equipment - a sound level meter
combat medic and noncommissioned techniques and illnesses,” Matz said. tional Health Science Division project and an air sampling pump.
officer in charge of the Red Clinic at Nine-year-old Markos Smith, who manager for the Public Health Com- Salaam said that although he can
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, plans to be a football player when he mand-Region North, said he wanted work as much as 16 to 21 hours a day,
showed a class of fourth-graders the grows up, recognized the difficulties of to share his passion about his job and he loves his job.
kind of medical equipment he used serving as a medic. inspire students to pursue a career in “I’ve traveled all over the world,” he
while caring for Soldiers in Iraq. “I think it was amazing what he science, math or technology. said, noting that in the past two years
“I brought all kinds of tools,” Matz does,” Marko said. “I think being a “I want them to understand that if he has visited Korea, Japan, Germany,
said. “When somebody is hurt or sick, I combat medic is a lot of work. They go they have an interest in science or math, Iraq and Kuwait.
go out and take care of them.” through a lot of training.” there are different opportunities that Sarah Fakaye, 11, said she was
Matz explained the rigorous training Matz, whose 10-year-old daughter can open up for them in the future,” impressed by Salaam’s presentation.
requirements for a combat medic — 10 and 7-year-old son attend the school, he said. “I learned that you can use a lot of
weeks of basic training and 16 weeks said he hopes the students he spoke to Salaam told his class of sixth-graders tools to figure out sound,” Sarah said.
of advanced individual medical train- will consider the Army as a career. how he evaluates the safety of work- “I liked it. I want to be in the Army. I
ing — learning everything from how “I wanted to give the kids a different places for civilian employees and has want to take care of people.”
SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

7. N ews
Port Discovery reaches
out to military families
By Lisa R. Rhodes Studio Workshop, an art studio where children
Staff Writer express their creativity; Wonders of Water, an
Last fall Michele Whelley, a member of the exhibit that helps children understand human
board of directors for the Port Discovery Chil- interactions with water; and Tiny’s Diner,
dren’s Museum in Baltimore, met Garrison a 1950s-style diner where youngsters can
Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein and “cook” and serve food to their parents.
suggested that the museum and Fort Meade A highlight is KidsWorks, a three-story
form a partnership to support recreational urban tree house for children to climb, crawl
activities for military families. and jump. The treehouse includes rope bridges,
Whelley said she was “impressed with a climbing wall, tumbling mat and two-story
the colonel’s commitment to reach out to slide.
Baltimore City to forge partnerships with the Winner said the museum also offers several
people who live and work at Fort Meade.” activities that may interest military families.
Michelle Winner, vice president of market- For example, Discovery Days are offered
ing for the museum, said the partnership is a for four days in May and in November, with
great opportunity for the museum to honor one day dedicated to children with autism.
service members and their families for their The activity begins on the second Tuesday
sacrifice. of the month and runs for four consecutive
“Port Discovery Children’s Museum days, culminating in a “Be A Part of the Art”
believes that all children should have the festival on Friday.
opportunity to imagine, learn, play and grow During Discovery Days, the museum reduces
in a safe and nurturing environment,” Winner the lighting and exhibit sounds “to help create a
said. “We understand how difficult it may be calmer, softer environment,” Winner said.
for children who have a parent, caregiver or For the event, the museum does not book
family member who is deployed or has been mainstream school groups, although the gen-
wounded in combat, and we are committed eral public may attend.
to providing our military families with a joyful All of the museum’s exhibits during Dis-
and happy experience.” covery Days are available to children attending
The museum recently offered Salute To the event.
Troops, a promotion for active-duty service Community partners such as the Ken-
members and veterans with valid military nedy Krieger Institute, which is dedicated to
identification who received free admission to improving the lives of children with pediatric
the museum for themselves and a guest, plus a developmental disabilities, and Johns Hopkins
10 percent discount at the museum’s gift shop. University offer programs for children and
The promotion began March 1 and ended resources for parents.
Monday. All eligible Maryland school students are
The museum now offers a $2 discount off admitted at no charge during Discovery Days.
the general admission price of $13.95 for all Terrific Tuesdays are designed to integrate
service members and their family members. school groups with special needs children and
According to Forbes Magazine, Port Dis- mainstream school groups in an inclusive
covery is one of the country’s top 12 children’s environment. The museum’s programs can
museums out of about 325. be adjusted to accommodate special needs
More than 250,000 people visit Port Dis- children.
covery each year, primarily from Maryland, Every Friday in September, the museum
Washington, D.C., Virginia and Pennsylvania. features special science programs that home-
The museum’s mission is to connect pur- schooled children can enjoy. The programs
poseful play and learning for children from align with the state of Maryland’s education
birth to age 10, according to its website. curriculum, which is outlined in the museum’s
Jennifer Bergantz, the museum’s education educators guide. Home-school parents can
and community enrichment liaison, said the download the guide on the museum’s website.
museum encourages exploration, problem- The museum, which regularly posts new
solving skills and creativity in youngsters. activities and exhibits on the Fort Meade
Port Discovery features a wide range of Facebook page, plans to offer another Salute
exhibits and activities including Adventure To Troops promotion in the fall.
Expeditions, which takes children to Egypt in “We’re very passionate about supporting
the 1920s to decipher hieroglyphics and find the military,” Winner said.
clues to locate a pharaoh’s lost tomb; Miss For more information, visit the Port Dis-
Perception’s Mystery House, where children covery Children’s Museum website at www.
solve the case of the missing Baffeld family; portdiscovery.org.
SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

8. N ews
Enlisted Spouses Club awards annual scholarships
By Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
A Meade High School senior who has
volunteered to help the homeless is the
second recipient of the Enlisted Spouses
Club’s Evelyn Silva Scholarship Award of
Excellence.
Kinza Shah, 17, was presented the $2,000
scholarship at the club’s annual scholarship
award ceremony May 21 at Argonne Hills
Chapel Center.
“I feel very grateful,” Kinza said. “I feel
like hard work always pays off.”
The annual scholarship is named after
Evelyn Silva, the club’s volunteer coordina-
tor and a longtime member who has served
as president of the Thrift Shop Council.
The council oversees the Post Thrift Shop.
Proceeds from the shop benefit the ESC
scholarship fund and other club activities.
Eligibility requirements for the scholar-
ship included a minimum 3.0 grade point
average and a commitment to volunteer
service for more than a year.
In addition to the ESC scholarship, Kinza
also was awarded a matching $2,000 schol-
arship from the central Maryland chapter
of the Armed Forces Communications and
Electronics Association.
“I feel great, I’m so happy,” said Kinza’s
mother, Tasneem Shah, who attended the
event with Kinza’s older sister Sabrina, who
also received an ESC scholarship at the cer-
emony. “I was thinking Kinza was going to
get the scholarship and she did.”
Kinza, daughter of Sgt. 1st Class Abid
Shah, 20th Support Command at Aberdeen photo by Marine pvt. ronald brink
Proving Ground, was a volunteer for three
years with Happy Helpers for the Homeless, Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith and Evelyn Silva, volunteer
a community service organization at Meade coordinator for the Enlisted Spouses Club, congratulate Kinza Shah, 17, a Meade High School senior, as the recipient of the ESC’s
High School. Evelyn Silva Scholarship For Excellence on May 21 at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.
“I think its important to help the home-
less, to help those who are less fortunate,” Rothstein, who helped to present the schol- In addition to the Evelyn Silva Schol- Two scholarship winners, Celeste Del-
said Kinza, who plans to study speech arships, commended the students for their arship, the ESC awarded eight students gado and Sophie Gaines, were unable to
therapy at Towson University. hard work. He suggested that they “step a $1,500 scholarship based on service in attend the ceremony, but were represented
Before the ceremony, members of Fort back and give yourself a pat on the back for school, church and community, as well as by their parents.
Meade’s Cub Scout Pack 377 presented your accomplishments.” participation in sports. Delgado, 19, whose father is Master Sgt.
the colors. Lauren Watt, an ESC member, “You’re a part of the Team Meade com- The recipients were: Sabrina Shah, 21, Carlos Delgado, 7th Intelligence Squadron,
sang the National Anthem. Chaplain (Maj.) munity,” Rothstein said. “You represent us a psychology and media/communications is a sophomore at Anne Arundel Commu-
Dean Darroux, director of pastoral minis- so well. ... You make the garrison and Team major at the University of Baltimore; Annal- nity College studying math.
tries, gave the invocation. Meade very proud.” isa Irby, 18, a senior at Meade High School, Gaines, 20, whose father is retired Sgt.
Patricia Baker, incoming ESC president, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Charles whose father is Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jon- 1st Class Derreck Gaines, is a sophomore at
said in her opening remarks that the ESC E. Smith, attended the ceremony with his athan Irby; Emily Moesner, 18, a senior at Drexel University in Philadelphia studying
values community, hard work and educa- wife, Audrey, an advisor to the club. He said Archbishop Spaulding High School whose architectural engineering and civil engineer-
tion. the ESC scholarships are very important, father is Air Force Lt. Col. John Moesner; ing.
“We are here tonight to recognize and particularly in today’s economy. Otis Duffie 18, a hotel management major Before the ceremony ended, Susan Ren-
honor nine young adults who have risen “With the cost of education being so at Johnson and Wales University in Char- ninger, a member of the ESC scholarship
above the challenges of being a ‘military expensive, many students and parents take lotte, N.C., whose father is retired Air Force committee, wished the students well in their
brat’ to become strong examples in their out loans to pay for college, or resort to other Master Sgt. Otis Duffie; and Jessica Mineart, future endeavors.
community of volunteerism and education,” measures,” Smith said. “Scholarships are a 19, a math major at Howard Community “We know our young adults are a great
she said. great way to cover part, or sometimes even College whose father is retired Sgt. 1st Class investment,” she said. “If we invest well, we’ll
Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. all, of the cost of a college education.” Alvin Mineart. get a good return.”
10 SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

9. N ews
On a positive note
Soldiers use music to inspire social change in Baltimore city youth
Story and photo by Jonathan Agee
U.S. Army Field Band
The program is called OrchKids, a year-
round, school music program that provides
music education, at no cost, to underserved
students in Baltimore.
OrchKids was inspired by El Sistema,
a Venezuelan program that for the past 40
years has transformed the lives of hundreds
of thousands of underprivileged children
in the country.
Last week, Soldier-musicians from the
U.S. Army Field Band joined OrchKids for
a five-day workshop at Lockerman Bundy U.S Army Field Band
Elementary School. clarinetist Sgt. 1st
Staff Sgt. Katayoon Hodjati, leader of Class Michael Sears
the Woodwind Quintet, said the program plays alongside
was a perfect match for her skills and the Tony Davis, a third-
values of the Army Field Band. grade clarinetist,
“I have quite a bit of teaching experi- and Nikiya Monroe,
ence, so I feel qualified to do this in addi- a fourth-grade
tion to the performing I do as part of the clarinetist, during a
Field Band,” Hodjati said. “And so this for weeklong workshop
me is putting together everything I do: the in which members
performing, the teaching, being part of the of the Army Field
Field Band. I can roll it all into one and Band provided
have an impact locally, which is really dif- demonstrations and
ferent than what we do when we tour.” lessons to OrchKids
Aside from premier musicians working in Baltimore.
with the students, two main factors con-
tribute to the success of OrchKids, said to budget cuts and lack of funding. So Easily-digestible lessons like this made music to get more parents and guardians
Nick Skinner, OrchKids manager with the OrchKids fills the gap and opens doors for the Soldier-musicians of the Army Field involved in the children’s education.
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Baltimore City youth. Band a welcomed addition to the pro- OrchKids is performing a big com-
The first is using it as a vehicle for posi- For Skinner, music education is a right gram. munity concert on the night when parents
tive social change; the second is democratic not a privilege. He and his colleagues work OrchKids started in 2008 and has since come to pick up the report cards, said Skin-
access to the arts. hard to bring students a level of music grown exponentially with new students ner. Before initiating the concert, the school
“I like to think of the orchestra as a education that is inspiring. He often invites joining each year. Skinner plans to add a would typically hand out about 5 percent
metaphor for society, and how you have to guests such as the Woodwind Quintet to new grade each year and eventually work of the report cards to parents. Now, they
treat people and fit within a structure, and work with the youths and showcase all the with students throughout high school. By hand out upward of 80 percent.
how you have to be able to contribute posi- possibilities that exist through music. that time, he expects more student mentors Because of these concerts, every parent
tively to something — and that’s really all Hodjati has a talent when it comes to to help with the program as well. is going to come up to see their children
these elements that are involved in making working with OrchKids. She has fun, but “You take the student that knows two perform, said Skinner.
music with people,” Skinner said. also instructs in a way that students can notes, and he teaches the kid that knows “So they come in and they have to get
“It’s just something that naturally hap- relate to. While working with the elemen- one note and so on and so forth,” Skin- the report card, and they have to talk to
pens. And that is where the social change tary students, Hodjati used an example of ner said. “Even though they may not be their teachers because their report card is
comes from — not to mention, of course, making a chocolate chip cookie to relate teachers, they can tell someone how to put their ticket into the show,” Skinner said.
just being here.” what the students were creating in the musi- their instrument together and how to hold “If we weren’t in the schools, you’re talk-
OrchKids originated as an afterschool cal workshop. it. They can teach them a couple of notes. ing about hundreds and hundreds of kids
program to target times when there is peak “When you put a piece of music togeth- And once we have hundreds and hundreds that would never have had the opportunity
trouble with youth, said Skinner. er, you have to put all the ingredients in of kids here, we are going to be relying on to hear the wonderful group [Army Field
“We are trying to keep them engaged in — so all the accompaniment is different the older students [who] have been in the Band Woodwind Quintet] that we had here
something positive, and that is a large part ingredients,” Hodjati explained. “We add program for four or five years to step up today or be exposed to instruments or have
of the social change,” he said. one ingredient at a time and it doesn’t and be leaders within this program.” the opportunity to play an instrument. Giv-
The democratic side of the OrchKids sound like much until you add the choco- Because students spend upward of three ing a child the gift to play an instrument is
program is simply allowing children to late chips, which is the melody. Then you hours a day in the program, parents are a gift of a lifetime. And what that can do to
have access to musical education and the put it all together and you have a chocolate becoming more involved in school. Skinner transform a child’s life is just a very power-
arts. Many of the schools, said Skinner, chip cookie, which is the accompaniment and his team have even combined some ful thing. And these elements are really the
are unable to provide music education due with the melody.” events such as “Report Card Night” with foundation of the program.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 31, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

10. C over S tory
photos by steve Ruark
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Jim Johnson stands alongside retired Staff Sgt. Luis Rosa,
Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein and the Oriole Bird after the first pitch
Sunday afternoon. Rothstein and Rosa performed the ceremonial pitch together.
Big Hit
Orioles players donned new uniforms “They didn’t tell me when I was going
with camouflage numbers and script to to do that,” Rosa said. “I’ve never done
honor service members. something like that before. It was pretty
“The importance of the day is that it is incredible.”
Memorial Day weekend,” Rothstein said. After the pitch, the Military District
Fort Meade joins
“It’s an opportunity to reflect on those of Washington Armed Forces Color
who have fallen.” Guard marched onto the field for the
Members of the U.S. Army Drill singing of the National Anthem by Staff
Team opened the Military Appreciation Sgt. Randy Wight of the U.S. Army Field
Orioles for Military
Day events with a five-minute perfor- Band.
mance in the outfield that entertained During the anthem, service members
the crowd and even caught the attention from Fort Meade joined the Orioles’
of Royals players Eric Hosmer and Mike starting lineup in the field. Josephson
Appreciation Day
Moustakas, who were warming up by stood next to third baseman Wilson
their dugout. Betemit, who briefly talked to Joseph-
“It was really interesting to see the son.
color guard and the honor guard doing “It was pretty cool,” Josephson said.
their thing,” said Spc. Jason Josephson of “All the players were really respectful.
By Brandon Bieltz Members of the Fort Meade commu- the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade. Everybody was happy to see us there.”
Staff Writer nity participated in the several events, Following the precision performance, Josephson said he quickly noticed a
On Sunday afternoon, retired Staff including the singing of the National Rothstein and Rosa took the field to size difference in what he expected the
Sgt. Luis Rosa was where he never Anthem as several service members stood toss the first pitch. Initially, Rothstein players to look like. On television, he
thought he’d be — directly in front of the alongside the Orioles’ starting lineup. was supposed to make the pitch himself. said, the players look larger than life, but
pitcher’s mound of Oriole Park at Cam- In addition to inviting Fort Meade But after he met Rosa, who lost both legs in actuality, Josephson was about as tall
den Yards, with a ball in his hand. service members to partake in the pre- and an arm in Iraq, Rothstein invited as many of the players.
“It was pretty surreal,” Rosa said. game, the Orioles also donated more him to help. “It’s just different being on the field
“You get to see the field from afar, but than 1,000 tickets to the installation for “As a good officer, I always need a bet- instead of sitting in the stands,” he said.
getting on it is different.” service members and their families to ter NCO,” Rothstein said. “The sergeant Following the pregame events, Roth-
The Baltimore Orioles fan joined watch the game. helped me out.” stein and the service members watched
Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. While the event was a chance for service Rosa threw the ball from in front of the game from skyboxes.
Rothstein in throwing the first pitch for members to relax and enjoy themselves, the mound to Rothstein, who was stand- “Today has been a wonderful day,”
the Orioles’ Military Appreciation Day Rothstein said it was also important to ing halfway to the plate. Rothstein then Rothstein said.
before their game against the Kansas remember the purpose of Memorial Day. threw the ball over the plate to the Ori- Editor’s note: For more photos, please
City Royals. In observance of the national holiday, oles’ Jim Johnson. visit http://ow.ly/bdT0V.
12 SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

11. Fort Meade service members meet with
members of the Baltimore Orioles before
Sunday’s game against the Kansas City
Royals. Service members stood with the
starting lineup during the National Anthem
at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
photos by steve ruark
Members of the U.S. Army Drill team performs one of its signature maneuvers during
the pregame festivities at Camden Yards.
BELOW: Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Janice Truong and Petty Officer 3rd Class
Jordan Toellner meet the Oriole Bird prior to the Orioles’ Military Appreciation Day in
honor of Memorial Day.
photo by jonathan agee
Staff Sgt. Randy Wight of the U.S. Army Field Band performs the National Anthem in
front of a crowd of more than 30,000 baseball fans.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 31, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 13

12. S ports
707th CS defeats 704th MI for championship
Story and photo by Brandon Bieltz
Staff Writer
After the 707th Communications
Squadron came within two points of win-
ning the intramural volleyball champion-
ship last year, team captain Jordan Kroell
sent a clear message to this team.
“Second place is not where we want
to be,” he told them. “We want to bring
home the big trophy.”
A year removed from the six-match
series loss against the 34th Intelligence
Squadron, the 707th CS took home
the championship trophy May 24 after
defeating the 704th Military Intelligence
Brigade, 25-21, 19-25 and 15-12 at Mur-
phy Field House.
The 707th finished the regular season
with a dominating 10-1 record, with the
team’s sole loss coming against Cyber
Command in the last game of the sea-
son. Irdise Ward-El of the 707th said
that with a perfect season in their grasp,
the players became “comfortable” and
“played lazy” to close out the season.
Following the loss, however, the team
went on a roll in the playoffs to go unde-
feated to the championship game.
“We came back into the playoffs with
a better head on our shoulders,” Ward-El
said. “No more playing lazy just because
we feel like we got it.”
Finishing the season tied for third with
two other teams, the 704th lost to the
707th in the quarterfinals and were sent
to the losers bracket, where it defeated
the Navy Information Operations Com-
mand Maryland Chiefs, 94th IS, and Chris Carter of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade tries to block 707th Communications Squadron’s Henry Schott’s spike
NIOC MD to work its way back to the during the intramural volleyball championship May 24 at Murphy Field House. The 707th defeated the 704th: 25-21, 19-25 and
championship. 15-12.
Despite clawing back into contention,
the 704th had to overcome another chal- momentum,” Kroell said. “If we keep blocking several spikes and producing his spike. “I don’t think I’ve ever played
lenge in the intramural league’s champi- momentum on our side, we should have three kills. Haene added another four a sport where I actually made a difference
onship. Due to the double-elimination no issues.” kills and Rivera had three. at the end of the game.”
format of the playoffs, the team had to In the championship match, the 707th Kroell had three kills for the 707th and Barrett and Haene again led the 704th
defeat the 707th twice. put together a strong start to open the Nice added two for the 704th. with two kills each, but were unable to
John Haene said the 704th players were set, taking a quick lead in the first match. In a back-and-forth third match, Ward- force a second game.
confident they could pull out consecutive The 704th chipped away at the deficit El and Justin Klawitter helped the 707th Kroell said the championship win was
wins to take home the championship. to tie the match at 11 and took a 14-13 pull away late in the match. Ward-El pro- a weight off the player’s shoulders and
“We’re pretty much going to go all lead. Behind Kroell’s five kills and ace, duced four kills. Klawitter also had four that the team was relieved to redeem last
out in the first match,” he said. “This is Ward-El’s four kills and William Nice’s kills, including the game-winning spike in year’s close championship loss.
a good team, and we’ve been really com- two kills, the 707th regained the lead and the 15-12 victory. “I was tired of being second place,”
petitive against them all season.” won the match, 25-21. Haene and Bryan “It’s beyond belief,” Klawitter said of he said.
Last year, the 707th was in a same Rivera helped keep the 704th in the game
situation as the 704th, but battled back with two kills each and several crucial
to make the championship series com- blocks at the net.
petitive. Ward-El and Kroell both noted Down by a match, the 704th took the
For all your varsity and intramural sports schedules,
it was crucial to come out strong and not second match 19-25 with strong perfor- scores and standings, visit
let the 704th force a double-elimination mances from Haene, Rivera, William
game.
“It’s very important to shut them
Huff and Marques Barrett. Huff found www.quickscores.com/ftmeadesports.
success from the service line, serving two
down early; we don’t want them to get aces, while Barrett dominated at the net
14 SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

13. S ports
Jibber Jabber - Opinion Sports Shorts
Mullins Field closure
Great day at the office Mullins Field will remain closed through June 11 to resurface the track.
Anyone who has worked at least two True enough, Armed Forces Kids Run
days in their life knows that some days on my job involved
the job are better than others. working with America’s Armed Forces Kids Run will be held June 9 at 9 a.m. in the parking lot
We’ve all had days when your employees Kristen to shuf- behind 2234 Huber Road.
show up on time, the network runs a little fle the Colonel The run, billed as the “world’s largest children’s running event,” is open to ages 5 to
faster, the copier doesn’t jam, the AC is a around like he 13.
little cooler, and the work you are doing was a rock star. Cost is free; each youth participant will receive a T-shirt.
makes you like — or dare I say even love However, in com- Register online at americaskidsrun.org.
— your job. pleting that duty, For more information, call 301-677-1179.
Chad T. Jones,
Well, Sunday was one of those days. I had to go inside Public Affairs
Trust me, as somebody who has worked the press room to Officer Meade High School baseball camp
more than a few Sundays, I know the oxy- watch the Adam Registration is under way for the Meade High School baseball camp that
moron in classifying any Sunday obligation Jones press conference, grab the Colonel will be held June 18 to 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the high school.
outside of watching football as good. But a bottle of water and talk a little baseball The camp, which is open to ages 7 to 14, will cover hitting, bunting,
last Sunday was different. in the same dugout as Cal Ripken Jr. ran fielding, throwing, base running, stretching, playing at the next level and
Hopefully, most of you know that Fort out of. nutrition.
Meade played a major role in Sunday’s Then I had to hang out in the bowels Cost is $150 if you register by Friday. Cost increases to $175 after Friday.
Military Appreciation Day at Camden of the great ball park while Gold Glove For more infomation, email Dave Lanham at dlanham@aacps.org or call
Yards. The GC was interviewed for the catcher Matt Wieters and some of his 442-336-2424.
MASN pregame show http://www.masns- friends took the time to talk with our ser-
ports.com/index_medialounge.php?show_
id=1000793p, and then he threw out the
vice members and their families. Tough gig
I know, but it got worse.
EFMP bowling
first pitch with (retired) Staff Sgt. Luis After all of that, I had to beat the heat The Exceptional Family Member Program bowling events are held the third
Rosa, a triple amputee Wounded Warrior. and watch the pregame festivities from Tuesday of each month at the Lanes.
The U.S. Army Field Band’s Staff Sgt. down on the field. I had to brave the The next EFMP bowling will be June 19 and July 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Randy Wight sang the National Anthem sun and watch the Royals and Orioles Registration for the first event is required by June 15.
and “God Bless America.” And nine Fort take time from their pregame warm-up The events are open to Fort Meade exceptional family members and their
Meade service members got to hear Wight’s to check out the U.S. Army Drill Team’s family members and features free buffet food and giveaways.
rendition of the Anthem from the field performance. Then I had to scan the crowd Exceptional family members ages 18 and younger and their siblings may
where they stood shoulder-to-shoulder with while it stood collectively as Wight and the register for free games and shoe rental at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webt-
the O’s starting lineup. Military District of Washington Armed rac/meadecyms.html.
Oh yeah, the Orioles also provided Team Forces Color Guard paid tribute to our For more information, call 301-677-1156.
Meade with 1,000 free tickets, which appar- country and those who made the ultimate Adult exceptional family members may register for free games and shoe rental
ently 67.2 percent of you took advantage sacrifice. at the EFMP office at 301-677-4779. Discounted games and shoe rental will be
of. To be honest, I was a little disappointed Of all the great moments I had, that offered to other adult family members.
with that last number. But according to our vision of the crowd honoring our country For more information, email Anita Hendrix at anita.l.hendrix.civ@mail.mil
friend and Orioles director of promotions is the one that made Sunday such a great or call 301-677-4779.
and community initiatives, Kristen Schultz, day at the office — one I’ll certainly never
it was a “very respectable response,” so I forget. That’s because from my post on the First Responders Golf Classic
guess I can’t be too upset. field, I was able to see that Team Meade
Besides, the fans in the stands were not just gained thousands of new members, The Directorate of Emergency Services will sponsor the First Responder
the sole reason why Sunday was a great including one that has a big orange bird Golf Classic on Sept. 7 at Compass Pointe Golf Course in Pasadena.
day at work. Neither was the interview, or as a mascot. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Cost is $100 per player.
the first pitch or even the service members Thanks O’s for a great day on the job. The field is limited to 36 teams, so register early. Breakfast is provided.
on the field. Three closing notes: One, anyone who The shotgun start is at 9 a.m. An awards dinner banquet follows the
Fact of the matter is my day would have got tickets for the game or enjoyed the tournament.
been pretty outstanding even if the stands pregame festivities really needs to thank The event features a Captain’s Choice Best Ball four-player team. (Those
were half empty, the interview was done your chief of community relations Kristen who cannot fill all four are paired with other singles.)
by former Minnesota Twins closer Rick Parker for making it happen. Prizes will be awarded for long drive, straightest drive, closest to the pin
Aguilera as opposed to 1983 World Series Two, I need to apologize to my 3- to 4- (male/female) and top-placed teams. Door prizes also will be presented.
MVP and Baltimore Orioles legend Rick year-old Blue Tigers for not making it into For more information, call Keith Willard at 301-677-7681.
Dempsey, or if Wight’s Anthem was worse the stands with you to watch the game. I
than nine-time Olympic gold medalist Carl thought about you a lot and had a great Summer cheernastics
Lewis’ version. http://www.youtube.com/ time being your coach this season. Registration is under way for summer cheernastics. The next session will be
watch?v=3kU9XwcOIfI (You’re welcome Three, ... held Thursdays from June 7 to 28 at the Youth Center.
for the dose of Charlie Steiner.) If you have comments on this or anything Cost is $55 for ages 5 to 8 and $65 for ages 9 and older.
That’s because on Sunday, Camden to do with sports, contact me at chad. For more information, call 301-677-1149.
Yards was my official place of duty. t.jones.civ@mail.mil.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil May 31, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 15

14. C ommunity N ews
Local alternatives replace Community pools
• Fairland Aquatic Center, 13820/13950 Old Gunpowder
closed Rock Avenue Pool Road, Laurel
Cost: $6 for adults, $5 for children and seniors
Information: 301-362-6060
By Brandon Bieltz pool for 10 years and it’s very important to me to
Staff Writer find other outdoor pools in the area that can offer • North Arundel Aquatic Center, 7888 Crain Highway,
While members of the Fort Meade community a discount for our military families. We understand Glen Burnie
spent Memorial Day at the swimming pool to mark how important it is to have somewhere to relax and Cost: $4 for active-duty service members and children
the traditional beginning of summer, the pool off of swim with family during the summer.” Family swim pass for 20 visits is available for $68.
Rock Avenue remained empty. Through relationships with other pools in the Information: 410-222-0090
The pool, which is typically available to service surrounding areas, DFMWR has helped to provide
members, civilians, retirees and their families, will several alternatives for service members and their • Arundel Olympic Swim Center, 2690 Riva Road,
not open this year due to budget constraints. families to take a dip during the summer at prices Annapolis
However, the Directorate of Family and Morale, comparable to those at the Rock Avenue Pool. Cost: $4 for active-duty service members and children
Welfare and Recreation is offering a list of pool The pools, which are located in Laurel, Glen Information: 410-222-7933 or 301-970-2216
options in the nearby community for service mem- Burnie, Annapolis and Columbia, are providing
bers and their families. special rates for service members.
• Columbia Association: 5435 Beaverkill Road, Columbia
“Our service members are always our number 1 “We have been fortunate to find some great loca-
priority,” said Lauren Williams, acting chief of athlet- tions that want to support our military families Cost: $4 for adults, $2 for children
ics, fitness and aquatics. “I have operated the outdoor and offer a discounted rate,” Williams said. Information: 410-730-6744
‘A Noble Cause’
780th MI team participates in American
Cancer Society’s 2012 Relay for Life
Story and photo by Tina Miles most evident after a recent conversation he
780th MI Brigade, Public Affairs had with his mother when he realized that
Seven members of the 780th Military Intel- cancer had made its mark on his family for
ligence Brigade came together as a team to a long time.
wage war against a different kind of enemy Four of CooperHolmes’ family members
- cancer. have lost their lives to cancer and three others
To honor survivors and remember those are going through the battle.
who have lost their lives to cancer, as well as to “The most recent loss was last year while I The 780th Military Intelligence Brigade team, the Midnight Warriors, begin walking
raise funds and awareness to help save lives, the was stationed in Korea,” CooperHolmes said. in the 2012 Relay for Life West County Maryland held May 18 at the Old Mill Middle
780th MI Brigade team — the Midnight War- “It was my uncle, the only one other than me School North in Millersville. Participants include: (front row) Staff Sgt. Tiffiney Marie
riors — participated in the American Cancer who served in the Army. I looked up to him and Blakeslee, Sgt. 1st Class Wendoly Portillio, Sgt. 1st Class Tammy Cross, Sgt. 1st Class
Society 2012 Relay for Life of West County felt he was one I had most similarities to.” Jennifer Milledge and team captain Spc. Curtis CooperHolmes. (Second row:) Cathy
Maryland on May 18 at Old Mill Middle Then CooperHolmes found out his mother Fischer runs with her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fischer, and daughter; and 1st
School North in Millersville. had a cancerous lump removed in 1998, mak- Sgt. Tiyohn Thomas.
More than 1,000 people participated, ing her a 14-year survivor.
including 76 teams. The event raised more “Thankfully, it was caught in time,” he Maria Catherine “Cathy” Fischer was diag- ongoing fight against cancer.”
than $92,500 for the fight against cancer. said. nosed with Phase II breast cancer in 2005. The Other members of the Midnight Force team
The motivations for walking in the Relay CooperHolmes has some concerns regard- diagnosis was followed by multiple surgeries, were Staff Sgt. Tiffiney Marie Blakeslee, 781st
for Life varied. ing his own health, especially since cancer runs an aggressive chemo regimen and radiation MI Battalion; Sgt. 1st Class Jennifer Milledge,
For Spc. Curtis CooperHolmes of the 781st in both sides of his family. therapy. 780th MI Brigade; Sgt. 1st Class Tammy
MI Battalion, it was personal. “It just makes me more aware,” he said. She is now “clean,” a survivor. A very pri- Cross, 781st MI Battalion; Sgt. 1st Class Wen-
“Having witnessed a personal loss of family And that is exactly what the Relay for Life vate person, Cathy Fischer doesn’t talk much doly Portillio, 780th MI Battalion and 1st Sgt.
by this disease, I understand the importance to is about - awareness. about her cancer, and although she wasn’t Tiyohn Thomas, 780th MI Brigade.
be proactive by getting involved,” CooperHol- Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fischer, operations, officially a member of the Midnight Force, Thomas walked to support his brothers-
mes said. “This event was a great opportunity 780th MI Brigade, also had a personal reason she walked beside her husband and their two in-arms.
to be a part of something bigger than yourself. for walking as well. children at the Relay for Life. “It was an honor to go and walk with those
Not only that, it’s a great way to build team “My wife, Cathy, is a cancer survivor,” he “The Relay for Life was an uplifting experi- Soldiers who are currently dealing with fam-
unity.” said. “The whole process is a hard thing to ence,” Fischer said. “As the proud husband of ily members battling cancer,” he said. “It
CooperHolmes participated in past walks, go through … both the challenges and emo- a survivor, it is always truly heartening to see was also great to see the community come
but the importance of this year’s event was tions.” the level of local community support for the together to support such a noble cause.”
16 SOUNDOFF! May 31, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil