A coalition soldier died in a vehicle
accident yesterday in Afghanistan, U.S. military officials reported, and
the Defense Department released the identities of U.S. servicemembers
killed recently supporting the war on terror.
The soldier killed yesterday was conducting combat operations in Kunar
province, when he was involved in a single-vehicle accident and
roll-over. Another soldier was injured and required medical treatment.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our soldiers," said U.S.
Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin C. Freakley, commander of Combined Joint Task
Force 76. "Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and his fellow
soldiers. He was serving his country and protecting the freedom of the
Afghan people. His sacrifice will not be forgotten."
The injured soldier was stabilized at the medical treatment clinic in
Asadabad and will be transferred to the U.S. hospital at Bagram Air
Base. The accident did not involve enemy forces, and no Afghan civilians
were involved in the accident, officials said.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department released the names of nine soldiers
and a Marine who died recently while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom
and Operation Enduring Freedom:
-Army Sgt. Nathaniel B. Lindsey, 38, of Troutdale, Ore., died Sept. 9
in Shajoy, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when his Humvee encountered
undetermined ordnance from enemy forces during patrol operations.
Lindsey was assigned to the Army National Guard's 41st Brigade Combat Team,
Portland, Ore.
-Marine Cpl. Johnathan L. Benson, 21, of North Branch, Minn., died
Sept. 9 from wounds suffered June 17 while conducting combat operations in
Iraq's Anbar province. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine
Regiment, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp
Pendleton, Calif.
-Army Pfc. Anthony P. Seig, 19, of Sunman, Ind., died Sept. 9, in
Baghdad of injuries suffered when he encountered indirect fire from enemy
forces while on base. Seig was assigned to the Army's 118th Military
Police Company, 519th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police
Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-Army Sgt. 1st Class Merideth L. Howard, 52, of Alameda, Calif., and
Army Staff Sgt. Robert J. Paul, 43, of The Dalles, Ore., died in Kabul,
Afghanistan, on Sept. 8, when a makeshift bomb detonated near their
Humvee. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army Reserve's 405th Civil
Affairs Battalion, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-Army Sgt. David W. Gordon, 23, of Williamsfield, Ohio, died Sept. 8,
in Baghdad of injuries suffered when a makeshift bomb detonated near his
Humvee during combat operations. Gordon was assigned to the Army's 3rd
Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th
Infantry Division, Fort Hood Texas.
-Army Sgt. Luis A. Montes, 22, of El Centro, Calif., died Sept. 7 in
Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, of injuries suffered Sept. 1 in
Abu Ghraib, Iraq, when a makeshift bomb detonated near his vehicle
during combat operations. Montes was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 22nd
Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort
Hood, Texas.
-Army Sgt. John A. Carroll, 26, of Ponca City, Okla., died Sept. 6 in
Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries suffered when he came in contact with enemy
forces using small-arms fire during a dismounted security patrol. Carroll
was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored
Division, Baumholder, Germany.
-Army Sgt. Jason L. Merrill, 22, of Mesa, Ariz., and Pfc. Edwin A.
Andino II, 23, of Culpepper, Va., died Sep. 3 in Baghdad of injuries
suffered when a makeshift bomb detonated near their vehicle during combat
operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th
Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Wuerzburg,
Germany.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier, who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Anthony P. Seig, 19, of Sunman, Ind., died on Sept. 9, in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when he encountered indirect fire from
enemy forces while on base. Seig was assigned to the Army's 118th
Military Police Company, 519th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police
Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier, who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. John A. Carroll, 26, of Ponca City, Okla., died on Sept. 6 in Ar
Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries sustained when he came in contact with enemy
forces using small arms fire during a dismounted security patrol.
Carroll was assigned to the Army 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 1st
Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers,
who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
They died in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sept. 8, when a vehicle-borne
improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV. Both soldiers were
assigned to the Army Reserve's 405th Civil Affairs Battalion, Fort
Bragg, N.C.
Killed were:
Sgt. 1st Class Merideth L. Howard, 52, of Alameda, Calif.
Staff Sgt. Robert J. Paul, 43, of The Dalles, Ore.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier, who
was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Nathaniel B. Lindsey, 38, of Troutdale, Ore., died on Sept. 9 in
Shajoy, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his HMMWV came in
contact with undetermined ordnance during combat operations. Lindsey was
assigned to the Army National Guard's 41st Brigade Combat Team, Portland,
Ore.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Johnathan L. Benson, 21, of North Branch, Minn., died Sept. 9
from wounds suffered on June 17 while conducting combat operations in Al
Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine
Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton,
Calif.
President Bush today marked the fifth
anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks on the United States
tonight by calling on the nation to remember those lost that day and to
unite in moving forward to win the war on terror.
Bush, speaking in the Oval Office after earlier visiting all three
sites scarred by the Sept. 11 attacks, recounted the painful events of that
day but also the extraordinary courage he said ordinary citizens
displayed.
"On this day, we remember the innocent who lost their lives," he said
following solemn ceremonies at New York's World Trade Center, in
Shanksville, Pa., and at the Pentagon. "And we pay tribute to those who gave
their lives so that others might live."
The United States resolves to honor all those lost and seeks a lasting
memorial to them in a "safer, more hopeful world," he said.
The United States has learned much about the enemy that attacked on
Sept. 11 and recognizes it as a global network of extremists driven by a
totalitarian ideology that hates all that America stands for, Bush said.
And while actions taken in the United States since that day have
prevented another similar attack on the homeland, Bush insisted that the
terrorists "have not been idle" and haven't given up their goals.
"We face an enemy determined to bring death and suffering into our
homes," he said. "America did not ask for this war, and every American
wishes it was over. So do I. But the war is not over, and it will not be
over until either we or the extremists emerge victorious."
The United States has made headway in confronting terrorists and those
who harbor or support them, Bush said. "We helped drive the Taliban
from power in Afghanistan. We put al Qaeda on the run and killed or
captured most of those who planned the Sept. 11 attacks, including the man
believed to be the mastermind, Khalid Sheik Mohammed."
While Osama bin Laden and other terrorists remain in hiding, Bush said,
the United States' message to them is clear: "No matter how long it
takes, America will find you, and we will bring you to justice."
The president said the United States must maintain its resolve to
follow through with what he acknowledged is not an easy fight. "If we do not
defeat these enemies now, we will leave our children to face a Middle
East overrun by terrorist states and radical dictators armed with
nuclear weapons," he said.
The stakes could not be higher, Bush said, calling the struggle way
more than a clash of civilizations as some have suggested, but rather, "a
struggle for civilization."
"We are fighting to maintain the way of life enjoyed by free nations,"
he said. "And we are fighting for the possibility that good and decent
people across the Middle East can raise up societies based on freedom
and tolerance and personal dignity."
By working to support democratic leaders and reformers in parts of the
world ruled by tyranny, the United States is helping to offer a path
away from radicalism and extremism, the president said. When the people
of the Middle East see a future of hope and opportunity for their
children, the appeal of radicalism will decline "and we will leave our
children with a better and safer world," he said.
Bush called on Americans to observe the fifth anniversary of the Sept.
11 terror attacks by rededicating themselves to this cause.
"Our nation has endured trials, and we face a difficult road ahead," he
said. "Winning this war will require the determined efforts of a
unified country. So we must put aside our differences and work together to
meet the test that history has given us. We will defeat our enemies; we
will protect our people; and we will lead the 21st century into a
shining age of human liberty."
Navy Names Newest Arleigh Burke Class Ship USS Gravely
The Department of the Navy announced today that the Navy's newest
Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer will be the USS Gravely,
honoring the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Chief of Naval Personnel,
Vice Adm. John Harvey announced the honor during remarks at the
National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Conference.
"It's fitting that this type of ship be named after a man who was able
to set a true course for our nation's Navy, and at the same time
transform challenges into accomplishments and lead the way for a future
generation of Naval warfighters," said Harvey.
Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. was born in Richmond, Va., June 4, 1922. After
attending Virginia Union University, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve
in September 1942. In 1943 he participated in a Navy program (V-12)
designed to select and train highly qualified men for commissioning as
officers in the Navy. On Dec. 14, 1944, Gravely successfully completed
midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned as an
officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. He was released
from active duty in April 1946, but remained in the Naval Reserve.
Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949. As part of the Navy's
response to President Truman's executive order to desegregate the armed
services, his initial assignment was as a Navy Recruiter, recruiting
African Americans in the Washington, D.C. area. Gravely went on to a Navy
career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished
accomplishments.
Gravely was a true pathfinder whose performance and leadership as an
African American Naval officer demonstrated to America the value and
strength of diversity. Gravely's accomplishments served as watershed
events for today's Navy. He was the first African American to command a
warship (the USS Theodore E. Chandler); command a major warship (USS
Jouett); to achieve flag rank and eventually vice admiral; and to command a
numbered fleet (Third).
The USS Gravely will provide a dynamic multi-mission platform to lead
the Navy into the future. Utilizing a gas turbine propulsion system the
ship can operate independently or as part of carrier battle groups,
surface action groups, amphibious ready groups, and underway replenishment
groups. The ship's combat systems center on the Aegis combat system and
the SPY-lD, multifunction phased array radar. The combination of Aegis,
the Vertical Launching System, an advanced anti-submarine warfare
system, advanced anti-aircraft missiles and Tomahawk, the Burke-class
continues the revolution at sea.
CONTRACTS
ARMY
AM General L.L.C., South Bend, Ind., was awarded on Sept. 7, 2006, an
$88,619,583 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for M1151A1
with Kit B, M1152, and M1165 high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles.
Work will be performed in South Bend, Ind., and is expected to be
completed by Dec. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July
17, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren,
Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).
REEP Inc., Manchester, N.H., was awarded on Sept. 3, 2006, a delivery
order amount of $41,200,000 as part of a $250,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for bilingual bicultural advisor / subject matter expert
services. Performance location will be determined with each delivery order,
and is expected to be completed by April 15, 2007. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Aug. 19, 2006, and
three bids were received. The Joint Contracting Command, Baghdad, Iraq,
is the contracting activity (W91GER-06-D-0006).
EAI Corp., Abington, Md., was awarded on Aug. 28, 2006, a delivery
order amount of $22,459,000 firm-fixed-price contract for integration and
upgrade of analytical laboratory systems assigned to National Guard
Units. Work will be performed in Abingdon, Md. (98 percent), and
Dallastown, Pa. (2 percent), and is expected to be completed by Aug. 13, 2008.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were two bids solicited on June 16, 2006, and two bids were
received. The U.S. Army Research, Development, and Engineering Command,
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-04-D-0014).
J.D. Abrams L.L.P., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a
delivery order amount of $20,144,932 as part of a $78,050,761
firm-fixed-price contract for the materials, equipment, and labor for the
construction of the Bridge Combat Team - 2 Infrastructure. Work will be
performed at Biggs Airfield, Fort Bliss, Texas, and is expected to be completed
by March 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. There were five bids solicited on Aug. 1, 2006, and
four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth,
Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-06-D-0030).
Bean Stuyvesant L.L.C., New Orleans, La., was awarded on Aug. 31,
2006, an $18,370,000 firm-fixed-price contract for maintenance dredging of
South Pass. Work will be performed in Plaquemines Parish, La., and is
expected to be completed by March 7, 2007. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number
of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on May 5, 2006, and four bids
were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans, La., is
the contracting activity (W912P8-06-C-0191).
GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich.,
was awarded on Sept. 7, 2006, a $13,102,756 modification to a
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for repair of Stryker Vehicles returning from
Operation Iraqi Freedom. Work will be performed in Doha, Qatar (80 percent),
Sterling Heights, Mich. (10 percent), and London, Canada (10 percent),
and is expected to be completed by June 30, 2007. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on March 31, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(DAAE07-02-C-B001).
DRS Training and Control Systems Inc., Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was
awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a $10,043,974 increment as part of a
$56,983,884 firm-fixed-price contract for Driver's Vision Enhancer A-Kits. Work
will be performed in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., and is expected to be
completed by Aug. 30, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of
the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited
via the World Wide Web on May 22, 2006, and four bids were received. The
U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is
the contracting activity (W15P7T-06-C-W006).
GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich.,
was awarded on Sept. 6, 2006, a $7,271,737 modification to a
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Repair of Stryker Vehicles Returning from
Operation Iraqi Freedom. Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich.
(12 percent), and London, Canada (88 percent), and is expected to be
completed by Dec. 31, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of
the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on
March 31, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command,
Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-02-C-B001).
AM General L.L.C., Mishawaka, Ind., was awarded on Sept. 7, 2006, a
delivery order amount of $5,241,980 as part of a $48,327,812
firm-fixed-price contract for naturally aspirated engines with containers for the
high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles. Work will be performed in
Franklin, Ohio (68 percent), and Mishawka, Ind. (32 percent), and is
expected to be completed by March 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of
bid solicited via the World Wide Web on Aug. 4, 2005, and one bid was
received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren,
Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-06-D-0123).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Henry Schein, Inc., Melville, N.Y., is being awarded a maximum
$24,500,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment for various general
dental supplies. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Federal
civilian agencies. This contract is exercising option year 2. There were 50
proposals solicited and 8 responded. Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is
September 11, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center
Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM200-05-D-7423).
NAVY
Tesoro Corp., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded a $9,143,851
firm-fixed price Task Order 0004 under a previously awarded multiple award
construction contract (N40085-05-D-5057) for the construction of a Small
Arms Range, SATEC Q259, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, Va. The work to be
performed includes demolition and removal, site work which includes a
precast concrete bridge, provisions for multiple buildings such as
pre-engineered buildings, cast-in-place reinforced concrete buildings and
reinforced concrete structural buildings with pre-cast concrete wall
panels, metal roofing for the pre-engineered building, concrete roof decks,
interior finishes, fire protection, plumbing, mechanical, electrical,
purchase of wetlands mitigation bank credits, security fencing and
incidental related work. Work will be performed in Virginia Beach, Va., and
is expected to be completed by March 2008. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract
was competitively procured with seven proposals solicited, six offers
received and award made on Sept. 8, 2006. The Naval Facilities
Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
ITT Industries, Gilfillan Division, Van Nuys, Calif., is being awarded
an $8,162,489 cost-plus-fixed-fee definitization modification to
previously awarded contract (N00024-06-C-5204) for the Radar Obsolescence
Availability Recovery Program for the AN/SPS-48E Radar System. The
modification provides for procurement of engineering and technical services to
design, integrate, and test the AN/SPS-48G(V) Radar System upgrade. The
AN/SPS-48 (series) Radar System is the principal three dimensional air
surveillance sensor on all Navy aircraft carriers and large deck
amphibious ships. Work will be performed in Van Nuys, Calif., and is expected
to be completed in January 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command,
Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Bell-Boeing Joint Program Office, Patuxent River, Md., is being
awarded a $6,636,939 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee
contract (N00019-93-C-0006) to provide additional funds for the V-22
Engineering and Manufacturing Development Program. Specifically, this
modification provides for the Interactive Electronic Technical Manual,
technical data quality assurance requirements and paper technical manuals.
Work will be performed in Ridley Park, Pa. (70 percent) and Fort Worth,
Texas (30 percent) and is expected to be completed in December 2007.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The
Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting
activity.
McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co.,
St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $5,208,408 delivery order against a
previously issued Basic Ordering Agreement (N00019-05-G-0026) for the
procurement of Flash removable memory modules (RMMs) for F/A-18E/F Lot
26-28 Retrofit Aircraft and F/A-18E/F and EA-18G Lot 29-30 Production
Aircraft. This order is in support of Engineering Change Proposal 06296
(ECP-06296), Solid State RMM Redesign. Work will be performed in St.
Louis, Mo., and is expected to be completed in March 2007. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air
Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.
The Defense Department is honoring the
Fred Fletemeyer Company, a small family-owned construction business in
Colorado Springs, Colo., with its most prestigious award for employers who
support National Guard and reserve troops.
The Fred Fletemeyer Company is among 15 employers across the United
States named as winners of the 2006 Secretary of Defense Employer Support
Freedom Award. The award publicly recognizes employers for exceptional
support beyond the requirements of federal law. Employees who also
serve in the Guard or reserve nominate companies for the honor.
Navy Reserve Senior Chief Petty Officer Bill Feigt, a Fletemeyer
employee, nominated his company for the award for the support it offered
during his deployment to Iraq and as he remains on active duty being
treated for injuries received, according to Syl Peixotto, who describes
herself as the company's "chief cook and bottle washer."
Peixotto pointed to Fred Fletemeyer, the company president, as the
driving force behind its philosophy for supporting its Guard and reserve
members. Although he never served in the military himself due to medical
disqualifiers, Fletemeyer is a stalwart supporter of men and women in
uniform, she said.
His attitude prevails throughout the 20-person company, she said. "It
all comes down to patriotism. These guys are doing things that need to
be done, and our job is to support them as they do them," Peixotto said.
During its Guard and reserve members' deployments, the company
continued to pay their full salary for a time, then later, a pay differential
to make up the difference between their military and civilian pay. It
also continued company benefits throughout the deployments.
But the company's support went further, with frequent care packages
containing "anything legal," from crayons and coloring books to favorite
food items, and regular e-mails, Peixotto said. In addition, company
employees checked in on the activated servicemembers' families to ensure
they were OK and to see what help they might need.
"They're pretty self-sufficient, but we made sure they knew we were
here to help them if they needed us," she said.
Fletemeyer and his family will travel here later this month receive the
Freedom Award at a Sept. 21 ceremony at the Ronald Reagan Building and
International Trade Center.
Bob Hollingsworth, executive director for the National Committee for
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, praised the Fred Fletemeyer
Company and other recipients of the Secretary of Defense Employer Support
Freedom Award.
"On behalf of the men and women serving in the National Guard and
reserve, I would like to congratulate these firms and thank them for their
outstanding support," he said. "By going above and beyond what is
required by law, these firms set a high standard for all of America's private
and public employers."
Then-Defense Secretary William Perry instituted the award in 1996 under
the auspices of the National Committee for Employer Support of the
Guard and Reserve. The Freedom Award is the highest in a series of DoD
employer awards that includes the Patriot Award, the ESGR Above and Beyond
Award, and the Pro Patria Award.
Success in Iraq is critical to success in
the global war on terror, President Bush said tonight during a
televised address to the American people on the fifth anniversary of the
terrorist attacks on New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon.
Bush, speaking from the Oval Office, marked the anniversary of the
Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks by urging national unity against terrorists
and extremists that pose a threat to the United States, including those
in Iraq.
"I am often asked why we are in Iraq when Saddam Hussein was not
responsible for the 9/11 attacks," the president said. "The answer is that
the regime of Saddam Hussein was a clear threat. My administration, the
Congress and the United Nations saw the threat -- and after 9/11,
Saddam's regime posed a risk that the world could not afford to take."
The U.S. and the world are safer with Saddam removed from power, the
president said. The challenge now is to help the Iraqi people build a new
democracy -- something Bush acknowledged terrorists are doing
everything in their power to stop. "Al Qaeda and other extremists from across
the world have come to Iraq to stop the rise of a free society in the
heart of the Middle East," he said. "They have joined the remnants of
Saddam's regime and other armed groups to foment sectarian violence and
drive us out.
"Our enemies in Iraq are tough and they are committed, but so are Iraqi
and coalition forces," the president said. "We are adapting to stay
ahead of the enemy, and we are carrying out a clear plan to ensure that a
democratic Iraq succeeds."
Bush cited steps under way to help realize that dream. The coalition is
training Iraqi troops so they can defend their nation and helping
Iraq's unity government develop so it can serve the Iraqi people.
"We will not leave until this work is done," he said. "Whatever
mistakes have been made in Iraq, the worst mistake would be to think that if
we pulled out, the terrorists would leave us alone. They will not leave
us alone. They will follow us. The safety of America depends on the
outcome of the battle in the streets of Baghdad."
Osama bin Laden recognizes this fact, calling the war in Iraq "the
Third World War" and boasting that victory for the terrorists there will
mean America's "defeat and disgrace forever," Bush said.
"If we yield Iraq to men like bin Laden, our enemies will be
emboldened," he said. "They will gain a new safe haven, and they will use Iraq's
resources to fuel their extremist movement."
Bush insisted that the United States won't allow that to happen.
"America will stay in the fight. Iraq will be a free nation and a strong ally
in the war on terror," he said.
Americans can be confident of the coalition's success, not just because
of the conviction shown by the Iraqi people, but also the skill and
resolve of the U.S. armed forces, Bush said.
"Every one of our troops is a volunteer, and since the attacks of
September the 11th, more than 1.6 million Americans have stepped forward to
put on our nation's uniform," he said.
He noted that the accomplishments they are making in Iraq, Afghanistan
and other fronts in the terror war haven't been without sacrifice.
"Some (troops) have suffered terrible injuries, and nearly 3,000 have given
their lives," he said. "America cherishes their memory. We pray for
their families.
"And we will never back down from the work they have begun."
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers
who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on Sep. 3 in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device
detonated near their vehicle during combat operations. Both soldiers were
assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Wurzburg, Germany.
Killed were:
Sgt. Jason L. Merrill, 22, of Mesa, Ariz.
Pvt. Edwin A. Andino II, 23, of Culpeper, Va.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. David W. Gordon, 23, of Williamsfield, Ohio, died on Sept. 8, in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive
device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations. Gordon was
assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood Texas.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Luis A. Montes, 22, of El Centro, Calif., died on Sept. 7 in
Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas, of injuries suffered on
Sept. 1 in Abu Ghraib, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated
near his vehicle during combat operations. Montes was assigned to the
1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th
Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
On the west side of the historic
Jackson Covered Bridge, built in 1836, nearly 100 residents and visitors of
the Mount Washington Valley gathered yesterday to participate in an
America Supports You Freedom Walk here.
Participants included adults, school-age children and young ones still
in strollers.
The sky was nearly cloudless and blue, the setting sun a bright orange
and red, and the air crisp.
At 6:30 p.m. the chairman of Jackson's selectmen, Gino Funicello,
welcomed the walkers and lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed
by a minute of silence in honor of those who lost their lives on Sept.
11, 2001, and the military servicemembers who have made the ultimate
sacrifice in the global war on terrorism. The walkers sang "God Bless
America" before lining up behind the American flag carried by Vietnam
veteran and Army reservist Bob O'Conner.
Many of the walkers carried small American flags and candles as they
trekked the one-mile loop starting and ending at the wooden covered
bridge.
Kathleen Merrill, director of the Jackson/Bartlett Chamber of Commerce,
called the event a success considering that this was the first Sept. 11
event held in this area.
As the participants ended their walk, the last rays of the sun now
already behind the crests of the White Mountains turned the edges of the
few ragged clouds into a bright hue of orange.
Merrill pledged to make this walk a new tradition for the Mount
Washington Valley.
"We are going to make this event even better next year with some music,
perhaps a small marching band, and I am going to start planning for
next year's walk six months ahead of time," she said.
The event was just one of more than 120 Freedom Walk's held across the
country between Sept. 9 and 11. This and similar events are patterned
after national Freedom Walk in Washington, D.C., Sept. 10. The national
event is sponsored by the Defense Department's America Supports You
program, which highlights corporate and grassroots organizations support
the nation's men and women in uniform.
Soldiers and families of the 3rd
Infantry Division, representatives of Fort Stewart, the city of
Hinesville and Liberty County, and more than 1,000 other guests displayed their
unity at twilight yesterday to observe the fifth anniversary of Sept.
11, 2001, with a commemorative Freedom Walk.
The walk was among some 130 Freedom Walks nationwide during the weekend
and today to honor the victims of Sept. 11, veterans and servicemembers
who continue to sacrifice in the global war on terrorism.
Individuals and groups began their solemn trek on Fort Stewart's
Warriors Walk, a grove of memorial eastern redbud trees that honor the post's
316 soldiers who have given their lives in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Joel Jacobs, who lost his leg in service
with the 92nd Engineer Battalion in Iraq, came out to Warriors Walk to
support the Freedom Walk.
"I walk Warriors Walk every day," Jacobs said. "It gives you
perspective of what you've done and what you're going to do and why you've done
it. This represents the sacrifices of not just our soldiers, but our
police, fire and emergency responders. It represents the sacrifice that
makes our country great. To see people come out and support the event
allows us to keep doing what we're doing. It gives it meaning."
Freedom Walk participants came from a cross section of the community
that included police officers, firemen, emergency service technicians,
soldiers, veterans, civilians and family members.
"This event is special. It commemorates the sacrifices of the first
responders to the Sept. 11 tragedy and the subsequent efforts of the
military and community members to fight terrorism," said Hinesville Police
Sgt. Gerald Morris. "I think after the event, we all came together. It's
something that everyone has to be involved in -- not just the soldiers
and first responders, but the people, too. We all have to work together
against terrorism."
"I was in my fifth-grade class," said Janay Reid, a 15-year-old student
and daughter of a police officer, as she recalled that day five years
ago. "We were watching the television when the second plane crashed into
the (World Trade Center) building. Everyone was scared. The teacher
started crying. Many of us did.
"I think this is a great opportunity for everyone to get together and
remember what happened -- especially here on Fort Stewart," she said.
"It shows how much everyone cares."
Connie Thrift, vice chairman of the Liberty County Board of
Commissioners, and Hinesville Mayor Tom Ratcliffe were among officials who
addressed the participants before the Freedom Walk.
Ratcliffe said the 316 Fort Stewart soldiers who lost their lives in
service to the country in Iraq were community members, neighbors and
friends who would be missed. He reflected back to Sept. 11, 2001, and noted
how they shared the same spirit of selfless service and sacrifice
displayed by the emergency responders and civilians that day.
"I'm reminded that the (Bible) teaches us that there is no greater love
that any man may have that he would choose to lay down his life for his
neighbor, for his friend," Ratcliffe said. "I'm reminded that it is
that same spirit that brings us here this evening. Tonight's walk helps us
draw closer if just for a short time to allow us to reflect on the
sacrifices on all who wear the uniform."
Following Ratcliffe, Army Col. Mark McKnight, the 3rd Infantry Division
chief of staff and son of a firefighter, told participants he didn't
want to forget his vivid memories of Sept. 11.
"Just like my parents' generation, who will not forget Pearl Harbor, I
do not want to forget the events of Sept. 11, 2001," McKnight said. "I
will never forget the innocent men, women and children who lost their
lives purely for the fact they were Americans.
"I will never forget the families of the Sept. 11 victims," he said.
"They will never know the love of lost fathers, mothers, sons, daughters,
brothers and sisters."
McKnight said he'll also never forget the brave men and women who
responded that day, sacrificing their lives and their safety to rescue, save
and finally recover their fellow Americans.
And there are others McKnight said he he'll always remember. "I will
never forget the men and women of our armed forces who have fallen in the
global war on terrorism," he said. "I will never forget the men and
women of our police, fire and emergency services who stand vigilant and
ready every day to protect our homeland.
"And finally," he said. "I will never forget (that) until the enemies
of our country are defeated, they will try again to attack our families,
our nation and our way of life."
The sentiments expressed by the guest speakers were echoed throughout
the evening by Freedom Walk participants.
"We were happy to help out and participate," said Hinesville Police
Chief George Stagmeier. "This event honors first responders and the
military alike. It recognizes the sacrifices we've all had to make with the
global war on terrorism. I think that if there is one message everyone
should take away, it's not to forget the sacrifices we've all made: the
people, the first responders and the military."
The solemn event was punctuated with the feeling of patriotism as
people carried American flags, shared words of encouragement and listened to
echoed calls for remembrance.
"People can probably remember where they were and what they were doing
on Sept. 11, 2001," said Paul Spence, project chairman for the local
Vietnam Veterans of America. "I think today will bring a lot of that
back. And I think that it's an event that we should never, never forget."
Joining the Vietnam Veterans of America were more than 100 soldiers
from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 41st Field
Artillery, a unit they adopted during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
About 1,200 Harley-Davidson motorcycle
riders along with a peppering of folks on other types of bikes rode in the
fourth annual "Rattle the Runway Ride" today to commemorate the victims
of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
The riders assembled at the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F.
Udvar-Hazy Center, near Dulles International Airport in Northern
Virginia, before setting off on the short ride to the Pentagon.
"This commemorative ride is our way of saying we will not forget the
victims of Sept. 11, 2001," Rex Howke, the co-founder of the event told
the bikers before the ride embarked. "We're here because we want every
parent, every spouse, every child, every relative of those heroes to
know that their loss has not been forgotten. We will not forget 9/11!"
Howke, a retired fireman, and Marty Clarke, a Dulles airport operations
officer, began the Rattle the Runway Ride in 2003. "I mentioned to
Marty that I thought it would be awesome to take motorcycles out onto the
runway where American Airline's Flight 77 took off from before crashing
into the Pentagon," Howke said. "Within a few months we put the whole
thing together."
The first ride included just 300 motorcycles and began on the same
runway that Flight 77 used during its departure. Due to security concerns,
subsequent rides have not been allowed to ride on the airport runway.
Mike Quirin was participating in his third Rattle the Runway Ride
today. "The ride is important not just to remember the victims of 9/11, but
it's important to remember the whole situation," Quirin said. "We need
to remember that we have to fight to retain our freedom."
Sean Kennedy, who has a son serving with the Marines in Iraq, said he
was riding to show solidarity with the families of Sept. 11 victims.
"I just felt like I should come out and remember the families who lost
people on that day," Kennedy said. "It's an opportunity to recall what
happened on 9/11 and to be mindful that a lot of folks lost an awful
lot of loved ones. Not just here, but in New York, as well. I just wanted
to take time to remember that."
In addition to its symbolic meaning, the ride raised money for the
Pentagon Memorial, which is being constructed near the Pentagon airliner
crash site. The 2005 Rattle the Runway Ride raised $7000 for the memorial
from the sale of Rattle the Runway patches.
Jim Laychak, president of the Pentagon Memorial Fund, was on hand at
the end of the ride to thank participants for their contribution. "Thank
you all taking part in this great ride," he said.
Laychak's brother, Dave, was killed at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.
Dave Laychak was a civilian employee of the U.S. Army.
The Pentagon Memorial Fund is responsible for raising money, designing,
building and maintaining the memorial, which is scheduled for
completion in 2008.
Laychak said the fund began its fundraising efforts in April 2004 and
has raised more than $12.5 million to date. Anheuser-Busch and AT&T
have both donated $1 million to the memorial fund.
"I'm confident with the help of large corporations and people like you
here in this crowd, that we're going to raise the $22 million we need
to construct the memorial," Laychak said. "We owe it to our loved ones,
we owe it to every one who witnessed what happened that day, and we owe
it to the men and women overseas fighting to keep us safe."
President Bush and first lady Laura Bush
laid two wreaths today at Ground Zero, where the twin towers of the
World Trade Center once soared into the New York City sky.
The Bushes placed the wreaths afloat in separate pools of water meant
to represent the "footprints" of the towers. The president did not speak
during the solemn occasion, but he told White House pool reporters
after the event that he and Laura are approaching tomorrow's fifth
anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, with heavy hearts.
"It's hard not to think about the people who lost their lives on
September the 11th, 2001," he said. "You know, you see the relatives of those
who still grieve -- I just wish there were some way we could make them
whole. So tomorrow is going to be a day of sadness for a lot of
people."
Bush said being at Ground Zero reminded him that there's still an enemy
out there who is intent on inflicting more damage on Americans. "I
vowed that I'm never going to forget the lessons of that day," he said.
New York Gov. George Pataki, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and
former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani accompanied the president and first
lady at ground zero.
Following the laying of the wreaths today, the Bushes attended a prayer
service at nearby St. Paul's Chapel, where George Washington worshipped
when New York was the capital of the United States. St. Paul's became a
refuge for Sept. 11 first responders and victims' family members after
the terror attack.
"Today at the church service I asked for God's blessings on those who
continue to hurt," Bush said.
Tomorrow the president is scheduled to visit a New York City firehouse
and then proceed to Shanksville, Pa., for a ceremony where one of the
hijacked planes crashed into a field. He will then attend a wreath
laying ceremony at the Pentagon.
One result of the terrorist attacks of
Sept. 11, 2001, was the establishment of U.S. Northern Command to deal
with threats aimed at the United States, the organization's commander said
here today.
During an interview at the Pentagon's Radio Day event, Navy Adm.
Timothy Keating spoke his personal experiences during the attack and about
his command.
Keating, who is also the commander of North American Aerospace Defense
Command, was the Navy's director of operations in the Pentagon on Sept.
11, 2001. "I was in the operations update when the news hit of the
first plane hitting the World Trade Center," Keating said to Washington
Post Radio. "We were quite bewildered. We couldn't understand how a pilot
could make such a significant navigational error on a day when the
skies were crystal clear blue."
He said he left the update and went to his office and saw the second
airplane hit the World Trade Center. Understanding now that it was an
attack, Keating made some phone calls and was headed back to the
operations center when he felt the Pentagon shake. "Flight 77 came into the west
wall right next to the helicopter pad," he said.
The flames and smoke came through the passageways of the Pentagon.
Keating said he tried to get to the operations center via another entrance,
but it soon became apparent that the Navy Operations Center was one of
the areas hit by the plane. "There were 26 young men and women who had
given me that ops update just that morning who perished on watch in our
command center," he said.
The fact that the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Shanksville,
Pa., where United Flight 93 crashed, were combat zones that day spurred
the creation of U.S. Northern Command.
Then-Defense Secretary William S. Cohen originally suggested a
"homeland defense-type command" in 1998. But it wasn't until the tragedy of
Sept. 11, 2001, that all saw the need for the command. U.S. Northern
Command stood up Oct. 1, 2002, and its area of operations includes air, land
and sea approaches and covers the continental United States, Alaska,
Canada, Mexico and the surrounding water out to approximately 500
nautical miles. It also covers the Gulf of Mexico and the Straits of Florida.
Keating said the command now plans for the unthinkable. On Sept. 11,
2001, thousands of planes were in the air when the four were hijacked.
NORAD officials could not scramble military jets fast enough to intercept
and possibly shoot down the airliners before they were used as weapons.
"To be able to sort through all those normal flights that are being
conducted was a tough order for us that morning," Keating said. "We're
much better at it today than we were five years ago, and we're much better
prepared to handle a situation like that today."
Tears flowed freely under the gray sky as
family members of those killed in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11,
2001, gathered outside the Pentagon today to honor the memory of their
loved ones.
"Five years ago, Sept. 11 forever ceased to be an ordinary date on the
calendar," Vice President Richard B. Cheney said at the Pentagon
memorial observance for family members. "So we gather once again to recall
events that still have the power to move us and always will. And we honor
the men, women and children whose lives were taken so suddenly and so
coldly here at the Pentagon, at the World Trade Center and on a field in
Pennsylvania."
About 100 family members of those killed at the Pentagon on Sept. 11
attended the ceremony, which included speeches from Cheney, Defense
Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, and Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the
Joint Chief of Staff, and music from the U.S. Army Band.
The people who died on Sept. 11 started the day just like everyone
else, as free citizens of a peaceful country, but all their hopes and
dreams were taken away by the wicked plans of a few men, Cheney said.
"We remember all that we saw and heard and felt on that Tuesday morning
and also how much the world changed on the 11th of September, 2001," he
said. "9/11 is a day of national unity. The memories stay with all of
us because the attack was directed at all of us. We were meant to take
it personally, and we still do take it personally."
The anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks is a time to remember
those killed five years ago and also the servicemembers who have fought
and died for the country since that day, Rumsfeld said at the ceremony.
"The highest tribute we can pay to them is to commit ourselves to doing
everything possible to fight the extremists wherever they are, to
making every effort to stay united as a country, and to give our truly
outstanding men and women in uniform all that they need to succeed,"
Rumsfeld said. "And, I must add, to always give our troops the benefit of the
doubt. They deserve it."
Pace also emphasized a message of commitment on behalf of the military.
Since Sept. 11, more than 1.3 million Americans have served in Iraq,
Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf, and the number of servicemembers killed
in the war on terror is approaching the number of people killed on that
fateful day, he said.
"It is my privilege, as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, ...
to recommit to each of you and to the American people that the 2.4
million Americans, active, Guard and reserve, who wear the cloth of this
nation today recommit and promise you that we have one very simple
message for terrorists -- those who would seek to prevent this kind of a
gathering, those who seek to change our way of life -- and that simple
message is this: not on our watch," he said.
The nation will not forget the loss the families of the Sept. 11
victims have suffered, Pace said, even though no one may ever understand the
depths of pain they have gone through.
"There are no words that can soothe your pain and no way that we can
truly understand all the sacrifice that you have made," he said. "We hope
in some way that this remembrance today and the ceremonies like it all
over our country will tell you that we are with you; we will never
forget."
Multinational Corps Iraq held a 9/11
Remembrance Ceremony at the Al Faw palace here today, reminding everyone in
attendance why servicemembers stand on foreign ground today.
On Sept. 11, 2001, America was attacked by terrorists, resulting in the
death of 2,973 people.
"I will not forget the wound to our country and those who inflicted it;
I will not yield; I will not rest; I will not relent in waging this
struggle for freedom and security for the American people," President Bush
said nine days later.
Currently, U.S. Forces are involved in operations Iraqi and Enduring
Freedom, not only ensuring the safety of American soil from terrorist
attacks, but also securing the freedom of millions of Iraqi and Afghan
citizens.
The ceremony opened with the 76th Army Band playing the Iraqi national
anthem followed by the U.S. national anthem.
Chaplain (Col.) Kenneth Brown, command chaplain of Multinational Corps
Iraq, gave the invocation, followed by a summary of events read by Sgt.
Maj. Ivor Watson, of the command's combined joint staff. Then there was
a moment of remembrance for those who lost their lives on the day,
which for many, can never be forgotten.
Army Spc. Jose Burgos, a reservist with the 404th Civil Affairs
Battalion, from Fort Dix, N.J., who was an emergency medical technician who
provided care to victims of the World Trade Center attack, said it only
gets harder for him as the time goes by.
"I can't believe it was five years ago; it feels like yesterday," he
said. "It is hard to imagine. ... It is hard being here, doing the (mass
casualty) exercises, knowing I could be involved with something like
that again."
Burgos was one of eight soldiers directly involved in aid or support on
Sept. 11, 2001, that was in attendance for today's ceremony here.
U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad said the monument for the
victims and the heroes from that day is being constructed now.
"The true monument for the heroes and victims of 9/11 will not be made
of stone, but will be living monuments," he said. "The 50 million
people liberated from tyranny since that day. A free and prosperous Iraq
will stand as the ultimate testimony to the sacrifices you are making to
ensure that America remains secure from the threats posed by
terrorists."
Army Lt. Gen. Peter Chiarelli, commander of Multinational Corps Iraq,
gave everyone a sense of closeness to the victims from the horrific day
half a decade ago.
"They were mothers, fathers, daughters, sons and friends," he said.
"They were old, middle-aged and children. Men and women, boys and girls.
They were Americans, but they were also citizens of a dozen nations."
He went on to say that some of them were innocent bystanders, while
others were rescue workers and heroes who sacrificed their lives that day
to save others. Chiarelli said the terrorists didn't realize America's
determination to seek justice when they attacked U.S. soil.
"These murderers bet that the United States and its friends would stand
by and do nothing," he said. "They bet that we would shrink from our
duty and our purpose. They bet wrong.
"Over the last five years, the United States and its brave allies have
waged an offensive campaign against those who hate free nations and
free people," he continued. "Let there be no doubt, we will prevail in
this struggle."
Immediately after the terrorist attacks of
Sept. 11, 2001, the nation was thrown into a war-time mode, and the
public got a glimpse of the culture inside the Pentagon and the quality of
the people who work there, Vice President Richard B. Cheney said here
today.
"We saw a great deal to make us proud. Suddenly, our nation was at war,
and the switch to a war footing here was immediate," Cheney said at a
Pentagon memorial observance for family members of Sept. 11 victims.
"Everyone seemed to rush forward to help. Minutes after the attack,
Marines had organized a watch outside. The secretary of defense himself
helped carry out the wounded."
Within hours of the attacks, Pentagon officials were already holding
their first meeting to review military options. Meanwhile, a giant flag
unfurled at the building rallied the country, reminding the American
people how fortunate they are to have the men and women of the Pentagon on
duty, Cheney said.
In the five years since the attacks, America has needed the Defense
Department as much as ever, and has learned a lot from the global war on
terror, he said.
"We have learned that oceans do not protect us, and threats that gather
thousands of miles away can now find us here at home," he said. "We
have learned that there is a certain kind of enemy whose ambitions have no
limits and whose cruelty is only fed by the grief of others. And in
these years, we also found our mission: To defend America against a
present danger and to offer a democracy and hope as the alternative to
extremism and terror."
The war on terror has placed hard duties on the military and DoD,
Cheney said, but America has a history of championing the cause of liberty
and will not give up in the current struggle.
"In the conduct of this war, the world has seen the best that is in our
country," he said. "We have shown that Americans are a resolute people
clear in our purposes."
"This struggle is fierce, and it will be lengthy, but it is not
endless," he said. "Our cause is right, our will is strong. This great nation
will prevail."
Pentagon employees gathered here today to
remember those lost Sept. 11, 2001, as well as those serving in uniform
today in the global war on terror, with prayer, reflection and a
musical tribute by Selah, a contemporary Christian group.
The Pentagon's chaplains hosted the nondenominational Pentagon employee
memorial service, encouraging those in attendance to remember those
killed at the hands of terrorists five years ago today and to seek healing
in their faith.
"Your presence here pays tribute to those who lost their lives on
September the 11th of 2001," said Army Chaplain (Col.) William B. Broome
III, the Pentagon chaplain. "This morning we have gathered in this
auditorium to reflect on the events of that day. We have come here to remember
and to honor."
Those killed Sept. 11 "did not die for naught," he said, but left a
legacy for those left behind. "We are better people because they were in
our lives," he said.
Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) David Hicks, Army chief of chaplains and keynote
speaker at the service, recalled the pain of Sept. 11 and reminded the
audience of the strength that comes from adversity.
He urged people to remember not just those killed that day, but also
those now serving in the global war on terror, as well as their families.
"Everyone in uniform and in service -- civilian, military and families
-- understands that connection between what is happening on the
battlefield today and 2001, that terrible day when we were attacked," he said.
This recognition of enemies "who literally want to destroy us and stamp
us out" brings people together today to remember Sept. 11 and share a
common sense of purpose, he said.
"We assemble here today because we know we want to be able to see our
children and our grandchildren grow and dream their dreams and have
their children and their grandchildren and be able to live life and enjoy
life to the fullest that God intended life to be lived," Hicks said.
Broome offered prayers for those who "stand on the frontiers of
freedom" in helping ensure those liberties, as well as "for those who seek to
do us harm." He looked forward to a day when people will be able to
live in harmony, without war.
Today's service included Old and New Testament readings, prayers and
songs by Selah, including "You Raise Me Up" and "God Bless the Broken
Road."
Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee led
Little Rock's Freedom Walk today, marking the fifth anniversary of the
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the United States.
The Freedom Walk was established Sept. 11, 2005, as an opportunity to
reflect on the lives lost Sept. 11 and to honor U.S. military members
past and present and pay tribute to emergency responders who put their
lives on the line every day.
Little Rock's Freedom Walk was among more than 130 local Freedom Walks
being held today and this past weekend throughout the United States.
Huckabee, joined by representatives from the military, police, fire and
emergency response organizations, called today's event a reminder of
the resolve and spirit of America and the freedom all Americans share.
"The most important thing we have to do is remember that we can't keep
people from hating us or attacking us," he said. "But we can keep from
succumbing to the real hope of terrorism, and that is, we cease being a
people who love our freedom and value our liberties and are willing to
fight hard to keep them."
"Today was a great day to remember how we felt that day, but (also)
five years later, how we still love our country and are willing to fight
for it and preserve our freedom," he said.
The governor said the events of that day also brought into focus the
sacrifices of the men and women serving in police, fire department,
emergency response and military uniforms.
"One of the things 9/11 taught us was that we had failed to give the
proper level of appreciation and honor and respect for those in uniform,"
the governor said. "There were many people who ran to the World Trade
Center with cameras so they could see, but those in uniform ran to the
World Trade Center to save lives. We saw there was a real difference
between those who go to see something and those who go to serve and save
lives."
The Arkansas state adjutant general, Army Maj. Gen. Ron Chastain,
called Sept. 11 a reminder of the country's unity and strength, as well as
the sacrifices of local, federal and military members who work to keep
its citizens safe.
"Sept. 11, 2001, changed everything, and the United States has
changed," he said. "We've advanced in the war on terror and we have great
Americans fighting everyday to protect our freedoms."
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld
talked about the nature of terrorism as part of Radio Day at the Pentagon
today, the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Sept. 11, 2001, was the greatest loss of American life from a single
attack in U.S. history, he said. The death toll that day was nearly 3,000
people in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.
But the purpose of terrorism isn't to kill, but to terrorize, Rumsfeld
told Charlie Brennan of St. Louis' KMOX.
Fear causes people to alter their behavior, the secretary said. "As
free people, what we are about is being free," he said. "It is the ability
to go where you want and say what you want and think what you wish to
think."
Inherent in that freedom is the knowledge that when families send their
children off to school, they will come home safely, Rumsfeld said.
"For a terrorist to win, we have to be terrorized and we have to alter
our behavior," he said. "And we will not be terrorized.
"Terrorists want to frighten you into doing what they want you to do,"
Rumsfeld said. "The greatest thing about our country is we haven't been
frightened."
For example, Americans still fly in airplanes, he said. "We are wiser
and more careful, to be sure, but we are doing what we have to do," he
said.
The U.S. military is going after terrorists because defense alone does
not win wars. "A terrorist can attack at any time, at any place, using
any technique," Rumsfeld said. "It is not physically possible to defend
at every location, at every moment of the day or night, against every
conceivable technique. You have to go out and find them and go after
them."
Rumsfeld talked about his experiences in the Pentagon on Sept. 11,
2001, and recalled the bravery and compassion he witnessed. He remembered
an image he saw when he walked through the smoke to where the fire was
blazing and people were coming out of the building. "There was a woman,
probably 35 years old, who was injured and couldn't walk but who said,
'I can help. I can hold an IV,'" he said.
The secretary said he expects the war on terror to last a long time,
noting that al Qaeda was at war with the west for years before Sept. 11.
The al Qaeda murderers launched attacks on the USS Cole in Aden, Yemen,
bombed the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, and first struck the
World Trade Center in 1993.
Following the Sept. 11 attacks, al Qaeda launched attacks in other
countries, including Indonesia, Spain and England, Rumsfeld said. The group
and like-minded terrorists are trying to destabilize moderate Muslim
governments in the world and replace them with a fundamentalist
dictatorship, he said.
They won't be successful, Rumsfeld said, but overcoming them won't
happen overnight. "Is it going to take time?" he asked. "You bet."
The United States is much better off today than five years ago and
better able to defend itself, Rumsfeld said. "We've got 80 or 90 nations
who are together in a coalition and sharing information," he said.
Nations around the world are arresting terrorists "every day of the
week" and stopping them from carrying out attacks. "Some people take it
for granted that the United States hasn't been attacked in the last five
years," he said. "We don't take it for granted. It's an exceptional
accomplishment that we haven't been attacked."
Rumsfeld said U.S. opponents shouldn't read too much into the debate
going on in America today. "In a democracy, you are always going to have
people expressing different views," he said. "Politics is politics, and
Washington is filled with politics.
"In an election period, it becomes particularly noticeable. We're now
in the heat of the elections. In the next eight weeks this will be past
us, and people will be less political," he said. "I certainly hope so
anyway. It does make it difficult."
KABUL, Afghanistan , Sept. 8, 2006 - A suicide attack on a coalition convoy in central Kabul today killed two U.S. soldiers and wounded another.
U.S. officials in Afghanistan said the blast, near the U.S. Embassy in downtown Kabul, also killed an unconfirmed number of Afghan civilians. "Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and their fellow teammates," Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin C. Freakley, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 76, said. "Additionally, we are very sorry for the death of our Afghan allies who were killed by these Taliban extremists who care nothing about human decency or life." The U.S. soldiers were assigned to a Provincial Reconstruction Team helping to rebuild roads and schools, provide power, and complete hundreds of other projects to improve the lives of the Afghan people. "These acts of violence only confirm our resolve; we remain vigilant in our efforts to help the people of Afghanistan restore peace and security," Freakley said. "Their sacrifice will not be forgotten." With today's attack, 125 Afghan civilians and seven U.S. service members have been killed since January at the hands of the Taliban extremists in suicide bombings, officials said.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Vincent M. Frassetto, 21, of Toms River, N.J., died Sept. 7 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Vincent M. Frassetto, 21, of Toms River, N.J., died Sept. 7 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Pentagon Tours Announced The Pentagon Memorial site and the Americas Heroes Memorial located inside the Pentagon will be opened to the public for only the second time since the events of Sept. 11, 2001, on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT.
Honor Guard tour guides will lead tours and take questions during this special four-hour period. Tours will be provided on a first come, first served basis. Due to security measures, no photography is allowed on the Pentagon reservation. Also, visitors are asked to not bring large backpacks with them on the tour. Participants are encouraged to take the Metro to the Pentagon stop on the Blue and Yellow lines. After exiting the Metro, follow the signs around the south side of the Pentagon to the security area on the west end of the parking lot. Visitors driving to the tour should park in local commercial lots in Pentagon City and approach the Pentagon by the Hayes St. parking lot tunnel. For more information on the tour, please call (703) 697-1776.
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld will host the Pentagon Sept. 11 Memorial Observance for family members of those who perished in the Sept. 11 attack on the Pentagon.
The Memorial Observance will be open for interested media to cover. Press should arrive and check-in at 8:15 a.m. EDT at Memorial Gate accessible through the South Parking Lot. Check-in no later than 8:45 a.m. Present valid press credentials and a photo ID at Memorial Gate. Please fax credential requests including name and title on company letterhead to (202) 586-9987 no later than 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2006. Satellite truck parking will be in the Mall Terrace North Parking Lot accessible through the Mall Terrace Gate off Highway 110 Southbound. All cameras and cables must preset no later than 5:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 11.
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Sept. 8, 2006 - For the first time in its 52-year history, the Japan Air Self Defense Force began its first United Nations mission over the skies of Iraq Sept. 6.
The first flight of the new mission landed safely at Baghdad International Airport before returning to its forward deployed location in Southwest Asia later that day. The mission, transporting U.N. members and cargo for the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, adds to Japan's already established role of air transporting coalition troops and cargo. While the JASDF C-130s will continue the majority of their flights in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the planes now have a dedicated mission solely for personnel and cargo on U.N. flights. "Although the Japan Self Defense Force has experienced this kind of extended period in operations abroad, such as PKO (Peace Keeping Operations) in Cambodia, this is the first time the Air Self Defense Force has taken on a U.N. mission in Iraq ," said Col. Shunji Izutsu, Japanese liaison officer to U.S. Central Command Air Forces. "Not only does their taking this step mean a new page in Japanese history," said U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. William Holland, Deputy Combined Forces Air Component commander. "It also re-enforces Japan's dedication to helping secure the future of Iraq and winning the global war on terror." Izutsu said that Japanese airlift operations in support of the war in Iraq, consisting of nearly one-quarter of Japan's C-130 fleet, have been successful. They have not only transported Self Defense Force troops, but also continue to coordinate with the coalition on missions to safely transport other military and cargo. "This is a very significant event," Izutsu said. "I believe our partnership has also contributed to reinforcing the U.S.-Japan alliance. "The first goals of UNAMI were such as giving advice for a general election and drafting the constitution of Iraq," he continued. "With the government of Iraq established, UNAMI is trying to expand their activities to reconstruction, development and humanitarian support." The colonel said there have been no major problems with the addition of the U.N. mission and Japan is prepared to transport people and pallets as needed. He added that while preparation and ground support for United Nations are new issues, it is a good experience for the JASDF troops. "Our Japanese coalition and United Nations partners have undertaken a great step for their Air Self Defense Force by performing the UNAMI missions," said Holland. "They were asked by the United Nations to take on this role and, as a testament to their Air Self Defense Force, have transitioned seamlessly." The Japanese aircrew and support crews have been working in Iraq supporting the coalition with airlift since December 2003, so they have been flying missions and are familiar with transport missions in Iraq. The main difference now, Izutsu said, is the level of coordination for missions. "Since our current missions here require military-to-military coordination, it is fairly easy to be flexible. We can deal with any unexpected incidents quickly and adequately," he said. "Conversely, the coordination between the United Nations and our staff at the working level can, at times, prove difficult and time-consuming. Once these issues are resolved, our mission supporting UNAMI should become similar to the current mission." No matter what missions the Japanese C-130s are tasked to fly, they know their contributions play a key part in the global war on terror. "That Japan supports UNAMI while also participating in the coalition means Japan is putting a lot of effort to contribute to Iraqi reconstruction," Izutsu said "Stabilizing public security in Iraq by the coalition forces is a crucial condition," he added. "However, in addition to that, various kinds of international cooperation are necessary and the activity of UNAMI is one of them. If the JASDF mission becomes the contact point between United Nations and the coalition and facilitates mutual understanding between them, this should be meaningful for Iraqi reconstruction." Izutsu said that in order to understand the future of Iraq, people must look back at the history of both Japan and the United States, each of which went through devastating civil conflicts, but emerged as modern, stabilized nations. "I surely appreciate the coalition soldiers who are working very hard to stabilize Iraqi public security," he said. "Also, I pray for the souls for soldiers and innocent civilians who have been killed during this turmoil."
Tens of thousands of Americans in all 50 states and the District of Columbia are preparing to put on their walking shoes during the next few days as they participate in Freedom Walks to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001,
terrorist attacks and to honor veterans, past and present. Some 120 local Freedom Walks are being held in the coming days around the country, sponsored by local communities, civic groups, schools, churches and grassroots organizations. That's in addition to the second annual America Supports You Freedom Walk in Washington, D.C., which begins at the Washington Moment at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 10 and follows a two-mile path to the Pentagon. Last year's event attracted more than 15,000 participants, including family members who lost loved ones in the attacks. The response to that first Freedom Walk proved to be so strong, particularly among families who called it a healing experience, that officials recognized the importance of extending its reach. "We knew that we had to share the Freedom Walk with more than Washington, D.C.," Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Allison Barber said. "And that is why this year, on the fifth anniversary (of the attacks), that the Department of Defense has just thrown open the invitation to fellow Americans" so they can participate, too. Local communities have responded in a big way and will hold a full range of local Freedom Walks during the upcoming weekend through Sept. 11. White Sands Missile Range, N.M., became the first community to sponsor its local Freedom Walk yesterday, with dozens of its military and civilian employees participating. No two Freedom Walks are likely to look the same, Barber said. They'll range in size from big-scale citywide observances in Chicago, Oklahoma City, Washington and other cities, to simple, solemn walks like White Sands'. Some communities, like Aurora, Colo., are planning additional activities to correspond with their Freedom Walks. The city's walk tomorrow will feature country music star Tammy Cochran, who will perform at the Aurora Municipal Center, along with Allen Asbury, the Kory Brunson Band and North-40. Joining them will be Iraq war veteran Army Staff Sgt. Paul Brondhaver, who suffered almost 300 wounds after his convoy was attacked with a rocket-propelled grenade. Sacramento, Calif., has planned a full weekend of activities to lead up to its candlelit Freedom Walk on Sept. 11. "We expect to have a rousing program that'll culminate a couple of days of wonderful events around the Sacramento Valley," said Bill Jenest, a spokesman for the Sacramento chapter of Operation Homefront, the nonprofit group sponsoring the walk. Other Freedom Walks will be less structured. In Munster, Ind., participants will begin with a sunset ceremony, praying and listening to entertainment before beginning an informal walk through the Community Veterans Memorial Park. "We're not going to say, 'OK, now's the time to start walking,'" said Frank Darrington, post commander for the Munster Veterans of Foreign Wars and the city's Freedom Walk planner. "We're trying to leave this thing really loose and open so people can do as they please while here." The American Legion chapter in Milo, Iowa, population 1,000, also is planning a relatively simple event. Its four-block Freedom Walk through the downtown area will end with prayer and reflection at the city park. "We'll have a minister on hand to give a prayer, Ron Hensel, the walk's organizer and a member of Milo's American Legion post, said. "There'll be time for speakers if anyone cares to speak." But regardless of how elaborate or basic the Freedom Walks may be, Barber said, they'll share a common twofold goal: to remember the events of Sept. 11 and to honor the nation's veterans, past and present. "It's that combination of saying 'We won't forget,' and also that we will honor those who have, throughout the history of our country, chosen to defend the freedoms we hold so dear," she said. "The country needs a unifying activity and an opportunity to come together, and that's what the Freedom Walk is." "(Freedom Walks) allow various people to come together ... for no purpose other than to show support," agreed Jessica Williams, president of Indiana's third chapter of Blue Star Mothers of America, who is helping organize the Crawfordsville, Ind., Freedom Walk. "Yes, we may be going on with our lives, but there's a part of us that will always be affected." "We wanted to reflect on the events that happened on 9/11 at the Pentagon and the twin towers in New York City, and in Pennsylvania," said Vicki Sarracino, president of the Georgia chapter of Operation Homefront that is co-sponsoring the Atlanta Freedom Walk early Sept. 11. "And we also wanted to renew our commitment to freedom and the values of our country, and to honor the veterans past and present." Randy Coble, deputy director of public information for Dearborn, Mich., said his city's Freedom Walk will offer a way for people to gather together and reflect. "It's a way to come together and express what we all believe: that we need to remember the victims of Sept. 11 and that we need to make sure our men and women serving in harm's way know that we support them and appreciate their sacrifices," he said. Bob Batcher, project manager for the Freedom Walk in Norfolk, Va., said a recent visit to Ground Zero in New York reminded him of the importance of events like the Freedom Walk. "I think it's time for people to step up and say we're a unified country," he said. "I harken for the day where spontaneity meant putting a flag on your car. I want us to remember five years ago, when you couldn't buy a flag because so many people were buying them." Many event coordinators, sponsors and participants said they feel a personal connection to the events of Sept. 11 and the U.S. military. For example, a big turnout is expected in Oklahoma City, which experienced terrorism firsthand in April 1995, when terrorist Timothy McVeigh set off explosives that half-destroyed the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. In Sebring, Ohio, 9-year-old Colton Lockner immediately considered the safety of his uncle, Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Brian Joseph, when he read about Freedom Walks in a Weekly Reader newspaper article. Lockner took on the task of organizing Sebring's Freedom Walk as his summer project and expects about 5,000 participants. "(The walk) is to honor (servicemembers) and thank them for what they're doing for our country and to remember the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11," Colton said. "We're trying to get it to be an every-year thing, like a permanent holiday." At Fort Riley, Kan., more than 500 students at the post's Ware Elementary School, 99 percent of them military children, and 85 staff members dressed in red, white and blue will carry American flags participate in their local Freedom Walk. Pat Olmstead, the event organizer and family support monitor at the school, said she expects the Freedom Walk to emphasize a celebration of freedoms that many of the young children's parents are helping protect. Many have watched their parents go off on deployments in Iraq or Afghanistan one, two, even three times, and understand more than most children their ages that freedom isn't free, she said. Some day the children, many too young to remember the events of Sept. 11, will come to understand what happened to the United States that day and why their parents have been so important in fighting terror, she said. "Some day they are going to realize the price that was paid for their freedom." "It's just a great time to come out and honor the servicemembers past and present ... and those who lost their lives on Sept. 11 (2001)," said Beth Steinke, president of Operation Homefront-San Diego, the nonprofit group organizing San Diego's walk. "I just think that it's really important, as individuals ... as a community and as a country, to remember that we must always be vigilant and we should always be connected to each other." More information about the Freedom Walk is posted on DoD's America Supports You Web site. Barber has encouraged groups planning Freedom Walks to write to the Web site to share information about their events.
It was an "eerie feeling" returning to the United States after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, said Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace. Pace, then the commander of U.S. Southern Command, had just been confirmed as vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He was in Bogota, Colombia, when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York
and the Pentagon. "First, like all Americans I felt shock and anger," Pace said during a recent interview. That was followed by determination "and the certain knowledge ... that the vice chairman seat that I thought I was going to was going to be very different than what I thought." Pace said the Colombian military reached out to him on Sept. 11. "They made sure that when my plane landed in Cartegena, where we needed to refuel, that the security was rock-solid," he said. When Pace flew to the United States, all civilian aircraft had been ordered to land. Military air traffic controllers were handling all flights in the United States. "We experienced flying back in to the United States under (North American Aerospace Defense Command) control rather than the normal civilian controllers," Pace said. When he landed in Miami, his was the only airplane at the airport that was moving. "There were all of those things that were totally eerie and disjointed from what you would expect from any normal day," he said. The events of Sept. 11 certainly changed his job as vice chairman, a position he held for four years before becoming chairman. Normally, the vice chairman deals with budgeting, weapons systems acquisition and the like, Pace said. "I spent my four years as General (Richard B.) Myers' deputy for the war," he said. "I spent my time helping General Myers craft the advice he was giving here in Washington." The events also took Pace back to his military roots: going to war in Vietnam after his commissioning in 1967. "Now, almost 40 years later, the country is at war again. That's the bad news," he said. "The good news is we have tremendous young men and women who serve this country exceptionally well. We will do what we must do to defend our country and make sure that our families and all American get to live in freedom."
Fort Riley Children Remember 9/11 With Freedom Walk
The voices of more than 500 Ware
Elementary School "Bears" chimed together chanting "U-S-A," "We love
America" and other patriotic slogans yesterday as they paraded through the
McClellan Heights housing area here waving flags and banners during the
school's Freedom Walk.
The students and teachers walked to commemorate the fifth anniversary
of the Sept. 11 terrorists' attacks and to honor soldiers fighting in
the global war on terrorism.
Ware Elementary Principal Deb Gustafson said she knew the school
couldn't let the day go by unrecognized. Every one of the school's students
is the child of one if not two active-duty soldiers.
"We were looking for a way to remember today in a positive manner,"
Gustafson said. "It's a very historic day, and it should not go
unrecognized. However, it's also a very tragic day and can be met with a lot of
drama and tension."
When searching for a way to commemorate the day, Family Support
Coordinator Pat Olmstead came across the Freedom Walk concept on the Defense
Department's America Supports You Web site. Gustafson said school
officials thought a Freedom Walk would be the perfect way for students to
recall the day in a positive way "and ... to support the boots that are on
the ground in Iraq and in Afghanistan and the ones that responded to
the tragic events of 9/11."
With the help of the Junction City High School Band and ROTC cadets,
the Fort Riley Fire Department and soldiers from 4th Battalion, 1st Field
Artillery, plans for the parade were put into action.
The commemoration began yesterday morning as a cannon fired and the
Freedom Walk began. The students, flanked by soldiers and teachers leading
them in patriotic cheers and chants, walked a mile-long course through
the housing area where most of them live. Parents and community members
lined the walkways along the route, some with video cameras and flags.
Several had tears in their eyes.
"You know, as we think about remembering today, our kindergarteners
were born five years ago," Gustafson said, "so they have no memory of 9/11
other than what they're being told or what the see in the media. Even
our oldest students were only five or six years old at the time."
Kaileigh Solis, a second-grader at Ware Elementary School whose father
is an active-duty soldier, said she doesn't remember watching the
events of five years ago unfold on television. She learned about them from
her teacher at school.
"I think it was really important to me," Solis said of the Freedom
Walk, "because when (I heard that) the towers fell down, I felt sad."
For another Ware student, fourth-grader Kevin Giles, the walk meant
more about freedom and safety. "I feel real happy that it's a free country
and how we can be free and you don't have to worry about getting hurt
and stuff," he said.
Giles also said it made him feel good to see the spectators that lined
the parade route because he knows they appreciated living in a free
country.
Teaching the students who don't remember the day at all or were very
young when it happened is a challenge for the teachers.
"(Sept. 11) was a monumental day in our history, and we can't ignore
it," Gustafson said. "It has the potential to be a very, very sad and
depressing day as you think about what occurred five years ago, but we
want to turn it into more of a supportive day -- support for all of our
families who were impacted."
As a teacher and educator, Gustafson said the challenge is to help
ensure children understand what happened on Sept. 11 and remember those
lost, but to do so in a positive manner.
In addition to the school's military students, many of its teachers are
military spouses and feel very close personal ties to the Sept. 11
events, the military and the war on terror, she noted.
She advised teachers to steer clear of giving students too many details
about Sept. 11 that might upset them unless the students asked.
"We're just going to talk about the Freedom Walk and the fact that
we're supporting our moms and dads who are in the Army and who are at war,"
Gustafson said.
If the students did ask questions, Gustafson said, she told the
teachers to keep their answers factual. "Answer them directly and honestly
with the facts, but ... don't get into too much of the tragedy and the
death and the drama. Just keep it factual," she said.
Fourth-grader Noah Kelly watched the events on television five years
ago. For him, participating in the walk was fun, but also important "so
that we could honor the soldiers who serve the Army and all the people
who helped in 9/11 that died," he said.
On the five-year anniversary of the attacks, Gustafson said, the most
important thing for the teachers to instill in the students is the fact
that they do everything possible to keep the students safe. "We do not
want them to worry about terrorist acts," she said. "We don't want them
worrying that something like that can happen to them.
"The Army is dad's job," Gustafson said she tells the students. "The
Army is mom's job. Your job is being a 'Ware Bear.' Your job is to show
up every day here and learn. That's your mission."
Surrounded by a breathtaking
panorama of foothills painted in a variety of hues by warm, late-afternoon
sunshine, hundreds of Californians gathered yesterday at the Ronald
Reagan Presidential Library here for Simi Valley's inaugural Freedom Walk.
It was one of more than 200 such events held in all 50 states over the
last three days to remember the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001,
terrorist attacks on the United States and to honor America's veterans, past
and present.
R. Duke Blackwood, executive director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential
Library and Foundation, said that he asked his 12-year-old daughter and
her friends as he was driving them to school if they knew the
significance of the day. They all knew it was the fifth anniversary of the
terrorist attacks.
"While it is a somber anniversary," he said, "it is refreshing to know
that these young women know about this date and are thinking about it,
even learning from it. And that is why we are here today."
The anniversary, he told the Freedom Walkers, is a time to think about
the past and to look toward the future. "Nothing short of our way of
life is at stake," he said. "The enemy will not be easy, but history
shows that usually is the case. But history also demonstrates that the
American people and our resolve are second to none. We will prevail."
Blackwood evoked Reagan's words in summing up a task that remains
before the nation: "America has already succeeded where so many other
historic attempts of freedom have failed. Already we have made this cherished
land the last, best hope of mankind. It is up to us in our generation
to carry on the hallowed task. It is up to us, however we may disagree
on policies, to work together for progress and humanity so that our
grandchildren, when they look back on us, can truly say that we not only
preserved the flame of freedom, but cast its warmth and light further
than those who came before us."
U.S. Rep. Elton Gallegly noted the anniversary's solemnity as a day of
renewing condolences to the families and friends of the victims and
commending the heroes who responded. "That is how it should be," he said.
"Civilized people respect life. We grieve when it's taken from us. It's
only right that we remember 9/11, its victims and its heroes."
Though the United States is safer than it was five years ago, he said,
it's still not safe. "And we will not be safe until our enemies are
defeated, and totally defeated." He cited the recently foiled plot to blow
up airliners flying from Great Britain to the United States and a new
message from al Qaeda released yesterday promising more attacks. "Our
enemies are plotting constantly, and we must remain constantly vigilant,"
he said.
Calling terrorists "cowardly thugs," the congressman said that while
different views exist on how to fight the war, there's no disagreement
that it must be fought and won. "We're Americans," he said. "We do not
bow to terrorism. The heroes who died in those four planes and three
buildings on 9/11 will never be forgotten."
Navy Capt. Brad Connors, commanding officer of Naval Base Ventura
County, Calif., noted than an old F-14 Tomcat fighter jet is on permanent
display on the library grounds as a testament to Reagan's commitment to
fighting terrorism.
In October 1985, Reagan directed two F-14s to intercept an Egyptian
airliner and force it to land in Sicily, Connors said. Four passengers
aboard the airliner, including infamous terrorist Abu Abbas, were then
arrested for their roles in the hijacking of the Italian cruise ship
Achille Lauro and the murder of a wheelchair-bound American passenger on the
cruise ship.
"A Navy F-14 resides here with honor not because of its warfighting
capability, but because it symbolizes President Ronald Reagan's commitment
to fighting terror and promoting freedom," Connors said. "And through
its unconventional use, this war machine illustrated the new U.S. model
for dealing with terrorists -- offensive engagement. No more free
passes for terrorists."
Bill Fischer of Simi Valley, a Vietnam veteran, said he and his wife,
Diane, came out for the Freedom Walk to show respect. "My grandfather
was in World War I and World War II," he said. "My dad was in World War
II; we're a very patriotic family."
Another walker, Jan Ward of Simi Valley, proudly wore pictures of her
son -- Air Force Reserve Senior Airman Douglas Brock, a Fremont, Calif.,
police officer in civilian life who recently returned from a deployment
to Iraq -- on her shirt. But, she said, she wasn't walking just to
support her son.
"I don't have just one son now," she said. "I have a million sons and
daughters in the armed forces I worry about every day."
MilitaryConnection.com, a member organization of the Defense
Department's America Supports You program, sponsored the Simi Valley Freedom
Walk. America Supports You highlights corporate and grassroots efforts to
support American servicemembers and their families. The Simi Valley
event was among more than 130 Freedom Walks throughout the United States
during the past weekend and yesterday that commemorated the fifth
anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Mission Systems, Colorado
Springs, Colo., is being awarded a $589,591,938 firm-fixed-price, indefinite
delivery/indefinite quantity, cost-plus-fixed fee, and cost-plus-award
fee contract to provide for Air and Space Operations Center Weapon
System Integrator to include fielding, sustainment, system engineering,
integration, modernization, maintenance, management, and contingency
support for Air and Space Operations Center. The Air Force can issue
delivery orders totaling up to the maximum amount indicated above, although
the actual requirements may be less than the amount above. At this time,
$3,999,596 has been obligated. This work will be complete August 2010.
PA POC is Ms Monica Morales, (781) 377-8543. Headquarters Electronic
Systems Center, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting
activity (FA8706-06-D-0003-0001).
Cal-Pac Engineering Co., Inc., Los Angeles, Calif., is being awarded a
$6,566,869 firm-fixed-price, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity
contract to provide for construction services to include any support for
airfield asphalt and concrete paving. At this time, $50,000 has been
obligated. Solicitations began May 2006 and negotiations were complete
August 2006. This work will be complete September 2011. Air Education and
Training Command, Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., is the contracting
activity. (FA4887-06-D-0003)
ARMY
Esterline Armtec Countermeasures Inc., Coachella, Calif., was awarded
on Sept. 8, 2006, a $27,124,592 modification to a firm-fixed-price
contract for M206 and MJU-7A/B IR countermeasure flares. Work will be
performed in East Camden, Ark., and is expected to be completed by May 30,
2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. There were two bids solicited on Aug. 4, 2006, and two bids were
received. The U.S. Army Field Support Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the
contracting activity (W52P1J-04-C-0096).
Kilgore Flares Co., L.L.C., Toone, Tenn., was awarded on Sept. 8, 2006,
a $23,345,984 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for M206 and
MJU-7A/B IR countermeasure flares. Work will be performed in Toone,
Tenn., and is expected to be completed by May 30, 2007. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids
solicited on Aug. 4, 2006, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army
Field Support Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity
(W52P1J-04-C-0097).
W. Boyd Construction Co. Inc.*, Omaha, Neb., was awarded on Sept. 8,
2006, an $11,408,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a
child development center. Work will be performed at Offutt Air Force Base,
Neb., and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2008. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 54
bids solicited on July 28, 2006, and six bids were received. The U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity
(W9128F-06-C-0041).
Sierra Nevada Corp.*, Hagerstown, Md., was awarded on Sept. 8, 2006, a
$7,433,300 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Airborne Reconnaissance
Multi-Sensor Quick Reaction Capability Systems. Work will be performed in
Hagerstown, Md., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 26, 2007.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 29, 2006. The U.S. Army
Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the
contracting activity (W15P7T-06-C-M607).
NAVY
McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Boeing Co.,
St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $16,939,562 modification to a
previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery,
indefinite-quantity contract (N68335-05-D-0009) for 10 advanced targeting forward
looking infrared intermediate level shop replaceable assembly operational
test program sets for use with consolidated automated support systems.
Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo., and is expected to be completed
in November 2008. Contract funds in the amount of $16,939,562 will
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center
Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.
180s LLC,* Baltimore, Md. is being awarded $10,812,308 for delivery
order (0002) under previously awarded
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-05-D-3067) for 76,108 combat
desert jackets, which are outer garments used to enhance the Marine's
survivability in a high desert and a cold/dry environment. Work will be
performed in Tullahoma, Tenn., and is expected to be completed February
2009. Contract funds in the amount of $10,812,308 will expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico,
Va., is the contracting activity.
Coakley & Williams Construction Inc., Gaithersburg, Md., is being
awarded $7,961,000 for firm-fixed-price Task Order 0001 under previously
awarded multiple award contract (N62477-04-D-0034) for the repair and
rehabilitation of Building 2008 at the U.S. Marine Corps Base, Quantico,
Va. The work will be performed at the U.S. Marine Corps Base, Quantico,
Va., and is expected to be complete by January 2008. Contract funds
will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was
competitively procured via the Naval Facilities Engineering Command
e-solicitation website with 17 proposals received and award made to seven
contractors on July 22, 2004. Two proposals were received for this Task
Order. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, Washington,
D.C., is the contracting activity.
* Small Business
Two U.S. soldiers died in separate incidents in Iraq yesterday,
and officials have identified 13 servicemembers who died during war on terrorism operations in the past two weeks. A soldier assigned to 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, died due to injuries suffered from enemy action in Anbar province. Elsewhere, a Task Force Band of Brothers soldier from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, was shot and killed while executing a mission near Hawija. No further details on either incident were available. Officials are withholding the soldiers' identities pending notification of next of kin. Defense Department officials have identified 13 other servicemembers who died serving in the global war on terrorism: · Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher G. Walsh, 30, of St. Louis, died Sept. 4 while his unit was conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Anbar province. Walsh was serving as a medical corpsman with Multinational Corps Iraq. He was assigned to the Navy Reserve 3rd Battalion, 24th Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Bridgetown, Mo. · Marine Cpl. Jared M. Shoemaker, 29, of Tulsa, Okla., died Sept. 4 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Broken Arrow, Okla. · Army Pfc. Hannah L. Gunterman, 20, of Redlands, Calif., died Sept. 4 in Taji, Iraq, from a non-combat related cause. Gunterman was assigned to the 542nd Maintenance Company, 44th Corps Support Battalion, Fort Lewis, Wash. · Marine Lance Cpl. Eric P. Valdepenas, 21, of Seekonk, Mass., died Sept. 4 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Ayer, Mass. · Army Sgt. 1st Class Richard J. Henkes II, 32, of Portland Ore., died Sept. 3 of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Henkes was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis. · Marine Lance Cpl. Shane P. Harris, 23, of Las Vegas, N.M., died Sept. 3 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif. · Marine Pvt. Ryan E. Miller, 21, of Gahanna, Ohio, died Sept. 3 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. · Army Staff Sgt. Eugene H.E. Alex, 32, of Bay City, Mich., died Sept. 2 in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries suffered Aug. 30 in Baghdad, when he encountered enemy forces using small-arms fire. Alex was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. · Army Sgt. Ralph N. Porras, 36, of Merrill, Mich., and Pfc. Justin W. Dreese, 21, of Northumberland, Pa., died in Yusifiyah, Iraq, on Sept. 2 of injuries suffered from mortar fire during dismounted combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C. · Army Staff Sgt. Angel D. Mercado-Velazquez, 24, died in Yusifiyah, Iraq, on Sept. 1 of injuries suffered from mortar fire during dismounted combat operations. Mercado-Velazquez was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg. · Army Sgt. Matthew J. Vosbein, 30, of Metairie, La., died Aug. 29, in Sadr al Yusifiyah, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. Vosbein was assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. · Army Cpl. Shannon L. Squires, 25, of Virginia Beach, Va., died in Brooke Army Medial Center, San Antonio, on Aug. 28, of injuries suffered along Main Supply Route Tampa, in Iraq, on April 21, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his convoy vehicle. Squires was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 321 Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade, 18th Airborne Corps Artillery, Fort Bragg.
DoD Announces Air Force Airman as Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown
The Department of Defense announced today the identity of an airman listed as Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown (DUSTWUN). Maj. Jill M. Metzger was last seen at a Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, shopping center on Sept. 5. Maj. Metzger is assigned to the 347th Mission Support Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, Ga., and was on temporary duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom at Manas Air Force Base, Kyrgyzstan. An investigation is ongoing.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Germaine L. Debro, 33, of Omaha, Neb., died on Sept. 4 in Balad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Debro was assigned to the Army National Guard 1st Squadron, 167th Cavalry Regiment, Fremont, Neb.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lt. Col. Marshall A. Gutierrez, 41, of New Mexico, died on Sep. 4 in Camp Virginia, Kuwait, from non-combat related injuries. Gutierrez was assigned to the Area Support Group, Arijan, Kuwait.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Jeremy R. Shank, 18, of Jackson, Mo., died on Sept. 6 in Balad, Iraq, of injuries suffered in Hawijah, Iraq, when he encountered enemy forces using small arms fire during a dismounted security patrol. Shank was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
CONTRACTS
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Valero Marketing and Supply Co., San Antonio, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $288,789,146 fixed price with economic price adjustment for jet fuel for Defense Energy Support Center (DESC). Other location of performance is Benicia, Calif. This is a 12-month indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity type contract. There were 66 proposals solicited and 17 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is DESC, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-06-D-0503). Chevron Global Aviation, San Ramon, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $58,946,916 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for turbine fuel for DESC. Other location of performance is Salt Lake City, Utah. This is a 12-month indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract. There were 66 proposals solicited and 17 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is DESC, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-06-D-0504). Sinclair Refining Corp., Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a maximum $47,505,170 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for turbine fuel for DESC. Other location of performance is Sinclair, Wyo. This is a 12-month indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract. There were 66 proposals solicited and 17 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-06-D-0514). Holly Refining and Marketing Co., Dallas, Texas, * is being awarded a maximum $15,282,784 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for turbine fuel for DESC. Other location of performance is Woods Cross, Utah. This is a 12-month indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract. There were 66 proposals solicited and 17 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is DESC, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-06-D-0515). Montana Refining Co., Inc., Great Falls, Mont., * is being awarded a maximum $6,775,010 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for turbine fuel for DESC. This is a 12-month indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract. There were 66 proposals solicited and 17 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is DESC, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-06-D-0513). ARMY The McCarty Corp., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Sept. 5, 2006, a $30,791,000 firm-fixed-price contract for replacement of all existing deteriorated and failed components to several buildings. Work will be performed at Fort Jackson, S.C., and is expected to be completed by June 2, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 430 bids solicited on June 29, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912HN-06-C-0061). B and M Torix (Joint Venture), Colorado Springs, Colo., was awarded on Sept. 5, 2006, a $21,277,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction for road realignment and infrastructure. Work will be performed at Fort Carson, Colo., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 8, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 30 bids solicited on July 6, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity (W9128F-06-C-0040). General Dynamics, Marion, Ill., was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, a $13,710,629 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for 20mm PGU-28A/B SAPHEI cartridges. Work will be performed in Marion, Ill., and is expected to be completed by July 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were three bids solicited on April 5, 2005, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Sustainment Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-05-C-0073). Cobalt-PCS (Joint Venture)*, Las Vegas, Nev., was awarded on Sept. 5, 2006, a $5,489,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of the 944th Civil Engineering Squadron Building. Work will be performed at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 7, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on July 13, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0045). AIR FORCE The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn., is being awarded a $25,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract. This action provides for services, training and development of materials supporting the Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st century. At this time, $500,000 has been obligated. Solicitations began August 2006 and negotiations were complete August 2006. This work will be complete September 2011. Air Force District of Washington, Bolling Air Force Base, D.C., is the contracting activity (FA7014-06-D-0019). NAVY Hightower Construction Co., Inc.* Charleston, S.C.; HITT Contracting, Inc., North Charleston, S.C.; Tesoro Corporation, Virginia Beach, Va.; Barlovento LLC* Dothan, Ala., and Atlantic Marine Construction Co., Inc.* Virginia Beach, Va., are being awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity construction contracts under a multiple award construction contract. The total contract amount is not to exceed $30,000,000 (base period and four one-year options). Hightower Construction Co., Inc., is being awarded $423,000 for first task order for the base bid, item 0001, to build 90 fire station renovation/additions and $164,000 for option one, item 0002, for all work associated with the new garage addition including the building and the sitework indicated in Project Program Engineering Systems Requirements G2010 at the Naval Weapons Station, Charleston, S.C. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by September 2007. The remaining four contractors are being awarded the minimum guarantee of $25,000. The work to be performed provides for general type projects (new construction and renovation) including: roofing, demolition, routine renovation and repair of facilities and infrastructure including: 1) aviation and aircraft facilities, 2) marine facilities, 3) barracks and personnel housing facilities, 4) administrative facilities, 5) warehouses and supply facilities, 6) medical and dental facilities, 7) abatement and handling of hazardous/regulated materials (including and not limited to asbestos, lead paint, mold remediation and PCBs), and 8) the civil, sanitary, storm water, mechanical and electrical systems for the Area of Responsibility of South Division Field Office Charleston. Work will be performed at various facilities for activities in the area of responsibility of Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southeast Field Office Charleston, S.C. These areas will include the Reserve Centers for Wilmington, Raleigh, Greensboro, Charlotte, and Ashville, North Carolina and Greenville, South Carolina. In addition to the Reserve Centers above, this requirement will also cover Shaw Air Force Base (AFB), Charleston AFB, and other various agencies. The expected date of completion is September 2007 (September 2011 with options). Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The solicitation was issued on the NAVFAC e-solicitation website as a two-phase design/build multiple award solicitation inviting full and open competition with a potential set-aside for one 8(a) eligible, one HUBZone eligible contractor, and two unrestricted firms. Sixteen contractors responded to the Phase I solicitation. Seven contractors were chosen to proceed to Phase II, including two 8(a) eligible contractors. The potential awards will be made to one HubZone firm, two 8A firms, and two Large Business firms. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast, North Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity (N62467-06-D-0071/0152/0153/0154/0155). General Electric Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a $14,004,831 ceiling priced order (GG48) under an existing basic ordering agreement contract (FA8140-05-G-0003) for combustion liners used on the T64 engine on the H53 aircraft. Work will be performed in Lynn, Mass., and is expected to be completed by December 2009. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point is the contracting activity. Northrop Grumman Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded a $9,800,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the procurement of six third-generation electro-optics console sets. Work will be performed in Rolling Meadows, Ill. (90 percent) and Santa Barbara, Calif. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed in February 2008. Contract funds in the amount of $500,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-06-C-0420). Zeiders Enterprises, Inc., Woodbridge, Va., is being awarded an $8,948,459 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price and time and material pricing contract for contractor support services for the operations of the fleet and family support centers of Hampton Roads, Va. and mobile education and training services to Navy installation within the Mid-Atlantic Region. This contract includes a base year and four one-year options periods, which if exercised, would bring the estimated value of the contract to $45,889,301. Work will be performed at Norfolk Naval Base, Norfolk, Va. (43 percent); Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Norfolk, Va. (18 percent); Naval Air Station, Oceana, Va. (17 percent); Naval Weapons Station, Yorktown, Va. (16 percent); and Northwest, Chesapeake, Va. (6 percent), and work is expected to be completed by September 2007. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was awarded through full and open competition, with two offers received. The Fleet and Industrial Supply Center, Norfolk, Va. is the contracting activity (N00189-06-D-0086). * Small Business
The Department of Defense will host in a number of events within the National Capital Region to help commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
: Saturday, Sept. 9: 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. - PENTAGON MEMORIAL SITE TOURS Accompany tour groups with a Pentagon Tour Guide as they see the Pentagon Memorial site, the impact site, and Memorial Area outside the Pentagon Chapel. Interested media will first pass through security screening in the South Pentagon Parking Lot then ask for LTC Brian Maka or CDR Greg Hicks. Parking will be available in a media lot at the South Pentagon Parking Lot. Media should contact DoD Public Affairs at (703) 697-5131 for access. Sunday, Sept. 10: 5 P.M. TO 10 P.M., AMERICA SUPPORTS YOU FREEDOM WALK For the second year, thousands of Americans will gather in Washington, D.C. to walk in a national tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks and to honor our veterans, past and present. The 2006 Freedom Walk will begin on the National Mall between the Washington Monument and the WWII Memorial at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, proceed across Memorial Bridge and conclude at the Pentagon South Parking lot, immediately adjacent to the crash site. Following the Freedom Walk, there will be a musical tribute from renowned mezzo soprano Denyce Graves and a light display featuring 184 beams of light, one for each life lost at the Pentagon, which will remain illuminated dusk 'til dawn each day until dawn on Sept. 12. Media wishing to participate in the Freedom Walk should check-in at the press table on the Mall site beginning at 4:30 p.m. Additionally, there will be four media sites (details follow) for photo opportunities along the secure walk route. Once the roads close at 5 p.m., golf carts will be available to shuttle media along the route in the direction of the Walk. Media may be dropped off at any point along the route, but once they have been dropped off, they cannot get back on the cart or return to the Mall. MEDIA SITE 1: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Peter Pace, will make opening remarks and then lead the Freedom Walk with students and faculty members from three local schools whose students and teachers perished on Flight 77. Interested media will have access to the Washington Memorial site beginning at 4:30 p.m., with opening remarks at 6:30 p.m., and the Freedom Walk stepping off at 6:45 p.m. Media should check in at the Media Tent at 17th St. and Constitution Avenue between the Washington Monument and World War Two Memorial. Satellite trucks should park at Independence Avenue near the Survey prior to 5pm. Roads will close at 5pm and trucks will not be able to move again until the roads reopen around 8:30pm. MEDIA SITE 2: Photo opportunity to capture walkers cresting Memorial Bridge as they proceed on the Freedom Walk toward the Pentagon on the Rotary circle on the Virginia-side of the Memorial Bridge. Press check-in will begin on site at 4 p.m., with media in position by 5 p.m. when roads will close. MEDIA SITE 3: Pentagon South Parking Lot at the conclusion of the Freedom Walk. Denyce Graves, the renowned mezzo soprano who performed "America The Beautiful" and "The Lord's Prayer" during the memorial service for the victims of Sept. 11 at the National Cathedral on Sept. 14, 2001, will headline a musical tribute and light demonstration featuring 184 beams of light, one for each life lost at the Pentagon. Interested media with satellite trucks may park in the South Pentagon Parking Lot media parking area no earlier than noon, and no later than 4 p.m. for security screening. After screening, ask for Cdr. Greg Hicks or Roxie Merritt for further information on where the media riser and cut riser are located. Media should contact DoD Public Affairs at (703) 697-5131 for access. MEDIA SITE 4: Limited space is available at the CITGO gas station between the Pentagon and Navy Annex. Interested media can station themselves to use the Pentagon as a backdrop and capture the light demonstration. Media should contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342 for access. Monday, Sept. 11: ALL DAY. PENTAGON SEPT. 11 MEMORIAL OBSERVANCE Monday marks the 5th Anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the Pentagon.
DoD is spending almost $3.5 billion this year to defeat improvised explosive devices, and the effort's leader today said he expects the same level of funding in fiscal 2007.
Retired Army Gen. Montgomery C. Meigs said the Joint IED Defeat Organization is using an all-encompassing approach to counter the threat of IEDs, terrorists' main weapon in attacks against coalition forces and civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan. In Iraq alone, IEDs have killed almost 1,000 servicemembers. There is no "silver bullet" solution to the leading cause of death for coalition troops, Meigs told media during a briefing in the organization's headquarters here. IEDs are a complex problem posed by a networked terrorist foe. For example, Meigs said, the enemy has changed preferred triggers for IEDs about every six to nine months to stay ahead of U.S. military countermeasures. IEDs are generally nothing more than artillery shells the enemy plants in the ground rather than shoots from a howitzer or mortar. The specifics of the battlefields in Iraq and Afghanistan and the type of counterinsurgency operations being fought there negate much of the advantage superior coalition forces typically enjoy against conventional foes, Meigs said. Fighting a conventional war means keeping the enemy far away and then killing them before they can kill you. "The whole impetus is to keep them away," he said. In Iraq and Afghanistan, the battlefield is towns, villages, cities and rural areas, where it is tough to tell friend from enemy. As a result, the enemy gets close to coalition targets. "This is a very cagey enemy who has the advantage of going to the marketplace for his (research and development)," Meigs said. "(The enemy) takes advantage of local tribal environmental factors to deliver his fires very close to the target. This is just his artillery system; that's the way we have to think about it. There's no mystery here. The curiosity is in how it is delivered. "We are making progress in defeating this system," he said. "But we've got to have operational and strategic patience. You are not going to solve this overnight," he added. The general likened the effort to minimize damage from IEDs to the effort the Allies used against the U-boat menace of World War II. That effort took years and the brainpower of thousands on both sides of the Atlantic, and it took the bravery of hundreds of thousands of sailors to finally counter the threat. The best way to stop the IED threat is to not have the devices planted in the first place. Meigs said attacking the terror network is the key to that. Good intelligence and targeting terror cells -- taking them down from top to bottom -- is the best offensive tactic. Tips from Iraqis have been most helpful in handling the threat. Unfortunately, tips in Iraq have dropped in the past few months as sectarian violence has flared, he said. In April, there were 5,900 civilian tips. In July, that number dropped to 3,700. Degrading the terror network is also proceeding. Meigs said the coalition has taken out 11 "tier 1" terrorists, or national leaders. Coalition forces have taken out 76 "tier 2" terrorists, or provincial leaders. They have killed or captured 134 tier 3 terrorists since January 2005. Defeating the devices once they are planted is the heart of the defensive effort against IEDs. The organization has funded additional armor to be used against the "explosively formed penetrators." The kits are being added to all armored vehicles in Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition, the organization is funding IED-detection systems, electronic countermeasures and new ways to neutralize the devices. Training the force is also important to defeating this threat. The organization is involved with getting feedback from troops confronting the threat and ensuring it is embedded in training troops deploying to Iraq or Afghanistan. Meigs -- who commanded NATO troops in Bosnia in the 1990s -- said realistic training is a must for countering the threat. Meigs said the combination of efforts is working. Even as terrorists have increased the number of IEDs planted, the number of U.S. casualties from the devices has remained about the same. The Joint IED Defeat Organization will continue to fund promising technologies, test capabilities and improve training for those deploying.
Five years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, the United States is safer because it's made sweeping changes to close security gaps revealed that day and has taken the terrorist fight to the enemy, President Bush said today
in Marietta, Ga. Bush, addressing the Georgia Public Policy Foundation during his fourth major speech in the past week about the terror war, provided a progress report on steps taken since Sept. 11 to protect the American people and win the war against extremism. The past five years have seen "an unprecedented campaign" that has succeeded in protecting the homeland from another terrorist attack, he said. Bush outlined gaps in U.S. security exposed through the Sept. 11 attacks -- gaps he said allowed terrorists to plan the attacks, train to carry them out, board U.S. jetliners and kill almost 3,000 people -- and ways the nation has helped close these gaps. Myriad initiatives within the U.S. government since Sept. 11 have helped make it far more difficult for terrorists to carry out an attack like the one that claimed 3,000 lives that day, he said. But Bush emphasized that other attacks elsewhere in the world demonstrate that extremists haven't given up their dreams of striking out against the United States. "Five years later, America still faces determined enemies, and we won't be safe until those enemies are defeated," he said. The events of Sept. 11 revealed exactly how serious that enemy is and how committed it is to its cause, the president said. "9/11 lifted the veil on a threat that is far broader and more dangerous than we saw that morning: an enemy that was not sated by the destruction inflicted that day and is determined to strike again," the president said. "To answer this threat and to protect our people, we need more than retaliation, we more than a reaction to the last attack," he said. "We need to do everything in our power to stop the next attack, and so America has gone on the offense across the world." Bush cited some of the results of that offensive: -- Capturing or killing many of the most significant al Qaeda members and associates; -- Killing Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, leader of al Qaeda in Iraq and one of the organization's most visible and aggressive leaders to emerge after 9/11; -- Helping change governments targeted for overthrow by terrorist groups, such as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, to become valuable allies in the war on terror; -- Helping establish democracies in Afghanistan and Iraq, former sponsors of terrorism; -- Forming a 90-nation coalition, the largest in the history of warfare, to find terrorists, dry up their funds, stop their plots and bring them to justice; -- Launching the Proliferation Security Initiative, in which more than 70 nations are cooperating to stop shipments related to weapons of mass destruction; -- Working with Russia on a new global initiative to combat nuclear terrorism; -- Cooperating with Great Britain to persuade Libya to give up its nuclear weapons program; -- Uncovering the A.Q. Khan black market nuclear network, "now out of business," that was shipping equipment to Iran and North Korea; and -- Helping the world unite in urging Iran to end its support of terror and give up its nuclear weapons ambitions. The president emphasized that despite progress made, challenges remain ahead in defeating terrorism: Osama bin Laden and his deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, remain in hiding. Al Qaeda continues its terror campaign with deadly attacks. Terrorists and insurgents in Iraq have killed American troops and thousands of Iraqis. Syria and Iran continue their support for terror and extremism. Hezbollah has taken innocent lives in Israel and succeeded briefly in undermining Lebanon's democratic government. Hamas stands in the way of peace with Israel. All the while, extremists are leading an aggressive propaganda campaign to spread lies about the United States and incite Muslim radicalism. "The enemies of freedom are skilled, and they are sophisticated, and they are waging a long and determined war," the president said. "The free world must understand the stakes of this struggle. The free world must support young democracies. The free world must confront the evil of these extremists. The free world must draw the full measure of our strength and resources to prevail." Bush reminded the audience that, from the first days after Sept. 11, he had warned them they were in for a long, difficult struggle. "I told the American people that this would be a long war, a war that would look different from others we have fought, with difficulties and setbacks along the way," he said. "The past five years have proven that to be true. The past five years have also shown what we can achieve when our nation acts with confidence and resolve and clear purpose." As the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks nears, Bush expressed confidence that the United States is on the right track. "Five years after Sept. 11, 2001, America is safer and America is winning the war on terror," he said. "With vigilance, determination (and) courage, we will defeat the enemies of freedom, and we will leave behind a more peaceful world for our children and our grandchildren."
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Hannah L. Gunterman, 20, of Redlands, Calif., died on Sept. 4 in Taji, Iraq, from a non-combat related cause. Gunterman was assigned to the 542nd Maintenance Company, 44th Corps Support Battalion, Fort Lewis, Wash. This incident is under investigation. DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers
who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.They died in Yusifiyah, Iraq, on Sept. 2 of injuries suffered from mortar fire during dismounted combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C. Killed were: Sgt. Ralph N. Porras, 36, of Merrill, Mich. Pfc. Justin W. Dreese, 21, of Northumberland, Pa.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Angel D. Mercado-Velazquez, 24, died in Yusifiyah, Iraq, on Sept. 1 of injuries suffered from mortar fire during dismounted combat operations.Mercado-Velazquez was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. 1st Class Richard J. Henkes II, 32, of Portland Ore., died on Sept. 3 of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Henkes was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
CONTRACTS
ARMY GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 29, 2006, a delivery order amount of $6,764,591 as part of a $4,808,816,230 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the retrofit of remote weapon stations for the stryker vehicles. Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 14, 2005. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-M051). Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group, Pasadena, Calif., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $154,342,522 increment as part of a $1,036,569,242 cost-plus-award-fee contract for continued chemical agency neutralization operations leading to the closure of the Newport Chemical Agent Disposal Facility. Work will be performed in Newport, Ind., and is expected to be completed by May 31, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 32 bids solicited on March 9, 1998, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Sustainment Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (DAAA09-99-C-0016). Hensel Phelps Construction Co., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a delivery order amount of $30,676,500 as part of a $165,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of the Brigade Combat Team complex and tactical equipment maintenance facilities. Work will be performed at Fort Bliss, Texas, and is expected to be completed by July 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 17, 2006, and ten bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer District, Tulsa, Okla., is the contracting activity (W912BV-06-D-2019). Raytheon Co., West Andover, Mass., was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a delivery order amount of $135,106,765 as part of a $376,740,530 firm-fixed-price contract for procurement of new spares to support and maintain the Patriot Missile System. Work will be performed in Andover, Mass., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Sept. 3, 2003. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-05-D-0029). Archer Western Contractors, Atlanta, Ga., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $62,439,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of Infantry Brigade Combat Team Barracks Phase I. Work will be performed at Fort Knox, Ky., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 1, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on July 21, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0048). J.D. Abrams L.L.P., Austin, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a delivery order amount of $57,905,829 as part of a $57,905,829 firm-fixed-price contract for providing the materials, equipment, and labor for the construction of the BCT-1 infrastructure. Work will be performed at Biggs Airfield, Fort Bliss, Texas, and is expected to be completed by March 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were five bids solicited on Aug. 1, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer District, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-06-D-0030). Lockheed Martin Corp., Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $46,931,073 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for Block IA Army Tactical Missile System variants (unitary) guided missile and launching assemblies. Work will be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas, and is expected to be completed by June 30, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 11, 2003. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH01-03-C-0203). Hensel Phelps Construction, Austin, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a delivery order amount of $45,295,745 as part of a $74,936,299 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of barracks buildings. Work will be performed at Biggs Airfield, Fort Bliss, Texas, and is expected to be completed by May 3, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were four bids solicited on March 3, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer District, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-06-D-0039). Raytheon/Lockheed Martin JAVELIN (Joint Venture), Tucson, Ariz., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $38,896,347 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for the missile rounds and remanufactured rounds for the JAVELIN weapon system. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (60 percent), and Orlando, Fla. (40 percent), and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on May 22, 2003. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0136). Neumann Brothers Inc.*, Des Moines, Iowa, was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $33,118,577 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of an Armed Forces Readiness Center. Work will be performed at Camp Dodge, Johnston, Iowa, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 1, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on May 2, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army National Guard Bureau, Johnston, Iowa, is the contracting activity (W912LP-06-C-0001). Stewart & Stevenson Tactical Vehicle Systems L.P., Sealy, Texas, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a $22,403,004 modification to a firm-fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contract for the family of medium tactical vehicle trucks and trailers. Work will be performed in Sealy, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Nov. 15, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids solicited on Aug. 15, 2002, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-03-C-S023). GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a delivery order amount of $22,100,000 as part of a $4,855,874,025 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for 1" slat armor and headlight extension kits for the Stryker vehicle. Work will be performed in Lima, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by June 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 29, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-M051). O'Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Co., Fairfield, Ohio, was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, a $21,323,630 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for up-armored high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles and traversing gear units. Work will be performed in Fairfield, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 10, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-C-S019). O'Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Co., Fairfield, Ohio, was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, an $18,401,181 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for an Increase of Funding on Frag Kit #5 Field Kits from 50 percent to 75 percent of the ceiling price. Work will be performed in Fairfield, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 10, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-C-S019). Tyler Construction Co. Inc.*, Columbia, S.C., was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a $14,115,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of the Army Reserve Regional Readiness Sustainment Command Headquarters. Work will be performed at Fort Jackson, S.C., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 3, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on June 8, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0044). Port Graham Development Corp. with Teng Associates (Joint Venture), Chicago, Ill., was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, a $12,795,010 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of a facility for the National Security Agency. Work will be performed at Fort Gordon, Ga., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 15, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 27, 2006. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912HN-06-C-0063). TCI Architects/Engineers/Contractor Inc., La Crosse, Wis., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, an $11,705,489 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of the Army Reserve Regional Readiness Sustainment Command Headquarters. Work will be performed at Fort McCoy, Wis., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 42 bids solicited on July 6, 2006, and seven bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0047). General Electric Aircraft Engine, Cincinnati, Ohio, was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, a $10,857,529 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for the overhaul and repair effort for the entire T700 family of engines. Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 29, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 25, 2005. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-06-C-0038). New Mexico State University, Physical Science Laboratory*, Las Cruces, N.M., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $9,999,980 firm-fixed-price contract for field service representative support for the Army Research Laboratory, Survivability Lethality Analysis Directorate. Work will be performed in Las Cruces, N.M., and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 28, 2006. The U.S. Army Contracting Agency, White Sands Missile Range, N.M., is the contracting activity (W9124Q-06-C-0156). BAE Systems, York, Pa., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $9,753,472 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for spare diesel engines for the M88A2 HERCULES vehicle system. Work will be performed in York, Pa., and is expected to be completed by June 30, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 17, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-N030). Whitesell-Green Inc., Pensacola, Fla., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $9,429,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a C41 Headquarters Building. Work will be performed at Fort Rucker, Ala., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 1, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 150 bids solicited on July 12, 2006, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-06-C-0054). Spindler Construction Corp.*, Logan, Utah, was awarded on Aug. 30, 2006, a $9,066,438 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of a consolidated missile storage facility. Work will be performed at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, and is expected to be completed by March 16, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 13 bids solicited on June 6, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento, Calif., is the contracting activity (W91238-06-C-0025). Dean Kurtz Construction*, Rapid City, S.D., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $7,350,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a maintenance group headquarters facility. Work will be performed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 47 bids solicited on July 25, 2006, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha, Neb., is the contracting activity (W9128F-06-C-0039). Aeroplate Corp.*, Tollhouse, Calif., was awarded on July 11, 2006, a $7,127,020 firm-fixed-price contract for Repair of Maintenance Hanger and Shops. Work will be performed at Fresno Air National Guard Station, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 12 bids solicited on April 26, 2005, and five bids were received. The National Guard Bureau, San Luis Obispo, Calif., is the contracting activity (W912LA-06-C-5007). Yost, Mooney & Pugh Contractors Inc.*, Spoke, Wash., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $7,095,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of a Resistance Training Facility. Work will be performed at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., and is expected to be completed by March 2, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on June 26, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle, Wash., is the contracting activity (W912DW-06-C-0020). RKJ Construction Inc.*, Lampasas, Texas, was awarded on Sept. 1, 2006, a $6,556,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of two large battalion headquarters. Work will be performed at Fort Hood, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Nov. 1, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 150 bids solicited on June 15, 2006, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth, Texas, is the contracting activity (W9126G-06-C-0038). CWR Construction Inc.*, Little Rock, Ark., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $5,886,665 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of an airman dining facility. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Ark., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 10, 2006, and six bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock, Ark., is the contracting activity (W9127S-06-C-6007). Port Graham Development Corp. with Teng Associates (Joint Venture), Chicago, Ill., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $5,700,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design, site preparation, and construction of a battle equipment testing facility relocation. Work will be performed at Fort Gordon, Ga., and is expected to be completed by June 14, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 27, 2006. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912HN-06-C-0064). Rex Systems Inc.*, Chippewa Falls, Wis., was awarded on Aug. 31, 2006, a $5,414,111 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for enhanced wireless digital communications for the Army's first responder. Work will be performed in Chippewa Falls, Wis., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 29, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 25, 2006. The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-05-C-P225). AIR FORCE Lockheed Martin Space Systems Corp., Sunnyvale, Calif., is being awarded a $58,306,045 cost-plus-award fee contract modification. This is a contract modification to the existing space base infrared system (SBIRS) high component engineering, manufacturing, and development contract. This contract action will exercise an option that provides for fiscal year 2007, continued sustainment of the contractor logistics support and SBIRS legacy sustainment effort. Lockheed Martin Space Systems will provide personnel and infrastructure including supplies and services, to specifically perform space and ground software maintenance, depot maintenance, training, communications maintenance, increment "2" Tactical Intelligence off-line processing and integrated training site operations. At this time, no funds have been obligated. This work will be complete September 2007. Headquarters Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity. (F04701-95-C-0017/P00391) Defense Research Associates Inc., Dayton, Ohio, was awarded on 5 September 2006, a $47,726,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, with cost-plus-fixed fee type task orders contract. This action will support and conduct electro-optical threat warning research at the Air Force Research Laboratory in the area of laser sensor technology, missile warning, and space protection sensors. This may include electro-optical situational awareness and intelligence collection. In addition, support and operation of the hanger 4B laboratory facilities is required, which is incidental to the research efforts of this program. This contract support includes the operation and maintenance of the laboratory facilities, associated equipment, and any performance upgrades as needed to conduct specific test or research. At this time, no funds have been obligated. Solicitations began February 2006 and negotiations were complete August 2006. This work will be complete September 2016. Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity. (FA8650-06-D-1080) Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., is being awarded a $15,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, firm-fixed-price contract. This action provides for the Air Force Medical Laboratory Accreditation Program and Proficiency Testing Program support. The services include accreditation of all Air Force medical laboratories and continuous participation in a proficiency-testing program approved by the centers for Medicare and Medicaid services. At this time, $860,000 has been obligated. Solicitations began May 2006 and negotiations were complete August 2006. This work will be complete August 2016. Air Force District of Washington, Bolling Air Force Base, DC, is the contracting activity. (FA7014-06-D-0014) Tracer ES & T Inc., San Marcos, Calif., is being awarded a $5,800,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, firm-fixed-price contract. This action provides for technical and administrative requirements necessary to provide technical support in tracer, atmospheric, meteorological and air quality support. Contractor is to provide for the calibration, maintenance, preparation, planning, operation, shipping, training, data collection, storage and repair of perfluorocarbon and/or tracer analyzers. Items and quantity will be identified in each task order.. At this time, no funds have been obligated. Solicitations began May 2006 and negotiations were complete August 2006. This work will be complete August 2016. 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA2521-06-D-0006) NAVY ITT Industries, Gilfillan Division, Van Nuys, Calif., is being awarded a $9,441,818 firm-fixed-price/cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-05-C-4304) for upgrade and refurbishment of two AN/SPS-48E radar systems engineering and maintenance support services, field change kits, as well as technical manual updates, provisioning technical documentation, and other data. Work will be performed in Van Nuys, Calif., and is expected to be completed by November 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-05-C-4304). * Small Business
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Shane P. Harris, 23, of Las Vegas, N.M., died Sep. 3 while
conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was
assigned to 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I
Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Eric P. Valdepenas, 21, of Seekonk, Mass., died Sept. 4
while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was
assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment,
4th Marine Division, Ayer, Mass.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Shannon L. Squires, 25, of Virginia Beach, Va., died in Brooke
Army Medial Center, San Antonio, Texas on Aug. 28, of injuries sustained
along Main Supply Route Tampa, Iraq on Apr. 21, when an improvised
explosive device detonated near his convoy vehicle during combat
operations. Squires was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 321 Field Artillery
Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade, XVIIIth Airborne Corps
Artillery, Fort Bragg, N.C.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Eugene H.E. Alex, 32, of Bay City, Mich., died on Sept. 2
in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries
suffered on Aug 30 in Baghdad, Iraq, when he encountered enemy forces
using small arms fire. Alex was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry
Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Cliff K. Golla, 21, of Charlotte, N.C., died Sept. 1 from
wounds received while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province,
Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine
Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Lance Cpl. Philip A. Johnson, 19, of Hartford, Conn., died Sept. 3
while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was
assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II
Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Army Sgt. J.R. Schultz spent much of his
down time in Iraq writing songs with his buddies. The endeavor paid big
dividends when he entered the Dallas Songwriters Association's "Songs
From the Soul of Service" amateur songwriting contest.
Schultz, an Arkansas National Guardsman, submitted several original
songs. "You Know Me" won him first place in the country music category, as
well as the top prize, which includes a professionally produced version
of the song.
"I submitted several songs, all of which were inspired by my service in
Iraq," Schultz said in a biography submitted with his entries. "'You
Know Me' is meant to remind people that our soldiers are not just
soldiers, but they are also fathers, sons, and the kid next door."
Schultz earned another first place in the novelty category with "We
Hate Terrorists." Another of his tunes, "All You Gotta Do," a song
inspired by a roadside bomb that took the life of a soldier in his battalion,
won him second place in the pop music category.
"Songwriting definitely filled an empty space while I was away from
friends and family," he said. "It not only gave me something to do, but
also served as an outlet for the many emotions a soldier feels while so
far away from home."
Roughly 150 aspiring songwriters submitted more than 400 songs during
the first contest, William Brown, the Dallas Songwriters Association's
development director, said. Three winners were chosen from each category
-- country, hip-hop, instrumental, world, inspirational, pop and
novelty -- with the first place song from each competing for the top prize.
Another category was established for songwriters currently serving in
Iraq or Afghanistan or who had done so in the past year, Brown said.
Marine Maj. Mike Corrado took first in the pop category and second
overall with "On My Watch Tonight." Air Force Airman 1st Class C. Virgil
Werley's entry "Long Gone" won the instrumental category and was voted
third place over all.
The event culminated June 16 in a concert featuring the winning songs
and songwriters. Army Staff Sgt. Matthew Gerson and Air Force Master
Sgt. David Arsement opened the show in Killeen, Texas, near Fort Hood,
with a number of their songs. The two servicemembers had a third place in
the inspirational and country categories respectively. Arsement also
picked up a second place in the Iraq/Afghanistan category.
The contest was presented in conjunction with the Defense Department's
America Supports You program, which highlights corporate and grassroots
support for U.S. servicemembers and their families. The contest's
organizers hoped to express their support for the military in a
non-political way, according to the contest brochure.
"My hope is that we will create a serious opportunity for one or more
of the songwriters from the contest," Brown said. "Some of the songs are
so good that once we get them some national exposure, something good is
bound to happen."
Winners of each category will be included on a compilation CD provided
to radio and music industry professionals, as well as participants,
Brown said.
Brown said another Songs From the Soul of Service contest is possible,
but it won't be next year. "We want to run the contest again, but we'll
likely skip a year," he said. "I want to spend some time and effort
promoting the songs and songwriters from this first contest before moving
on to another one."
The same global positioning technology that
helps fighter and bomber pilots deliver smart bombs with pinpoint
accuracy now allows bundles dropped from cargo planes to steer themselves to
drop zones.
A C-130 Hercules from the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron here
dropped supplies to a U.S. Army unit in Afghanistan Aug. 31, using the
military's newest airdrop system for the first time in a combat zone.
An Air National Guard crew, deployed from Alaska's 144th Airlift
Squadron, dropped bundles using the Joint Precision Airdrop System, or JPADS,
which the Army and Air Force have been developing together since 1993.
"This was the first Air Force employment of the Joint Precision Airdrop
System in an operational or combat airlift mission," said Maj. Neil
Richardson, chief of the combat programs and policy branch at Air Mobility
Command. He deployed here as part of the JPADS Mobile Training Team to
oversee the first combat use of the system and to train C-130 crews how
to use it.
"The system did exactly what it was designed for and delivered
ammunition and water to ground troops here in Afghanistan," he said.
The JPADS is a family of systems designed to bring the same accuracy to
the airlift community that strike pilots have enjoyed since the
development of GPS-guided bombs, called joint direct attack munitions, or
JDAMS. "It's the JDAMS of logistics," Richardson said.
The goal, when the system is fully developed, is to field four sizes of
JPADS: extra light, light, medium and heavy. Though still in the
concept-development phase, the heavy JPADS may be able to airdrop up to
60,000 pounds of cargo, more than enough to deliver the Army's eight-wheel
Stryker combat vehicle.
"Soldiers in forward fighting positions will have a viable means of
airdrop resupply, which is more accurate and increases survivability of
critical supplies, like ammunition, fuel, food and water," said Chief
Warrant Officer Cortez Frazier, aerial delivery chief for Combined Joint
Task Force 76's Joint Logistics Command. "JPADS will ensure the
warfighter can continue to combat and win against terrorism."
The JPADS loads have GPS receivers that are updated while traveling in
the airplane through a repeater in the cargo bay that re-broadcasts the
aircraft's GPS coordinates to electronics fastened to the cargo.
When dropped, the GPS receivers guide steering mechanisms that
literally fly the cargo under a rectangular "parafoil," to the desired point of
impact.
"They are autonomously steered by GPS and electro-mechanical steering
actuators," said Maj. Dan DeVoe, a command tactician at the Air Mobility
Warfare Center, at McGuire Air Force Base, N.J., and also on the mobile
training team. The actuators pull risers on a parachute -- turning it
one direction or another -- to position the load over the desired point
of impact.
Once the load is positioned over the drop zone, a second parachute
deploys, and the cargo descends almost straight down to troops on the
ground.
In Afghanistan, C-130 crews drop the light version of JPADS, dubbed the
"screamer" because it falls at 100 mph. It can deliver container
delivery system bundles containing food, water, ammunition and other supplies
weighing 500 to 2,000 pounds to troops on the ground.
"We're resupplying small units, so we don't need a big volume of
parachutes and equipment," said Army Lt. Col. Robert Gagnon, the deputy
commander of the 10th Sustainment Brigade, whose job is resupplying aoldiers
in Afghanistan. "It allows us to get into a small area from a stand-off
distance, where the aircraft is out of harm's way."
Prior to dropping the screamer, a C-130 loadmaster will pitch a small
transmitter called a "dropsonde" from the back of the aircraft. The
dropsonde relays wind speeds and direction back to the navigator's laptop
computer.
"It's a very accurate, very real-time wind picture of what's going on
out there," Richardson said. "A lot of your error comes from wind, and
we've taken a lot of the error out."
Under traditional airdrop procedures, C-130 navigators guided pilots to
a single point in space to take advantage of forecasted winds to blow
unguided loads under a parachute to a drop zone on the ground.
Forecasted winds may or may not have been the same by the time aircrafts
actually arrived at drop zones.
With JPADS, navigators gather up-to-the-minute information about wind
direction and speed, then, because the loads can steer themselves, can
fly to an area over the drop zone to release the loads as opposed to a
single point.
"As long as you are in that 'launch acceptability' region, you can call
'green light' and your loads are going to go to their intended
targets," Richardson said.
In addition to accuracy, JPADS allows different bundles to steer
themselves to more than one drop zone.
"You can basically fly to an area, drop the bundles, and they will
steer where they need to go," DeVoe said. "With one green-light call,
bundles can go to multiple locations."
The increased accuracy and ability to drop to more than one location at
the same time means that soldiers on the ground recover the cargo
quickly and know exactly where it will land.
"(JPADS) ensures the supplies are received in a timely manner," Gagnon
said. "The soldiers get what they need, when they need it and how they
need it. The drop zone is set up for a shorter period of time, the
loads come in, the aircraft is gone and the Soldiers are gone before the
enemy knows what's taken place."
The new system also allows aircrews to drop from higher altitudes,
moving C-130s farther from the threat of enemy ground fire and still
deliver cargo accurately by air drop. The higher an aircraft drops, the less
accurate the loads become -- until now.
"JPADS takes the aircrew and the aircraft out of harm's way by being
higher and further away from the drop zones and therefore, further away
from the threats," Richardson said.
"On the ground side, the precision of the airdrop systems themselves
allows the guys to pick up all the stuff right around the desired point
of impact, as opposed to being dispersed or scattered across the entire
drop zone," he said. "They're not risking their lives gathering the
loads."
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Harris Technical Services Corp., Colorado Springs, Co., is being
awarded a $54,997,058 cost plus award fee contract. This action provides for
operations and maintenance services to be provided to Air Force Space
Command's 50th Space wing including: configuration management,
electrical power systems management, communications systems engineering, small
computer hardware maintenance and database applications support, 2 hour
maintenance management, industrial safety, communications security,
information management, local area network management, communications
network control center operations, telephone operations, and visual
information management, communications circuit management, satellite control
center support, computer operations support, communications-computer
system maintenance and operation for the defense satellite communications
system, secure communication system, MILSTAR, and other operations in
support of the Air Force Satellite Control Network. To date
$44,819,845 has been obligated. The work will be complete September
2007. Headquarters 50th Space Wing, Schriever Air Force Base, Co., is the
contracting activity (FA2550-02-C-0007/P00066).
Raytheon Co., El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a $54,400,667 cost
plus award fee. The objective of the work is to investigate and
demonstrate, via hardware test and evaluation, the viability of a full-earth
sharing senor assembly to meet threshold missile warning, missile
defense objectives of the Defense Satellite Program/Space Based Infrared
Surveillance High Systems and to provide performance data that can be used
by the Government to assess the risk of this approach for a future
Alternative Infrared Satellite System, Engineering and Manufacturing Design
program. Raytheon shall build, integrate, and test enough of the
hardware and software elements of the functional/signal path to demonstrate
basic integrated senor assembly capability against requirements goals
derived from the Defense Satellite Program/Space Based Infrared
Surveillance and High Missile Warning/Missile Defense requirements. The work
will be complete in twenty four months plus three months for
receipt of final report. To date $4,455,478 has been obligated.
Headquarters Air Force Research Laboratory, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M. is
the contracting activity (FA9435-060C-0377).
DTS Aviation Services, Inc., Fort Worth, Tex., is being awarded a
$37,283,349 fixed price incentive (firm target) with award fee contract
modification. This action exercise an option year for maintenance of T-37,
T-38C, T-6, and T1A aircraft at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi.
To date no funds have been obligated. The work will be complete
September 2007. Headquarters 14th Flying Training Wing, Columbus Air Force
Base, Miss., is the contracting activity (FA3002-05-C-0016/P00021).
Tybrin Corp., Fort Walton Beach, Fla., is being awarded a $36,169,179
cost plus award fee; cost reimbursement no fee contract modification.
The Air Force is exercising option year four for software engineering
support of guided weapons systems evaluations, simulations, and other
services supporting research and development for the principals and
customers of the Air Armament Center. To date no funds have been obligated.
The work will be complete September 2007. Headquarters Air Armament
Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity
(F08635-02-C-0034/P00026).
ITT Industries, Systems Division., Colorado Springs, Co., is being
awarded a $13,263,349 firm fixed price award fee with cost reimbursable
line items cost contract modification. This action will provide mission
support, program management, operations and maintenance, and
measurement, analysis and improvement required to successfully achieve the system
operational availability coverage and data integrity required by the
users of the hemisphere radar system. The mission of hemisphere radar
system is to provide air surveillance in support of United States and
allied nations counter drug efforts throughout the United States southern
command area of responsibility and to support air sovereignty, search
and rescue, regional cooperation missions and training. The work will be
completed September 2007. To date $13,263,349 has been obligated.
Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley Air Force Base, Va. is the
contracting activity (FA44650-03-C-0009/P00050).
Sytex, Doylestown, Pa., is being awarded a $10,333,582 firm fixed
price delivery order off a BPA contract. This action provides for counter
intelligence/force protection. To date $10,333,582 has been obligated.
The work will be complete September 2007. Headquarters 6th Air Mobility
Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity
(FO8602-02-A-0021(BPA)/FA4811-06-F-A388 (DO)).
Honeywell International Inc., Teterboro, N.J., is being awarded a
$7,669,671 cost plus fixed fee contract. This order is an engineering
services effort in support of the F-15 avionics intermediate shop antenna
test station and Enhancement Aircraft Radar Test Station. Honeywell is
required to develop form fit function replacements for items that had
previously been identified as obsolete and unsupportable in the tester.
Requirement is also included that will automate a test procedure for the
enhancement aircraft radar station which will significantly improve the
performance of the tester at both depot and field locations and a
requirement to correct a previously identified software deficiency in the
tester. To date $7,669,671 has been obligated. The work will be complete
eighteen months after award. Headquarters 542nd Combat Sustainment
Wing, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity
(FA8517-05-G-0001-0009).
Diversitech, Inc. and Call Henry, Inc., Joint Venture, Sunnyvale,
Calif., is being awarded a $6,778,023 cost plus award fee contract
modification. This action provides for Civil Engineering and Base Maintenance
Services. Civil engineering support services, base operation and
maintenance, repair, construction, equipment installation, support of real
property and real property installed equipment. This work will be complete
September 2007. To date, no funds have been obligated. Headquarters
50th Space Wing, Peterson Air Force Base, Co., is the contracting activity
(FA2550-02-C-0005/P00071).
NAVY
FN Herstal, S.A., Herstal, Belgium, is being awarded a $22,000,000
firm-fixed-priced contract for the procurement of 519 GAU-21 weapons
systems, to include related supplies and services, operator and armorer tool
kits, replacement part kits, technical manuals for the operation,
maintenance and repair of the weapon systems, and training. Work will be
performed in Herstal, Belgium (90 percent); Johnston, Pa. (4 percent);
Somerset, Pa. (3 percent); and Blairsville, Pa. (3 percent) and is
expected to be completed in October 2007. Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively
procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the
contracting activity (N00019-06-C-0092).
ALION Science and Technology Corp., Chicago, Ill., is being awarded a
$7,923,637 cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order against a previously
awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N61339-03-D-0300)
to provide modeling and simulation services in support of the Army
Modeling and Simulation Office. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va. (85
percent) and Alexandria, Va. (15 percent), and is expected to be
completed in May 2009. Contract funds in will not expire at the end of the
fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division,
Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Sysco of Hampton Roads, Suffolk, Va., is being awarded a maximum
$15,875,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment for full line food
distribution for DoD and non-DoD customers in the mid-Atlantic South
Zone. Using services are Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Proposals were
Web-solicited and two responded. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is
September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-06-D-3146).
Military officials in Southwest Asia are
expressing regret and offering condolences in the wake of a "friendly
fire" incident in Afghanistan yesterday that claimed one coalition
soldier's life and wounded several others.
A statement issued by the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command
Air Forces said a U.S. A-10 Thunderbolt II responded to a call for
close-air support from officials of NATO's International Security
Assistance Force at about 5:30 a.m. yesterday. Coalition troops were engaged in
close combat against Taliban insurgents, west of the city of Kandahar
in the Panjwayi district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province. ISAF forces
engaged in the battle received close-air support from the A-10s during
the extended battle, officials said.
"Regrettably," the Central Command Air Forces statement said, "one of
the several A-10s supporting the mission engaged friendly forces during
a strafing run. One soldier was killed and a number of others were
wounded." ISAF medical assets responded immediately and evacuated the
casualties to ISAF military medical facilities for treatment, officials
said.
"I extend our deepest sympathies to all the soldiers and airmen and
their loved ones affected by this combat accident," said Air Force Lt.
Gen. Gary North, Central Command Air Forces commander, quoted in the
command statement. "The death or injury of each and every coalition member
is a tragedy that saddens us, our families and the military and civilian
members of the coalition."
The statement also included an expression of sympathy from the
commander of NATO's force in Afghanistan, along with his determination to
continue the mission.
"I wish to send my deepest sympathies to all of the soldiers and their
loved ones who've been affected by this very sad incident," British
Army Lt. Gen. David J. Richards, commander of ISAF, said in the Central
Command Air Forces statement. "It is particularly distressing to us all
when, despite the care and precautions that are always applied, a
tragedy like this happens."
Richards emphasized the importance of the mission and the operation in
which the incident occurred. "Helping the people of Afghanistan and at
the same time preventing this country once more from becoming a safe
haven for terrorism is in all our interests," he said. "The particular
battle ISAF is spearheading in Kandahar at the moment is both tough and
vital, and being conducted with bravery and skill -- I am humbled to
lead such people."
The NATO leader stressed the importance of air power. "At this time we
must also remember that, in the heat of the battle, the factor that
makes the difference for ISAF is airpower," he said. "Time and time again,
through hundreds and hundreds of missions, it is the skill of our
aircrew that has saved our troops on the ground and paved the way to
success."
He vowed that NATO forces would continue in their mission, "deeply
saddened by this loss but totally unaffected in their determination to
build on the existing progress of Operation Medusa and finish the job. Our
comrades would expect no less."
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Nicholas A. Madaras, 19, of Wilton, Conn., died on Sept. 3, in
Baqubah, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device
detonated near his dismounted patrol during combat operations. Madaras
was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Michael L. Deason, 28, of Farmington, Mo., died on Aug 31,
in Ad War, Iraq, ofinjuries suffered when an improvised explosive
device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Deason was
assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade,
101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.
Two Marines and a sailor assigned to Regimental Combat Team 5 died
yesterday due to enemy action while operating in Iraq's Anbar province, and the Defense Department has identified two soldiers who previously died in Iraq.
Military officials in Iraq provided no further details on the deaths of
the Marines and the sailor. Their names are being withheld pending
notification of next of kin.
Pentagon officials today identified two soldiers who died in Iraq in
recent days:
-- Army Pfc. Nicholas A. Madaras, 19, of Wilton, Conn., died Sept. 3 of
injuries suffered when a roadside bomb detonated near his dismounted
patrol in Baqubah. Madaras was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor
Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson,
Colo.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Michael L. Deason, 28, of Farmington, Mo., died Aug.
31 of injuries suffered when a roadside bomb detonated near his vehicle
in Ad War. Deason was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 320th Field
Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Ryan E. Miller, 21, of Gahanna, Ohio, died Sept. 3 while
conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd
Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine
Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Enemy roadside bombs claimed the lives of three U.S. soldiers in Iraq over the past two days, another soldier died today of non-combat causes, and two Marines were killed yesterday
during fighting in Anbar province, U.S. officials reported.
An improvised explosive device killed a soldier with the 1/34th Brigade
Combat Team today during a convoy escort mission north of Baghdad,
officials said. An IED explosion yesterday near Baqubah, Iraq, killed a
U.S. soldier who was assigned to the 4th Infantry Division's 3rd Heavy
Brigade Combat Team. Another soldier, assigned to the 2nd Infantry
Division's 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, died yesterday from injuries
suffered when his vehicle was struck by an IED near Mosul, Iraq.
Two U.S. Marines assigned to Regimental Combat Team 5 died yesterday
due to enemy action during anti-insurgent operations in Iraq's Anbar
province, and a U.S. soldier with the 15th Sustainment Brigade died today
of non-combat injuries.
The names of the deceased servicemembers are being withheld pending
notification of next of kin.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a aoldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Matthew J. Vosbein, 30, of Metairie, La., died on Aug. 29, in
Sadr Al Yusifiyah, Iraq, of injuries sustained when an improvised
explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol during combat operations.
Vosbein was assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry
Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault),
Fort Campbell, Ky.
President Bush today released his updated National Strategy for Combating Terrorism, which outlines the U.S. government's strategy to protect and defend American interests at home and
abroad from terrorism.
"The best way to protect America is to stay on the offense," Bush told
an audience today at the Military Officers Association of America here.
"Since 9/11 our coalition has captured or killed al Qaeda managers and
operatives and scores of other terrorists across the world. The enemy
is living under constant pressure, and we intend to keep it that way."
The strategy update emphasizes that the U.S. not only must fight
terrorists on the battlefield, but also must promote freedom and human
dignity to counter terrorists' vision of oppression and totalitarian rule.
To win the war on terror, the United States will continue to lead a
vast international effort to defeat violent extremists who threaten the
U.S. and its allies, as well as create a global environment inhospitable
to violent extremists and their supporters, the update states.
"When terrorists spend their days working to avoid death or capture,
it's harder for them to plan and execute new attacks," Bush said. "By
taking the battle to terrorists and their supporters on our own soil and
across the world we've stopped another of al Qaeda plots."
The updated strategy stresses the importance democracy will play in
defeating terrorism in the long term. Effective democracies honor and
uphold basic human rights, including freedom of religion, conscience,
speech, assembly, association and press, the document states.
Democracy also gives people an ownership stake in society, offers the
rule of law, the peaceful resolution of disputes, a marketplace of ideas
to expose and discredit falsehoods, and offers a respect for human
dignity and rejects the targeting of innocents, the strategy notes.
To create the space and time for the long-term solution to terrorism to
take root, the update outlines four priorities over the short term:
-- Prevent attacks by terrorist networks by working with partners
across the globe;
-- Deny weapons of mass destruction to rogue states and terrorist
allies who seek to use them;
-- Deny terrorists the support and sanctuary of rogue states; and
-- Deny terrorists control of any area they would use as a base and
launching pad for terror.
The strategy update notes that the United States is transforming its
domestic and international institutions and partnerships to carry forward
the fight against terror. The U.S. also is collaborating with its
partners to update and tailor international obligations and standards of
accountability to meet the evolving threat of terrorism.
"(The United States is) building the capacity of foreign partners in
all areas of counterterrorism activities," the update states. "Through
the provision of training, equipment, and other assistance, the United
States will enhance the ability of partners across the globe to attack
and defeat terrorists."
Other long-term solutions laid out in the update include better
interagency collaboration and fostering intellectual and human capital by
creating an expert community of counterterrorism professionals.
The Bush administration already has done a great deal to meet this end,
including the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security, the
position of director of national intelligence, and the National
Counterterrorism Center, the update states.
The strategic update also points out the U.S. military is expanding its
special operations forces, increasing the capabilities of the regular
military force to conduct irregular warfare, and initiating the largest
rearrangement of its force posture since World War II.
"In the 20th century, free nations confronted and defeated Nazi
Germany. During the Cold War we confronted Soviet communism. And today Europe
is whole, free and at peace," Bush said. "And now freedom is once again
contending with the forces of darkness and tyranny."
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Karta Technologies Corp., San Antonio, Tex., was awarded on Aug. 24,
2006, a $75,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract.
This action provides for information modernization technology (ITM)
services for the Air Force Surgeon General's Information Technology (IT)
Branch (AF/SGR). At this time $2,500,000 has been obligated. This work will
be complete August 2011. Headquarters Air Force District Washington,
Bolling Air Force Base, D.C., is the contracting activity
(FA7014-06-D-0017).
Space Data Corp., Chandler, Ariz., is being awarded a $49,000,000 firm
fixed price contract. This contract action will provide near space
communication relays for voice and data and performance for command and
control for primary and secondary payloads, primary payload version 1 and
version 2; including launch system design, launch system components,
and launch system supportability. At this time $1,473,798 has been
obligated. This work will be complete August 2011. Headquarters Space and
Missile Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting
activity (FA8818-06-D-0034 and Order Number 0001).
SemiSouth Laboratories, Inc., Starkville, Miss., is being awarded a
$22,500,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity with cost plus
fixed-fee (completion) type task orders contract. The objective of this Small
Business Technology Transfer (STTR Phase III) is to extend the design,
fabrication, and reliability testing, of advanced silicon carbide power
devices toward military qualification and reproducible
manufacturability for product development and commercial sale. At this time $3,950,000
has been obligated. This work will be complete August 2011.
Headquarters Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio,
is the contracting activity (FA8650-06-D-2608/Task Order 0001).
Northrop Grumman Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., was awarded on Aug 24,
2006, a $7,006,572 firm fixed price contract modification. This action
provides for the Electronic Systems Test Set (ESTS) Program extended
contractor transition support. This modification covers the ESTS
controller upgrade Phase 2 follow-on (ECP#2) effort, performed by the Northrop
Grumman Corp. This modification effort will address the obsolescence
issue with the controller and will increase the effectiveness and
efficiency of the ESTS stations for diagnostic screenings of the F-15 aircraft.
At this time $3,789,000 has been obligated. This work will be complete
August 2006. Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright Patterson
Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(F41608-93-C-0064/P00217).
Woodward FST, Zeeland, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a
$6,667,708 firm fixed price contract. This action provides for spray rings,
spares in support of the F100-PW engine (F15/F16). At this time $6,667,708
has been obligated. Solicitations began May 2006 and negotiations were
complete July 2006. This work will be complete at a rate of 10 per
month, 12 months after first article approval and continuing at that rate
until completion. Headquarters Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center,
Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is the contracting activity
(FA8104-06-C-0212).
J.K. Hill and Associates, Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded a
$6,181,018 fixed-price award fee, firm fixed price requirements, and
cost contract modification. This action provides for base supply services
to include supply, fuels and logistics material control activity
services for the Air Force Flight Test Center, at Edwards Air Force Base,
California. At this time no funds have been obligated. This work will be
complete September 2007. Headquarters 95th Air Base Wing, Edwards Air
Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity (FO4700-02-C-003/P00037).
NAVY
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration, Owego, N.Y., is being awarded a
$27,074,891 ceiling-priced modification to a previously awarded
cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00019-05-C-0030) for integration equipment for
the VH-71 System Integration Laboratory. Work will be performed in Owego,
N.Y., and is expected to be completed in August 2008. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air
Systems Command is the contracting activity.
Raydon Corp., Daytona Beach, Fla., is being awarded a $26,654,353 cost
plus-fixed fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity completion
service contract for the development, modification, manufacturing,
installation and site support, testing, training services, contractor
maintenance and program management support for ground system trainers. This
requirement will support ground system trainers such as: table-top
trainers, institutional maneuver training systems (i.e., Simulation Network,
air and ground convoy operational training systems and appended training
systems (i.e., Light Armored Vehicle Full-Crew Interactive Skills
Trainer, etc.), which network and share common operating environments and
requirements. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would
bring the cumulative value of this contract to $44,850,964. Work will be
performed in Daytona Beach, Fla., and is expected to be completed by
August 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This contract was competively procured with 15
proposals solicited and one offer received via the Commerce Business
Daily. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, Indian Head,
Md., is the contracting activity (N00174-06-D-0033).
York International Corp., York, Pa., is being awarded an $18,925,753
cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for
engineering and technical services in support of various centrifugal
air conditioning and refrigeration systems onboard various Navy ships
throughout the country. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va. (60
percent); San Diego, Calif. (30 percent); and Groton, Conn. (10 percent), and
is expected to be completed by August 2010. Contract funds in the
amount of $160,000, will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The
contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare
Center, Carderock Division, Ship System Engineering Station, Philadelphia,
Pa., is the contracting activity (N65540-06-D-0021).
CH2M Hill Constructors, Inc., Atlanta, Ga., is being awarded $7,499,456
for modification 02 to Task Order 0050 under a previously awarded
cost-plus-award-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity remedial action
contract (N62467-01-D-0331) for heating, ventilation and air
conditioning (HVAC) remediation and repair for the Nursing Towers in Building 1
at Naval Medical Center, San Diego. Award of this modification brings
the total task order amount to $7,583,422. Work will be performed in San
Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by September 2007.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The
basic contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation
website with three proposals received and award made on Aug. 15, 2002.
The total contract amount is not to exceed $110,000,000, which includes
the base period and four option years. The Naval Facilities Engineering
Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting
activity.
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $7,215,717 modification
to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-04-C-0569) to
upgrade Block IV Tomahawk Missile guidance test sets for the Navy (2)
and the United Kingdom (2) Royal Navy, to include the redesigned
guidance electronics unit and anti-jam GPS receiver being incorporated into
the all-up-round under obsolescence management. In addition, this
modification provides for the procurement of two new Block IV Tomahawk Missile
guidance test sets for the Navy. Work will be performed in Tucson,
Ariz., and is expected to be completed in March 2009. This contract
combines purchases for the Navy ($6,345,665; 88 percent) and the United
Kingdom ($870,052; 12 percent). Contract funds in the amount of $2,499,474
will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems
Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.
Rolls Royce, Bristol, England, is being awarded $6,157,143 for priced
order 5369 under an existing basic ordering agreement contract
(N00383-04-G-001M) for the procurement of turbine blades, HP Stage 2 used in
support of the F-402 engine. Work will be performed in Bristol, England,
and work is expected to be completed by August 2009. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not
competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point is the
contracting activity.
Raytheon Technical Services Co., Indianapolis, Ind., is being awarded a
$5,631,766 estimated value delivery order against a previously awarded
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N00019-05-G-0008) to provide, integrate,
and support the flight test demonstration of a tactical imaging sensor
capable of inherent target cueing functionality in a SHAred
Reconnaissance Pod mounted on an F/A-18E/F aircraft. Work will be performed in
Indianapolis, Ind. (70 percent); China Lake, Calif. (20 percent); and
North Logan, Utah (10 percent), and is expected to be completed in August
2008 Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the
contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a
maximum 24,824,563 firm fixed price contract for aircraft parts. Using
services are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This is a sole
source competition with 7 solicited and 1 responded. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance
completion is August 27, 2007. This is a three year contract with one
base year and two 1-year options. Contracting activity is Defense Supply
Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio (SPM7A2-06-D-7002).
Tesoro Refining and Marketing Co., San Antonio, Texas, was awarded on
Aug. 25, 2006, a minimum 6,030,475 fixed price with economic price
adjustment contract for jet fuel for the Army. Other location of performance
is Pohakuloa, Hawaii. There were 10 proposals solicited and 6
responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
Date of performance completion is Dec. 31, 2009. Contracting activity
is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-05-D-1267).
Two American soldiers and one Marine died in Iraq today
in two separate incidents, and another Marine was killed Sept. 1, U.S. officials reported. The two Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers were killed in the eastern part of the city, officials said, when the vehicle they were riding in encountered an improvised explosive device. The Marine, assigned to Regimental Combat Team 7, was killed today in action against the enemy in Anbar province, officials said. Another U.S. Marine assigned to Regimental Combat Team 5 died during anti-terrorist operations in Anbar province on Sept. 1. The names of the deceased servicemembers are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. DoD officials have identified the following previous casualties: -- Army Sgt. Moises Jazmin, 25, of Providence; Army Spc. Qixing Lee, 20, of Minneapolis; Army Spc. Shaun A. Novak, 21, of Two Rivers, Wis.; and Army Spc. Tristan C. Smith, 23, of Bryn Athyn, Pa., died Aug. 27 in Taji, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their M2A3 Bradley fighting vehicle during combat operations. All were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -- Marine Cpl. Christopher T. Warndorf, 21, of Burlington, Ky., died Aug. 29 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. -- Marine Lance Cpl. Colin J. Wolfe, 18, of Manassas, Va., died Aug. 30 while conducting combat operations in Anbar province. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. -- Army Sgt. Joshua R. Hanson, 27, of West St. Paul, Minn., died Aug. 30 in Khaldea, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Hanson was assigned to the National Guard 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry, Detroit Lakes, Minn.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Joshua R. Hanson, 27, of West St. Paul, Minn., died on Aug. 30, in Khaldea, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Hanson was assigned to the National Guard 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry, Detroit Lakes, Minn.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Taji, Iraq, on Aug 27, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their M2A3 Bradley Vehicle during combat operations. All soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were: Sgt. Moises Jazmin, 25, of Providence, R.I. Spc. Qixing Lee, 20, of Minneapolis, Minn. Spc. Shaun A. Novak, 21, of Two Rivers, Wis. Spc. Tristan C. Smith, 23, of Bryn Athyn, Pa.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Colin J. Wolfe, 18, of Manassas, Va., died Aug. 30 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Cpl. Christopher T. Warndorf, 21, of Burlington, Ky., died Aug. 29 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
A Marine serving with an Army unit in Iraq died yesterday from wounds suffered due to enemy action in Iraq's Anbar province, and Defense Department officials have identified previous casualties. The name of the Marine, who was serving with 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. DoD officials have identified the following previous casualties: -- Army Staff Sgt. Jeffrey J. Hansen, 31, of Cairo, Neb., died Aug. 27 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, of injuries suffered Aug. 21 from a vehicle accident in Balad, Iraq. Hansen was assigned to the Army National Guard 1st Squadron, 167th Cavalry Regiment, Lincoln, Neb. -- Army Spc. Seth A. Hildreth, 26, of Myrtle Beach, S.C., died Aug. 27 in Baghdad of injuries suffered when a roadside bomb detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Hildreth was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -- Marine Lance Cpl. Donald E. Champlin, 28, of Natchitoches, La., died Aug. 28 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center from wounds suffered while conducting combat operations in Anbar province Aug. 27. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C. -- Army Sgt. David J. Almazan, 27, of Van Nuys, Calif., died Aug. 27 in Hit, Iraq, of injuries suffered when a roadside bomb detonated near his Humvee during combat operations. Almazan was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany. -- Army Sgt. Darry Benson, 46, of Winterville, N.C., died Aug. 27 at Camp Virginia, Kuwait, from a non-combat related cause. Benson was assigned the Army National Guard's 730th Quartermaster Battalion, Ahoskie, N.C. -- Army Spc. Joshua D. Jones, 24, of Pomeroy, Ohio, died Aug. 27 in Baghdad of injuries suffered when his Humvee came in contact with enemy forces using small-arms fire during combat operations. Jones was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -- Army Spc. Kenneth M. Cross, 21, of Superior, Wis., and Army Pfc. Daniel G. Dolan, 19, of Roy, Utah, died during combat operations Aug. 27 in Baghdad when their M1126 Stryker vehicle came in contact with enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and small-arms fire. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash. -- Army Spc. Matthew E. Schneider, 23, of Gorham, N.H., died Aug. 28 in Ramadi, Iraq, from a non-combat related cause. Schneider was assigned to the 141st Signal Battalion, 1st Armored Division, Wiesbaden, Germany.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Matthew E. Schneider, 23, of Gorham, N.H., died on Aug. 28, in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, from a non-combat related cause.Schneider was assigned to the 141st Signal Battalion, 1st Armored Division, Wiesbaden, Germany. The incident is under investigation
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died during combat operationsAug 27, in Baghdad, Iraq, when their M1126 Stryker Vehicle came in contact with enemy forces using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash. Killed were: Spc. Kenneth M. Cross, 21, of Superior, Wis. Pfc. Daniel G. Dolan, 19, of Roy, Utah.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. David J. Almazan, 27, of Van Nuys, Calif.,died on Aug 27, in Hit, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations. Almazan was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Joshua D. Jones, 24, of Pomeroy, Ohio, died Aug 27, in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when his HMMWV came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire during combat operations.Jones was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Darry Benson, 46, of Winterville, N.C., died on Aug 27, in Camp Virginia, Kuwait, from a non-combat related cause.Benson was assigned the Army National Guard's 730th Quartermaster Battalion, Ahoskie, N.C. The incident is under investigation.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lance Cpl. Donald E. Champlin, 28, of Natchitoches, La., died Aug. 28 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, from wounds received while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq, on Aug. 27.He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Darry Benson, 46, of Winterville, N.C., died on Aug 27, in Camp Virginia, Kuwait, from a non-combat related cause.Benson was assigned the Army National Guard's 730th Quartermaster Battalion, Ahoskie, N.C. The incident is under investigation.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Jeffrey J. Hansen, 31, of Cairo, Neb., died on Aug. 27, in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries suffered on Aug. 21 from a vehicle accident in Balad, Iraq.Hansen was assigned to the Army National Guard 1st Squadron, 167th Cavalry Regiment, Lincoln, Neb.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Edgardo Zayas, 29, of Dorchester, Mass., died on Aug. 26, in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol during combat operations. Zayas was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Cpl. David G. Weimortz, 28, of Irmo, S.C. died Aug. 26 from injuries suffered while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Eight Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers were killed yesterday in Iraq, seven of them after makeshift bombs struck their vehicles in and around Baghdad, military officials reported. Two soldiers died of wounds suffered when a makeshift bomb struck their vehicle in western Baghdad and one soldier died when his vehicle was struck by a makeshift bomb south of Baghdad. In addition, four soldiers died when a makeshift bomb struck their vehicle north of Baghdad. Another soldier was killed by small-arms fire in eastern Baghdad. The soldiers' names are being withheld pending notification of next of
Flag Officer Assignments Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen announced the following flag officer assignments: Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael K. Mahon is being assigned as commander, Standing Naval Maritime Group One. Mahon is currently serving as deputy chief of staff for Operations, Allied Maritime Component Command, Northwood. Rear Adm. (lower half) Richard O'Hanlon is being assigned as director, Deep Blue, Washington, D.C. O'Hanlon is currently serving as commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic, Norfolk, Va.
A small community in Iowa is among 86 cities and towns in 39 states planning Freedom Walks to honor those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, as well as the nation's veterans, past and present. The American Legion chapter in Milo, Iowa, a town of about 1,000, is sponsoring its Freedom Walk Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. The American Legion is a member of the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which spotlights ways the American people and the nation's corporate sector support U.S. servicemembers. Beginning in downtown Milo, the walk will cover four blocks and will end at City Park, where participants will reflect and pray, Ron Hensel, the walk's organizer and a member of Milo's American Legion post, said. "We'll have a minister on hand to give a prayer," he said. "There'll be time for speakers if anyone cares to speak." Hensel said all veterans, children from the area schools, and fire department and local law enforcement officers have been invited to participate in the walk. He said he's hoping for 100 to 200 Milo residents to participate. "(It's) just to let the community know that there's patriotism still alive and well in the Midwest," Hensel said, adding that everyone walking will be handed a small American flag. "I'm a veteran from the Vietnam era, and I feel that it's important for veterans to be recognized and given their just due." Similar Freedom Walks are scheduled around the country to remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11 and to honor America's military veterans. The local events around the country parallel the Washington, D.C., Freedom Walk, scheduled Sept. 10 and sponsored by the Defense Department's America Supports You program. The Pentagon sponsored the first America Supports You Freedom Walk in the Washington, D.C., area last year. The fact that so many cities across the country are holding Freedom Walks makes Hensel proud, he said. "I think that we have a great country, and I think people believe in the country, believe in our freedom," he Said. Information for people interested in organizing Freedom Walk observances in their communities is available at the America Supports You Freedom Walk Web site.
Las Vegas will remember those lost in the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, with a Freedom Walk on Sept. 9. "We hope this will become an annual commemoration of those we lost on 9/11," said Courtney Wroblewski, a special events planner with the city. The 2.2-mile loop will begin and end at the Kellogg Zaher Sports Complex at 7901 Washington Ave. Walkers, including Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman and Councilman Larry Brown, will step out beginning at 7:30 a.m. Las Vegas planners called the walk a time to reflect on the lives lost on Sept. 11, and to "renew our commitment to freedom and the values of the United States." Planners expect about 500 walkers to participate. Refreshments will be provided for the walkers. "We expect this will grow in the future," Wroblewski said. Local communities across the United States have committed to similar Freedom Walks to remember the victims of 9/11 and to honor the nation's veterans, past and present. The local events around the country parallel the Washington, D.C., Freedom Walk scheduled Sept. 10 and sponsored by the Defense Department's "America Supports You" program. America Supports You spotlights ways the American people and the nation's corporate sector support U.S. servicemembers. Information for people interested in organizing Freedom Walk observances in their communities is available at the America Supports You Freedom Walk Web site.
Contracts
AIR FORCE Magnum Medical Joint Venture, Angleton, Tex and Luke and Associates, Merritt Island, Fla., are each being awarded a $1,926,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity; fixed price with economic price adjustment contract. This action provides for the contractors to recruit, qualify and retain health care workers at 63 Air Force medical treatment facilities in 58 geographic locations. The Air Force can issues delivery orders totaling up to the maximum amount indicated above, although the actual requirements may be less than the amount above. To date $500,000 has been obligated to each contractor. The work will be complete November 2010. The Air Force District Washington, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington D.C., is the contracting activity. Public Affairs point of contact is Ms. Linda Card at 202-767-4782 (FA7014-06-D-0015 and FA7014-06-D-0016). Southern Management, Goldsboro, N.C., is being awarded a $30,000,000 indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contract. This action provides for repair airfield/pavement base pavements, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. This project includes, but is not limited to: maintenance repair, or new construction of asphalt pavement, walkways, concrete pavement, curb and guttering repair, clearing grubbing, excavation, fill, aggregate base course, milling of bituminous pavement, inlets, catch basins, drainage pipe, pavement markings, removal of rubber/pavement, inlets, catch basins, drainage pipe, pavement markings, removal of rubber/pavement markings, seeding/sod, trees and shrubs, soil erosion control, railroad work, and airfield/street lighting. This work will be complete August 2007. To date, $8,000 has been obligated. The 4th Fighter Wing, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., is the contracting activity (FA4809-06-D-C004). Information Systems Inc., McLean, Va., is being awarded a $26,255,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity cost plus award fee contract modification. The Technical Services and Space Operations Support contract provides services to operate, maintain, and support the Space Warfare Center (SWC) located at Schriever Air Force Base, CO. The SWC is also the Air Staff executive agent for the Air Force's Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities program. The contract is directed toward examining, assessing, and developing the means to integrate national system and DoD space system support to enhance combat, and research and development capabilities within the Air Force. This includes and/or involves integrating existing and advanced technology weapons, platforms, and special test facilities; as well as the technical expertise, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, microstates, space control, lasers, high power microwaves, and communications to assist SWC related activities. At this time, no money has been obligated. The work will be completed September 2007. The 50th Space Wing, Schriever Air Force Base, Co., is the contracting activity (FA2550-01-D-0003/P00016). NAVY Reyes Construction, Inc.*, Pomona, Calif.; Cutting Edge Concrete Services, Inc.*; Oro Grande, Calif.; Hal Hays Construction, Inc.*, Riverside, Calif.; and Pave-Tech, Inc.*, Carlsbad, Calif., are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract for new construction and repair primarily by design-build or secondarily by design-bid-build of paving, both portland cement concrete and hot mix asphalt, and associated site improvements at various locations within the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility. The total contract amount is not to exceed $100,000,000 (base period and four option years) with a guaranteed minimum of $25,000. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations within the Southwest Division AOR including, but not limited to, California (80 percent), Arizona (16 percent), Nevada (2 percent), and New Mexico (2 percent), and is expected to be completed August 2007 (August 2011 with options). Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured as unrestricted via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with eight proposals received. These four contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-06-D-1062/1063/1064/1065). Crowder Construction Co., Apex, N.C., is being awarded a $13,673,600 firm-fixed-price construction contract for wastewater treatment plant biological nutrient removal system repairs, Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, N.C. The work to be performed includes the modification and construction of wastewater treatment plant components, including demolition, site preparation, earthwork, pavements, utilities and all incidental related work. The work will be performed in Cherry Point, N.C., and is expected to be completed March 2008. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with two offers received. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-06-C-4007). Communication & Power Industries, Microwave Power Products Division, Palo Alto, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $11,400,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for major repair/replacement of a minimum 2 to a maximum of 600 high band traveling wave tubes in support of the AN/ALQ-126B system. The AN/ALQ-126B system is an air-born defensive electronic counter measures system. The contract combines support for the Navy (90 percent) with the governments of Korea (5 percent) and Japan (5 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed in Palo Alto, Calif., and is expected to be completed by August 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured and advertised via the Internet, with four offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-06-D-8956). Logistic Systems International Inc., Jacksonville, Fla., is being awarded a $10,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract to re-engineer, revise/enhance and migrate the current journeymen level engineer instructor-led training classes at the Center for Naval Engineering in Norfolk, Va., into self-paced instruction courses. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla. and is expected to be completed in December 2008. Contract funds in the amount of $10,000,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via an electronic request for proposals; nine offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-06-C-0166). Pole Zero Corp.*, West Chester, Ohio, is being awarded a $9,877,062 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the procurement of Co-Site UHF SATCOM filters and interface adapters in support of the Air Force Remote Radio Secure Voice System Program. Work will be performed in West Chester, Ohio, and is expected to be completed in August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Warfare Center Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-06-D-0036). Kalman & Co., Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded $9,582,905 for award term task order 0006 to previous awarded task order 0004 under a previously awarded contract (M67854-03-A-5158) for business and analytical support for the Joint Program Executive Office, Chemical and Biological Defense Systems. Funding in the amount of $5,093,759 is being applied at the time of award. The contractor will conduct comparative analysis of costs, quantify benefits and attendant risks, and fully evaluate each alternative through appropriate stakeholder business forums and will develop best business practices and effective course of action selection criteria for the portfolio of acquisition programs and initiatives. Ancillary efforts will include subject matter expertise representation at stakeholder sponsored forums, POM and budget planning, preparing Congressional testimony and briefings, and ensuring a comprehensive program of technology insertion is established and maintained. Work will be performed in Falls Church, Va., and is expected to be completed in August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contract activity. Triton Services, Inc. Easton, Pa., is being awarded a maximum $6,329,570 firm-fixed-price, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, for major repair/replacement of a minimum 2 and a maximum of 400 low band traveling wave tubes in support of the AN/ALQ-126B system. The AN/ALQ-126B system is an air-born defensive electronic counter measures system. Work will be performed in Easton, Pa., and is expected to be completed by August 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured and advertised via the Internet, with four offers received. The contract combines support for the Navy (90 percent) with the governments of Korea (5 percent) and Japan (5 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-06-D-8989). General Dynamics Network Systems, Inc., Needham Heights, Mass. is being awarded a $5,500,000 fixed-price incentive-fee task order under the Air Force's network-centric solutions contract for the Automated Digital Network System Increment III (FA8771-04-D-0007, NS03). Automated Digital Network System Increment III will provide an all Internet protocol converged voice, video, and data solution, with the ability to transport non-Internet Protocol legacy applications. Additional capabilities include Internet protocol version 4 and version 6 dual stack, enhanced Quality of Service, increased system bandwidth and throughput, and ciphertext core routing. Work will be performed in Needham Heights, Mass., and is expected to be completed by September 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with seven proposals solicited and two offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, Calif. is the contracting activity (FA8771-04-D0007). Sauer Incorp., d/b/a Sauer Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is being awarded $5,073,637 for firm-fixed task order 0002 under previously awarded multiple award construction contract (MACC) (N62467-05-D-0181) for design and construction of Hanger 5, Building 285 and Building 195 roof repairs, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, La. Work will be performed in New Orleans, La., and is expected to be completed by June 2007. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured and award made to multiple contractors on Aug. 29, 2005. The basic total contract amount is not to exceed $350,000,000, which includes the base period and four option years. The MACC contractors (eight in number) may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the existing contract. Four proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast, North Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity. MCC Construction Corp., Storrs, Conn., is being awarded $5,280,462 for firm-fixed-price modification 01 to task order 0037 under previously awarded indefinite-delivery, facilities management job order contract (FMJOC) (N62472-03-D-0077) to exercise option 1 to Task Order 0037 for specific maintenance to Building 308 at the Naval Supply Activity, Mechanicsburg, Pa. The task order modification is for the replacement of chiller, pumps, and cooling tower at the Naval Supply Activity, Mechanicsburg, Pa. The basic FMJOC was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with seven proposals received and award was made on Aug. 15, 2003. The total contract amount is not to exceed $30,000,000, which includes the base period and four option years. The award of this option brings the total task order value to $11,501,529. Work will be performed in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and is expected to be completed December 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, is the contracting activity.
The Department of Defense will participate in the following events within the National Capitol Region to help commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attack: Sept. 7- 8. Registration and T-shirt pick-up for the National Freedom Walk at the Pentagon, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. EDT (additional details and locations for local Freedom Walks throughout the U.S. available at http://www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil. Sept. 9. Public Tours of the Pentagon, to include the site of the attack and the Pentagon Chapel 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sept. 10. National Freedom Walk starts 6:30 p.m., on the National Mall and finishes at the Pentagon with a tribute by Opera Singer Denyse Graves and an illumination ceremony. The illumination ceremony will include 184 beams of light to commemorate each life lost in the attack on the Pentagon and each light will remain lit throughout September 11. Sept. 11. There will be five events: • Radio Day beginning 5:30 am, where more than two dozen radio hosts will conduct live interviews with a wide range of government and DoD employees and service members throughout the day. • Family Memorial Ceremony, 9:30 a.m., outside at the Pentagon Mall Entrance (closed to the public). Invitees include victims' family members and employees who were in the Pentagon, September 11, 2001. • Pentagon Employee Memorial Ceremony, 10 a.m., in the Pentagon Auditorium (closed to the public with media pool coverage); hosted by the Pentagon's chaplains and include a musical tribute by Selah, a contemporary Christian Group. • Bicycle Tour de Force, 11 a.m., at the Pentagon, when representatives from the New York City Police Department arrive on bikes from New York City. • Redskins Season Kickoff, 7 p.m., Landover, Md., where Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will participate in the opening coin toss; a joint service color guard and joint service soloists will perform the national anthem followed by an Army Apache helicopter flyover.
CONTRACTS NAVY Northrop Grumman Space & Mission Systems Corp., Fairfax, Va., is being awarded a $218,759,069 cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for technical services in support of the U.S. Joint Forces Command, Joint Warfighting Center. This contract includes a base period of two years, plus two additional two-year options, which if exercised, bring the total estimated value of the contract to $686,108,614. Work will be performed in Suffolk, Va. (95 percent), and various government sites (5 percent), and work is expected to be completed by August 2008. Contract funds in the amount of $13,000,000 will expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured through Navy Electronic Commerce Online, with two offers received. The Fleet and Industrial Supply Center, Norfolk, Contracting Department Philadelphia Division is the contracting activity (N00140-06-D-0060). NAMMO Raufoss AS, Raufoss, Norway, is being awarded an $8,449,616 firm-fixed-price contract for 39,776 rounds of MK 285 40 mm programmable pre-fragmented, high explosive (PPHE) ammunition. The NAMMO AS 40 mm PPHE cartridge utilizes an electronically programmable time fuze (Mk438), which also has a point detonating and self-destruct function. The programming allows the round to detonate at the correct moment to cause maximum impact on targets hidden behind cover, on rooftops, behind corners, inside buildings or in trenches. Work will be performed in Raufoss, Norway, and is expected to be completed by November 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-06-C-4879). AIR FORCE Today the Air Force is awarding a $1,900,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to the following contractors: Aerospace Engineering Spectrum, Ltd., South Ogden, Utah ; Anteon Corporation, Fairfax, Va.; CACI Technologies, Inc., Chantilly, Va.; Lockheed Martin Integrated Systems, Bethesda, Md.; MTC Technologies, Dayton, Ohio; Science Applications International Services, San Diego, Calif.; TCS Design and Management Services, Warner Robins, Ga.; DRS Technical and Management Service, Beltsville, Md.; TYBRIN Corporation, Fort Walton, Beach, Fla.; The University of Dayton Research Institute, Dayton, Ohio. This action provides for Engineering and technical services in support of the Design and Engineering Support Program II to support all AFMC weapon systems, subsystems, and related processes. The Design and Engineering Support Program II contract will address technical areas such as laboratory services, technical documentation, courseware development, systems design, engineering, development, software, environmental, health, and safety. This work will be complete June 2012. To date each contractor has been obligated $50,000. Headquarters Ogden Air Logistics Center, Hill Air Force Base, Utah is the contracting activity. Public Affairs point of contact is Marilu Trainor at 801-777-2286 (FA8222-06-D-0001, FA8222-06-D-0002, FA8222-06-D-0003, FA8222-06-D-0004, FA8222-06-D-0005, FA8222-06-D-0006, FA8222-06-D-0007, FA8222-06-D-0008, FA8222-06-D-0009, FA8222-06-D-0010). BAE Systems/Rockwell Collins, Datalink Solutions, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a $10,563,384 firm-fixed-price contract. This action provides for the purchase of 18 countermeasure test sets. This work will be complete 18 months after receipt of order. To date, $10,563,384 has been obligated. Headquarters Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (F09603-03D-00010172). Harris Technical Services Corp., Colorado Springs, Co., is being awarded a $38,520,247 cost plus incentive fee, with award fee and performance incentives contract modification. This action provides for operations, maintenance, logistics and training support for the Air Force Satellite Control Network weapon system at remote tracking stations around the world. Also, maintenance and logistics support of Global Positioning System; orbital analysis of military satellites in orbit in support of military satellite controllers; and provide security forces at New Boston Air Force Station, New Hampshire. The work will be completed September 2007. To date $32,274,876 has been obligated. The 50th Space Wing, Schriever Air Force Base, Co. is the contracting activity (FA2550-00-C-0010/P00179). Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $5,877,875 firm fixed price contract. This action acknowledges the delay and disruption cost impacts to the Global Hawk EMD contract for incorporation of the Fielding Strategy Acceleration. To date $5,877,875 has been obligated. The work will be complete October 2009. Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-01-C-4600). Radian Inc., Alexandria, Va., is being awarded a $6,964,937 firm fixed price contract modification. This action provides for prime power units and various secondary equipment of the Deployable Power Generator Distribution System. To date $6,964,937 has been obligated. The work will be complete eight to twelve months after award, depending on item. Headquarters Air Combat Support Systems Group, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8676-06-C-0105/P00008). McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $9,487,236 cost plus fixed fee contract. The Air Force is awarding a Joint Capabilities Technology Demonstration contract was approved by OSD to demonstrate the military utility of a low collateral damage warhead comprised of a composite case and multi-phase blast explosive fill integrated onto a Small Diameter Bomb I weapon. This new weapon variant is called a Focused Lethality Munition. This effort is for integrating and testing the new warhead onto the Small Diameter Bomb I weapon. To date $3,000,000 has been obligated. The work will be complete September 2007. Headquarters Air Armament Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8681-06-C-0228). BAE Systems Technical Services, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., is being awarded a $7,200,000 firm fixed price, cost reimbursable, cost plus fixed fee, and fixed price incentive fee contract modification. The Instrumentation Radar Support Program provides serviceable radar components and subsystems and technical field support for instrumentation radar of the C and X band families located on 25 ranges in the United States and in four foreign countries (United Kingdom, Republic of Korea, Taiwan an Germany). The contractor augments the maintenance capabilities of using agencies with one-of-a-kind parts and supplies, on-site overhauls and emergency technical support. To date no funds have been obligated. The work will be complete September 2007. The 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity (F08650-01-C-0066/P00193). Phoenix Management Inc., Austin Tx., is being awarded a $19,164,623 firm fixed price award fee contract with cost reimbursement and labor hour contract line items contract. The purpose of this multi-wing logistics support contract is to provide a variety of non-personal logistics support service for HQ AFSPC/A4R and the 21st Space Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, 50th Logistics Readiness Flight at Schreiver Air Force Base, 460th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, 341st Logistics Readiness Squadron Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, and the 30th Logistics Readiness Squadron Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The services include Base Supply Support (to include Mobility Bags (MOBAGS) and Individual Body Armor (IBA) Management, HAZMART Function, Fuels Management and Support, Missile Material Control), CE Materiel Control, Vehicle Operation and Maintenance, Base Transportation, Surface Freight Operations, Regional Supply Backstop Support. To date no funds have been obligated. The work will be complete September 2007. The 21st Space Wing, Peterson Air Force Base, Co. is the contracting activity (F05603-01-C-0001). Defense Systems, North Amityville, N.Y., is being awarded a $10,000,000 firm fixed price contract. This action provides for bomb rack units, in support of F-22 aircraft. To date $5,000,000 has been obligated. The work will be complete January 2009. Headquarters 542d Combat Sustainment Wing, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8520-06-C-0015). McDonnell Douglas Corp., Long Beach, Calif., is being awarded a $7,109,090 time and material contract modification. This contract modification to the C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership (GSP) contract to increase ceiling and funding FY04/FY05 and increase funding for FY06 Material Improvement Projects (MIPs) for the USAF. The MIP program was established on P00037 based on estimated performance requirements for non-recurring engineering and retrofit. This estimated annual program does not identify specific MIPs to be performed, just general requirements. To date $11,718,877 has been obligated. The work will be complete September 2011. Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004/P00130). ARMY AM General L.L.C., South Bend, Ind., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a $41,722,493 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for M1152A1 vehicles for the high mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicle. Work will be performed in South Bend, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 17, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001). GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 25, 2006, a delivery order amount of $25,000,000 as part of a $194,083,293 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the mobile gun system vehicle and nuclear biological chemical reconnaissance vehicle test support. Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich. (80 percent), and London Ontario, Canada (20 percent), and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on April 6, 2000, and 17 bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-M051). O'Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Co., Fairfield, Ohio, was awarded on Aug. 25, 2006, a $36,802,362 modification to an undefinitized contract for production of Frag Kit #5 Field Kits. Work will be performed in Fairfield, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 10, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-C-S019). BAE Systems Ordnance Systems Inc., Kingsport, Tenn., was awarded on Aug. 28, 2006, a $31,000,000 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for the Production Base Support Program. Work will be performed in Kingsport, Tenn., and is expected to be completed by July 31, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 9, 2006. The U.S. Army Sustainment Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (DAAA09-98-E-0006). DNE Technologies, Wallingford, Conn., was awarded on Aug. 23, 2006, a delivery order amount of $18,416,832 as part of a $60,620,160 firm-fixed-price contract for Procurement of the AN/FCC-100 Multiplexer Items. Work will be performed in Wallingford, Conn., and is expected to be completed by Nov. 30, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 14, 2001. The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (DAAB07-01-D-A019). The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Akron, Ohio, was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a $17,668,237 firm-fixed-price contract for the pneumatic tires for the high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle. Work will be performed in Topeka, Kan., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 25, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on June 27, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-06-C-0650). GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 28, 2006, a delivery order amount of $15,800,000 as part of a $4,802,051,639 firm-fixed-price contract for the air conditioning kits for the Stryker Vehicle. Work will be performed in Auburn, Wash., and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on April 20, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-00-D-M051). AM General L.L.C., South Bend, Ind., was awarded on Aug. 25, 2006, a $14,982,084 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for procurement of Fragment 5 Retrofit Field Kits. Work will be performed in South Bend, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 17, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001). United Parcel Service, Washington, D.C., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a delivery order amount of $13,008,913 as part of a $51,400,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Support of the Defense Logistics Agency's Surface Small Package Program. Work will be performed in Susquehanna, Pa. (16 percent), New Cumberland, Pa. (16 percent), San Joaquin, Calif. (23.7 percent), Mechanicsburg, Pa. (16 percent), Richmond, Va. (3 percent), Anniston, Ala. (1.5 percent), Barstow, Calif. (1.5 percent), San Diego, Calif. (1.5 percent), Jacksonville, Fla. (1.5 percent) Albany, Ga. (1.5 percent), Warner Robbins, Ga. (1.5 percent), Cherry Point, N.C. (1.5 percent), Corpus Christi, Texas (1.5 percent), Norfolk, Va. (1.5 percent), Depot Hill, Utah (1.5 percent), Puget Sound, Wash. (1.5 percent), Red River, Texas (1.5 percent), Tobyhanna, Pa. (1.5 percent), Oklahoma City, Okla. (1.5 percent), and Columbus, Ohio (1.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Aug. 20, 2003, and three bids were received. The Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W81GYE-04-D-0034). FEDEX Ground Package Systems Inc., Coraopolis, Pa., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a delivery order amount of $11,493,525 as part of a $48,200,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Support of the Defense Logistics Agency's Surface Small Package Program. Work will be performed in Susquehanna, Pa. (16.8 percent), New Cumberland, Pa. (16.8 percent), San Joaquin, Calif. (26 percent), Mechanicsburg, Pa. (16.8 percent), Richmond, Va. (3 percent), Anniston, Ala. (1.5 percent), Barstow, Calif. (1.5 percent), San Diego, Calif. (1.5 percent), Jacksonville, Fla. (1.5 percent) Albany, Ga. (1.5 percent), Warner Robbins, Ga. (1.5 percent), Cherry Point, N.C. (1.5 percent), Corpus Christi, Texas (1.5 percent), Norfolk, Va. (1.5 percent), Depot Hill, Utah (1.5 percent), Puget Sound, Wash. (1.5 percent), Red River, Texas (1.5 percent), Tobyhanna, Pa. (1.5 percent), Oklahoma City, Okla. (1.5 percent), and Columbus, Ohio (1.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Aug. 20, 2003, and three bids were received. The Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W81GYE-04-D-0033). Atherton Construction Inc., Las Vegas, Nev., was awarded on Aug. 25, 2006, a $9,032,341 firm-fixed-price contract for Army family housing improvements. Work will be performed in Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah, and is expected to be completed by Feb. 19, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 26 bids solicited on April 20, 2006, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento, Calif., is the contracting activity (W91238-06-C-0024). Butt Construction Company Inc.*, Dayton, Ohio, was awarded on Aug. 23, 2006, an $8,923,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of a command and control facility at the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center. Work will be performed in Lima, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 27 bids solicited on June 20, 2006, and five bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0043). Raytheon Co., Andover, Mass., was awarded on Aug. 23, 2006, an $8,470,082 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for FY 06 PATRIOT Engineering Services. Work will be performed in Burlington, Mass. (3.4 percent), Huntsville, Ala. (8.79 percent), Andover, Mass. (9.65 percent), Tewksbury, Mass. (76.64 percent), El Paso, Texas (1.47 percent), and Norfolk, Va. (.05 percent), and is expected to be completed by Jan. 9, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 26, 2003. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0020). Universal Technologies Inc.*, Estill Springs, Tenn., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a delivery order amount of $7,611,600 as part of a $43,948,250 firm-fixed-price contract for manufacture, inspection, assembly, packing and delivery of M192 Lightweight Ground Mount Units. Work will be performed in Estill Springs, Tenn., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 30, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on April 21, 2006, and six bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Picatinny, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-06-D-0023). General Dynamics C4 Systems, Taunton, Mass., was awarded on Aug. 28, 2006, a $7,259,000 increment as part of a $202,503,038 cost-plus-award-fee contract for an engineering change to the Warfighter Information Network - Tactical System Development and Demonstration. Work will be performed in Taunton, Mass. (50 percent), and Gaithersburg, Md. (50 percent), and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 1, 2006. The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (DAAB07-02-C-F404). R.L. Alvarez, TMS Contracting L.L.C., and Howard W. Pence (Joint Venture)*, Clarksville, Tenn., was awarded on Aug. 24, 2006, a $5,855,387 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of Gate 4, primary access control point upgrade. Work will be performed at Fort Campbell, Ky., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 1, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 32 bids solicited on June 19, 2006, and five bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0039). DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Alaska Structures, Inc., Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for shelters, components, and trailers. This is an indefinite delivery contract exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Other location of performance is Mesilla Park, N.M. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM100-05-D-6064). Anchor Industries, Evansville, Ind., is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM1C1-06-D-6005). Base-X Expedition Shelters, Fairfield, Va., is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters, trailers, and components. This contract is exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM100-05-D-6063). Celina Tent, Inc., Celina, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters. This is an indefinite delivery contract exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM1C1-06-D-6001). DHS Systems, LLC, Orangeburg, N.Y., * is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters, components, and trailers. This is an indefinite delivery contract exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM100-05-D-6060). Johnson Outdoors, Binghamton, N.Y., is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters, and components. This is an indefinite delivery contract exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM100-05-D-6059). Schutt Industries, Clintonville, Wis., is being awarded a maximum $96,000,000 firm fixed price contract for a variety of shelters and trailers. This is an indefinite delivery contract exercising option year 1 of a base year and four 1-year term options. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Gateway-solicited and 10 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM1C1-06-D-6002). Aircraft Braking Systems Corp., Akron, Ohio, is being awarded a maximum $7,436,353 firm fixed price contract for aircraft supplies. This is an indefinite quantity contract. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This is Gateway-solicited sole source competition and 1 responded. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is September 2, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR), Richmond, Va. (SP0400-02-D-9403). * Small Business
CONTRACTS NAVY Contingency Response Services, LLC, Irving, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $450,000,000 (guaranteed minimum of $100,000) cost-plus-award-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide short term facilities support services with incidental construction in response to natural disasters, humanitarian efforts, contingencies and other requirements (i.e. due to non-performance by an incumbent contractor or instances where there is an unanticipated lapse in service) at various locations (including remote locations) throughout the world. The work to be performed provides for all labor, supervision, management, tools, materials, equipment, facilities, transportation, incidental engineering, and other items necessary to provide facilities support services. Work will be performed at multiple sites worldwide - the exact location of individual efforts will be designated on individual task orders, and work is expected to be completed August 2007 (August 2011 with options). Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with four offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Services Contracts Division, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-06-D-1113). Northrop Grumman Ship Systems (NGSS), Pascagoula, Miss., is being awarded a $95,892,863 cost-plus-award-fee/cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for DDG 1000 Zumwalt Class destroyer detail design, maintenance of the DDG 1000 integrated data environment (IDE), and procurement of vendor furnished information (VFI) and long lead material (LLM) to support detail design. The total value of the detail design effort is $307,511,633, with $39,412,519 funded at contract award for advanced zone detail design. The remaining detail design efforts are included in a priced option valued at $268,099,114. The IDE maintenance effort will be fully funded at contract award in the amount of $11,480,344. Also at contract award, NGSS will be awarded a Not-to-Exceed (NTE) line item for procurement of VFI and LLM valued at $45,000,000. The maximum amount for which the Government is liable under the NTE prior to definitization is $22,500,000 (total funding at contract award). The mission of the DDG 1000 Zumwalt Class of Destroyers is to provide affordable and credible independent forward presence/deterrence and to operate as an integral part of the Naval, Joint, or Combined Maritime Forces. DDG 1000 will provide advanced land attack capability in support of the ground campaign and contribute Naval, Joint, or Combined battle-space dominance in littoral operations. Work will be performed in Pascagoula, Miss., and is expected to be completed by September 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-06-C-2304). American Science & Engineering, Billerica, Mass., is being awarded a $46,490,587 firm-fixed-price service contract for service and maintenance support for 67 Z-Backscatter Systems, associated manuals, and spare parts. Work will be performed in various locations within the countries of Iraq and Afghanistan, and work is expected to be completed May 2009. Contract funds will expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is a sole source award to American Science & Engineering as they are the sole proprietor of the maintenance service of the Z-Backscatter System. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-06-C-5163). John C. Grimberg, Co., Inc., Rockville, Md., is being awarded a $10,918,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of the Academic Program Center/Graduate School of Nursing addition project at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. The building addition includes expansion of an underground parking area, classrooms and administrative office space. The work will be performed in Bethesda, Md., and is expected to be complete by December 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with seven offers received. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity, (N40080-06-C-0014). BAE Systems San Francisco Ship Repair, San Francisco, Calif, is being awarded a $6,798,108 firm-fixed-price contract for a 94-calendar-day regular overhaul and drydocking of Military Sealift Command's fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7). This is a major drydock and overhaul of various ships equipment, machinery, navigational gear and underway replenishment equipment. The work includes main propulsion shafting, preservation of the hull and freeboard and overhauling of sea valves. The contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the total contract value to $8,642,058. Work will be performed in San Francisco, Calif., and is expected to be completed in December 2006. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with two offers received. The Military Sealift Fleet Support Command, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40442-06-C-2500). Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a potential $6,080,435 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Command Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence (C4I) software applications and databases. Specific efforts will include engineering products related to C4I software applications and database or database management systems for current and new C4I systems. System engineering efforts may include support for the web-enablement of applications and services to support service oriented architectures and net-centric warfare efforts. The technical support shall entail the full range of software development including system requirements, design, implementation, integration, and documentation. This contract is one of six contracts awarded: all six awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This one-year contract includes four, one-year options, which, if exercised, will bring the potential, cumulative value of the contract to $28,915,647. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities website and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with 10 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-06-D-0028). Sound & Sea Technology, Inc.*, Edmonds, Wash., is receiving $5,647,000 for modification P00005 under a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N62473-06-D-3005) to exercise option year one. The work to be performed provides for ocean engineering services that include project planning and execution of sub-sea cable projects including shore landings, seafloor engineering, ocean work platform support, underwater construction tool development, offshore structure and buoy projects, marine power systems, heavy load handling engineering, and harbor and waterside security projects. This modification will increase the value of the contract by bringing the total contract value to $11,231,723. The total contract amount is not to exceed $29,530,702. Work will be performed at various installations under Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's area of responsibility worldwide, and work is expected to be completed August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured via the Naval Facilities Engineering Command e-solicitation website with two offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest, Specialty Center Contracts Core, Port Hueneme, Calif., is the contracting activity. Forward Slope, Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a potential $5,642,799 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Command Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence (C4I) software applications and databases. Specific efforts will include engineering products related to C4I software applications and database or database management systems for current and new C4I systems. System engineering efforts may include support for the web-enablement of applications and services to support service oriented architectures and net-centric warfare efforts. The technical support shall entail the full range of software development including system requirements, design, implementation, integration, and documentation. This contract is one of six contracts awarded: all six awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This one-year contract includes four, one-year options, which, if exercised, will bring the potential, cumulative value of the contract to $26,573,446. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities website and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with 10 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-06-D-0133). MAXIM Systems, Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a potential $5,542,847 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Command Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence (C4I) software applications and databases. Specific efforts will include engineering products related to C4I software applications and database or database management systems for current and new C4I systems. System engineering efforts may include support for the web-enablement of applications and services to support service oriented architectures and net-centric warfare efforts. The technical support shall entail the full range of software development including system requirements, design, implementation, integration, and documentation. This contract is one of six contracts awarded: all six awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This one-year contract includes four, one-year options, which, if exercised, will bring the potential, cumulative value of the contract to $26,210,734. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities website and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with 10 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-06-D-0135). FGM, Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a potential $5,503,478 indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Command Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence (C4I) software applications and databases. Specific efforts will include engineering products related to C4I software applications and database or database management systems for current and new C4I systems. System engineering efforts may include support for the web-enablement of applications and services to support service oriented architectures and net-centric warfare efforts. The technical support shall entail the full range of software development including system requirements, design, implementation, integration, and documentation. This contract is one of six contracts awarded: all six awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This one-year contract includes four, one-year options, which, if exercised, will bring the potential, cumulative value of the contract to $26,837,830. All work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and work is expected to be completed August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities website and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central website, with 10 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-06-D-0132). DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Science Applications International Corporation, Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $500,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment for maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) supplies for the Northeast Region, Zone 1. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity contract exercising option year 1. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Web-solicited and 7 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP24). Graybar Electric Company, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $400,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment for maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) supplies for the Northeast Region, Zone 2. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity contract exercising option year 1. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Web-solicited and 7 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 30, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP25). BOH Environmental, LLC, New Orleans, La., is being awarded a maximum $40,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment for specialized shipping/storage containers, accessories, and related items. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This is a sole source competition with 1 solicited and 1 responded. This contract is exercising year 3 of three one-year options. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Sept. 4, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0500-01-R-0009). Wolverine World Wide, Rockford, Mich., is being awarded a maximum $7,733,987 fixed price with economic price adjustment for men and women safety shoes. Using services are Army, Navy, and Air Force. Locations of performance include Jonesboro, Ark.; Big Rapids and Cedar Springs, Mich. There were 70 proposals solicited and 3 responded. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity type contract. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 31, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0100-06-D-0352). Crown Clothing Company, Vineland, N. J., * is being awarded a maximum $5,016,276 firm fixed price for men's wool coat for Marine Corps. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity contract exercising option year 1. There were 4 proposals solicited and 4 responded. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 31, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0100-05-D-0504). DEFENSE COMMISSARY AGENCY Spokane Produce Incorporated, is being awarded an indefinite delivery, requirements type contract to provide fresh fruits and vegetables (FF&V) for resale at 9 commissary store locations throughout Washington, Montana and Idaho. The estimated award amount is $23,686,896.50. Contractor will deliver FF&V to the store locations as needed. The contract is for a two year base period beginning Oct. 1, 2006 through Sept. 30, 2008. Two one-year option periods are available. If both option periods are exercised, the contract will be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Seventy-five firms were solicited and six offers were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Commissary Agency, Resale Contracting Division, Resale Services Support Branch, (HDEC02-06-D-0015). Di Tomasos Inc., is being awarded an indefinite delivery, requirements type contract to provide fresh fruits and vegetables (FF&V) for resale at multiple commissary store locations in the state of Alaska. The estimated award amount is $6,661,885.00. Contractor will deliver FF&V to the store locations as needed. The contract is for a two year base period beginning Oct. 1, 2006 through Sept. 30, 2008. Two one-year option periods are available. If both option periods are exercised, the contract will be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Seventy-five firms were solicited and three offers were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Commissary Agency, Resale Contracting Division, Resale Services Support Branch, (HDEC02-06-D-0016).
Atlanta will join communities across America to host a Freedom Walk Sept. 11, the fifth anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks against the United States. The Freedom walk is being sponsored by Checkers restaurants, and presented by Operation Homefront. "We wanted to reflect on the events that happened on 9/11 at the Pentagon and the twin towers in New York City, and in Pennsylvania," said Vicki Sarracino, president of the Georgia chapter of Operation Homefront. "And we also wanted to renew our commitment to freedom and the values of our country, and to honor the veterans past and present." Both Checkers and Operation Homefront are members of the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights ways the American people and the corporate sector support the nation's servicemembers. Operation Homefront volunteers, as well as community members, are expected to participate in the 1.2-mile Freedom Walk, which will begin at 9 a.m. at Turner Field. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. in the nearby Lexis parking lot. As of this morning, 112 similar Freedom Walks are planned in 49 states and the District of Columbia to remember those who lost their lives Sept. 11 and to honor America's military veterans, past and present. The local events around the country parallel the Washington, D.C., Freedom Walk scheduled Sept. 10 and sponsored by DoD's America Supports You program. Sarracino stressed the importance of supporting America's men and women in uniform. "They are essential for our freedom," she said. "Our troops have done so much for us in the past and the present. We just feel that people need to be made aware of all that they do, and their sacrifices." The first America Supports You Freedom Walk, held on Sept. 11, 2005, in the nation's capital, brought together more than 15,000 walkers - including family members of 9/11 victims, members of Congress, administration officials, federal workers, corporate employees, civic organizations and citizens from around the country. Information for people interested in organizing Freedom Walk observances in their communities is available at the America Supports You Freedom Walk Web site.
An early withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq would give victory to the terrorists and put the American people in danger, President Bush said here yesterday. "If America were to pull out before Iraq can defend itself, the consequences would be disastrous," Bush said during his weekly radio address to the nation. "We would be handing Iraq over to the terrorists, giving them a base of operations and huge oil riches to fund their ambitions." Bush said violent terrorist groups such as al Qaeda want to overthrow western-style democracies in the Middle East -- and beyond -- and then install their oppressive, backward and twisted concept of Islam. "If we give up the fight in the streets of Baghdad, we will face the terrorists in the streets of our own cities," Bush said. "The security of the civilized world depends on victory in the war on terror, and that depends on victory in Iraq. "So, America will not leave until victory is achieved." U.S officials believe the radical Islamic terrorists' game plan was fully unveiled during the al Qaeda-masterminded terrorist attacks on America on Sept. 11, 2001, in which nearly 3,000 innocent people were murdered in New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pa. Bush has often said the terrorists want to chase the United States out of the Middle East, take over, and then expand their ideology outward. If that occurs, then future generations of Americans would be in for a grim time, the president said. "Our children will face a region dominated by terrorist states and radical dictators armed with nuclear weapons," Bush predicted. Therefore, America's only correct course, Bush said, is to continue to work with allies to provide support to moderate Middle East governments, like Iraq, and to confront and defeat terrorists wherever they may be. "The path to victory will be uphill and uneven," the president acknowledged, "and it will require more patience and sacrifice from our nation." Yet, Americans can be assured of eventual triumph over the terrorists, Bush said, "because America will not waver - and because the direction of history leads toward freedom."
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Jordan C. Pierson, 21, of Milford, Conn., died Aug. 25 while
conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to
the 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division,
Plainville, Conn.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. William E. Thorne, 26, of Hospers, Iowa, died on Aug 24, of
injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his
HMMWV during combat operations. Thorne was assigned to the 1st Squadron,
10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood,
Texas.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Gordon G. Solomon, 35, of Fairborn, Ohio, died Aug. 24
while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq.He was
assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II
Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Marquees A. Quick, 28, of Hoover Ala., died on Aug 19, in Ar
Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries suffered while conducting security and
observation operations, when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using
multiple grenades.Quick was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Jeremy E. King, 23, of Meridian, Idaho, died on Aug. 24, in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained by enemy forces using small arms fire
during combat operations. King was assigned to the 8th Squadron, 10th
Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Dwayne E. Williams, 28, of Baltimore, Md., died Aug. 24
while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was
assigned to 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III
Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lance Cpl. James D. Hirlston, 21, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., died Aug. 23 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Thomas J. Barbieri, 24, of Gaithersburg, Md., died on Aug. 23 south of Baghdad, Iraq when his patrol encountered enemy forces small arms fire during combat operations. Barbieri was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Soldier Killed in Iraq; DoD Identifies Previous Casualties
A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier died at about 8 a.m. today when an improvised explosive device struck the vehicle he was riding in south of Baghdad, U.S. military officials reported. The soldier's name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Meanwhile, the Defense Department released the identities of 12 servicemembers who were killed recently supporting the war on terror. -- Army Pfc. James J. Arellano, 19, of Cheyenne, Wyo., died Aug. 17 in Baghdad of injuries suffered when his patrol encountered enemy forces using IEDs and small-arms fire. Arellano was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -- Army Pvt. Joseph R. Blake, 34, of Portland, Ore., died Aug. 17 in Turkalay, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when his platoon encountered small-arms fire. Blake was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. -- Army Staff Sgt. Jeffrey S. Loa, 32, of Waianae, Hawaii, died Aug. 16 in Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an IED detonated near his dismounted patrol. Loa was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany. -- Navy Hospitalman Chadwick T. Kenyon, 20, of Tucson, Ariz., died Aug. 20 of injuries suffered when his vehicle was struck by an IED while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Iraq's Anbar province. Kenyon was assigned to the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif. -- Marine Cpl. Adam A. Galvez, 21, of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Marine Lance Cpl. Randy L. Newman, 21, of Bend, Ore., died Aug. 20 while conducting combat operations in Iraq's Anbar province. They were assigned to 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif. -- Army Sgt. Gabriel G. DeRoo, 25, of Paw Paw, Mich., died Aug. 20 in Mosul, Iraq, of injuries suffered when he encountered enemy forces using small-arms fire. DeRoo was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash. -- Army Sgt. Wakkuna A. Jackson, 21, of Jacksonville, Fla.; Army Spc. Robert E. Drawl Jr., 21, of Alexandria, Va.; and Army Spc. Christopher F. Sitton, 21, of Montrose, Colo., died in Kunar, Afghanistan, Aug. 19 when an IED detonated near their convoy vehicle. Jackson was assigned to the 710th Combat Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; Drawl was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; and Sitton was assigned to the 710th Combat Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. -- Air Force Master Sgt. Brad A. Clemmons, 37, of Chillicothe, Ohio, died Aug. 21 when an IED struck his vehicle. The vehicle was part of a transportation convoy en route to Taji, Iraq. Clemmons was assigned to the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. -- Army Sgt 1st Class Ruben J. Villa Jr., of El Paso, Texas, died Aug. 18 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from a non-combat related cause. Villa was assigned to the Army's Area Support Group, Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.
Detainee Transfer Announced
The Department of Defense announced today that it transferred five
detainees from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Afghanistan. These detainees were
all recommended for transfer due to multiple review processes conducted
at Guantanamo Bay.
With today's transfer, approximately 120 detainees remain at
Guantanamo who the U.S. government has determined eligible for transfer or
release through a comprehensive series of review processes. Departure of
these remaining detainees approved for transfer or release is subject to
ongoing discussions between the United States and other nations. The
United States does not desire to hold detainees for any longer than
necessary. The department expects that there will continue to be other
transfers and releases of detainees.
There are ongoing processes to review the status of detainees held at
Guantanamo. A determination about the continued detention or transfer
of a detainee is based on the best information and evidence available at
the time, both classified and unclassified.
With this transfer, approximately 315 detainees have departed
Guantanamo for other countries, including Albania, Afghanistan, Australia,
Bahrain, Belgium, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Iran, Iraq, Jordan,
Kuwait, Maldives, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden,
Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom, and Yemen.
Approximately 445 detainees remain at Guantanamo.
CONTRACTS
ARMY
Northrop Grumann of Linthicum Heights, Md., was awarded Aug. 22 a
firm-fixed price letter contract amounting to $73,999,589 for vehicular
intercom systems, components and spare parts.The work will be conducted in
Linthicum Heights, Md., and is to be completed by Oct. 31, 2008.The
U.S. Army Communications Electronics Command Acquisition Center is the
contracting activity.Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000
(W15P7T-06-C-L010).
Netfires LLC of Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded Aug. 23 a
cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for $54,806,630 as part of an estimated
$1,151,822,232 contract to procure the Non-Line of Sight Launch System Naval
Littoral Combat Ship Integration, System Development and
Demonstration.The work will be conducted in Tucson, Ariz., and Baltimore.It will be
completed by Aug. 31, 2010.The U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command is
the contracting activity.Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703)
692-2000 (W31P4Q-04-C-0059).
Arthur Langhus Layne LLC of Tulsa, Okla., was awarded Aug. 23, 2006 an
indefinite quantity, indefinite delivery firm-fixed price contract with
an estimated value of $7,500,000 for environmental training and
services for Fort Polk, La., and the Southwest Division of the U.S. Army
Engineer District, Tulsa, Okla.The work is to be completed by Aug. 23, 2011
and the contract is for a five-year period, not to exceed
$7,500,000.The U.S. Army District in Tulsa, Okla., is the contracting activity.Army
Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000 (W912BV-06-D-2016).
Stewart & Stevenson Tactical Vehicle Systems Limited Partnership
of Sealy, Texas, was awarded Aug. 23, 2006 a firm-fixed price
cost-reimbursement contract for $9,005,722 as part of the negotiation of an
equitable adjustment for the family of medium tactical vehicles.The work is
being performed in Sealy, Texas, and will be completed by Nov. 15,
2008.Two bids were solicited Aug. 15, 2002, and two offers were
received.The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive Command in Warren, Mich., is the contacting
activity.Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000
(DAAE07-03-C-S023).
Patti Shipyard Inc. of Pensacola, Fla., was awarded Aug. 23, 2006 a
firm-fixed price contract for $12,964,700 for the procurement of a
quarters barge.The work will be performed in Pensacola and will be complete
by Aug. 16, 2007.Bids were solicited via the Internet July 6 and two
offers were received.The U.S. Army Engineer District, Philadelphia, is the
contracting activity.Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703)
692-2000 (W912BU-06-C-0014).
NAVY
Rolls-Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., is being awarded a $12,176,400
modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract
(N00019-95-C-0209) for the procurement of six MV-22 AE-1107C gas turbine
engines to complete the Fiscal Year 2006 option.Work will be performed in
Indianapolis, Ind., and is expected to be completed in January
2008.Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.The
Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting
activity.
BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems, Inc., Greenlawn, N.Y.,
is being awarded a $7,156,851 order against a previously issued
firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract
(N00019-05-D-0027) for the AN/APX-117(V) and AN/APX-118(V), common identification
friend or foe digital transponders systems and associated equipment for
the Navy and Army.This will include the development, manufacture, test,
modification, and delivery of Mode 5 kits and units for use on both
ships and on airborne weapon system platforms, as well as production
engineering services, logistics support services, documentation updates, and
continued support for Mode 5 development and integration.Work will be
performed in Greenlawn, N.Y., and is expected to be completed in
December 2008.Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year.The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the
contracting activity.
A new Web site being developed by the
Defense Department will provide information on electronic voting options for
servicemembers and other U.S. citizens living overseas.
The Integrated Voting Alternative Site, which is scheduled to be
accessible Sept. 1, will include information from all 55 states and
territories on the various electronic ballot request and delivery alternatives
available to U.S. citizens living overseas covered under the Uniformed
and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, said Scott Wiedmann, deputy
director of the Federal Voting Assistance Program. The IVAS will be
found on the Federal Voting Assistance Program Web site, and will be
updated to reflect changes to state laws, he said.
The by-mail ballot system is still the preferred, and most used, voting
method for troops and citizens overseas, Wiedmann said, but it isn't
always available, so DoD developed electronic alternatives starting in
1990.
"Servicemembers, just like any other American citizen, have the right
to participate in the electoral process," he said.
Different states have different electronic voting options, but they
almost all allow overseas citizens to use fax machines for at least part
of the voting process, Wiedmann said. About 30 states offer blank ballot
delivery by fax, and 24 states allow citizens to return ballots by fax,
he said.
Ballots cannot be filled out or submitted online because of security
concerns, Wiedmann said, but the IVAS will have an electronic Federal
Post Card Application - the form citizens use to request an absentee
ballot - that can be filled out and submitted to the state officials via a
secure site. The state officials can then post a blank ballot to the
same site, and the citizen can print it out and mail it back when
completed, he said.
"Where states are able to participate, either through their state laws
or procedures, to use electronic capabilities, we encourage that," he
said. "That helps to cut down part of the process."
State governments are responsible for the voting process, and DoD does
not register any voters or send in ballots, Wiedmann said. The
department simply acts as an intermediary, ensuring citizens covered under the
Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act have a chance to
vote, he said.
"It's our job to carry out that act and do whatever we can to
facilitate that process and that communication between the individual member and
their local election official," he said.
It's important for servicemembers to participate in this year's
election, Wiedmann said, because members of Congress make many decisions
directly affecting the military. Decisions about military pay, housing, and
base closure go through Congress, he noted.
"In that regard, (servicemembers) should always be electing the people
who they feel represent them best," he said.
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE Lockheed Martin Corp., Owego, N.Y., is being awarded a $36,000,000 cost-plus incentive fee contract modification. This action provides for continuing development and integration of several on-going A/OA-10C Suite 3 Precision Engagement fleet modernization and upgrade efforts. At this time $17,029,000 has been obligated. This work will be complete July 2007. Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8635-06-C-6030). Jetsmart Aerospace LLC, Alameda, Calif., is being awarded an $11,632,450 indefinite delivery indefinite quantity type contract. This action is for repair and overhaul of the C-130 auxiliary power units and associated components for the 85 series, and four bearing gas turbine engines. These services are in support of secondary power systems for the Air Force C-130 aircraft and start carts. The estimated quantities for the contract includes the minimum, maximum, and best-estimated quantities based on annual demand or repair rates for each of the applicable line items, and quantity estimates vary per individual item. Approximately 17 repairs contract line items of various input and output configurations will be incorporated into the contract. In addition, and individual contract line item for both not separately data and over and above labor will also be incorporated into the contract. At this time no funds have been obligated. This work will be complete August 2009. Headquarters Ogden Air Logistics Center, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity (FA8208-06-D-0001). Aerojet General Corp., Sacramento, Calif., and ATK Thiokol, Brigham City, Utah are being awarded a $49,000,000 indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contract each. The Air Fore is initiating major efforts to develop new or enhanced technologies in missile propulsion and related inspection systems and service life assessment tools that will lead to the transition of the new technologies into propulsion systems for a prompt global strike capability, a land-based strategic deterrent, and an operationally responsive space lift system. The technology development efforts will be conducted by any contract award through this BAA will be conducted under the guidance of the integrated high payoff rocket propulsion technology program and the technology for the sustainment of strategic systems program. The desired technologies span all areas of application for solid rocket motors, including ballistic and space boost, post boost propulsion and tactical motors. The development activities to be undertaken will also include advanced technologies for predicting and monitoring the remaining service life of solid rocket motors as well as for the modeling and simulation functions to design and assess the performance of solid rocket motors. Analytical tasks required under indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity could fall within the entire range from design conception to performance prediction, including but not limited to, design analysis, structural and thermal analysis, ballistic assessment, and life cycle cost prediction. At this time no funds have been obligated. This work will be complete July 2014. Headquarters Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity (FA9300-06-D-0008 and FA9300-06-D-0004 respectively). ARMY Overlook Systems Technologies Inc. of Vienna, Va., was awarded Aug. 22 an indefinite quantity, indefinite delivery firm-fixed price contract with an estimated value of $32,134,013 to assist in managing the engineering, program oversight and technical development of positioning, navigation and timing efforts for the Defense Department's Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks and Information Integration. The work will be performed at the contractor's Vienna, Va., facilities as well as at government facilities in Los Angeles, Calif.; Albuquerque, N.M.; and Colorado Springs, Colo. This work is estimated to be completed by Aug. 31, 2011. The Contracting Center of Excellence at the Pentagon is the contracting activity. Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000 (W74V8H-06-D-0014). Bryan Construction Inc. of Colorado Springs, Colo., was awarded Aug. 22 a firm-fixed price construction contract at an estimated value of $12,892,102 to build a Global Hawk maintenance hanger. The project includes the two-bay maintenance hanger and an aircraft parking apron at Beale Air Force Base, Colo. The project is scheduled to be complete by Feb. 29, 2008. Twenty bids were solicited Jan 19, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento, is the contracting activity. Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000 (W91238-06-C-0023). General Atomics Aeronautical System of San Diego, Calif., was awarded August 22 a cost plus fixed-fee contract for $11,466,000 as part of an estimated $23.4 million contract to acquire four extended range multi-purpose unmanned aerial vehicles, the associated support equipment and initial spare parts. This work will be completed by Aug. 31, 2007, and will take place at four locations: San Diego, Adelanto and Palmdale, Calif.; and Salt Lake City. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity. Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000 (W58RGZ-06-C-0208). MPRI Inc. of Alexandria, Va., was awarded August 22 a firm-fixed price requirements-type contract for $11,196,996 as the base-period portion of an estimated $34,272,571 contract (if all options are exercised) for recruiting services to the U.S. Army Recruiting Command. The work will be performed at any of the Army's 1,700 recruiting stations nationwide. The contract is for Sep. 1, 2006, to Aug. 31, 2007, with two one-year options through Aug. 31, 2009. Bids were solicited via web site on March 21 and 10 bids were received. The Army Contracting Agency Southern Region, Fort Knox Directorate of Contracting at Fort Knox, Ky., is the contracting activity. Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000 (W9124D-06-D-0034). NAVY Readiness Management Support, LC, Panama City, Fla., is being awarded an estimated $29,846,837 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee, performance-based contract to provide air traffic management and electronic equipment maintenance services to support air traffic control operations, airfield management, air to ground communications operations and maintenance, surveillance and precision radar systems operations and maintenance, voice communications systems operations and maintenance, and aviation weather systems operations and maintenance at multiple locations in the U.S. Central Command Air Force area of responsibility in Southwest Asia, primarily Afghanistan. Work will be performed in Southwest Asia, and is expected to be completed February 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured because it is a sole source acquisition. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity (N65236-06-D-6864). Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded an $11,328,645 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-03-C-0001) for the procurement of joint standoff weapon all up rounds (50 AGM-154A-1 and 54AGM-154C), one AGM-154 dummy air training missile, and 150 containers, including logistics support, technical data, and administrative/financial data for the Government of Turkey. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., and is expected to be completed in April 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command is the contracting activity. CCI, Inc.*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded a $7,422,500 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction for a transducer test/calibration facility at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The work to be performed provides replacing an existing outdated, undersized, and failing acoustical test and calibration tank and associated control center with a new acoustic test and calibration facility connected to existing Building 306. The new facility shall include a 19 meter diameter by 14 meter deep wooden acoustic test tank constructed adjacent to Building 306. Work will be performed in Kittery, Maine, and is expected to be completed by February 2008. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was a sole source negotiated procurement under the U.S. Small Business Administration's 8(a) program. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-06-C-2823). Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,523,892 ceiling-priced letter contract modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-04-C-0569) for the manufacture of 135 C Kits for the FY04/05 Composite Capsule Launching System (CCLS) capsule modification kits and 191 C Kits for the FY06 CCLS capsule retrofit kits. The C Kits provide the capsule closure assembly for the CCLS in order for the CCLS capsule to be compatible with the SSGN submarine environment. Work will be performed in Los Alamitos, Calif. (40 percent); Carpentersville, Ill. (40 percent); and Tucson, Ariz. (20 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2007. Contract funds in the amount of $867,543 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity. SYMTX, Inc.*, Austin, Texas, is being awarded a $5,298,321 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N68335-05-C-0078) to exercise an option for seven Jet Engine Test Instrumentation Units (3 T-6, 2 T-10, and 2 T-36), including associated technical documentation. Work will be performed in Austin, Texas, and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity. Atlantic Positioning Systems, a division of Atlantic Microwave Corp., Bolton, Mass., is being awarded a $5,056,000 letter contract for procurement of the Image Detection System, related spares, technical support, training and documentation, for installation aboard the Italian Navy's Multi-Purpose Vessel. Work will be performed in Clearwater, Fla., and is expected to be completed by June 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract supports the Government of Italy under the Foreign Military Sales program. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-06-C-4210). DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY MidAmerican Energy Co., Davenport, Iowa, is being awarded a maximum 9,561,871 firm fixed price contract for electricity and ancillary services for Argonne, Ill. Using services are Federal civilian agencies. There were 29 proposals solicited and 7 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is June 30, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Energy Supply Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP060-05-D-8017).
Marines here expressed little surprise over plans to recall members of the Marine Corps' Individual Ready Reserve to active duty,
acknowledging that regardless of whether people think it's fair, it's part of the commitment those reservists signed on for. Marine Corps officials earlier this week announced the decision to involuntarily activate up to 2,500 inactive reservists for 12 to 18 months of duty. The decision represents the first involuntary recall in the Marine Corps since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Those affected have already served on active duty and are completing their eight-year military obligations in the IRR. "If I was in their shoes, I probably wouldn't like it," acknowledged Staff Sgt. Dwayne Benjamin, a purchasing chief for the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit here. Although the move probably won't be popular among affected Marines, Benjamin said it shouldn't be completely unexpected. "When you did your first time around (on active duty), you know it was a possibility," he said. "And knowing that it was a possibility, it's something that they should have always kept in mind." Benjamin's views echoed throughout the 15th MEU as the active-duty Marines made last-minute preparations before their next deployment as U.S. Central Command's theater reserve force. Cpl. Juan Juarez, an active-duty administrative clerk who plans to join the Marine Corps Reserve after his upcoming deployment, shrugged when asked about the possibility of involuntary recall. "When you join the Marine Corps, you were joining a way of life," he said. "You knew when you signed up for eight years that it was a possibility, so why not expect it to be eight years?" Cpl. James Johnson, a postal clerk about to leave for his third deployment during his four years in the Marine Corps, said he applauds the decision to commit more Marines to the mission. That will help get the job done faster so U.S. troops can come home sooner, he figures. "So I think it's good. It will be a relief to the active force," he said. Former Marine Corps recruiter Chief Warrant Officer Mike Chaney said he has little patience with anyone who complains that they're being recalled to active duty against their will. "I always told my guys that they were joining the Marine Corps to be a Marine and possibly, if called, to fight for their country," he said. "I told them that any benefits they got were just the icing on the cake. So I have no sympathy for people who complain about being called up to serve their country." President Bush authorized the call-ups from the Marine Corps' 58,000-member IRR pool in late July. The authorization allows the Marines to call up to 2,500 Marines to involuntary service at any one time. The affected Marines will receive at least five months notice before they are required to report for active duty, officials said.
DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Master Sgt. Brad A. Clemmons, 37, of Chillicothe, Ohio, died Aug. 21 when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle. The vehicle was part of a transportation convoy enroute to Taji, Iraq. Clemmons was assigned to the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt 1st Class Ruben J. Villa Jr., of El Paso, Texas, died on Aug 18, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from a non-combat related cause.Villa was assigned to the Army's Area Support Group (CFLCC) , Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The incident is under investigation.
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chief Petty Officer Paul J. Darga, 34, of Lansing, Mich., died Aug. 22 when his Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team was struck by an improvised explosive device while responding to a previous strike. His unit was conducting combat operations against enemy forces in the Al Anbar province, Iraq. Darga was assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Two, serving with the 1st Marine Logistics Group.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Jeffrey S. Loa, 32, of Waianae, Hawaii, died on Aug 16 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. Loa was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Hospitalman Chadwick T. Kenyon, 20, of Tucson, Ariz., died Aug. 20 of injuries suffered when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in the Al Anbar province, Iraq. Kenyon was assigned to the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Jeffrey S. Loa, 32, of Waianae, Hawaii, died on Aug. 16 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, of injuries suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. Loa was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Gabriel G. DeRoo, 25, of Paw Paw, Mich., died on Aug. 20 in Mosul, Iraq, of injuries suffered when he encountered enemy forces using small arms fire during combat operations. DeRoo was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Gabriel G. DeRoo, 25, of Paw Paw, Mich., died on Aug. 20 in Mosul, Iraq, of injuries suffered when he encountered enemy forces using small arms fire during combat operations. DeRoo was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Cpl. Adam A. Galvez, 21, of Salt Lake City, Utah Lance Cpl. Randy L. Newman, 21, of Bend, Ore. Both Marines died Aug. 20 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq.They were assigned to 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties The Department of Defense announced today the death ofthree soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died in Kunar, Afghanistan, on Aug. 19 when an improvised explosive device detonated near their convoy vehicle. Killed were: Sgt. Wakkuna A. Jackson, 21, of Jacksonville, Fla.Jackson was assigned to the 710th Combat Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. Spc. Robert E. Drawl Jr., 21, of Alexandria, Va. Drawl was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. Spc. Christopher F. Sitton, 21, of Montrose, Colo. Sitton was assigned to the 710th Combat Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y
Four U.S. servicemembers have been killed in action in Iraq over the past two days, military officials reported.
A Multinational Division Baghdad servicemember died at about 1:30 p.m.
today when the vehicle he was riding in was struck by an improvised
explosive device north of Baghdad, military officials in Iraq reported.
The individual's service affiliation was not released.
Elsewhere, two Marines and a sailor assigned to Regimental Combat Team
7 died from wounds suffered due to enemy action in Iraq's Anbar
province yesterday.
The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of
next of kin.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pvt. Joseph R. Blake, 34, of Portland, Ore., died on Aug 17 in
Turkalay, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered when his platoon encountered enemy
forces small arms fire. Blake was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd
Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort
Drum, N.Y.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. James J. Arellano, 19, of Cheyenne, Wyo., died on Aug 17 in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries suffered when his patrol encountered enemy forces
using improvised explosive devices and small arms fire. Arellano was
assigned to the 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 4th
Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Senior Airman Adam P. Servais, 23, of Onalaska, Wis., died Aug. 19,
when his vehicle came under hostile fire in Uruzgan province.He was
assigned to the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
Three U.S. soldiers were killed in
Afghanistan's Kunar province, and a soldier assigned to 1st Brigade, 1st
Armored Division died from wounds suffered due to enemy action in Iraq's
Anbar province yesterday, military officials reported.
Also, a Multinational Division Baghdad soldier died Aug. 17 when he was
struck by a makeshift bomb while conducting a dismounted patrol south
of Baghdad, officials said.
The names of the soldiers are being withheld pending notification of
next of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department has released the identities of three
Marines and an airman who died recently supporting operations in Iraq
and Afghanistan:
Senior Airman Adam P. Servais, 23, of Onalaska, Wis., died
yesterday, when his vehicle came under hostile fire in Afghanistan's Uruzgan
province. He was assigned to the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron, Hurlburt
Field, Fla.
Marine Capt. John J. McKenna IV, 30, of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Marine
Lance Cpl. Michael D. Glover, 28, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died Aug. 16 while
conducting combat operations in Anbar province, Iraq. Both were
assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th
Marine Division, Albany, N.Y.
Marine Sgt. John P. Phillips, 29, of St. Stephen, S.C., died Aug.
16 at Brooke Army Medical Center, in San Antonio, from wounds suffered
in Anbar province March 7. He was assigned to 9th Engineer Support
Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force,
Okinawa, Japan.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine, who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. John P. Phillips, 29, of St. Stephen, S.C., died Aug. 16 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas, from wounds received while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq, on March 7. He was assigned to 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Capt. John J. McKenna IV, 30, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died Aug. 16 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Albany, N.Y.
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lance Cpl. Michael D. Glover, 28, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died Aug. 16 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Albany, N.Y.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
A soldier assigned to 1st Brigade, 1st
Armored Division, died from wounds suffered due to enemy action in Iraq's Anbar province yesterday, military officials reported.
The name of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next
of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department has released the identities of nine
soldiers who were killed recently supporting the global war on terror:
Army Spc. Rogelio R. Garza, Jr., 26, of Corpus Christi, Texas; Pfc.
Andrew R. Small, 19, of Wiscasset, Maine; and Pfc. James P. White Jr.,
19, of Huber Heights, Ohio, died in Nangalam, Afghanistan, Aug. 11,
when their platoon came in contact with enemy forces using
rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. The soldiers were assigned to 1st
Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain
Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.
Army 1st. Sgt. Aaron D. Jagger, 43, of Hillsdale, Mich.; Spc.
Ignacio Ramirez, 22, of Henderson, Nev.; Spc. Shane W. Woods, 23, of Palmer,
Alaska, died in Ramadi, Iraq, Aug 9, when an improvised explosive
device detonated near their Humvee. The soldiers were assigned to 1st
Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany.
Army Staff Sgt. Kenneth A. Jenkins, 25, of Fouke, Ark., died in
Balad, Iraq, of injuries suffered Aug. 12, when he came in contact with
enemy forces using small-arms fire in Baghdad. Jenkins was assigned to
the Army's 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team,
4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
Army Staff Sgt. Michael C. Lloyd, 24, of San Antonio, and Staff
Sgt. Kevin L. Zeigler, 31, of Overland Park, Kan., died Aug. 15 in Baghdad
of injuries suffered Aug. 12, when an IED detonated near their
dismounted patrol. Both soldiers were assigned to 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died in Nangalam, Afghanistan on Aug. 11, when their platoon came in contact with enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire during combat operations. The soldiers were assigned to the Army 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.
Killed were:
Spc. Rogelio R. Garza, Jr., 26, of Corpus Christi, Texas
Pfc. Andrew R. Small, 19, of Wiscasset, Maine
Pfc. James P. White, Jr., 19, of Huber Heights, Ohio
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers,
who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Ar Ramadi,
Iraq on Aug 9, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their
HMMWV during combat operations. The soldiers were assigned to the Army's
1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg,
Germany.
Killed were:
1st. Sgt. Aaron D. Jagger, 43, of Hillsdale, Mich.
Spc. Ignacio Ramirez, 22, of Henderson, Nev.
Spc. Shane W. Woods, 23, of Palmer, Alaska
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Kenneth A. Jenkins, 25, of Fouke, Ark., died in Balad, Iraq
of injuries sustained on Aug. 12, when he came in contact with enemy
forces using small arms fire during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq.
Jenkins was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment,
4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers,
who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Baghdad, Iraq
of injuries sustained on Aug. 12, when an improvised explosive device
detonated near their dismounted patrol during combat operations. Both
soldiers were assigned to the Army's 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
Killed were:
Staff Sgt. Michael C. Lloyd, 24, of San Antonio, Texas
Staff Sgt. Kevin L. Zeigler, 31, of Overland Park, Kan.
Missing World War II Airmen Identified The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) today announced three airmen missing in action from World War II have been identified
and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors. They are 2nd Lt. David J. Nelson, Chicago, Ill.; Tech. Sgt. Henry F. Kortebein, Maspeth, N.Y.; and Tech. Sgt. Blake A. Treece Jr., Marshall, Ark., all U.S. Army Air Forces.These men are to be buried along with group remains of their aircrew at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. on Thursday. Representatives from the Army met with the next-of-kin of these men in their hometowns on behalf of the Secretary of the Army to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors. On August 8, 1944, Nelson, Kortebein and Treece departed an allied air base in England in their B-17G Flying Fortress with six other crewmen aboard.Their mission was to bomb enemy targets near Caen, France.The aircraft was seen to explode and crash after being struck by enemy flak near the village of Lonlay l'Abbaye, south of Caen.The other six members of the crew were 1st Lt. Jack R. Thompson; 2nd Lts. Charles Bacigalupa and Charles Sherrill; and Sgts. Richard R. Collins, Gerald F. Gillies and Warren D. Godsey.The hometowns of these six are not available. German forces and French villagers living near the crash site recovered some of the remains of the crew and buried them nearby.Advancing U.S. forces found additional remains.Six of the nine crewmen ultimately were identified, but Nelson, Kortebein and Treece remained unaccounted for. In August 2002, a team from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) operating in Luxembourg was informed that a local French aircraft wreckage hunting group (Association Normande du Souvenir Aerien 39/45) had located a crash site near Lonlay l'Abbaye.The JPAC team surveyed the site, excavated it in July 2004 and recovered human remains, personal effects and crew-related materials from amid the wreckage.Also found were six unexploded 250-pound bombs. Later that year, a French explosive ordnance disposal team turned over a bone fragment to the U. S. Defense Attache in Paris.It was found by French technicians working to secure the site where the bombs had been found. Among other forensic identification tools, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA in the identification of the remains of the three, matching DNA sequences from maternal relatives.
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club pulled out all the stops yesterday as it saluted more than 1,000 sailors of the USS Ronald Reagan just returned from a deployment to the Persian Gulf.
The racetrack, 20 miles north of San Diego, celebrated USS Ronald Reagan Day to honor the sailors who returned home six weeks ago from the new carrier's first deployment. In addition to free admission, parking and food for crewmembers and their guests in a special VIP tent along the track, the track staff dedicated one of the day's races to them. The sailors gathered in the track's winner's circle just as the fourth race of the day was about to begin, and others lined up along the starting gates. As the announcer acknowledged the sailors' contribution to the global war on terror over the track's loudspeaker system, the crowd burst into applause and the sailors, all in their Navy white uniforms, exchanged ear-to-ear smiles. Then, after the traditional "Boots and Saddles" bugle call, followed by a rendition of "Anchors Aweigh," the race was on. The 4 horse, Warning Zone, edged out the other nine horses in the race, and the Reagan's captain, Capt. Terry Kraft, presented the winner's cup trophy to the horse's owners and shook hands with its jockey, Corey Nakatani. Nationally syndicated radio talk show host Michael Reagan, son of the former president for whom the carrier is named, joined the sailors in the winner's circle, shaking their hands and thanking them for their service. Regardless of activity on the track, and all betting aside, sailors from the USS Ronald Reagan agreed they were the day's big winners. "It's awesome," said Petty Officer 1st Class Lee Medvec, a storekeeper aboard the carrier who called the day's activities "a great experience for me." "It makes me feel great," said the 16-year sailor. "It makes me feel appreciated and that what I do has meaning." Petty Officer 2nd Class Janell Zamora, an aviation support and equipment technician, called yesterday's event the ultimate homecoming. "For us it's like a big welcome home," she said. "It's like a big hug." "This is really nice," agreed Petty Officer 1st Class Mark Davis, an aviation maintenance administrator, as he stretched out at one of the tables set up under the tent for the sailors. Davis' wife, Anissa, and two children, ages 4 and 7, joined him in the shade between races and snacked on food set out by the racetrack staff. Anissa said she's proud of the prestige that comes from her husband's assignment to the Navy's newest and largest aircraft carrier and feels proud to see him and his fellow crewmembers praised for what they do. "When I see 1,000 of them in white, being recognized, it's a real honor," she said. Chief Petty Officer Edward Carde, a maintenance chief aboard the Reagan, said the outpouring reflects strong public support for the men and women in uniform. "You can tell we're appreciated for the time we were out there and the work we're doing," he said. "You see it everywhere - ribbons and flags on cars, signs along the road. No matter how big or small, it's pretty nice. It means a lot." Terrorist-related incidents in the news only increase that support and appreciation, he said. "It reinforces why we're out there and why what we're doing is important," he said. Cmdr. Brent Scott, the command's chaplain, said USS Ronald Reagan Day sent a special meaning to the crew, especially the young 18- and 19-year-old sailors just returned from their very first deployment. "To come back and have a group like this honor them means so much," he said. "It's a way of saying 'Thank you' in a way that's tangible." C.P. (Mac) McBride, assistant director of media for Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, called yesterday's event the continuation of summer-long military tributes that have honored every branch of the service. A Vietnam veteran who served in the Marine Corps, McBride experienced firsthand what it felt like to return home from combat feeling unappreciated. "For that war, the military didn't get their strokes," he said. McBride said he's glad the American public has turned around and now shows its support for its men and women in uniform. "They recognize that these military guys go out and do a very dirty and tough job," he said. "They deserve our salute and encouragement. And this is just a say of saying 'Thank you for a job well done.'" For more information about how other Americans are showing support for military members and ways to participate, visit the Defense Department's "America Supports You" Web site.
CONTRACTS DEFENSE COMMISSARY AGENCY
Four Seasons Produce Incorp., 400 Wabash Road, P.O. Box 788, Ephrata, PA 17522-0788 was awarded an indefinite delivery, requirements type contract on Aug. 22, 2006 to provide fresh fruits and vegetables (FF&V) for resale at 41 commissary store locations throughout Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia and Wisconsin. The estimated award amount is $76,439,296. Contractor will deliver FF&V to the store locations as needed. The contract is for a 2-year base period beginning Sep. 22, 2006 through Aug. 31, 2008. Two 1-year option periods are available. If both option periods are exercised, the contract will be completed Aug. 31, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Ninty-one firms were solicited and twelve offers were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Commissary Agency, Resale Contracting Division, Resale Services Support Branch, 1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, Va., 23801-1800 (HDEC02-06-D-0013). Military Produce Group LLC, 1106 Ingleside Road, Norfolk, VA 23502 was awarded an indefinite delivery, requirements type contract on Aug. 22, 2006 to provide fresh fruits and vegetables (FF&V) for resale at 36 commissary store locations throughout Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee. The estimated award amount is $78,184,914. Contractor will deliver FF&V to the store locations as needed. The contract is for a 2-year base period beginning Sep. 22, 2006 through Aug. 31, 2008. Two 1-year option periods are available. If both option periods are exercised, the contract will be completed Aug. 31, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Ninty-one firms were solicited and eight offers were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Commissary Agency, Resale Contracting Division, Resale Services Support Branch, 1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, Va., 23801-1800 (HDEC02-06-D-0014). AIR FORCE Lockheed Martin Co., Ft. Worth, Texas., is being awarded a $6,324,425 firm fixed price contract modification. This contract provides for provisioned items order modification, which will procure the spare parts for the Greece Peace Xenia IV F-16C/D aircraft. At this time $6,324,425 has been obligated. This work will be complete June 2007. Headquarters 84th Combat Sustainment Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity. (FA8212-06-C-0012/PM0017)
Defense Department civilians and contractors who are deployed overseas will be included in military health protection measures for the first time as part of an upcoming new policy,
senior DoD officials said here today. The new policy, DoD Instruction 6490.03, titled, "Deployment Health," leverages technological advances like electronic medical recordkeeping in the quest to improve the quality of military healthcare, Dr. William J. Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, told Pentagon reporters during a telephonic news briefing. "No military in history has done more to reach out to its servicemembers with respect to their physical and mental health," Winkerwerder said. "We will keep working to improve our system," he said. "It's important that we do it right, because of the great people that we are serving." Use of pre- and post-deployment health assessments and the implementation of globally transmittable electronic health care records are making a major impact on preventing, identifying and treating health care problems for deployed servicemembers, Winkenwerder said. The new policy specifies mandatory post-deployment health reassessments across the services and updates health care policies for overseas deployments. It also improves the capability of computerized records to keep track of localized health trends among deployed servicemembers, defense civilians and contractors. "What is more robust today, and more granular and detailed and documented, is both the medical information, as well as the environmental and location information," Winkenwerder said. Because defense civilians and contractors are being sent overseas along with military members in support of the global war on terrorism, officials decided they should be part of the military's deployment health system, Winkenwerder said. National Guard and reserve members also are included in the new deployment health policy, said Ellen P. Embrey, deputy assistant secretary of defense for force health protection and readiness. The new policy seeks to obtain and document deployed reserve-component members' health care information while they're on active duty, Embrey said. After departing active-duty status, reserve-component members can work with the Department of Veterans Affairs to address post-deployment health care concerns, she said. The VA provides health care for veterans of combat operations for up to two years following their deployment, Embrey said. "That, in combination with a series of new programs offered to reserve-component members here in the department, provides a wide array of opportunities to seek care for their health issues, both physical and mental," she said.
Navy Commissions Attack Submarine Texas The Navy will commission the USS Texas,
second ship of the Virginia attack submarine class, Saturday, Sept. 9, 2006, during a 10 a.m. CDT ceremony at the Port of Galveston piers in Galveston, Texas. As the Navy's next-generation attack submarine, the Virginia-class submarine is the first class specifically designed to counter post-Cold War threats, providing the Navy with the capabilities required for safeguarding the nation's interests in the 21st century. Texas has improved stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that enable it to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements. With a modular design, Texas along with its other sister submarines of the Virginia-class, will be able to accommodate technology upgrades throughout its life. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Laura Bush, first lady of the United States, serves as the ship's sponsor. In the time-honored tradition of commissioning U.S. naval ships, she has been invited to give the order to "man our ship and bring her to life!" This is the fourth ship of the Navy to carry the name Texas since the original ship was commissioned in 1895. The second USS Texas was a battleship, which took part in both World Wars. The most recent ship named Texas was a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser, which was decommissioned in 1977. Texas can attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters and other sea forces. Texas also has superior anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare capabilities, is able to provide special forces delivery and support, and can conduct mine delivery and minefield mapping. With enhanced communications connectivity, Texas will also provide important joint task force support and full integration into strike and expeditionary group operations. Capt. John Litherland, a 1982 graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle, will become the first commanding officer of the ship, leading a crew of approximately 134 officers and enlisted sailors. Texas will be homeported in Groton, Conn., as a unit of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Texas is 377 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 34 feet, a navigational draft of 32 feet, displaces approximately 7,800 tons submerged, can dive to depths greater than 800 feet, and can sustain speeds of more than 25 knots when submerged. The ship is also designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship - reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time. The superior capabilities of Texas and other Virginia-class submarines will help ensure the Navy maintains undersea dominance well into the 21st century.
The Dallas/Fort Worth area will hold a Freedom Walk on Sept. 11 to remember the victims of the terrorist attacks on the United States five years ago and to honor the nation's veterans, past and present.
"We just really feel that on this five-year anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, it's extremely important that we honor in a very visible way the victims of 9/11 and our military and our police and firefighters," Romey Kilgore, the event's primary organizer, said. The Dallas area Freedom Walk will begin at 8 p.m. at the Plano Centre, in Plano, Texas. The walk will be about a mile long. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to take part in a 9/11 Remembrance Rally prior to the walk. Kilgore is the founder of the nonprofit organization "United We Serve," which is sponsoring the walk. United We Serve is dedicated to supporting deployed servicemembers and their families by providing practical help, such as free lawn care and sending care packages. "We support military families and those deployed," Kilgore said. "We adopt them throughout the entire term of their deployment." Kilgore's daughter and son-in-law serve in the U.S. Army. "I have had a heart and calling to support and serve them and their units for many years," she said. "However, after the events of Sept. 11, I was motivated to serve a greater need than just those of my children, and my personal calling became United We Serve." Numerous other Freedom Walks are planned around the country to remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11 and to honor America's past and present military veterans. The Defense Department's America Supports You program is sponsoring the main Freedom Walk in Washington, D.C., which takes place Sept. 10. The other Freedom Walks are independently organized. America Supports You is a nationwide program that helps showcase Americans' support for the men and women of the armed forces and their families. Since its launch in November 2004, the program has welcomed more than 225 grassroots organizations and more than 25 corporate team members. Kilgore's group, United We Serve, is a member of the America Supports You program. The first America Supports You Freedom Walk was held Sept. 11, 2005, in Washington. It brought together more than 15,000 walkers, including family members of the victims of Sept. 11, members of Congress, federal workers, corporate employees, civic organizations, and citizens from around the country, DoD officials said. Information for people interested in organizing Freedom Walk observances in their communities is available at the America Supports You Freedom Walk Web site. Those interested in walking in the Dallas Freedom Walk can pre-register on the United We Serve Web site. "It's time to remember and come together as a country," Kilgore said. "It's also important to also honor those who are still continuing to take care of us."
President Bush has authorized the Marine Corps to call up Marines from the service's Individual Ready Reserve,
which may mean a return to duty for some recently discharged veterans. "We are telling the American people that there is a chance that ... those individual ready reservists will be recalled," Marine Maj. Steven O'Connor, reserve liaison officer with Marine Corps Public Affairs, said. The Individual Ready Reserve includes 59,000 Marines who have completed their initial enlistment, but are still within their mandatory eight-year military service obligation. All enlistees in all services incur an eight-year commitment in some capacity, generally a combination of active or reserve and then IRR service. Marine officials couldn't say how many Marines from the IRR could be activated, or when that might happen. Bush authorized call-ups from this pool July 26. The authorization allows up to 2,500 Marines to be on involuntary active duty at any time. But the actual number will depend on how many Marines volunteer for deployments within the global war on terrorism. The service has set up a Web site, https://mcmps.manpower.usmc.mil/MCMPS/GIDA/, to allow IRR Marines and recent retirees to volunteer for war on terror assignments. Officials envision a much smaller number of involuntary activations than the maximum authorization. "There is that chance (of calling up the maximum authorized), even though it seems rather slight," O'Connor said. Involuntarily activated Marines will receive at least five months notice before they have to report for an average of 12 to 18 months of additional active duty, officials said. The service is specifically targeting Marines in the combat arms, communications, intelligence, engineer and military police career fields. In addition, the service is excluding Marines who are in their first year of IRR service. Officials are deliberately avoiding activating Marines who have recently been in a combat zone. Only Marines in their second or third year of IRR service are being involuntarily recalled, O'Connor said. Marines in the IRR are a proven asset as the military works to manage its resources during heightened demands posed by the war on terror, O'Connor said. "These are Marines that have already been trained," he said. Service officials said the authority does not signal a problem with recruiting. "It's just a matter of the Marine Corps accessing its total force," O'Connor said. He noted that about 2,600 Marine reservists are serving within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. "They're part of our total force," he added. "They're a resource we should be able to tap into in times of war and contingency." The Marine Corps drew on its Individual Ready Reserve in the early days of Operation Iraqi Freedom, involuntarily calling up roughly 2,000 Marines, and in the 1991 Gulf War, when about 8,300 IRR members were involuntarily activated, O'Connor said.
Amid national debate about whether or not
to stay the course in Iraq, President Bush today firmly placed himself
in the "stay" category.
It's imperative America continues to support the new Iraqi government
in its struggle against an insurgency that seeks to divide and topple
it, Bush told White House reporters here.
"A failed Iraq would make America less secure," Bush declared. The end
of democracy in Iraq, he said, would provide a haven for terrorists and
extremists in the heart of the Middle East.
Bush acknowledged that some Americans are saying it's time for U.S.
forces to leave Iraq. However, a premature troop withdrawal before the job
is completed would prove disastrous, he said.
"It would be a huge mistake for this country," Bush said. And, things
would only get worse in Iraq, he added, if U.S. troops depart before the
Iraqi government, its armed forces and police are firmly established.
Bush said Iraqi government leaders are "determined to thwart the
efforts of the extremists and the radicals and al Qaeda."
Additionally, "Iraqis want a unified country," Bush pointed out,
downplaying talk of civil war precipitated by sectarian strife.
The U.S. strategy includes assisting the Iraqis to establish democracy,
Bush said, and to help them defeat extremists in their country.
"We're not going to leave before the mission is complete," the
president said.
U.S. commanders have changed tactics, Bush said, since sectarian
violence erupted across Iraq after the bombing of a holy mosque in Samarra on
Feb. 22, noting more U.S. forces have flowed into Baghdad to confront
the escalating violence there.
Bush predicted the Iraqis would succeed in establishing a free society
and defeating the extremists.
"And, our job is to help them succeed," Bush concluded.
The United States will provide funding and
other assistance to support a U.N. plan to end warfare between
Lebanon-based Hezbollah guerrillas and Israel, President Bush said here today.
Recently passed U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 has authorized a
15,000-strong international force to deploy as a buffer between Israel
and Hezbollah. A brokered cease-fire has reduced fighting between the
two antagonists after they fought a month-long trans-border battle using
rockets, mortars and ground troops.
"America will do our part. We will assist the new international force
with logistical support, command and control, communications and
intelligence," Bush told White House reporters. "Lebanon, Israel and our
allies agree that this would be the most effective contribution we can make
at this time."
The deployment of the international peacekeepers, Bush said, will also
facilitate delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid to Lebanese and
Israeli civilians who'd been caught in the crossfire.
Bush said the United States already has distributed more than half of
its $50 million pledge of disaster relief for the Lebanese people who've
lost their homes during the conflict. And, 25,000 tons of U.S. wheat
will be delivered to Lebanon in coming weeks, the president added.
America will provide additional aid to support humanitarian and
reconstruction work in Lebanon, Bush said, for a total of more than $230
million. These funds, he said, will be used to rebuild Lebanese homes,
schools, roads and bridges.
The president said he's also proposing an additional $42 million to be
used to help equip and train the Lebanese armed forces.
Bush said he'd also work with the U.S. Congress to secure loan
guarantees to help rebuild Israel infrastructure that was destroyed or damaged
by Hezbollah rockets during the war.
America is helping the people of Lebanon because all people deserve to
live in a free, open society that respects the rights of all citizens,
Bush said. Hezbollah is a radical Islamic militia group that's backed
by Syria and Iran, who both are pledged to destroy Israel.
The conflict was touched off when Hezbollah operatives kidnapped an
Israeli soldier. Syria-backed Hezbollah claims to be Lebanon's the true
military organization. The Lebanese army is considered ineffective and
riddled with Hezbollah supporters.
"We reject the killing of innocents to achieve a radical and violent
agenda," Bush said.
Hezbollah's leaders and their sponsors, Syria and Iran, "are working to
thwart the efforts of Lebanese people," Bush said, "to break free from
foreign domination and build their own democratic future."
The terrorists would like Lebanon to become a satellite of Islamic
fascism and a base of operations from which to continue deadly attacks on
Israel.
However, "the Lebanese people have made it clear they want to live in
freedom, Bush said, "and now it's up to their friends and allies to help
them do so."
CONTRACTS
ARMY Document and Packaging Brokers Inc.*, Pelham, Ala., was awarded on Aug. 16, 2006, a delivery order amount of $34,000,000 as part of a $50,500,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the Army National Guard Recruiting Assistance Program. Work will be performed in Pelham, Ala., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 16, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were three bids solicited on March 25, 2005, and one bid was received. The National Guard Bureau, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (W9133L-05-D-0011). Lobar Inc., Dillsburg, Pa., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a $19,710,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a new battalion training complex facility. Work will be performed in Annville, Pa., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 17, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were eight bids solicited on June 5, 2006, and two bids were received. The U.S. Property and Fiscal Office, Annville, Pa., is the contracting activity (W912KC-06-C-0006). Fite Building Co., Inc.*, Decatur, Ala., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, an $18,104,508 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction for the systems software engineering annex, phase I. Work will be performed at Redstone Arsenal, Ala., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 15, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 31 bids solicited on March 7, 2006, and four bids were received. The Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-06-C-0051). General Dynamics Land Systems, Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a delivery order amount of $14,000,000 as part of a $14,000,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Long Lead Material to Reset M1A2 Abrams Tanks. Work will be performed in Aniston, Ala. (40 percent), Scranton, Pa. (30 percent), Lima, Ohio (20 percent), and Sterling Heights, Mich. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by June 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 21, 2006. The Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W65HZV-06-G-0006). Ascend Construction Management Inc.*, Eatontown, N.J., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a $10,388,918 firm-fixed-price contract for replacement of a fire/crash rescue station. Work will be performed in Newburgh, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 1, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were six bids solicited on March 10, 2006, and six bids were received. The U.S. Property and Fiscal Office, Latham, N.Y., is the contracting activity (W912PQ-06-C-0009). ECI Construction L.L.C., Dillsburg, Pa., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a $9,706,183 firm-fixed-price contract for Construction of a new combined Army collective training facility. Work will be performed in Annville, Pa., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 17, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 12 bids solicited on May 25, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Property and Fiscal Office, Annville, Pa., is the contracting activity (W912KC-06-C-0007). Laughlin, Marinaccio & Owens of Arlington, Va., was awarded Aug. 21 a delivery order amounting to $7,798,350 as part of an estimated $173,020,929 firm-fixed price contract with indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity with cost to develop a national paid-media plan for the Army National Guard's Spring 2007 media efforts addressing non-prior military service aspiring recruits. These include high school and college prospects, and those from the non-graduate work force. The campaign also will address prospects with prior military service, those separating from active-duty military service and current Guard members. Work will be performed by the firm in Arlington, Va., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 20, 2007. The National Guard Bureau of Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity. Army Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 692-2000. (DAHA90-02-D-003) Better Built Construction Services Inc./Jack Gibson Construction Co., (Joint Venture), Trenton, Ohio, was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a $7,473,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a joint services lodging facility. Work will be performed in Youngstown, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 27 bids solicited on June 9, 2006, and three bids were received. The Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-06-C-0038). Technical & Management Services Corp.*, Beltsville, Md., was awarded on Aug. 17, 2006, a $7,016,775 increment as part of a $26,891,322 time and materials contract for construction of the Iraqi Law Enforcement Technical Center continuation effort. Work will be performed in Baghdad, Iraq, and is expected to be completed by July 24, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 24, 2006. The Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-05-C-0139). NAVY Fargo Pacific, Inc.*, Hagatna, Guam; Tumon Corp.*, Tamuning, Guam; Sun Woo Corp., dba Core Tech International*, Tamuning, Guam; Reliable Builders, Inc.*, Tamuning, Guam; and AIC International, Inc.*, Hagatna, Guam, are being awarded a maximum amount of $25,000,000, guaranteed minimum of $25,000 (base period), indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, design-build multiple award construction contract for new construction, renovation/modernization and routine/maintenance of Government shore-based facilities in the territory of Guam. The total contract amount is not to exceed $100,000,000 (base period and three one-year options). Fargo Pacific, Inc., is being awarded the first task order at $433,000 for repair and renovation of Building 121, Fire Station at the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station, Finegayan, Guam. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by January 2007. The remaining four contractors are being awarded the minimum guarantee of $25,000. Work will be performed throughout the Territory of Guam, and is expected to be completed by August 2007 (August 2010 with options). Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured as a HUBZone set-aside via the Naval Facilities Engineering Command e-solicitation website with six proposals received. These five contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas, Guam, is the contracting activity (N40192-06-D-2550/2551/2552/2553/2554). Chesapeake Contractors, JV LLC*, Williamsburg, Va.; York River Electric*, Yorktown, Va.; Bay Electric Corp.*, Newport News, Va.; THR Enterprises, Inc.*, Norfolk, Va.; and Arriba Corp.*, Norfolk, Va., are being awarded a maximum amount of $8,000,000, guaranteed minimum of $5,000 (base period), an 8(a) design/build multiple award construction contract for construction, renovation, alteration, design, and repairs of Government facilities in the Hampton Roads Area of Va. and N.C. The not to exceed amount for each contract is $40,000,000, bringing the total potential for all contracts to $200,000,000. Work will be performed in the Hampton Roads area of Va. (85%) including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Yorktown, Suffolk, Williamsburg, and N.C. (15%) including Jacksonville and Cherry Point, and work is expected to be completed August 2007 (August 2011 with options). Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with 90 proposals solicited and 12 offers received. These five contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-06-D-6005/6006/6007/6008/6009). Solpac, Inc., dba Soltek Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded $18,565,000 for firm-fixed price Task Order 0003 under an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract (N68711-03-D-7059) for the design and construction of a combined arms military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) facility at the Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms. The project includes single and multi-story (3-5 story) reinforced concrete buildings with seismic upgrades, reinforced concrete foundations, and concrete slab on grade. Construction includes a variety of building types and interior plan configurations consisting of partitions constructed with exterior grade plywood over. Buildings will be designed for military combat training, are not intended for daily habitation. Work will be performed in Twentynine Palms, Calif., and is expected to be completed by December 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with 16 proposals received and award made on Sept. 30, 2003. The total contract amount is not to exceed $100,000,000 or 60 months (base period and four option years), whichever comes first. The multiple contractors (five in number) may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the existing contract. Two offers were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity. STIDD Systems, Greenport, N.Y., is being awarded a $5,111,160 modification to previously awarded contract (M67854-05-F-1039) for 60 Diver Propulsion Devices (DPD), DPD battery chargers, shipping containers, and the extended range option. Work will be performed in Greenport, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by November 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico Va., is the contracting activity. AIR FORCE McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $23,289,862 firm-fixed price requirements contract. This contract is for remanufacture of KC-135 flight control surfaces. At this time, no funds have been obligated. This work will be complete 6 months beyond the expiration of ordering period. The length of the contract is three years. Headquarters Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is the contracting activity (FA8103-06-C-0070). DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Palmdale, Calif., is being awarded a $14,620,922 modification exercising options to a previously awarded other transaction for prototypes agreement to continue development and demonstration of the hypersonic technology vehicle portion of the Falcon program. Work will be performed in Palmdale, Calif., and will be completed in September 2008. This Agreement is incrementally funded; no funds are being obligated at this time. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is the contracting activity (HR0011-04-9-0010/P00021). DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Sysco Food Services of Seattle, Kent, Wash., is being awarded a maximum 5,800,000 firm fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for full line food distribution for Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska. This is an indefinite quantity type contract exercising option year one of a 5-year contract with 4 one-year option periods. . Using services are Army, Air Force, and Job Corps. Proposals were Web-solicited and 3 responded. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is August 26, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM30006D3160). * Small Business
Hollywood's depiction of the U.S. military
is often laughably inaccurate to many Americans who wear their
country's uniform. This is not for lack of effort on the part of the military
services and the Defense Department.
To achieve maximum accuracy in movies and on television, the Army,
Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and DoD have liaison offices to help
guide filmmakers through the process. The services operate
independently of each other in this endeavor but share office space on the same
floor of a Los Angeles building. The Defense Department's entertainment
media division is run from the Pentagon.
"If we decide to cooperate on a project, we stay with them throughout
all the scenes that have military or DoD depictions," said Army Lt. Col
Paul Sinor, a public affairs officer with that service's Office of the
Chief of Public Affairs.
This task covers a broad spectrum, from making sure uniforms and
equipment are correct to coordinating filming on military bases, said Air
Force Capt. Christian Hodge, a project officer with the Air Force
Entertainment Liaison Office.
Both Sinor and Hodge are currently working on the movie "Transformers,"
directed by Michael Bay, who previously worked with the military on
such films as "Pearl Harbor" and "Armageddon."
"Transformers" is based on the 1980s animated television series of the
same name. The story focuses on dueling robot races from outer space
who bring their battle to Earth. Part of the movie is being shot in the
Los Angeles aircraft hangar where Howard Hughes built his legendary H-4
Hercules, better known as the "Spruce Goose."
Military involvement with a film project normally begins with script
review. All projects must ultimately get DoD approval to move forward.
"The first thing we look at in the screenplay is the portrayal of the
military to make sure it's realistic, obviously within the parameters of
the script," Sinor said. "'Transformers' is science fiction. The Army
has never fought giant robots, but if we did, this is probably how we'd
do it."
After reviewing the script, military liaison officers meet with
producers or writers to make suggestions about how to ensure the military
portrayal is as accurate as possible. "Sometimes the writer or producer
really want those suggestions, other times there are creative differences
and they want to keep it the way it was originally written," Hodge
said.
Sometimes filmmakers will get permission to film military ships and
aircraft as they perform their regular missions. "But more often, the
director wants specific shots, so then we go through the process of billing
the production company," he said.
For example, aircraft are billed at an hourly rate, and each comes with
a different price tag. "We've got F-22s that run about $25,000 an hour
to T-38s that are about $3,500," Hodge said.
Hodge said spending in Hollywood reminds him of a quote from former pro
basketball star Patrick Ewing. "He was answering a question about how
much money players make, and he said, 'We make lots of money, but we
spend lots of money too.'"
Sinor stressed that no expense is ever incurred by the government or
taxpayers. Servicemembers who serve as extras are on leave and are paid
by the production company, as are crews who fly the aircraft. He also
said military participation in films takes a back seat to mission
responsibilities. A National Guard unit that was supposed to participate in
the filming of "Transformers" pulled out at the last minute because of a
mission requirement, he said.
Sinor has been at his current job for about a year, but has worked in
the movie business for more than a decade. He retired from the Army in
1991, but was recalled to active duty in 2004. While in retirement, he
worked as a screenwriter and taught the craft at the University of West
Florida. He has had several scripts adapted to the screen, including
"Dead Men Can't Dance," about a covert military operation to destroy a
North Korean nuclear facility.
Another aspect of Sinor's job is ensuring that actors look and act like
the real deal. He took a group of actors from "Transformers" to Fort
Irwin, in the California desert, to get up to speed on how to properly
handle a weapon, move across open areas, and clear buildings. "The kinds
of things the script called for," he said.
Actor Josh Duhamel, who plays an Army captain in the film, said this
was a valuable part of the preparation process. "We wanted to look as
realistic as possible and do the military proud. That was our main focus,"
he said. "I have a lot of respect for the people in the military."
Ian Bryce, one of the producers of "Transformers," said DoD and the
services have been good at providing what the filmmakers need to make the
movie work.
"Without the superb military support we've gotten on this film, it
would be an entirely different-looking film," Bryce said. "Once you get
Pentagon approval, you've created a win-win situation. We want to
cooperate with the Pentagon to show them off in the most positive light, and
the Pentagon likewise wants to give us the resources to be able to do
that."
Hodge agreed and said it's been great working with both director Bay
and producer Bryce. "They've been very receptive to a lot of our
suggestions," he said. "They took into consideration several of our suggestions
and added some lines to the script to make it more accurate. That's
pretty cool."
"Transformers" stars Jon Voight and John Turturro. It is scheduled to
be released by Paramount Pictures in summer 2007.
CONTRACTS
DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY (DISA)
AT&T Government Solutions, Inc., Honolulu, Hawaii is being awarded
a firm-fixed price, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract
with a base period of six years with up to four one-year options and the
maximum ceiling amount of $250,000,000. This contract will provide the
primary inter- and intra-base telecommunications services for the
Department of Defense (DoD) in the State of Hawaii, providing end-to-end
common user switched and dedicated transmission services. Other authorized
users may include federal, state, and local agencies. The requirement
was solicited and awarded on a full and open competition basis. The
solicitation was announced via the Federal Business Opportunities
(FEDBIZOPPS) website and two proposals were received. The contractor is a U.S.
large business. The Defense Information Technology Contracting
Organization - Pacific (DITCO-Pacific) is the contracting activity
(HC1019-06-D-2002).
ARMY
AICI/Syska/Archirodon L.L.C., Arlington, Va., was awarded on Aug. 18,
2006, a delivery order amount of $69,728,000 as part of a $92,348,000
firm-fixed-price contract for Construction of the King Abdullah II
Special Operations Training Center. Work will be performed in Amman, Jordan,
and is expected to be completed by Sept. 4, 2008. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were nine bids
solicited on May 30, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Winchester, Va., is the contracting activity
(W912ER-04-D-0001).
DRS Test and Energy Management Inc., Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on
Aug. 18, 2006, a delivery order amount of $6,850,000 as part of a
$10,050,000 firm-fixed-price contract for condition-based maintenance plus
software and hardware development for the Bradley A3, Abrams, Paladin,
and Potentially M113 Vehicles. Work will be performed in Huntsville,
Ala., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, 2007. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole
source contract initiated on Aug. 1, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive
and Armaments Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity
(DAAE20-03-G-0001).
Forrester Construction Co., Rockville, Md., was awarded on Aug. 18,
2006, a $6,249,664 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a
Columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery. Work will be performed in
Arlington, Va., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 1, 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an
unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on June 5,
2006, and seven bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Baltimore, Md., is the contracting activity (W912DR-06-C-0034).
NAVY
ATK Missile Systems Co., Integrated Systems Division, Clearwater,
Fla., is being awarded a $21,153,751 firm-fixed-priced contract for the
procurement of AAR-47(V)2 Missile Approach Warning Set hardware weapons
replacement assemblies. This contract consists of 1,196 optical sensor
converters with laser warning capabilities; 203 control indicators; and
322 computer processor upgrade kits. Work will be performed in
Clearwater, Fla. (48 percent); Austin, Texas (38 percent); Hamamatsu, Japan (9
percent); and Natanya, Israel (6 percent), and is expected to be
completed in September 2008. Contract funds in the amount of $905,338 will
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines
purchases for the United States ($20,478,627; 96.8 %) and the governments of
Norway ($360,730; 1.7 percent) and the United Kingdom ($314,394; 1.5
percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. This contract was not
competitively procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent
River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-06-C-0107).
L-3 Communications Titan Corporation Unidyne Division, Norfolk, Va.,
is being awarded a $16,731,438 firm-fixed-price contract for the Service
Life Extension Program (SLEP) of the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC)
29 and 32. LCAC SLEP extends the service life of the LCAC from 20 to 30
years. LCAC SLEP modifications include repair/refurbishment of the
hull, main engine upgrades, installation of a new skirt system, and
upgrades to the communication/navigation systems. The LCAC provides heavy lift
capability to perform amphibious assaults and operational maneuvers
from the sea. LCAC is a high-speed, fully amphibious landing craft capable
of carrying a 60-ton payload (75 tons in overload) at speeds in excess
of 40 knots and a nominal range of 200 nautical miles. Carrying
equipment, troops, and supplies, the LCAC launches from the well deck of an
amphibious warship, transits at high speed, traverses the surf zone and
lands at a suitable place ashore where it quickly offloads and
returns to amphibious shipping for follow-on sorties. This contract
includes options for SLEP of the LCAC 31, 48, and 33, which if exercised,
would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $40,033,424. Work
will be performed at Assault Craft Unit Five, Camp Pendleton, Calif.,
and is expected to be completed by August 2008. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was
competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website with 29
proposals solicited and two offers received. The Southwest Regional
Maintenance Center, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity
(N55236-06-C-0001).
BME & Sons, Inc.*, Barrigada, Guam, is being awarded a not to
exceed $14,211,970 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity painting
contract for interior and exterior painting of various facilities in the
Territory of Guam. The work to be performed provides for all labor, safety
controls, transportation, materials, equipment, and supervision
necessary to perform interior and exterior painting, surface preparation on
previously painted and unpainted buildings, application of new paint,
taping and spackling work, replacement of caulking and puttying, repair of
flashing/sheet-metal, repair of concrete cracks and spalls,
cutting/trimming of trees and shrubs (obstructing performance of work), painting
of pavement markings, and incidental related work at various military
facilities. Work will be performed throughout the Territory of Guam, and
work is expected to be completed by August 2007(August 2011 with
options). Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. This contract was competitively procured as a HUBZone set-aside
via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with six offers received. The
Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas, Guam, is the contracting
activity (N40192-06-D-2582).
AIR FORCE
Call Henry Inc., Titusville, Fla., is being awarded a $8,635,402
cost-plus-award fee, cost-plus-fixed fee and cost-reimbursable no fee
contract modification. This contract is for centralized management,
operation, maintenance, repair, upgrade, and launch support for critical range
and launch facilities and infrastructure supporting range transmitting,
and receiving sites, launch pads, spacecraft clean rooms, processing
facilities, and Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE). The major elements
include cranes, hoists, mechanical systems, pressure vessels, towers, and
elevators; operation of Vandenberg power plants and power generators;
and on-site support for launch activities such as operation and
monitoring the South Vandenberg Poser Plant during launch activities. At this
time, no funds have been obligated. This work will be complete September
2007. 30th Space Wing, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., is the
contracting activity (F04610-04-C-0004/P00019).
DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY
The MER-DuPont Titanium Consortium, Tucson, Ariz., was awarded on
August 17, 2006, a $3,800,000 increment of a $5,700,000 technology
investment agreement to design, build and demonstrate an electrolyzer to
produce low-cost titanium from titanium oxide. Work will be performed in
Tucson, Ariz. (88 percent) and Wilmington, Del. (12 percent) and will be
completed in August 2008. Funds will not expire at the end of this fiscal
year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on
February 8, 2005, and over 100 proposals were received. The Defense
Advanced Research Projects Agency is the contracting activity
(HR0011-06-3-0007).
* Small Business
The Army has authorized award of the Bronze Star Medal for Service to the living Canadian veterans of the 1st Specialervices Force for their service to the U.S. Army during World War
II.
The unit was known as "the Devil's Brigade" during the war and was one
of the first U.S. special operations forces units in the war. The unit
included U.S. Army soldiers and soldiers of the 2nd Canadian Parachute
Battalion and 2nd Canadian Special Service Battalion of the Special
Operations Group.
From 1942 to 1944, about 2,500 soldiers served in the unit under U.S.
Army command. Members from both nations were assigned interchangeably to
the squad level and below. The Canadians wore U.S. Army uniforms and
carried American weapons. The unit deployed to the Aleutian Islands in
1943 and then moved to Italy. The force participated in actions at the
Anzio beachhead, the liberation of Rome and into southern France. The
unit took so many casualties that officials disbanded it in January 1945.
The unit earned the name the Devil's Brigade during the Italian
Campaign from words found written in the diary of a dead German officer: "The
black devils are all around us every time we come into line and we
never hear them."
The award of the Bronze Star Medal for Service is a conversion award of
the Combat Infantryman Badge authorized for almost 1,200 Canadian
veterans in 2005. Under Army policies, only Combat Infantryman Badges and
Combat Medic Badges awarded during World War II may be converted to the
Bronze Star Medal for Service. "This is an added award to these Canadian
veterans," said Shari Lawrence, a spokeswoman for the Army's Human
Resources Command.
Although approved for the unit as a whole, the almost 120 eligible
veterans must submit verification documents showing their complete name,
rank, service number and dates of service when they apply for the medal.
Force veterans are meeting in Helena, Mont., this week for their last
reunion. "It's only fitting we make this announcement this week,"
Lawrence said. The unit trained in at Helena's Fort William Henry Harrison
before leaving for war.
Eligible veterans may send their request and copies of their
verification documents to: U.S. Army Human Resources Command; 200 Stovall Street,
ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA; Alexandria, VA 22332-4000.
CONTRACTS DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Science Applications International Corp., Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $250,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for maintenance repair and operations supplies contract for the Northwest Region. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity type contract exercising option year one. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Web-solicited and six responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 17, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP15). Graybar Electric Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $250,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for maintenance repair and operations supplies contract for the Alaska Region. This is an indefinite delivery/quantity type contract exercising option year one. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Federal civilian agencies. Proposals were Web-solicited and six responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 17, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-04-D-BP14). IMO Industries, Monroe, N.C., is being awarded a maximum $48,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for pump and pump related items. Using services are Navy and Marine Corps. This is an indefinite quantity contract with a 2-year base and 8 option years. This is a sole source competition with one solicited and one responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Aug. 17, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), Columbus, Ohio (SP0760-06-D-9733). U.S. Food Service/Joseph Webb, Vista, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $34,585,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for prime vendor full line food distribution for Los Angeles, San Diego, MWTC Bridgeport, Calif.; and Yuma, Ariz., prime vendor zones. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Job Corps, and Coast Guard. Proposals were Web-solicited and 3 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is August 21, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-06-D-3206). ARMY GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 16, 2006, a $38,403,684 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for additional contractor logistics support for the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. Work will be performed in Ontario, Canada (61.9 percent), Iraq (23.4 percent), Fort Lewis, Wash. (5.7 percent), Fort Wainwright, Alaska (4.7 percent), Sterling Heights, Mich. (2.2 percent), Kuwait (1.6 percent), and Vilseck, Germany (0.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Dec. 15, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 28, 2006. The Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-02-C-B001). AIR FORCE Dayton Power and Light, Dayton, Ohio, is being awarded a $20,000,000 firm-fixed price contract. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base requires electricity distribution to accommodate an estimated annual volume of 415,000,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh). Dayton Power and Light Co. will be responsible for providing and coordinating all services required to deliver non-interruptible electrical distribution from the designated point of deliver to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The resulting contract will be a tariff rate per kilowatt. At this time, no funds have been obligated. Headquarters 88th Air Base Wing, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (GS00P06BSD0467). EDO Technical Services Operations, Lancaster, Calif., is being awarded a $18,744,201 firm-fixed price contract. This action provides for the purchase of 267 PLM-4 Radar Signal Simulators used to generate pulse and scan modulated Radio Frequency signals on approximately 25 aircraft platforms. At this time, total funds have been obligated. Solicitations began June 2006 and negotiations were complete July 2006. This work will complete July 2007. Headquarters Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8523-06-C-0035). NAVY Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $12,239,787 cost-plus-fixed-fee order under previously awarded contract (N00024-04-C-2100) for purchase of Virginia Class long lead-time material to support construction of spares for Ships Service Turbine Generator and Main Propulsion Units. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., and is expected to be completed by May 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Groton, Conn., is the contracting activity. Raytheon Systems, Network Centric Systems, North, St. Petersburg, Fla., is being awarded a $6,522,157 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification under previously awarded contract (N00024-06-C-5101) to exercise an option for Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) design agent support. CEC is a sensor-netting system that significantly improves battle force anti-air warfare capability by extracting and distributing sensor-derived information such that the superset of this data is available to all participating CEC units. CEC fuses the distributed data into a fire control quality, single, air track picture that significantly improves own-unit track precision, consistency and continuity; expands detection ranges; and increases reaction time. Work will be performed in St. Petersburg, Fla., and is expected to be completed March 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
U.S. Food Service/Joseph Webb, Vista, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $34,585,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for prime vendor full line food distribution for Los Angeles, San Diego, MWTC Bridgeport, Calif.; and Yuma, Ariz., prime vendor zones. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Job Corps, and Coast Guard. Proposals were Web-solicited and 3 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is August 21, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-06-D-3206). ARMY GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded on Aug. 16, 2006, a $38,403,684 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for additional contractor logistics support for the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. Work will be performed in Ontario, Canada (61.9 percent), Iraq (23.4 percent), Fort Lewis, Wash. (5.7 percent), Fort Wainwright, Alaska (4.7 percent), Sterling Heights, Mich. (2.2 percent), Kuwait (1.6 percent), and Vilseck, Germany (0.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Dec. 15, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on July 28, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-02-C-B001). AIR FORCE Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Norwalk, Conn., is being awarded a $10,800,000 firm-fixed price contract. This requirements type contract is for interim contractor support for the AN/APN 241 low power color radar, applicable to the C-130 aircraft. The contract will entail a basic 12-month period of performance with a one-year option period. The requirement consists of various contract line items for repair and retest with best estimated quantities and also include other line items such as contract acquired material, technical field services and travel. At this time, total funds have been obligated. Headquarters Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity. (FA8504-06-D-0002) McCrone Associates Inc., Westmont, Ill., is being awarded a $6,118,264 cost-plus-fixed fee contract modification. This action provides particle analysis services, non-personal services for the processing and analyzing of particle samples, for the purpose of nuclear test ban treaty verification. At this time, total funds have been obligated. This work will complete September 2007. 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA2521-05-C-8007/P00014) BOC Group Inc. Murray Hill, N.J., is being awarded a $5,010,554 firm-fixed-price contract modification. This action provides for gas analysis services, non-personal services for the processing, separation and radioassay of atmospheric gas samples for elemental determination of sample components for the purpose of nuclear test ban treaty verification. This action is the exercise of the second contract option period. At this time, total funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by September 2007. 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA2521-06-C-8004/P00005) NAVY Bath Iron Works Corp., (subsidiary of General Dynamics), Bath, Maine, was awarded a $10,232,700 modification under previously awarded contract (N00024-02-C-2303) for structural assemblies for the DDG 51 Class ship building program. DDG 51 Class structural assemblies constitute the forward deckhouse of the ship. This procurement will assist in the recovery from fire sustained during construction aboard DDG 103 (USS Truxtun). Work will be performed in Bath, Maine, and is expected to be completed by October 2006. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, Bath, Maine, is the contracting activity. Shock Tube Systems, Inc., Sterling, Conn., is being awarded a maximum $9,646,640 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for a minimum 10,824/maximum 136,986 MK64 Mod 0 Remote Firing Devices and associated data. The MK64 Mod 0 remote firing device is designed to provide the explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) operator a safe standoff distance from the MK33 tool and target. Work will be performed in Sterling, Conn., and is expected to be completed by August 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with the solicitation being publicized on the World-Wide Web, with two offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-06-D-4247).
The Department of Justice has launched a
Web site to protect servicemembers' rights, Attorney General Alberto R.
Gonzalez said yesterday.
Gonzales, speaking to the Disabled American Veterans annual convention
in Chicago, said the Justice Department has made it a priority to
enforce civil rights laws for American servicemembers.
"The law recognizes that although we can never thank you enough for
your service, we can take away some of the worries that soldiers might
face when they are deployed," he said in prepared remarks.
The government promises that servicemembers' jobs will still be theirs
when they come home and that they cannot be discriminated against by
their employers because of their military service. The U.S. vows that
servicemembers will be able to vote and that their vote will be counted.
And it promises that servicemembers "will have procedural protections in
civil actions, like lawsuits or property re-possessions, when serving
overseas."
The Justice Department Web site, www.servicemembers.gov, outlines the
rights servicemembers have under the Uniformed Services Employment and
Reemployment Rights Act, the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee
Voting Act and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.
"These basic civil rights are enforced by the Department of Justice,
and I can assure you that the department's staff and prosecutors are
deeply committed to these enforcement efforts," Gonzales said. "We feel
that it is an honor to serve those in uniform in this way. It is our way
of saying thank you for your service."
The attorney general said these are not just "pie in the sky" rights,
but issues that directly affect people.
In one case, Justice Department officials filed its first complaint
alleging that American Airlines violated rights of employees who also
serve as military pilots. The case was brought on behalf of three military
pilots employed by American Airlines. It states that the airline
reduced the employment benefits of pilots who had taken military leave, while
not reducing the same benefits for pilots who had taken similar,
non-military leave, Gonzales said.
"In another vivid example of the people for whom we enforce these laws,
the department recently won a consent decree from an employer who
terminated employment of a serviceman named Richard White the very same day
that Richard told his boss he was being called to active duty," the
attorney general said. "The consent decree requires the employer to pay
back wages to Mr. White.
"What leads an employer to treat a soldier like an inconvenience is
something for a higher power to judge. But here on earth, we have USERRA,
and we'll use it for Richard White and for soldiers like him, as often
as is necessary."
Voting is another servicemember right the Justice Department guards.
"Earlier this year, ... (the department) addressed long-standing
structural issues affecting uniformed military personnel posted both in this
country and overseas who wished to vote in North Carolina, South Carolina
and Alabama," Gonzales said.
These states had run-off elections too close to the primary elections
to allow these voters to receive and return ballots. With cooperation
from state election officials, the department was able to redress each of
these violations. "As the 2006 general election approaches, we will
continue vigilant protection of the voting rights of servicemembers, their
families and other overseas citizens," he said.
Gonzales also addressed the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. "Thanks to
this law, men and women currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan have
procedural protections in place that will allow them to be less
distracted by litigation back home -- by someone trying to repossess a leased
car, evict their spouse and children, sell their house at an auction or
run up penalties on credit cards with 21 percent interest rates," he
said. "It's hard to respond to a civil lawsuit while you're focused on
improvised explosive devices, and the law protects servicemembers for
that reason."
Enforcement of this law is a readiness and morale issue, he said. "Men
and women in uniform, like all Americans, have to honor their
obligations," he said. "However, Congress long ago decided, wisely I think, to
provide protections to them against lawsuits while deployed overseas on
active duty."
Gonzales urged any servicemember with questions to go to the Justice
Department Web site. Military lawyers can help servicemembers and their
families navigate through the laws.
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Aerospace Testing Alliance, Tullahoma, Tenn., is being awarded a
$212,116,057 cost-plus-award fee contract modification. This action is a
modification to the contract for the operation, maintenance, information
management, and support of Arnold Engineering Development Center for FY
06. This increase results from changes to the workload in the test
facilities and increased maintenance, investment, and mission support
requirements. This work will be completed by September 2007. Headquarters
Arnold Engineering Development Center, Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., is
the contracting activity. (F40600-03-C-0001/P00090)
Civil Air Patrol Inc., Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., is being awarded
a $6,870,000 cooperative agreement contract modification. This
modification will increase funding for FY 2006 Civil Air Patrol operation and
maintenance for the purchase of land mobile radio requirements as
authorized by the FY 2006 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, Section
8025. At this time, total funds have been obligated. This work will be
completed by September 2006. 42d Air Base Wing, Maxwell Air Force Base,
Ala., is the contracting activity. (F41689-00-2-0001/A00094)
NAVY
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Co., Simsbury, Conn., is being
awarded a maximum $5,576,125 firm-fixed-price,
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for a minimum 6,504 (each), maximum 200,000
(each) MK161 Mod 0 non-electric detonators and associated data. The MK161
Mod 0 non-electric detonator is a time device used to initiate
demolition charges and/or other explosive charges from a safe distance. Work
will be performed in Simsbury, Conn., and is expected to be completed by
August 2011. Contract funds will not expire this fiscal year. This
contract was competitively procured and advertised via the World Wide Web
with two offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane
Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity. (N00164-06-D-4252)
Harris Corp., Rochester, N.Y. is being awarded a not-to-exceed
$5,450,700 fixed-price delivery order under a basic ordering agreement (BOA)
for one AN/URC-131H (V) high frequency radio group and the associated
installation kit. Work will be performed in Rochester, N.Y., and is
expected to be completed by July 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively
procured because it was issued under the existing BOA. One proposal was
received and this requirement was synopsized as part of the BOA via
federal business opportunities and the SPAWAR e-commerce central website on
January 4, 2006. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems San Diego, Calif.
is the contracting activity (N00039-06-G-0008).
Some 550 active-duty soldiers from Fort
Lewis, Wash., will be conducting a different kind of firefight in the days
ahead: helping control wildfires that have burned more than 83,000
acres in Washington's Okanogan and Wenatchee national forests.
Task Force Blaze, made up of many Fort Lewis units, boarded buses today
after Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld gave the green light to the
mission, which is expected to last about two months, according to Army
Maj. Cathy Wilkinson, a 1st Corps plans and operations officer.
The National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, requested the
deployment last week due to a critical shortage of civilian firefighting
crews and unfavorable weather forecasts. The task force, commanded by
Army Lt. Col. Ricardo Love, includes 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry
Regiment; 23rd Chemical Battalion; 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery
Regiment; 4th Battalion, 6th Aviation Regiment; 29th Signal Battalion;
and the 28th Public Affairs Detachment.
NIFC teams arrived at Fort Lewis over the weekend to brief leaders
about the mission and conducted classroom training for the troops involved,
Wilkinson said. The NIFC teams distributed personal protective
equipment, including goggles, gloves, fireproof clothing and emergency
shelters, then explained fire behavior and how crews operate at a fire site,
Wilkinson said.
This morning, the soldiers began a five- to six-hour bus ride to the
Tripod Complex fire near Winthrop, Wash. There, they will receive
additional on-site training to reinforce what they learned in the classroom
and are expected to begin firefighting duties by the week's end,
Wilkinson said.
Meanwhile, four Air National Guard C-130 aircraft and supporting crews
are deployed to the mission. Two of the aircraft, from the Wyoming Air
National Guard's 153rd Air Wing, are flying out of Klamath Falls, Ore.
Two California Air National Guard C-130s from the 146th Air Wing, in
Channel Island, Calif., are deployed to Boise.
Both groups use the U.S. Forest Service's Modular Airborne Fire
Fighting Systems. The MAFFS is a modular unit designed to be inserted into a
C-130 aircraft. Each MAFFS unit is capable of carrying about 3,000
gallons of fire retardant. When discharged from about 200 feet above the
tree line, the system can cover an area about 60 feet wide and a quarter
mile long in about 10 seconds.
Additional National Guard troops are conducting wildfire control
missions against a variety of wildfires dotting the western United States,
Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said.
In Oregon, 54 Army National Guard members are deployed, along with a
CH-47 Chinook helicopter, two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters with
750-gallon buckets, a UH-60 with a 1,000-gallon bucket, and various vehicles,
Krenke reported.
The Montana Army National Guard has called 25 Guardsmen to state active
duty to assist local firefighting efforts in Helena, Lewis and Clark,
and Missoula, Mont. They have committed two UH-60 Black Hawks and
various fuelers and other vehicles to the mission.
In Texas, 10 Air National Guard and 10 Army National Guard members are
on duty to support the Texas Forest Service or other state agencies in
wildfire suppression, Krenke said.
Two California Army National Guard troops are acting as aviation
liaison officers for the Joint Operations Center and the Office of Emergency
Services.
Servicemembers and their family members
with financial questions need look no further for the answers than a new
column on the CinCHouse Web site, www.cinchouse.com.
CinCHouse and the Military Officers Association of America recently
launched a new advice column for young military families addressing
questions about pay and benefits, Meredith Leyva, CinCHouse founder, said.
"This is a terrific opportunity for our (Web site) visitors, who
represent the youngest and newest members of the military community, to get
solid advice from a trusted source," she said. "It's wonderful to have
experts from (the association) to get them the straight scoop and
clarify a lot of myths."
The Military Officers Association of America, a nonprofit organization,
is the leading voice on compensation and benefit matters for members of
the military community, according to the association's Web site.
CinCHouse is a nonprofit organization of military wives that provides
military wives and women in the military advice on managing everyday
life, according to the organization's Web site. The group is a member of
the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights
grassroots and corporate support for U.S. military members and their
families.
A team of association experts will take questions from a designated
discussion forum on the CinCHouse Web site and via e-mail, Leyva said. The
every-Monday column will provide detailed answers to those questions.
Additionally, both questions and answers will appear on CinCHouse Web
site discussion forums, Leyva said. She said she hopes this will
generate additional discussion of the topic as well as follow-up questions.
"Every member of the military family is an important part of the MOAA
family as well," retired Navy Vice Adm. Norb Ryan Jr., president of the
Military Officers Association of America, said. "It's all about making
our servicemembers and their spouses understand how valuable they are
to our country."
The ongoing effort to secure Baghdad is an
evolution, and solutions must be long-term, the spokesman for
Multinational Force Iraq told reporters in Baghdad today.
"Abating the extremists in the capital will neither be easy nor rapid,"
Army Maj. Gen. William Caldwell said of progress in Operation Together
Forward. "Challenges will ensue, but efforts will march forward block
by block."
A variety of activities are occurring in Baghdad, with Iraqi and
coalition forces working together to help quell violence and build stability,
Caldwell said.
Caldwell cited some of the statistics that reflect Operation Together
Forward's impact: 3,000 buildings cleared, more than 20 suspects
detained, more than 50 weapons and eight cars seized and more than 330 weapons
registered.
But the most significant developments are less easily measured. "What
really matters is the number of businesses that reopened and will remain
open, the refurbished stalls ... in the marketplace there," he said.
"The drainage has improved. The rubbish is removed. And of course, like
we'd all like to see, the number of children that you can see during
their summer break out riding their bikes and playing in the streets."
Caldwell said U.S. soldiers he met with over the weekend in the Dura
district say they're impressed by the caliber of their Iraqi
counterparts. "I was immediately informed Iraqis are inherently better at search
operations than coalition forces," he said. "They know what to look for.
They have a sense when something is askew, based not only on their
training and experience, but based on their innate knowledge of the
language and the people."
This gives Iraqi security forces an edge over U.S. and coalition
troops, Caldwell said. "Iraqi army and police personnel understand the
hierarchy of Iraqi family relations, the interaction with neighbors, male
versus female attitudes, and all the likeliest places that perhaps one
would stash weapons or something else that is illegal," he said.
Iraqis recognize that military power alone isn't enough to restore
security in Baghdad and have the will to see the effort through, Caldwell
said.
"The military forces, the Iraqi security forces, the coalition support
can help set the stage for peace to occur, but they cannot achieve
peace," he said. "It's going to take all the other factors. It's going to
take the economics; it's going to take the governance; and, most
importantly, it's going to take the will of the Iraqi people to make this both
work and sustain itself.
"But they've absolutely got the commitment," he added.
Caldwell quoted colleagues in the Iraqi Ministry of Defense who have
said it serves little purpose to ask when a particular phase of Operation
Together Forward began, what phase it's now in or when it will end. "As
they say, 'Working to counter terrorism is constant,'" he said.
The plan will end when security is achieved, Caldwell said, still
quoting Iraqi officials, and when Baghdad residents have restored services,
economic opportunities and hope for the future.
CONTRACTS
MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY
Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz. is being awarded a
cost-plus-award/incentive fee contract modification for the continued development
and delivery of twenty-nine Standard Missile-3 Block IA Missiles to
meet U.S. and foreign military sales requirements with Japan in support of
the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System. The total estimated value
of the contract modification is $265,896,658. The work will be performed
in Tucson, Ariz. and is expected to be complete by December 2009. None
of the funds will expire at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Sea
Systems Command, Washington, D.C. is the contracting activity
(N00024-03-C-6111).
AIR FORCE
Lockheed Martin Corp., Ft. Worth, Texas, is being awarded a
$119,920,000 firm-fixed price and cost-plus-fixed fee contract modification. This
undefinitized contract action increases the current undefinitized
contract action amount in order to extend the period of performance for
Performance Based Agile Logistics Support F-22A, Lot 6, Contract Line Item
Numbers until 30 September 2006. At this time, $89,940,000 has been
obligated. This work will complete December 2006. Headquarters
Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the
contracting activity. (FA8611-05-C-2850)
FMC Technologies, Airport Systems, Orlando, Fla., is being awarded a
$11,677,565 firm-fixed-price contract. This action provides for
production of the 25K Next Generation Small Loader ("Halvorsen"), with a total
amount of 19 each, plus five months production support. At this time,
total funds have been obligated. Headquarters Warner Robins Air
Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity.
(FA8519-06-D-0001-0004)
ARMY
CH2MHILL - Interstate Highway Construction Inc. (Joint Venture),
Englewood, Colo., was awarded on Aug. 10, 2006, a $32,210,461 increment as
part of a $114,276,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and
construction of a new temporary runway with associated taxiway
connectors and removal and replacement of existing main base runway and
all associated airfield lighting. Work will be performed at Edwards Air
Force Base, Calif., and is expected to be completed by July 21, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on
June 30, 2005, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Los Angeles, Calif., is the contracting activity
(W912PL-06-C-0013).
Choctaw Transportation Company Inc., Dyersburg, Tenn., was awarded on
Aug. 2, 2006, a $6,927,000 increment as part of a $6,927,000
firm-fixed-price contract for 2006 foreshore protection repairs. Work will be
performed in New Orleans, La., and is expected to be completed by May 29,
2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide
Web on June 22, 2006, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity
(W912P8-06-C-0179).
Envirocon Inc., Missoula, Mont., was awarded on Aug. 14, 2006, a
$6,681,765 firm-fixed-price contract for levee restoration and repair work.
Work will be performed in Sacramento, Calif., and is expected to be
completed by Nov. 18, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of
the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited
via the World Wide Web on June 16, 2006, and one bid was received. The
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento, Calif., is the contracting
activity (W91238-06-C-0022).
Smiths Detection, Edgewood, Md., was awarded on Aug. 15, 2006, a
delivery order amount of $5,590,939 as part of a $74,004,050
firm-fixed-price contract for M22 Automatic Chemical Agent Alarm Systems and M88
Chemical Agent Detectors. Work will be performed in Edgewood, Md., and is
expected to be completed by April 30, 2007. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on Aug. 2, 2006. The U.S. Army Research, Development, and
Engineering Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting
activity (W911SR-06-D-0001).
BAE Systems, York, Pa., was awarded on Aug. 14, 2006, a $5,108,058
modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for M88A2 Hercules Vehicles
for the U.S. Marine Corps. Work will be performed in York, Pa. (98
percent), and Aiken, S.C. (2 percent), and is expected to be completed by
Dec. 31, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on May 8, 2006.
The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is
the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-N030).
NAVY
General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Minneapolis, Minn., is
being awarded a not-to-exceed $21,000,000 indefinite-delivery,
indefinite-quantity time and material contract for engineering, logistics and
program management services, including incidental parts and materials
associated with these services, in support of the Advanced Mission
Computer and Displays Advanced Mission Computer (AMC) for the F/A-18 aircraft
and a variant of the AMC for AV-88B and additional platforms using
variants of the AMC. The estimated level of effort is 91,000 man-hours.
Work will be performed at Minneapolis, Minn. (85 percent); Albuquerque,
N.M. (12 percent); and Ontario, Canada (3 percent), and is expected to be
completed in December 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively
procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting
activity (N00019-06-D-0024).
Centurum, Inc., Marlton, N.J., is being awarded a $9,999,000 contract
modification to an existing previously awarded indefinite
delivery/indefinite quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N65236-02-D-5840) for
specialized engineering, technical, and logistics support services. This
contract modification brings the cumulative value of the contract to
$67,825,802. Work will be performed in the Norfolk, Va. (66 percent) and
Charleston, S.C. (34 percent), and work is expected to be completed
November 2006. This contract modification was awarded using other than
full and open competition. The procurement was synopsized in Federal
Business Opportunities and on the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center
E-commerce website on July 13, 2006. No interested parties responded to
the synopsis. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, Charleston,
S.C., is the contracting activity (Mod. P00018).
Survice Engineering Company*, Belcamp, Md., is being awarded a
$8,906,029 cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity
contract for analysis services in the areas of air weapons systems
survivability and lethality, systems safety, and modeling and simulation
verification, validation and accreditation.. This contract also includes air
weapon survivability and lethality analysis, survivability simulations,
systems analysis, survivability systems engineering analysis,
development and support and the documentation inherent in the engineering or
analysis process. Work will be performed in China Lake, Calif. (50
percent); Belcamp, Md. (25 percent); and Dayton, Ohio (25 percent), and is
expected to be completed in August 2011. Contract funds in the amount of
$34,756 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract
was competitively procured via an electronic request for proposals as a
small business set-aside, with one offer received. The Naval Air
Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, Calif., is the
contracting activity (N68936-06-D-0025).
Chesapeake Sciences Corp.,* Millersville, Md., is being awarded an
estimated $6,463,647 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, fixed-price
contract for Towed Array Integrated Product Team (TAIPT) Telemetry
parts for the Towed Arrays Product/Technical Support for TAIPT Towed Array
Programs as required by Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center
Charleston. This contract will provide products and services to expand
production and maintenance facility for new generation Surveillance Towed Array
Sensor System, AN/SQR-19 and TB-16 towed arrays. This contract includes
two one-year option periods which, if exercised, would bring the
cumulative value of this contract to the estimated $20,211,859. Work will be
performed in Millersville, Md., and is expected to be completed by
August 2007 (August 2009 with options). Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively
procured because it is a sole source acquisition under Phase
III of the Small Business Innovative Research program. The Space and
Naval Warfare Systems Center, Charleston, S.C., is the contracting
activity (N65236-06-D-8153).
Progeny Systems Corporation, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a
$5,965,835 cost-plus-incentive-fee modification under previously awarded
contract (N00024-03-C-6219) to exercise an option for engineering and
technical services in connection with the Active Intercept Acoustic Signal
Processing System, and related maintenance assistance modules. The Active
Intercept signal processing system processes those platform sensors
currently used by the AN/WLY-1 program. Progeny provides a technology
insertion path that can be used to fully exploit detection, localization,
and contact tracking potential of the submarine sonar suite. Work will
be performed in Manassas, Va., and is expected to be completed by
January 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the
contracting activity.
Armtec Countermeasures Co., Coachella, Calif., is being awarded a
$5,051,700 firm-fixed-price contract for chaff cartridge, dual RR 180/AL in
support of the 84th Combat Sustainment Wing, Air-to-Surface Munitions
Group, Hill AFB, Ogden, Utah. Work will be performed in Lillington,
N.C., and is expected to be completed by September 2007. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was
not competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point is the
contracting activity (N00104-06-C-K072).
Two Massachusetts Air National Guard F-15
fighter jets scrambled today to escort a Washington-bound United
Airlines flight to Boston's Logan National Airport, a U.S. North American
Aerospace Defense Command spokesman confirmed.
NORAD ordered the unit to scramble the aircraft, based at Otis Air
National Guard Base, Mass., after receiving a "domestic event network call"
on the aviation security hotline that links the command to the
Department of Homeland Security and other U.S. aviation security organizations,
Mike Kucherak said.
The call followed an incident aboard United Airlines Flight 923,
originally scheduled to fly from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles
International Airport. A disruptive passenger with hand cream and matches
caused officials to call for an emergency landing, Transportation Security
Agency officials confirmed.
The two jets intercepted the aircraft, escorted it to Boston, where it
landed without incident, then returned to Otis, Kucherak said.
Today's incident occurred less than a week after the arrest of several
suspects in the United Kingdom who allegedly were involved in a plot to
blow up airlines bound for the United States.
"We continue to monitor the situation and remain vigilant," Maj. Gen.
William G. Webster, director of operations for U.S. Northern Command,
said last week of U.S. Northern Command's and NORAD's roles in
maintaining situational awareness and ensuring an ability to respond rapidly if
required.
Kucherak said today's escort mission demonstrates the rapid response
capability provided since Operation Noble Eagle was launched immediately
after Sept. 11, 2001, to protect the homeland. In less than five years,
NORAD has flown more than 42,000 sorties and scrambled or diverted
aircraft more than 2,100 times, he said.
Operation Noble Eagle includes regular overflights from bases around
the country that monitor the skies and air crews that remain on alert,
ready to launch jets in response to a threat, if needed. "We are ready to
respond at a moment's notice," Kucherak said.
Today's mission also exemplifies the "great cooperation" between the
Department of Defense and Air National Guard in ensuring Operation Noble
Eagle's success, he said. The National Guard flies more than 70 percent
of all Operation Noble Eagle missions.
Navy Christens New Amphibious Assault Ship Makin Island
The U.S. Navy will christen Makin Island, the newest and last
ship in the Wasp-class of amphibious assault ships, on Saturday, Aug.
19, 2006, during a 10 a.m. CDT ceremony at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems
in Pascagoula, Miss.
Sen. Trent Lott of Mississippi will deliver the principal address at
the ceremony. Silke Hagee, wife of Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen.
Michael W. Hagee, will serve as ship's sponsor. The ceremony will be
highlighted by the time-honored Navy tradition of the sponsor breaking
the bottle of champagne across the bow to formally christen the ship.
Makin Island is named for the daring raid carried out by Marine Corps
Companies Alpha and Bravo, Second Raider Battalion, on Japanese-held
Makin Island, in the Gilbert Islands, on Aug. 17-18, 1942. The raid was
launched from the submarines USS Nautilus and USS Argonaut and
succeeded in routing the enemy forces based there, gaining valuable
intelligence. Twenty-three Navy Crosses were awarded for actions during the raid,
including to the raid's leader, Marine Corps Lt. Col. Evans Carlson,
and executive officer, Marine Corps Maj. James Roosevelt (son of
President Franklin Roosevelt). Marine Corps Sgt. Clyde Thomason was awarded
the Medal of Honor posthumously for heroism during the raid and was the
first enlisted Marine to be so honored during World War II.
One previous ship, a Casablanca-class escort aircraft carrier
(1944-1946), has borne the name Makin Island, and received five battle stars
for World War II service.
The United States maintains the largest and most capable amphibious
force in the world. Second only to the Navy's aircraft carriers in size,
the Wasp-class ships are the largest amphibious war ships in the world.
These ships are specifically designed to remain off shore near troubled
areas of the world, ready to send forces ashore quickly by helicopters,
tilt rotor aircraft and landing craft air cushion (LCAC) hovercraft.
As the centerpiece of a Navy expeditionary strike group, Wasp-class
amphibious assault ships are fully capable of conducting and supporting
amphibious assaults, advance force and special purpose operations,
non-combatant evacuation, and a variety of humanitarian missions.
The Wasp-class ships embark, transport, deploy, command and fully
support a marine expeditionary unit of about 2,000 Marines. Makin Island
can accommodate three LCACs, Marine Corps fixed wing aircraft such as
existing AV-8B Harrier II and future F-35B Lightening II aircraft, as
well as a full range of Navy/Marine Corps helicopters, tilt rotor
aircraft and amphibious vehicles to perform sea control and limited power
projection missions. Additionally, the ship is equipped with a robust
medical capability - second only to the Navy's hospital ships in afloat
capability.
Capt. Robert G. Kopas, U.S. Navy, born in Cleveland, Ohio, raised in
Phoenix, Ariz., and a graduate of Purdue University, is the ship's
commanding officer. The ship has living areas for nearly 3,200 crewmembers
and embarked forces. Makin Island will be homeported in San Diego,
Calif.
Built by Northrop-Grumman Ship Systems, the ship is 844 feet in length
with a 106-foot beam. Makin Island is the first amphibious assault
ship to incorporate "all electric" auxiliary systems and a hybrid gas
turbine - electric propulsion system. With a combined 70,000 horsepower,
this hybrid propulsion system will drive the 42,800-ton ship to speeds
in excess of 20 knots. These advanced auxiliary and propulsion systems
will reduce ship manning, maintenance and operating costs compared to
the seven previous Wasp-Class amphibious assault ships. More
information on Makin Island can be found at http://www.makin-island.navy.mil .
A temporary medical annex being constructed
at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here will provide better facilities
for wounded troops undergoing post-amputation care, a senior official
said today.
A 30,000-square-foot addition is being built onto Walter Reed's general
medical facility building, said Charles Scoville, a physical therapist
and future director of the annex, which will be called the U.S. Army
Amputee Patient Care Center.
When completed, the annex will improve "the capabilities to return our
soldiers to the highest level of function," Scoville, a 54-year-old
retired Army colonel, said.
Groundbreaking for the facility began about two weeks ago, Scoville
said, with completion slated by October 2007. The annex will provide
better facilities and equipment as well as much-needed additional room, he
said.
Because of current space limitations, Scoville said, amputee patients
at Walter Reed have to negotiate sometimes-crowded hospital hallways for
exercise. The annex, he said, will eliminate that concern, giving
patients a dedicated area for recovery training and exercise.
Walter Reed's amputee care facility mostly treats wounded soldiers, as
well as some Marines transferred from the National Naval Medical
Center, in Bethesda, Md. Walter Reed's daily amputee care caseload averages
eight to 10 inpatients and around 75 to 100 outpatients, Scoville said.
The facility admits 10 to 15 new patients each month.
Walter Reed is to close in 2011 as part of the 2005 Base Realignment
and Closure Act. Amputee recovery services at Walter Reed will be moved
into a new joint medical facility to be built in Bethesda. Other Walter
Reed-based medical care will be transferred to a new hospital to be
constructed at Fort Belvoir, Va.
The amputee treatment annex is considered a transitional facility that
will operate "as long as Walter Reed is on this campus," Scoville said.
====================================================
The nation is honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in the
9/11 terrorist attacks as well as veterans past and present in "Freedom
Walk" events from coast to coast. For a list of Freedom Walks and
guidelines on how to organize one in your community, visit
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/freedomwalk/.
General Officer Assignments
The chief of staff, Air Force announces the assignments of the
following general officers:
Brig. Gen. Brooks L. Bash, commander, 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task
Force, Air Mobility Command, Travis Air Force Base, Calif., to
director, combat and information operations, J-3A, Headquarters U.S. Strategic
Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.
Brig. Gen. Mark E. Stearns, director, strategy, policy and plans, J-5,
Headquarters Southern Command, Miami, Fla., to commander, 15th
Expeditionary Mobility Task Force, Air Mobility Command, Travis Air Force Base,
Calif.
Brig. Gen. (select) Marvin T. Smoot Jr., special assistant for general
officer and flag officer matters, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington,
D.C., to director, manpower, organization and resources, deputy chief of
staff, manpower and personnel, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon,
Washington, D.C.
CONTRACTS
ARMY
General Dynamics, St. Petersburg, Fla., was awarded on August 11, 2006,
a delivery order amount of $187,761,382 as part of a $213,025,063
firm-fixed-price contract for production of 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and caliber .50
small arms ammunitions. Work will be performed in St. Petersburg, Fla.,
and is expected to be completed by August 11, 2007. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on January 18, 2005,
and two bids were received. The Army Field Support Command, Rock Island,
Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-05-G-0002).
First Choice Armor and Equipment*, Brockton, Mass., was awarded on
August 11, 2006, a $38,272,500 firm-fixed-price contract for individual
body armor. Work will be performed in Brockton, Mass., and is expected to
be completed by November 31, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract
initiated on July 25, 2006. The Joint Contracting Command Iraq/Afghanistan,
Baghdad, Iraq, is the contracting activity (W91GY0-06-F-0058).
General Dynamics, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on August 11, 2006, a
$30,281,328 firm-fixed-price contract for Abrams Reactive Armor tile
sets. Work will be performed in McHenry, Miss. (80 percent), and
Burlington, Vt. (20 percent), and is expected to be completed by August 11, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were eight bids solicited on May 23, 2006, and three bids were
received. The Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Picatinny
Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-06-C-0179).
Schroth Safety Products Corp.*, Pompano Beach, Fla., was awarded on
August 10, 2006, an $11,320,451 modification to a firm-fixed-price
contract for Gunner's restraint kits. Work will be performed in Pompano Beach,
Fla., and is expected to be completed by May 18, 2007. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole
source contract initiated on July 27, 2006. The Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(W56HZV-06-C-0042).
Federal Prison Industries Inc., Washington, D.C., was awarded on August
11, 2006, a $9,969,333 firm-fixed-price contract for procurement of
single channel ground and airborne radio system components. Work will be
performed in Big Spring, Texas (50.13 percent), Danbury, Ct. (.43
percent), Fairton, N.J. (3.95 percent), Lexington, Ky. (.80 percent),
Loretto, Pa. (22.80 percent), Otisville, N.Y. (.41 percent), and Phoenix,
Ariz. (21.48 percent), and is expected to be completed by October 31, 2007.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on
August 7, 2006, and two bids were received. The Army
Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity
(W15P7T-06-F-0045).
H. Koch & Sons Co., Anaheim, Calif., was awarded on August 10,
2006, an $8,291,920 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for buckle
assembly retrofit kits. Work will be performed in Anaheim, Calif., and
is expected to be completed by November 4, 2007. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on October 24, 2005. The Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(W56HZV-06-C-0052).
Alliant Lake City Small Caliber Ammunition Company L.L.C.,
Independence, Mo., was awarded on August 10, 2006, a delivery order amount of
$6,520,852 as part of a $400,236,751 firm-fixed-price contract for small
caliber ammunition. Work will be performed in Independence, Mo., and is
expected to be completed by April 30, 2008. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on October 5, 2005. The Army Field Support Command, Rock
Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (DAAA09-99-D-0016).
NAVY
Lockheed Martin Corp., Maritime Systems and Sensors, Moorestown, N.J.,
is being awarded a $43,486,286 cost-plus-fixed-fee/cost-plus-award-fee,
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide design
agent engineering and technical support services for shipboard Mk 92 Fire
Control Systems (FCS). The Mk 92 FCS is a lightweight FCS used against
air, surface, and shore targets, and provides a ship with integrated
radar detection, command and control, and multiple-channel engagement
capability for fast reaction gun defensive and offensive operations. This
contract combines purchases for the Navy (45%) and the governments of
Turkey (35 percent), Egypt (13 percent), Taiwan (3 percent), Saudi Arabia
(2 percent), Poland (1 percent), and Bahrain (1 percent) under the
Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed in Huntsville, Ala.
(55 percent), Moorestown, N.J. (19 percent), Turkey (10 percent), Egypt
(5 percent), Saudi Arabia (2 percent), Taiwan (2 percent),
Poland (2 percent), Bahrain (2 percent), aboard Navy ships (2 percent),
and at Port Hueneme, Calif. (1 percent), and is expected to be
completed in August 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $25,000, will expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not
competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division,
Port Hueneme, Calif., is the contracting activity (N63394-06-D-1158).
General Electric Engineering Services, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio, is being
awarded a $23,691,379 modification to a previously awarded
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-03-D-0013) to exercise an
option for the standard depot level repair of T700-GE-401/401C turbo
shaft engines, cold section modules, and power turbine modules. Work will
be performed in Arkansas City, Kan., and is expected to be completed in
August 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the
contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
ATK Thiokol, Corinne, Utah, is being awarded a $24,300,000 firm-fixed
price, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract. This is a basic
contract with five year ordering period to perform the function of
monitoring and assessing the health and readiness of Peacekeeper Stage I
and III rocket motors. At this time, $960,000 has been obligated. This
work will be completed by June 2012. Solicitations began March 2006 and
negotiations were completed in May 2006. Headquarters Space and Missile
Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting
activity. (FA8818-06-D-0022)
Lockheed Martin Mission Systems, Manassas, Va., is being awarded an
$18,715,915 cost-plus-award fee fixed-price contract modification. This
project is in support of Department of Defense's Global Transportation
Network system. This action extends the current contract until August 31,
2007. At this time, $2,211,510 has been obligated. This work will be
completed by August 2007. Headquarters AMC Specialized Contracting
Branch, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., is the contracting activity.
(F19628-95-C-0029/P00286)
Defense Systems Inc., EW Systems, Peyton, Colo., is being awarded a
$5,366,941 firm-fixed-price contract. This action will provide
full-programmed depot maintenance applicable to the AN/MSR-T4 system at CONUS and
OCONUS sites as specified by the Air Combat Command. At this time, no
funds have been obligated. Headquarters Ogden Air Logistics Center, Hill
Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity. (FA8217-06-D-0003)
* Small Business
Momentum continues to build as 48 U.S.
cities -- a number that continues to grow -- prepare to sponsor America
Supports You Freedom Walks to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The first Freedom Walk, inaugurated Sept. 11, 2005, in Washington,
D.C., attracted more than 15,000 participants, including family members who
lost loved ones in the attacks.
The walk proved to be so meaningful to those involved that Allison
Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, hopes to
make it a nationwide observance.
"We knew that it would be a powerful moment when civilians from all
walks of life and family members who lost loved ones and (Department of
Defense) employees who lost coworkers came together and simply said, 'We
won't forget,'" Barber said.
But the synergy that occurred when 15,000 people who began the walk at
the Pentagon crash site met up with family members of the victims just
leaving a private ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery took even
Barber by surprise.
"They integrated into this walk, and together they said, 'We will not
forget,'" she said. "It was life-changing."
The response to that first Freedom Walk proved to be so strong,
particularly among families who called it a healing experience, that Barber
recognized the importance of extending its reach.
"We knew that we had to share the Freedom Walk with more than
Washington, D.C.," Barber said. "And that is why this year, on the fifth
anniversary (of the attacks), that the Department of Defense has just thrown
open the invitation to fellow Americans" so they can participate, too.
They're responding around the country, with cities, schools, churches,
civic organizations, neighborhoods, even individual families in 26
states choosing to conduct their own Freedom Walks. Barber said she expects
more events to be announced after schools go back into session and
activity picks up within civic groups. "I think we are really starting a
new national tradition," she said.
No two Freedom Walks are expected to look the same, Barber said. In
Sebring, Ohio, 9-year-old Colton Lockner is organizing a Freedom Walk for
the town's nearly 5,000 residents. In Killeen, Texas, the Killeen
Independent School District is hosting a Freedom Walk on every one of its 50
campuses, including elementary, middle and high schools, and the local
military base, Fort Hood, is sponsoring its own Freedom Walk at a local
high school stadium.
Large-scale Freedom Walks are planned in Oklahoma City, Chicago and
Washington, D.C., and dozens of other U.S. cities are planning their own
Freedom Walks.
Regardless of their size -- a small family or a whole city -- or how
simple or elaborate they might be, all Freedom Walks will offer a common,
unifying activity that brings participants together to reflect and
renew their commitment to freedom, Barber said.
The Freedom Walk has no agenda, she emphasized. It's about coming
together as a nation to remember those lost during Sept. 11th and to pay
respect to veterans past and present who defend the freedoms that fell
under attack that day, she said.
"It's that combination of saying 'We won't forget,' and also that we
will honor those who have, throughout the history of our country, chosen
to defend the freedoms we hold so dear," she said. "The country needs a
unifying activity and an opportunity to come together, and that's what
the Freedom Walk is."
More information about the Freedom Walk is posted on DoD's America
Supports You Web site. Barber encourages groups planning Freedom Walks to
write to the Web site to share information about their events.
As the ceasefire in Lebanon took effect,
the U.S. military evacuated 21 more Americans from Beirut in recent days,
DoD spokesman Bryan Whitman said today.
This brings the total of Americans evacuated from Lebanon to 14,876
since the conflict between Israel and the terror group Hezbollah began
July 16.
U.S. Navy ships remain off the coast of Lebanon to accommodate more
evacuations, if needed. "But there are only trickles of people requesting
to be departed," Whitman said.
Seven vessels still are committed to the operation, as is the 24th
Marine Expeditionary Unit. The naval vessel Swift is still available to
deliver humanitarian supplies. The destroyers USS Cole and USS Barry are
available for escort duties, if required. Aviation assets, including
CH-53 Sea Stallion and CH-46 Chinook helicopters, are available to fly
evacuees to Cyprus, if needed.
The other vessels still in the area are: the USS Iwo Jima, the USS
Trenton, the USS Nashville and the USS Whidbey Island.
All told, about 6,000 American servicemembers are participating in the
operation.
U.S. ships are standing by in case humanitarian aid is needed. The
United Nations is delivering aid that had been bottled up in Beirut by the
fighting, Whitman said. "With respect to supplies, there is not a
current shipment of humanitarian assistance that the U.S. military is
looking at bringing in," he said. "As we go into the future, there will be
opportunities for ship and eventually air to be able to deliver those
types of things from other countries, commercially."
Three hundred one soldiers with an
Alaska-based unit extended in Iraq will return to the combat zone to serve with
their comrades in arms, Army officials announced yesterday.
A total of 378 soldiers with the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team had
returned to Alaska in June and July at the end of their scheduled
12-month tour in Iraq. But before the rest of the 4,000-soldier unit could
redeploy, officials halted their return to bolster Iraqi and coalition
forces in Baghdad.
Now, 301 of those soldiers who made it back to Alaska will return to
their unit within the week. The other 77 soldiers were considered
essential to unit operations in Alaska or had other special circumstances.
Some had already reported to mandatory schools or follow-on assignments,
or had medical issues or family emergencies to deal with.
"From a tactical and military standpoint, this makes all the sense in
the world. It is much preferable to reassemble a proven team that has
fought together for so long and performed so well in such a difficult
environment," Army Maj. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., commander of U.S. Army
Alaska, at Fort Wainwright, said. "The brigade needs these soldiers
back to be the whole and very capable force that it has been over the last
year."
Army officials briefed reporters in the Pentagon on the decision late
yesterday. Jacoby and other Alaska-based unit leaders, soldiers and
family members participated via video teleconference.
Jacoby said that on Aug. 1 he told the soldiers who had returned to
Alaska to expect to go back to Iraq. They and their families took the news
with characteristic stoicism, officials said. "Those of us on the
periphery of this decision can only begin to imagine the thoughts and
emotions going through the minds of these soldiers and especially the minds
of their families," he said.
"I would ask all Americans to keep these incredibly brave, incredibly
dedicated members of your armed forces and their families in your
thoughts every single day," Jacoby added. "Truly these young men and women
are the best our country has to offer. We can be very, very proud of
them."
Several soldiers and soldiers' wives in Alaska answered reporters'
questions during the news briefing.
Sgt. Brian Pearce, a member of Headquarters Battery, 4th Battalion,
11th Field Artillery, is one of the soldiers preparing to return to Iraq.
He said he and his fellow soldiers have their minds set on returning to
the troops they've served with for the past year.
"We're leaving our families back here, but we're going back to our
extended family in Iraq, and that's where our minds have been since we came
back here," he said. "We're just ready to go ... get everybody gathered
up, do what we've got to do, and come home."
"My husband ... took an oath, and he signed his name on a piece of
paper, and I knew what I was getting into when I married him," said Terry
Tanner, whose husband is assigned to Battery C, 4th Battalion, 11th
Field Artillery Regiment. "That's pretty much it. Right now all I'm doing
is making sure that my kids are taken care of and we're on a normal
routine and schedule."
Mary Cheney, whose husband is assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 2nd
Infantry Regiment, echoed those sentiments. Cheney recently had the
couple's fourth child, but still said she accepts what Army life brings.
"Am I happy about him being gone? No. But I accept what he's doing. If
he was given the choice to come home or to stay with his soldiers, he
would stay with his soldiers, so I would never question his dedication
to his career," she said. "I understand that that's where his place of
business is at this point. His heart is with his family, but his mind
and his dedication are to his soldiers and to the Army and to the
brigade."
Tanner and Cheney are leaders of their units' family readiness groups.
Lt. Gen. Michael D. Rochelle, the Army's personnel chief, called them
"stalwart Army spouses."
"This (change in redeployment schedule) really does represent not only
the extraordinary versatility of our Army and our soldiers, but I want
to emphasize once again the level of commitment of the family members,"
Rochelle said at the Pentagon.
But, he said, their dedication to their loved ones' Army mission
doesn't lessen the service's responsibility to care for these families. "In
fact," he added, "it even heightens ... our commitment to make sure that
they get every consideration possible with respect for this last-minute
change of mission."
Army leaders are particularly mindful of deployment stress, especially
in children affected by this deployment rollercoaster. Fort Wainwright
Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Ron Johnson said the Army community is
pulling out all stops to make sure families in Alaska are prepared to
handle additional stress from this change in mission.
"One of the primary concerns in taking care of families is giving them
skills and tools they need to deal with deployment-related issues," he
said.
Since receiving word of the deployment extension, the Army has
augmented the local support staff with child psychologists, adolescent
counselors, and specially trained chaplains with advanced degrees in family
counseling, Johnson explained. "All these people are working together to
focus on dealing with the family-related issues and particularly the
children," he said.
Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Cucolo III, the Army's public affairs chief, said
the Army has learned from previous zero-hour changes in mission, just
as it is learning from this one. "In this uncertain time, there is no
question that the Army has to be prepared to do this again. I just want
to say we are focused on the 172nd Stryker Brigade right now, but every
soldier, every family member is extremely important," he said. "The
Army takes it very seriously that we have to address those individual
issues. ...
"We have not been perfect in the past, and we are probably not perfect
now," he added. "But, boy we're trying to get there."
Despite the stress of the extension and sending soldiers who recently
returned home back to Iraq, Jacoby said, the Alaska Army community
considers the change in mission a point of pride. The 172nd Stryker Brigade
Combat Team "was agile enough; it was combat proven; it was experienced
and ready to take on the requirements in Baghdad," he said. "And so
they've got the right brigade for that."
Flag Officer Assignment
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen announced the following flag
officer assignment:
Rear Adm. (selectee) Wayne G. Shear is being assigned as commander,
Naval Facilities Engineering Command/chief of Civil Engineers, Washington,
D.C.Shear is currently serving as director, Ashore Readiness
Division/director, Seabee Readiness Division, N46, Office of the Chief of Naval
Operations, Washington, D.C.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen announced the following flag
officer assignment:
Rear Adm. (lower half) Scott R. Van Buskirk is being assigned as
commander, Carrier Strike Group Nine, Everett, Wash.Van Buskirk is currently
serving as deputy to the deputy chief of staff for political, military
and economic business, Multi-National Forces, Iraq.
America's 9/11 Foundation is getting ready
to hit the road again with its annual America's 9/11 Ride in support of
the nation's first responders, the foundation's promotions manager and
media contact said.
"This is the fifth anniversary of the (Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist
attacks), but it is actually our 6th ride," Roger Flick said of the two-day
event that begins tomorrow. "The first (ride) left eight weeks after the
attacks from in front of the White House, and we left on Veterans Day."
The motorcycle rides started because America's 9/11 Foundation, Inc.
founders, Ted Sjurseth and his wife, Lisa, were looking to help boost New
York City's devastated economy, Flick said. During their brief stay at
the conclusion of the first ride, the 250 participants managed to
infuse $50,000 into New York City's economy, according to the foundation's
Web site.
Now the ride always takes place the third week in August. This allows
the foundation, a Virginia-based nonprofit, to avoid conflict with the
many observances in New York that take place closer to the actual
anniversary of the attacks, Flick said.
While that first ride left with about 250 bikes, including two ridden
by former Sen. Ben Campbell of Colorado, and Vice Adm. Michael Cowen,
former surgeon general of the Navy, about 700 bikes are registered this
year, Flick said.
Tomorrow morning, 83 uniformed motorcycle officers will escort the
riders along their route beginning in Somerset, Pa., he said. The ride will
visit all three Sept. 11 crash sites.
"We're starting ... where Flight 93 went down," Flick said. "Then we go
to the Pentagon (and) ride past the crash site."
The ride concludes Aug. 19 at about 5 p.m. in New York with a ceremony
thanking everyone who participated in the ride. During the ceremony, a
motorcycle will be raffled to one of the law enforcement departments
represented by one of the uniformed officers, Flick said.
Also part of that ceremony is the raffling of a custom "chopper." This
is the third such raffle that will benefit the foundation's college
scholarship fund.
"Our foundation supports fire, police and EMS personnel," he said. "The
proceeds that we get from the raffled bikes and some of the other
things that we do go toward our college scholarship fund."
The foundation's scholarship fund is available to family members of
active or disabled first-responders, Flick said. "This year, we'll be
giving away nine $2,000 scholarships," he said.
This year's chopper incorporates symbols that represent different
elements of the three sites of the terrorist attacks, Flick said. For
example, the oil tank is in the shape of the Pentagon, and embedded in the
rear fender is a keystone insignia, representing Pennsylvania. The twin
towers are represented on the front fender.
The group will wrap up the weekend trip with a visit to Ground Zero
early Aug. 20, according to the foundation's Web site.
WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2006 - U.S. European Command will assume command
of U.S. military forces operating off the coast of Lebanon and in the
eastern Mediterranean Sea, the organization's commander said here today.
Marine Gen. James L. Jones, speaking at a Pentagon news conference,
said European Command elements will assume command of the operations in
that area from U.S. Central Command Aug. 23.
European Command has supported U.S. Central Command in the effort.
Central Command originally received the mission because Lebanon is in that
organization's assigned area of operations. But Central Command also is
responsible for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.
This change will allow Central Command assets to go to other duties.
Israel is in European Command's area of operations, and the command
will need to work closely with European nations as events unfurl. "We will
be working with the U.S. Central Command and, by the end of the month,
we will effect the handover of responsibility," Jones said.
Military forces in the region are assuring the evacuation of American
citizens and, if need be, the U.S. embassy. They also are assisting in
humanitarian activities. "Beyond that, we have no additional
instructions," Jones said.
Jones also announced today that Navy Vice Adm. John Stufflebeem,
commander of U.S. 6th Fleet, has been named as the joint task force
commander. He replaces Vice Adm. Pat Walsh, 5th Fleet commander.
To date, 14,876 Americans have evacuated Lebanon. "All things are
proceeding normally, and we await further developments and further mission
taskings as they might come down," Jones said.
DoD Releases Selected Acquisition Reports
The Department of Defense (DoD) has released details on major defense
acquisition program cost, schedule, and performance changes since the
December 2005 reporting period. This information is based on the
Selected Acquisition Reports (SARs) submitted to the Congress for the June
2006 reporting period.
SARs summarize the latest estimates of cost, schedule, and performance
status. These reports are prepared annually in conjunction with the
President's budget. Subsequent quarterly exception reports are required
only for those programs experiencing unit cost increases of at least 15
percent or schedule delays of at least six months. Quarterly SARs are
also submitted for initial reports, final reports, and for programs
that are rebaselined at major milestone decisions.
The total program cost estimates provided in the SARs include research
and development, procurement, military construction, and
acquisition-related operation and maintenance (except for pre-Milestone B programs
which are limited to development costs pursuant to 10 USC §2432).
Total program costs reflect actual costs to date as well as future
anticipated costs. All estimates include anticipated inflation allowances.
The current estimate of program acquisition costs for programs covered
by SARs for the prior reporting period (December 2005) was $1,584,718.7
million. After subtracting the costs for two final reports (Aerial
Common Sensor (ACS) and Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS)) and adding
the costs for four new programs (Advanced Deployable System (ADS), Heavy
Lift Replacement (HLR), LHA Replacement, and VH-71 Presidential
Helicopter) from the December 2005 reporting period, the adjusted current
estimate of program acquisition costs was $1,612,682.5 million. For the
June 2006 reporting period, there was a net cost decrease of $76.7
million (-0.005 percent), due to revised cost estimates and support
requirements for the MH-60R.
-MORE-
Current Estimate
($ in Millions)
December 2005 (85 programs)
$ 1,584,718.7
Less final reports on two programs (ACS and ASDS)
-1,965.6
Plus four new programs
(ADS, HLR, LHA Replacement and VH-71)
+29,929.4
June 2006 Adjusted (87 programs)
$ 1,612,682.5
Changes Since Last Report:
Economic
$ 0.0
Quantity
0.0
Schedule
0.0
Engineering 0.0
Estimating
-121.4
Other 0.0
Support
+44,7
Net Cost Change $ -76.7
June 2006 (87 programs) $1,612,605.8
For the June 2006 reporting period, there were quarterly exception SARs
submitted for five programs. The reasons for the submissions are
provided below.
Navy:
AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) - The SAR was submitted to
report program expenditures of more than 90 percent. Therefore, in
accordance with 10 USC §2432, this is the final AESA SAR submission.
MH-60R - The SAR was submitted to rebaseline from a Development to a
Production Estimate following a Full Rate Production decision (Milestone
III) on March 31, 2006. Program costs decreased $76.7million (-0.7
percent) from $11,396.0 million to $11,319.3 million, due to revised cost
estimates and support requirements.
MH-60S - The SAR was submitted to report a schedule slip of six months
for the Airborne Mine Countermeasure (AMCM) Initial Operational
Capability (IOC) from March 2007 to September 2007. Also, AMCM Interim
Process Review IV slipped from April 2007 to July 2007.
-MORE-
Air Force:
C-5 AMP (Avionics Modernization Program) - This is the initial SAR
submission since the program exceeded the Major Defense Acquisition
Program (MDAP) reporting criteria.
NAVSTAR GPS (Global Positioning System) - The SAR was submitted to
report schedule slips of six months or more. The M-code Receiver Card
Ready for Production slipped from January 2009 to May 2011. Also, the 1st
Block IIF Space Vehicle Available for Launch slipped from November 2006
to January 2009.
New SARs
(As of June 30, 2006)
The Department of Defense has submitted an initial SAR for the Air
Force's C-5 AMP (Avionics Modernization Program). This report does not
represent cost growth. Baselines established on this program will be the
point from which future changes will be measured. The current cost
estimate is provided below:
Current Estimate
Program ($ in Millions)
C-5 AMP (Avionic Modernization Program) $ 859.3
CONTRACTS
NAVY
Harris Corp., RF Communications Division, Rochester, N.Y.; is being
awarded a $69,174,892 firm-fixed-price blanket purchase agreement order
for the procurement of a multi-band multi-mission radio. Work will be
performed in Rochester, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by October
25, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured and two offers
received via NECO. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the
contracting activity (M67854-06-A-7001).
Todd Pacific Shipyards Corp., Seattle Division, Seattle Wash., is
being awarded an estimated $10,949,272 award fee/performance fee
modification under previously awarded contract (N00024-04-C-4152) to exercise an
option for performance of the dry dock ship planned incremental
availability of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). The aim of the contract is
to provide year-around maintenance so as to maximize vessel readiness.
The option will authorize the second major industrial dry docking
availability of the contract, and entails modification and repair of
shipboard equipment, hull and ship systems. Work will be performed in
Bremerton, Wash., and is expected to be completed by March 2007. Contract will
expire by the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems
Command Puget Sound naval shipyard & intermediate maintenance facility,
Bremerton, Wash., is the contracting activity.
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., Baltimore, Md., is being awarded
$9,399,000 firm-fixed price task order 0006 under a previously awarded
indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract
(N62477-04-D-0032) for repair of Runway 02/20 at Marine Corps Base Quantico. Work will
be performed in Quantico, Va., and is expected to be completed by
January 2007. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The basic contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC
e-solicitation website with 17 proposals received and award made on July 22,
2004. The total contract amount is not to exceed $500,000,000, which
includes the base period and four option years. The multiple contractors
(seven in number) may compete for task orders under the terms and
conditions of the existing contract. Three proposals were received for this
task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington,
Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Nordic Air Inc., Geneva, Ohio, is being award an $8,255,812
firm-fixed-price order under previously awarded contract (M67854-04-D-5008) for
various environmental control units with associated manuals and
technical data. This effort covers 136 one and a half ton units and 569 three
ton units and 104 five ton units. All units are being purchased with
contractor logistics support and warranty. Work will be performed in
Geneva, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by May 2007. Contract funds
will not expire by the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
competitively awarded contract with eight proposals received. The Marine Corps
Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Northrop Grumman Defense Mission Systems, Inc., Reston, Va., is being
awarded an $8,036,730 cost-plus-award-fee modification under previously
awarded contract (N00178-04-C-2006) to exercise an option for
continuing engineering support for the development, installation, integration,
maintenance and testing of combat system simulation and stimulation
equipment for the Aegis program. This contract combines purchases for the
Navy (72 percent) and the governments of Japan (16 percent); South Korea
(7 percent); Spain (3 percent); and Norway (2 percent) under the
Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va. (65
percent); Mount Laurel, N.J. (20 percent); New Church, Va. (7 percent);
San Diego, Calif. (5 percent); Arlington, Va., (3 percent); and is
expected to be completed by September 2007. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not
competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren
Division, Dahlgren, Va., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a
$6,934,214 firm-fixed-price modification under previously awarded contract
(N00024-04-C-5460) for land based phalanx weapon system ancillary
equipment. This modification is for ancillary equipment for Army land based
Phalanx weapon system, which is the Phalanx close-in weapon system in
the land-based configuration for the Army’s counter-rocket,
artillery, mortar program. Work will be performed in Louisville, Ky., and is
expected to be completed by April 2007. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command,
Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P., Armament Systems Division,
Minneapolis, Minn., is being awarded a $6,267,357 firm-fixed-price contract
for 57MM pre-fragmented, programmable proximity fuzed round, MK 295 MOD
cartridges & 57MM MK 8 MOD clips. The 57MM 3P MK 295 MOD cartridge
is ammunition to be used in combating aerial, surface, and ground
targets. The 57MM MK 8 MOD clip connects two 57MM 3P MK 295 MOD cartridges
together, in order to successfully fire the cartridges in accordance
with the applicable gun systems operational requirements. Work will be
performed in Karlskoga, Sweden (47.39 percent); Raufoss, Norway (44.95
percent); and Louisville, Ky. (1.04 percent), and is expected to be
completed by September 2006. Contract funds in the amount of $3,062,987, will
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not
competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division,
Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity. (N00164-06-C-4246)
Tridea Works LLC*, Reston, Va., is being awarded an estimated
$6,249,689 modification under a previously awarded
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N65236-04-D-6845) for the
Federal Bureau of Investigation support for communications assistance for
law enforcement implementation services. Work will be performed in
Chantilly, Va., and is expected to be completed by September 2007
(September 2009 with options). Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This contract modification was awarded using other
than full and open competition. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems
Center, Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity (Mod P00005).
DoD Announces Recruiting and Retention Numbers for July
The Department of Defense announced today its recruiting and retention
statistics for the active and reserve components for the month of July.
Active duty recruiting. All services met or exceeded their
recruiting goals in July.
Accessions
Goal
Percent
Army
10,890
10,450
104
Navy
4,043
4,043
100
Marine Corps
3,197
2,865
112
Air Force
2,130
2,121
100
Active duty recruiting from Oct. 1, 2005 to July 31, 2006.
Accessions
Goal
Percent
Army
62,505
60,150
104
Navy
28,499
28,499
100
Marine Corps
24,300
23,968
101
Air Force
25,089
24,968
100
Active duty retention. All services are projected to meet their
retention goals for the current fiscal year.
Reserve forces recruiting. Three of the six reserve components met
or exceeded their recruiting goals in July.
Accessions
Goal
Percent
Army National Guard
5,021
6,734
75
Army Reserve
3,751
4,334
87
Navy Reserve
979
1,097
89
Marine Corps Reserve
911
885
103
Air National Guard
772
738
105
Air Force Reserve
550
550
100
Reserve forces recruiting from Oct. 1, 2005 to July 31, 2006.
Accessions
Goal
Percent
Army National Guard
56,498
56,722
99
Army Reserve
28,868
29,170
99
Navy Reserve
7,724
9,249
84
Marine Corps Reserve
7,041
6,961
101
Air National Guard
7,197
7,726
93
Air Force Reserve
5,954
5,758
103
· Reserve forces retention. For July, Army National Guard
retention was 120 percent of the cumulative goal of 28,408, and Air National
Guard retention was 107 percent of its cumulative goal of 7,121. Both
the Army and Air Guard are currently at 98 and 99 percent of their end
strength, respectively. Losses in all reserve components for June are
well within acceptable limits. Indications are that trend will continue
into July.
Bagram A-10 Thuderbolts Surge for Summer Offensives in Afghanistan
Six U.S. and coalition
troops peer out from a remote position on a ridge top in Afghanistan. At
sunset on the third day of their vigil, a large force of Taliban
extremists carrying heavy machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades surround
and pin down the team.
By design, an Air Force joint tactical air controller is with the team.
His job is to direct strike aircraft to targets on the ground. The
situation on the ridgeline is desperate until an Air Force pilot flying an
A-10 Thunderbolt II in the vicinity contacts him.
Helping the A-10 pilot find and target his attackers on the ground, the
air controller stays in radio contact, except when forced to pick up
his weapon and fire at the enemy closing in.
The A-10 and its pilot hammer at the enemy with bombs and the plane's
massive gun.
"Fifty minutes later the remaining enemy retreated and (the JTAC) and
his team walked off that ridge to re-supply and fight again the next
day," said Air Force Lt. Col. Keith McBride, commander of the 81st
Expeditionary Fighter Squadron deployed here.
McBride, an A-10 pilot, uses this real-life story to illustrate his
point that the A-10 is saving lives in Afghanistan.
"There have been numerous occasions where our troops have been taking
heavy fire and we show up, and either our presence ends the engagement
or we employ against enemy positions and end the engagement," said Air
Force Col. Tony Johnson, the 455th Expeditionary Operations Group
commander and an A-10 pilot.
Flying hours and the amount of bombs and bullets used by A-10 pilots
here have increased all summer due to two offensives by ground forces
against the enemy.
Operations Mountain Lion and Mountain Thrust flushed Taliban extremists
out of where they normally hole-up, exposing them to U.S. and coalition
forces on the ground, who called on A-10 pilots to provide close-air
support.
"The increase in weapons deliveries is primarily because U.S. and
coalition operations have carried the fight to the extremists," Air Force
Brig. Gen. Christopher Miller, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing commander,
said. One of Miller's jobs is to advise Combined Joint Task Force 76's
U.S. Army commander on the use of combat aircraft in Afghanistan.
"Where extremists have attacked the Afghan people and their
infrastructure, we have helped defend them, and we have carried the fight to the
enemy, to push them back and reduce their ability to carry out further
attacks," he said. "The whole A-10 team, from the airmen who launch them
to the pilots who fly them, should be proud. They are saving the lives
of Americans and many others they don't even know. And in the big
picture, they're enabling the security Afghanistan needs to rebuild into a
society where terrorists can't flourish."
The A-10's ability to precisely hit targets also lends itself well to
U.S. forces engaged in rebuilding Afghanistan, Johnson said.
Preservation of infrastructure and limiting damage on the ground are crucial,
since the country of Afghanistan is not the enemy.
"We're also rebuilding a country," he said. "I don't know what other
airplane would be better at this than the A-10."
The A-10 originally was designed around its 30 mm gun, designated the
GAU-8. The gun is more of a small artillery piece --firing huge bullets
into target areas at a rate of 65 per second. The A-10 is the only Air
Force aircraft designed specifically for close air support -- providing
firepower for ground troops in fights with enemy forces.
If the gun isn't enough, 11 stations underneath the plane hold up to
16,000 pounds of bombs, missiles and rockets.
"Our weapons effects make a decisive impact on the battle," McBride
said. "Ground forces rely on our rapid response and our pinpoint
accuracy."
The GAU-8, with its 8-foot, rifled barrels, delivers bullets at a
blistering 3,000 feet per second. When pilots pull the trigger, they aim
using the plane's computer, which takes into account factors like speed,
altitude, distance from the target, and angle of the plane's nose. This
combination of physics and software make the 30 mm gun on the A-10
extremely accurate.
"Just the large amount and type of weapons the A-10 can carry, combined
with a long loiter time over our troops on the ground, makes up for the
lack of organic, heavy weapons (carried by U.S. and coalition forces),"
McBride said.
But it's not just the A-10's firepower that makes it an excellent
choice for supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. The plane is designed
rugged, much like the mountainous terrain of Afghanistan. To enable twists
and turns through low valleys and high peaks, the wings stick straight
out, allowing small, sharp turns. It's heavily armored for the benefit
of its pilots and is built to land and take off from the well-worn
surface of Bagram's runway.
The A-10 combines some of the best of today's high-technology Air Force
with a solid, low-tech foundation. The addition of a targeting and
laser-designation pod was a huge boost to the plane's capabilities but
still no substitute for the pilot's eyeballs.
"Most other aircraft rely heavily on (electronic) sensors to find and
target the enemy," said Capt. Rick Mitchell, an active-duty pilot
deployed here from the Air Force Reserve's 442nd Fighter Wing, at Whiteman
Air Force Base, Mo. "In the A-10, it's not unusual for a pilot to use
binoculars."
When Mitchell flies, his preparation for the mission is extensive and
can take more time than the actual combat sortie.
Once in the air, pilots can fly to pre-planned targets or fly in
holding patterns above potential battlefields, waiting to swoop down when
ground forces encounter the enemy.
The Combined Air Operations Center, in an undisclosed Southwest Asia
location, generates missions for Bagram's A-10s. This high-tech command
center runs air operations for both Afghanistan and Iraq.
"We work those guys pretty hard," said British Royal Air Force Flight
Lt. Matthew Adamson-Drage, a fighter controller who helps assign
missions to the A-10s at the CAOC. "The A-10s are pretty much the backbone of
(air operations in Afghanistan) because they're flying all the time
every day."
To keep the A-10 in fighting form and meet this summer's sweltering
pace, the 455th Expeditionary Maintenance Group had to get creative to
keep the aircraft ready for missions.
Airmen in the 455th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron, commanded by
Maj. Tim Coger, work around the clock on two aircraft at a time in
Bagram's A-10 "phase hangar." Every 400 flight-hours, an A-10 requires a
thorough inspection of certain essential parts.
"We're flying off 400 hours here faster than we do at home station,"
Coger said. "The maintenance tempo is driven by the flying. Since the
pilots are flying the jets more, it has caused us to do more maintenance."
And they're not just keeping aircraft flying. Maintainers also load the
weapons A-10s need to support ground troops.
That's where Master Sgt. Dennis Peterson, from Spangdahlem Air Base,
Germany, comes in. He is the 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance
Squadron's chief weapons loader. "It's been steady work ever since we
touched down here," he said. "Rarely a day goes by when (the A-10s) don't
come back empty. To see that airplane come back empty is the hallmark of
being a weapons loader."
The load teams at Bagram keep a running score of the bombs, rockets and
bullets used by A-10s since arriving here in May by posting the tallies
on a mural painted next to the group's lounge to remind airmen about
the gravity of their mission.
"Our maintenance troops have performed magnificently," McBride said.
The sum of maintenance and flying efforts enables the A-10 to be an
effective protector of U.S. and coalition ground forces on the front lines
against extremists whose goal is to drag Afghanistan back to the
Taliban's repressive brutality and again let the country be used as a haven
for terrorists.
"The A-10 is employing lethal firepower when it's needed most by troops
on the ground," Mitchell said. "There's nothing more rewarding to a
close-air-support pilot than knowing the firepower you employed just saved
the lives of guys on the ground."
CONTRACTS
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
U.S. Food Service/Joseph Webb, Vista, Calif., is being awarded a
maximum $34,585,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for
prime vendor full line food distribution for Los Angeles, San Diego,
MWTC Bridgeport, Calif.; and Yuma, Ariz., prime vendor zones. Using
services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Job Corps, and Coast Guard.
Proposals were Web-solicited and 3 responded. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance
completion is August 21, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-06-D-3206).
ARMY
GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C. (Joint Venture), Sterling Heights, Mich.,
was awarded on Aug. 16, 2006, a $38,403,684 modification to a
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for additional contractor logistics support for the
3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. Work will be performed in Ontario,
Canada (61.9 percent), Iraq (23.4 percent), Fort Lewis, Wash. (5.7
percent), Fort Wainwright, Alaska (4.7 percent), Sterling Heights, Mich. (2.2
percent), Kuwait (1.6 percent), and Vilseck, Germany (0.5 percent), and
is expected to be completed by Dec. 15, 2006. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on July 28, 2006. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(DAAE07-02-C-B001).
AIR FORCE
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Norwalk, Conn., is being awarded a
$10,800,000 firm-fixed price contract. This requirements type contract is
for interim contractor support for the AN/APN 241 low power color radar,
applicable to the C-130 aircraft. The contract will entail a basic
12-month period of performance with a one-year option period. The
requirement consists of various contract line items for repair and retest with
best estimated quantities and also include other line items such as
contract acquired material, technical field services and travel. At this
time, total funds have been obligated. Headquarters Warner Robins Air
Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity.
(FA8504-06-D-0002)
McCrone Associates Inc., Westmont, Ill., is being awarded a $6,118,264
cost-plus-fixed fee contract modification. This action provides
particle analysis services, non-personal services for the processing and
analyzing of particle samples, for the purpose of nuclear test ban treaty
verification. At this time, total funds have been obligated. This work
will complete September 2007. 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base,
Fla., is the contracting activity. (FA2521-05-C-8007/P00014)
BOC Group Inc. Murray Hill, N.J., is being awarded a $5,010,554
firm-fixed-price contract modification. This action provides for gas analysis
services, non-personal services for the processing, separation and
radioassay of atmospheric gas samples for elemental determination of sample
components for the purpose of nuclear test ban treaty verification.
This action is the exercise of the second contract option period. At this
time, total funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by
September 2007. 45th Space Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., is the
contracting activity. (FA2521-06-C-8004/P00005)
NAVY
Bath Iron Works Corp., (subsidiary of General Dynamics), Bath, Maine,
was awarded a $10,232,700 modification under previously awarded contract
(N00024-02-C-2303) for structural assemblies for the DDG 51 Class ship
building program. DDG 51 Class structural assemblies constitute the
forward deckhouse of the ship. This procurement will assist in the
recovery from fire sustained during construction aboard DDG 103 (USS Truxtun).
Work will be performed in Bath, Maine, and is expected to be completed
by October 2006. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. The Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair,
Bath, Maine, is the contracting activity.
Shock Tube Systems, Inc., Sterling, Conn., is being awarded a maximum
$9,646,640 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity
contract for a minimum 10,824/maximum 136,986 MK64 Mod 0 Remote Firing
Devices and associated data. The MK64 Mod 0 remote firing device is
designed to provide the explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) operator a safe
standoff distance from the MK33 tool and target. Work will be performed
in Sterling, Conn., and is expected to be completed by August 2011.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
contract was competitively procured with the solicitation being
publicized on the World-Wide Web, with two offers received. The Naval Surface
Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Ind., is the contracting
activity (N00164-06-D-4247).
