El Morro

BOSS Blood DriveUSAG Fort Buchanan partners with local blood bank to give the gift of life

Vol. 2 Issue 5 Sentinel of the Caribbean February 2016

From the Garrison Commander

2 El Morro

uenos Dias, Fort Buchanan. Because Fort Buchanan

changed from Camp Bu-chanan to Fort Buchanan in 1940, we are in our 76th year of existence as a Fort. So, in FY16, we will be called Team 76. Team 76 has already ac-complished a lot this FY and many more opportunities exist so Follow Me as we lead Fort Buchanan to new heights!

One of Fort Buchanan’s key objec-tives is increased community involve-ment. We have many activities hap-pening at Fort Buchanan so please join us as we continue to strengthen our

installation, interagency, and commu-nity partner relationships via events.

One such event is the Service Member and Family Member(s) Veterans Affairs Benefits Workshop being conducted at the Fort Buchanan Community Club on 19 FEB 16. This event is a collaborative effort between the VA and Fort Buchanan and is great opportunity to learn about VA benefits and installation support organizations via two sessions: 0800-1200 and 1230-1630.

Another event is the President’s Day run on 20 FEB 16. Registra-tion starts at 1600 in front of the Fort Buchanan gym. What a great way to perform a fitness activity and become a Fort Buchanan Team 76 members/supporter.

Find more details on these events and more events taking place on Fort Buchanan in this edition of the El Morro and the DFMWR’s monthly magazine and join us as “Juntas lo haremos lograr mucho.”

I also want to take this opportunity to remind Team 76 that February is the month we celebrate Black History as African American’s have played a vital role in the history of our Nation and our Army since the American Revolution. Their patriotism, loyalty

and leadership, coupled with their hard work, intellect and artistic expression, have enriched the African American community and the Nation as a whole.

Black History Month is the time to also celebrate a vibrant culture that has produced great leaders and ex-ceptional people who have overcome many challenges in life, such as: Hank Aaron, Muhammad Ali, Arthur Robert Ashe, Jr. in sports; Quincy Jones, B.B. King, Diana Ross in music; Oprah Winfrey in entertainment; Maya Angelou and Alex Haley in literature; Guion Stewart Bluford, Jr. first Af-rican American in space; Gen. (Ret.) Colin L. Powell in the military; Dr. Condoleezza Rice in politics; and our Commander in Chief and 44th Presi-dent of the United States of America, President Barack Obama.

Finally, I always use every op-portunity I have to thank our service members, service member families, our civilian workforce, our contrac-tors, our educators, our interagency partners, our friends who together make Fort Buchanan a great family and a “little engine that accomplishes great deeds.”

As always, “Juntos podemos lograr mucho.” Together we can achieve more!

B

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February 2016

From the Garrison Command Sergeant Major

December 2013

Garrison CommanderCOL Michael T. Harvey

Garrison Command Sergeant MajorCSM Luis A. Rosario

Deputy Garrison CommanderLTC Joseph M. Dreksler

Deputy to the Garrison CommanderWilliam S. Leyh

Public Affairs OfficerGrissel Rosa

Command InformationJosé L. López

Mailing address-Public Affairs Office

ATTN: IMSE-BUC-PA390 Crane Loop, Suite 311

Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico 00934-4616

Story Submissions-Email to: jose.l.lopez120.civ@mail.mil

Telephone numbers(787) 707-4013/4486 Fax: (787) 707-3362

EL MORRO is an authorized publication, posted in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1.

Contents of EL MORRO are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the

U.S. Government, the Department of Defense,Department of the Army or

U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Buchanan.

EL MORRO is published monthly by the Public Affairs Office, U.S. Army Garrison.

All editorial content of EL MORRO is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the U.S. Army Garrison, Public Affairs Office. For guidance on how to submit items for publication, e-mail the

garrison Public Affairs Office.

The PAO reserves the right to edit all submissions and to determine the suitability for

inclusion in EL MORRO.

Every effort will be made to publish submissions in a timely manner. However, time,

layout, style and editorial considerations, as well as determinations for publication, are determined by

the Commander or the Public Affairs Officer.

Ash Wednesday Services at Post ChapelFebruary 10 is Ash Wednesday. An important day for many Christians, it

focuses on both our morality and our mortality. In the Old Testament people put ash on their face when they were grieving or struggling with difficult mat-ters.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent in which Christians reflect intensely on their faith in preparation for Easter. It is a time of renewal and growth, and many who had been separated from their faith recovered it during this time.

Fort Buchanan Post Chapel offers two special services in commemoration of this important day, and all are welcome.

12 p.m. -12:30 p.m. “A Service of Ashes” led by Chaplain Crawford7:30 p.m. Roman Catholic Ash Wednesday Mass with Father Guzman

Post Chapel is located at building 183 on Brook Street. For further informa-tion, please call the Religious Support Office at 787-707-4008 or 787-707-3405.

“Love is in the air”, as the song says. We show our affection for our loved ones every day, but in February we throw everything out the window to impress them during Saint Valentine’s Day.

St. Valentine’s Day began as a liturgical celebra-tion of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. Several martyrdom stories were in-vented for the various Valentines that belonged to February 14, and added to later martyrologies. Ev-

erywhere you go, facilities are adorned with red and white decorations to remind us how important this day is. If you don’t believe it, don’t buy a gift and live the consequences ever after.

As we speak about our loved ones let’s not forget their safety. As I’m running in the mornings, and throughout the day, I see individu-

als wearing headphones while exercising. AR 385-10 prohibits the use of this devices while at the installation. This action, not only reduces your awareness of the environment, but could get you seriously injured. As the standards’ barrier of the installations I always do the on the spot cor-rection. I will invite you to do the same to keep your loved ones and Fort Buchanan a safe place.

I hope you are keeping up with your new year’s resolutions. Statistics show that 78% of people don’t follow resolutions by mid-February. We still got time to make adjustments and re-engage our focus on those short/long term goals. We encourage you to take part of our daily group classes at the gym or search for the best course of action to achieve your goals. The main thing is, finish what you began and never give up. The road to success could be hilly, bumpy and curvy but the rewards at the end of the journey will be impressive. God Bless.

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February 2016

Photos by: José L. López, public affairs specialist

Fort Buchanan hosts New YearsReception with military, civic leaders

United States Army Garrison, Fort Buchanan co-hosted with the 1st Mission Support Command, the Commanders New Years’ Reception in an atmosphere of camaraderie and military tradition, Jan. 9, 2016 at the Community Club and Conference Center.

The evening event highlighted Garrison community outreach pro-grams and partnerships and the Army Reserve Soldiers throughout Puerto Rico, while providing a forum to dia-logue with agency partners and civic leaders to further develop relation-ships and establish new ones.

Entertainment was provided by a musical performance by children of a local orphanage and violinist Alejan-dro Manuel Striker.

To cap the evening, guests were treated with a surprise parranda, en-ergizing participants with traditional Puerto Rican holiday music and dance.

COL Michael T. Harvey (right), commander, United States Army Garrison Fort Buchanan, greets guests in the receiving line during Fort Buchanan’s New Years’ Reception.

COL Michael T. Harvey welcomed colleagues, partners, and guests during opening remarks.

BG Jose R. Burgos provided guests with wishes to a new year full of positive outlooks during his remarks.

By LTC Joseph M. DrekslerDeputy Garrison Commander

Violinist Alejandro Manuel Striker entertained with his musical selections.

MG (Ret,) Félix A. Santoni, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, joined other distinguished guests as they presented their toast during Fort Buchanan’s New Year Reception held at the Community Club and Conference Center. Garrison and Tenant Unit Employees led by Juan

C. García, Director of Plans, Training, Mobiliza-tion, and Security performed a parranda to en-tertain guests during the New Years’ Reception.

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February 2016

BOSS kicks off the new year with blood drive at the Community ClubPhotos and story by José L. LópezPublic Affairs Office

Andre Betancourt, Veteran, said he visited the in-stallation to do some shopping but also decided to give life with a blood donation.

Joseph Frattalone, Installation Legal Office, shared blood for a good cause.

SSG Arndrell Waters, Installation Legal Office, joins Sasha as they participated in the BOSS Blood Drive held at the Community Club.

Fort Buchanan´s community re-sponded to the call of giving during an event held Jan. 12, 2016 at the Com-munity Club and Conference Center.

Fort Buchanan Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Program co-hosted a blood drive along with Banco de Sangre de Servicios Mutuos, Inc., proving the command’s continu-ing commitment toward community outreach and partnerships.

SSG Arndrell V. Waters, BOSS president, said that he believes the Fort Buchanan community has a spirit of giving back and many have wanted to donate blood, but did not have the time. “That is why it is my intent to coordinate blood drives twice a year.” he said.

SSG Waters said that “through these community outreach events, Fort Buchanan has an opportunity to tell its story, while showing its commitment toward the well being of inside and outside communities.”

Andre Betancourt, Veteran, smiled as he observed the blood filling up the collection pack. He said while shopping here, he saw the blood drive announcement and decided to stop by to donate.

Guilliana E. Casanova, daughter of Estrella Casanova, Directorate of Fam-ily, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, said she was excited to participate by donating life. It was her birthday and her mother gave her permission to give during the event. “At one time, my grandpa was in an accident. He needed blood and I wanted to help, but my mom didn’t let me. Now I am 18, and I asked that my present would be to have the opportunity to donate in this blood drive, so here I am.” she said.

Many community members partici-pated including service members from the Navy Reserve,

Ilián Pagán lifts her arm to assist healing as she concluded her blood donation.

Guilliana E. Casanova, daughter of Estrella Ca-sanova, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, was celebrating her birthday, and said she wanted to give herself the present of experiencing a blood donation.

February 2016

6 El Morro

When: March 1 - April 18, 2016. Where: InstallationLegalOffice,Bldg.214

Byappointmentonly.

Services will be provided to Veterans, retirees and dependents.

Formoreinformation,ortosetupanappointment,call787-707-5154

Tax Center Services at FB

Fort Buchanan’s Survivor Outreach Services celebrated Three Kings Day (Dia de Tres Reyes) with Puerto Rico surviv-ing families on Jan. 5, 2016 at the Cabañas Recreational Facility.

United States Army Garrison Fort Buchanan in partnership with the 1st Mission Support Command, Army Reserve and the Puerto Rico National Guard

Operation Giveback: providing for our Surviving Family Members

BG José R. Burgos, commander, 1st Mission Support Command; CSM Harry Muñoz, command sergeant major, 1st Mission Support Command; COL Mi-chael T. Harvey, commander, United States Army Garrison Fort Buchanan, and MAJ Juan Aquino, representing the Puerto Rico Army National Guard join Fort Buchanan Garrison Survivor Outreach Services and surviving Families at the Three Kings Day Celebration, reminding them that they are an integral part of the Army and Fort Buchanan Family.

By LTC Joseph M. DrekslerDeputy Garrison Commander

honored the memory of our fallen service members and rejoiced in the bright future of their children.

Collectively, the commands presented each child with iden-tification tags stamped with the their Soldiers information and backpacks filled with school sup-plies as this was a day to honor our fallen while ensuring their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their great families will not be forgot-ten.

A National Guardsmen, dressed as one of the Three Kings, presents a backpack with gifts in-side to a surviving Family member.

Photos by: José L. López, public affairs specialist

February 2016

7El Morro

D o y ou s u s p e c t y ou r c h i ld i s a v ic t i m of t e e n d at i n g v iole nc e? D o y ou w onde r a b out w a r n i n g s i g n s? D o y ou w a nt t o k no w

w h at r e s ou r c e s a r e a v a i l a b le t o he lp pr ot e c t y ou r t e e n?

Teen dating violence includes physical, sexual, psychological/emotional violence and stalking within a current or former teen dating relationship. It can occur in person or electronically in the form of excessive texting, sexting or derogatory posts on social media sites. It’s critical that parents and peers have the courage to take action when they suspect abuse.

t ee n dat i ng v iol e nce

Warning Signs

» Your teenager’s boyfriend or girlfriend is overly jealous or possessive.

» You notice unexplained bruises or marks.

» The boyfriend or girlfriend emails or texts your teenager constantly.

» Your teenager is frequently worried about the boyfriend or girlfriend’s approval.

» Your teenager seems depressed, withdrawn or not interested in activities.

» The boyfriend or girlfriend uses social media sites to threaten or demean your teenager.

» Your teenager often makes excuses for the boyfriend or girlfriend’s behavior.

Where to get help?

» The National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit http://www.thehotline.org/.

» Loveisrespect.org – Call 866-331-9474, text “loveis” to 25222 or visit http://www.loveisrespect.org.

» Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Visit http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teen_dating_violence.html.

» The Family Advocacy Program – Find your local program through http://www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil.

» School counselors

» Start Strong – Visit http://startstrong.futureswithoutviolence.org/.

» Local or installation law enforcement – Contact law enforcement to take legal action against abusers.

Learn more about Military

OneSource’s confidential non-medical

counseling – Call 800-342-9647 or visit

www.militaryonesource.mil.

Call. 800-342-9647Click. MilitaryOneSource.mil

Connect. 24/7

Formoreinformation,callWildaDíaz,FamilyAdvocacyProgrammanager,787-707-3709.

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February 2016

Fort Buchanan upcoming events

TheEntrepreneurTrack,Boots2BusinessFebruary 2-3, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

TheCareerTechnicalTrainingTrack(CTTT)February 4-5, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

TheBenefitsDeliveryatDischarge(BDD) February 4, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

SuperBowlPartyFamilyEntertainment,Inflatables,LiveMusicFebruary 7, 4 p.m.Community Club787-707-5105

TheVABenefitsI&IIBriefingsandTransitionBriefings February 8, 8 a.m. - 4:40 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

TheDepartment ofLaborEmploymentWork-shop(DOLEW)February 9-11, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Building 511787-707-3546

FortBuchananBeautificationDayFebruary 11, 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Welcome Center, Building 152

FinancialPlanningSeminarFebruary 12, 0800-1400Building 511787-707-3546

TrafficLightPartyFebruary 12, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.Community Club787-707-5105

FebruaryAnnualValentinesDayDinnerFebruary 13, 5 p.m.Community Club (Tickets $45 / couple)787-707-3373

GeorgeWashington’sBirthdayFebruary 15

TheHigherEducation(HE)TrackFebruary 18-19, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

ServiceMemberandFamilyVABenefitsWorkshopFebruary 19 Community Club

BlackHistoryMonthCelebrationJazzNightFebruary 26 7 - 9 p.m.Community Club787-707-5105

1stMissionSupportCommandChangeofCom-mand27 February, 11 a.m.Maxie Williams Field

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February 2016

Commander’sCupGolfTournamentMarch 4Fort Buchanan Golf Club787-707-3980

The Transition Overview/Resilient TransitionMarch 4, 9 a.m. -10 a.m.Building 511787-707-3546 MilitaryOccupationCrosswalk March 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

TheBenefitsDeliveryatDischarge(BDD) March 4, 1 p.m.- 3 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

FortBuchananMentoringDayMarch 5 787-707-3865

TheVABenefitsI&IIBriefingsandTransitionBriefingsMarch 7, 8 a.m. - 4:40 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

The Department of Labor Employment Workshop(DOLEW)March 8-10, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Location is building 511787-707-3546

SOSInformationBoothMarch 9, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.Main Exchange (PX) lobby787-707-3692

FinancialPlanningSeminarMarch 11, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

*Open Base Policy in effect: For events with a “*”, valid Photo ID (Driver’s License, State / Com-monwealth ID, or passport) is required for each person age 16 and older in the vehicle.

Thecommunityisinvitedtoparticipateintheseeventsaswepartnertogethertoprovideopportunities,expandrelationships,andshowourappreciationtoallwhoservedandsupporttheUnitedStatesArmedForces.

MarchSaintPatrick’sDay10K*March 12, 5 p.m. Fitness Center787-707-3767$5 fee for personnel unaffiliated to Fort BuchananFree for all DoD military and civilian personnel

TheFederalResumeClass March 15, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.Building 511787-707-3546

KickButtsDayCampaignWalkMarch 16, 3:30 p.m.Building 1000 (CDC/SAC)787-707-3466

CYSSFunRunMarch 17, 4 p.m.Ages 4 -18Antilles High School Field787-707-3466

Sexual Assault Prevention “Got your BackTraining” 18 March 9:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Session One1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Session TwoFort Buchanan Community Club787-707-3481

Sexual Assault Prevention “Got your BackTraining” March 19, 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.Fort Buchanan Community Club787-707-3481

SexualAssaultPreventionTrainingMarch 19, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.Camp Santiago Theater787-707-3481

EasterEggHunt March 26, 10 a.m. Cabana Recreational Facility787-707-3434/3787

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February 2016

Fort Buchanan’s Directorate of Plans, Training, Security and Mobi-lization offers alternatives to arms training when it may be difficult for units to do so in the field.

The EST II provides initial and sustainment marksmanship training, static unit collective gunnery, tacti-cal training, and shoot/don’t shoot training. It supports the following three modes of training: marksman-ship, squad/fire team collective and judgmental use of force.

The system uses a variation of weapons including; 9mm pistols, M-4 carbine, M-16 rifles, M-1200 shotguns, M-240/M249 machine guns, .50 cal, M-2 machine gun, MK-19, AT-4 antitank weaponry and M-320/M-203 grenade launch-ers.

All EST training scenarios are U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) validated. It offers scenarios, such as ambush, search and destroy or rescue, or going into a town and clearing out

terrorists, like military operations on urbanized terrain.”

There are currently one 10-lane ESTII at Bldg. 511, Fort Buchanan and another 10-lane at Bldg. 222 Camp Santiago, Salinas. In accor-dance with DA Pamphlet 350-38, individuals WILL use the EST II to conduct Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction (PMI), Night Qualifica-tion and NBC Qualification and to practice record fire.

FB DPTMS provides virtual indoor rangeBy José L. LópezPublic Affairs Office

To use the EST you must be certified. Certification classes are held in Bldg. 511, the 3rd Thursday of each Month from 0800-1530. Classes will cover the proper way to conduct a training session on the EST, startup and shutdown proce-dures, tracking unit and personnel in the EST and TSC EST Policies & Procedures. For more information, and scheduling training, units can call 787-707-5699 / 3450.

Víctor López (right), training instructor, DPTMS, demonstrates garrison employees on the proper use of the EST II during a training exercise held at Bldg. 511.

February 2016

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Chaplain’s Corner

Most of us know the story of the sinking of “The Titanic,” but have you heard of the Four Chaplains? Their story, which took place on February 3, 1942, might be even more compelling.

During World War II, the United States transported supplies via ship to Great Britain. It was through this life line of ships that America supported her British allies with food and munitions. After the Japa-nese attack on Pearl Harbor and Germany’s declaration of war on the United States, all ships flying the U.S. flag became targets of German U-boats because ships now carried the Soldiers would make up the fighting force against Nazi Germany.

The 368 foot SS Dorches-ter, a former cruise ship turned troop transport, departed New York on 23 January bound for Green-land. As a cruise ship, the Dorchester carried 314 pas-sengers in luxury. As a mili-tary vessel she transported over 900 men and crew.

Among these were four newly minted Army chap-lains from four diverse faith groups: 1LT George L. Fox, who was a Methodist, 1LT Alexander D. Goode, a Reformed Jewish Rabbi, 1LT Clark V. Poling, a minister in the Reformed Church in America, and 1LT John P. Washington, a Roman Catholic priest. Each

had volunteered for military service and, along with a number of other young men, were on their way to their first assignments with the U.S. Army in Europe.

Despite best efforts by the Dorchester captain and crew, they were detected by the German Wolfpack, and at 0:55 a.m. on 3 Febru-ary, struck by a torpedo from U-223 off the coast of Newfoundland. The tor-pedo knocked out the ship’s electrical system, leaving the ship in darkness while it began to take on water.

Many men were trapped below although each of the four chaplains had managed to get to the main deck. As young officers they used their leadership abilities to calm Soldiers and help as many as they could from the dark bowels of the ship. Once on deck, they assisted the crew in preparing the life boats and getting as many as possible into them. Once the life boats were full, they continued to give out life jackets until the supply was exhausted. In a final act of courage, each chaplain re-moved his own life vest and gave it to another Soldier.

As the ship sank, the chaplains were seen to have locked arms, praying and singing the hymns of their faith. Grady Clark, a survi-vor of that horrible night, gave this testimony:

“As I swam away from the ship, I looked back. The flares had lighted everything.

The bow came up high and she slid under. The last thing I saw, the Four Chaplains were up there praying for the safety of the men. They had done everything they could. I did not see them again. They themselves did not have a chance without their life jackets.”

There are times when peo-ple of faith disagree, but in this decisive moment, these four men of faith united to declare their resiliency even in the face of death. They represent the best that the chaplain branch has or has ever had to offer: self-sacri-fice and solidarity. Not only did they save others, they inspired courage in many more. In the freezing waters, many perished, and only 230 men survived. None of the four chaplains was among them.

On December 19, 1944 each of the four chaplains was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Distin-guished Service Cross. In 1948 the postal service is-sued a stamp in their honor, and in 1988 the United States Congress designed 3 February as “Four Chaplains Day.”

We all wonder what dif-ference we can make. These men did not stand in the face of battle nor did they shoul-der a weapon, but by their singular act of courage and self-sacrifice they have in-spired generations. May each of us make similar choices when the time comes.

“The Four Chaplains”By MAJ Robert Crawford Fort Buchanan Garrison Chaplain

“George L. Fox” by U.S. Army

“Alexander D. Goode” by U.S. Army

“Clark V. Poling” by U.S. Army

“John P. Washington” by U.S. Army

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February 2016

The story of Black History Month begins in 1915, half a cen-tury after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. That September, the Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and the promi-nent minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), an organization dedi-cated to researching and

promoting achievements by black Americans and other peoples of African descent. Known today as the Association for the Study of African Ameri-can Life and History (ASALH), the group sponsored a national Negro History week in 1926, choosing the second week of Febru-ary to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The event in-spired schools and com-munities nationwide to organize local celebra-

February designated as Black History Month

GEN Roscoe Robinson Jr., (1975), Army’s First African American Four-Star General, Remembered as the Exemplar of the Combat Arms Of-ficer.

General Colin Powell (1989), first African American to hold the posi-tion of Join Chief of Staff and Sec-retary of State.

Airmen Edward M. Thomas (1945). The Tuskegee were the first African American pilots in the United States military history.

CSM Michelle S. Jones (2003), first women selected as the Class President at the U.S. Sergeant Ma-jors Academy, (Class 48) the first woman to serve as a the division CSM, and culminating as the first woman to serve as the CSM of any of the Army’s Component, Army or Reserve.

By Magda Figueroa EEO Officer

tions, establish history clubs and host perfor-mances and lectures. In the decades that fol-lowed, mayors of cities across the country began issuing yearly proclama-tions recognizing Negro History Week. By the late 1960s, thanks in part to the Civil Rights Movement and a grow-ing awareness of black identity, Negro History Week had evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses. President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized

Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected ac-complishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

The US Army Gar-rison Fort Buchanan honors the contributions of African Americans to United States history.

For more information contact the USAG, Fort Buchanan, Equal Em-ployment Opportunity Office, at 787-707-3336.

CDC: “Zika active in Puerto Rico”Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually

mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.

Zika is spread through vector Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus.

u Eliminate standing water in and around your homeu If you have a septic tank, follow these steps: Repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.u Keep mosquitoes out of your homeu Prevent mosquito bites

HelpControlMosquitoesthatSpreadDengue,Chikungunya,andZikaViruses

13El Morro

Flu Mist Vaccine is available for enrolled Family Members to the clin-ic, and DoD employees on the instal-lation to include DoDEA-A Teachers and staff.

At this moment the Rodríguez Army Health Clinic has the Flumist LAIV version available which has some restrictions.

Walk-in immunization services are available from 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Monday - Friday, except for the last Friday of the month.

Staff and family members who cannot receive the Flumist should be encouraged to receive the inactive version as soon as possible due to the current increased number of con-firmed cases in Puerto Rico through

the health insurance network phar-macies.

Some people should not get FLU-MIST LAIV immunization because of age, health conditions, or other reasons:

•have any allergies, including an allergy to eggs, or have ever had an allergic reaction to an influenza vac-cine.

•have ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (also called GBS).

•have any long-term heart, breath-ing, kidney, liver, or nervous system problems.

•have asthma or breathing prob-lems, or are a child who has had wheezing episodes.

•are pregnant or nursing.•are a child or adolescent who is

receiving aspirin or aspirin-contain-ing products.

•have a weakened immune system.•will be visiting or taking care

of someone, within the next 7 days, who requires a protected environ-ment (for example, following a bone marrow transplant).

Sometimes LAIV should be de-layed. Tell the provider if you or the person being vaccinated:

•are not feeling well. The vaccine could be delayed until you feel bet-ter.

•have gotten any other vaccines in the past 4 weeks. Live vaccines given too close together might not work as well.

•have taken influenza antiviral medication in the past 48 hours.

•have a very stuffy nose.For more information call Rodrí-

guez Army Health Clinic at 787-707-2175/787-707-2043.

RAHC has Flu vaccinations available By María CifredoOccupational Health Nurse

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February 2016

Point of contact for these briefings is Mr. Miguel Aponte-Cepeda, Retirement Services Officer, 787-707-2061.

Retirement Services Office events for February and March 2016

DepartmentoftheArmyPre-RetirementBriefing:

Feb. 2, 20168a.m.Bldg.511,FortBuchananThe information provided at the Pre-Retire-

ment briefing is designed to help Soldiers and Families prepare for retirement. Soldier will re-ceive information on retirement rights, benefits, and privileges. Whoshouldattend: Soldiers (Active, AGR,

Medical Retirement) that have attained adequate service years for retirement and those applying for Non-Regular Retirement at age 60. Soldiers are encouraged to bring their

spouseorfamilymember.

DepartmentoftheArmySurvivalBenefitPlan(SBP)Briefing:

Feb.23,20168a.m.Bldg.511,FortBuchananThis briefing will break SBP down into man-

ageable understandable blocks, to help you to make an informed decision on your individual SBP election.Whoshouldattend:Soldiers (Active duty,

AGR) that have attained adequate service years for retirement, Medical Retirement Soldiers, and those applying for Non-Regular Retirement at ages 60. Soldiers are encouraged to bring their

spouseorfamilymember.

60YearsApplicationRetirementBriefing:

Feb.23,201611a.m.Bldg.511,FortBuchananWho should attend: Retired Soldiers

(Gray Area) eligible for Non-Regular Retire-ment at ages 60. Documentstobring: Copies of DD Form

214, Discharge from Active Duty, Copies of NGB Form 22, Discharge from National Guard, AHRC Form 249-2-E, Final Discharge Order, 20 Year Letter (copy), Order of highest rank held, SF 1199A, Direct Deposit.

DepartmentoftheArmyReserveComponentSurvivalBenefit

Plan(SBP)Briefing:Mar. 2, 20168a.m.Bldg.511,FortBuchanan This briefing will break SBP down into

manageable understandable blocks and allow Soldiers to make an informed decision on in-dividual SBP election.Whoshouldattend: Reserve Soldiers who

are within 15 to 20 good years of reserve, ac-tive, or a combination of both. Soldiers are encouraged to bring their

spouseorfamilymember.

January 2016

15El Morro

The Fort Buchanan Fire Department, Fire Chief

wants you to know...

DES BlotterFor the month of December 2015

Police Department reports the following:

Mostrelevantoffensesthatoccurredduringthismonth:

u 10 Traffic Accidents reported due to improper reversing (this occurs when a driver is backing out of a parking space

and does not take precautionary measures, impacts another vehicle or an object) or negligent driving (negligent means the failure to exercise ordinary care, or is doing some act that a reasonably careful person would not do under the same or similar circumstances).u Five shoplifting at the Main Exchange (PX). This is when people don’t pay for the items by leaving the store or changing price tags.u Six Accidental Damages. This is when rocks, golf balls, shopping carts, other cars or objects hit vehicles, individuals or animals. u One Simple assault. Is an attempt to intentionally, knowingly or recklessly do bodily harm to another person. The mere act to put another person in fear of bodily injury, is enough for a simple assault.u Two Larcenies of Private Propertyu One shoplifting at AAFES stores. This is when people don’t pay for the items by leaving the store or changing price tags.u One Driving under the Influence (DUI)

TrafficViolationsforthemonth:

u 87 Central Violations Bureau (CVB Traffic Tickets) The most common violations were Unlicensed or No Vehicle Registration (When an individual is driving a motor vehicle without a driver’s license or vehicle registration in possession, expired or unauthorized), Illegal Parking (is the act of parking a motor vehicle in a restricted place or for parking in an unauthorized manner), and failure to obey traffic control device (i.e. stop sign, speeding radars)u 13 Warning Ticket (DD1408) – They are issued to military personnel and federal civilians who work on the installation. A DD1408 is not a “to pay” fine but is administrative in nature. The most common warnings were no vehicle registration or driver’s license in possession and failure to stop at the posted stop sign (run or pass the stop sign)

Entries in the DES Blotter are not necessarily adju-dicative or prosecutorial in nature and do not always involve criminal charging by a prosecutor or in a criminal court.

15El Morro

Doing laundry is most likely part of your everyday routine. But did you know how important taking care of your clothes dryer is to the safety of your home? With a few simple safety tips you can help prevent a clothes dryer fire.

FACT!The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is

failure to clean them.• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.• Keep dryers in good working order. LP Gas dryers should be inspected by a professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer.• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.

16 El Morro

February 2016

A 2004 Spetra Zenon High School graduate and San Juan, Puerto Rico na-tive is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a crew working aboard one of the world’s most advanced ballistic mis-sile submarines, USS Maryland (SSBN 738).

Seaman Eliezer Ofarrill is a logistics specialist serving aboard the Kings Bay-based boat, one of 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines.

A Navy logistics specialist is respon-sible for all the supplies of the ship.

“I like being able to get the supplies to make sure the ship can go underway,” said Ofarrill.

Measuring 560 feet long, 42 feet wide and weighing more than 16,500 tons, a nuclear-powered propulsion system helps push the ship through the water at more than 20 knots.

The Navy’s ballistic missile subma-rines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as an undetectable launch platform for intercontinental ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles if directed by the President. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls. On average, the submarines spend 77 days at sea followed by 35 days in-port for maintenance.

“We demand the highest standards from our Sailors - both professionally and personally,” said Rear Admiral Randy Crites, Commander, Submarine Group Ten in Kings Bay, Ga. “Seaman Ofarrill’s chain of command, family and our great nation take immense pride in his devotion and service to his country. The importance of our Sailors is immea-surable; people like Eliezer Ofarrill are absolutely crucial to ensuring our Ships and Submarines are operating at their

best - always mission ready, provid-ing our Nation with the greatest Navy the world has ever known. I’m so very proud he is on our team.”

Ofarrill is part of the boat’s blue crew, one of the two rotating crews, which al-low the ship to be deployed on missions more often without taxing one crew too much. A typical crew on this subma-rine is approximately 150 officers and enlisted Sailors.

Because of the stressful environment aboard submarines, personnel are ac-cepted only after rigorous testing and ob-servation. Submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly techni-cal and each crew has to be able to oper-ate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on board. Regard-less of their specialty, everyone also has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergen-cies to become “qualified in submarines”

and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.

“I like the fact that this ship has given me a new adventure,” Ofarrill said.

Although it is difficult for most people to imagine living on a submarine, challenging submarine living conditions actually build strong fellowship among the crew. The crews are highly moti-vated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of special-ized work, watches, and drills.

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Ofarrill and other Maryland sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes.

“The Navy has taught me that com-mitment is the most important thing,” Ofarrill added. “You can have good days or bad, but if you are committed, you can achieve whatever you want.”

San Juan, Puerto Rico Sailor serves aboard USS Maryland

Photo courtesy Navy Public Affairs Office

Seaman Eliezer Ofarrill is a logistics specialist serving aboard the Kings Bay-based boat, one of 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines.

By Navy Office of Community Outreach

February 2016

17El Morro 17El Morro

Washing hands as part of your lifestyleBy José L. LópezPublic Affairs Office

According to the National Health and Medical Research Council, “hand washing is considered to be the most important measure in preventing the spread of infection.”

Germs and bacteria can enter the body through direct contact with any open area of the body such as cuts in the skin, open wounds, oral intake, nose, ears or any other place that pro-vides direct access to the inside of the body. Hands are very prone to touching foreign matter, and these may uncon-sciously touch these pathways.

Hand washing avoids this, but why do some people avoid washing their hands?

Being too busy, skin irritation and inaccessible washing facilities are one of the most common reasons for not washing hands. A small amount of time dedicated to hygiene makes a enormous difference in health and disease preven-tion. Think of how much time is spent

at the doctor’s office or hospitals.When is a good time to wash hands? • Before, during, and after preparing food• Before eating food• Before and after caring for someone who is sick• Before and after treating a cut or wound• After using the toilet• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste• After handling pet food or pet treats• After touching garbageWhat is the proper hand washing

technique? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or

cold), turn off the tap, and

apply soap.• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.Carmen Delgado, infection control

nurse, Fort Buchanan’s Rodríguez Army Health Clinic, said that “besides protecting ourselves from others, we need to protect others or even us from ourselves. Our hands are a common and dangerous source of infections. We can be transporting millions of microscopic germs to others if we do not practice good hand hygiene.”

Areasmostfrequentlymissedduringhandwashing

Areas most frequently missed

Areas less frequently missed

The illustration depicts areas that need attention while hand-washing. Finger tips are areas which may collect and transmit more bacteria during hand con-tact.

February 2016

18 El Morro

Early intervention is a system of services that helps ba-bies and toddlers with developmental needs or disabilities. Each state and US territory is mandated by law to provide early intervention services. Military families (AD, AGR, Coast Guard member) and civilians with transportation agreement, assigned to Puerto Rico receive services from the ARMY Educational and Developmental Intervention Services program (EDIS).

Early intervention focuses on helping eligible babies and toddlers learn the basic and brand-new skills that typi-cally develop during the first three years of life, such as:

physical (reaching, rolling, crawling, and walk-ing);

cognitive (thinking, learning, solving problems);

communication (talking, listening, understanding); social/emotional (playing, feeling secure and hap-

py); and self-help (eating, dressing).For some children, from birth | Sometimes it is known

from the moment a child is born that early intervention services will be essential in helping the child grow and de-velop. Often this is so for children who are diagnosed at birth with a specific condition or who experience significant

FB EDIS defines Early Interventionprematurity, very low birth weight, illness, or surgery soon after being born. Even before heading home from the hospi-tal, this child’s parents may be given a referral to their local early intervention office.

For others, because of delays in development | Some chil-dren have a relatively routine entry into the world, but may develop more slowly than others, experience setbacks, or develop in ways that seem very different from other

children. For these children, a visit with a developmental pediatrician

and a thorough evaluation may lead to an early intervention

referral.However, parents

don’t have to wait for a referral to early interven-

tion. If you think that your child is not developing at the

same pace or in the same way as most children his or her age, you may

contact the EDIS program and ask to have your child evaluated. All services provided are free of charge and offered in the child’s natural environment (home or daycare center). Remember, early intervention services provide vi-tal support so that children with developmental needs can thrive and grow.

For more information about EDIS, you can call (787) 707-2165 / 2167, look us up in Facebook, or access our websites: www.edis.army.mil or www.buchanan.army.mil/edis/home

By Maria de los A. OrtizOT/ EDIT Program Manager

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February 2016

The Soldier For Life program links Soldiers, Retirees, Veterans, and their Families to the government, non-prof-it, and for-profit resources available to them.

We’ve identified “Community” as a Center of Gravity: A Soldier who reintegrates into an actively networked community is well resourced in health, education and employment opportu-nities and will have a “soft” landing (smooth transition) and be a produc-tive member of that community. This leads to the improved success of the Soldier and Family, the betterment of the community, and improved recruit-ment for future Soldiers in order to sustain the Premier All Volunteer Army.

The Soldier Life Cycle is a con-tinuous circle of Start Strong, Serve Strong, Reintegrate Strong and Re-main Strong.

The four lines of efforts are Army, Government, Community and Infor-mation. The Soldier for Life team works at every level of the Army,

government (local, state, and national), and with communities to assist with making a smooth transition to a Sol-dier’s selected community. You and your Soldiers are “Soldiers for Life” and assistance from the Army and non-Army agencies exists nationwide both while you serve and after you serve.

The four objectives of Soldier for Life are Change the Mindset, Improve Access, Build Relationships and Main-tain the Trust.

Change the Mindset: In order to inculcate the Soldier for Life mindset across our Army Family, Soldiers and Leaders need to change the way they think. Soldiers transitioning should not be overlooked by leadership and they should not be treated like they are no longer a member of the team. “Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier…a Soldier for Life”. Leaders should educate themselves on resources available that enable Soldiers to Reintegrate Strong.

Improve the Access: We must continuously improve Soldier, Retiree,

What is the Soldier for Life Program? Veteran and Family access to employ-ment, education, and health promoting initiatives. There are organizations that offer a wide range of support for tran-sitioning Soldiers, both in the Army and outside of the Army. Leaders must inform Soldiers about these organiza-tions and, where appropriate, allow access to them.

Build Relationships: The Army and its leaders at all levels should encour-age community relationships that em-brace, support, and enable, Soldiers, Retirees, Veterans, and their Families.

Maintain Trust: Leaders must help Soldiers reintegrate successfully in order to maintain the trust of our Sol-diers in the Army and the trust of the American people in our Soldiers. You do so by enabling Army, government, and community efforts to take care of our Soldiers so they are successful af-ter their service. Maintaining this trust will sustain the Premier All Volunteer Army because the Veterans, Retirees and Soldiers will recommend service to the next generation.

GULF OF OMAN (Jan. 12, 2016) Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Oscar Gotay-vega, from Puerto Rico, gives a signal to hold the line in the fo’c’sle of the am-phibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Ryre Arciaga/Released)