The document provides a year-end review of notable events that occurred at Fort Meade in 2012. It summarizes the year with stories and photos across 12 months. Some highlights included the closing of the Courses, visits from senior leaders, storms that caused damage, and an award-winning talent show. It was a memorable year for the installation.
This document provides a summary of training activities for the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site from February 19-23. It discusses the arrival of soldiers and staging of vehicles, mandatory classes received, and various training that will take place over the next month including offensive and defensive maneuvers and stability operations. It also highlights certification training on Raven drones and changes of command that occurred across the brigade.
- The document is the February 16, 2012 issue of Soundoff!, the community newspaper for Fort Meade.
- It includes articles about the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Honor Guard, an Army fellow serving on Congressional duty, and a karate competition.
- It also previews upcoming community events like karaoke night and a bowling event for Exceptional Family Member Program families.
- In his Commander's Column, Col. Edward Rothstein discusses a recent education town hall meeting and encourages more parent involvement in schools. He also discusses an upcoming cleanup project and promoting transparency.
The document is a newspaper article from the Fort Meade community newspaper announcing events for National Social Workers Month and discussing other community issues and events happening in April. It includes a story about a new bullying support group being formed on post in response to concerns about bullying on school buses. It also mentions the cancellation of the reopening celebration for recently renovated youth sports fields due to wet weather.
This document is the September 20, 2012 edition of Soundoff, a newspaper published for the Fort Meade community. The main stories include local service members and first responders participating in a "Hometown Heroes Day" event at a football game, the start of a civilian wellness program, and service members volunteering to repair a historic cemetery. The commander's column discusses the upcoming Army suicide prevention stand-down day and emphasizes the importance of building resiliency and knowing the support services available to assist with total well-being.
The U.S. Army Field Band led the Presidential Inaugural Parade down Pennsylvania Avenue following the inauguration of President Obama and Vice President Biden on January 21. The Field Band has traditionally led the first division of the Inaugural Parade. The Inaugural Parade has been a tradition since Thomas Jefferson's second inauguration in 1805. Additionally, the article provides brief summaries of other stories, including the opening of a new USO center on post, construction projects on post that may impact parking, and two new additions to the post's off-limits establishments list.
The document summarizes a speech given by retired Gen. George W. Casey to the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade's winter Family Readiness Group Leadership Training. Some key points from Gen. Casey's speech:
- He discussed the impact of current international conflicts on the Army's future and the importance of leadership and resiliency.
- Gen. Casey noted a National Intelligence Council report on future global trends and challenges facing the country.
- The U.S. is still at war in a long-term ideological struggle since 9/11. Progress has been made but turmoil continues.
- Strong leadership requires being physically, mentally and emotionally fit with good character to do the right thing when times are
The Freedom Inn dining facility at Fort Meade is preparing to compete for the Philip A. Connelly Award for Excellence in Army Food Service. The award recognizes excellence in food service. The Freedom Inn was nominated to represent the Northeast Region and will be one of seven dining facilities competing worldwide. It will be evaluated by judges on November 8th. The award is named after a former president of the International Food Service Executives Association.
The document summarizes the agenda and discussions from the May 31, 2012 Fort Meade Community Council meeting. Key topics included upcoming community events in June, July and August; facility and program updates from the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation; and construction, infrastructure and sustainability projects from the Directorate of Public Works. The Religious Support Office, AAFES, USO and Picerne Military Housing representatives also provided updates.
This document provides a summary of training activities for the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site from February 19-23. It discusses the arrival of soldiers and staging of vehicles, mandatory classes received, and various training that will take place over the next month including offensive and defensive maneuvers and stability operations. It also highlights certification training on Raven drones and changes of command that occurred across the brigade.
- The document is the February 16, 2012 issue of Soundoff!, the community newspaper for Fort Meade.
- It includes articles about the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Honor Guard, an Army fellow serving on Congressional duty, and a karate competition.
- It also previews upcoming community events like karaoke night and a bowling event for Exceptional Family Member Program families.
- In his Commander's Column, Col. Edward Rothstein discusses a recent education town hall meeting and encourages more parent involvement in schools. He also discusses an upcoming cleanup project and promoting transparency.
The document is a newspaper article from the Fort Meade community newspaper announcing events for National Social Workers Month and discussing other community issues and events happening in April. It includes a story about a new bullying support group being formed on post in response to concerns about bullying on school buses. It also mentions the cancellation of the reopening celebration for recently renovated youth sports fields due to wet weather.
This document is the September 20, 2012 edition of Soundoff, a newspaper published for the Fort Meade community. The main stories include local service members and first responders participating in a "Hometown Heroes Day" event at a football game, the start of a civilian wellness program, and service members volunteering to repair a historic cemetery. The commander's column discusses the upcoming Army suicide prevention stand-down day and emphasizes the importance of building resiliency and knowing the support services available to assist with total well-being.
The U.S. Army Field Band led the Presidential Inaugural Parade down Pennsylvania Avenue following the inauguration of President Obama and Vice President Biden on January 21. The Field Band has traditionally led the first division of the Inaugural Parade. The Inaugural Parade has been a tradition since Thomas Jefferson's second inauguration in 1805. Additionally, the article provides brief summaries of other stories, including the opening of a new USO center on post, construction projects on post that may impact parking, and two new additions to the post's off-limits establishments list.
The document summarizes a speech given by retired Gen. George W. Casey to the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade's winter Family Readiness Group Leadership Training. Some key points from Gen. Casey's speech:
- He discussed the impact of current international conflicts on the Army's future and the importance of leadership and resiliency.
- Gen. Casey noted a National Intelligence Council report on future global trends and challenges facing the country.
- The U.S. is still at war in a long-term ideological struggle since 9/11. Progress has been made but turmoil continues.
- Strong leadership requires being physically, mentally and emotionally fit with good character to do the right thing when times are
The Freedom Inn dining facility at Fort Meade is preparing to compete for the Philip A. Connelly Award for Excellence in Army Food Service. The award recognizes excellence in food service. The Freedom Inn was nominated to represent the Northeast Region and will be one of seven dining facilities competing worldwide. It will be evaluated by judges on November 8th. The award is named after a former president of the International Food Service Executives Association.
The document summarizes the agenda and discussions from the May 31, 2012 Fort Meade Community Council meeting. Key topics included upcoming community events in June, July and August; facility and program updates from the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation; and construction, infrastructure and sustainability projects from the Directorate of Public Works. The Religious Support Office, AAFES, USO and Picerne Military Housing representatives also provided updates.
The document summarizes upcoming events at Fort Meade including a Ramadan observance, farmers' market, dinner dance, and jazz concert. It also previews stories about local youth excelling in track and field and a book featuring stories of female service members. The garrison commander's column expresses his leadership philosophy of caring for employees and communicating decisions to motivate the workforce.
The document summarizes safety tips and statistics about fireworks-related injuries to encourage safe celebrations of Independence Day. Fort Meade's annual "Red, White and Blue Celebration" will be held at McGlachlin Parade Field from 4-10 PM with rides, food vendors and a fireworks show at 9:30 PM. While fireworks are prohibited at the event, Maryland law only allows ground-based fireworks displays for personal use off-post.
This document summarizes upcoming community events at Fort Meade and discusses two organizations that support leadership development: the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club and the Fort Meade Vacation Bible School program. The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club recognizes outstanding enlisted service members, and Fort Meade will host its first induction board in August. The Vacation Bible School program is seeking adult volunteers to supervise children during the week-long program in August. Background checks are required for all volunteers.
The Fort Meade community honored 240 years of Army service at a breakfast event. The guest speaker was retired Lt. Col. Alfred Rascon, a Medal of Honor recipient for his actions in Vietnam. He recalled the day in 1966 when he risked his life under heavy fire to rescue wounded comrades. About 60 people attended the event to commemorate the Army's birthday and cut a ceremonial cake.
This document summarizes volunteer opportunities and the large volunteer corps at Fort Meade Army Base. It notes that Fort Meade has over 2,200 registered volunteers who donate an estimated $5 million in services each year. Volunteers include military members, families, civilians and youth, and support many programs on the base and in the local community. The large number of volunteers is crucial to supporting programs and services at Fort Meade.
The document summarizes an article from the Fort Meade newspaper Soundoff about the following topics:
1) Fort Meade's Army Emergency Relief campaign raised nearly $135,000, surpassing its goal of $55,000. Most of the donations came from active-duty service members.
2) The increased funds will help support Soldiers and their families during financial hardships. Donations are pooled with other installations to support wider Army and military communities.
3) The article highlights some of the top contributing units at Fort Meade and thanks the community for participating in the campaign. The fiscal year 2016 campaign will aim to increase donations by 15 percent.
The document discusses several upcoming events at Fort Meade including:
- A new camouflage pattern being released for soldiers' uniforms starting in July.
- Construction beginning on a new $10 million access control point at Rockenbach Road to improve traffic flow.
- Fort Meade's participation in the Defense Department's Healthy Base Initiative demonstration project ending this month, with various projects around the installation being evaluated.
The document summarizes upcoming events at Fort Meade from May 28 to June 10, including warehouse sales, career days, meet the author events, farmers markets, and the opening of a new AAFES exchange. It also previews summer camp beginning in June and thanks Child, Youth and School Services staff. The commander's column welcomes summer and thanks various organizations for Memorial Day events while looking forward to construction projects and events in June.
The document summarizes Fort Meade community events and news stories from May 21, 2015. It highlights National Bike to Work Day activities including an event at a local coffee shop and the opening of the new Pepper Road gate for cyclists and pedestrians. It also describes the annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration hosted by Navy Information Operations Command Maryland, which featured cultural performances, informational booths, and traditional foods from various Asian and Pacific cultures.
The document discusses upcoming events in and around Fort Meade including a community job fair, safety expo, and Memorial Day remembrance. It also features a short article about a man who visited Fort Meade to learn more about his father who was an Italian prisoner of war held there during World War II. The man believes his father was interned at Fort Meade from 1943 to 1945 and wanted to see the areas his father would have experienced.
This document provides information on upcoming events at Fort Meade including a military spouse appreciation lunch, military spouse job fair, and Patriot Pride 5/10K run. It also summarizes two stories: 1) A program manager is readying for an Air Force commission. 2) A Military Working Dog NCO won the garrison's Best Warrior competition. The document is the May 7, 2015 issue of the Fort Meade newspaper Soundoff! which includes these stories and advertisements.
The document summarizes an event at Fort Meade where a Holocaust survivor, David Bayer, spoke about his experiences. Some key details:
- Bayer, age 92, is a survivor of Auschwitz-Birkenau and now volunteers at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
- He gave a keynote speech at Fort Meade's 14th annual Holocaust Days of Remembrance observance.
- When asked how the Holocaust should be remembered, Bayer held up his fist and said "Don't just make a fist - use it. I've felt guilty all my life that I didn’t use my fist against the Germans."
- The event featured kosher food and musical
The document is the April 23, 2015 edition of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff. It includes the following articles:
- An article about Tryphena Ellis-Johnson, a resident who has lost weight and body fat over 18 months working with the Army Wellness Center by making gradual lifestyle changes such as regular walking, increased water intake, home-cooked meals, and calorie awareness.
- A notice about the Fort Meade Fire Prevention Office teaching children fire safety and the dangers of playing with fire.
- A schedule of upcoming community events at Fort Meade including a Holocaust remembrance, youth fishing rodeo, and family fun fair.
The document is an issue of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff from April 16, 2015. It includes the following articles:
- A summary of upcoming community events at Fort Meade, including Earth Day celebrations and a youth fishing rodeo.
- A story about retired military officers' wives showcasing spring fashions and Gold Star Mothers and wives sharing memories and peer support.
- The main article profiles Master Sgt. Cedric King, an Army veteran who lost both legs to an IED in Afghanistan. He spoke at Fort Meade about overcoming adversity through faith, family and focus.
The document summarizes events at Fort Meade related to Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. It describes a 3-mile run led by the Garrison Commander and a double amputee veteran to kick off SAAM observances. Over 1,700 service members from all branches participated in the run, which emphasized Fort Meade's commitment to resiliency. The article also discusses a speech given by the Adjutant General of Maryland where she shared her personal experiences with sexual abuse and harassment.
The document summarizes several upcoming community events at Fort Meade including an Easter egg hunt, Easter Sunday brunch, a sexual assault awareness run, a technology expo, and a Vietnam War veterans event. It also provides details about National Child Abuse Prevention Month and resources available through the Fort Meade Family Advocacy Program. Fort Meade service members volunteered at an event in Annapolis to welcome home and honor Maryland's Vietnam veterans for the first time since the war ended. One person was killed after attempting an unauthorized entry at a Fort Meade gate on the NSA portion of the installation by failing to obey security instructions.
The document is the March 26, 2015 edition of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff!. Key details include:
- Army leaders at Fort Meade held a listening session to discuss pending force cuts and restructuring. They noted growth is still expected at Fort Meade due to U.S. Cyber Command expansion.
- The staff writer shares a farewell message, thanking the Fort Meade community for inspiring her with their service and accomplishments.
- A Women's History Month event highlighted the accomplishments of women aviators who participated in the first national air race in 1929. The keynote speaker directed a documentary about the historic race.
The document is a newspaper called Soundoff! published for the Fort Meade community. The front page article summarizes that the Meade High Mustangs basketball team won the 4A Boys State Basketball Championship, the school's first basketball title. Upcoming community events are also listed on the front page. The newspaper contains sections for news, sports, crime watch, community, movies and classifieds.
The First Lady spoke out about mental health issues to help reduce the stigma around seeking treatment. Meade High School will perform the musical "Once Upon a Mattress" this week. The Meade basketball team is preparing for the state championship playoffs. Staff Sgt. Smith practiced qualifying with a German machine gun on the Fort Meade ranges.
The article summarizes key points from a presentation at the Army's Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program Summit about male victims of sexual assault in the military. Experts noted that about 10,800 men are sexually assaulted each year in the military compared to 8,000 women, but only 1,134 men reported the attacks, which is about 13% of assaults compared to 39% of women who reported. The experts urged the Army to reach out to male victims as well, since sexual assault is not only a crime against women, and male victims often feel additional shame due to perceptions of masculinity.
The document summarizes upcoming events at Fort Meade including a Ramadan observance, farmers' market, dinner dance, and jazz concert. It also previews stories about local youth excelling in track and field and a book featuring stories of female service members. The garrison commander's column expresses his leadership philosophy of caring for employees and communicating decisions to motivate the workforce.
The document summarizes safety tips and statistics about fireworks-related injuries to encourage safe celebrations of Independence Day. Fort Meade's annual "Red, White and Blue Celebration" will be held at McGlachlin Parade Field from 4-10 PM with rides, food vendors and a fireworks show at 9:30 PM. While fireworks are prohibited at the event, Maryland law only allows ground-based fireworks displays for personal use off-post.
This document summarizes upcoming community events at Fort Meade and discusses two organizations that support leadership development: the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club and the Fort Meade Vacation Bible School program. The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club recognizes outstanding enlisted service members, and Fort Meade will host its first induction board in August. The Vacation Bible School program is seeking adult volunteers to supervise children during the week-long program in August. Background checks are required for all volunteers.
The Fort Meade community honored 240 years of Army service at a breakfast event. The guest speaker was retired Lt. Col. Alfred Rascon, a Medal of Honor recipient for his actions in Vietnam. He recalled the day in 1966 when he risked his life under heavy fire to rescue wounded comrades. About 60 people attended the event to commemorate the Army's birthday and cut a ceremonial cake.
This document summarizes volunteer opportunities and the large volunteer corps at Fort Meade Army Base. It notes that Fort Meade has over 2,200 registered volunteers who donate an estimated $5 million in services each year. Volunteers include military members, families, civilians and youth, and support many programs on the base and in the local community. The large number of volunteers is crucial to supporting programs and services at Fort Meade.
The document summarizes an article from the Fort Meade newspaper Soundoff about the following topics:
1) Fort Meade's Army Emergency Relief campaign raised nearly $135,000, surpassing its goal of $55,000. Most of the donations came from active-duty service members.
2) The increased funds will help support Soldiers and their families during financial hardships. Donations are pooled with other installations to support wider Army and military communities.
3) The article highlights some of the top contributing units at Fort Meade and thanks the community for participating in the campaign. The fiscal year 2016 campaign will aim to increase donations by 15 percent.
The document discusses several upcoming events at Fort Meade including:
- A new camouflage pattern being released for soldiers' uniforms starting in July.
- Construction beginning on a new $10 million access control point at Rockenbach Road to improve traffic flow.
- Fort Meade's participation in the Defense Department's Healthy Base Initiative demonstration project ending this month, with various projects around the installation being evaluated.
The document summarizes upcoming events at Fort Meade from May 28 to June 10, including warehouse sales, career days, meet the author events, farmers markets, and the opening of a new AAFES exchange. It also previews summer camp beginning in June and thanks Child, Youth and School Services staff. The commander's column welcomes summer and thanks various organizations for Memorial Day events while looking forward to construction projects and events in June.
The document summarizes Fort Meade community events and news stories from May 21, 2015. It highlights National Bike to Work Day activities including an event at a local coffee shop and the opening of the new Pepper Road gate for cyclists and pedestrians. It also describes the annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration hosted by Navy Information Operations Command Maryland, which featured cultural performances, informational booths, and traditional foods from various Asian and Pacific cultures.
The document discusses upcoming events in and around Fort Meade including a community job fair, safety expo, and Memorial Day remembrance. It also features a short article about a man who visited Fort Meade to learn more about his father who was an Italian prisoner of war held there during World War II. The man believes his father was interned at Fort Meade from 1943 to 1945 and wanted to see the areas his father would have experienced.
This document provides information on upcoming events at Fort Meade including a military spouse appreciation lunch, military spouse job fair, and Patriot Pride 5/10K run. It also summarizes two stories: 1) A program manager is readying for an Air Force commission. 2) A Military Working Dog NCO won the garrison's Best Warrior competition. The document is the May 7, 2015 issue of the Fort Meade newspaper Soundoff! which includes these stories and advertisements.
The document summarizes an event at Fort Meade where a Holocaust survivor, David Bayer, spoke about his experiences. Some key details:
- Bayer, age 92, is a survivor of Auschwitz-Birkenau and now volunteers at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
- He gave a keynote speech at Fort Meade's 14th annual Holocaust Days of Remembrance observance.
- When asked how the Holocaust should be remembered, Bayer held up his fist and said "Don't just make a fist - use it. I've felt guilty all my life that I didn’t use my fist against the Germans."
- The event featured kosher food and musical
The document is the April 23, 2015 edition of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff. It includes the following articles:
- An article about Tryphena Ellis-Johnson, a resident who has lost weight and body fat over 18 months working with the Army Wellness Center by making gradual lifestyle changes such as regular walking, increased water intake, home-cooked meals, and calorie awareness.
- A notice about the Fort Meade Fire Prevention Office teaching children fire safety and the dangers of playing with fire.
- A schedule of upcoming community events at Fort Meade including a Holocaust remembrance, youth fishing rodeo, and family fun fair.
The document is an issue of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff from April 16, 2015. It includes the following articles:
- A summary of upcoming community events at Fort Meade, including Earth Day celebrations and a youth fishing rodeo.
- A story about retired military officers' wives showcasing spring fashions and Gold Star Mothers and wives sharing memories and peer support.
- The main article profiles Master Sgt. Cedric King, an Army veteran who lost both legs to an IED in Afghanistan. He spoke at Fort Meade about overcoming adversity through faith, family and focus.
The document summarizes events at Fort Meade related to Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. It describes a 3-mile run led by the Garrison Commander and a double amputee veteran to kick off SAAM observances. Over 1,700 service members from all branches participated in the run, which emphasized Fort Meade's commitment to resiliency. The article also discusses a speech given by the Adjutant General of Maryland where she shared her personal experiences with sexual abuse and harassment.
The document summarizes several upcoming community events at Fort Meade including an Easter egg hunt, Easter Sunday brunch, a sexual assault awareness run, a technology expo, and a Vietnam War veterans event. It also provides details about National Child Abuse Prevention Month and resources available through the Fort Meade Family Advocacy Program. Fort Meade service members volunteered at an event in Annapolis to welcome home and honor Maryland's Vietnam veterans for the first time since the war ended. One person was killed after attempting an unauthorized entry at a Fort Meade gate on the NSA portion of the installation by failing to obey security instructions.
The document is the March 26, 2015 edition of the Fort Meade community newspaper Soundoff!. Key details include:
- Army leaders at Fort Meade held a listening session to discuss pending force cuts and restructuring. They noted growth is still expected at Fort Meade due to U.S. Cyber Command expansion.
- The staff writer shares a farewell message, thanking the Fort Meade community for inspiring her with their service and accomplishments.
- A Women's History Month event highlighted the accomplishments of women aviators who participated in the first national air race in 1929. The keynote speaker directed a documentary about the historic race.
The document is a newspaper called Soundoff! published for the Fort Meade community. The front page article summarizes that the Meade High Mustangs basketball team won the 4A Boys State Basketball Championship, the school's first basketball title. Upcoming community events are also listed on the front page. The newspaper contains sections for news, sports, crime watch, community, movies and classifieds.
The First Lady spoke out about mental health issues to help reduce the stigma around seeking treatment. Meade High School will perform the musical "Once Upon a Mattress" this week. The Meade basketball team is preparing for the state championship playoffs. Staff Sgt. Smith practiced qualifying with a German machine gun on the Fort Meade ranges.
The article summarizes key points from a presentation at the Army's Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program Summit about male victims of sexual assault in the military. Experts noted that about 10,800 men are sexually assaulted each year in the military compared to 8,000 women, but only 1,134 men reported the attacks, which is about 13% of assaults compared to 39% of women who reported. The experts urged the Army to reach out to male victims as well, since sexual assault is not only a crime against women, and male victims often feel additional shame due to perceptions of masculinity.
2. 2012 Year in Review
2012 Year in Review
T
he following is a compilation
of stories and photos that
made news on Fort Meade
throughout the year of 2012.
From the closing of the Courses
and visits by high-profile legisla-
tors and senior military leaders
to historical storms and an award-
winning talent show, it was indeed a year to remem-
ber.
Photo by Noah Scialom
Photo by Pfc. Joshua R. Mckinney
Service members run down MacArthur Road during the Wellness and Remembrance
Joint Service Run on Sept. 21. More than 2,400 service members attended the run in
recognition of 9/11, POWS and MIAs, and to promote resiliency and wellness.
TOP RIGHT: Mercedes Drew sings “Movin’ On Up” during “Fort Meade’s Got Talent”
on Sept. 9 at McGill Training Center. The annual production won first place in the
Variety Entertainment and Talent Show category of the 2012 Army Festival of the Arts
and Recreation Program.
RIGHT: Children participate in Fort Meade’s celebration of the Army’s 237th birthday
at The Mall in Columbia on June 14.
Photo by Jen Rynda
14 SOUNDOFF! December 20, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
3. January 2012 Year in Review February
JANUARY FEBRUARY
• Lt. Gen. Carroll F. Pollett transfers • Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center
directorship of the Defense Information completes renovations to its patient ser-
System Agency to Air Force Lt. Gen. vice center and medical laboratory, and
Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr. during a ceremony addition of new operating rooms and
on Jan. 11. medical teams to accommodate the nearly
• Col. Patrick J. Mahaney Jr., com- 1,500 patients who use the facility daily.
mander of the Asymmetric Warfare • Bettina Pickett, wife of Navy Lt.
Group, breaks ground on an AWG indoor Aaron Pickett, delivers a baby girl in her
gun range behind the old World War I Potomac Place home on Feb. 7 with the
barracks on Rock Avenue on Jan. 18. help of her neighbor, Dori Welsch.
• Yolanda Clark is the new acting prin- • The 780th Military Intelligence Bri-
cipal of Meade High School, taking over gade and Meade Heights Elementary
from Daryl Kennedy, who left to serve as School sign on Feb. 14 a formal agree-
executive director of principal support for ment establishing a partnership in educa-
the Baltimore City Public Schools. tion.
• Radio talk-show host Joe Madison, • Col. Jonathan Sweet, commander of
known as the “Black Eagle,” is the guest the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade,
speaker for the annual Martin Luther breaks ground Feb. 21 on the brigade’s
King Jr. observance on Jan. 12. new headquarters, operation center and
• The Anne Arundel County Board of training facility.
Education votes Jan. 18 to approve the • Pfc. Bradley E. Manning is arraigned
construction of 12 additional classrooms Feb. 23 at Fort Meade on 22 charges,
photo by brian krista at Meade High School. including wrongfully releasing intelli-
Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein (third from right) and former Garrison • Defense Information School launches gence, theft of records and aiding the
Command Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith (second from right) join Fort Meade Soldiers its first Public Affairs Course for Interna- enemy.
for Military Appreciation at the University of Maryland’s men’s basketball game at the tional Students on Jan. 23. • JoAnne Martin, co-founder of the
Comcast Center in College Park on Feb. 21. • Renovations to the Fort Meade National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
Express, formerly the Shoppette, are com- in Baltimore, is the guest speaker for the
pleted on Jan. 28. post’s Black History Month observance
on Feb. 23.
• Meagan Chesser, 17, a senior at
Meade High School, wins first place in
the high school essay category of the
State of Maryland International Reading
Association Council’s statewide Young
Authors Contest.
photo by Sarah Pastrana
A wax figure of Dr. Dorothy Height, a
former president of the National Council
of Negro Women, stands in the foyer of
Club Meade as part of the installation’s
photo by brian krista
annual observance of Black History
Month on Feb. 23. The figurine was on
Spectators and competitors fill the room as two young fighters battle in the 2012 East Coast National Qualifier karate tournament loan from the National National Great
held Feb. 11 at McGill Training Center. About 250 of the top Taekwondo students in the region attended the event. Blacks In Wax Museum in Baltimore.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 20, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 15
4. March 2012 Year in Review April
Carson Johns,
9, of Monarch
Academy Glen
Burnie harvests
oysters at
the Oyster
Recovery
Partnership
display during
Fort Meade
Earth Day on
April 17 at
Burba Park.
photo by
Jen RYnda
photo by noah scialom
Retired Sgt. Michael Kacer, who lost his MARCH spend six weightless minutes 60 miles above • Master Sgt. Joshua E. Powell, an opera-
• Garrison officials announce the sched- Earth in a privately owned spacecraft. tional advisor for the Asymmetic Warfare
arm in an RPG attack in Afghanistan
uled closing of the Courses in May. • Twenty fifth-graders from Manor View Group, is presented the Soldier Medal during
in 2009, gives a high five of sorts to
• Maj. Savan Becker, a Space Systems offi- Elementary School win silver medals during a ceremony held March 23 at Fort Eutis, Va.,
retired Sgt. Robbie Gaupp during the final
cer and contractor at Fort Meade, is a finalist a mini-Olympic event hosted by first lady for saving the life of a South African soldier
selection held March 11 at Fort Meade for
in Space Race 2012, a Facebook-hosted com- Michelle Obama on March 13 at American during a training exercise in South Africa.
the Army team 2012 Warrior Games.
petition offering the winner the chance to University. • Six longtime employees of the the Direc-
torate of Human Resources are honored in
a retirement luncheon on March 23 at Club
Meade.
• Army Chief of Chaplains (Maj. Gen.)
Donald L. Rutherford speaks at the post’s
National Prayer Luncheon on March 28 at
Club Meade.
APRIL
• Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. begins
upgrades to the electric and gas lines in
Heritage Park, a historic section of the
installation that has the oldest infrastruc-
ture within Fort Meade housing.
• More than 250 children attend the 13th
annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 7 at the
Youth Center. Two days later, several Fort
Meade families participate in the 134th
annual White House Easter Egg Roll.
• Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center
unveils its technologically advanced surgi-
cal center after a ribbon-cutting ceremony
on April 11.
• The 902nd Military Intelligence Group
conducts a ribbon-cutting ceremony on
April 19 for its new headquarters and Army
Counterintelligence Center complex.
• Halina Silber, a Holocaust survivor
who was included on Schindler’s list, is
the guest speaker at the post’s Holocaust
Remembrance Day on April 19 at McGill
Training Center.
• Col. Thomas A. Johnson Jr. assumes
Photo by Jen Rynda leadership of the 48th Combat Support
Riley Bateman, 6, of Fort Meade, giggles while attempting to spin an oversized hula hoop during the installation’s annual Family Hospital from Col. Corinne M. Ritter on
Fun Day on April 28 outside McGill Training Center. April 21.
16 SOUNDOFF! December 20, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
5. May 2012 Year in Review June
A procession
of color guards
participate in Fort
Meade’s Memorial
Day Remembrance
and the 26th
Annual Massing of
the Colors at the
Pavilion on May 6.
Photo by Jen Rynda
MAY rial Day Remembrance ceremony and 26th
Annual Massing of the Colors on May 6
• The Directorate of Family and Morale,
at the Pavilion.
Welfare and Recreation opens a revised
Photo by Nate Pesce • During the National Security Agency’s
jogging trail on May 1 after the closing of
Riley Wharton, 12, of Fort Meade Boy Scout Troop 377, carries an American flag to be Armed Forces Week, five groups of service
the East Campus, a trail around the former
placed among other worn or tattered flags during the troop’s flag retirement ceremony members compete in the annual Super
golf course.
near the Fort Meade RV Park on June 14. Squad on Fort Meade on May 8.
• Gov. Martin O’Malley pays tribute
• The installation’s 2012 Army Emer-
to the military at the installation’s Memo-
gency Relief campaign raises $98,988 as the
fundraising effort ends May 15, collecting
123.7 percent of its $80,000 goal.
• Ten World War II-era letters written to
Fort Meade Soldiers are found on May 24
by Melwood employees in the wall frame of
Bldg. 249 on Chisolm Avenue.
• The Directorate of Emergency Services
unveils its new mobile command post nick-
named “The Beast,” a self-contained com-
munications center with cameras, satellites,
computers and radios.
JUNE
• Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F.
Chandler III meets June 7 with Soldiers and
families during a tour of the post with his
wife, Jeanne, and speaks at a town hall.
• Meade High’s first class of 49 graduating
seniors in the Homeland Security Signature
Program receive their diplomas on June 11.
• The 780th Military Intelligence Brigade
welcomes Col. Jennifer G. Buckner as its new
commander on June 15.
• Garrison Commander Col. Edward C.
Rothstein and Howard County Executive Ken
Ulman celebrate the Army’s 237th birthday
in a cake-cutting ceremony at The Mall in
Columbia on June 14.
• Lt. Col. Marion Bakalorz takes com-
mand of Headquarters Command Battalion
on June 22 from Col. Edmund Barrett.
• On June 29, a fierce storm called a
photo by noah scialom derecho whips through Fort Meade with
Graduates line up to take their seats at Meade High School’s graduation ceremony held June 11 at the Prince George’s Equestrian high winds and heavy rain, causing dam-
Center in Upper Marlboro. age to property and leaving the installation
without electricity.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 20, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 17
6. July 2012 Year in Review August
JULY
• Chaplain (Col.) Carl Rau begins
his tenure as the garrison chaplain on
July 2, replacing Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Sid
A. Taylor, who became deputy garrison
chaplain.
• Col. Danny B. N. Jaghab takes com-
mand on July 12 of the U.S. Army Medi-
cal Activity, Fort Meade, and Kimbrough
Ambulatory Care Center from Col. Leon
E. Moores.
• Lt. Col. Roseanne M. Bennett is
named the garrison’s new staff judge
advocate on July 15.
• The Fort Meade Fire and Emergency
Services is named the Department of the
Army’s Small Fire Department of the
Year on July 17.
• Col. James M. Howell III assumes
command of U.S. Army Dental Activity
during a ceremony on July 18 at Club
Meade from Col. David B. Hembree.
• Col. Yvette Hopkins takes command
of the 902nd Military Intelligence Group photo by lt. Col. j. Darrell Sides
on July 20 from Col. Andrea L. Thomp- An uprooted tree rests on a house on
son. Washington Avenue in the historic section
• The 704th Military Intelligence Bri- of Heritage Park on June 30. Winds in
gade welcomes its incoming commander, excess of 60 mph moved across the
Col. Anthony R. Hale, in a ceremony on region June 29 at around 11 p.m. and left
July 24 from Col. Karen H. Gibson. behind more than 75 downed trees and
power outages on post, the aftermath of
AUGUST the band of storms called a derecho.
• Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington,
commanding general of the Joint Force
Headquarters National Capital Region/ photo by Anthony Castellano
Military District of Washington, visits Fort for his photographs taken Aug. 15 for an art
Meade on Aug. 9. Linnington attended a exhibition at Sarasota National Cemetery Fireworks brighten the sky over McGlachlin Parade Field at Fort Meade’s annual
lunch and meeting with garrison officials in Florida. Fourth of July Celebration. An estimated 12,000 to 15,000 residents and visitors
in addition to taking a windshield tour of • Col. Michael R. Bell takes command attended the event that featured music, carnival rides, games and novelty vendors.
the installation. of Public Health Command Region-North
• Maryland photographer Greg Schaler from Col. Bradford W. Hildabrand on BELOW: A convoy of emergency vehicles makes a grand entrance at Fort Meade’s
uses Fort Meade service members as models Aug. 28. 29th annual National Night Out held Aug. 7 on McGlachlin Parade Field. The free event
featured law enforcement demonstrations, music, pony rides, laser tag, inflatables,
a zip line and food.
Farmers march
onstage during
the Missoula
Children’s
Theatre camp’s
production of
“Jack and the
Beanstalk” on
July 28 at McGill
Training Center.
More than 50
Fort Meade
youngsters
participated in
the play.
photo by nate pesce
photo by nate pesce
18 SOUNDOFF! December 20, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
7. September 2012 Year in Review October
SEPTEMBER Airmen from the
• Air Force Tech. Sgt. David Perez of U.S. Defense Information
Cyber Command competes at the Inter- School’s Air Force
national Triathlon Union’s Long Course Student Detachment
Dualthlon World Championships on Sept. reach up to secure
2 in Switzerland. As a member of Team the flag during
USA, Perez finished the competition 113th Retreat on Oct.
overall and 11th in his age group. 29 at McGlachlin
• The Fort Meade Museum transports Parade Field during
a 21-cm Morser 16 on Sept. 6 to Fort Sill, Hurricane Sandy.
Okla. The German howitzer, captured by The superstorm left
First Army in 1918 and displayed outside minimal damage on
the museum, was donated to the U.S. Army post.
Field Artillery Museum at Fort Sill. Photo by
• More than 400 Boy Scouts learn new Staff Sgt. Sean K. Harp
science, technology, engineering and math
skills during the Scouts’ first S.T.E.M. Merit
Badge Day hosted Sept. 8 by Fort Meade. BELOW: Fort Meade
• The Directorate of Family and Morale, firefighters work
Welfare and Recreation sponsors “Fort to extinguish a
Meade’s Got Talent” on Sept. 8 at McGill two-alarm fire at
Training Center. The annual talent show the Seven Oaks
drew its biggest crowd since its inception apartment complex
in 2008. in Odenton on Nov.
• Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. 7. The fire was
Rothstein and more than a dozen Soldiers the second at the
and Airmen from the Defense Information complex in six weeks.
School participate in Towson University’s
“Hometown Heroes Day” on Sept. 15 at
Johnny Unitas Stadium. DINFOS students
helped extend the National 9/11 Flag prior OCTOBER contract security guards to Department of new $26 million shopping center is scheduled
to the game, while Rothstein conducted the • The Civilian Wellness and Civilian Army security guards. to be completed in 2014.
coin toss. Fitness Program begins a pilot run on Oct. 1. • Fort Meade hosts the University System • Sarah’s House celebrates 25 years of
• First Army Division East welcomes its The program allows civilian employees to take of Maryland’s monthly meeting of the uni- providing emergency shelter and transitional
new senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. off one hour, three days a week, from work to versity presidents on Oct. 1 at the Conference housing with a reception on Oct. 19 featur-
Maj. Dennis E. Defreese, on Sept. 21. engage in an exercise or fitness program. Center, providing an opportunity for the ing Anne Arundel County Executive John
• More than 2,400 service members • Beginning Oct. 1, service members pro- installation to build a partnership with the R. Leopold and Garrison Commander Col.
participate in the three-mile Wellness and vide additional personnel at the installation’s university system. Edward C. Rothstein.
Remembrance Joint Service Run that paid five access control points, part of a mitigation • Garrison leaders join Exchange officials
tribute to 9/11 and to POWs and MIAs plan to keep the gates open while the Director- in breaking ground on the site of the new
while promoting wellness and resiliency. ate of Emergency Services transitions from Exchange during a ceremony on Oct. 16. The
• MacArthur Middle School Princi-
pal Stacy Gray signs a three-year sister
school agreement of education and cultural
exchange with the Beijing Yucai School in
China on Sept. 21. Lui Jizhong, principal
of the school in China, visited Fort Meade
with a delegation of educators.
• Eight Fort Meade firefighters respond
Sept. 30 to a two-alarm fire at the Seven
Oaks apartments in Odenton. Two dozen
apartments were evacuated, including four
occupied by Fort Meade personnel.
• Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas
J. Latter replaces former Garrison Com-
mander Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith.
Truck owner and operator Bobby Jones
helps guide a 21-cm Morser onto his
truck on Sept. 6. The Fort Meade Museum
donated the German howitzer captured
during World War I to the U.S. Army Field
Artillery Museum at Fort Sill, Okla.
photo by Brian krista photo by Joshua Kruger
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 20, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 19
8. November 2012 Year in Review December
photo by nate pesce photo by noah scialom
Nineteen-month-old Max Tjaden takes a gander at the rooster and hen that were a Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein and his wife, Audrey, hand out eggnog
part of the petting zoo at Picerne Military Housing’s “December in the City” holiday during the Thanksgiving dinner at the Freedom Inn Dining Hall attended by a record
event for residents on Dec. 1. crowd of 527 people.
NOVEMBER Fort Meade Soldiers, was the second
• The Fort Meade Religious Support fire at the complex in six weeks.
Office coordinates a designated offering, • The Freedom Inn Dining Facility is
collecting $14,770.14 for the Maryland judged Nov. 8 for the 45th annual Philip
Food Bank in response to Gov. Martin A. Connelly Award, which recognizes
O’Malley’s call to engage Marylanders excellence in food service, for the civilian
in community service projects aimed at garrison category. The Freedom Inn is
ending childhood hunger. one of only seven civilian-operated dining
• The Fort Meade Directorate of facilities in the Army, out of more than
Family and Morale, Welfare and Recre- 120, that was selected to compete.
ation is notified that the “Fort Meade’s • Fort Meade service members take
Got Talent” production held Sept. 6 on rugby players from the Australian
won first place in the Variety Entertain- Embassy in Washington, D.C., during
ment and Talent Show category of the a friendly series on Nov. 10 at Mullins
2012 Army Festival of the Arts and Field.
Recreation Program competition. • David Hatch, senior historian at
• Fort Meade service members par- the National Security Agency’s Center
ticipate in the University of Maryland’s for Cryptologic History, speaks at the
Military Appreciation Day on Nov. 3, post’s Native American Heritage Month
prior to the Terrapins football game. Air observance on Nov. 15 about the role of
Force Col. Michael Downs, commander code talkers in World Wars I and II.
of the 707th Intelligence, Surveillance photo by sarah pastrana
and Reconnaissance Group, conducted DECEMBER Ryan Maclean, 3, has his photo taken with Santa, who arrived atop a fire truck
the coin toss.
• The Fort Meade USO-Metro opens and then met with children in the gazebo during the annual Holiday Tree Lighting
• Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin visits
its new center at 8612 6th Armored Ceremony on Dec. 7 at McGlachlin Parade Field.
Manor View Elementary School on Nov.
5 as part of Operation Caring Class- Calvary Road on Dec. 5. The 2,200-
room, an education initiative adminis- square-foot facility features a nine-seat
tered by the Armed Forces Foundation. theater room, wireless computer space,
Cardin discussed Veterans Day and the snack bar, patio and the organization’s Program. • Fort Meade celebrates the holidays
sacrifices made by service members and food pantry. • Retired Washington Redskins defen- with the U.S. Army Field Band Holiday
their families. • Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joshua Strang, sive end Dexter Manely signs autographs Concert on Dec. 6 to a packed audience
• Nine Fort Meade firefighters an instructor at the Defense Information at the Exchange on Dec. 1. in the Meade High auditorium and with
respond to a two-alarm fire at Oden- School, is one of 12 photographers hon- • Jason Acuna, also known as “Wee the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on
ton’s Seven Oaks apartment complex ored Nov. 30 at the Pentagon for their Man,” screens his Christmas movie “Elf Dec. 7 on McGlachlin Parade Field that
on Nov. 7. The fire, which displaced two participation in the Arts in Embassies Man” at the Post Theater on Dec. 2. drew more than 600 people.
20 SOUNDOFF! December 20, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil