Army leadership is fully committed to taking care of its people and investing in the health and mission preparedness of Soldiers and Families. Domestic Abuse undermines that commitment.
The Army is committed to emphasizing prevention, assuring that victims of domestic abuse are protected through a combination of reporting options and multiple sources of support and intervention, and to holding offenders responsible through treatment and/or administrative action for those who continue to abuse.
"Doing Nothing" is the only wrong choice. “The Right Choice” is to do something positive to end ongoing abuse and to prevent abuse from happening in the first place. Each person can make a difference:
-- Recognize the signs of Domestic Abuse.
-- Acknowledge that interpersonal violence is always wrong.
-- Refer to the places where help is available.
-- Reach out to help.
-- Take advantage of the many Family services and programs.
-- Reach out to support victims.
-- Hold offenders accountable.
-- Do everything you can to create a climate of safety and respect.
The Family Advocacy Program on each installation is a good starting place for making the right choice.
Follow IMCOM Live at AUSA on October 5-7 at www.usarmyimcon.blogspot.com, www.facebook.com/pages/Arlington-VA/Army-IMCOM/52448796913, www.flickr.com/photos/imcom, www.imcom.army.mil/hq and www.twitter.com/armyimcom - look for the #ausa hashtags!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
October 2009 is Army Domestic Abuse Prevention Month
Friday, September 25, 2009
Gold Star Mother's Day is September 27, 2009
Every year the fourth Sunday of September honors mothers whose sons or daughters died in the line of duty. The name references the single gold star on service flags displayed in the windows of homes that have lost a son or daughter to war.
On Friday, September 25, the Army will conduct a Gold Star Mothers ceremony in the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. On Sunday, September 27, Gold Star Mothers and service representatives will lay wreaths at the Vietnam War Memorial and at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Survivor Outreach Services to Gold Star Mothers delivers a coordinated, comprehensive and standardized program across the force that meets survivors' needs with dedicated resources. Benefit coordinators, financial counselors and support coordinators address survivors' immediate and long-term needs, including long-term support throughout the grief process, support groups, information and referral services and coordinate child care.
Army mothers have shown the same determination and resiliency as Army personnel in tolerating deployments and the tragedy that war brings to some Families. The Army commemorates Gold Star Mother's Day because mothers across the nation have supported the Army; now, through this recognition and through survivor outreach programs, the Army supports them.
The Army thanks and honors the parents of Soldiers- especially Gold Star Mothers- for supporting their children's call to serve and for their sacrifice. A grateful nation remembers.
More: http://www.army.mil/-images/2009/09/25/51554/index.html
On Friday, September 25, the Army will conduct a Gold Star Mothers ceremony in the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. On Sunday, September 27, Gold Star Mothers and service representatives will lay wreaths at the Vietnam War Memorial and at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Survivor Outreach Services to Gold Star Mothers delivers a coordinated, comprehensive and standardized program across the force that meets survivors' needs with dedicated resources. Benefit coordinators, financial counselors and support coordinators address survivors' immediate and long-term needs, including long-term support throughout the grief process, support groups, information and referral services and coordinate child care.
Army mothers have shown the same determination and resiliency as Army personnel in tolerating deployments and the tragedy that war brings to some Families. The Army commemorates Gold Star Mother's Day because mothers across the nation have supported the Army; now, through this recognition and through survivor outreach programs, the Army supports them.
The Army thanks and honors the parents of Soldiers- especially Gold Star Mothers- for supporting their children's call to serve and for their sacrifice. A grateful nation remembers.
More: http://www.army.mil/-images/2009/09/25/51554/index.html
Monday, September 21, 2009
Hurricane Preparedness
Anyone living in an area frequented by hurricanes should take the following special precautions:
How to prepare for a hurricane
-- Know hurricane terminology.
-- Install permanent storm shutters or have supplies available to board up windows.
-- Install straps or clips to secure the house roof to the frame structure.
-- Get an emergency supply kit and develop a Family evacuation procedure.
-- Develop a Family communication procedure. Keep in mind that phone lines and cell phone towers may be down.
What to do if there is a hurricane
-- Listen to the radio or TV for more information and instructions.
-- Close the shutters and bring outdoor furniture inside.
-- Ensure a supply of water for household purposes.
-- Turn the refrigerator to the coldest setting and keep the door closed.
-- Turn off utilities if told to do so.
If told to evacuate:
-- NEVER ignore an evacuation order.
-- Follow the guidelines given regarding evacuation times and routes.
-- Take only essential items and an emergency kit.
-- Turn off gas, electricity and water.
-- Disconnect all appliances.
-- Do not walk in moving water.
-- Do not drive in high water. As little as 6 inches can cause a stall of loss or control.
-- Follow the designated evacuation procedure and expect a high volume of traffic.
If you are not told to evacuate:
-- Stay tuned to emergency stations on radio or TV.
-- Listen for further instructions.
-- Stay away from windows and doors by seeking shelter in a bathroom or basement.
-- Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or a neighbor’s home.
-- Do not go outside until instructed to do so, even if the storm is over and it seems calm. When the eye of the hurricane passes, it is calm for a while but does not remain that way.
What to do after a hurricane
-- Listen to news reports to make sure water supplies are not contaminated.
-- Avoid standing or moving flood waters, as they may be contaminated or deeper than expected.
-- Beware of downed power lines.
-- Avoid any roads where flood waters have receded, as they may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
-- Be extremely cautious when entering buildings and homes, as they may be structurally unsafe and there may be unseen damage.
-- Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Never use candles and other open flames indoors.
-- Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by flood water, as it can contain sewage and other contaminants.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Hispanic Heritage Month - “Embracing the Fierce Urgency of Now!”
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico declared its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18.
The Army is a member agency of the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers (NCHEPMs) and is represented on that Council by the Director for the Army's Hispanic Employment Program. The mission of the NCHEPMs is to provide information on employment and career advancement opportunities to Hispanics Americans, assist federal management officials in implementing a strategic and results-oriented Hispanic Employment Program and work to assure that Hispanics are employed equitably at all levels of the federal government.
The national theme “Embracing the Fierce Urgency of Now” is the basis upon which government and corporate Hispanic Heritage Month observances are designed and implemented.
The Army’s Diversity office is working diligently to ensure that persons of all races and backgrounds are truly represented with the Army’s makeup. They will continue to recruit the best-qualified Soldiers of all backgrounds and will ensure that every Soldier is given the opportunity and encouragement to rise to his or her highest level of ability so they can be “Army Strong!”
Hispanic Americans have made significant contributions to the American Armed Forces, with more than 40 Medal of Honor recipients dating back to the Civil War. During the Korean War, the Boriqueneers (Buccaneers) of the 65th Infantry Regiment, Puerto Rican National Guard, led the last recorded battalion-sized bayonet charge by the U.S. Army on two hills held by the Chinese 149th Division on Feb. 2, 1951. Hispanic Americans continue to serve proudly in the Armed Forces, at home and abroad, in the global war on terrorism.
To learn more about Hispanic Americans in the Army: http://www.army.mil/hispanicamericans
The Army is a member agency of the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers (NCHEPMs) and is represented on that Council by the Director for the Army's Hispanic Employment Program. The mission of the NCHEPMs is to provide information on employment and career advancement opportunities to Hispanics Americans, assist federal management officials in implementing a strategic and results-oriented Hispanic Employment Program and work to assure that Hispanics are employed equitably at all levels of the federal government.
The national theme “Embracing the Fierce Urgency of Now” is the basis upon which government and corporate Hispanic Heritage Month observances are designed and implemented.
The Army’s Diversity office is working diligently to ensure that persons of all races and backgrounds are truly represented with the Army’s makeup. They will continue to recruit the best-qualified Soldiers of all backgrounds and will ensure that every Soldier is given the opportunity and encouragement to rise to his or her highest level of ability so they can be “Army Strong!”
Hispanic Americans have made significant contributions to the American Armed Forces, with more than 40 Medal of Honor recipients dating back to the Civil War. During the Korean War, the Boriqueneers (Buccaneers) of the 65th Infantry Regiment, Puerto Rican National Guard, led the last recorded battalion-sized bayonet charge by the U.S. Army on two hills held by the Chinese 149th Division on Feb. 2, 1951. Hispanic Americans continue to serve proudly in the Armed Forces, at home and abroad, in the global war on terrorism.
To learn more about Hispanic Americans in the Army: http://www.army.mil/hispanicamericans
Monday, September 14, 2009
Army Community Covenant Reaffirmed
Leaders from the Fort Myer Military Community and Arlington County reaffirmed the Army Community Covenant on August 20, 2009.
BG Karl R. Horst, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and Military District of Washington, was in attendance, as well as COL Laura J. Richardson, FMMC garrison commander, Command SM Jefferson Varner III, FMMC command sergeant major and Army and civilian Families from across the FMMC.
The Army Community Covenant recognizes the bond that is created between Soldiers and their Families with the various communities around Army installations.
‘‘Not many communities in this country host a military base and there are far fewer where there is a long tradition of friendship and collaboration between the community within those walls and the broader community,” said Jay Fisette vice-chairman of the Arlington County board. ‘‘We are very happy this year to reaffirm the community covenant and we look forward to continuing our very good work together.”
The covenant pledges unity and commitment to support our Soldiers and Families and to improve their quality of life within their communities. The ceremony reaffirmed that special bond that Soldiers and Families hold so dear.
Story: http://www.dcmilitary.com/stories/082709/pentagram_28191.shtml; Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/imcom/
BG Karl R. Horst, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and Military District of Washington, was in attendance, as well as COL Laura J. Richardson, FMMC garrison commander, Command SM Jefferson Varner III, FMMC command sergeant major and Army and civilian Families from across the FMMC.
The Army Community Covenant recognizes the bond that is created between Soldiers and their Families with the various communities around Army installations.
‘‘Not many communities in this country host a military base and there are far fewer where there is a long tradition of friendship and collaboration between the community within those walls and the broader community,” said Jay Fisette vice-chairman of the Arlington County board. ‘‘We are very happy this year to reaffirm the community covenant and we look forward to continuing our very good work together.”
The covenant pledges unity and commitment to support our Soldiers and Families and to improve their quality of life within their communities. The ceremony reaffirmed that special bond that Soldiers and Families hold so dear.
Story: http://www.dcmilitary.com/stories/082709/pentagram_28191.shtml; Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/imcom/
Friday, September 11, 2009
Podcast with Military Health Systems
CAPT George McKenna, a public health expert on staff with JTF CAPMED, discusses novel H1N1 influenza and the vaccine to protect yourself against it: http://www.health.mil/MediaRoom/default.aspx?id=617¤tPg=1
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
September 2009 is "National Preparedness ‘Ready Army’ Month"
September marks America’s sixth “National Preparedness Month,” and IMCOM Commanding General LTG Robert Wilson has proclaimed this month “Ready Army Month” as well.
Being ready to handle emergencies is the responsibility of every Soldier and the Family, Army Civilian and contractor at IMCOM. Ready Army is the Army’s program for individual and Family preparedness. September’s observances remind us of the need for taking the basic actions of preparedness –such as building a disaster supply kit, developing a response/communication plan, and learning about the emergencies and related actions that can occur on our installations and in our communities.
Get involved in Ready Army by visiting http://www.ready.army.mil and learn about National Preparedness Month at http://www.acsim.army.mil/readyarmy.
Being ready to handle emergencies is the responsibility of every Soldier and the Family, Army Civilian and contractor at IMCOM. Ready Army is the Army’s program for individual and Family preparedness. September’s observances remind us of the need for taking the basic actions of preparedness –such as building a disaster supply kit, developing a response/communication plan, and learning about the emergencies and related actions that can occur on our installations and in our communities.
Get involved in Ready Army by visiting http://www.ready.army.mil and learn about National Preparedness Month at http://www.acsim.army.mil/readyarmy.
Friday, September 4, 2009
September is Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month in the Army – a time for Soldiers, Family members and Civilians to increase their awareness of the need to improve their physical, spiritual and behavioral health.
This year’s theme is “Improving our Soldiers’ and Families’ Health: A Healthy Force Combating High Risk Behaviors.” During September, the Army will coordinate programs that reinforce healthy living and emphasize how to recognize the signs and symptoms someone may display when considering self-harm. The month will be marked by programs and events highlighting prevention, awareness, education and training. These programs, events and training courses can be found at: http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp.
“The Army’s charter is more about holistically improving the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our Soldiers and their Families than solely focusing on suicide prevention,” explained Vice Chief of Staff GEN Peter W. Chiarelli. “If we do the first, we are convinced the second will happen.”
Knowing where to find help or information is the most important thing that a Soldier, Family member or Civilian can do to prevent suicide. Another suicide-prevention resource can be found at: www.militaryonesource.com.
Suicide Prevention Month is dedicated to help Soldiers, Families and Civilians gather all the needed information and support that they need about healthy living inside and out. The Army is dedicated to raising the awareness of these topics to ensure the safety and health of men and woman that serve the United States.
This year’s theme is “Improving our Soldiers’ and Families’ Health: A Healthy Force Combating High Risk Behaviors.” During September, the Army will coordinate programs that reinforce healthy living and emphasize how to recognize the signs and symptoms someone may display when considering self-harm. The month will be marked by programs and events highlighting prevention, awareness, education and training. These programs, events and training courses can be found at: http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp.
“The Army’s charter is more about holistically improving the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our Soldiers and their Families than solely focusing on suicide prevention,” explained Vice Chief of Staff GEN Peter W. Chiarelli. “If we do the first, we are convinced the second will happen.”
Knowing where to find help or information is the most important thing that a Soldier, Family member or Civilian can do to prevent suicide. Another suicide-prevention resource can be found at: www.militaryonesource.com.
Suicide Prevention Month is dedicated to help Soldiers, Families and Civilians gather all the needed information and support that they need about healthy living inside and out. The Army is dedicated to raising the awareness of these topics to ensure the safety and health of men and woman that serve the United States.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Defense Department to Start H1N1 Flu Vaccinations
All military personnel will be vaccinated against the H1N1 flu virus beginning in October, and the vaccine will be available to all military Family members, according to Defense Department information released today.
The H1N1 vaccination program will begin early next month, said Army Lt. Col.
(Dr.) Wayne Hachey, director of preventive medicine for Defense Department Health Affairs. The vaccine, which has been licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, will be mandatory for uniformed personnel, Hachey explained.
DoD will use its usual seasonal flu vaccine distribution chain for H1N1 vaccinations, Hachey said, noting that while the mass H1N1 vaccinations are new to the general population, vaccinating against seasonal flu is “old hat” for the Department. "We've been doing this for decades," he said. "The system is tried and true."
The department initially will receive 1 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine, and 7 million doses later in October.
It has not been determined whether one dose or two will be needed, Hachey said. "The assumption right now is that people will need two doses, 21 days apart," he said. "That may change."
FDA officials still are studying H1N1 and the vaccine, and the results should be known by the end of the month.
Guidelines for giving the H1N1 vaccine to family members will follow those established by the CDC for the general population, Hachey said. The CDC has established target groups for those at greatest risk for transmitting or being affected by the H1N1. Those groups will get the vaccine first. They include pregnant women, health-care workers, those younger than 25 or older than 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Hachey said previous plans are serving the Defense Department well. "We have been preparing for pandemic flu because of its potential impact on the mission," he said.
More: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=55698
The H1N1 vaccination program will begin early next month, said Army Lt. Col.
(Dr.) Wayne Hachey, director of preventive medicine for Defense Department Health Affairs. The vaccine, which has been licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, will be mandatory for uniformed personnel, Hachey explained.
DoD will use its usual seasonal flu vaccine distribution chain for H1N1 vaccinations, Hachey said, noting that while the mass H1N1 vaccinations are new to the general population, vaccinating against seasonal flu is “old hat” for the Department. "We've been doing this for decades," he said. "The system is tried and true."
The department initially will receive 1 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine, and 7 million doses later in October.
It has not been determined whether one dose or two will be needed, Hachey said. "The assumption right now is that people will need two doses, 21 days apart," he said. "That may change."
FDA officials still are studying H1N1 and the vaccine, and the results should be known by the end of the month.
Guidelines for giving the H1N1 vaccine to family members will follow those established by the CDC for the general population, Hachey said. The CDC has established target groups for those at greatest risk for transmitting or being affected by the H1N1. Those groups will get the vaccine first. They include pregnant women, health-care workers, those younger than 25 or older than 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Hachey said previous plans are serving the Defense Department well. "We have been preparing for pandemic flu because of its potential impact on the mission," he said.
More: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=55698
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