Benelux Reflects on Memorial Day News

Friday, June 8, 2018 Volume 11, Issue 22

Published for members of the SHAPE/Chièvres, Brussels and Schinnen communities

Benelux News Briefs Change of Command Colonel Kurt P. Connell will re- linquish command to Col. Sean H. Kuester June 29 at 10 a.m. in front of the Headquarters Bldg. at Caserne Daumerie. Grand opening The SHAPE dog park hosts its grand opening June 15 at 2 p.m. in the 600 area. Independence Day The SHAPE/Chievres Fourth of July celebration will be held June 29 beginning at noon in the SHAPE tent. Brussels will host July 4 celebrations June 29 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the 3-Star Recreation Center. Schin- nen will celebrate Independence Day July 4 beginning at 4 p.m. at the Outdoor Recreation Center. Volunteers needed MWR is in need of volunteers to assist with the World Cup Match event - Belgium vs. England - June 28 at the SHAPE fest tent. Visit the Chièvres MWR website to sign up. Fitness instructors needed The SHAPE Sports and Fitness Center is looking for volunteer and freelance fitness instructors. Contact DSN 423-5325 for more information. Table of Contents Benelux reflects on Memorial Day News...... 2-5 The U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Color Guard stands in the heart of the Mardasson Memorial during the Memorial Inside the Gate...... 6-9 Day ceremony held in Bastogne June 2, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Julie Piron) Outside the Gate...... 10-12 See Page 4 June 8, 2018 Know before you go: Army Customs Agency outlines PCS strategies Upcoming elections It is the middle of peak PCS season, By Robert Szostek where 65% of all military moves occur. U.S. Army Customs Agency - Europe Regardless of where you are in the world, People scheduled to move to the U.S. this summer should start prepar- it is important to know there are people ing now by separating things that are banned from import and finding new and resources available to assist you with homes for them. the absentee voting process. Below are It is also a good idea to apply early for import permits on restricted items, the election dates for June to August. customs officials advise. • June 12: Maine, Nevada, North Da- “Prohibited items include meat and kota, South Carolina, Virginia meat products such as sausage, pâté • June 19: Arkansas, District of Columbia and salami, as well as plants, plant • June 26: Colorado, Maryland, Okla- products and all destructive devices,” homa, South Carolina, Utah said Tim Sellman, director of the U.S. • June 30: Texas 27th Congressional European Command’s Customs and District Special Election Border Clearance Agency. • July 17: Alabama Explosive caps, tear gas projectiles, • July 24: Georgia artillery simulators, fireworks, etc. are • August 2: Tennessee examples of destructive devices, he • August 4: Virgin Islands added. • August 7: Ohio 12th Congressional “If you’re planning on shipping fire- District Special General arms, ensure you have proof that you owned them in the States or have an • August 7: Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, import permit,” he went on. Washington Sellman also explained that other important points to remember are: • August 11: Hawaii • Owners of vehicles not made to U.S. standards have to ship them through • August 14: Connecticut, Minnesota, commercial importers registered with the Department of Transportation Vermont, Wisconsin and Environmental Protection Agency. However, vehicles more than 25 • August 21: Alaska, Wyoming; years old are exempt from this rule. • August 25: Guam • Most mopeds and motorcycles must also meet U.S. safety and pollution • August 28: Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma standards, and all vehicles must be free of dirt, insects and vegetation. People who wish to participate in these • Wine collections can only be shipped with advance approval from the elections should verify their voting status transportation office. with their unit voting assistance officers. • Endangered species items such as ivory and some furs may only be Some states require annual updates to shipped if owners can prove they were previously owned in the U.S., or voter's registration to participate with an are antiques over 100 years old. absentee ballot. For more information, • State attorneys general must approve imports of gambling devices. contact the Voting Assistance Officer These devices must be registered with the Justice Department in Wash- for USAG Benelux, at DSN 366-6192 or ington, D.C. +32(0)65-32-6192 or visit the Federal For more information, stop by your local military customs office or check Voting Assistance Program website at: out the military customs website at www.eur.army.mil/opm/customs/us- www.fvap.gov. u customs.htm. u

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The Gazette is an unofficial publication published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for members of the Commander...... Col. Kurt Connell Department of Defense. Contents of The Gazette are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of the Army or the USAG Benelux. The Gazette is a free weekly publication Public Affairs Officer.....Marie-Lise Baneton distributed via email every Thursday, except when that day is an American, Belgian or Dutch Holiday, then The Gazette is published on Wednesday. The editorial content of this publication is prepared, edited, provided, Editor...... Kristin Ellis approved and published by the USAG Benelux Public Affairs Office, Unit 21419, APO AE 09708. Telephone (0032) 068-275419/DSN 361-5419. Everything advertised in this publication will be made available for purchase, Staff Writers...... Rita Hoefnagels use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, Christophe Morel political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this Julie Piron equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher will refuse to print advertising from that Jessica Ryan source until the violation is corrected. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army. Submit content or story ideas to [email protected] by Monday at 3 p.m.

[2] June 8, 2018 Benelux community reflects on Memorial Day By Marie-Lise Baneton USAG Benelux Public Affairs During the recent Memorial Day com- memorations in Belgium and The Neth- erlands, American servicemembers of the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux and the larger U.S. military community in the garrison’s footprint stood silently at cemeteries and in Bastogne, proudly representing the United States, and those who died to preserve freedom and liberty around the world. The places where those lie are solemn and reverent, designed to pay tribute to the men and women of the United States who traveled to a foreign country to take part in two world wars and ended up making the ultimate sacrifice. In Bastogne, the Mardasson Memorial provided an equally solemn and reverent venue to honor those sacrifices. U.S. and Belgian military and civilian officials joined the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux color guard, Belgian The numbers of casualties speak for veterans and students from the American University in Brussels during the Memorial Day celebration in themselves. Overall, almost 125,000 Bastogne, June 2, 2018. . (U.S. Army Photo by Julie Piron) Americans remain in cemeteries on place to thousands of servicemembers, May 27. foreign soil. They fell in a number of including Gen. George Patton, Jr. The staffs at all cemeteries try to put different conflicts and lie in cemeteries Each site has its own story, just as a face on every Soldier. When possible, across Europe, Africa and the Pacific. each has its own layout, but they all they contact the families back home to Five American cemeteries are located share the common goal of providing hol- get their stories or even pictures and in the Benelux and are lowed grounds to pay tribute when visitors stop by their information not only a lasting me- to the thousands of Soldiers, centers, superintendents and their staff morial to the men and Sailors, Marines and Airmen members make every effort to escort women who rest here, who fell in battle and remain them to the grounds, telling individual but they are also a link in foreign land today. stories and explaining facts behind the that binds the military The people behind those construction of the cemeteries. of today to the military graves are what really makes “In all, over four million Americans of yesterday and a link the picture and though Flan- served in World War I. Amidst the hor- that binds Americans to ders Field is the smallest rors of war, more than 116,000 made Belgians and Dutch alike. in size with 368 graves, at- the ultimate sacrifice and tens of thou- In Belgium alone, there tendees of the Memorial Day sands are buried in American military are three cemeteries. ceremony there were moved cemeteries throughout Europe,” Bareihs Flanders Field contains by the significance of this explained. the remains of World War year’s event. The general went on, quoting Pvt. I casualties whereas the U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Dieter Ba- reihs, Director of Plans, Programs “This Memorial Day is es- Martin August Treptow who was one Ardennes and Henri-Cha- and Analysis for Headquarters pecially meaningful as 2018 of them. The son of German immigrants pelle military cemeteries U.S. Air Forces in Europe and marks the Centennial of the and a U.S. Soldier in World War I, he provide a resting place Air Forces Africa, pays tribute to end of World War I,” said U.S. was killed while serving in France. When to thousands of World the fallen Soldiers of World War Air Force Brig. Gen. Dieter his body was found, so was his diary, War II fallen servicemem- I, during a Memorial Day cere- Bareihs, Director of Plans, where Pvt. Treptow had inscribed the bers. The Netherlands mony at Flanders Field American Programs and Analyses for following pledge: “America must win this Cemetery on May 27, 2018. (U.S. American Cemetery and Headquarters U.S. Air Forces war. Therefore, I will work, I will save, Army Photo by Sgt. Anri Baril) Memorial in Margraten, in Europe and U.S. Air Forces I will sacrifice, I will endure, I will fight The Netherlands, is the Africa, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, cheerfully and do my utmost, as if the largest in the Benelux footprint. The as he addressed the audience at the whole issue of the struggle depended Hamm Cemetery, in the Grand-Duchy Flanders Field Memorial Day Ceremony on me alone.” of Luxembourg, provides a final resting See Page 4

[3] June 8, 2018 Garrison chaplain reflects Memorial Day commentary By Kristin Ellis By Army Staff Sgt. Antonio McNutt USAG Benelux Public Affairs USAG Benelux Military Police In the solemn moments during his trip to the Netherlands As a young man, I always wondered how I would protect American Cemetery this Memorial Day, what struck Army my family and serve my community. I always imagined Lt. Col. Kelly Porter, USAG Benelux chaplain, most was the myself being a police officer. Growing up in a single family size and formality of the ceremony. "I knew the attendance home, I understood how sacrifice was a crucial necessity was large but the big formal elements I was not expecting," to making a better life for my family. said Porter, whose great uncle's brother, Emmett Brown, is When I became of age, I was approached by an Army buried there. "Everyone there seemed to be there because recruiter. I enlisted in the U.S. Army, making the sacri- they thought it was important to remember what these ser- fice to not only protect my family but to also defend the vicemembers had done. They wanted to make it special and Constitution, my nation and the significant, and yet personalize it." sentiments of freedom that many That gratitude is evident in the adoption of the U.S. military Americans hold dearly. gravesites by Dutch families who care for and visit them. Standing in the military memo- This practice began at Margraten - the only American mili- rial cemeteries in Belgium during tary cemetery in the Netherlands - soon Memorial Day weekend, I was after the end of World War II where all proud yet humble. As I stood 8,301 graves were adopted. Each year in formation, I listened to the about 3,500 visitors attend the Memo- history and struggles endured rial Day ceremony bearing bouquets by brave Soldiers who laid down for men and women they never knew their lives so others can experi- but accept as their own. The grave of ence the freedoms of democracy. Staff Sgt. Antonio McNutt Technician Fifth Grade Emmett Brown In the end, I recognized that their was adopted by a Dutch family in 1946 sacrifice was the ultimate sacrifice. It came freely and who sent photos and letters to Porter's willingly which paved the way for a better tomorrow. Lt. Col. Kelly Porter, USAG family in Coxs Creek, Ky. In 2005, Jo and Nonetheless, I remained humble as I realized that all Benelux chaplain, at the Annie Lecroix took on the responsibility the service members standing formation with me those Margraten Memorial of caregivers and have since adopted a two days were walking in same the footsteps of the many Day ceremony May 27, second gravesite and are on a waiting brave men who came before us. They preserved an honor- 2018. (U.S. Army photo list for a third. Porter met the Lecroixs able tradition to ensure all people, no matter their origin by Maurice Kosters) at Brown's grave for the first time after or ethnicity, are still able to experience the freedoms of months of email correspondence. democracy. u "I saw those [1946] photos growing up. It always struck me: here is this family that doesn't know my family and they Cont'd from Page 3 are here caring for Emmett," Porter said. One hundred years have passed and the world has Despite having an exemption from changed but what has not changed is the commitment serving because he was a farmer, Brown of our military. “Today, the ideals these heroes defended enlisted in the Army when he was 20 and died for are being challenged in new ways. The years old. Brown was injured and later attrition warfare of one hundred years ago has been died after receiving fire during a re- replaced by terrorism, state-sponsored aggression and connaissance mission near Minden, malign influence. While the nature of war has changed Emmett Brown Germany. His mother wanted him to and the battlefield has shifted to other domains, the be buried overseas, because she didn't core values of the service men and women in whose think she could deal with the grief of a funeral in Kentucky. footsteps we follow a century later, remain constant: "It was a great service for her to have him buried here and honor, courage, selflessness,” Bareihs said. have his grave maintained," Porter explained. "These care- With Color Guard formations, honor platoons, wreath givers, they're ambassadors. They tell the story... Emmett bearers, and volunteers who help honor the memories wouldn't be known to anyone outside of his family but here of the fallen, members of the USAG Benelux community is a family halfway around the world retelling his story, what stood shoulder to shoulder, sharing those values at the he did. I think that is phenomenal. cemeteries and in Bastogne. "These cemeteries draw beauty out of tragedy, this horrible Hundreds of Belgians and Dutch joined them to ex- event. The landscape was devastated but here now are beau- press their everlasting gratitude and pride in today’s tiful grounds. It causes you to reflect and appreciate what military. u these servicemembers did. That's the beauty." u

[4] June 8, 2018

USAG1 Benelux MWR, MWB Brussels Fitness Center break ground on new track opens for 24/7 access By Kristin Ellis By Rhonda Serna USAG Benelux Public Affairs USAG Benelux Family and MWR The Brussels Fitness Center officially opened 24/7 access May 31 during a kick-off celebration. Patrons are now allowed to work out at the fitness center at any time of the day or night. Registration is required prior to being able to access the facility after hours of operation. Interested patrons must stop by the fitness center and bring their common access card, or CAC. Patrons will need to fill out a Release of Liability form. The gym staff will activate their CAC using the card reader located at the front entrance to the gym. Upon registration customers will receive a briefing of the following points: • Location of first aid kits and AED machines • Location of the light switches • Importance of the “Buddy” system • What areas of the gym will be restricted Command Sgt. Maj. Samara L. Pitre, Col. Kurt Connell, USAG Benelux com- • Location of security cameras that are linked to the mander, Lt. Col. John Vann, SHAPE Morale and Welfare Branch director, and members of the Benelux community break ground on the new field and run- Military Police desk ning track June 4, 2018 at SHAPE. (U.S. Army photo by Kristin Ellis) • Emergency phone • Securing doors when you come in and leave USAG Benelux and SHAPE broke ground on a joint project • Safety precautions if working out alone June 4 for a new synthetic turf field and running track for Patrons can register during normal operation hours the SHAPE community. Through USAG Benelux Family and Monday to Friday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Saturday and MWR, Installation Management Command has invested Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, $1.173 million dollars for this project which will be com- contact the Brussels Fitness Center at DSN 368-9667 plete by Sept. 30. or +32(0)2-717-9667. u “People frequently ask us what happens to the revenue generated by Family and MWR programs when they pay for things like rental equipment at Outdoor Recreation or services at the boarding kennel,” said Kelly Sarles, Family and MWR chief. “The answer is: it comes right back to our community in the form of projects like this.” All profits generated by Family and MWR programs world- wide go toward the Capital Purchase, Minor Construction program and get re-invested at all Army garrisons around the world. The SHAPE community and the greater Benelux community have directly benefited from this program through past projects such as the large stage used at community- wide events, equipment in auto skills, entertainment, arts and crafts, and Outdoor Recreation facilities, and a much needed renovation of the Chièvres kennel, Sarles explained. “CPMC is not the only way USAG Benelux invests in the well-being of the U.S. servicemembers, families, civilians, and our partner nations,” she said. “Family and MWR has a long history of supporting the NATO community, such as providing the SHAPE Fest Tent each year, investments in fitness equipment in the SHAPE Fitness Center, funding for U.S. language books in the SHAPE International Library, and community-wide events such as the Independence Day The Brussels Fitness Center marked 24/7 access with a ribbon-cutting celebration and Trunk or Treat.” u ceremony May 31. (Photo by Dave Coldwell) 5

[5] June 8, 2018 ALL COMMUNITIES Government Driver's License • Per the Headquarters, Department of the Army (HDQA) decision, the Army Accident Avoidance Training online is no longer required to obtain the government vehicle driver's license. For questions, call DSN 366-6603. MWR Arts and Crafts Contest • This contest recognizes the artistic talent and creativity in two experience levels: Novice and Accomplished. Entries can be submitted in one of nine categories. Participants must complete the online profile and submit photos of the artwork between midnight June 11 and 11:59 p.m. August 13 at the contest website: https://cloud.mwr.army.mil/apptrac. Find out more information and contest rules at www.armymwr.com. June 21/28 • Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP) training - The Benelux Counterintelligence team hosts TARP training at Caserne Daumerie, Bldg. 30 June 21 at 1 p.m. and at USAG Benelux in Brussels, Bldg. 3 June 28 at 1 p.m. For more information, contact the TARP training POC at [email protected]. The following are VTC-projected class. For information about and to register for VTC classes, contact: • For SHAPE: DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824 • For Brussels: DSN 368-9783 or +32 (0)2-7179783 • For Schinnen: DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)46-4437500 July 12/26 & Sep. 13/27 • Couples Communication - Offered by Army Community Service. Do you want to improve the way you communicate with your spouse? Learn how to speak differently to each other from 10 a.m. to noon. Call now to register for the class. June 14/28 & August 9/23 • Positive Parenting - Offered by Army Community Service. Learn techniques on how to teach your child to control themselves from 10 a.m. to noon. BRUSSELS COMMUNITY See also above in "All Communities." Every Monday and Thursday • Lunchtime Yoga - Relax and refresh during the work day from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brussels Fitness Center. For more information, call DSN 368-9667 or +32 (0)2-7179667. Every Tuesday • Tax Assistance - The Northern Law Center will provide U.S. federal and state income tax assistance to eligible clients on Tuesdays in Inside the Gate Inside Bldg. 4 in room 316. Services are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call DSN 423-4868 or +32 (0)65-444868. For more information on legal services and documentation needed for tax returns, visit www.usagbenelux.eur.army.mil/org-legal.html. Every Thursday and Friday • Community Movie Night - Enjoy free entertainment at the 3 Star Recreation Center starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. Every Friday • 3 Star Recreation Night - Join the Brussels community for games, cards, music and movies starting at 5 p.m. at the 3 Star Recreation Center. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Line dancing will start at 7 p.m. on the first and third Friday of the month. Karaoke will be held on the second and fourth Friday of the month starting at 6 p.m. U.S. Military, NATO, U.S. Embassy and mission cardholders are welcome. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. June 15 • Father’s Day BBQ – The 3 Star Recreation Center hosts a BBQ for fathers from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cost is $15 for adults and $7.50 for kids. Those interested can register by June 13 by calling +32 (0)2-7179822. June 16 • Father’s Day 5k Run/Walk Registration – The Father’s Day 5K will be held at the Brussels Fitness Center and is open to U.S., NATO, U.S. Embassy, and U.S. Mission ID cardholders. For additional information, call the fitness center at DSN 368-9667 or civilian +32 (0)2-7179667. Registration is required. June 18-25 • CAC/DEERS Closure - The Brussels CAC/DEERS office will be closed June 18-25. For ID card emergencies, call the SHAPE CAC/DEERS office at DSN 314-366-6294 or the Schinnen CAC/DEERS office at DSN 606-

[6] June 8, 2018 BRUSSELS COMMUNITY (cont'd) June 23 • Strong Viking – Water Edition – Brussels Fitness is organizing transportation and training sessions for this event. The Strong Viking competition costs $100 and covers the cost of race entry, transportation, and team t-shirt. June 28 • World Cup – England vs. Belgium – The 3 Star Recreation Center hosts a World Cup watch party from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The recreation center will have a cash bar and snack food for purchase. For more information and a full list of the other watch parties, visit the Brussels MWR website. SCHINNEN/BRUNSSUM COMMUNITY Tri-Border AA 12 Step Meeting • AA meeting provides a venue where members can go and talk about their recovery as well as any problems they experience along the way. If the individual who is doing the talking has built a successful recovery, then it can inspire other members. Held at the JFC Brunssum Chapel every Wednesday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information, call +31 (0)6-50416741. Every First and Third Tuesday • Open Wall Climbing - This is available at the Schinnen Climbing Wall in the Andre Bruls Fitness Center. Cost for adults is $40 for five visits or $10 for one visit. Cost for children age 12 and under is $32 for five visits or $8 for one visit. For more information, call DSN 360-7370/7560 or +31 (0)46-4437370/7560. Through Sept. 15 • Bowling Center - Kids bowl free at the Schinnen Bowling Center with a Bowling Pass. Registration is open until Sept. 15. To sign up, go to www.kidsbowlfree.com/Army. June 12 • Breakfast - Army Birthday Ball event - The U.S. Delegation in Bldg. H307 at JFC Brunssum hosts a breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Preorders are recommended and can be made at [email protected]. June 14 • Fish Fry - Army Birthday Ball event - The U.S. Delegation in Bldg. H307 at JFC Brunssum hosts a fish fry from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Preorders are recommended. To preorder contact: [email protected]. June 30 • Army Birthday Ball - A celebration of Army Heroes from WWI to present day will be held at the Van der Valk Hotel in Heerlen for an evening of dancing, dining and entertainment. Tickets are €60 and the recep- tion will begin at 6 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, call +31 (0)6 5630065 or email to

Inside the Gate Inside [email protected]. SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITY POV and GOV Orientation Classes • POV Orientation Class is conducted at SHAPE Bldg. 220 in room 104 every Tuesday at 8 a.m. to noon. Schedule an appointment in order to receive study material. GOV Orientation Class is conducted every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. U.S. and Canadian personnel must complete a POV orientation to obtain SHAPE driving license. For more information, call DSN 366-6603 or +32 (0)65-326603. Belgium Taxes • In an effort to mitigate the amount of annual Belgian tax forms received by SHAPE members and their families, the Belgium National Military Representative (NMR) is requesting all Belgium tax forms received this year be taken to their respective nation's NMR for processing. The Belgium NMR wants to collect and consolidate all tax forms and submit to their Ministry before June 30. As a result, the U.S. Community Services Center on SHAPE will not be able to process the Belgian tax forms contained in the brown envelopes. All customers who visit the center with the tax forms will be directed to deliver them to the USNMR located in SHAPE Bldg. 101. For questions, please call the USNMR at DSN 314-423-4403 or +32(0)65-44-4403. . Every First Week of the Month • Intro to Gym Machines - The SHAPE Sports and Fitness Center hosts this walk- thru Tuesday at 10 a.m. and Thursday at 6 p.m. Book an appointment at the fitness center.

[7] June 8, 2018 SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITY (cont'd) Every Monday and Wednesday • Functional Fitness (Stroller Friendly) - Join the Chièvres Fitness Center (Bldg. 20004) on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., for an adult, high-intensity, full-body workout using body weight and basic equipment followed by 30 minutes of indoor cycling. Kids are welcome. Every Tuesday • SHAPE Library Preschool Story Time - Help your little ones get a head start on early reading skills by attending the SHAPE International Library’s weekly story times. Preschool Story Time, designed for children age 3 to 6, meets every Tuesday at 4:15 p.m. in the children's room of the library. Participants will enjoy stories, finger plays, songs and lots of giggles. Story Time helps children build confidence, learn socialization skills and make friends. For more information, call DSN 324-5631 or +32(0)65-445631. • Self-Defense - Men and women over age 18 can attend this beginner-level self-defense course hosts by certified instructors from the Spanish Forces every Tuesday from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the SHAPE main gym basketball court. Registration is free. Contact [email protected]. June 8 • Karaoke Night - Free event held at the B3's Sports Bar at 10 p.m. • Summer Reading Kick-off Party - The SHAPE International Library hosts this event from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Community Activity Centre, Building 307 7010 and features face painting, popcorn, giveaways, and more. June 9 • Nutrition and Weight Training Orientation - The SHAPE Fitness Center hosts this free fitness course from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 9 • Brit Fete - From noon to 5:30 p.m. at the SHAPE Fest Tent area. This celebration will feature British ales, a military band, fish and chips, Morris dancing, the SHAPE choir, a dog show, pub games and more. June 11 • French Story Time - The SHAPE International Library hosts French story time for children ages one to three from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. and for children four and up from 4:15 to 5 p.m. This free event will feature books and crafts. June 12 • Deadlift Challenge - SHAPE Sports and Fitness hosts this 400,000 pound challenge. Participants have 30 days to lift 400k lbs. For more information, contact +32 (0) 65-445325.

Inside the Gate Inside June 13 • Meet and Greet - Newcomers are welcome at the PX food court beginning at 9:30 a.m. for coffee and information about the community. • NCO BBQ - Food, drinks, and entertainment will be offered at the SHAPE Fest Tent from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Donations are accepted. Free for NCOs and their families. June 15 • Fun Mudder - CYS hosts a Fun Mudder obstacle course to celebrate the Army's birthday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This is a family-friendly event open to children and adults. Cost is $5 for children and $10 for adults. Registration ends June 7. • Summer Party - The B3's Sports Bar hosts a summer-themed event from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. with free welcome shots from 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Entry is free. June 15-17 • Healthy Families – Healthy Pets - The Chièvres’ Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) hosts a Healthy Lifestyle Event in front of the Commissary. The theme is Healthy Families – Healthy Pets and multiple units and organizations such as AAFES, Andrews Federal Credit Union, Red Cross, Veterinary Office, and Food Inspector Office will participate in the event. The event will also feature a produce farmers market and a pet/owner lookalike contest. Shopping sprees, drawings, and other prizes will also be awarded. The festival runs Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

[8] June 8, 2018

SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITY (cont'd) June 18/19/26 • Host Nation Orientation - Learn about the community, tour a Belgian hospital, learn about Belgian customs, sample traditional Belgian cuisine, learn basic French, enjoy a cultural tour of Mons and learn about public transportation and shopping. Held Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is required. For more information, call DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824. Through June 19 • English Channel Challenge - SHAPE Sports and Fitness hosts this swimming challenge. Participants have 50 days or less to complete 31.9 miles (the exact distance of the English Channel).For more information, contact +32 (0) 65-445325. June 26 • Intermediate Driver Training Course - The Benelux Safety Office will host a driving course for Soldiers under 26-years- old at Chievres Air Base Building 105 from 1 to 4 p.m. Space is limited. This training is designed to reinforce a positive attitude toward driving, individual responsibility, correct response to routine and emergency driving situations, and sharing the road safely with other road users. To register, The city of Chièvres is holding the fourth contact the USAG Benelux Installation Safety Office at DSN annual American Festival June 16 and 17

Inside the Gate Inside 361-6114/1470 or civilian +32 (0) 68-276114/1470. near the St. Jean Chapel in Chièvres. Come June 28 celebrate this cultural exchange with our Bel- • World Cup - MWR will host a watch party of the World Cup gian neighbors and enjoy a mix of Belgian match between England and Belgium June 28 from 7:30 to and American food and drinks. The event 10 p.m. at the SHAPE Fest Tent. This match is the kick-off will feature bootcamp and American football to the U.S. Independence Day celebration June 29. Check demonstrations, music by the SHAPE Inter- the MWR website for child care information. national Band, and more! July 6 And while you're in Chièvres... make sure • Army Ball - The U.S. Army celebrates its 243rd birthday at to stop by the Commissary's Healthy Lifestyle the SHAPE ballroom from 5 to 10 p.m. Tickets are €50 per Festival June 15 to 17 at Chièvres Air Base person. Contact your unit representative for information. for a farmers market, pet contest, and fitness demonstrations. See page 8 for more details.

Upcoming Organized Trips & Tours

SHAPE Trips & Tours • London, Aug. 12-15 Serving Brussels, Chièvres and SHAPE. Call DSN 423-3884 or • Disneyland Paris, Aug. 18 +32 (0)65-443884. • Kevin Hart Comedy Tour in Antwerp, Aug. 25 • Amsterdam, June 9 • Flower Parade in Zundert, The Netherlands, Sept. 2 • Monet's House and Gardens in Giverny, France, June 16 • Heidelberg & World's Largest "Wurst" & Wine Festival • London, June 23 (SOLD OUT) in Bad Dürkheim, Germany, Sept. 15 • Bruno Mars Concert in Paris (SOLD OUT), June 30 • Trier, Germany, Oct. 13 • Luxembourg City, July 7 Schinnen Trips & Tours • Beyonce and Jay-Z Concert in Paris, July 14 Call DSN 360-7560 or +31 (0) 46-4437560. • Rotterdam with Harbor Tour, July 14 • Clay pigeon and small caliber shooting, June 23 • Dolfinarium in Harderwijk, The Netherlands, July 21 • Water Skiing and Swim Park, June 30 • Strasbourg, France, July 28 • Amsterdam, July 14 • Honfleur, France, Aug. 4 • NFL Game at Wembley Stadium, Oct. 27-29 • Paris, Aug. 11

[9] June 8, 2018 5 things to know about the World Cup

From June 14 to July 15, millions of people will watch the 2018 World Cup. Every week until the end of the competition, we will give you information about this international soccer tournament. This week, for the first part of our series, discover things you maybe don't know about the event,

By Christophe Morel USAG Benelux Public Affairs

1. It happens every four years The World Cup has a massive audience. This is the biggest and most-watched sporting event in the world. Next week, more than three billion of people around the world will follow the 64 matches of football's greatest tournament. Since 1930, the competition has been played every four years, except in 1942 and 1946, because of World War II. Four years may seem like a lengthy span of time, but organizing a World Cup requires a lot of planning and preparation for the host nation. As World Cup excitement grows, many people prepare 32 countries will participate in the event. (Courtesy photo) to follow matches on big screens with their friends What are Belgium’s chances in the 2018 World or families. Soccer is one the most popular sports in Cup? The Red Devils have a 'Golden Generation' with many countries, in Belgium and Germany for instance. bigs stars like Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De In many places, people talk about soccer and the Bruyne, Dries Mertens, and more, but they lost two national team for months, trying to find who will win years ago during the European tournament. the competition. 4. The Netherlands and Italy will miss the event Sometimes, soccer can cause strong emotions. In Belgium and Germany will go to Russia, the Neth- Belgium, many fans are angry because the coach erlands will not. didn’t select Radja Nainggolan, a very popular player. Despite being finalists in 2010 and bronze medal- 2.There are 12 stadiums across 11 cities in Russia ists in 2014, they had a very bad qualifying campaign. After South Africa in 2010 and Brazil four years ago, Italy (“Squadra Azzura”), four time champtions, will Russia will host the 2018 World Cup. England, Spain- also miss the tournament. The last time “Squadra Az-

Outside the Gate Outside Portugal and the Netherlands-Belgium also lobbied zura” missed a World Cup was in 1958. The absence to host the event. of both Italy and the Netherlands is considered the The tournament will be spread across the huge biggest loss for the 2018 World Cup. country of Russia. There will be 12 stadiums across The USA failed to qualify too, along with Ghana, 11 cities. The biggest stadium will be the Luzhniki Sta- Cameroun, Wales, Scotland, Austria, Czech Republic, dium in Moscow. The other venues are the Kaliningrad Ukraine, Turkey, Norway, and more. Stadium, Volgograd Stadium, Fisht Stadium, Kazan 5. Don’t miss the opening ceremony Arena, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Samara Stadium, The opening ceremony will start June 14 at 4:30 Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Spartak Stadium, Saint Pe- p.m., before the first match between Russia and Saudi tersburg Stadium and Saransk Stadium. Arabia at 5 p.m. June 15, there will be a big game Qatar will host the World Cup finals in 2022. between Spain and Portugal at 8 p.m. 3. 32 teams will participate Most of the time (except June 14, 25, 26, 27 and Thirty-two teams will participate in the World Cup. 28), there will be three matches per day at 2 p.m., 5 There will be Russia, the host team, and 31 teams p.m., and 8 p.m. during the group stage, before the determined through qualifying competitions. Iceland knockout stage. and Panama will compete for the first time. Next week, we will tell you were you can see matches Germany won the competition four years ago, and on big screens in the Benelux, inside and outside is one of the two biggest favourites along with Brazil. the gate. Other favourites are Spain, France, Argentina, Belgium, The first match of Germany against Mexico will start and England. Outsiders include Portugal (European Sunday at 5 p.m., and Belgium will play its first match Champions 2016), Columbia, Nigeria, Croatia, and Monday at 5 p.m. against Panama (all the kick-off Uruguay. times are in local time). u

[10] OutsideOutside thethe GateGat June 9 June 8-10 2 Through Sept. June 16-17 June 14 June 10 Read about events nearChièvres,SHAPEandBrussels. • • • • • • • • • •

Flea Market inSoignies - is €10.p.m. Entry on de Merodedreef. Open from 8:30a.m. to 6 car meeting Merode heldatthebeautiful Castle Westerlo in Coppa Classic - events. fee. For moreinformation, www.boussu.be/ visit Place, Rue and Rue Dorzée Neuve. No entrance duringwill perform the weekend. Held on Grand 100 booths from 6a.m. to 6p.m. Many artists to 10 p.m., and another one Saturday featuring market featuring 150 booths Friday from 2p.m. "Braderie" in Boussu - The will be a night flea €16.90 for (€15.90 children purchased if online). adults on site (€21.90 if purchased online) and Open from 10 is €22.90 for a.m. to 6p.m. Entry at Brussels Expo - Hall 2on Place de Belgique. television series Star Wars: TheClone Wars. Held spans all six Star Wars movies and the ongoing are yoursof artwork to discover. The collection hundred costumes,props, models,andpieces Two WarsStar Identities Exhibition inBrussels - Held on Place de Thimougies. No entrance fee. shows, castles,dance,foot, bouncy andmore. Sunday, market, there will be a craft concerts, procession andfireworks endtheday. will On Atorchlightlocal products, exhibitions andconcerts. Thimougies in TournaiArt's Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. No entrance fee. Grand-Place to display their work and products. all themarkets bepresentatthe will Brussels in "Market Markets" the of -Traders Brussels in from to 6 p.m. from RueDeparts from 1 deBasècles, a.m. 8 Volksmarch 5,10, inBlaton for 15or 20km 6 p.m. from RueDeparts de Lens, 78from 8a.m. to Volksmarch 5,10, for inCasteau 15or 20km a.m. to 3 p.m. Rue René Declercq featuring 300booths from 6 Flea Market in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre - Held on No entrance fee. cosmetic products. Open from 11 a.m. to 6p.m. in denim, the making of natural household and trendy setting, a wardrobe for women completely auniqueoffer beautyexperience anurbanand in toare coming thePlaceSainte-Catherine and MarketLifestyle inBrussels - Lifestyle trucks featuring 80 booths from noon to 8 p.m.

Held on Rue de Cognebeau A classic andantique Aclassic - Saturday, discover [11]

June 10 June 9-10 June 9 June 8-10 Through June 10 the Netherlands unless otherwise indicated).the Netherlands unlessotherwise Read aboutevents nearBrunssumandSchinnen (in • • • • • • • • •

art marketart and weekly market. market,a combination of international culinary p.m. The Marina Market (GE) held 11from a.m. to 6 Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. entrance fee. Market There will be also an Art midnight, and Sunday from noon to 5p.m. No center of the city. Open Saturday from 2 p.m. to and on the squares of the Jeker in the Quarter Jazz Festival –Held the streets in inMaastricht more information, https://bunkerdag.nl/nl. visit and €3 for children age 11 and younger. For Entrance (one for all locations) is €6for adults, Wall canbevisited. Openfrom 11 a.m.to p.m. 5 of the Atlantic objects all part about 30fortified Fromdoors. to theDutchislands DenHelder, pillboxes along the Dutch coastline open their “Bunkerdag” -Several objects and fortified No entrance fee. along the canals and in the center of the town. Pirates Choir Festival, and more. Held old crafts, and aShanty- historic shipsandboats,concerts, FestivalCanal Meppel in from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. No entrance fee. Saturday from 2p.m. to midnight, and Sunday 17. OpenFriday from p.m.to 5:30 midnight, Held at Imkersparkentertainment. on Keercamp, luxurious wines, all kind of activities, and live “Bon Appetito” in Houten –There will be food, p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 4p.m. to 11 delicacies, pastries, and more. Open Friday from The event has a large selection of wines, culinary Gourmet Fest Culinara in Geilenkirchen (GE) is €15.to 7 p.m. Entry estate on Hoofdstraat, 89. Open from 11 a.m. and more inthe stylishdecor of the Sparrendaal exclusive collections of jewels, watches, silver, jewelers, goldsmiths andothers willpresent their “Het Juweel” inDriebergen-Rijsenburg -Several to 6 p.m. No entrance fee. from 10 a.m.to p.m.,andSunday 6 from p.m. 1 food,music, andmore.OpenFriday andSaturday beshows,will QueenRoses, ofMiss election Festival of Roses inBad Honnef (GE) –There Saturday andSunday from 10 a.m.to midnight. Thursday and Friday from 6p.m.to 11:30 p.m.,and with music,filled culture, and festivities. Open “Aaltjesdagen” Fest in Harderwijk on Johannes-Corputius-Platz is Duisburg in - With boat-shows, -With - Four days June 8,2018

Outside the Gate You may experience somedelays whiledrivinginBelgiumthisseason.Road construction projects are occurring throughout thecountryandmay result Please be cautious and patient while driving at all times. If you havePlease becautiousand patient whiledrivingat questions orwould alltimes. If in temporary laneclosures androad congestion. We willprovide regular like toreport otherhighway construction sitesandroad closures, pleaseemailtheU.S. updates toensure that thecommunity isinformed andprepared. the public transportation totheirdestination. may park theircarat thetwo parking areas around Grand Bigard andthentake to 6a.m.DuringJulyandAugust,theLeopoldIITunnel willbeclosed. Drivers Brussels: The LeopoldIITunnel isnowblocked Sunday toThursday from 10p.m. both directions. until July6.Duringthisperiod,you willbeable todrive onRue delaHallein thestreet andRue duHautboiswillbeblockedsection between thebottomof Mons (Center): reduced to50km/h.Work isscheduled tobecompletedby mid-July willbe traffic Brussels.Obourg The andThieu, speedof inthedirection of Obourg-Thieu (E42-E19/A7): ramps are scheduled to becompleted access #2ontheA76direction toBeek-Schinnen. The new A76onandoff should follow theyellow signsdirecting themtoexit #2Geleen-Beekand then 70kmperhouruntilJan.31,2019.Traffic highway andaspeedrestriction of the thehardclosed. This shoulderonboth sidesof results intheclosure of (Highway Heerlen-Geleen), exit Schinnen #4from Heerlen towards Geleenis Schinnen (A76): the end of theyear the endof A12, theLeopoldIIITunnel andtheE411.Work isscheduled tobecompletedby who travel toBrussels from theringare asked tousesecondaryroutes viathe directions andintheReyers-Meiser theE40.Drivers Tunnel inthedirection of Brussels: Road construction began intheReyers-Montgomery Tunnel inboth completed by August2018 willbemaintained.Workboth directions. traffic isscheduled tobe Two lanesof and Daussoulxhasbeenunderway sinceAugust.This project involves 15kmin Andenne/Daussoux (E42/A15): Highway Construction [email protected]. and RoadClosures Army Garrison Benelux Public Affairs Office atArmy Garrison BeneluxPublic Affairs Office Road constructoin began June4onRue d’Havré inMons. The Due to the construction of the new on and off ramps onA76 thenew onandoff Due totheconstruction of . . Road construction willbegin June11between [12] The three-way yard project between Andenne this fall.

. June 8,2018