February changes [as of 2/14] C FUND + 1.32 percent I FUND + 2.67 percent S FUND + 1.86 percent ®

VOL. 64, NO. 7 SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF THE U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY FEBRUARY 16, 2007 Army draws up $11B wish list By Megan Scully to Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as equipment lost or damaged during CongressDaily more money to buy night-vision operations, he disclosed. devices and fix the service’s truck Meanwhile, both Army The Army will send a roughly fleet, he said. It also includes $2 Secretary Francis Harvey and $11 billion funding wish list for billion to make up shortfalls in Schoomaker told lawmakers about fiscal 2008 to Capitol Hill. It includes fiscal 2007 base closure accounts. continued readiness shortfalls in a desire for additional money for During the hearing, the four- nondeployed forces, stating the new vehicles and other gear, Army star general called the Army’s service will not be fully equipped Chief of Staff Peter Schoomaker told past statements that it will need until 2013. the House Defense Appropriations supplemental funding two years For “next-to-deploy [units], Subcommittee Feb. 9. after the end of the Iraq conflict a we’re scrambling,” Harvey said. Testifying at a budget hearing “conservative” estimate. “But we’re catching up a bit.” that turned bitterly partisan, The service actually will The Army leaders stressed Schoomaker outlined a list of continue to need billions of dollars that deployed units have adequate so-called unfunded requirements for at least three years after the training and equipment to handle -- items that did not make the cut conflict to repair and replace their missions. for inclusion in the Army’s fiscal 2008 wartime and base budgets -- that is substantially higher than Measure seeks to permanently similar requests in fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, which together totaled correct military pay inequity $12.2 billion. By Brittany R. Ballenstedt The list includes additional Govexec.com funds for the Mine Resistant Anti- Ambush Protected Vehicle, an A bill introduced last week in the Senate would allow Soldiers to Army-Marine Corps program treat combat pay, which is not taxed, as income eligible for valuable whose V-shaped hull will offer tax credits. better protection from roadside “When it comes to tax relief, our Soldiers do not deserve to be bombs, Schoomaker said. It also penalized,” said Sen. Mark Pryor, D-Ark. Viva! Las Vegas Night Feb. 23 includes more funding for aircraft The bill (S. 516) is a response to a Government Accountability survivability equipment for Army Office report [GAO-04-721R] on military compensation and its tax Karen Govern [left] and Gwenn Wallace help assemble the planes and helicopters not deployed treatment. Pryor, along with Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont. and Senate baskets for the silent auction for Viva! Las Vegas Night Feb. Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, requested 23 at 7 p.m. at the Hotel Thayer. [See story on page 6.] the report in 2003. SUZANNE SULLIVAN/WPWC GAO’s analysis found that some military personnel at the lower end of the pay scale, many of whom had served in Iraq and Afghanistan, suffered significant income losses because combat tax Contract guard change exclusions decreased their taxable incomes enough to exclude them Submitted by the Directorate from receiving other tax advantages, such as the Earned Income Tax of Emergency Services Credit for low-income workers and the Child Tax Credit. The analysis found that service members suffering from the net While many of the faces remain loss in tax benefits tend to be lower-grade enlisted or junior officers the same, you may have noticed a who spent seven months or more in combat zones during the tax year, different patch on the uniforms of are married with children and have little or no other income. Pryor the security officers performing said the tax glitch affects as many as 10,000 combat-zone soldiers, duties at West Point’s installation Retaining the majority of the with penalties as high as $4,500 for officers and $3,200 for enlisted access control points. personnel who were employed members. On Feb.1, Chenega Integrated as security officers maintains a GAO characterized the result as an “unintended consequence,” Systems, LLC of Jacksonville, Fla., highly stable guard force. Chris penalizing Soldiers serving in combat zones and consequently partnering with TW & Company, Shaw, Security Officer for the benefiting higher-earning military members who become eligible for Inc. of Silver Spring, Md., assumed Directorate of Emergency Services, a tax credit that is normally targeted to low-income workers. responsibility for providing security is the contracting officer/technical In 2004, Congress passed the Tax Relief for Americans in Combat officers to West Point. There may representative and is responsible Act, which enabled combat-serving military personnel to continue be a few new faces but the majority for the oversight and performance receiving their combat pay exclusions while having the ability to take of personnel performing duties of the contract guards. full advantage of other tax credits. That legislation, however, only have been here from the start. The Physical Security Section applied permanently to the child tax credit. The change of service providers of the DES also provides assistance The earned income tax credit provision was set to expire in was a result of the Department to the COTR with oversight and December 2006 but was extended for one more year. Pryor’s new of the Army’s re-solicitation of quality control of the guards. WOMEN’S TENNIS READY See PAY INEQUITY on page 3 contract guard contracts across the Individuals with guard related FOR AIR FORCE, page 10 continental United States. See GUARD on page 3 2 February 16, 2007 Recognizing depression and suicide prevention Commentary  Feeling hopeless, helpless,  Visiting or calling people one suicide threats. Statements like last forever. submitted by ADCO worthless, pessimistic and/or cares about “you’ll be sorry when I’m dead,” “I “People who commit suicide guilty  Making arrangements; setting can’t see any way out,” -- no matter are people who were unwilling to Each of us can help prevent  Substance abuse one’s affairs in order. how casually or jokingly said may seek help.” Not True suicide by educating ourselves  Fatigue or loss of interest in  Giving things away indicate serious suicidal feelings. Studies of suicide victims have and others about the symptoms of ordinary activities, including sex Fast Facts “Anyone who tries to kill him/ shown that more then half had depression and the warning signs  Disturbances in eating and  More people die from suicide herself must be crazy.” Not True sought medical help within six of suicide. People suffering from sleeping patterns than from homicide. Most suicidal people are not months before their deaths. depression often do not show all  Irritability, increased crying,  Suicide rates among the psychotic or insane. They may be “Talking about suicide may give symptoms or have them to the anxiety or panic attacks elderly are highest for those who upset, grief-stricken, depressed or someone the idea.” Not True same degree. If one has four or  Difficulty concentrating, are divorced or widowed. despairing, but extreme distress and You don’t give a suicidal person more symptoms for more than two remembering or making decisions  For young people 15-24 years emotional pain are not necessarily morbid ideas by talking about weeks, consulting a medical doctor  Thoughts of suicide, suicide old, suicide is the third leading signs of mental illness. suicide. The opposite is true -- or psychiatrist is recommended. plans or attempts cause of death. “If a person is determined to bringing up the subject of suicide Remember that only a medical  Persistent physical symptoms  80 percent of people that seek kill him/herself, nothing is going and discussing it openly is one of the doctor can diagnose depression. or pains that do not respond to treatment for depression are treated to stop him/her.” Not True most helpful things you can do. Any talk of suicide should be treatment successfully. Even the most severely For more info., contact taken seriously and help should be Warning Signs of Suicide Common Misconceptions depressed person has mixed Community Mental Heath sought immediately. College student  Talking about suicide The following are common feelings about death, wavering Services, 938-3441; Center for suicide is a national problem. It is Statements about misconceptions about suicide. until the very last moment between Personal Development -- [Corps the third leading cause of death hopelessness, helplessness or “People who talk about suicide wanting to live and wanting to of Cadets POC], 938-3022 or among college-age students and worthlessness won’t really do it.” Not True die. Most suicidal people do not KACH ER, 938-4004/4005/4006. is the 11th leading cause of death  Preoccupation with death Almost everyone who commits want death; they want the pain [Adapted from www.save.org] among Americans.  Suddenly happier, calmer or attempts suicide has given some to stop. The impulse to end it all, Symptoms of Depression  Loss of interest in things one clue or warning. Do not ignore however overpowering, does not  Persistent sadness cares about The members of the Sexual Assault Response and Prevention Team are Col. Jeanette McMahon, Shelley Ariosto (Garrison), Maj. Samantha Breton (USCC), Maj. Kim Kawamoto (ODIA) and Lt. Col. Robbie Williams (Dean). Community members can e-mail McMahon at Jeanette.McMahon@usma. edu for advice or to offer any recommendations on the program here. Cadets can also call the sexual assault support helpline at (845) 591- 7215. West Point Soldiers and civilians needing assistance can call (845) 938-3369.

® Lt. Gen. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an au tho rized 85 Civic Franklin L. Hagenbeck, Center Plaza publication for mem bers of the U.S. Gov ernment, PO Box 1231, Superintendent the De partment of Defense, the U.S. Army, USMA Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12602 or West Point. Lt. Col. Kent P. Cassella, The appearance of ad ver tising in this publication, Director, Public Affairs in cluding in serts and sup plements, does not con sti tute For information, call en dorsement by the De partment of De fense or the Irene D. Brown United States Military Academy of the fi rms, prod ucts (845) 437-4789 Chief, Command Info. or services ad ver tised. Everything advertised in this pub li ca tion shall be 938-8366 The Point er View ® is an unoffi cial pub li cation au tho - made available for purchase, use, or pa tron age rized by AR 360-1. Ed i tori al con tent is pre pared, edited with out regard to race, color, re li gion, sex, national Linda Mastin and pro vid ed by the Pub lic Affairs Offi ce of USMA. origin, age, marital status, phys i cal handi cap, po lit- Editor, 938-2015 The Pointer View ® is printed by the Poughkeepsie i cal af fi l i a tion, or any other nonmerit factor of the Jim Fox Journal, a pri vate fi rm in no way connect ed with the purchaser, user, or pa tron. A confi rmed violation Asst. Editor, 938-8365 De partment of the Army, under ex clu sive con tract with or re jection of this policy of equal opportunity Eric S. Bartelt USMA. The views and opin ions ex pressed herein are by an ad ver tis er will result in the re fus al to print Sports Editor, 938-3883 not nec essari ly those of the USMA or the Army. ad ver tis ing from that source. Kathy Eastwood Staff Writer, 938-3684 The Pointer View ® is published week ly by the USMA Public Affairs Office, Bldg. 600, West Point, N.Y. 10996 (845) 938-2015 See Solution on Page 7 February 16, 2007 3 West Point Tax Center entering busy tax season By Kathy Eastwood $30,000 in services so far. located in Building 606 on the quickest this way because the tax also qualify for assistance. Staff Writer Fusco said if people here had to fourth floor. payer provides his or her bank “We do accept walk-ins, go out to H&R Block or other tax “Cadets generally are not account number and the routing but because the tax season will The West Point Tax Center, services, they would be paying for included as a dependent on anyone number for the bank, which allows be getting busier from now on, located in building 626 on the the services. else’s return and need to file tax refunds to be directly deposited we advise people to call for an second floor here, is entering Here it is provided for free, returns,” he said. “Cadets pay taxes into an account,” he said. “They appointment at 938-6165,” Fusco the busiest time of the season, thanks to our volunteers. on the interest on cadet accounts generally receive their refunds said. according to Capt. John Fusco, “We have an experienced staff or returns on any investments they within two weeks.” Individual appointments are West Point Tax Center officer-in- here trained on personal taxes,” may have” he said. The Tax Center is open for generally one-half hour to one-hour charge. said Fusco. “They all have been According to Fusco, Anne appointments from 8:30 a.m. to in length. “We have sent out more than trained by the Internal Revenue Stocking, the lead tax preparer at 3:30 p.m. for active duty, retirees The Tax Center will be open 170 returns since we started Jan. Service and had to pass three exams the West Point Tax Center, will and their family members. until ‘Tax Day’, April 17. 29,” he said. “We are right on pace on basic, intermediate and military screen and interview cadets to make Reserve and National Guard on An extension was given this with what we did last year at this tax returns.” sure they have all the paperwork active status for more than 30 days year because the usual tax day of time. Late February and March Although the Tax Center necessary to file a return. generally are the busiest times of deals mostly with personal and “Some cadets assume that the year for us.” uncomplicated taxes, there are because they have their W-2 Forms, The Tax Center is staffed with volunteer tax attorneys and Certified they are all set to go,” he said. “That volunteers from the installation and Public Accountant’s here that can isn’t true. Sometimes an investment spouses of Soldiers and officers help those with more complicated statement from a bank may not who volunteer their time to help tax returns. come until the end of February others with their tax returns. They Cadets can also receive tax and they will need that statement have provided the community with help at the legal assistance office in order to file.” The Tax Center e-files federal PAY INEQUITY, cont. from page 1 returns and, for those states that allow it, will e-file state returns bill aims to make the provision military members serving outside as well. permanent. the United States and Puerto Rico “Tax refunds are generally “This is make-or-break money an extended deadline for filing. for our Soldiers and their families,” Those serving in a combat zone Pryor said. “If we allowed this tax can postpone filing their taxes 180 benefit to expire, we would have days after their last day of combat shortchanged the men and women service, under the law. serving heroically in combat who are not making much money, have GUARD, families to provide for and have little or no savings.” cont. from page 1 Meanwhile, a separate 2004 issues are encouraged to contact measure addresses another problem Shaw or the Physical Security associated with military members section at the Provost Marshal’s in filing their taxes. The Military Office at 938-2042. Family Tax Relief Act gives 4 February 16, 2007 Community Features and Photos African-Americans continue tradition of distinguished service By Gerry J. Gilmore 75) African-Americans continued to join the armed forces in large [Editor’s Note: This is Part II numbers. Many volunteered to of a two-part story on the tradition join the prestigious and high-risk of African-American distinguished airborne and air mobile helicopter service.] combat units. America was again engaged Future Air Force Gen. Daniel in a global war after the Japanese “Chappie” James Jr., a graduate attacked Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, of the African-American pilot Dec. 7, 1941. African-American training program conducted at then- serviceman Navy Ship’s Cook 3rd Tuskegee College, later Tuskegee Class Dorie Miller distinguished University, Ala., during World War himself during the Pearl Harbor II, flew 78 combat missions into attack and won the Navy Cross. North Vietnam. James later became Miller voluntarily manned an anti- the first four-star African-American aircraft gun and shot down four general in the U.S. armed forces. Japanese planes, despite his lack There were 20 African-American of gunnery training. Medal of Honor recipients during During World War II, more the Vietnam War. Benjamin O. Davis, Jr. [USMA than 1 million African-Americans African-American enlistment 1936]. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE USMA answered the nation’s call, despite Davis, the first African-American to graduate from West Point in into the U.S. military jumped with LIBRARY ARCHIVES the continuance of segregated units the 20th century, commanded the Tuskegee Airmen, an all-black the advent of the all-volunteer Army commemoration of the and discrimination. Civil rights flying unit in WWII. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION force in 1973. African-Americans work and birthday of civil rights leaders of that time saw military officers and noncommissioned 26, 1948, he signed Executive made up about 17 percent of the leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., service as a way for African- officers about the performance of Order 9981. It states: “It is hereby military’s enlisted force when the guest speaker Andrew J. Young Americans to achieve long-denied about 2,500 African-American declared to be the policy of the draft ended in 1973. By the early Jr. remarked that the U.S. military rights and respect. troops who had volunteered for president that there shall be equality 1980s, African-Americans made fulfills King’s dream of equality African-Americans served with combat duty in the European of treatment and opportunity for up nearly 24 percent of the enlisted and social justice for all by its distinction in units such as the 761st theater of operations. More than 80 all persons in the armed services force. practice of promoting people based Tank Battalion, the 555th Infantry percent of leaders interviewed said without regard to race, color, And when the United States on individual merit, rather than by Parachute Battalion, the 99th that African-American Soldiers had religion, or national origin.” The and its allies pushed Iraqi dictator ethnic makeup. Pursuit Squadron, and the 332nd performed very well in combat. order also established a presidential Saddam Hussein’s forces out of Servicemembers “appreciate Fighter Group. The Third Army’s And, 69 percent of officers and 83 committee on equality of treatment Kuwait in 1991, the most-senior the diversity of this nation, and you march across Europe under Gen. percent of the NCOs queried said and opportunity in the armed officer in the U.S. military was fight to defend the freedoms and George S. Patton after D-Day was they saw no reason why African- services. an African-American, Army Gen. opportunities of all of our citizens,” facilitated by African-American American infantrymen should not The Korean War erupted in Colin L. Powell, the chairman of Young said at the observance. “And quartermaster troops who drove perform as well as white Soldiers June 1950 and somewhat slowed the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Powell that is what makes the military a supply trucks for the “Red Ball if both had the same training and the implementation of Truman’s later served as Secretary of State leader in our society.” Express.” experience. order. However, more than 600,000 in President George W. Bush’s [Editor’s Note: Gilmore writes Benjamin O. Davis Sr. became A majority of officers in the African-Americans served in the administration. for the American Forces Press the first African-American general survey also approved of integrating armed forces during the war. Two And today, African-Americans Service. Information for this article officer in the regular Army and the African-American platoons within African-American Army sergeants, continue to answer duty’s call was compiled from U.S. military U.S. armed forces when he was white company units. However, Cornelius H. Charlton and William as members of the U.S. armed documents, U.S. National Archives promoted to brigadier general Aug. many senior military leaders at that Thompson, earned the Medal of forces during the war against and Records Administration 1, 1941. Davis was awarded the time remained reluctant to move Honor during the conflict, which global terrorism. During a recent material and other sources.] Distinguished Service Medal for toward total integration. ended in 1953. his work as inspector of African- Other surveys conducted by the “Project Clear” conducted by American troop units during the U.S. government after the war cited Johns Hopkins University and war. In 1954, Davis’s son, Benjamin the unfairness and inefficiency released in 1954, studied the effects O. Davis Jr., would become the first of having segregated military of segregation and integration in the African-American general in the units. President Harry S. Truman’s Army both in the United States and U.S. Air Force. Committee on Civil Rights’ in Korea. The report concluded that Yet, at first, there were no landmark report, titled, “To Secure racially segregated units negatively African-American Medal of Honor These Rights,” condemned racial affected Army efficiency, while recipients from World War II. After segregation wherever it existed and integration enhanced military an Army study, that oversight specifically criticized the practice readiness. By the end of 1954, the was rectified Jan. 13, 1997, when of segregation in the U.S. armed last all-African-American unit had President Bill Clinton presented forces. The report, issued Oct. 29, been disbanded, while African- Medals of Honor to families of 1947, recommended legislation American enlistment in the military seven World War II-era African- and administrative action “to end grew. American servicemen. One, Army immediately all discrimination and In June 1961, the Defense 1st Lt. Vernon Baker, was the only segregation based on race, color, Department issued a directive recipient still living and present creed or national origin” in all designed to eliminate off- to receive his award. The other branches of the U.S. military. post discrimination. By 1963, six Soldiers received their medals Truman decided to end commanders were made posthumously. segregation in the armed forces and responsible to ensure that their Near the end of World War the civil service by administrative troops were treated fairly by off- II, an Army survey conducted in action through an executive order, post landlords. May and June of 1945 asked white rather than by legislation. On July During the Vietnam War (1962- Community Features and Photos February 16, 2007 5 Cadets visit Inter-American Defense College Story and photo by MC2 [AW] from the Inter-American Defense Cassandra Thompson Board, the technical arm of the U.S. Navy Organization of American States, and parent command of the IADC, WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. will travel to West Point in May, Military Academy cadets got a he said, to hear presentations and chance to mingle with Latin- recommendations for the future American dignitaries Feb. 9-10 from the cadets. at the Inter-American Defense “The language and cultural College in Washington. immersion is a phenomenal For the second year in a row, opportunity for them,” Baker said. Firsties engaged in the capstone “It’s like going to another country linguistics project applied their without making the trip.” West Point training to real-world The Inter-American Defense situations presented by senior- College, located on Fort Lesley level military and civilian leaders J. McNair, is one of the foremost at IADC. institutes of learning for senior- Coronels Jefferson Wanderley [left] and Fernando S. Nunes of Brazil debate issues facing their The 46 cadets were divided level officials with an interest country with U.S. Military Academy cadets and faculty Feb. 9. into 10 country groups. Students in the political, economic and grant from the Organization of year an unparalleled educational their parent countries to become and advisors from the IADC military issues facing Latin American States, IADC is able to and research experience. Many presidents, senators, leaders and presented country orientations America today. Driven by a offer approximately 60 students a former scholars have returned to policy makers. and highlighted issues facing their countries entirely in Spanish or Portuguese, giving the cadets the opportunity to discuss and debate solutions to those problems. “The objective is that the students and advisors of the IADC will share their knowledge with the cadets in an academic environment,” said IADC director, Maj. Gen. Keith Huber. “Our guests also have the opportunity to practice their language skills, which they have been studying at the academy, with people who are fluent in these languages.” Major Shane Baker, a Portuguese instructor at West Point, highlighted other benefits of the trip. He said this experience would teach the cadets to present ideas to senior officers, not only from the U.S., but from other countries as well. “It also strengthens relationships between our armies,” Baker, from Portola, Calif., said. “Some of these cadets will form friendships with IADC students that will last throughout their careers.” Cadet 1st Class Mary Boyle, who had studied Spanish for five years and is now a Chinese major at West Point, said this year’s topic, immigration, led to lively discussions between the cadets and the defense college’s students and advisors. “Our panel is made up of students not only from Nicaragua, but also from neighboring countries such as Ecuador, Honduras and Guatemala,” Boyle, from Fairfax, Va., said. “I think it helped keep the discussion open and honest, and revealed cultural and political trends in the region.” Baker said at the end of the project, each student writes a paper that will be nested in a group thesis. Huber, and other general officers 6 February 16, 2007 Community Features and Photos Jewish Chapel Cadet Choir performs at the 17th Annual Jewish Collegiate Festival Story and photo by with a march-on, cadence and Susan Schwartz singing the National Anthem and EECS/OIC, Hatikvah [the National Anthem of Jewish Chapel Choir Israel]. They also performed in the second show singing “Jerusalem of Gold”, “This is My Land” and the The Jewish Chapel Cadet Choir, West Point Alma Mater. led by Cadet 3rd Class Zachary The choir has performed in Ciccolo as student conductor and the festival for many years. This musical director, performed Sunday year, the performances were at the 17th Annual Jewish Collegiate recorded by Shalom TV, a premium Festival of the Performing Arts at digital cable television network the Jewish Theological Seminary celebrating Jewish culture, for a in New York City. possible future broadcast. The festival is an annual Cadet 1st Class Daniel Harrison, opportunity for Jewish performance Cadet-in-Charge for the weekend, groups to get together and share noted that this was going to be the Members of the Jewish Chapel Cadet Choir perform a little “schtick” to This is My Country during their passion for Jewish song last choir trip of his cadet career a performance at the 17th Annual Jewish Collegiate Festival of the Performing Arts Sunday. and dance. The singing is all a and that “it was great to go out with This amused the audience as their performance until then had been so formal. cappella. a bang!” cadets, the participants this year The cadets opened both shows In addition to the West Point included groups from Brandeis University, University of Michigan, Columbia University, Barnard College, Jewish Theological Viva! Las Vegas Night Seminary, Cornell University, Submitted by the WPWC party. Guests attending Viva! Las Johns Hopkins University, Boston Vegas will have the opportunity University, Tufts University, The West Point Women’s Club to look over the prizes and place University of Maryland, The Ohio will host their annual fundraiser, silent bids for items they would State University, Binghamton Viva! Las Vegas, Casino Night like to buy. University, New York University, and Silent Auction Feb. 23 from 7 Viva! Las Vegas is a fundraiser Bryn Mawr College, Haverford p.m. until midnight at the Thayer for the WPWC and supports College, Swarthmore College, Hotel. various clubs and activities around Queens College and University of Groups all around West Point post. Schools, clubs, organizations Pennsylvania. are putting together exciting and even families of deployed The Choir also performed for baskets and prizes for the Silent Soldiers benefit from the funds three Jewish Heritage clubs in the Auction. raised at Viva! Las Vegas. Boynton Beach, Fla., area the end “We have a great variety of The evening also includes of January, reaching over 1,100 baskets this year that will appeal casino-type games and live audience members. to a wide range of tastes,” said entertainment, as well as the silent Karen Govern, one of the silent auction. This year the WPWC has auction coordinators. “There are introduced an exciting addition -- some very creative ideas out there, a high stakes poker tournament. including sports-themed baskets, Reservations are still being luxurious spa baskets, family taken for the tournament. E-mail vacation baskets and more.” [email protected] or call Baskets come in many 446-2534. shapes and sizes including a Tickets can be purchased at large dice ottoman filled with the door and attendees with funny games and a wheelbarrow filled money to use at the event. with everything needed to go To volunteer, e-mail to a West Point football tailgate [email protected]. February 16, 2007 7 Community Leisure 8 February 16, 2007 At Your Leisure What’s Happening 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the same had an uplifting experience with [Prerequisities: FIT and Supe’s semi-annual command Army Family Action Plan Steering location. the American Red Cross or Armed PreCourse testing.] brief Committee Update Thursday from To R.S.V.P. call 938-2782. Forces Emergency Services. Sunday and Feb. 25, 9 a.m. to The Superintendent’s semi- 10 a.m. to noon in the Jewish Contact Michelle Strom, the 5 p.m. annual command interest briefing Chapel Social Hall. Chapel Gospel Congregation area director for the WP ARC, at is scheduled for Feb. 23 from Please join us to hear about The West Point Chapel Gospel [845] 938-4100. Babysitter’s training 12:45 to 1:45 p.m., in Thayer Hall’s and discuss the status of your Congregation invites the West Are you 11 years old or older Robinson Auditorium. community’s AFAP issues. Point community to join them in Red Cross classes and want to learn basic child IAW USMA Reg. 600-1, this For more information contact a celebration of African-American To register for any of the classes care? briefing is mandatory for all officers, Army Community Service at [845] History Month Feb. 25 at 12:30 below, go to www.nyredcross.org Feb. 24, 9 to 4:30 p.m. and all non-commissioned officers [E-7 938-4621, DSN 688-4621. p.m. at the West Point Chapel. or call 800-514-5103. March 24, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and above] and civilian employees Issues being briefed can be For more information contact [GS-9 and above]. found by clicking on the 2006 Lt. Col. Archie Wilmer at 938- CPR/AED Others who wish to attend AFAP Symposium outbrief link 6726. for the professional rescuer should coordinate with their at http://www.usma.edu/mwr/ March 4, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. activities. ACTIVITY/IVC/IVC.HTM. New fingerprinting hours Everyone must be seated by B e g i n n i n g M a r c h 1 First Aid for Cats and Dogs 12:40 p.m. The briefing will be Photo exhibit opens today fingerprinting will only be conducted March 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. broadcast live on the Command Local photographer Ted on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. at Channel and will be rebroadcast Spiegel will have an exhibit of his the Provost Marshal’s Office. Lay Responder First Aid/CPR/ Feb. 26 at 1 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 9 photographs of West Point and the AED instructor course a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Hudson River Valley on display Wyldlife Barn Social at Eisenhower Hall’s Class of The Wyldlife Barn Social, for AFAP Steering Committee 1929 Gallery beginning today and sixth through eighth grade students, The West Point community is running through April 7. is March 3 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Command invited to attend the Commander’s There will be a reception Feb. West Point Elementary School. If your last name ends in A-M Channel bring something salty, like chips. If Keller Corner your last name ends in N-Z bring 8/23 something sugary, like cookies. KACH closures Point is requesting volunteers from Feb. 16 - Feb. 23 All outpatient clinics, Orange and Putnam counties and laboratory, pharmacy and radiology the West Point community to help Free tax preparation Friday will be closed today and Monday. support the blood drive at West MilitaryOneSource offers free 8:30 a.m. Army Newswatch The emergency room will remain Point March 19-22 at Eisenhower tax preparation and filing. 1 p.m. Army Newswatch open. Hall. Visit www.militaryonesource. 6 p.m. Army Newswatch The times will be 11 a.m. to com to file your federal and state Monday - Thursday 7 p.m., March 19-21 and from taxes with TaxCut Basic Online by Upcoming Blood Drive 8:30 a.m. Army Newswatch 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 22. To H&R Block. The American Red Cross in 1 p.m. Army Newswatch Greater New York-Putnam/West volunteer call [845] 938-4100. Call 800-342-9647. You name it, they can help 6 p.m. Army Newswatch -- 24/7. in the movie theater Provided by the Department of Feb. 23 NOW SHOWING at Mahan Hall, Bldg. 752 Defense at no cost to active duty, 12:45 p.m. Supe’s Semi- Friday -- Happily N’ever After, PG, 7:30 p.m. Guard and Reserve [regardless of Annual Brief Friday -- Night at the Museum, PG, 9:30 p.m. activation status] and their family Feb. 23 -- Stomp the Yard, PG-13, 7:30 p.m. members. Feb. 23 -- Freedom Writers, PG-13, 9:30 p.m. Feb. 24 -- The Pursuit of Happyness, PG-13, 7:30 p.m. Red Cross needs your stories Feb. 24 -- Alpha Dogs, R, 9:30 p.m. The American Red Cross at West Point is looking for interesting The theater schedule can also be found at www.aafes.com. true stories from anyone who has At Your Leisure February 16, 2007 9 MWR Blurbs Polar Fest registration Event activities will be open Registration is now underway from noon until 9 p.m. for the 2007 Polar Fest at the West Free admission for family Point Ski Slope Feb. 24. members of deployed Soldiers. Register early and save. Call the Ski Sales Office at 938- Advance registration is required 3726 for more information or go for competetive events. online to www.usma.edu/mwr.

Ski lessons

Ski instructor Bob Ryan [left] teaches Sgt. 1st Class Myra Fishburn and Maj. Melissa Eslinger how to move over flat ground while on skis during free ski and snowboard lessons for Soldiers sponsored by MWR Feb. 9. Twenty-six new skiers and snowboarders from the rank of private to colonel took advantage of the offer. SGT. MAJ. CAL CRISTIANSEN/BAND 10 February 16, 2007 Army and Community Sports Army Women’s Tennis youth takes reigns Story and photos by of only two juniors, Diana Alquero, circumstance that we’re in and it Eric S. Bartelt is recovering from shoulder surgery will take time for things to come Sports Editor in November. together,” Flach said. “We can’t “Right now, this is the smallest force it because we’ll just drive Potential is where a lack of team I’ve ever had because of ourselves crazy and that would ruin experience and a ton of talent meet injuries,” Peck explained. “I have the team.” and this year’s meeting place is eight who can start and nine when The team features five at a tennis court where the Army Diana comes back. The key to sophomores, two freshmen and Women’s Tennis team practices winning a championship in the one junior in its lineup as it stands or plays. Patriot League is the team with the now, and Flach is not worried about The team is coming off back-to- healthiest players at the end of the the team being able to pull through back Patriot League championships season will come out on top. its youthful struggles. and trips to the NCAA tournament, “Having more depth allows “It’s actually an encouragement but now it faces its sternest test as you to rest people more often and knowing that we’re so young and the team’s young core has to take mix up the lineup a bit more,” he so strong,” Flach stated. “With our full reign on the court. added. “Depth would allow me to age, it makes us so excited for the Off to a 1-5 dual meet start, sit people who, at this time, have future because we’ll continue to get the young women are gaining minor injuries that could heal faster stronger and our recruiting class for experience against tough with rest and still allow me a strong next year is great. competition as they head toward lineup.” “With a lot of strong players a match up against Air Force Peck will be getting coming in, we’re getting that Saturday. reinforcements next fall with a unstoppable feeling,” Flach added. “[In 2005], we really had a great recruiting class that will “It’s very encouraging that we have good year and I thought we would include Kate’s younger sister, Anne a couple of more years of success have a great shot in beating some Houghton, but until then the team ahead.” nationally ranked teams, but we lost will lean on its current core of Another strong asset from the our number one and two [players] sophomores and freshmen. sophomore class is Sarah Giles- last year for off court reasons,” said One of the team’s best players Madden, who teamed with fellow Army Women’s Tennis head coach is sophomore Nikki Flach, who sophomore, Jessica Shurtz, to earn Paul Peck. “So, all of a sudden, finished last season as the Patriot the MVP honors at last year’s I thought we would be starting League “Rookie of the Year.” Patriot League tournament. a couple of sophomores, juniors Flach, who is the niece of Giles-Madden has been fighting and seniors, but instead I ended up Olympic gold medalist and six-time through a lower back injury and starting four freshmen. Grand Slam champion Ken Flach, had to play the fall schedule “It was a baptism by fire by is Army’s number one player in recovering from a broken finger throwing them out there for the singles and doubles. She helped that she received participating in Sophomore Sarah Giles-Madden has fought through a lower experience,” Peck added, “and like Army to its first dual win of the combatives during Cadet Field back injury and a broken finger this year. She teamed with this year, they started off a bit slow, season against Stony Brook Sunday Training during the summer. doubles mate, sophomore Jessica Shurtz, last spring to earn but then they gained composure and at the Lichtenberg Tennis Center Peck likes his team’s character the Patriot League tournament MVP while leading Army to its momentum.” by winning both her singles and and talent, especially Giles-Madden, second straight NCAA tournament berth. The squad isn’t short on doubles matches. She is looking who wears her emotions on her on the opponents by making them Cal, respectively, 4-0 the last two adversity this year either as their forward to leading this team to sleeve and puts much pressure on move a lot.” NCAA tournaments. only senior, Kate Houghton, will future success. her opponents. Giles-Madden said last year “We’re going to set higher goals miss the rest of the season with an “We may be in the midst of a “She has a fiery, competitive the team’s goal was to beat Air for ourselves,” Giles-Madden said, ACL tear of her right knee and one slow start, but we know it’s the nature and that helps her,” Peck Force and make the NCAAs and “and as we gain those goals we’re said. “She’s tenacious and strong that this year the team is looking building more confidence than in the backcourt. She takes the ball to win a match at the NCAAs after the year before and we can keep on the rise and puts a lot of pressure losing to Stanford and Southern See YOUTH on page 11

Sophomore Nikki Flach plays number one singles and doubles for Army. She was the Patriot League “Rookie of the Year” in 2006 finishing with 30 wins on the season. Army and Community Sports February 16, 2007 11 Intramural update SPORTS

PLAYOFF RESULTS SOUTH DIV. AS OF TUES. SEMI-FINAL NOTES NORTH DIV. ENGLISH 32, USMA BAND 27 QUARTERS USMA BAND 38, ENGLISH 34 (OT) • NIGHT TIME UNIT MATH #1 23, DPE 22, OT [SERIES TIED AT 1-1] INTRAMURAL and STAFF MATH #1 23, DPE 12 & FACULTY NOONTIME [MATH #1 WINS SERIES 2-0] QUARTERS VOLLEYBALL signups are EE&CS 32, HISTORY 19 SYSTEMS ENGR. 2, IETD 0 HISTORY 16, EE&CS 14 underway. SYSTEMS ENGR. 2, IETD 0 [SERIES TIED AT 1-1] Both leagues are scheduled [SYSTEMS WINS SERIES 2-0] to start March 19 and will run USMA BAND 32, 3RD REGIMENT 17 through May. SOCIAL SCIENCE 30, BS&L 25 3RD REGIMENT 25, USMA BAND 17 Team entry deadlines for SOCIAL SCIENCE 31, BS&L 23 USMA BAND 27, 3RD REGIMENT 24 [SOCIAL SCIENCE WINS 2-0] [USMA BAND WINS 2-1] both leagues run until March 1. All teams can signup by DMI 44, MEDDAC 33 ENGLISH 21, MATH 13 calling James McGuinness at DMI 33, MEDDAC 22 ENGLISH 32, MATH 22 938-3066 or e-mail him at James. WINS [ENGLISH WINS 2-0] [DMI 2-0] [email protected]. Marathon Team builds up for Boston Marathon trip Story and photo by Cadet 3rd finishing in 1:35:38. Class Spencer Garrison The race is the first of a three- Marathon Team PAO part winter/spring series intended to better prepare runners from around The Army Marathon Team the region for the demands of the made great strides Sunday in their historic and famously grueling 26.2 annual train-up for the Boston mile Boston Marathon, which will Marathon, traveling to Southport, be held April 16. Conn., to compete in the Boston Cadet-in-Charge junior Vik Build-Up Series 20k Road Race. Bakshi explained, “The painful Facing morning temperatures course helps simulate some of the below freezing and a daunting challenges runners will face in course strewn with hills, 12 cadets, Boston this coming April as well as an exchange midshipman and an help gauge where each runner is at officer braved the elements to this point in the season.” Senior Brandon Corbin complete the challenging 12.5-mile The USMA runners are training event. hard to once again strongly represent Senior Brandon Corbin won the Academy and the Army this the race with a time of 1:12:30 spring at the Boston Marathon, and (averaging 5:50 per mile), beating therefore will follow through with out the nearest competitor by a full the two remaining Boston Build-Up minute, while senior Erin Jensen races, a 25k on March 4 and a 30k led the Army women’s squad, on March 25. YOUTH, cont. from page 10 going [toward winning at the she decided the win for us.” NCAAs].” Peck encourages the community Saturday’s 10 a.m. match up to come out and watch his team versus Air Force, as described by play against Air Force. He wants Peck, will be a test of the team’s people to see the athleticism of the ability, training and coaching to see women on the team and the speed where they stand right now and if of the game. He believes it’s a team they are going in the right direction. worth watching and it will only Army beat Air Force last season in get stronger due to its passionate a 4-3 thriller, which kind of caught youth. Giles-Madden off guard. “If we’re able to have a good “I can’t really describe it,” Giles- year, I think much of the credit Madden explained. “I remember should be given to these kids before the match everyone was because our other teams always making such a big deal of it and I had strong upper classes. For was like, ‘I know it’s Air Force and them to do well would give them whatever,’ and they built it up, but a huge amount of confidence for once you’re in the moment I was the upcoming years,” Peck said. like, ‘Oh, my God, I’m playing “I think if we end up winning the Air Force,’ championship that it will send a “It is definitely exciting,” message to the rest of the league she added. “Especially watching that, ‘wow, this is a young team and [graduate Amanda Paluch] when they’ve got a great recruiting class.