Pentagram

Vol. 63, No. 87 September 13, 2018 www.army.mil/jbmhh Published For Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall SPECIAL EDITION JBM-HH commemorates 9/11, first on scene during Pentagon attack

Retired Col. Christopher Essig, Fort Myer garrison commander Sept. 11, 2001, shares his story from that day during the Fort Myer 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony Tuesday.

By Abigail Kelly other first responders during the initial Pentagram Staff Writer response and rescue at the Pentagon and were on hand for the recovery Soldiers, Marines, civilians, and com- efforts as well.” munity members gathered at the Joint Retired Col. Christopher Essig, Fort Base Myer-Henderson Hall Head- Myer’s garrison commander on 9/11, quarter Fire Station on Tuesday for a reflected on his own experience that ceremony commemorating 9/11. day. What he recalled the most is how Seventeen years ago, on a Tuesday people around him reacted quickly morning, two hijacked planes crashed and started to spring into action on into the towers of the World Trade their own, and going where they were Center in New York City. Minutes later, needed. a third plane hit the Pentagon, a short “I’d like to say I was up there shouting distance away from then Fort Myer. commands and being on the radio and Tuesday’s ceremony not only honored everybody was waiting for me to tell the lives that were lost that day, but also them what to do,” Essig said, “but our honored how individuals on Fort Myer MPs responded, MPs were recalled, but were among the first to respond. more importantly, everybody saw what “Sitting in the shadow of the Penta- was going on and people were self-de- gon, Fort Myer and its personnel played ploying, they were coming to the head- a pivotal role on Sept. 11 and in the quarters, coming to their place of duty days and weeks that followed,” said Joint even though they were off. Knowing full PHOTOS BY ABIGAIL KELLY Base Myer-Henderson Hall Command- well that they were probably going to be JBM-HH Fire Department Lt. Michael Humphreys rings The fire and emergency service bell after the moment of silence to remember when the plane crashed into the Pentagon Sept. er Col. Kimberly Peeples said. “Our needed, and knowing full well that they 11, 2001 at 9:37 a.m. during the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall 9/11 commemoration held firefighters, police, military, and medical at the Headquarters Fire Station Tuesday. personnel joined Arlington County and see 9/11, page 2 Pentagon flag unfurled on 9/11

COURTESY PHOTO A firefighter sprays water to put out the fire after the Pentagon was attacked Sept. 11, 2001.

PHOTOS BY JIM DRESBACH Fort Myer chaplain on 9/11 reflects A flag team stands at attention following a dawn American flag remembrance unfurling at the Pentagon Tuesday morning. Seventeen years ago at 9:37 a.m. Sept. 11, 2001, on his duty in the aftermath a commercial airliner carrying 59 passengers crashed into By Abigail Kelly to work. became a chaplain. the western side of the Pentagon killing 125 military and Pentagram Staff Writer “I realized that I really ought “I loved … the ministry and I civilian personnel people inside the building. to go in. Even though everyone felt a call to ministry,” he said, On Sept. 11, 2001, now retired was told to leave, I had some “and I loved the military, the Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Frederick policemen waving at me yell- Army in particular.” Robinson, the chaplain for Fort ing at me, ‘why are you going Before that day, his duties as Myer at the time, was at his home into the city while everyone the installation chaplain were in Chantilly, Virginia, about 24 (is) coming out,’” he recalled. across the board. He would hold miles away from the post. Since “But I knew that was my place services, provide counseling, and he worked Sundays, he took of duty, and that as a chaplain I supervise the post’s religious that Tuesday as his day off. As ought to go.” services. In an article he wrote he watched the news of the two Robinson came from an Army published by the Baptist Gen- buildings of the World Trade Family. His father served most of eral Conference in December Center get attacked, he got a call his career on Fort Myer, and his 2001, he said he always tried to from a sergeant for an account- brother went to the United States be ready for war if he was ever ability check to determine if Military Academy at West Point. needed. anyone was missing. When he saw Robinson became an infantry “On Sept. 11, a new kind of that the Pentagon had been hit, officer after finishing ROTC at war came to me,” he wrote. American flag team member Nick Connelly stands at attention on the roof of the Pentagon following the flag he was in disbelief. Virginia Tech. After three years, unfurling Tuesday to remember those killed in the 9/11 He knew he needed to go back he went to seminary school and see Chaplain, page 3 attack in northern Virginia in 2001.

Index Local forecast First Responders Cup ...... page 2 Chaplin remembers 9/11 ...... page 3 THURS. FRI. SAT. SUN. Pentagon attacked ...... page 4 82 | 72 76 | 70 75 | 69 78 | 70 News Notes ...... page 11

For more weather forecasts and information, visit www.weather.gov. 2 Thursday, September 13, 2018 PENTAGRAM Tournament honors 9/11 first responders By Leah Rubalcaba Community Relations Officer

On the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 attack on the Pentagon, a group of Arlington County leaders in 2002 founded The First Responders Cup, a two- day, girls’ fast-pitch softball charity tournament — the proceeds of which would go to benefit 9/11 and military charities. Jack Belcher, director of PHOTOS BY GREG HUDSON, FIRST RESPONDERS CUP BOARD Arlington County’s De- JBM-HH Commander Col. Kimberly Peeples throws a pitch partment of Technology to Maddie Elias, of the Glory 16U team, at the Arlington County’s 17th annual First Responders Cup girls’ fast-pitch Services and one of the softball charity tournament held Saturday at the Barcroft founders of the tour- Sports Complex. The JBM-HH commander annually partic- nament, described the ipates in the opening ceremony of the tournament held to motivation for the event honor the first responders who served in New York, Penn- as a way “to celebrate the sylvania and at the Pentagon on 9/11. heroism of our fire, police out the first pitch. This ed to catch the first pitch and our military who year was no different. of the tournament. served us so bravely in While the ceremony had After Peeples had a New York, Pennsylvania, to be cancelled because chance to meet and talk to and at the Pentagon on of weather, game play still Elias and her parents, Pee- 9/11 and who continue to took place, and JBM-HH ples threw some practice serve us around the world Commander Col. Kim- balls that Elias caught. every day.” berly Peeples made her According to Greg Saturday marked the way to the tournament to Hudson, a board member start of the 17th annual meet a very special player. of the First Respond- tournament, held at the Peeples was supposed ers Cup Tournament, Barcroft Sports Complex to have thrown the first “meeting Col. Peeples in Arlington. pitch to Maddie Elias and hearing her inspira- Annually, the Joint Base of the Glory 16U team. tional words was not only Myer-Henderson Hall Elias had been sidelined a highlight for her (Elias) commander is invited to over the summer due to and her parents, but for JBM-HH Commander Col. Kimberly Peeples congratulates Maddie Elias, of the Glory 16U team, at the Arlington County’s 17th annual First Responders Cup girls’ fast-pitch say a few remarks during an illness and Saturday everyone who was able softball charity tournament held Saturday at the Barcroft Sports Complex to honor the first the tournament’s opening was her first day back at to witness this special responders who served in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon 9/11. The JBM-HH ceremony and to throw play. She had been select- moment. commander annually throws out the first pitch and Elias was the designated catcher. DOD states initial casualty numbers of Pentagon attack By Sgt. 1st Class Sailors and nine civilians. Other defense agencies Kathleen T. Rhem reported a total of 10 personnel still unaccounted. American Forces Press Service Officials stressed the numbers are initial estimates “While the number is not expected to change sig- Editor’s Note: This story ran in the Sept. 14, 2001 nificantly, this is only a preliminary initial estimate. issue of the Pentagram. Based on roster checks and other information,” a The Department of Defense officials announced spokesperson said. tentative numbers Thursday of those still unac- No one has said how many remains have been counted for in the aftermath of Tuesday’s terrorist removed from the wreckage, but officials have said attack on the Pentagon. remains recovered are being sent to the Armed Defense officials said 126 persons are still missing. Forces Institute of Pathology at Dover Air Force The number doesn’t include the victims who Base, Delware. were aboard the hijacked plane that slammed into After the remains have been formally identified,

PHOTO BY PAUL HARING the Pentagon. the families of those killed will be notified and Smoke billows from the west side of the Pentagon after a hijacked The Army is missing 21 military, 47 civilian, and DOD will release the names to the public, officials airliner crashed into the building Tuesday morning. six contractor personnel. The Navy is missing 33 said.

9/11 from page 1

wanted to play a role in the operation to recover from this attack.” Specifically, the Fort Myer fire de- partment played a significant role in the operations on 9/11, as three firefighters were down at the Pentagon, seeing the plane crashing into the building. “Two of our firefighters, Alan Wallace and Mark Skipper, were working next to the truck and had only seconds to run when they saw the airplane approach- ing,” explained Peeples. “The fire truck literally saved their lives, protecting them from the fire and flying debris that fol- lowed. They together with Dennis Young, a third firefighter on duty, began to assist people who were trying to escape the burning building.” Chief C.T. Campbell, Fort Myer’s fire chief on 9/11, said that besides those three firefighters, everyone was ready to respond when they were needed. PHOTOS BY ABIGAIL KELLY “That day out of 30 people with JBM-HH Commander Col. Kimberly Peeples and Fort Myer Fire Chief Russell Miller lay a wreath during the 9/11 Commemoration the exception of three, everybody was Ceremony Tuesday at the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Headquarters Fire Station. here,” he said. “So when the alarm came in, we were actually able to re- spond.” Campbell also explained how even though as Fort Myer teamed up with local entities as time went on, it was the Fort Myer Fire Department firefighters who were first to put water on the fire and to start rescuing people out of the building. He said he was proud of how they were prepared, and how people were ready to serve. “We were well-trained, well prepared, and unafraid to go out there and answer the call and be right there if they need us,” he said. “I am very proud of every- Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Commander Col. Kimberly Chief C.T. Campbell, who served at Fort Myer’s fire chief Sept. one who was here that day.” Peeples introduces retired Col. Christopher Essig and Chief C.T. 11, 2001, talks about how the Fort Myer’s fire department were Pentagram Staff Writer can be reached at Campbell who both served at Fort Myer Sept. 11, 2001, during the the first on the scene at the Pentagon during Tuesday’s 9/11 [email protected]. 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony at the fire station Tuesday. Commemoration Ceremony in the headquarters fire station.

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The Pentagram is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of the Pentagram are not necessarily Col. Kimberly A. Peeples Catrina Francis Pentagram the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, or Joint Base Commander Editor Myer-Henderson Hall. The content of this publication is the responsibility of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Public Affairs Office. Pictures [email protected] not otherwise credited are U.S. Army photographs. News items should be submitted to the Pentagram, 204 Lee Ave., Bldg. 59, Fort Myer, VA Command Sgt. Maj. 22211-1199. They may also be e-mailed to [email protected]. The Pentagram is printed by offset every Thursday as a civilian Stephen M. Harris Jim Dresbach enterprise newspaper by APG Media of Chesapeake, LLC. APG Media of Chesapeake, LLC is located at 29088 Airpark Drive, Easton, MD Command Sergeant Major Staff Writer 21601. Telephone (301) 921-2800. Commercial advertising should be placed with the printer. APG Media of Chesapeake, LLC Publications is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army or Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertisements in this Michael L. Howard [email protected] publication, to include all inserts and supplements, does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Department of the Public Affairs Director Abigail Kelly Navy of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit Brent Wucher Staff Writer 703-696-5401 factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser shall result in the refusal to Command Information Officer [email protected] print advertising from that source. PENTAGRAM Thursday, September 13, 2018 3

PHOTO BY JIM GARMONE Folding flag Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) unfold a flag outside a wedge of the Pentagon damaged by the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The flag would later be unfurled from the roof of the Pentagon to symbolize the country’s resolve and inner strength.

each one. tried to piece together what happened “I would just encourage people to CHAPLAIN “It was moving to see how these down the road. Attendance at Sunday dig into their faith, and into their walk from page 1 honored dead were cared for at every chapel services increased, and more with God,” he said. “That’s the times stop on their final journey,” he said. people sought counseling. when you need to believe in him the Ministry at “The Site” He remembered counseling those “I talked to a couple of people who most, because that is what gets you Robinson will never forget his first who were dealing directly with search- worked in the area where the plane through those fears and anxieties.” view of the Pentagon’s damage. ing for people as part of the recovery crashed, but they had a dental ap- Always Remembering “It looked like a movie scene,” he process. pointment or something that took In the summer of 2003, Robinson recalled about seeing the result of the “The people who were dealing them away from their office, and their left Fort Myer to go to his final duty plane hitting the Pentagon. directly with the body recovery … officemates were killed, and they station in Germany. Chaplains from all the branches, they probably were going to have were asking me ‘how come I am I still Over the years, he downplayed his as well as a few civilian ministers he (post-traumatic alive?’ and they role in his mind, not really speaking stopped along the road to help, gath- stress disorder) are dealing with about it unless someone asked him ered. A higher-ranking officer orga- after that, going “I would just survivor’s guilt,” because he didn’t think people would nized a duty roster to have chaplains in pulling out he explained. really be interested. on the site 24/7. these bodies encourage He doesn’t “The people who really were sig- “I volunteered to be with the first out, identifying remember any- nificant were the ones actually there eight-hour shift,” he said. everyone, and people to dig thing he said to trying to help the people who survived Throughout the day and into the writing down the people who it all — the wounded and burned peo- night, Robinson walked around areas descriptions into their faith, sought his help ple who were coming out in the hours to meet Soldiers who requested coun- of the body’s specifically, but following,” Robinson said. “I don’t seling. He talked with firemen and condition,” he and into their he believes if see my role as being that dramatic. I military personnel as they worked in said. “That was someone asked was just helping people as a chaplain areas that were still on fire. very stressful and walk with God,” for Scripture, afterward. The next day, a tent was set up at trying to help he would direct “I just downplay it because in the the front of the rescue and recovery them with what he said. “That’s them to Psalm initial events, and I was just doing operations for chaplains to work from they were seeing, 23 (verses 1-4) what all the other chaplains were do- known as “the site.” smelling, and the times when which said, “The ing in the months that followed. It was One of the duties Robinson remem- all of that, they Lord is my shep- a memorable part of my career.” bered in the first several days after the would talk to us you need to herd, I lack noth- Seventeen years later, he still thinks attack was that operations continued about that. ing. He makes about it. He also thinks that even in the Pentagon. There were times “Trying to help believe in me lie down in though it may be fading in the memo- they were evacuated and once evacu- them get through green pastures, ries of others, it should be something ated, some were afraid of being there. that was prob- him the most, he leads me be- the country continues to think about. “All of those Soldiers (were) out ably the most side quiet waters, “I was thinking yeah overtime it is there, so we went out there to talk difficult.” because that he refreshes my not as significant to people unless they to them and many of them said that Counseling a soul. He guides were there, and they are thinking most ‘they didn’t want to go back in the Community in is what gets me along the of the new Soldiers that we’ve had, building,’” he said. “The stress level Shock right paths for 9/11 was 17 years ago, so it is not, it is was extremely high, and they were Before return- you through his name’s sake. kind of fading away in the memories,” fearful of being in the building again ing to the site Even though I he said. “So, I am glad Fort Myer has if anything happened again. So, a lot the day after the those fears and walk through the chosen to have a commemoration and of it was just trying to talk them into initial attack, darkest valley, I that people are still thinking about it going back and giving them assurance Robinson sat at anxieties.” will fear no evil, and remembering what a significant that things were OK and praying with his computer in for you are with event it really was particularly in that them when they requested that.” his office. After me; your rod and community there. The large part of the chaplains’ role seeing a prayer for the nation penned your staff, they comfort me.” “People ought to remember is that it following the several weeks after the by another influential protestant pas- At a time of tragedy, and the days could happen again and that we need attack was to help a part of the recov- tor, he decided to pen one to the Fort and weeks that followed, some tasks to be strong in our faith as a nation.” ery operation. Myer community titled “Prayer for remained easier than others. He referred to Psalm 33 which he para- Starting that Thursday, Sept. 13, America.” “It takes a lot of skill and experience phrased as even with the strongest armies, 2001, he stood with other chaplains He was surprised with the reaction to know how to help people during it is still God who protects a country. as Soldiers began to bring bodies of his message received. their times of greatest need,” he said. “We need to pray for our country, our those killed. He recalled a chaplain “People had something to pray “And you never know 100 percent leaders and pray for our nation’s safety, stationed at the door where they came (when) they didn’t know what to pray whether you’ve said the right thing or and our spiritual health,” said Robin- out of the building, the refrigerator before,” he said. not.” son. “(That is the) thing that our nation truck where the initial tagging, and at Just as recovery operations went on Still, he would do his best to com- needs to remember every year.” the final FBI point, where the chap- for months, so did Robinson’s work fort those and try to assure them in Pentagram Staff Writer Abigail Kelly can lain read Scripture and prayed over for the Fort Myer community as they their time of need. be reached at [email protected]. 4 Thursday, September 13, 2018 PENTAGRAM

COURTESY PHOTOS Fort Myer Engine 161 is shown after the Pentagon was attacked Sept. 11, 2001. Firefighter tells firsthand account of 9/11 Pentagon attack By Alan Wallace Special to the Pentagram

“Foam 61 to Fort Myer, we have had a commercial airliner crash into the west side of the Pentagon.” On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, I was assigned to the heliport station at the Pentagon. I was assigned there the day before as well. I should have been assigned to the Pentagon Fire Station all that week. Fort Myer fire fighters were taking a weeklong class on air field firefighting, giv- en at the classrooms Bldg. 219. Mark Skipper, Dennis Young, and I were the three crew members assigned to the Pentagon Fire Station on the morning of 9/11. We arrived there about 7:30 a.m. The fire station was new and we had only been using it since January or February of 2001. We also had a new crash truck as- signed there, an Emergency One Titan 3000. It carried 1,500 gallons of water and 200 gallons of 3 percent foam. Our first helicopter (Left) Alan Wallace puts out a fire after the Pentagon was attacked Sept. 11, 2001. flight was around 10 a.m. But we were expecting We both began to work tion. I later said the plane plane crashing into the pact site and seemed to be President George W. Bush around the crash truck approached the Pentagon Pentagon, which I later de- swinging his arms. I imme- to land in Marine One and were talking about the at about a 45-degree angle, scribed as “crunch” sensa- diately ran over to him to around noon, returning events in New York. About but later drawing showed it tion of a lot of pressure and ask if he was OK. He said from Jacksonville, Florida. 9:20 a.m. Chief Charlie was closer to 60 degrees. feeling very, very hot, very he was, and then said, “I’m Needless to say, neither Campbell called the Penta- Many people think Mark quickly. We’re certainly not glad you saw the airplane!” flight arrived at the Penta- gon fire station to inform and I watched the plane hit going to burn up! I said, “Get your gear on — gon that day because of the us of the attacks on the the building. We did not. Later that morning when we have a lot of work to do; terrorist attacks. WTC in New York. He We only saw it approach for I began to look at the dis- I’m going to the fire truck.” Mark, Dennis, and I had wanted to be sure we were an instant. I would esti- tances of everything from It was probably at this our turn-out gear either on aware of the WTC disaster mate not longer than half the fire truck, I thought the time that I first noticed the the crash truck or in the and that it was definitely a a second. Others didn’t plane hit the building 200 damage to the Pentagon station. About 8:30 a.m. I terrorist attack. He wanted understand why we didn’t feet south of the front of and the crash truck. A lot decided to pull the crash to be sure we were aware hear it sooner. We did not the fire truck. I had only of smoke was in the sky truck outside of the fire of everything going on hear it until right after we apparently run about 20 above the Pentagon. The station and place it in a around the fire station. He saw it. I estimate that the feet when the plane hit the rear of the crash truck was position more accessible to also said Washington D.C., plane hit the building only building. I ran another 30 on fire with a large blaze. the heliport landing site. could very well be a target one ½-two seconds after we feet or so until I felt I was But most noticeable was The truck was then parked and if that happened, our saw it. What I am saying is, on fire. I thought I had that everything around the perpendicular to the Pen- fire truck could be dis- immediately after we saw it, done everything I could do fire truck on the ground tagon with the rear of the patched to an incident. we heard the noise; the en- for myself. I decided to get was on fire. Also, the west truck 15-20 feet from the The last minute or two gines, I’m sure. I described down below the fireball. side of the Pentagon was west wall of the Pentagon before the plane hit the that as a terrible noise – So I dove face first to the on fire, all the way from the and the truck facing west, Pentagon, Mark and I were loud, scary, and horrible. blacktop. At this time, it first to the fifth (top) floor. towards the heliport pad. working in the right rear At the time we saw the just happened that I was Dennis was attempting The right side of the truck compartment where the plane I said, “Let’s go!” right beside the left rear to use a fire extinguisher was approximately 30 feet foam metering valves are and Mark and I ran away tire of the Ford van. (I pre- on the truck. Mark was from the fire station’s appa- located. Mark and I then from the area. I turned sumed that the debris from removing some of the ratus door opening. walked toward the right and ran to my right, going the Pentagon and airplane EMS equipment from the About 9 a.m. Mark and front corner of the truck. north. (I do not remem- was being propelled away truck. At this time, we all Dennis were inside the fire We had walked past the ber which way Mark went, from the impact site). I probably thought the truck station in the day room. right front corner of the since I did not see him immediately crawled very would be consumed by the Mark came out to tell me crash truck (Foam 161) until I crawled out from quickly under the van for damaging fire. that an airplane had just and were maybe 10-15 feet under the Ford van.) cover and safety. At this point, I went into crashed into the World in front of the truck when As I recall, I had several At this time, I noticed a the fire station through Trade Center. I then got up I looked up toward my left clear thoughts and feelings lot of heat and decided to the open apparatus door and went into the day room side. I saw a large frame as I was running: The noise crawl to the end of the van. area and attempted to get to watch the television commercial airliner cross- from the engines from the Very soon the heat was un- dressed in my turn-out coverage from New York ing Washington Boulevard airplane, awareness that bearable and I decided to gear (coat, pants, boots, City. While we three were heading toward the Penta- now we are being attacked, get out from under the van and helmet). I noticed watching, a second aircraft gon. The plane had two big planning to run until I and get farther away from my boots and pants were struck the second tower. I engines, appeared to be in catch on fire, and then the impact site. It was then covered with debris, with think we watched the TV level flight, and was only maybe dive to the ground that I saw Mark Skipper to numerous wood, rock, and for about 10 minutes or so. approximately 25 feet off and then figure out what to my left in the field 50-75 metal fragments filling I then went back outside. I the ground and only about do. feet away. He was standing, was soon joined by Mark. 200 yards from our loca- Hearing the sound of the looking back to the im- see FIRSTHAND, page 6 PENTAGRAM Thursday, September 13, 2018 5 Little known facts about aftermath of Pentagon attack revealed

By Jim Dreasbach came in and said ‘Sir, They are an interesting food, water, and machin- “I made a particular people didn’t know that,” Pentagram Staff you need to turn on the bunch of guys by any ery would initially be point not (to go down Essig revealed. Writer television.’” standard,” the former staged at the installation there),” Essig said of the Afraid to omit any indi- The morning network commander said with to aid first responders and timing of his visit. “There vidual or group or team Editor’s Note: This story and cable news shows pride. “We had three rescue teams. The instal- was a great tendency to who significantly contrib- ran in the Pentagram issue were broadcasting live firemen (Alan Wallace, lation also readied for the march to the sound of uted at Fort Myer end of published Sept. 9, 2011. video feeds from lower Mark Skipper, and Dennis deployment of all 3,000 the guns, and some of the rescue recovery, Essig Before the Sept. 11 ter- Manhattan Island where Young) down at the (Pen- Soldiers and support my guys did, rightfully did note that chaplains rorist crashes in New York New York City’s horizon tagon) site that day. Chief corps that would call Fort so. My job was back here at both Fort Myer and City and the Pentagon was being filled with fire- (C.T.) Campbell had the Myer home during the (at Fort Myer) to make Arlington National Cem- and Shanksville, PA., Col. balls, concrete soot, and entire fire department up recovery mission. Soldiers, sure that the garrison was etery played important Christopher G. Essig’s smoke. A pair of commer- here training. Interestingly, chemical engineers, and working. I went down roles as did Public Works stint as Fort Myer base cial airline suicide crashes they were training on air artillery personnel were to there at night and that director John Russo, who commander was short in into the WTC twin towers crashes. God bless him, take ranks in Fort Myer was probably the most self-deployed himself to calendar days, but long had done massive damage, C.T. was sharp enough barracks, and a rush job profound experience for the Pentagon moments in experience. As former but looming on Arling- because he heard the same was underway to prepared me during the whole after the crash. Fort Myer military police ton’s horizon was its own thing we heard (on the make-shift living quarters event. Seeing the Penta- “With the exception of battalion chief, Essig knew catastrophe. news). Everybody, because with cots and upgraded gon at night with damage the fire department, John the base, the streets, and “One tower had been of the wonders of televi- bathroom facilities. and it was all lit up by Russo was one of the few the buildings, but after hit, and we actually got sion, pretty much knew “The next phase of the spotlights, it was almost guys who actually went to receiving command of to see the other tower hit what was happening in operation was all of the surreal. It seemed to me the scene initially,” Essig the installation during the (on television),” Essig New York. He made a call troops who were being like a movie set. At that said. “He dispatched summer of 2001, he was remembered. “That’s down to the site between activated and called in to point, it was a 24/7 oper- himself immediately from soon to be a part of an about the time when we the attacks in New York come to Fort Myer. We ation; it never stopped.” his office. He assessed the act of war that brought a thought something was and the actual attack at had to put them some- In the ten years removed scene and made arrange- base’s pride, emotion, and wrong. Then it seemed the Pentagon. He basical- place,” Essig remembered. from the Pentagon attack, ments to bring some national devotion to the like not too long after ly told those guys down “Fort Myer is not terribly Essig noted that the base other engineer equipment forefront. that, we had the explo- there to keep their eyeballs big and we were rather for- has physically changed. down like a bucket loader Essig’s Sept. 11, 2001, sion down at the Pen- peeled. Fortunately that tunate because most of the That fall of 2001, areas of and back hoe. He did started like most other tagon which we heard call happened minutes barracks that were recently Fort Myer now associated some work to support the American’s, as just an and felt. It initially shook before the plane arrived. demolished were vacant at with innocence and leisure fire department and the ordinary work morning, everybody up. Everyone Shortly after that call, the that period of time. What were being used to catalog medical personnel.” but by 9 a.m., a brilliantly was wondering what was guys saw the plane coming we ended up having to do the tragedy and combat As for the garrison as sunny late summer Tues- going on. After that, the right at them.” is roll into these building terrorism. a whole, Essig praised day morning was evolv- garrison pretty much Immediately following and completely try to “Where the Thrift Shop base employees who ing into America’s 21st went into reaction mode. the Pentagon attack, clean and paint and do the is now was the joint prop- performed magnificently century day of infamy. We just started working.” Essig said that the base amount of work necessary erty effects depot,” Essig on Sept. 11, 2001 and “I was in the head- The multi-tiered reaction went to Threat Con Delta to bring these support said. “All the stuff that during the times of sup- quarters [Bldg. 59],” said and endeavor to save lives (the highest alert) and a facilities up to speed.” was found at the site that port after the attacks. Essig who is now retired and fight the Pentagon fire crisis management team Deployed units who wasn’t evidentiary in na- “People who needed to and working as the chief started immediately. was assembled to handle were working 12-16 ture was shipped up here be here were here, and in the operations and Essig recalled that key the emergency. hour shifts at the Penta- – coins, stuff in the office, they stayed as long as support division of the personnel were located “After that, we literally gon crash site slept, ate, any personal items. Every- they needed to stay. In Department of the Ar- throughout the Arlington became the reception showered, mediated, and thing that went up there the early stages, every- my’s Inspector General’s vicinity to assist in fire- center and the inter- prayed at Fort Myer. was cataloged, pictured, body wanted to be a part office in the Pentagon. fighting and search and vening staging base for To the servicemember, cleaned, and some effort of the recovery effort. “The day started like a rescue recoveries. Fitting- operations at the Penta- Essig recalled, all were was made to determine Were people scared? No. usual one. I was having ly the Fort Myer Fire De- gon,” said Essig. “The appreciative of a roof over who owned those things. They were emotional and a meeting with the CID partment was training for Community Center was their heads, a cot to sleep, “I don’t recall the they showed a great deal (Criminal Investigation a scenario which would established as the joint food, and a shower. dates when it took place, of pride and poured a Division). Like many of soon become reality operations center which Day three into the but there was a camou- great amount of sweat.” the other stories you get, while three base firemen is where all the backup rescue recovery, Essig vis- flage-netted radar facility Essig’s outgoing change (the first we heard of the manned the Pentagon’s (institutions) worked like ited the Pentagon crash where the Child Devel- of command at Fort attacks) was the planes heliport station. the FBI and FEMA. site—even after 10 years, opment Center is now. Myer took place in 2004, going into the World “I can’t say enough From Fort Myer, a he can describe his trip There was a firing battery and he retired from the Trade Center, so my staff about the fire department. supply convoy of blankets, down the hill vividly. at Fort McNair. A lot of military in 2009.

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WWW.FALCONSLANDING.ORG –20522 FALCONS LANDING CIRCLE, POTOMAC FALLS, VA 20165 –(703) 832-4960 6 Thursday, September 13, 2018 PENTAGRAM Chaplain’s Corner: A season for remembering

By Chap. (Col.) and birth of my children, national memory and in providence of God in the uge, we can be still, indeed. Steven L. Berry to name a few. To be sure, the very personal memories midst of our most painful One day even the raging JFHQ-NCR and MDW these are memories that are of those whose loved ones times. “Be still and know nations will be quiet and will Command Chaplain pleasant and enduring. were killed in those attacks, that I am God,” it says. “I stand still before God. But, because life is as it is, it surely seems as though will be exalted among the In these days, as we re- Editor’s Note: This story ran not all memories are pleas- these things happened only nations. I will be exalted in member our countrymen in the Pentagram Sept. 9, 2011. ant ones. Some because they yesterday. The raw images the earth.” and our allies whose lives It seems that, for much of are so horrific and cannot of the devastation that lay Though there be hatred, were snatched from them my life, the fall of the year be forgotten. It is with great in the wake of those terri- fear, uncertainty, ruin, and on that September morning has come to me as a season clarity that I remember ble events of 9/11 remin as injustice in the world, this 10 years ago, let us remem- of reflection; remember- where I was and what I was vivid reminders of the de- Psalm teaches me that God ber them lovingly and with ing events and experiences doing on Sept. 11, 2001. structive power of hate, of remains, that he sees and renewed appreciation of that have shaped my life. Probably so do you. On that the paralyzing effect of fear knows those events that our own opportunities to With east, my mind’s eye day, our lives and entire and uncertainty and of the shake our lives to the core. share in their lives. can visualize memories of world in which we lived fragile and transient nature The Psalmist indicates that, And may that remem- fall season past: the sights seemed forever changed. of life. A world, a nation, with a single word, God can brance give rise to hope and smells of the hardwood A decade has passed since a people, individual lives — and one day will — turn in our hearts; hope that and pine in my boyhood that tragic day when Amer- forever changed. What are the darkness into light and will not disappoint; hope home in East Texas, the ica was stricken by the ter- we to do? To whom shall bring peace to what once that looks forward to the wonderful aromas in my rorist attacks on our home- we turn? may have seemed like an day when God will set the grandmother’s kitchen, my land. Ten years. Yet, I dare Psalm 46:10 encourages enduring struggle. Because world aright and make all marriage to my lovely wide say that in our collective our dependence upon the God is our ever-present ref- things new. Pentagon attack hits close to home for Myer military By Spc. Jennifer Lilly Nothing can prepare soldiers, sailors, and Pentagram Staff someone for a tragedy civilians who are missing Writer like the one at the Pen- to eventually make a tagon or the World Trade “check” by their name. Editor’s Note: This story Center. Whether in California originally ran in the Sept. All day Tuesday and or New York, the terror- 21, 2001 issue of the Pen- Wednesday when I ist attacks hit home for tagram. would hear songs like everyone. “They blew up the “God Bless America,” As a soldier, I have had Pentagon. They blew up and “The Star Spangled many late nights trying the Pentagon,” are words Banner,” I would tell to determine where I yelled into my cellphone myself over and over I, and so many of my as I drove down Route 1 again, “Do not cry. You friends, will be in the last Tuesday and saw an are a soldier. You have to next couple of months. explosion. stay Strong.” As a soldier, I try to be I was listening to the People I know tell courageous because I radio about the World stories of being sent to know that the American Trade Center when the the Pentagon for recovery people are relying on PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Aerial view of the Pentagon after the E Ring collapsed Sept. 11, 2001. plane hit the Pentagon missions and being tasked their military to get them at 9:43 a.m. out to “notify the next of through the rough times. My first thought was kin.” These are things that As a soldier, I have the terrorist would hit take a strong-willed and tried to be strong for the Pentagon twice good-hearted person. the Americans who like they had the World After everything — rest peacefully at night Trade Center in New the children crying for because they know that York. This sent a fear their mothers, the sisters they have the strongest through my body I had crying for their brothers military in the world never felt before and — the hardest part that I protecting their home. don’t wish on anyone — have encountered was the I am a soldier. I am except those responsible. first night I went home. strong. I am courageous. I was sure the second Around 11:30 p.m., I consider it an honor to blow would be the side Sept. 11, I walked into serve beside those who I was on because it was my building on Fort are spending their days the opposite side of the Myer where I lived for at these crash sites and first attack. over a year. Signs were experiencing things that After calling everyone hung on the door saying, they will have night- I knew at Fort Myer and “Report to the front mares about for the rest having nobody answer desk.” of their lives. the phone, I finally The non-uniformed I consider it an honor reached my boyfriend sailor at the desk asked to shed tears for my fel- who said that by my me to find my name on low comrades who have screams, he thought I the roster for the build- given their lives to pro- was dying. ing and make a check by tect the nation which we I wasn’t. I was lucky. it. It was at that moment all love and the freedom Granted, I was not in that someone came from we take for granted. the building, and hon- behind and said, “They Today, 10 days after estly, I don’t personally are trying to find out the “Attack on Ameri- know anyone who was who is coming home ca” I know they won’t injured or killed in the tonight and who isn’t.” be checking in with us, travesty, but, like every Like so many patriots but they have made the American, it had a great across the world, I am ultimate “check” for our impact on me. still waiting for those country.

FIRSTHAND was especially difficult site where we had from page 4 to breathe because of assisted victims. Our the smoke and fumes. injuries were primarily These conditions second-degree burns the boots. One of my definitely limited how on our necks and elastic suspenders long we could assist in forearms. In addition, was on fire, which I the rescue. Mark had a laceration stamped out (or so I do remember help- on his hand, Dennis I thought). When I ing three men carry had a sprained ankle was considering how an unconscious man and I had left shoulder best to empty the all the way out to pain. (Note: Mark, debris from my boots, the guardrail beside Dennis and I were I heard a voice back Washington Boule- only wearing T-shirts, outside saying, “We vard. While carrying work trousers, and need help here.” I him, I noticed the boots or heavy shoes think it was at this 4-inch fire hose from at the time of the time that Dennis, our Fort Myer Rescue attack). Mark, and I began to Engine No. 161. That I was grateful — and assemble at the first meant our fellow fire am now amazed — floor windows of the fighters were on the that my injuries were Pentagon (behind the scene. This was a minor. The burns on crash truck). relief because after my forearms and neck We were directly up I called them on the healed quickly. My against the Pentagon radio, I was certain shoulder pain per- building, which was it would be difficult sisted and ultimately on fire with smoke for them to get to the required surgery in pouring heavily from Pentagon because November 2001. The all the windows. The of the traffic. But surgery went well and ground was burning I learned later that the surgeon and I were all around us. A mag- Rescue Engine No. pleased with my recov- nolia tree was burning, 161, Rescue Engine ery from it. which gave a strange No. 162 and the as- I returned back to sensation of flam- sistant chief did not work in February ing “things” floating have difficulty getting 2002, glad to have a in the air — I later to the Pentagon. good job. I am very realized they were By now I feeling the proud of Dennis, magnolia leaves. There effects of exhaustion Mark and myself. I am were several times the from the frantic pace so grateful that none heat was so intense and severe shortness of our fire fighters that I thought my of breath from the lack were seriously injured pants were on fire. It of air at the impact or killed. PENTAGRAM Thursday, September 13, 2018 7 ANC dedicates new Millennium site First in-ground burials, street-naming ceremony part of ceremony

By Jim Dresbach Secretary of the Army Pentagram Staff Mark Esper unveiled Writer the new street marker displaying the names of The 3d U.S. Infan- Lewis and Gifford. try Regiment (The The burial of the Old Guard) Caisson Civil War Union Sol- Platoon, members of diers closed the event The U.S. Army Band with prayers by U.S. “Pershing’s Own”, and Air Force Rabbi (Maj.) Old Guard officers Steven Rein, U.S. Navy played key roles in Chaplain (Cmdr.) the Sept. 6 Arlington John Carter, and U.S. National Cemetery Army Chaplain (Capt.) Millennium section Matthew Whitehead dedication. and remarks from In tandem, a pair Army National Mili- of caissons rode to tary Cemeteries Exec- the site’s Section 81 utive Director Karen bringing the remains of Durham-Aguilera. two unknown Civil War “Lastly today, we will Soldiers for the first lay to final rest two in-ground burials at American patriots,” the new addition. The Durham-Aguilera said. Millennium site is lo- “These two Union cated behind Arlington Soldiers whose date House and Joint Base and time has obscured

Myer-Henderson Hall’s PHOTOS BY JIM DRESBACH their identities will now Old Post Chapel and A tandem detail by The 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon brings the remains of two Civil War lay near others who borders the cemetery’s Union unknown Soldiers to Arlington National Cemetery’s new Millennium addition Sept. 6. The pair of Soldiers were the served and fell in that Section 1 and JBM- first in-ground burials to occur at the site during the day’s dedication. conflict.” HH’s McNair Road. Several inurnments The caissons were ac- and Joint Base My- landscape. member of the U.S. June 29, 2012. A Navy took place in columbar- companied by the U.S. er-Henderson Hall. The names of the Lighthouse Service, Cross medal recipient, ium 11 during the sum- Army Ceremonial Band, “This is a hugely new roadways were which would become Gifford is the first U.S. mer, but the burial of and members of The important project for also introduced to the part of the Coast Marine to be honored the two Civil War Union Old Guard Firing Party. Arlington National public. The roads were Guard. She saved a with a street name in Unknown Soldiers “(The) ceremony Cemetery,” said the dedicated for members dozen people from Arlington National found on the Manassas was unique as it was cemetery’s Deputy of the United States drowning in Rhode Is- Cemetery. Gifford is battlefield were the first the first time in recent Chief of Engineering Coast Guard and land waters during the buried in Arlington’s official burials in the history that two caisson David Fedroff. “Any- Marines. Ida Lewis is 19th century. Section 60. new addition. elements have ridden time we get to increase the first female to have U.S. Marine Gun- Former Army Nation- Pentagram Staff Writer in tandem,” said The our burial capacity an Arlington National nery Sgt. Jonathan W. al Military Cemeteries Jim Dresbach can be Old Guard Director and the opportunity to Cemetery Street named Gifford was killed in Executive Director reached at jdresbach@ of Public Affairs Maj. serve veterans for the after her. She was a action in Afghanistan Kathryn Condon and dcmilitary.com. Stephen C. Von Jett. future is an extreme- “The mission required ly proud time for the increased rehearsals cemetery. Without this and planning, but the project, we estimate end result was abso- the cemetery would lutely stunning and so run out of first-burial moving. Dual funerals opportunities around are relatively common, 2033-2034. With this spouses are often in- expansion, we believe terred together, but to those first-burial op- see both teams cresting portunities will extend the hill really brought out to the early 2040s.” home the significance With the site bordering of this event. It was McNair Road and the truly an honor to be a joint base’s bus lot, the part of laying these two engineers and planners Civil War unknowns to of the new site told rest.” media members a con- The 27-acre expan- science effort was made HEROES DAY sion will offer 27,282 to buffer the cemetery interment spaces either and base with foliage. PATRIOTIC SERIESPRESENTEDBYSAIC above or below ground. “Certainly, we The site features thought about that new roadways, seven during the design,” turf-covered sections Fedroff said of keeping for in-ground burials, the Millennium site four new columbarium serene and secluded SEPTEMBER 9•1:35PM courts, two committal for surviving Families. shelters, and a perim- “There are even trees eter wall columbarium planted along the niche bordering McNair wall (near McNair CHICAGO Road with space for Road) that are soften- VS. cremated remains. The ing and breaking up CUBS project began con- (the landscape).” struction in 2014, and Close to 1,000 trees land parcels used for were planted, and the creation of the new 16,000 bushes, shrubs, FORDISCOUNTED TICKETS, addition came from the and flowers are now a National Park Service part of the Millennium USE CODE: HEROES

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GET YOUR TICKETSAT nationals.com 8 Thursday, September 13, 2018 PENTAGRAM IMCOM welcomes new commanding general By Susan A. Merkner Col. Celia FlorCruz and U.S. Army Installation Sherri Becker, respectively. Management Command Prior to taking command of Public Affairs IMCOM, Becker was chief, Office of Security Coopera- Lt. Gen. Bradley A. Beck- tion-Iraq, U.S. Central Com- er took command of United mand, Iraq. States Army Installation Man- He was commander of the agement Command in ceremo- Joint Force Headquarters-Na- nies Sept. 5 at Joint Base San tional Capital Region and the Antonio-Fort Sam Houston. U.S. Army Military District Becker was promoted to of Washington. He previously lieutenant general immedi- served as the commanding ately before the ceremony by general, U.S. Army Training Gen. Mark A. Milley, Chief of Center and Fort Jackson, Staff of the U.S. Army. South Carolina. He has had Becker replaces Lt. Gen. several joint assignments and Kenneth R. Dahl, who had has served in Iraq and Ko- served IMCOM since No- rea, as well as at Schofield vember 2015. Barracks, Hawaii, and Fort During Becker’s promotion Lewis, Washington. ceremony, Milley said the new Becker’s awards include the IMCOM commander was tal- Distinguished Service Medal ented and humble, a man who (second award), the Defense “is not afraid to speak truth to Superior Service Medal, the PHOTO COURTESY OF IMCOM power. We want servant-leaders The IMCOM guidon changes hands during the change of command Sept. 5. Legion of Merit, the Bronze in our generals.” Star Medal with Oak Leaf At the change of command apply those resources to build Army’s 75 installations. Army,” Becker said. “What Cluster, the Defense Meritori- ceremony, Milley praised IM- an (Security Force Assistance Despite budget cuts and you do every day is truly im- ous Service Medal, the Mer- COM and its employees, thank- Brigade) which is in Afghani- doubling down on multiple pressive. I appreciate all you itorious Service Medal with ing them for generating Army stan today,” Milley said. jobs, IMCOM employees are do to keep the Army strong.” four Oak Leaf Clusters, the readiness by supporting Soldiers, “Every base and installation dedicated professionals who The change of command cer- Army Commendation Medal their Families, and civilians. is important, both in CONUS keep the day-to-day operations emony Sept. 5 included music with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the “Readiness is much more and overseas. Every single going, providing facilities, util- by the 1st Armored Division Army Achievement Medal with than manning, equipping Solder in the Army passes ities, security, and recreational Army Band, the national an- three Oak Leaf Clusters. He and training,” he said. “Sol- through IMCOM at some opportunities, he said. them sung by Sgt. First Class has earned the Combat Action diers can’t focus exclusively point, and IMCOM is re- “IMCOM provides plat- Charmakeitha M. Smith of Badge, Parachutist and Air on their combat mission if sponsible for the readiness of forms for readiness, so our IMCOM, and an invocation by Assault identification badges, they think their Family is in today’s Army.” Soldiers are fit, trained, and IMCOM Command Chaplain and is Ranger qualified. lousy housing, or has inade- Dahl was the first com- ready for combat,” said Dahl, (Col.) Yvonne Hudson. Becker was commissioned quate medical care, or unsafe manding general of IMCOM who will be retiring from ac- IMCOM Command Sgt. as a second lieutenant in the schools for their children.” who was not dual-hatted as tive service later this month. Maj. Melissa A. Judkins field artillery upon gradu- Of the Army’s 1.1 million the Army’s assistant chief of Becker thanked family and participated in the guidon ating from the University of Soldiers, 60 percent are mar- staff for Installation Manage- friends for their support, and exchange ceremony with the California at Davis in 1986 ried and most have at least ment. During his remarks at said Dahl built a great team three generals. The traditional with a bachelor of arts degree two children, Milley said. the ceremony, Dahl thanked at IMCOM. presentation of flowers was in political science. He also Under Dahl’s leadership, the command’s 50,000 “IMCOM touches the lives held to honor the outgoing holds a master’s degree in IMCOM reduced 1,000 po- employees for their role in of every Soldier, civilian, and and incoming commanding political science from Auburn sitions “which allowed us to providing continuity in the their Family members in the generals’ wives, retired Lt. University.

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September is National Preparedness Month, a campaign from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. As Hurricane Flor- ence comes towards the East Coast and possibly have an impact on the National Capital Region, FEMA and Ready Army encourages in- dividuals to be prepared for possible disasters. The Ready Army campaign encourages people to be informed, make a plan, build a kit, and get involved. According to the Ready Army website, people should listen to local mass warning notifications for possible danger and to act when that time occurs. “Stay tuned into what Florence is doing, and check on your neighbors now. Have a plan,” stated MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region III regional ad- ministrator in a statement. “Everyone, especially those who are at greatest risk of being impacted by this storm, should start pre- paring now by seeing what they may need in an emer- gency and preparing for any possible impacts from Florence. Be the help in GRAPHIC COURTESY OF FEMA your neighborhood to en- sure that everyone is taking mine a plan for Families to days. Consider items battery-powered weather • Five-gallon bucket with action to prepare, including remain safe. that do not require radio, battery-powered plastic bags for use as a at risk populations.” In addition to making a cooking and will main- cellphone charger, and portable toilet FEMA suggests download- family plan, Families should tain freshness for several extra batteries • Cash in small denomi- ing their app, listening to also build a kit to include months such as canned • First aid kit and pre- nations the local radio, and signing items that may be needed food, energy bars, freeze scription medications Finally, besides preparing up for Wireless Emergency in case of an emergency. dried foods, and dehy- • Sanitation supplies such their own Families, indi- Alerts. Ready Army suggests that drated foods. as moist towelettes, viduals should help prepare Families should also make there should be enough to • Formula and diapers for disinfectant, and garbage their communities. FEMA a plan for different situa- last three days. Some of the infants bags suggests people check with tions, and know how to get items that the website sug- • Food, water, other sup- • Important documents in their local officials for what in contact with one another gests includes: plies, and documents for watertight packaging — resources and plans there and what roles people would • Water — at least one gal- pets personal, financial, and are in place as well as check have. Ready Army said lon per person per day • Manual can opener insurance on their neighbors. thinking of the “five Ws” for at least three days • Flashlight, National • Local maps and com- Pentagram Staff Writer Ab- (who, what, when, where, • Food — nonperishable Oceanic and Atmo- mand reporting informa- igail Kelly can be reached at and why) will help deter- food for at least three spheric Administration tion [email protected].

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New chapel service kitchen. like to donate annual leave, please complete OPM A new monthly nondenominational service is For more information or to place an order, call 630b, “Request to Donate Annual Leave to Leave being held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. This (703) 524-0200. Recipient Under the Voluntary Leave Transfer service will meet Wednesdays, monthly at the Fort Program (Outside Agency),” at www.opm.gov/ Myer Community Center. The US Army Blues at VCU Wednesday forms/pdf_fill/opm630b.pdf. For more information, contact the chaplain’s The Virginia Commonwealth University Jazz For those who wish to donate, please be sure office at (703) 696-3535. Studies program will host the U.S. Army Blues to populate the form with Jones’ name specifi- Jazz Ensemble in a performance at VCU’s Sonia cally. Send completed form to Michael King at Reading mentor, lunch buddies’ program Vlahcevic Concert Hall at 8 p.m. Wednesday. [email protected] or David Fertig at Active duty service members have an opportu- [email protected]. nity to volunteer in a mentorship capacity for ele- The US Army Blues at SAAM Take 5 Jazz mentary school students at Long Branch Elemen- Concert Series Weekly Bible study tary School through Marine Corps Community Relax and “Take 5” Sept. 20 at 5 p.m. with free, The JFHQ-NCR/MDW Chaplains Office hosts a Services. Service members are invited to either live jazz in the Kogod Courtyard at the Smithsonian weekly Bible study Mondays from noon to 1 p.m. read with students or be a lunch buddy. American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. The The Bible study takes place in the JFHQ-NCR/ The program occurs two Tuesdays each month, 1930s were the golden age of the American popular MDW Command Chaplain’s Conference room based on the volunteer’s schedule. The reading song. This concert with the Night and Day Quintet inside the Bldg. 48 annex on Fort McNair. mentoring program occurs from 2 to 2:45 p.m. focuses on the music of George and Ira Gershwin, Lunch will be provided. All NCR service mem- and the lunch buddies’ program is from noon Richard Rogers and Lorenz Hart, and Cole Porter. bers, DOD civilians, and military dependent who to 1:10 p.m. for fourth-and fifth-grade students. The warmth, wit, and swing of these tunesmiths are interested are welcome to attend. There is an opportunity to come earlier around 11 make for an unforgettable evening featuring works For more information, contact Spc. Darrell a.m. to serve as a lunch buddy for other grades. from Great American Songbook. Lipscomb at (760) 403-9716 or darrell.lipscomb. Those interested in volunteering should contact [email protected]. MCCS school liaison officer, Amy Fishman at The US Army Blues Swamp Romp at Ken- amy.fi[email protected]. nedy Center EEO training rescheduled Save the date. The U.S. Army Blues Swamp EEO training has been rescheduled to Sept. 25 Redskins’ tickets available Romp is scheduled to provide a free performance at the Fort Myer Community Center. The training The JBM-HH Ticket Office still has tickets for at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage at 6 session for employees will be held at 9:30 a.m. and the season opener of the Washington Redskins p.m. Sept. 22. 1 p.m. for supervisors and managers. versus Indianapolis Colts Sunday. Tickets are sold The Sept. 25 offering will be the last EEO Work- in pairs only, Cost per pair $270 per pair. Seats are Zembiec Pool open force Training for fiscal year 2018. in section 129 lower level end zone. Tickets can The Zembiec Pool is open Monday through be purchased over the phone by calling (703)696- Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Toastmasters seeks members 3470 or in person at the JBM-HH Community holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Pentagon Legacy Toastmasters is seeking Center. new individuals to join. Toastmasters helps indi- Welcome aboard orientation viduals with public speaking. Oprah Winfrey was Tricare Online Patient Portal The next two Henderson Hall orientations are once a member of the group. The Tricare Online Patient Portal allows indi- scheduled for Friday and Sept. 21 from 8 to 11 Toastmasters holds weekly meetings every viduals to safely and securely access their med- a.m. in Henderson Hall Bldg. 29, room 105. Wel- Tuesday from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. in the Pentagon, ical information, make appointments, request come aboard orientation is to inform new individ- bottom floor behind the food court. Individuals prescription refills and test results, and connect uals of all programs and benefits available to them need to enter through the Visitor’s Center and can then with Relay Health secure messaging and in the National Capital Region. Set Aside Pro- be unaccompanied with a CAC or call a member the Nurse Advice Line. Sign up today, by visiting gram, Child Care Subsidy programs, Mass Transit to be escorted in. www.tricareonline.com. Benefits, Single Marine Program, Marine Corps For more information, contact Toastmasters’ Exchange, Tricare, lifelong learning, and more. President Yvonne Hay at (973) 757-3609, Carl Sa- Integrated Referral Management and Ap- For more information, call (703) 696-9197 or bath by email at [email protected] or Vice pointment Center visit www.mccshh.com. President of Public Relations Jina Noeth by calling If an individual has an appointment, question (571) 320-9659 or by email at [email protected]. about a referral, or military health care provider, Salute to Sunset Concert Series he or she can call the Integrated Referral Manage- Enjoy performances by bands from the nation’s Prostate cancer support group ment Appointment Center at (855) 227-6331. armed forces, including The United States Army meetings at Fort Belvoir Band, at National Harbor this summer. The free The prostate cancer support group meets at Relay Health Secure Messaging shows take place on the National Harbor Plaza Fort Belvoir Community Hospital the second Tricare Prime enrollees at Andrew Rader U.S. stage every Saturday night, through Sept. 23. Thursday of every month. The next meeting will Army Health Clinic can message their provider be Thursday from 1 to 2 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. team to request test results, prescription refills, FLEP available for eligible officers in the Urology Clinic, Sunrise Pavilion, second and exchange documents. Stop by the front desk Interested in joining the Army Judge Advocate floor. Spouses/partners are invited. Military ID is to sign up. General’s Corps? Eligible officers may apply for required for installation access. For those without the 2018 Army Funded Legal Education Program a military ID, arrive at the gate one hour prior to Nurse Advice Line board until Nov. 1. If selected, officers will attend meeting to complete paperwork for base access. The Nurse Advice Line, available at no cost to a civilian law school beginning in the fall 2019 and For more information, contact Jane Hudak at beneficiaries, helps callers make informed deci- serve as a judge advocate after they successfully (301) 319-2918 or [email protected]. sions about self-care at home or when to see a complete law school and are admitted to practice health care provider, available 24 hours a day, law in a U.S. state. Prostate cancer support group seven days a week. Please call (800) 874-2273. Commissioned officers in the ranks of second meetings at Walter Reed lieutenant and captain, who have two to six years The prostate cancer support group meets at Patient Navigator Program of active federal service as of Sept. 1, 2019, are Walter Reed National Military Medical Center the For individuals new to the National Capital Re- encouraged to apply and be considered for accep- third Thursday of every month. The next meet- gion with questions about medical services, there tance. Interested officers can find detailed FLEP ing will be Sept. 20 from 1 to 2 p.m. and 6:30 to are services available. The members of the Patient eligibility criteria and application procedures in 7:30 p.m. in America Building, River Conference Family Advisory Council have graciously volun- Army MILPER Message 18-081, and in AR 27-1, Room, third floor. Spouses/partners are invited. teered to help individuals with their extensive Chapter 10. Additionally, the “Army FLEP” Face- Military ID is required for base access to Walter knowledge of the Military Health System. book group is a venue to ask questions and share Reed. For those without a military ID, call the For more information, please call (703) 696-7933. information with past, present, and prospective Prostate Center at (301) 319-2900 at least four FLEP judge advocates. business days prior to event for access. JBM-HH basketball tryouts For more information, contact, Lt. Col. Andrew For more information, contact Jane Hudak at Tryouts are being held for the JBM-HH men’s Atkins, deputy staff judge advocate, Military Dis- (301) 319-2918 or [email protected]. varsity basketball team. A valid CAC is needed to trict of Washington, by email at andrew.r.atkins. be on the team. Tryout dates are Saturday from [email protected]. Chapel providing opportunities 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Henderson Hall gym; The Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Memorial Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Fort Myer Civilian leave assist Chapel has available opportunities in the following gym; and Sept. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the JBM-HH Central Issue Facility employee communities: Catholic, Protestant, and Gospel. Fort Myer gym. Elbert Jones, has been approved to receive leave These are paid positions. under the Volunteer Leave Program. A medical For more information, contact Sgt. 1st Class Pe- Food-To-Go emergency has caused him to exhaust his leave. dro Reyes by calling (703) 696-7672 or by email Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall now has a Department of the Army civilian employees who at [email protected]. curbside food pick-up service originating from would like to donate annual leave are asked to fill Fort Myer’s Patton Hall. out form OPM630a, “Request to Donate Annual Notification of death This service is called “Food-To-Go” and is the Leave to Leave Recipient Under the Volunteer Anyone with debts owed to or by the estate of newest Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recre- Leave Transfer Program (Within Agency),” at Sgt. Aaron Schwitters, U.S. Army Garrison Head- ation program. The concept is to provide conve- www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/opm630a.pdf. quarters Battalion, must contact Capt. Jonathon nient, first-class meals right to the patron’s car For federal government civilian employees Bruister, the summary-court officer for the Sol- door, which will be prepared in the Patton Hall outside the Department of the Army who would dier. Schwitters passed away Aug. 23.

Apartments Unfurnished Lost & Found Cat Found BUY SELL RENT HIRE Equal Housing St. Andrews Road in St Mary’s County: Gray Tabby wearing a All Real Estate advertised collar. Friendly and talkative. herein is subject to the Federal Please call 301-475-3277, leave Fair Housing Act which makes message describing your cat it illegal to indicate any prefer- and include your phone number TRADE SHOP SWAP FIND ence, limitation, or discrimina- if you think this could be your tion based on sex, handicap, cat. familial status, or national ori- gin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation, SOUTHERN or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertis- RENT HIRE ing for Real Estate which is in violation of the law. All persons, are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are avail- TRADE SHOP MARYLAND CLASSIFIED able on an equal opportunity basis. If you believe you have been discriminated against in connection with the sale, rent- SWAP FIND al, or fi nancing of housing, call TO PLACE YOUR AD the United States Department of Housing and Urban Devel- TO PLACE YOUR AD opment at 1-800-669-9777. CALL 301-645-0900 CALL 1-301-645-0900 12 Thursday, September 13, 2018 PENTAGRAM

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