IMCOM Welcomes New Commander News

Friday, September 7, 2018 Volume 11, Issue 32

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

Benelux News Briefs Post Offices On Sept. 14, the blue postal letter drop boxes on SHAPE near building 210 and 318 will be removed. To drop off outgoing letter mail, customers may continue to use the outgoing letter box inside the SHAPE Post Office with 24/7 access. On Chièvres, the letter dropbox in front of the Com- missary will be relocated to the Barracks to allow service members living there easier access to mail outbound let- ters. In the future, the brand new Chièvres Post Office will have an outgoing letter box located inside with 24/7 access. In the meantime, the letter dropbox on Daumerie will remain in use until the move to Chièvres. Office Hours for Veterans An accredited veterans service officer will have office hours Sept. 14 at the Ameri- can Legion Office in Brussels Bldg. 3 to help all veterans with their VA Disability claims and other benefits. Contact serviceofficer.arc.be@gmail. com or flanders.fields.post. [email protected].

Table of Contents IMCOM welcomes new commander News...... 2-6 Outgoing U.S. Army Installation Management Command Lt. Gen. Kenneth R. Dahl passes the guidon to Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Gen. Mark A. Milley during the ceremony where Lt. Gen. Bradley A. Inside the Gate...... 7-10 Becker took command Sept. 5, 2018 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. (U.S. Army photo by Susan A. Merkner) Outside the Gate...... 11-13 See Page 3 September 7, 2018 Schinnen DPW employee to compete in the 2018 Invictus Games

By Frits Verschuure and Rita Hoefnagels

It only happened to a selected few Dutch military veterans, and Henry van Diesen was one of them. Van Diesen, employed at the Directorate of Public Works Operations and Maintenance Division in Schinnen, was invited to participate in the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney. Van Diesen is a former improvised explosive device expert with the Dutch 11th Air Mobile Brigade. During one of his deployments in Afghanistan, he was badly injured. He had to go through several years of recovery and switched to civilian life. This switch was not easy, but after he was offered a job in Schinnen, life started to look up again for him. Van Diesen is a staunch cyclist which helped him during his recovery. His training and athleticism was noticed by the Dutch Ministry of Defense. It resulted in him being selected for the Dutch Invictus team. The Dutch team consists of 24 veterans who will compete in different sports. Van Diesen will participate in two different speed cycling disciplines, two athletics disciplines and one driving challenge with off-road 4x4 vehicles. The Invictus Games were founded by His Royal Highness Prince Harry of the United Kingdom. During his deployments as a military officer, he noticed how hard and difficult it was for veterans to pick up their life again after returning home injured, either physically or mentally. He started the Invictus Games to bring veterans together from around the globe to compete, and most of all, to give them self- esteem, motivation and life. This year’s games are held Oct. 20 to 28 in Sydney. Teams from 17 countries, among U.S. and Canada, will participate in the games. Van Diesen is a well-liked colleague, and the entire O&M team in Schinnen is extremely proud to see him travel Henry van Diesen, employed at the Directorate of Public Works’ Operations to Sydney soon. The O&M team says that they will support and Maintenance Division in Schinnen, prepares to participate in the 2018 and motivate Van Diesen in every way possible. u Invictus Games in Sydney. (Courtesy photo)

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

[2] September 7, 2018 IMCOM welcomes new CG Becker

By Susan A. Merkner U.S. Army Installation Management Command

Lt. Gen. Bradley A. Becker took command of United States Army Installation Management Command in ceremonies Sept. 5 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Becker was promoted to lieutenant general immediately before the ceremony by Gen. Mark A. Milley, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. A change of command ceremony for Installation Management Command Becker replaces Lt. Gen. Kenneth R. Dahl, who had was held Sept. 5, 2018 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. (U.S. Army photo served IMCOM since November 2015. by Susan A. Merkner) During Becker’s promotion ceremony, Milley said the new IMCOM commander was talented and humble, a man Col. Yvonne Hudson. who “is not afraid to speak truth to power. We want servant- IMCOM Command Sgt. Maj. Melissa A. Judkins participated leaders in our generals.” in the guidon exchange ceremony with the three generals. At the change of command ceremony, Milley praised The traditional presentation of flowers was held to honor IMCOM and its employees, thanking them for generating the outgoing and incoming commanding generals’ wives. Army readiness by supporting Soldiers, their families and Prior to taking command of IMCOM, Becker was chief, Office civilians. “Readiness is much more than manning, equipping of Security Cooperation-Iraq, U.S. Central Command, Iraq. and training. Soldiers can’t focus exclusively on their combat He was commander of the Joint Force Headquarters — mission if they think their family is in lousy housing, or National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District has inadequate medical care, or unsafe schools for their of Washington. He previously served as the commanding children,” he said. general, U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson, South "Of the Army’s 1.1 million Soldiers, 60 percent are married Carolina. He has had several joint assignments and has and most have at least two children," Milley said. served in Iraq and Korea, as well as at Schofield Barracks, Under Dahl’s leadership, IMCOM reduced 1,000 positions Hawaii, and Fort Lewis, Washington. “which allowed us to apply those resources to build an SFAB Becker’s awards include the Distinguished Service Medal (Security Force Assistance Brigade) which is in Afghanistan (second award), the Defense Superior Service Medal, the today,” Milley said. Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, “Every base and installation is important, both in the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service CONUS and overseas,” Milley said. “Every single Solder in Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation the Army passes through IMCOM at some point, and IMCOM Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Army Achievement Medal is responsible for the readiness of today’s Army.” with three Oak Leaf Clusters. He has earned the Combat Dahl was the first commanding general of IMCOM who Action Badge, Parachutist and Air Assault identification was not dual-hatted as the Army’s Assistant Chief of Staff for badges, and is Ranger qualified. Installation Management. During his remarks at the ceremony, Becker was commissioned as a second lieutenant in Dahl thanked the command’s 50,000 employees for their the field artillery upon graduating from the University of role in providing continuity in the Army’s 75 installations. California at Davis in 1986 with a bachelor of arts degree Despite budget cuts and doubling down on multiple in political science. He also holds a master’s degree in jobs, IMCOM employees are dedicated professionals who political science from Auburn University. keep the day-to-day operations going, providing facilities, IMCOM became an independent command reporting utilities, security and recreational opportunities, he said. directly to the Chief of Staff of the Army in the fall of 2015. “IMCOM provides platforms for readiness, so our Soldiers Its geographic regions in the continental United States are fit, trained and ready for combat,” said Dahl, who will (CONUS) were reorganized into three directorates based be retiring from active service later this month. on function — Readiness, Sustainment and Training — and Becker thanked family and friends for their support and co-located with their supported Army commands (Forces said Dahl built a great team at IMCOM. Command, Army Materiel Command, and Training and “IMCOM touches the lives of every Soldier, civilian and Doctrine Command, respectively). The IMCOM directorates their family members in the Army,” Becker said. “What you outside CONUS were already located with the Army Service do every day is truly impressive. I appreciate all you do to Component Commands they support in Europe and the keep the Army strong.” Pacific. The U.S. Army Environmental Command is also an The change of command ceremony Sept. 5 included IMCOM organization and was represented in the ceremony music by the First Armored Division Army Band, the national by its commander and command sergeant major. All IMCOM anthem sung by Sgt. First Class Charmakeitha M. Smith of directorates were represented at the Sept. 5 ceremony by IMCOM, and an invocation by IMCOM Command Chaplain their directors and command sergeant majors.u

[3] September 7, 2018 Logistic Readiness Center - Benelux pillar gets ready to retire after 40 years of service By Rabia Coombs 405th Army Field Support Brigade

One of the few constant in logistical support in the past than any person I have ever seen," said Col. Grant L. Morris, four decades at the Logistic Readiness Center Benelux is commander, 405th AFSB, said, highlighting Boisdenghien's about to change. dedication and accomplishments following a site visit. Christian Boisdenghien, chief, supply and services division, In the past 16 years, Boisdenghien earned nine European 405th Army Field Support Brigade Logistics Readiness Center Winner of Supply Excellence awards, culminating in two -- Benelux, will retire after more than 40 years of highly Department of the Army level wins and two runner-ups. Lt. decorated service to the U.S. Army. Gen. Robert Wilson, commanding general of the Installation Boisdenghien, who reached his 40th year of service on Management Agency, now Installation Management Command, July 1, has been a true constant and has done it all when recognized Boisdenghien's accomplishments with the Stalwart it comes to logistical services award in 2006. The award and supplies. recognizes employees who "I have spent 40 years in the distinguish themselves among same building but I took each their peers and leaders as and every step, every function outstanding IMCOM civilians falling under the supplies and and exceed the call of duty services division," Boisdenghien to achieve Army and IMCOM said. He was responsible for the objectives. management of the installation "I don't see it as a single property book office supply accomplishment; it is my team support activity, and for the that earned the awards. You hazardous material and central need the opportunity, a bit issue facility operations for of luck and the right people," the entire Benelux community said Boisdenghien about his - including the Supreme achievements. Headquarters of the Allied His advice to his successor is Powers of Europe, Chievres Army to take the time to observe the Base, Brussels community, and procedures in place and learn Schinnen community. about the environment. "Here, In almost 15 years of in Brussels, or in Schinnen, being chief of the supply and the capability to adapt and services division, Boisdenghien interpret official guidelines provided continuous support is important. Go by the rule during personnel turnovers of of the trade, do what is safe, key vacancies, including all of do what is right and do what the logistics readiness centers' is legal," Boisdenghien said. branch chiefs. He acted as Lockhart Simpson, a fellow interim installation property division chief at LRC - Benelux, book officer for four years worked side by side with and executed the transfer of Christian Boisdenghien, chief, supply and services division, 405th AFSB Boisdenghien for more than Logistics Readiness Center - Benelux, is set to retire Sept. 30 after responsibility of the Army fuel more than 40 years of highly decorated service to the U.S. Army. (U.S. two years. station to the Air Force. Army photo) "We will miss his institutional As project officer for the knowledge, for one, but also centralization of all supply service division functions, his ability to connect with people." said Simpson. "He holds Boisdenghien created a one-stop service center for all the unofficial position of senior host nation employee. He customers and facilitated the transition from the Installation has the ability to relate to all employees and is our go-to Management Command to the Army Martial Command. He (person) when it comes to host nation concerns." also coordinated the loan of 1,500 Improved Outer Tactical Boisdenghien's official retirement date is Sept. 30. "I Vests from the U.S Army Europe to the Belgian Army. will miss the various facets of my work, the people I work "Mr. Boisdenghien has not only served the Army for 40 with and work for, but I am moving forward to spend more years but has won more excellence awards from the Army time traveling and visiting my family," he said.u

[4] September 7, 2018 September highlights awareness of foodborne illnesses

By Kevin L. Robinson DeCA Public Affairs

Keeping foodborne illnesses at bay is a constant job, one shared by retailers and consumers alike, Defense Commis- sary Agency officials say. “Commissaries inspect the product pipeline, from the farm to the supplier to the store shelf,” said Col. Alisa R. Wilma, director of DeCA’s Public Health and Safety. “However, that responsibility doesn’t stop with our military veterinarians and store food safety specialists. Our patrons also have a responsibility to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses that could result from mishandling food.” In observance of Food Safety Education Month in Sep- tember, DeCA joins the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Courtesy graphic. the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety Inspection Service, the Department of Health and Human Services and during a long trip to help prevent spoilage by maintaining other organizations to help prevent foodborne illnesses by proper temperatures of foods on the trip home. increasing awareness of improperly handling food items. “Preventing cross contamination is also very important,” According to the CDC, each year an estimated one-in-six she said. “That’s why patrons must keep different perishable Americans get sick while 3,000 die from foodborne illnesses. foods separated, whether the groceries are in the shopping The five most common illnesses are listeria, salmonella, E. cart or in the car.” coli, vibrio vulnificus and botulism. A few more tips for handling food safely can be found at “We preach the ‘Be Food Safe’ guidelines because they’re www.homefoodsafety.org: an easy tool for our patrons to use at home in reducing the • Use hand sanitizer to wipe hands and the handle of the risk of foodborne illnesses,” Wilma said. “You’d be surprised shopping cart. how many potential problems can be prevented just by wash- • Clean hands before sampling food. Either bring moist ing your hands before, during and after handling food.” towelettes or carry a bottle of hand sanitizer to use before The “Be Food Safe” message, developed by the CDC and you taste. the USDA, is simple: clean, separate, cook and chill. They • If you use reusable grocery bags, wash them often. are the basis for the following safe handling techniques: • Check food packages for holes, tears or openings. Frozen CLEAN foods should be solid with no signs of thawing. • Wash hands with warm soapy water for 20 seconds • Check for a loose lid on jars whose seals seem tam- before and after handling raw meat, poultry or seafood. pered with or damaged. Report a defective cap to the store • Wash utensils, cutting boards, dishes and countertops manager. with hot soapy water after preparing each food item and • Avoid buying cans that are deeply dented, bulging, rust- before you go on to prepare the next item. ing or have a dent on either the top or side seam. • Food contact surfaces can be sanitized with a freshly • Use plastic bags to separate raw meat, poultry and made solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine seafood before placing them in your cart to avoid contami- bleach in 1 gallon of water. nating ready-to-eat foods like bread or produce. SEPARATE • When shopping, select perishable foods last before • Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from other checkout and group them together. foods in your grocery shopping cart and in your refrigerator. • Take groceries home immediately and store them right • If possible, use one cutting board for fresh produce and away. If on an extended trip, bring a cooler with chill packs a separate one for raw meat, poultry and seafood. for perishable foods. Perishable foods must be refrigerated • Never place cooked food on a plate that previously held within two hours and only one hour if it is over 90 F outside. raw meat, poultry or seafood. • Keep perishable foods out of the hot trunk in summer COOK and place in the air-conditioned car instead. • Cook poultry to a safe minimum internal temperature The DeCA website is a good resource for food safety. To of 165 F as measured with a food thermometer. find the latest food safety alerts and product recalls affecting CHILL military commissaries, visit the News Room on commissar- • Chill food promptly and properly. Refrigerate or freeze ies.com and select the box that says “Food Recall.” perishables, prepared foods and leftovers within two hours For more on food safety awareness, go to the CDC website. (or one hour if temperatures are above 90 F). Information on food handling techniques is also available Wilma said commissary patrons should always bring a cooler at Eatright.org.u

[5] September 7, 2018 Newcomers, community members enjoy the 2018 Brussels Welcome Expo Special to the Gazette

The NATO Joint Top-III Association hosted the Welcome to the Benelux Expo in Brussels Aug. 31 at the 3 Star Recreation Center. Representatives from different organizations met with newcomers and community members and provided them with valuable information. Garrison leaders, including Col. Sean Kuester, commander for U.S. Army Garrison Benelux, and Mr. Raymond My- ers, deputy garrison manager in Brussels, were present to talk to attendees. The event also featured a community pot luck dinner and musical entertainment. For information on upcoming events in Brussels, go to https://brussels.armymwr.com. (U.S. Army photos by Monica Young)

Special to the Gazette SHAPE Fest 2018

On Sept. 7 and 8, don't miss the SHAPE • 10 p.m. - 11 p.m.: Fireworks Fest 2018 with international food and • 10:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.: DJ David Goyens drinks from NATO nations, activity play- at the B3's - After hours party park, live music, entertainment, and ZONE C - 2nd STAGE more activities: Friday, Sept. 7 SHAPE FEST TENT • 4 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.: Lucky Swing Friday, Sept. 7 Jazz Band • 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.: The Ramblers • 4:45 p.m. - 6:10 p.m.: Closer • 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.: So Pink Size • 6:15 - 7 p.m.: Lucky Swing Jazz Band • 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.: Task Force X Saturday, Sept. 8 • 10 p.m. - 11 p.m.: DJ Nico Spider • Noon - 1 p.m.: Karisma • 11 p.m. - midnight: DJ Nico Spider • 1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.: Balkazar Project and DJ Nicki Sanchez • 1:30 p.m. - 2:15: Lucky Swing Jazz • Midnight - 1 a.m.: DJ Nicki Sanchez Band • 1 a.m. - 2 a.m.: DJ Nico Spider • 2:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.: Balkazar • 2 a.m.: Tent closes down Courtesy graphic from Shape2day.com Project Saturday, Sept. 8 • 3:45 p.m. - 4:20 p.m.: SHAPE • 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.: SHAPE International International Choir Band • 4:20 p.m. - 5:10 p.m.: Lucky Swing Jazz Band • 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.: SHAPE International Band and SHAPE • 5:10 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.: Balkazar Project International Choir • 6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Lucky Swing Jazz Band • 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.: The Ramblers • 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.: Balkazar Project • 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Soul Factory Sponsors are responsible for their visitors while they • 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.: Happy Hours are on the base. Visit www.shape2day.com for more in- • 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.: Task Force X formation. u

[6] September 7, 2018 ALL COMMUNITIES American Legion "Flanders Field" Post BE02 • Oratorical Scholarship Contest - The American Legion "Flanders Field" Post BE02 announced its 6th Annual Oratorical Scholarship Contest - A Constitutional Speech Contest. The contest is scheduled Dec. 8 at the Brussels American High School Multipurpose Room. Eligible participants must be citizens or lawful permanent residents of the U.S. All contestants must be bona fide students herein described as any student under the age 20 on the date of the national contest who is presently enrolled in a high school or junior high school (public, parochial, military, private or home school), commencing with grade nine and terminating with grade 12. For more information, contact the Oratorical Contest team at [email protected] or visit https://postbe02oratoricalcontest.weebly.com. 2018 U.S. Elections • If you want to vote in this year's elections, please make sure that you register for an absentee ballot. Even if you registered for an absentee ballot in previous elections, please remember that most states require voter registration to be updated or validated annually. This can be done by completing the Federal Post Card Application, or FPCA, and sending it to the elections administrator in your state. For more information, contact the voting assistance officer for USAG Benelux, at DSN 366-6192 o +32(0)65-326192 or visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program website at www.fvap.gov. Government Driver's License • Per Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) decision, the Army Accident Avoidance Training online is no longer required to obtain a government vehicle driver's license. For more information, call DSN 366-6603. The following are VTC-projected classes. For information about and to register for VTC classes, contact Army Community Service at your location: • For SHAPE: DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824 • For Brussels: DSN 368-9783 or +32 (0)2-7179783 • For Schinnen: DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)46-4437500 Sept. 11 and 25 • Couple's Communication - The class will be from 10 a.m. to noon. BRUSSELS COMMUNITY See also above in "All Communities." 24-Hour Fitness • Eligible users may register their ID card to gain entry into the Brussels Fitness Center during non-regular hours. Patrons will be able to knock out some cardio, lift weights, and improve their overall fitness and health. To get access, visit the Brussels Fitness Center or call DSN 368-9667 or + 32 (0)2-717-9667. Every Monday and Thursday • Lunchtime Yoga - Relax and refresh during the work day from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brussels Fitness Inside the Gate Center. For more information, call DSN 368-9667 or +32 (0)2-7179667. Every Thursday and Friday • Community Movie Night - Enjoy free entertainment at the 3 Star Recreation Center starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. Every Friday • 3 Star Recreation Night - Join the Brussels community for games, cards, music and movies starting at 5 p.m. at the 3 Star Recreation Center. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Line dancing will start at 7 p.m. on the first and third Friday of the month. Karaoke will be held on the second and fourth Friday of the month starting at 6 p.m. U.S. Military, NATO, U.S. Embassy and mission cardholders are welcome. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. Sept. 7 • Flag Football Intramural League Sign-ups - League will run from September through October. Registration deadline is Sept. 7. If you are age 18 and older, graduated from high school and love flag football, the league is for you! U.S., NATO, U.S. Embassy and U.S. Mission are welcome. For more information, call the Brussels Fitness Center at DSN 366-9667 or +32 (0)2-7179667. Sept. 8 • 9/11 Remembrance Run - From 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Each participant will receive a free t-shirt. For more information, call the Brussels Fitness Center at DSN 368-9667 or +32 (0)2717-9667. Sept. 9 • Family Games Day - Held at the Brussels Library from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spend time with family and friends playing classic board and card games. Light refreshments will be served. No registration is necessary. For more information, call DSN 368-9791 or +32 (0)2-717-9791.

[7] September 7, 2018 Sept. 20 • Canvas and Corkscrews - Held at the 3 Star Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy conviviality and creativity as you paint and enjoy a glass of wine while putting brush to canvas. Entry is $35, with painting supplies. For more information, contact DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)27-17-9822. SCHINNEN/BRUNSSUM COMMUNITY See also page 7 in "All Communities." Closure • The IACS Office at the MP Station in Schinnen will be closed Sept. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. AAFES – Schinnen Troop Store • All MCSS merchandise – Army & Air Force – will be moving from the Schinnen Exchange to the Military Clothing Sales Store on Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base. Please excuse the inconvenience. To keep informed on this and other events in-store, “like” the Schinnen Troop Store Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SchinnenTroopStore/. Through Sept. 15 • Bowling Center - Kids bowl free at the Schinnen Bowling Center with a Bowling Pass. Registration is open until Sept. 15. To sign up, go to www.kidsbowlfree.com/Army. Sept. 11 • Commander’s Cup Challenge - The Schinnen Fitness Center will start the Commander's Cup Challenge again, offering teams and individuals challenges to secure the Commander's Cup trophy. The first event of this challenge will kick off with 5K Fun Run/Walk Event. Show time is 9 a.m. The run will starts at 9:15 a.m. from the Schinnen Fitness Center. This event is also in memory of 9/11. Competition is not the priority. The fun and benefits of putting some exercise into a routine are at the top of the list. For more information and any updates needed, please stop by the fitness center or call DSN 360-7561 or +31 (0)46-4437561. Sept. 19-20 • Veterans Affairs Visit - Are you a service member or veteran with questions regarding VA benefits? Make a one-on-one appointment! Veterans Affairs (VA) will have a representative at the JFC Brunssum Library Conference Room from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to meet with anyone who would like a one-on-one appointment. If you have any questions about your veteran's benefits, now or in the future, this is the person to speak with. To schedule an appointment, call DSN 606-2443848 or +31 (0)45-5263848.

Inside the Gate Sept. 20-21 • Host Nation Newcomer’s Orientation & Cultural Tour - From 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Schinnen ACS. All newcomers and spouses are invited to learn about their new community, including local customs, culture, and language. On day one, explore the Dutch culture with an introduction to the language and get an over- view of Tri-Border services. On day two, go beyond the gate to visit a few local attractions and shopping areas and learn how to use the local train system. For more information or to register, call DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)46-4437500. Sept. 21 • American Legion Post NL01 General Membership Meeting - Held in the Schinnen classroom (Bldg. 3) at 5 p.m. Chartered by The American Legion National Headquarters, the Margraten Post was formed by veterans to help fellow veterans, their families, widows of veterans and orphans. Oct. 11 • HOPE 205K Domestic Violence Walk/Run - The event will start at 9:15 a.m. Show time is 9 a.m. Please wear purple to say "Abuse is never okay!" For more information, please stop by the Schinnen Fitness Center or call DSN 360-7561 or +31 (0)46-4437561. Oct. 19 • U.S. Military Retiree Appreciation Day - All U.S. military retirees and their spouses are invited to attend the USAG Benelux U.S. Military Retiree Appreciation Day at the Community Activity Center in Bldg. 38 on Schinnen from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Representatives will be there to answer questions and provide information regarding TRICARE, health and wellness, legal services, banking services, dental, VA benefits, ID Cards, and Army Community Service. Information regarding various retiree membership organizations will also be available. Come for the information, come for the food, or just come to socialize with fellow retirees and have fun. RSVP by calling DSN 606-2443848 or +31 (0)45-5263848.

[8] September 7, 2018 Oct. 22 - Nov. 23 • Co-ed Basketball Open Enrollment - For ages 3 to 15. Held at the Child and Youth Services on JFC Brunssum, Bldg. H602. This is for the Jan. 15 to Feb. 23 season. Cost is $25 for children age 3 to 5 years and $45 for children age 6 to 15. You must be registered with CYS and have a valid health assessment at the time of enrollment. Volunteer coaches are needed! Contact Parent Central Services for more information or details at DSN 606-2443121 or +31 (0)45-5263121/4195. Open to all U.S. and NATO ID cardholders. • Jr. Girls Basketball Open Enrollment - For ages 13 to 15. Held at the Child and Youth Services on JFC Brunssum, Bldg. H602. This is for the Jan. 15 to Feb. 23 season. Cost is $45. You must be registered with CYS and have a valid health assessment at the time of enrollment. Volunteer coaches are needed! Contact Parent Central Services for more information or details at DSN 606-244-3121 or +31 (0)45-5263121/4195. Open to all U.S. and NATO ID cardholders. Spaces are limited. Oct. 22 - Nov. 24 • Snowboarding Winter Clinic Open Enrollment For ages 10 to 18. Held at the Child and Youth Services on JFC Brunssum, Bldg. H602. Clinic dates are Dec. 5 & 12, Jan. 9, 16, 23 & 30, and Feb. 6. Cost is $280 paid at time of registration (includes transportation, helmet and snowboard, professional instruction). Con- tact Parent Central Services for more information or details at DSN 606-2443121 or +31 (0)45-5263121. Oct. 23 - Nov. 24 • Cheerleading Open Enrollment - For ages 6 to 15. Held at the Child and Youth Services on JFC Brunssum, Bldg. H602. This is for the Jan. 15 to Feb. 23 season. Cost is $45. You must be registered with CYS and have a valid health assessment at the time of enrollment. Volunteer coaches are needed! Contact Parent Central Services for more information or details at DSN 606-2443121 or +31 (0)45-5263121/4195. Open to all U.S. and NATO ID cardholders. Oct. 25 • Board Games Day - Attention board gamers of all ages! The JFC Brunssum Library has organized a Board Games Day from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Library. Discover a new game or go down memory lane and play Twister or Scrabble. For more information, stop by the Library or call DSN 606-2442669 or +31 (0)45-5262669. SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITY Inside the Gate See also page 7 in "All Communities." Players needed • SHAPE RFC Barbarians (Rugby) - Every Monday and Thursday from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on field 16. All experience levels are welcomed. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/shapebarbariansrugby. Every First Week of the Month • Intro to Gym Machines - The SHAPE Sports and Fitness Center hosts this walk-thru Tuesday at 10 a.m. and Thursday at 6 p.m. Book an appointment at the fitness center. Every Monday and Wednesday • Circuit Training (Stroller Friendly) - Join the Chièvres Fitness Center (Bldg. 20004) on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., for an adult, high-intensity, full-body workout using body weight and basic equipment followed by 30 minutes of indoor cycling. Kids are welcomed. Every Tuesday • Summer Reading Toddler & Preschool Story Time STEAM - Join the SHAPE International Library (Bldg. 307) from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. for an afternoon of stories and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). The program starts with a story time and ends with a hands-on project. Recommended for ages 2 to 4. No cost. For more information, call DSN 423-5631 or +32(0)65-445631. • Self-Defense - Men and women over age 18 can attend this beginner-level self-defense course hosted by certified instructors from the Spanish Forces every Tuesday from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the SHAPE Main Gym Basketball Court. Registration is free. Contact [email protected]. • POV Orientation Class is conducted at SHAPE Bldg. 220 in room 104 from 8 a.m. to noon. Schedule an appointment in order to receive study material.

[9] September 7, 2018 Every Tuesday and Thursday • Boxing Classes - Held at the SHAPE Sports and Fitness Center for all levels. No previous experience is required. Interested? Call +32 (0)65-445345 or contact [email protected]. Every Wednesday • GOV Orientation Class is conducted from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. The briefing is mandatory for all U.S. civilians and military who have to drive a government vehicle. Candidates must pass the prior POV tests. Sept. 7-8 • SHAPE Fest - There will be food and drinks from NATO nations in addition to activities for all ages at the SHAPE Fest Tent. More information on www.shape2day.com or see page 6. Sept. 11 • Patriot 5K Run - Held on Chièvres Air Base at 9:11 a.m. Register at the Chièvres Fitness Center. Food and beverages are provided. The run is free. For more information, call DSN 361-5643 or +32 (0)68-275643. Sept. 10/11/24 • Host Nation Orientation - Army Community Service is inviting all service members, civilians, and their family members to participate in Host Nation Orientation Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m and Tuesday from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tour a Belgian hospital, learn about Belgian customs, sample traditional Belgian cuisine, learn basic French, enjoy a cultural tour of Mons and learn about public transportation and shopping. Registration is required. Call DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824. Sept. 12 - Oct. 20 • Flag Football - Held on Chièvres Air Base every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Team roster deadline is Aug. 29. Teams may consist of NATO, U.S. military service members, dependents and

Inside the Gate civilians. Interested? Call +32 (0)65-443193 or contact [email protected]. Sept. 15 • American Legion Post BE02 General Meeting - Held at 10 a.m. at the SHAPE International Library. Sept. 20 • Parent Advisory Committee - Join Parent & Outreach Services at SHAPE Bldg. 503 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. for their committee meeting and earn parent participation points. For more information, call DSN 366-6839 or +32 (0)65-326839. Sept. 21 • Fun for Kids - Meet new friends at the Chièvres Community Activity Center. Open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. You can get together a game of pick-up basketball or play on bouncy castles. It's also a great opportunity for newcomers to the community to meet other parents. Open to U.S., NATO, U.S. Mission, and U.S. Embassy ID cardholders. No entrance fee. Upcoming Organized Trips & Tours SHAPE Trips & Tours • Cologne Christmas Markets, Dec. 8 Serving Brussels, Chièvres and SHAPE. Call • Luxembourg Christmas Markets, Dec. 15 DSN 423-3884 or +32 (0)65-443884. Schinnen Trips & Tours • Heidelberg & World's Largest "Wurst" & Wine Call DSN 360-7560 or +31 (0)46-4437560. Festival in Bad Dürkheim, Germany, Sept. 15 • Family Day "Trout Fishing," Sept. 8 • Cooking Class in Lille, France, Sept. 22 • Day Trip to the Largest Wine Festival in the World • Honfleur, France, Sept. 29 • Amsterdam, Oct. 6 in Bad Dürkheim, Germany, Sept. 15 • Trier, Germany, Oct. 13 • Deep Sea Fishing , Sept. 22 • London, Oct. 20 • Prague Express, Oct. 12-14 • Maastricht, The Netherlands, Oct. 27 • NFL Game at Wembley Stadium (no more single • Paris Secret Food Tour, Nov. 17 rooms left), Oct. 27-29 • Christmas Market and Light Show in Amiens, France, Nov. 24

[10] September 7, 2018 Heritage Days: More than 430 activities By Christophe Morel and Rita Hoefnagels USAG Benelux Public Affairs

St. Waudru. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. The Saint-Waudru to 6 p.m. Collegiate Church is one There will be guided tours (one of the most magnificent hour) Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., Brabantine Gothic 3:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. Registration churches in Belgium. is required. For more information, At 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., call +32 (0)71-880980. you will learn new things • Two UNESCO World Heritage about this exceptional Sites in Tournai. place. Held on Rue On Sunday, discover the Notre du Chapitre, 3. For Dame Cathedral and the Belfry. For an more information, call hour, a guide will explore the history +32 (0)65-355393. of these two monuments. Departures • Sound and Light are at 2:30 p.m. (in Dutch), 3:30 p.m. Show in Soignies. (in English), and 4:30 (in French) There will be a at the Tourism Office of Tournai on lot of things to do in Place Paul-Emile Janson, 1. For more Soignies Sept. 8 and information, call +32 (0)69-222045 9. One of the activities or visit http://www.tournai.be. will be a Sound and Discover all the other activities Light Show in a very at www.journeesdupatrimoine.be.u beautiful garden on Rue Neuve, 12. Shows will start both days at 8:30 p.m., 9 p.m., Also in The Netherlands 9:30 p.m., 10 p.m., and Courtesy graphic 10:30 p.m. For more information, The “Open Monumentendag” European Heritage Days will be call +32 (0)474-022255, or contact or National Heritage Days are held Sept. 8 and 9 in the Belgian [email protected]. held every year in the Netherlands region of Wallonia. Each year, Another activity in Soignies in the second weekend of Outside the Gate Outside the Gate these days allow visitors to discover will be the visit of the Louvignies September. Approximately 4,000 monuments and sites that are often Castle, on Rue de Villegas, 1. On historical buildings and sites inaccessible otherwise. Saturday and Sunday, visitors open their doors to the public. The theme of the 30th edition is will have the opportunity to visit Many locations also organize "The Unusual Heritage." More than the park, the kitchens, and the on-site activities like exhibitions, 430 activities are organized. Here castle. Entry is €8 for the visit music and guided tours. Almost are a few places you can visit in the (one hour). For more information, every Dutch monument is open area: call +32 (0)472-961418 or contact to the public, free of charge, in • The opening of the 30th edition. [email protected]. this weekend. European Heritage Days will be If you like carillon, don't miss the The hard part is to choose held Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m. on Place concert on Sunday at the church on where you will go: would you like de L'Abbaye in Saint-Hubert with a Rue de la Régence, 23. The concert to visit the political heart of The live band, a photo corner, a food will start at 4 p.m. No entrance fee. Hague, medieval churches in truck, dance class and many other • Discover a beautiful abbey in Maastricht or canal houses in activities. Villers-La-Ville without seeing it. Amsterdam? Or would you rather • Learn more about the Saint- Founded in 1146, the Cistercian see the fortifications around Waudru collegiate Church. abbey of Villers constitutes a high Utrecht, theaters of Leiden or The religious and cultural heritage historical site of Wallonia. Discover it the city hall of Gouda? For more of Mons is linked to its history, via smell, touch, hearing and taste. information, visit https://www. developing from the 7th century All along the way, different sensory openmonumentendag.nl/ around the community founded by experiences will be proposed. Open

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Read about events near Chièvres, SHAPE and Brussels. Read about events near Brunssum and Schinnen (in Sept. 7-9 the Netherlands unless otherwise indicated). • Scottish Weekend in Bilzen - Feel, taste and Through Sept. 9 experience Scotland at this fair held in the scenic • Hiswa Fair in Lelystad - Europa’s most complete surroundings of the estate. For more information, in-water boat show held at Bataviahaven, 1. Open visit www.scottish-weekend.be. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry is €15 for adults, and • "Eat!" in Brussels - Held at Parc de Bruxelles- €5 for children age 7 to 17. For more information, Warandepark. The festival will have a brand-new visit www.hiswatewater.nl. concept: several dozen Brussels chefs will take turns Sept. 7-8 to offer you a signature dish from their restaurant. • “Appelpop” In Tiel - A free of charge pop festival Open Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m., held on Waalkade. The event starts Sept. 7 at and Sunday from noon to 9:30 p.m. The entrance 7 p.m., and Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. For more information, is free. Tasting passes are on sale and can be visit www.appelpop.nl. booked via www.eatbrussels.be. Sept. 7-9 Sept. 8 • Wine Fest in Kurpark of Bad Oeynhausen (GE) • Flea Market in Leuze-En-Hainaut - Held on Rue Open Friday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from Pont de la Gare featuring 80 booths from 6 a.m. 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to to 4 p.m. 8 p.m. No entrance fee. Sept. 9 • Fall Festival in Düsseldorf (GE) - More than 100 • Big Procession of Tournai - Held in the center of participants display their products from jewelry town Sunday at 10 a.m. For over nine centuries, to fashion, and culinary delicacies to art. Held hundreds of people have taken part in a Procession in the court of historic Castle Eller. Open Friday through Tournai every second weekend in September. from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from Starting from the Grand Place and finishing its 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry is €12. route at Notre Dame, music, flowers and colourful • World Harbor Days Festivities in Rotterdam costumes are worn by a thousand of volunteers. The program includes shows, demonstrations, The shrines, statues, heads and arm reliquaries excursions, and more. For more information, visit which make up the exceptional treasury of Notre- https://wereldhavendagen.nl. Dame Cathedral and the surrounding parishes also • City Festival in Unna (GE) – The event has a parade through the city. The thousands of flowers historic arts & crafts market, music, and more. that adorn the floats will be distributed among the The festival starts Friday at 5 p.m., and Saturday crowd at the end of the parade. and Sunday at noon. No entrance fee. • Volksmarch in Ath for 5, 10, 15 or 20 km - Departs • “Schippertjesdagen” in Warmond - The event from Rue des Frères Descamps, 18 from 8 a.m. has a nautical market, nautical crafts and water

Outside the Gate to 6 p.m. activities. Held on Jan Steenlaan. Open Friday • Volksmarch in Soignies for 5, 10 or 20 km - Departs from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to from Chemin du Tour Lette from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 1 a.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. No • Petsotic in Roulers - An animal event featuring entrance fee. dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, and more. Held on Sept. 8-9 Diksmuidsesteenweg, 400. Open from 11 a.m. to • Days of the Viking in Den Oever –There is a real 6 p.m. Entry is €5. Viking Camp with re-enactors, old crafts, and more. Sept. 10 Held at Viking Information Center on Havenweg, • Braderie (Jumble Sale) in Tournai - The annual 1. Open from noon to 5 p.m. No entrance fee. jumble sale is a large market spread throughout • Medieval Weekend in Enschede - With old crafts, the city, from the station to the Grand’Place, via sword fights, and black smith. Open from 11 a.m. Rue de l’Hôpital Notre-Dame, Rue de Courtrai, to 5 p.m. Held at Stroinksweg, 90. No entrance fee. Rue des Chapeliers, Rue de la Wallonie, Rue des • Pumpkin Days in Sint Odiliënberg – Visitors will Puits l’Eau and Rue de Pont. Open from 8 a.m. to find more than 100 kind of pumpkins as well as 6 p.m. The Tournaisian shopkeepers also offer demonstrations and taste one of the many pumpkin discounts on this particular day. No entrance fee. dishes. Held at Het Akkertje on Berkenallee, 2. Sept. 15 Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. No entrance fee. • "Parc en Fête" in Soignies - The event has a craft Sept. 12-16 market, shows, contests, live music, a bouncy • Jazz by the Sea in Domburg - An international castle, fireworks (starting at 10:30 p.m.), and old-style Jazz festival held at several locations more. Held from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Parc Pater along the coast in the Province of Zeeland. For on Rue Mademoiselle Hanicq, 1. No entrance fee. more information, visit www.jazzbythesea.nl.

[12] September 7, 2018 Highway Construction and Road Closures You may experience some delays while driving in Belgium this season. Road construction projects are occurring throughout the country and may result in temporary lane closures and road congestion. We will provide regular updates to ensure that the community is informed and prepared.

Andenne/Daussoux (E42/A15): The three-way yard project between Andenne and Daussoulx (15 km in both directions) is almost finished! After a year of work, drivers can now use three lanes of traffic.

Obourg-Thieu (E19-E42/A7): The second part of the road construction project is ongoing on E42-E19/A7 between Obourg and Thieu, in the direction of Brussels. The speed of traffic is reduced to 50 km/h. Work is scheduled to be completed by Sept. 7.

Brussels: Road construction is still ongoing in the Reyers-Montgomery Tunnel in both directions and in the Reyers-Meiser Tunnel in the direction of the E40.

Outside the Gate Drivers who travel to Brussels from the ring are asked to use alternative routes via the A12, the Leopold III Tunnel and the E411. Work is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The Tunnel Leopold II opened again Sept. 1.

Schinnen (A76): Due to the construction of the new on and off ramps on A76 (Highway Heerlen-Geleen), exit Schinnen #4 from Heerlen towards Geleen is closed. This results in the closure of the hard shoulder on both sides of the highway and a speed restriction of 70 km per hour until Jan. 31, 2019. Traffic should follow the yellow signs directing them to exit #2 Geleen-Beek and then access #2 on the A76 direction to Beek-Schinnen. The new A76 on and off ramps are scheduled to be completed this fall.

Please be cautious and patient while driving at all times. If you have questions or would like to report other highway construction sites and road closures, please email the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Public Affairs Office at [email protected].

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