Fr i d ay, O c t o b e r 7, 2 0 1 1
T H E R E D 7 . n et
Ranger instructors train to avoid mistakes that cost four soldiers’ lives Page 2
National Drug Take Back Day at Eglin Page 8
INSIDE Briefs................9 Philpott............10
A Freedom Florida publication
Colloton takes command of 1st Battalion page 3
2039781
Page | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
ContactUs Tracey Steele Editor 315-4472
[email protected]
Susan Fabozzi
News Assistant 315-4450
[email protected]
News (850) 315-4450 Fax: (850) 863-7834 E-mail:
[email protected]
Advertising 863-1111 Ext. 1322 Mail 2 Eglin Parkway NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 The Red 7 is published by the Northwest Florida Daily News, a private firm in no way connected with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) or the U.S. Army. This publication’s content is not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army or 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). The official news source for 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) is http://www.soc.mil/. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Army, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) or the Northwest Florida Daily News for 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 nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Northwest Florida Daily News.
Year No. 1 Edition No. 20
Learning from tragedy Ranger instructors train to avoid mistakes that cost four soldiers’ lives in 1995 By TOM McLAUGHLIN Florida Freedom Newspaeprs Members of an Army unit with a storied history of success took time last week to recall and reflect on a still haunting failure. On Feb. 15, 1995, four young men training to join the elite Rangers died of hypothermia during a swamp training exercise at Camp James E. Rudder on Eglin Air Force Base. Capt. Milton Palmer, 2nd Lt. Curt G. Sansoucie, 2nd Lt. Spencer D. Dodge and Sgt. Norman Tillman succumbed to the cold after spending hours in 52-degree swamp water as a perfect storm of bad luck and miscalculation unfolded around them. “We were decisively engaged before we knew it,” said Dan Matuozzi, who was an instructor for the 6th Ranger Training Battalion when the deaths occurred. “When everything happened, it happened all at once. You were immediately in a survival situation.” Sixteen years after the deaths, a group of Rangers, veteran instructors and instructor trainees revisited the tragic day and were drilled in painstaking detail about what went wrong and why. “It’s a refresher we do every year for our instructors,” said Capt. Ben Sevald, an instructor and the Ranger camp’s spokesman. “It’s critically important in the training of these students.” Critically important because the men will lead students through the swamps on future training missions. Since 1995, the Rangers’ training record is spotless, according to Matuozzi. The training begins on the Yellow River near where Companies Alpha, Bravo and Charlie departed
nick tomecek | Daily News
Army ranger instructors with the 6th Training Battalion at Camp James E. Rudder, bow their heads during a moment of silence at a memorial for four soldiers died during a training exercise in 1995. The instructors are trained yearly on how to prevent a similar tragedy. Feb. 15, 1995. The trainers travel several miles down river in rubber rafts toward a small slough and the swamps that run between the river and higher ground. There stands a cement block and a wooden cross, a simple but poignant memorial to the four men who died. Before the boats are boarded, the instructors are briefed on the many things that have changed since 1995. Perhaps the single greatest con-
tributing factor to the four deaths and near deaths of four others, was what Matuozzi described as “like a flash flood” on the Yellow River. No one at the time realized that rains in northern Alabama are capable of raising the water level of the Yellow River very quickly, he said. “I seriously doubt if people, even native Floridians, have seen a river rise as fast as it did that night,” Matuozzi said. “I haven’t seen a river come up that fast
since.” Nowadays, river conditions are studied before any swamp mission, the new instructors learned. Also, towers have been erected on the base to improve radio communications, Sevald said. Camp Rudder commander Lt. Col. Michael Acord, who accompanied the soldiers to the memorial site, urged his staff to keep someone tuned to a radio at all times to listen for any nugget of information from other units in the vicinity. There are now two medical evacuation helicopters at Camp Rudder and a refueling station on the base. In 1995, critical time was lost when a rescue helicopter with three hypothermia victims onboard had to refuel. The Rangers also were briefed on measures taken to better coordinate communications and rescue efforts with emergency units at Eglin and in the civilian community. But it was at the memorial that the tragic details from 16 years ago were laid out to the Ranger trainers. One young trainee, asked later what he’d taken in, muttered only “shock and awe sir. Shock and awe.” The three companies began traveling down the Yellow River in inflatable boats about 1 p.m. Feb. 15, 1995, despite indications that the water level was well above normal and 52 degrees, just 2 degrees above the “cancellation point” for water training. The plan called for the students to paddle downstream for about six miles, walk through about 700 yards of swamp and then march “a few kilometers.” It was learned near the landing point that the water had risen between 12 and 18 inches since the day before. Instructors decided that was not enough to cancel the exercise or notify the camp commander, a critical mistake according to later Army findings. C Platoon ended up going into the water more than a mile from its designated landing spot, according to a report issued after the See tragedy page 4
Friday, October 7,, 2011 | THE RED 7 | Page
Colloton takes command of Special Forces’ 1st Battalion By Mona Moore Florida Freedom Newspapers EGLIN AFB — In a change-of-command ceremony Tuesday morning Oct. 4, Army Lt. Col. Patrick Colloton assumed leadership of the 1st Battalion of the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) from Lt. Col. Robert Kirila. Kirila served in the position for about two and a half years. He will return to Fort Bragg, N.C., to work at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center. Kirila told the 1st Battalion soldiers that it was an honor to serve as their commander. He gave his speech in English and then in Spanish. Most of the 7th Special Forces deployments are to Central and South America. “First and foremost, I thank the Lord for the opportunity to be a part of Septimo,” he said. “Although these words are not enough, I thank you as a commander, an officer and a citizen.” Col. Antonio Fletcher, commander of the 7th Special Forces, told Kirila he would miss him on a personal and professional level. “Lt. Col. Robert Kirila epitomizes what it means to be a 7th Special Forces commander,” Fletcher said. “I truly hate to see you go.” He then welcomed Colloton back to fold. Colloton previously served as the 7th Spe-
DEVON RAVINe | Daily News
Lt. Col. Patrick Colloton makes some remarks after taking command of the 7th Special Forces Group’s 1st Battalion during a ceremony Tuesday morning.
DEVON RAVINe | Daily News
Members of the 98th Army Band from Ft. Rucker, Ala., perform Tuesday during a change of command ceremony for the 1st Battalion of the 7th Special Forces Group.
cial Forces’ commander of operational Detachment-A 752 and Detachment-A 754. He See colloton page 4
Game Day Meal Deal One 2-Topping Family Size Pizza One 2-liter Soft Drink One Side Item Choose from Cheesy Bread, Cinnamon Wheel or S’mores Dessert Pizza
14
$
use coupon below
we’ll have it ready at our Pick Up Window
8405862
NICEVILLE 1142 John Sims Pkwy E next to Kmart 850-729-0034 5657-PM0911-NWFDN-14GMEDY
One 2-Topping Family Size Pizza, One 2-liter Soft Drink and One Side Item choose from Cheesy Bread, Cinnamon Wheel or S’mores Dessert Pizza.
14
$
LSM-09
Game Day Meal Deal
For a limited time. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. 1437-091411
3026565
Page | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
tragedy From page 2
nick tomecek | Daily News
Army Ranger instructors float down Crane Lake, a tributary of the Yellow River, during a recent training exercise on how to prevent a tragedy like the one that occurred in 1995.
incident. The group began walking through the swamp about 4 p.m. in an area none of the instructors are familiar with. After spending just over an hour looking for a shallow landing location, B Platoon landed close to where C Platoon had gone in. The A Platoon leader decided the high water was too dangerous and led his group to a dry landing. His decision kept the platoon out of trouble. Leaders of B and C Platoons decided to push on despite water being higher than expected. The leaders mistakenly thought the water would get shallower as they move farther from the river.
BROWNSTONE MANOR, CRESTVIEW - Brick 4BR/3BA, living room, formal dining room, 3253 SF. 2 car garage. This home is move in ready! MLS#556999 $259,900
BROOKS
850.275.1040
REALTY SVC Robert L. Burns II (850) 803-6386 John W. Brooks (850) 582-7373
2041502
SALES & SERVICE
WE HAVE THE EQUIPMENT YOU NEED FOR YOUR LAWN & GARDEN.
1147 S. FERDON BLVD., CRESTVIEW
(850) 682-3366 www.wiseequipment.com
evacuated by helicopter. The helicopter was then ordered grounded because of fog. Ambulances were able to reach Palmer and Sansoucie at nearly midnight. Both were pronounced dead at local hospitals after 1 a.m. The final victim, Dodge, was not found until 7:30 a.m., less than 75 yards from high ground, an Army report said. Acord, the company commander, told this year’s instructors that he had been involved in Ranger training at Camp Rudder in 1994 and “when this accident happened a year later I wasn’t surprised.” “It was the way things happened back then,” he said. He told the troops that he hopes during future training he won’t put his instructors in a position where they’re called upon to make life or death decisions, and urged “you guys make decisions. Get out of here alive.” “Their Ranger tabs will shine just as bright” if a swamp mission is called off because of dangerous conditions, Acord said.
colloton From page 3
WE SERVICE MOST BRANDS
1481345
But the water reached some students necks and was over the heads of others. A decision to assemble “one-rope bridges” to help the soldiers get through the swamp led to long delays. As the bridges were assembled, the first case of hypothermia was noted and a medical helicopter was called. The helicopter picked up the first hypothermia victim and was called back to evacuate two more just after it lifted off. Communication problems between the helicopter and the ground crew cost precious minutes. By 6:15 p.m. it was dark and more students were showing signs of hypothermia. The ranger groups began to split up. An hour later panic began to set in as the groups further splintered to search for high ground and safety. It was 9 p.m. by the time Camp Rudder’s leaders realized the seriousness of the situation. Victim Tillman was pronounced dead at Eglin Regional Hospital after being
6512535
also served as the assistant operations officer in the 2nd Battalion. Fletcher described Colloton as a “go-to guy” with a “caring leadership style.” He then offered Colloton some direction for the next two years. “All I ask is that you do everything perfect,” he said. The 7th had a special guest who received two standing ovations and the gratitude of Fletcher, Colloton and Kirila. Chief Warrant Officer 2 (P) Romy Camargo, was welcomed as the 1st Battalion’s honorary warrant officer. The 7th Special Forces soldier was shot in the neck three years ago during an ambush in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The inci-
dent left him paralyzed from the neck down. Colloton thanked Camargo for attending the event and making it a memorable one. “You will always be honorary Chief Warrant Officer of the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group,” he said. Colloton said every Special Forces soldier knows on the day they earn their Green Beret that their true duty is to earn that beret every day from that point forward. “And while today I am given the privilege to assume command of this fine battalion, I know that my true duty is to earn this privilege of command every day,” he said.
Friday, October 7,, 2011 | THE RED 7 | Page
Family, friends gather at beach to honor fallen Airman behind a desk wasn’t for Florida Freedom Newspapers him. “He told me, ‘I want to be on the ground,’ ” Joseph DESTIN — Twenty-nine said as he choked back balloons floated in the air as tears. “It’s amazing that the sun rose Sept. 29, each you are all here. Most of you one telling the story of SeI’ve never met, but thank nior Airman Mark Forester. you for coming out for Mark The 29-year-old Alabama and what he represents.” man was killed by a sniper Mark was from in Afghanistan while he was Haleyville, Ala. He was trying to rescue one of his the youngest of five chilinjured comrades. dren and had brown hair The balloons were and brown eyes. When he released on the beach beenlisted he told his family tween 6:30 and 7 a.m., or he wanted the hardest job about the time Forester in the military, a combat was killed one year ago. controller. His heroism was familiar While serving, Mark upto his family. held his morals and values “He wasn’t only a warso firmly that anytime anyrior, he was a good man,” one had a question about Air Force Maj. Joseph Forwhat to do, they told themester, Mark’s older brother, selves, “Be like Mark.” told a crowd of about 40 Joseph passed out people who attended the bracelets at the balloon memorial. “He had morals release bearing those same and he stuck to them. He words. was a true patriot.” At the same time the Mark had the option to Emerald Coast sky was enter the military as an offilled with the red, white ficer, but he told his brother, and blue balloons, the sky who is stationed at Eglin above Mark’s grave in Air Force Base, that sitting Haleyville also was filled
By ANGEL McCURDY
ANGEL McCURDY | Daily News
People release 29 balloons on the beach in Destin on Thursday morning to mark the first anniversary of Senior Airman Mark Forester’s death in Afghanistan. with balloons released by the rest of his family. Joseph and his family moved to Destin in July and couldn’t make the trip to Alabama, so they decided to honor Mark on the beach, a place he loved to visit during his two years of training at Hurlburt Field. “It was just going to be a small family gathering, but
then it somehow got legs,” said Joseph, wearing a shirt with Mark’s call sign, JAG 28, on the front. Barbara Price, who was vacationing in Fort Walton Beach from Hendersonville, N.C., said she received an email from her daughter in Sarasota suggesting she go out to the beach and say a prayer for Mark’s family.
“I said, ‘I’m not just going out to Fort Walton Beach, I’m going to the release,’ ” Price said. “I’m a patriot, and to hear his brother talk about him, it just touched my heart. What a sacrifice the whole family has made. “I didn’t know him, but I know he’s a hero,” she added. “I’m so proud of him.” Military veteran Barry Lambert and his wife Brenda, who live in Destin, had never met the Forester family. They heard there was a gathering and knew it was something worth attending. “You honor those
young men and women who give the ultimate sacrifice,” Lambert said as he watched the balloons float away. “Look at them, they’re beautiful.” Lambert said Mark’s story is a special one meant to be retold. On each starshaped balloon was a message asking the person who finds it to visit the airman’s website. “He’s a patriot hero,” Lambert said, looking away as his voice cracked and tears welled up in his eyes. “The guy went out to get his comrade. That’s what patriots do. He made the ultimate sacrifice.”
MILITARY 7th Special APPRECIATION Forces Group! SALE! Welcome to Crestview
10% OFF Military Discount
PEST CONTROL, TERMITE & LAWN/SHRUB SERVICES
Henry A. Boilini, MD
Board Certified Psychiatrist
Jason E. Cooper, PhD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Good for active and retired military personnel. Must show military ID. Discount off regular retail merchandise only. Must show military ID. Discount off regular retail merchandise only. Not available with any other coupon. Crestview location only. Not available with any other coupon. Crestview location only.
Ines Campoverde, PhD Licensed Psychologist
Home Pest Control
Elaine Alexa, LCSW, BCD
Including roaches, ants, spiders, earwigs, fleas, mice, rats, etc.
Liscensed Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Diplomate
Yard Pest Control
Including fire ants, mosquitoes, fleas, asian roaches, etc.
Annual Pest Control Service
25 OFF
$
00
682-5354
Free Pest Control Treatment With Termite Treatment
682-5354
Guaranteed 1 Full Year Valid with coupon. Not valid with other specials or discounts. Expires 12/31/11
128 JOHN KING RD., SUITE 14, CRESTVIEW ~ (850) 398-4155
w w w. e m e r a l d c o a s t w e l l n e s s . c o m
Termite Protection
n
25 OFF 50 OFF
$ We accept Tricare, Medicare, Aetna, BCBS, and more. Call for details.
Home & Yard Combo
Valid with coupon. Not valid with other specials or discounts. Expires 12/31/11
00
$
00
682-5354
682-5354
Valid with coupon. Not valid with other specials or discounts. Expires 12/31/11
Valid with coupon. Not valid with other specials or discounts. Expires 12/31/11
DAREL & DONNA LUNDY, OWNERS MONDAY - FRIDAY, 9:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. SATURDAY 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. 594 N. MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN CRESTVIEW
R
594 N. Main Street • Crestview (850) 682-6835 (850)| WWW.BADCOCK.COM 682-6835
6513197
Page | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
ONLY! Y A D 1 YEAR – S I H T E M FINAL TI
SUNDAY ONLY OCTOBER 9, 2011 EXTENDED SHOPPING HOURS
PRESENT THIS COUPON & SAVE
Clock tower to stand at Beal Memorial Cemetery By KARI C. BARLOW Florida Freedom Newspapers FORT WALTON BEACH — City officials have approved a plan to build a veterans clock tower at the entrance to Beal Memorial Cemetery. A group of local veterans proposed the tribute tower in August and recently got the City Council’s OK. “Here in Fort Walton Beach we don’t have anything like this,” said Gene Carroll, president of Veterans Tribute Tower Memorial Inc., which is raising money to build the monument. “This is a military town and (military) retirement town. These veterans deserve something.” Jeff Peters, the city’s recreation and cultural services director, told council members last week that
Plans call for the 30-foot veterans clock tower to sit inside the Beal Parkway entrance. It would be surrounded by brick pavers and 2-foot-tall circular brick wall. the tower will be a good addition to the cemetery. “We feel … like that is an excellent place for it,” he said. “I think it will be an enhancement to the entrance of the cemetery.” Plans call for the 30-foot clock tower to sit inside the Beal Parkway entrance. It would be surrounded by brick pavers and 2-foot-tall circular brick wall. “The flag pole would actually be moved behind the tower,” Peters told the council. Local veterans advocate Tom Rice said he likes the idea of placing the tower
PROMOTIONAL OFFER VALID ONLY 10/09/11 WITH COUPON One coupon per guest. Coupon discount does not apply to previous transactions, previously initiated price holds, non-purchases such as rentals, deposits and charitable donations, purchases of alcohol, purchases of gift cards, and purchases of phone or calling cards and cannot be used in combination with any other coupon, associate discount or other discount such as Rewards redemptions. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Value is forfeited if item is returned. Only original coupons accepted. Big Lots is not responsible for lost, stolen or expired coupons. By using coupon, user unconditionally agrees that decisions of Big Lots are final on all matters of interpretation, fact and procedure in respect of coupon. Valid only on in-stock goods. Void where prohibited. No cash value or cash back. Offer valid 10/9/2011 with coupon. CASHIER: To apply discount, scan this coupon.
5869835
2037887
where residents regularly gather on Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor the military. “The decision to put it in a place where we honor our veterans and our active-duty folks and the families of all our military members is just so appropriate,” he said. “I am going to do everything I can do to help them make it happen.” Veterans Tribute Tower Memorial Inc. is a nonprofit group that plans to raise $250,000 for the tower and $50,000 for the brick pavers and maintenance. “We’re going to different organizations, any organization that will listen to us,” said Carroll, who added that the group also accepts private donations. Carroll said he hopes community groups will host events to benefit the clock tower. The tower will be built by The Verdin Co. of Ohio. It will feature four 3-foot clock dials with backlit canisters and a custom-cast 250-pound 24-inch bronze bell. The tower can be programmed to play chimes and patriotic music. After bringing the tower to Fort Walton Beach, workers will cast the bell on site and invite the public to watch the tower being assembled. Carroll said his group hopes to have it in place by October 2013.
Friday, October 7,, 2011 | THE RED 7 | Page
Vietnam veteran adds to his awards teams that would work in North Vietnam. The unit was never to be discussed and its missions were never publicized until years later. “These veterans’ heroic actions remained classified for years due to the covert nature of their missions,” said U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, who helped the unit get the citation. “It’s great they’re finally getting the recognition they deserve.” Ward was among 15 members of the unit who lat month were presented 33 awards for their valor. Many of them received
multiple Purple Hearts. Ward said he has received three Purple Hearts. He already had earned three Bronze Stars and three Army Commendation awards, and has another Silver Star to receive. However, he said during his 32 years in the Army he never thought about the medals. He didn’t expect to get them. “It’s a little strange since in special operations we considered the perfect mission to be the one no one knew about,” he said at his home. “We were never really publicized.”
Courtesy photo
Army veteran Vernon Ward recently received a Bronze Star and the Army Commendation medal for his service during the Vietnam War with MACV-SOG-Military Assistance Command Vietnam-Studies and Observation Group.
Hair Masters Salon
(850) 862 2007
300 Eglin Pkwy, NE @ Corner of Eglin & South Ave
MONDAY TO THURSDAY
COMBINATION PLATES BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
Menu items A–L, with purchase of two drinks
Dine in only. One coupon per party. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Not valid with any daily specials. Expires October 19, 2011
8 Women’s Cut • $600 Men’s Cut
FAJITA CHICKEN
850.423.1400
592 N. Ferdon Blvd., Crestview, FL 32536
Lunch Only
11:00am–4:00pm
5
$ 99
HARRIS FENCE INSTALLATION
redeem:
to obtain the release or restoration of, as from captivity, by paying the ransom
Come visit and find out why God’s Grace Changes Everything! SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:00 A.M. COFFEE FELLOWSHIP 10:00 A.M. SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 10:30 A.M.
MONDAY TO THURSDAY
COMBINATION PLATES BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
Menu items A–L, with purchase of two drinks
Dine in only. One coupon per party. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Not valid with any daily specials. Expires October 19, 2011
365 West James Lee Blvd, Crestview FL 32536 850.398.8490 • www.graceredeemerpca.org
“28 Years Experience”
• Residential - Commercial • Privacy Fences - Wood • Industrial • Privacy Fences - PVC • Chain Link • Handrails - Decks • Vinyl Chain Link • Picket - Wood & PVC • Dog Kennels • Round Rail - Wood • Tennis Courts & Ball Fields • Farm Fencing Military & Senior Citizen Discount
480 Mary Esther Blvd, Mary Esther, FL 32569
the freely given, unmerited favor and love of God
Come and Try Our Organic Hair Products Curl & Straightening System $ 00
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
(850) 796 4300
grace:
GRAND OPENING SPECIAL
2854672
MARY ESTHER — For nearly 30 years, no one knew about the heroic deeds of Army 1st Lt. Vernon Ward. However, the former Green Beret was presented a Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal last month for his service during the Vietnam War. “No one did this for the acclaim,” said Ward, 64, of Mary Esther. “I just did what my mission was.” Ward was a member
of a 100-man unit known as MACV-SOG — Militar y Assistance Command Vietnam-Studies and Observation Group, which operated secretly in Southeast Asia from 1964 until it was disbanded in 1972. The unit was not publicized until 2001, when the group received the Presidential Unit Citation, the highest award a unit can receive. Ward was 20 when he joined the special operations unit. He said its primary mission was reconnaissance; typically five- to seven-man
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
FAJITA CHICKEN
Lunch Only
Things To Ask Other Contractors
11:00am–4:00pm
5
$ 99
Do you have a price matching?
Are you Liscensed & Insured?
Will you start without a down payment?
Do you finish the job in a timely manner?
Do you provide a warranty?
Harris Fence is proud to say YES to all these questions.
Are you a member of the Better Business Bureau?
www.larumba.promilitary.net 2042877
Free Estimates | 537-6169 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED | LIC & INSURED
6597196
By ANGEL McCURDY Florida Freedom Newspapers
Page | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
Fire Prevention Week safety tips
Family Fall Festival
By Col. Anthony Higdon 96th Civil Engineer Group The Eglin Air Force Base fire department, along with fire departments across the nation, commemorates National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9 -15. Uncontrolled fire can destroy homes, possessions and lives. Fire Prevention Week is a time to check evacuation plans at home and the workplace to ensure the safety of loved ones and co-workers. This year’s campaign “Protect your family from fire” is designed to educate people about the importance of protecting their families from fire. Eglin’s fire protection flight along with the National Fire Protection Association provided some facts and figures along with some ideas to “protect your family from fire.” In 2009, home fires were reported every 87 seconds, killing 2,565 people, injuring 12,650 and causing $7.6 billion in direct damage. Many fatalities, injuries and property losses can be prevented by
SUNDAY OCTOBER 16TH AT HIGH NOON
ALL ARE INVITED FREE LUNCH of Hamburgers, Hotdogs provided under the big tent.
planning ahead and integrating fire safe behaviors into your daily activities.
Sprinklers If building or remodeling a home, consider installing home fire sprinklers. The risk of dying in a home fire is roughly 80 percent less when sprinklers are present.
Home escape planning Make sure the house has working smoke alarms and everyone knows the sound they make. Sit down and plan a fire escape drill so you’ll be prepared to get out quickly in the event of a fire. When the smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Plan two ways out of every room and pick an outside meeting place, at least 75 feet from the residence. Practice the fire escape drill at least twice a year. One of those drills should be at night when the family is asleep. That is the most difficult time to egress the family from the home.
Smoke alarms Almost two-thirds of reported home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, installing both or a combination alarm is recommended. Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least twice a year. A good time to remember to change your batteries is when you “spring forward” or “fall back”. If the alarm “chirps,” replace the battery right away. Replace all alarms when they are 10 years old or sooner if they do not respond properly when tested. Be sure the smoke alarm has the label of a recognized testing laboratory i.e. UL or FM. For safety tips and prevention advice, log on to www.firepreventionweek.org.
Games, Crafts, Bounce Houses and more. SWEET DREAMS COLLECTION BLOWOUT SALE
Join us for a single service at 11:00 a.m. if you like, then come to the festival. Or just come to the festival. Either way, bring your camera and get ready for some good old fashioned family fun!
INFINITY
SANTIAGO
T set - $249 F set - $299 Q set - $399 King set - $599
F set - $299 Q set - $499
————
T set - $399 F set - $499 Q set - $599 King set - $799
» Tempered Steel Coils » Foam Incased Sides » 10 Year Warranty
» Coil on Coil » Individual Wrap’d Coils » Embroidered » 10 Year Warranty
» Tempered Steel Coils » Individual wrap’d coils » Foam Incased Sides » 15 Year Warranty
“Pillow Top or Firm”
WHERE? First United Methodist Church 599 8th Avenue, Crestview
————
Full or Queen 8” Firm Memory Comes With Full 20 Year Warranty
For more information call
850-682-2018
$
499
Compare to Tempurpedic at Less Than 1/2 The Price!
or check out our website at
welcomehome2crestview.com
Queen 11” w/Memory & Latex 6512550
NEW FURNITURE OFFER
THE DREAMER
Comes With Full 20 Year Warranty 4496628
799
$
“PillowTop/Firm/Plush”
When you buy a premium mattress you get our furniture at our cost plus freight
All Natural: The Cleanest, Healthiest, Freshest and Purest Mattress You Will Ever Own! EXCLUSIVE VIVON DEALER
As Seen on YouTube
299 $ 129
Queen Pillow $ Top Sets Twin Sets
MILITARY & VET DISCOUNTS 2 LOC ATIONS TO SERV E YOU 722 Beal Pkwy. (Unit E), Fort Walton Beach • 850.226.6522 438 John Sims Pkwy, Niceville • 850.279.6757 Toll free number • 877.515.3962 www.floridamattressstores.com
Friday, October 7,, 2011 | THE RED 7 | Page
‘Invisible injuries’ of war to be felt for decades and he returned to Moody Air Force Base, Ga., April could tell he wasn’t himself. “He still had the same headache. He was confused at simple things. He had short-term memory loss. The last straw for me was the day he called me on his way from work … and said, ‘I can’t remember how to get home,’ ” April recalled. “The local medical community, including the Air Force medical clinic doctor, seemed to be reluctant to help,” April continued. “Tom’s primary care doctor implied Tom was trying to get out of work. This was a slap in the face to both of us,” considering that with two boys to raise they had ever complained during any of Tom’s various
deployments. “Then the doctor made this statement: ‘I’ll write you a prescription for Motrin but you really need to suck it up and go back to
work,’ ” April said. Eventually, Tom got a thorough evaluation at the poly-trauma unit of the VA Medical Center in Tampa. Doctors diagnosed trau-
matic brain injury with an orbital wall blowout fracture behind an eye. A shoulder required surgery. Tom also had hearing loss, vision deficit and post-traumatic
stress disorder. He spent months in Tampa and “received outstanding medical treatSee injuries page 10
Tom Philpott
Clock Corner Large Variety of Clocks
• SALES • SERVICE • REPAIRS Watch Batteries $
4.72
Clock Corner
Installed Most Watches exp With Coupon *Limit 2 per household 11/30/11
Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-2
850-314-0189 Goodwill Waffle House
Wright Plaza Clock Corner
Racetrack Road
450 C Racetrack Rd NW. FWB, FL 32547 Wright Plaza
9545527
Beal Pkwy
Sixty-six percent of the most seriously wounded soldiers returning from Afghanistan and Iraq have “invisible” injuries of brain trauma or post-traumatic stress, which their families and society will deal with at great cost for decades, said Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, the Army’s vice chief of staff. “The truth is, because we don’t see these injuries … they don’t receive the same level of attention as amputations, burns, shrapnel injuries,” Chiarelli said. “There is simply a bias, and I really mean that. There is a bias either conscious or subconscious toward invisible wounds and injuries … It exists everywhere, including in the medical community.” Chiarelli made his remarks Monday at Defense Forum Washington, a oneday conference on support for wounded warriors and families as they struggle to heal and regain stable lives. The annual event is cosponsored by U.S. Naval Institute and Military Officers Association of America. Before Chiarelli spoke, April Marcum, wife of retired Air Force Tech Sgt. Tom Macum, described how her husband saw that bias from the medical community when he returned wounded from Iraq in 2008. A combat arms training and maintenance specialist with 12 years in service, Tom had been in charge of an armory on Ali Air Base Iraq when a mortar round fired by insurgents exploded 35 yards away, knocking him unconscious. When he could, Tom called April to say that except for a headache he was okay. A medic told him he should rest a couple of days before returning to duty. But when Tom’s tour ended several weeks later
2037867
Page 10 | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
military Briefs From staff reports
Flu shots available to veterans The seasonal flu vaccine is available to all eligible and enrolled veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs Eglin Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. Veterans seeking a flu shot should visit the Eglin CBOC between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, but not on federal holidays. The Eglin CBOC is located at 100 Veterans Way, along north Eglin Parkway. Veterans who receive care from the VA are encouraged to get their flu shot from their local VA medical facility, and any veterans who have received their shot elsewhere should let their Patient Aligned Care Team know. Veterans who have not yet enrolled to receive VA health care should bring their DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or other proof of honorable military
service. For information about the VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System, visit http://www.biloxi.va.gov.
Banishing Bible Boredom Workshop The Eglin Chapel will present Banishing Bible Boredom Workshop from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 7 and from 9 – 11:40 a.m. Oct. 8 at the Chapel Center Annex. Guest speaker will be Tracy Radosevic. For information, call Chaplain Duarte at 882-2111.
injuries From page 9
First Friday Oktoberfest party Bring family and friends to the Bayview Club to enjoy a menu of Bratwurst, Knockwurst, German Fires, Sauerkraut, and German Chocolate Cake at the First Friday social hour party from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 7. Live music will be provided by the Sour Krauts. Food and fun are free for all Eglin Club members and immediate family. Cost is $7.50 admission for guests. Children 5 and under dine for free. 651-1010
Orientation flights Gauley whitewater rafting over Emerald Coast Get a birds-eye-view of our beautiful Emerald Coast on an Aero Club orientation flight from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Oct. 10. It’s a 20-minute flight you’ll thoroughly enjoy. Cost is $20 per person. The Aero Club is located in Bldg. 898 on the flight line. Bring family or a friend and use you PLAYpass card. 882-5148
Venture to West Virginia Oct. 14-17 for an amazing weekend of world-class whitewater rafting. Spend the weekend rafting amid the beautiful fall colors of the New River Gorge. Cost is $385 per person and includes two full days of rafting on the New and See briefs page 11
ment,” April said. He was medically retired from the Air Force in May 2010. April said she had to quit her teaching job to care for her husband and raise their sons. While living on 70percent disability payment from the Air Force and Social Security Disability Insurance, the Marcums have exhausted their life savings, she said. April asked Chiarelli about how the Army conducted some tests on her husband and the Air Force would not accept the results because they appeared on an Army evaluation form. “I honestly believe it relates back to the stigma” tied to these invisible wounds of war,” Chiarelli told her. “The medical community is as much stigmatized by these injuries as anybody.” For example, Chiarelli said he believes post-traumatic stress “is a no-kidding injury. But if you were to get 10 psychiatrists and psychologists over here you would have maybe six … who agree with me and
the other four would say, ‘General, you’re nuts. How dare you even say that if you haven’t studied this as long and hard as we have.’ The stigma is everywhere. It’s throughout the service … It’s throughout civilian (life).” As vice chief, Chiarelli said his top priority “is the health and well-being of the force,” which explains his focus on “the signature” wounds from Iraq and Afghanistan. Many soldiers and veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries aren’t yet receiving care because their injuries haven’t been diagnosed and might not be discovered for years. The National Institute of Health, he said, has estimated that the average length of time in this country from when an incident occurs that causes post-traumatic stress to when the illness gets diagnosed is 12 years. “And lots of bad stuff happens in that 12-year period,” which can have lasting impact on individuals, their families and their careers, he said.
“The reality is that we as a department and as a nation will be dealing with the symptoms and effects of these injuries for decades to come. And make no mistake, this is where your money will be spent,” Chiarelli said. Fortunately, he said, much has been achieved from studying invisible injuries from these wars toward more timely diagnoses and treatment. For example, researchers are perhaps just a year away from developing a biomarker to detect conclusively whether a patient has suffered a concussion, using a device similar to what diabetics use to test blood sugar. “Do you know how huge that will be?” Chiarelli asked. Yes. Many in this audience, comprised mostly of wounded warrior caregivers and advocates, did indeed know. Tom Philpott is a syndicated columnist. You may write to him at Military Update, P.O. Box 231111, Centreville, VA 201201111; or at
[email protected].
THE FAME IS IN THE NAME—THE QUALITY IS IN THE KITCHEN
“We Train Beauty Practitioners.” NICEVILLE
CRESTVIEW
DeFUNIAK
DESTIN
897-TACO 951-2175
683-0208 650-4062
NICEVILLE LOCATION ONLY
BUY ONE
GET ONE
FREE DINNER Expires October 10, 2011
2 FOR 1 MARGARITA S & DRAFT BEER ALL DAY
EVERY DAY
your source for all tactical gear needs!
• MYCAA or Payments Available • Can complete in 7-8 months • Approved for Veterans Training
BEAUTY SERVICES AVAILABLE
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY OR
Beauty Careers Training Center
COMPANY PARTY
WITH US!
Enroll Today!
CALL FOR MORE DETAILS
678-5176
864 W. John Sims Pkwy Niceville, FL
www.beautyschoolsokaloosa.com Finest Margaritas on the Emerald Coast
www.larumbamexicanrestaurant.com
9836423
503-A Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541 Tuesday thru Saturday 10am to 6pm
3026573
Friday, October 7,, 2011 | THE RED 7 | Page 11
briefs From page 10 Gauley Rivers, tent camping with full facilities, two breakfasts, and one award-winning gourmet dinner buffet on site. Bonus: Watch basejumpers leap from the 876’ New River Gorge Bridge while you raft underneath it! Limited space, so sign up soon at Outdoor Recreation! 882-5058
Camp Robbins family campout Enjoy an overnight campout with family and friends beginning at 6 p.m. Oct. 21 under the moon and stars at Camp Robbins. Cost is $20 pr 4-man tent and includes
water and s’mores. Contact and the Eglin Fitness Center Outdoor Recreation to sign for Eglin’s 5th Annual Breast up. 882-5058 Cancer Awareness 5K Run/ Walk on Oct. 14. Showtime is 1:45 p.m. at the CE pavilion, with the race’s start at 2:20 p.m. Participation is free for all personnel (active Come out and join the duty military, DOD civilians, Health & Wellness Center contractors and dependents)
Breast Cancer Awareness 5K
and prizes will be awarded to the top 3 male and female runners. Wear pink to show your support. 882-6223
Annual Pet Day Oct. 22
Clinic from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Oct. 22 for Eglin’s Annual Pet Day, sponsored by AAFES. Event will feature a dog walk and pet contests open to all species to include pet owner look alike, best trick, best costume, and most
Join the Eglin Veterinary
See briefs page 12
pure freedom.
QVSFCSPBECBOE CenturyLink is proud to support the men and women of our military.
stay connected whether you’re on base or overseas. tBMMIJHITQFFEJOUFSOFU OPQIPOFMJOFSFRVJSFE tTVSG TUSFBN HBNFBOENPSFXJUIPVUTMPXJOHEPXO tUIFQSJDFZPVTJHOVQGPSJTUIFQSJDFZPVQBZ
speeds up to 10 Mbps
29
$
.95 a month*
call 877.305.7291 UPHFUQVSFTQFFEBOEQVSFGSFFEPN 2037893
come in to your local store at .BSZ&TUIFS$VUPGG 6OJU# 'PSU8BMUPO#FBDI
*Offer ends 1/28/2012. Offer available to new residential customers only. A current military ID is required to receive offer. The monthly rate of $29.95 requires a minimum service commitment of twelve (12) months. Rate applies to up to 10 Mbps High-Speed Internet service. An additional monthly fee and separate shipping and handling fee will apply to customer’s modem or router. All rates exclude taxes, fees and surcharges. General – Services and offers not available everywhere. CenturyLink may change or cancel services or substitute similar services at its sole discretion without notice. Offer, plans, and stated rates are subject to change and may vary by service area. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at www.centurylink.com. Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges – Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply, including a Carrier Universal Service charge, National Access Fee surcharge, a one-time High-Speed Internet activation fee, state and local fees that vary by area and certain in-state surcharges. Cost recovery fees are not taxes or government-required charges for use. Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply based on standard monthly, not promotional, rates. Call for a listing of applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges. Pure Broadband Service – As determined by service location, an early termination fee will apply as either a flat $99 fee or the applicable monthly recurring service fee multiplied by the number of months remaining in the minimum service period, up to $200. However, if subscriber cancels the service while deployed during the term agreement time frame, the early termination fee will be waived. Performance will vary due to conditions outside of network control and no speed is guaranteed. Telephone landline is part of the service only for the purpose of data traffic transmission/connection and cannot be used for voice traffic transmission, except for 911 services. ©2011 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
Page 12 | THE RED 7 | Friday, October 7, 2011
briefs From page 11
BANK BAN BA AN NKK OWNED AUCTION Sperr S per rr y Van Va n Ness N Accelerated A c celerat l ted d Marketing M arketi k ting
OVER 110 PROPERTIES THRU-OUT ALABAMA & FLORIDA
October 24th - 28th
MOST SELLING ABSOLUTE NO MINIMUM NO RESERVE!
COMMERCIAL ∙ HOMES ∙ CONDOS ∙ ACREAGE & LOTS Live Auctions with Online Bidding Available Broker Participation Invited
877.765.3786
2037974
www.BidOnBankREO.com
AL Auctioneer #1832; Broker #000058515-0 / FL Auctioneer #AU220; Broker #CQ1036111
unique. First through third place winners will receive prizes including a year’s supply of heartworm prevention and flea control, AAFES gift cards, and much more. Pet Welfare will sponsor pet adoptions. Applications for pets may be filled out at the event and those adopting will receive a $100 gift certificate from AAFES. Pet owners are welcome to bring gently-used blankets, pet bowls, leashes or any Science Diet pet food to send home with newly adopted pets. Eglin Stables will offer pony rides and Eglin Special forces will hold a special Military Working Dog Demonstration. Hotdogs, hamburgers, chips and soda will be available for purchase. 850-882-8972.
tournament is Oct. 21 at 8 a.m. at the Eglin Golf Course. Donations will be for the general CFC fund. Cost is $55 per person. To sign up, call 882-2038 or 883-0087.
Krewe of Halloween trip to New Orleans
lor, at the annual Arts Festival from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oct. 8 and 9, in Navarre Park on U.S. Highway 98. Taylor does paintings and prints of military and aviation scenes, showing great detail and admiration for aviation subjects. Taylor will be our featured artist, and we have 50 other artists, crafters and business displays, music and entertainment during the free festival. Bring your chairs for our special entertainment from 6-8 p.m. Saturday.
Take a day trip Oct. 29 to enjoy the merriment of Mardi Gras on this Krewe of Halloween “Throw Me Somethin’, Monster!!!” event in New Orleans. Cost is $50 per person and includes transportation. Departs Eglin at 6 a.m. and departs New Orleans at 8 p.m. Great opportunity to use your PLAYUrban Adult Contempopass discount. 882-5930 rary powerhouse Kem is slated to kick off the Gulf Coast Veteran’s Day Fall Festival at the Pensacola Civic Center on Nov. 11. The Navarre Fall Arts Doors open at 7 p.m. and The annual Combined Festival is hosting noted showtime is at 8 p.m. Federal Campaign golf Aviation Artist, Charles TayThe 2-day festival con-
Eglin, Hurlburt CFC golf tournament
Gulf Coast Veteran’s Day Fall Festival
Navarre Fall Arts Festival
tinues on Nov. 12 at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds. The second concert features Avant, Tank, Anthony David, and Troop. Tickets purchased for the Nov. 11 show are good for free admittance to the Nov. 12 show. Free tickets for the 2-day event are available for visitors booking rooms at participating hotels. For a list of participating hotels, visit banksenterprize. com and click on upcoming shows. Ticket Information: Advance tickets are $55. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $75. VIP packages include premium seating for the Friday night show only. All tickets $65 day of show. Tickets are available at The Pensacola Civic Center Box Office, Ticketmaster outlets, or Charge By Phone (800) 7453000, or www.ticketmaster. com (additional fees may apply).
3026407
