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Vol. 9, No. 13 March 31, 2005
Deployed troops getting
best protection available
By Donna Miles In Iraq, 80 percent of all vehicles many troops stopped wearing them.
American Forces Press Service have increased armor protection, Manufacturers quickly responded,
and only those vehicles are permit- sending him samples of new prod-
CAMPAS SAYLIYAH, Qatar ted to travel outside bases, he said. ucts to test.
– Senior enlisted leaders say they’re But, Mellinger said, there’s a limit “We are getting as much as in-
confident all necessary measures to how much armor one can attach dustry can produce, and getting the
are being taken to ensure service to a vehicle not designed to carry it. best that’s available,” he said, add-
members deployed throughout U.S. “You don’t have enough motor un- ing that manufacturers “recognize
Central Command have the best der some of these vehicles to handle that this could be their son or daugh-
protection possible. it,” he said. “That’s because we built ter” who benefits from their prod-
Speaking to theAmerican Forces our vehicles for transportation,” uct.
Press Service from Central rather than warfighting platforms. Personal protection “is getting
Command’s forward headquarters Similarly, he said, soldiers can smaller and lighter and better,”
here, the top noncommissioned of- handle only so much weight in body Mellinger said. But no matter how
ficers from CENTCOM, Multina- armor. “You are going to reach a advanced technology becomes in
tional Force Iraq and Combined point where it’s just too heavy and protecting troops, he acknowledged,
Forces CommandAfghanistan said will reduce the wearer’s effective- there’s no way to provide 100 per-
the military is providing troops the ness,” he said. cent protection.
best protection on the market as Manufacturers are quickly com- Much of it boils down to mitigat-
quickly as possible. ing forward with new concepts in ing risk, recognizing threats and
“Our concern has always been body armor and other body protec- avoiding them, saidAir Force Chief
to provide the best protection pos- tion and responding to requests from Master Sgt. Curtis Brownlee, com-
Photo by Lance Cpl. Nich R. Babb
sible,” said Army Command Sgt. the field, saidArmy Command Sgt. mand chief master sergeant for U.S.
Xavier Cox, the three-year-old son of Kim Cox and Maj.
Wayne O. Cox II, picks an easter egg up off the ground of Maj. Jeffrey Mellinger, from Multi- Maj. Cynthia Pritchett, from Com- Central Command.
Club Street during an Easter egg hunt hosted by the Marine national Force Iraq. bined Forces Command Afghani- “A lot of it is situational aware-
Memorial Chapel, Saturday. Xavier found four eggs and re- “We’re moving as fast as we can stan. ness,” agreed Mellinger. “That’s
ceived a bag of candy as a reward for his efforts. About 800
to put armored protection on ve- Mellinger said he complained that something that comes through train-
eggs were hidden in the hunt.
hicles,” he said. troops’ eye protection fogged, so ing and experience.”
April: Month of the Military Child, Child Abuse Prevention Month
By Lance Cpl. Jenna Lassandrello the hardest job in the Marine Corps, but the goodandbad.Movingfrequently,forexample, sacrifices, they feel on some level a sense of
Combat Correspondent stresses of military life affect the entire family can help children learn to be flexible to change, pride for being able to say they are military
of a Marine. The children of Marines must gain exposure to many different locations and children, she said.
Since 1986, the Secretary of Defense has alsolearntohandledeployments,parents’ time develop social skills. On the other hand, chil- Thechildrenenjoybeingrecognizedduring
designatedAprilasMonthoftheMilitaryChild constraints, and the constant moving that dren often don’t have the support of extended the month ofApril for the contributions they
and this year it runs simultaneously with Child comesalongwiththeresponsibilitytotheCorps. familylivingclosebyortheopportunitytogrow are making, said Walls. “They deserve to be
Abuse Prevention Month. “Military children have a very different up with the same circle of friends.” respected and honored for the contributions
As MarAdmin 136/05 states, recognizing lifestylethanchildrenwithcivilianparents,”said Children with military parents often need they make.”
our children is integral to ensuring they grow Grace Walls, training curriculum and family support to make up for the lack of stability in By promoting the National ChildAbuse
up in healthy happy homes and strong com- child care advisor at the Child Development their lives, said Walls. “The military has a lot of Prevention Month and Month of the Military
munities. Center here. programs that provide this support.”
Many say being a spouse of a Marine is “The differences between the two are both Even though military children are making See CHILD Page 10
Spring Forward NMCRS Insurance Around the Corps Check out the
Marine Corps
Jump into spring by
“Show me Vehicle Welcome to the Web site:
setting the clock ahead http://www.usmc.mil
by one hour at 2 a.m. the money...” protection Bat Cave
or MCLB Barstow at:
Sunday
-5- -6- -8- https://www.barstow.usmc.mil/
2 March 31, 2005
Customer Comments: serve enough patrons to maintain a salad bar or Rather, it is an MCCS commercial res-
offer a dessert with your meal but I’m expect- taurant, and is funded primarily through
I have a concern for the prices in effect at
ing to at least get my main meal (daily special) the revenues generated through sales. The
the Family Restaurant.
for the cost of the daily meal rate of $3.50 with commanding officer reimburses MCCS
Since the meal card inception, the prices for
keepinginlinewithotherchowhalls. for a percentage of the labor associated
meals do not match that of the daily ration rate
I’ve also reviewed the MOU and might with operating the restaurant in order to
Comments, questions or concerns ($8.90) break down of $1.90 for breakfast and
suggestthatsincethemealcardwasintroduced, provide an on-base food service location
filed with the base Interactive Cus- $3.50 for lunch/dinner. I paid $2.10 for break-
that changes be made in order to reflect correct for the Marines and Sailors assigned to
tomer Service Evaluation system are fast the other day as well as $4.95 for the lunch
policy/practice as well as pricing rates. MCLB Barstow. As a result, we are able
automatically routed to the service pro- special.
vider and the service provider can re- Throughout other chow halls you get the to keep prices artificially low as compared
spond directly. main course, beverage, salad bar and, if you Manager’s Response: to comparable services outside the gate.
To access the ICE Web site, visit desire, a dessert. Here, a dessert is an extra There is a misconception here in that the The meal cards recently issued are only
the MCLB Barstow Web site at $2.00, and there isn’t a salad bar unless you Family Restaurant is not a traditional dining a means of identifying active duty Ma-
www.mclbonline.barstow.usmc.mil want to buy a salad or it’s salad bar day. I can facility funded by the base entirely through rines and Sailors assigned to MCLB in
and click the ICE logo. maybe understand that the restaurant doesn’t appropriated funds. order to receive a reduced rate.
Chaplain’s Corner Just doing my job ...
Finishing the race that is before us
By Lt. j.g Tavis Long In front of
Command Chaplain more than
65,000 specta-
Derek Redmond entered the
tors, Derek
Barcelona Olympics of 1992 with
took his place in
renewed motivation.
the lineup.
In the 1988 Olympics hosted by
Immediately the
Seoul, Korea, he had to withdraw
race erupted
because of an Achilles injury just 10
into a fierce
minutes before running the 400-meter
competition.
race.
Derek jumped out to the lead the
Now, four years of training and five
pack. The race was going well and it
surgeries later, he was ready to step
seemed Derek would take this qualifi-
into the blocks and run his way
cation and be able to run in the final
towards a medal.
with a chance win a medal.
Derek’s dad, Jim Redmond, had
But, as Derek rounded the back-
made the trip to Spain with his son to
stretch, with just 175 meters before
watch him run. Jim was always
crossing the finish line, a popping
faithful to every race. The two were
sound shook his entire body. He fell to
inseparable.
the track as if someone had shot him.
As the start of the race came
Both the sound and pain had origi-
closer, the two embraced each other
nated in his right thigh, and it was only
and Jim slipped away to find his seat.
a split second before Derek knew
Both agreed before departing that no
what had happened—he had snapped
matter what happens, Derek would
his hamstring.
finish this race. All Derek had to do
He struggled to get up and began to
was finish in the top two of this
hobble down the track, but the pain
semifinal heat and he would be
guaranteed a spot in the Olympic final. See CHAPLAIN Page 10
Chapel Catholic Mass
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
Jewish Services
Congregation Bamidar Shel Ha-Am
Services 505 E. Mt. View 130 Eastgate Road Photo by Lance Cpl. Nich R. Babb
Barstow Barstow Rolando Olegario, a recreational attendant at the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow's
Protestant Sundays, 7:30 a.m. Misa En Espanol Saturdays 10 a.m.
Sunday 8:30 a.m. 9:30, 10:30 a.m. English
base gym, dusts a switchboard in the main hallway. Olegario moved to Barstow from the
Philippines, and has been living here since July.
The editorial content of this newspaper is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California.
Mailing address: Commanding Officer, Attn: Public Affairs, Box 110130, Barstow, CA 92311-5050. The Public Affairs Office is located in Building 15. Phones:
Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California (760) 577-6430, 577-6450, 577-6451, FAX 577-6350, DSN prefix 282. This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense.
Colonel Steven J. Thompson, Commanding Officer Contents of BARSTOW LOG are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Marine
Corps. BARSTOW LOG is published by Aerotech News, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive written contract with
Public Affairs Staff
Public Affairs Officer: Bill Bokholt Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California.
Public Affairs Chief: Gunnery Sgt. Shay Richardson The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Marine Corps, or Aerotech
Public Affairs Specialist: Rob L. Jackson News, of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race,
Correspondent: Cpl. Jeremy Gadrow color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.
Correspondent:Cpl. Ashley Warden BARSTOW LOG is distributed every Thursday (or Wednesday preceding a holiday) 50 weeks a year. BARSTOW LOG is produced at Aerotech News in
Correspondent: Lance Cpl. Jenna Lassandrello
Correspondent: Lance Cpl. Nich R. Babb Lancaster, Calif. Printed circulation is 3,500.
Public Affairs Support Clerk: Bertie Dailey For information on advertising in BARSTOW LOG, contact Paul Kinison of Aerotech News, phone: (661) 945-5634.
March 31, 2005 3
News Briefs
Leave Sharing Program ting into the containers.
Milisa A. Beckley, badge Take only the needed amount Sempertoons Created by Staff Sgt. Charles Wolf
USMC Active
#9397, Maintenance Center, has to allow an even share to every-
been affected by a medical emer- one.
gency. For more information, contact
Anyone desiring to donate Gunnery Sgt. Edward Jones,
leave under the Leave Sharing housing chief, at 577-6871.
Program may do so by obtaining
a leave donor application form Relay for Life
through their administrative of- Planning for the 7th annual
ficer. Barstow Relay for Life cancer
For more information, contact fundraiser is underway.
Pat Snyder at 577-7138. A meeting for committee mem-
bers, will be held April 25, at the
Dollar Days Elks Lodge from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.,
The MCLB Barstow commis- as well as a meeting for the team
sary is starting its first dollar days captains from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
event today through April 13.
Items throughout the store will Free Tickets
feature dollar pricing and will re- “Rockin’ with the Corps” is
flect the concept of the “Dollar scheduled to be held Friday at the
Store,” which is rising in popu- Camp Pendleton Del Mar Beach
larity. at 7:30 p.m.
Customers should look for the All persons with base privi-
“Dollar Sign” banner outside of leges are eligible for up to four
the commissary, and the “Extra free tickets on a first come first trucks, will be directed to the the weather, wear comfortable 6849 or e-mail the chaplain at
Savings” signs, which are inside serve basis. main gate, located at the south walking shoes and bring water to tavis.long@usmc.mil.
the store to get the best deals on For more information or to pick side of Yermo Annex adjacent to drink while in the Goldstone Deep
up tickets, visit the Information, Agate Road. Space Communications Com- Earned Tax Credit
numerous products.
Tickets and Tours office in Build- For more information call the plex. Space is limited so registra- Members of the U.S. Armed
tion is required. Forces are often eligible for
Rib Night ing 342 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. base provost marshal’s office at
Starting today, barbecue your 577-6666. For more information, Marine Earned Income Tax Credit.
own ribs every Thursday at the Yermo Rear Gate and Navy spouses can call For tax years 2004 and 2005,
Oasis Club. The Yermo rear gate, located Military Spouses Tour Cynthia Harris at the Army Out- military personnel can elect to in-
Members are $8 and non- adjacent to Yermo Road on the Active duty Marine Corps, reach Center at 256-1735. Army clude in earned income excludable
members are $11.50. north side of Yermo Annex, will Navy and Army spouses are in- spouses can call Ruth Cox at the combat zone compensation they
With every purchase receive, be open during traffic hours in the vited to attend a spouses tour of National Training Center, Fort received during the tax year.
half a slab of pork or beef ribs, a morning and afternoon. Fort Irwin and Barstow on April Irwin at 380-3776. Individuals can calculate the
baked or sweet potato, green On non-regular day off Fri- 5, 6 and 7, which is free of charge credit by using the appropriate
salad and rolls. days, the afternoon hours of op- and happens every quarter. Summer Camp worksheet in their Internal Rev-
eration for the rear gate will be The first two days are spent This summer, the Chapel will enue Service 1040, 1040A or
Grass Seed from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. and closed at Fort Irwin with spouses receiv- host a summer camp for students 1040EZ tax packet. IRS publica-
The housing office has pur- on RDO Fridays. ing informational meetings and a grades four through 12. tion ‘Armed Forces’ Tax Guide,’
chased new containers for grass Only vehicles with DOD au- tour of the base that introduces The camp will be held at Iron- provides tax information specifi-
seed, which will be placed near thorized stickers or government services available at the base and wood Christian Camp in cally for active members of the
each coordinator’s garage door licensed vehicles will be let military life in general. Newberry Springs, Calif. armed forces.
and on Club Street near the pal- through this gate. Day three will begin with a The cost is $230. Sign up as For more information, visit the
let of top soil. All other vehicles, to include tour of Goldstone Deep Space soon as possible to guarantee a tax center in Building 236 or visit
Lids are to be kept on at all those using temporary passes, Communications Complex. By spot. www.irs.gov/eitc, a part of the
times to avoid anything from get- visitors passes and commercial mid-afternoon the spouses will The following camp dates are IRS Web site dedicated to EITC.
head off to the Veterans Home offered for children in grades four
of California -- Barstow, located through seven: “News Briefs” is de-
Medical Inspector General to Visit on Barstow Road, at 11:45 a.m. June 20 through 25 signed to disseminate infor-
for lunch. July 5 through 9 mation to the MCLB
The Medical Inspector General is sceduled to visit MCLB Following presentations by the July 11 through 16 Barstow community.
Barstow Tuesday from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Oasis Club. Veterans Home Public Relations The camp dates for children Submissions should in-
Base personnel are invited to attend an interactive focus Department and the Barstow Po- in grades seven through 12 are: clude a point of contact and
group discussion about health care received at the Barstow lice Department, spouses will re- June 27 through July 2 phone number, and be re-
Branch Medical Clinic. ceive discount coupons for shops July 1 through 6 ceived Thursdays before
All active duty military, family members and retirees are at the Factory Merchants Outlet July 18 through 23 noon for consideration in the
welcome to attend. Plaza and Tanger Factory Outlet July 25 through 30 next week’s issue. Submit
For more information, contact Lt. Cmdr. Donna Jefcoat at Center. August 8 through 13 news briefs via e-mail to
577-6575. The tour will end at 3:30 p.m. For more information, call the editor@barstow.usmc.mil.
Participants should dress for Marine Memorial Chapel at 577-
4 March 31, 2005
Don’t get scammed out of an education
Scholarship scams more prevalent than ever before
By Cpl. Ashley Warden victim of a scholarship scam, it scholarship or grant that a
Combat Correspondent is important to know what is student won’t have to person-
out there, he added. ally apply for by filling out an
In recent years, having a Common scams include application,” Villeme said. To
college education is an ever- guarantees, companies that win a scholarship, people must
increasing factor in whether a claim they’ll do all the work, submit applications, write
person will qualify for a job or companies that claim you’re a essays and solicit letters of
not. The average cost of a finalist and companies that recommendation on their own;
four-year public college or want credit card or bank there is no way to avoid this
university is $5,132 a year. The information. work.
average cost of a new text- “Some companies will Some scams entail a letter
book is $102.44. Yet, getting a contact you by mail or e-mail claiming that a person is a
scholarship could cost more and guarantee you’ll get finalist to win a major scholar- Photo by Cpl. Ashley Warden
than people think. scholarship money or money ship from a company. In order A Marine answers questions on a scholarship application to receive money
Recently, some Marines and back,” said Villeme. “They to win, the recipient must fill for college. To avoid being a victim of a scholarship scam, make sure to
employees from MCLB charge about $50 to $100 and out the enclosed application only give your personal information to a legitimate sholarship fund.
Barstow were targeted and send a list of places offering and send a check. Once they mine how much need there is have become a victim of a
scammed out of a scholarship scholarships you might qualify receive the money they will for money. Remember, this scholarship scam, contact
and their money when the for. It is important to remember inform the person if they have information was already Villeme at 577-6118 or the
scam artists got access to their though, no one can guarantee a won or not. provided on the application, Office of the Staff Judge
checking accounts and stole scholarship.” If someone receives one of Villeme said. Advocate at 577-6874. Scam
money, said Francis Villeme, These companies might give these letters but doesn’t “Never give out personal victims can also contact the
base education officer. you your money back, but after remember entering in a information to someone you National Fraud Information
Since the rise and popularity months pass with no results, contest, be suspicious since don’t know or trust,” he added. Center’s toll free hotline at 1-
of the Internet, virtually most consumers forget about scholarship money will not Perhaps the best way to 800-876-7060 or submit a
everyone with access is a the money. seek a person out, people have prevent becoming a victim of a complaint online at
potential target. If companies contact a to find it themselves, said scholarship scam is to never www.fraud.org.
“These scam artists will go person claiming that they will Villeme. invest more than a postage To report a suspected fraud,
after whoever and whatever do all the work, be suspicious Some scams will even go as stamp to get information about call the Federal Trade Com-
they can to get people to fall in because it is more than likely a far as requesting that they scholarships, states an article mission at 1-877-FTC-HELP
their trap,” said Villeme. scam. need credit card or bank by www.finai.org. or submit a complaint online at
To prevent becoming a “Currently, there is no account information to deter- If anyone suspects they www.ftc.gov.
March 31, 2005 5
Annual NMCRS Fund Drive kicks off
By Lance Cpl. Jenna Lassandrello to more than 1,500 Marines and sailors, “Our goal for this year is 100
Combat Correspondent which enabled bedside visits and reunited percent contact. We want to
families of injured Marines and sailors un- reach all of the Marines, sailors
On March 25, the 2005 Navy-Marine dergoing treatment at military medical fa- and civilians to let them know
Corps Relief Society’s annual fund drive cilities. that the fund drive is going on
officially began. The fund drive is sched- The society also donated $31.5 mil- and why it is important.”
uled to run for four weeks and bring in lion in interest-free loans and grants, the To help tackle this goal, ev-
money through fundraisers and individual ALMAR stated. ery major work section has
donations that will go to support Marines, The fund drive raises money to replen- elected a key volunteer to help
sailors, their families and retirees that are ish the societies’ funds and 100 percent inform their coworkers about
in need. of the donations go to the financial relief the fund and coordinate
The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Soci- of the service members and their fami- fundraisers.
ety is a non-profit charitable organization lies, said Capt. Regina Gustavsson, fund Fundraising is the most popu-
that is sponsored by the Department of drive chairperson. lar and successful way to raise
the Navy that assists service members, During the fund drive Marines, sailors money for the fund drive each
retirees and their families through inter- and civilians can donate cash or raise the year and we hope this year will
est-free loans and grants for emergen- money with a fundraiser. Military mem- be the same, said Gustavsson.
cies, scholarships and interest-free loans bers can also set up an allotment to the “It’s a great program and we
for educational purposes, budget coun- Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society from hope to have a successful year
seling services, food lockers, thrift shops, their basic pay. because it will help out the mili-
visiting nurse services and more. “Last year MCLB Barstow had a tary members, present and past,
During the past 12 months, the soci- great year and raised around $7,200 and and their families,” explained Photo by Curt Lambert
ety has been particularly active in re- then distributed around $7,000 to service Gustavsson. Col. Steven J. Thompson, base commanding officer,
MCLB Barstow, meets with Pearl Brewer, Navy Ma-
sponding to the special needs of the fami- members and retirees,” said Gustavsson. “During this time, when so rine Corps Relief Society volunteer for nearly 40
lies of our Marines and sailors serving in “For 2005, we have already distributed many military families are ex- years, most of which has been spent in the Thrift
Iraq and Afghanistan, according to over $5,000 to help out the local Marines, periencing some type of finan- Shop, during last week’s fund drive kick off.
ALMAR 010/05. sailors and retirees when they were ex- cial hardship because of the war, it is es- contact Gustavsson at 577-6440, or to
Last year, the society provided nearly periencing emergency hardship,” said pecially important to donate.” make a donation, contact your work sec-
$500,000 in combat casualty assistance Gustavsson. For more information on the fund drive tions key volunteer.
6 March 31, 2005
Auto insurance: A must on base
By Cpl. Jeremy Gadrow System, which all California law enforce-
Combat Correspondent ment agencies use.
“We, as military police, have access to
Two new codes, effective July 1, have this information as well,” said Calawor, “and
been added to the California Vehicle Codes we have the ability to access it right away
dealing with auto insurance. when we pull someone over.”
The first code states that all insurance The second code, states that every driver
companies that issue liability insurance poli- and owner of a motor vehicle must be able
cies and all insurance policies issued by an to show proof of insurance and must carry
automobile assigned risk plan must advise that proof of insurance in the vehicle.
the Department of Motor Vehicles when a “You must maintain legitimate car insur-
person’s insurance policy is canceled or ance on base,” said Calawor, “you have to
expires. present proof of insurance in order to get a
“This is going to put more pressure on visitor’s pass, permanent registration or a
the insurance companies,” said Gunnery Sgt. decal.”
Frederick Calawor, staff noncommissioned Penalties under the CVC for presenting
officer in charge of the pass and identifica- fraudulent insurance can include up to a
Photo by Cpl. Jeremy Gadrow
tion office, “but it’s also going to keep one year suspension of driving privileges, a
1st Sgt. Donald George, headquarters battalion first sergeant, observes D.J.
people safer. If you’ve ever been hit by $750 fine and up to 30 days in the county
Bettisch and David Depasquale, contractors working with the Resident Officer in
Charge of Construction Office on base, as they re-hang the American Flag in the someone who didn’t have insurance you jail.
base gym March 23. Lt. Col. Danny Strand, base executive officer, instructed know how much of a headache it can be.” “This goes for people on base as well,”
the crew to take the flag down during installation of the gym's new fire suppres- The information given to the DMV by said Calawor, “the (military police) on base
sion system. George was on hand to direct the contractors on how to properly
insurance companies is sent to the Califor- just write the ticket, its up to the judge to
hang the flag in accordance with Marine Corps Order.
nia Law Enforcement Telecommunications pass a sentence.”
March 31, 2005
7
Foreign-based scam artists hit U.S. residents with counterfeit money orders
Submitted by mailing address to the fraudster and are told
United States Postal Service they will receive a check or postal money
order that they should deposit into their own
WASHINGTON, DC -- A fraud bank account.
scheme making the rounds through Internet The victim then is instructed to immedi-
chat rooms and auction sites, in e-mail mes- ately send the money via Western Union
sages, and over the telephone, is costing or conventional bank wire transfer to a bank
victims in the United States time, money, or person located outside the United States.
and a not-so-pleasant chat with bank and Victims learn the postal money order is
law enforcement officials about passing counterfeit only when they attempt to cash
counterfeit postal money orders. it, or when their bank account takes a hit
According to U.S. Postal Inspectors, the for the full amount when the bank refuses
counterfeit money order scam begins when payment on the bogus deposit. For more
a victim is contacted by someone through information about postal money order se-
an Internet chat room or on-line auction site curity features, visit the U.S. Postal Ser-
claiming to have financial problems or need- vice Web site at www.usps.com/
ing help to cash domestic and/or interna- missingmoneyorders/security.htm.
tional postal money orders. Postal Inspectors warn: Most lures
The person in need often claims to be promising quick-and-easy money are cast
living in a foreign country (usually Nigeria), by fraudsters. These scam artists can eas-
but the scam artist can cook up the scheme ily connect to a sea of strangers through
from any location. The scam artist is sim- the Internet and dangle promising treats,
ply looking to recruit someone in the United hoping someone will bite. Don’t take the
States to cash the money orders and return bait.
the funds via wire transfer. To report a fraud complaint, call the
U.S. residents are lured into the scam Fraud Complaint Hotline at 1-800-372-8347
when they are told they can keep some of or visit the U.S. Postal Inspection Service
the money as a gift or payment for their Web site at www.usps.com/
help. postalinspectors/fraud/MailFraud
Unsuspecting victims provide their home Complaint.htm.
8 March 31, 2005
The BAT of an Eye
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq — Stopping terrorists and insur-
gents is not an easy task. Part of the problem is positively iden-
tifying and keeping track of them, but with the help of
By Cpl. Christi Prickett
2nd Marine Expeditionary Force
modern technology the task is getting much easier.
To assist in the large mission of finding insur- provides information about an individual’s past ease of collecting good quality biometric data
gents, the Marines and local citizens here have to record, for example, if the person had been de- and then searching for a person using that data,”
Corps
look Marines in the eye. tained before or has been wanted for illegal ac- Davis said.
Biometrics Automated Toolset, otherwise tivity. Biometrics also solves the current problem
known as BAT, is being used throughoutAfghani- Davis said, detainees held more than 72 hours of matching the spelling of local names, which
stan and Iraq to keep a database of the terrorists, must be fingerprinted on the better of two finger- is often encountered even when an interpreter
insurgents,local workers and detainees. print scanners capable of working with the com- is available.
Jon E. Davis, field service representative for puter. The majority of Marines working the gates
BAT in the Anbar province, manages the BAT “The normal small one just takes single finger are able to learn how to operate the system in a
network, trains users and administrators and fixes flat prints vice the slap and roll print,” he said. matter of days.
the gear. He has been based at Camp Fallujah The BAT system recently underwent a major “It took me less than a week to learn the
since November. upgrade, completed in November, which now al- computer. The iris scanner is also easy to use,”
“The first few weeks I was here we did a whirl- lows BAT to store more records than the previ- said Lance Cpl. Ivan O. Galvan, II Marine
wind trip around Iraq,” said Davis, a Titusville, Va. ous version. Headquarters Group administrative clerk.
native. “I went with my predecessor to Ramadi, In a matter of seconds, a Marine working at a Iraqi detention facilities, military and police
Blue Diamond, Al Asad and Al Qaim to install gate or check point can collect biometric data academies and entry control points are all using
very high quality fingerprint scanners per Depart- from an individual, search the database in the BAT.
the
ment of Defense regulations.” computer, and look for a match with the many “Most of the cities where major units are
The system works by scanning the iris of an other records already in the database. headquartered have BAT,” said Davis.
eye to take a unique picture and storing it with Some of the factors in the accomplishment of There are six ECP’s in Fallujah proper alone
other information like names, front facial pictures, the program are the equipment and the results. and seven in Ramadi.
Around
and fingerprints to form a profile. The profile also “Success with BAT comes from the relative BAT played a major role in the success of
the recent elections.About 1,050 election work-
ers came to work the polling stations. It only
took 30 hours compared to several days for
them all to be identified or put in the database.
“The election workers came from all over
AlAnbar in groups of 30 to 100. In order to get
them to their designated polling stations, we had
to hurry the process along. The system and the
Marines running it made it happen,” said Davis.
“I was shocked at the ease of how the system
kept the workers from waiting in line so long.”
Even the Marines using the gear have a good
impression of BAT.
Corporal CraigT. Peterson,Chesapeake, Va.,
has worked with BAT at the east gate of Camp
Fallujah for about three-and-a-half weeks.
“I like the system because it provides posi-
tive identification of everyone that walks in. If
the badge and face don’t match up, we turn to
the iris scanner,” said Peterson. “We make sure
everyone is good-to-go before letting them on
base.”
Photo by Cpl. Christi Prickett
Overall, the BATsystem simplifies the track-
Lance Cpl. Ivan O. Galvan does an iris scan on the eye of a local Iraqi. Galvan, a native of Brownsville,
Texas, learned in a matter of days how to operate the Biometrics Automated Toolset, which is being ing of people in and around military bases in the
used to keep track of local detainees and area nationals. Middle East.
March 31, 2005 9
Critters
Creepy
Crawly critters roam the desert sand aboard MCLB Barstow
By Lance Cpl. Nich R. Babb housing here the majority of the
Combat Correspondent time, Fortin said.
Snakes like to live under bushes,
B
eing bitten or stung by an piles of debris and in burrows, said
animal is not a pleasant Fortin. For this reason, if there ever
action to endure, but being is an instance where a person might
bitten or stung by an extremely need to reach into an area that
poisonous animal is even worse. could be a potential home of a
However, being educated on the snake, it is very important that they
dangers that might be present in the check for snakes before reaching
desert might prevent unsuspecting in.
victims from a couple of days of If a person is bitten by one of the
pain later on. animals stated above, it is important
Snakes, spiders, scorpions, bees to call 911 and get the victim to the
and mosquitoes are all creatures hospital as soon as possible, Fortin
that can be found in the Mojave said.
Desert and are potential doers of Some insects that are not going
harm, said Eric Fortin, Marine to send you to the hospital unless
Corps Logistics Base Barstow’s you are allergic to them, but are still Photo courtesy www.kostich.com/ timber_rattlesnake.htm
pest control coordinator. going to be bugging people during A poisonous rattlesnake is poised and ready to deliver a fatal dose to an unsupecting
The three most painful being, the this year’s spring, summer and fall, victim that gets in it’s way.
Black Widow spider, Desert Hairy are bees and mosquitoes, said
scorpion and the Mojave Green
Rattlesnake, Fortin said.
Fortin.
The bees should be treated as if
Desert Tortoise Do’s and Don’ts
The female Black Widow is the they were Africanized bees, be-
most dangerous spider in the United cause Africanized bees are more With the Desert Tortoises finally popping their heads out from within their
States and there just so happens to aggressive than American and burrows, it is the job of the employees and dwellers of Marine Corps Logistics
be an abundance of them here, said European bees, Fortin said. Essen- Base Barstow to keep these tortoises safe.
Fortin. Widows have a shiny black
exoskeleton with a red spot in the
tially if a person does come across
a hive of bees though, “you gotta
The Desert Tortoise is protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act
in addition to being protected by state law. If a person is prosecuted for inter-
shape of an hourglass on their run.”
stomachs. In the case of mosquitoes, the fering with the well being of an endangered tortoise, they could be looking at
Black widow spiders, along with West Nile Virus is a top concern for up to six months in jail and $50,000 worth of fines.
scorpions, live in cluttered areas, Fortin. The best way to eliminate a “The fact that it is federally listed as threatened under the Endangered Species
which might be present in yards or mosquito problem is to get rid of all Act, makes the animal important,” said Charles Sullivan, bureau of land man-
garages. If a person were to keep breeding grounds for them. Prime agement worker.
their area clean and neat, then the
amount of spiders and insects
breeding locations include any place
with standing water, and include: a
The reason the tortoises were suffering from a decline in numbers throughout
would be greatly diminished, said tire with water inside, a filled child’s the years were due to a loss of natural habitat, being hunted by predators such
Fortin. wading pool, a bucket with water as ravens and people abducting them to become their pet.
“Spiders are a house keeping inside and flower pots. In order to help replenish the numbers of the tortoises, there are various actions
problem not a pest control one,” “With all of the rain we’ve had, it that should be taken when coming into contact with a tortoise.
Fortin said. is very important to be aware of all · Never take it out of the desert.
The same untidy areas can also
be homes for rodents, which make
of the breeding sites on your prop-
erty,” Fortin said.
· Always avoid touching the animal, because often times when a tor-
for some good hunting grounds for Spiders, scorpions, snakes, bees toise is lifted, it urinates, which decreases the tortoise’s valuable water supply.
rattlesnakes, such as the Mojave and mosquitoes are not animals that · Do not litter in the tortoise’s habitat.
Green and Sidewinder who both live should be played with, said Fortin. · Domesticated tortoises should never be released into the wild,
in the Mojave Desert, said Fortin. Being aware of the risks involved because they will compete with the Desert Tortoise for food.
Unfortunately, the Mojave Green
is the most poisonous rattlesnake in
with these animals is important for
prevention from being bitten by one.
· Stay on the road or a designated path while driving, because going off
can kill unsuspecting Desert Tortoises.
the United States, with poison that If you are having a pest problem,
is 16 times more harmful than a contact the trouble desk at 577- The tortoises cannot defend themselves, so it is up to the individual to do
Sidewinder’s, and is found in base 6220. what they can to ensure the safety of the tortoise.
10 March 31, 2005
CHILD from Page 1 CHAPLAIN from Page 2 the finish. The silence of the The son had finished the we have. And the greatest
crowd was short lived as it race, and no father could have thing is, as a Christian we have
Child in the same month it combines was too excruciating and he erupted into a roar of encour- been more proud than Jim was a heavenly Father that is ready
efforts to recognize the contribution fell again to the track. agement. Through the searing of his son on that summer day. to help us run that race. He is
and the value of our children during The other runners began to pain, Derek hobbled his way Derek Redmond’s story is a waiting, watching us, ready to
this month, according to the Mar pass him by. Medical personnel down the track. great example of courage, pick us up when we pull our
Admin. The National Child Abuse came to his aid carrying a With only 120 meters to go, determination, and a father’s spiritual hamstrings. He is
Prevention Month theme this year is, stretcher, but he pushed them the man from the stands, with love for his son. ready to carry us when we
“Safechildrenandhealthyfamiliesare away determined to finish the security still chasing him, had The Bible talks many times cannot continue on our own
a shared responsibility.” race. Derek was still laying on made his way across the field of life as an example of a race. strength.
The Marine Corps has always un- the track when all of the other to Derek. He came up beside In Ecclesiastes 9:11, the Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The
derstood the importance of shared re- runners crossed the finish line, Derek and put the runner’s Bible claims that the “race is steps of a good man are
sponsibility and coordinated efforts to but Derek refused to drop out arm over his big shoulders, and not to the swift.” ordered by the LORD: and he
buildstrong,safecommunitiesinwhich of the race. rapped his own arm around the In other words, life is not a delighteth in his way. Though
children can thrive, states the The crowd of 65,000 had runner’s waist. He looked into sprint it is an endurance run. I he fall, he shall not be utterly
MarAdmin. silenced and an eerie peace Derek’s eyes and said, “I am Corinthians 9:24 talks about cast down: for the LORD
“Wetakegreatprideinsettingaside enveloped the arena. No one here, son. We’ll finish this race running the race to receive the upholdeth him with his hand.”
the month to recognize the contribu- moved, that is, except for one together.”And so Jim and reward at the end and it says, God will not let his children
tions and personal sacrifices our chil- gentleman. This gentleman Derek Redmond, father and “Run that ye might obtain.” drop out of the race. He is
dren make for our Corps,” according pushed and shoved his way son, made their way to the But perhaps the greatest ready to hold our hand when it
to the MarAdmin. through the crowd. Security finish line together. analogy in the Bible of life as a needs to be held; and when we
Editor’s note: The Child Devel- tried to stop him, but he forced Just a few feet before the race is found in Hebrew 12:1. cannot finish the race under
opment Center is scheduled to host his way through them to get to finish line, Jim stopped and let This verse says that we must our own strength, he puts his
the annual Month of the Military the track. Derek go so that Derek could “lay aside every weight, and loving arms around us and
Child Picnic for the patrons of the Meanwhile, Derek had risen finish his race alone. Derek the sin that doth so easily beset carries us to the glorious finish
children, youth and teen programs to his feet again. The crowd stepped over the line and the us, and let us run with patience line.
on April 22 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. stared in disbelief as the runner crown erupted again into a the race that is set before us.” So, ask yourself this ques-
The Youth Activity Center is sched- began to limp towards the frenzy. With tears streaking So, through the word of tion. Do you have a relation-
uled to host a Family Fun Day, finish line. One step at a time, down both of their faces, God, it is evident that we are in ship with the heavenly Father
open to everyone on April 23 from Derek fought back the tears of Derek and his father embraced a race; we must finish this who will be ready to help you
noon to 5 p.m. pain as he worked his way to each other. race, do it well, and give it all finish your race of life?
March 31, 2005 11
12 March 31, 2005
pre-registration for the aforemen- National Child Abuse Month as a constant reminder to me to fight
MCCS HAPPENINGS
tioned workshops. ByAlicia Degriffith for our children.”
Pre-registration must be com- April is National ChildAbuse Pre- Child abuse is preventable T oday
pleted two days prior to the class. vention Month, wearing a blue rib- through education, early identifica- - BBQ Your Own Ribs and
Poker Team Night at the Oasis
Registration packets can be bon throughout the month of April tion of children at risk and reporting Club at 5 p.m.
Month of the Military Child picked up at the Child Development symbolizes that we can all make a at risk families to the command or - Darts, pool and CD music
Events Center and Marine & Family Ser- difference in preventing child mis- the FamilyAdvocacy Program, Ma- at the Enlisted Club at 6 p.m.
By Erica Kane vices Office in Building 129. For treatment. rine and Family Services Division. - Family Night Dining at the
more information, contact Erica ChildAbuse is a growing national Stop by the display in the Base Family Restaurant from 4:30 to
In observance of April as Child
7:30 p.m. - Beef Night!
Abuse Prevention Month, Marine & Kane at 577-6533. problem.Eachyearthousandsofchil- Library or Marine and Family Ser- Friday
Family Services will present a vari- The campaign will be augmented dren are abused or neglected by par- vices to pick up a blue ribbon and TGIFriday Family Night at
ety of activities aimed at keeping our by two workshops presented by the ents or others who are responsible participate in the workshops offered. the Oasis at 5 p.m. and Enlisted
community better informed. New Parent Support Program. for their care. Club at 6 p.m.
Saturday
Apublicawarenesscampaignwill On Tuesday, a workshop for par- During the past several years, the Golf Tournament - Family Make & Take Project
kick off with a three-part video as- ents on Child Discipline will be pro- blue ribbon has been widely recog- The Commanding Officer’s Golf Time at the Ceramics Studio
sisted presentation in the library as videdinBuilding129from3to4p.m. nized as a symbol of child abuse Tournament will be heldApril 23 at 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
follows: OnApril 12, a parents’workshop awareness. Tee’s & Trees Golf Course. Each - Bar & Grill Night at the En-
Come in From the Storm: “China ondealingwithchildren’stempertan- This movement began in the team will have four players. Entry listed Club at 5 p.m.
Sunday
Doll” which addresses child emo- trums will be presented in Building spring of 1989, when a concerned fee is $20 and includes green fees. - Bar & Grill with Basketball!
tional and verbal abuse is scheduled 129 from 3 to 4 p.m. grandmother, Bonnie Finney, of Nor- For more information about this at the Enlisted Club.
to be shown Monday from 2 to 3 Displays of brochures, book- folk, VA. , took a stand against child event, or to find out more about Monday
p.m. marks, ribbons and handouts will be abuse after experiencing the death Tee’s & Trees Golf Course call 577- - Karaoke Night! at the Oasis
Come in From the Storm: “The available all month at the library and of her grandson. She tied a symbolic Club.
6431.
- Bar & Grill with Basketball!
Diary,” featuring Emmanuel Lewis, Marine & Family Services Building blue ribbon to her van as a signal to at the Enlisted Club at 5 p.m.
focuses on child physical abuse is 129. her community of her personal com- Culpepper & Merriweather Tuesday
scheduled to be viewedApril 18 from Join this year’s National Cam- mitment to involve everyone in the Circus - Burn your own Steak Night
2 to 3 p.m. paign to promote: “Safe Children and battle to stop child abuse. The Culpepper & Merriweather & with a free movie at the Oasis
Healthy Families as a Shared Re- Why the color blue, explained Circus is scheduled to be at MCLB Club begins at 5 p.m.
Come in From the Storm: “The
- Karaoke Night! at the En-
Necklace,” speaks about child sexual sponsibility”. Bonnie, “I never intend to forget the BarstowApril 27. listed Club at 6 p.m.
abuse is scheduled to be viewedApril For more information, visit the battered, bruised body of my grand- To purchase tickets, contact the Wednesday
25 from 2 to 3 p.m. Marine & Family Services office in child. Bruises are black then even- Information, Tickets and Tours of- - Midweek Relaxation Hour
Child care will be provided with Building 129 or call 577-6533. tually blue. Therefore, blue serves fice at 577-6541. at the Enlisted Club at 6 p.m.
March 31, 2005 13
MISCELLANEOUS: 1999 YAMAHA
YZ 125, Gold excel rims, Hision
clutch, desert tank FMF, new clutch
covers, silencer, new pistons, many
extras, $2,700, OBO. Call cell 951-
375-9630 ask for JP.
MISCELLANEOUS: Used tires/
rims, 245/45 R18, qty-4, 31/10.5 R15,
qty-5, rims and tires, 205/40 R17,
qty-4, 205/75 R14, qty-2, 205/75 R15,
qty-1, 185/65, R14 qty-4, 175/70, R13
qty-1, $20 each tire, Call 256-2434.
MISCELLANEOUS: 25" Magnavox
console TV $75, almost new
looking; carpet cleaner combo with
buffer $75. Call 252-2420.
MISCELLANEOUS: Beautiful eight
piece whitewash Oak, bedroom set
by Ashley furniture, queen size bed,
must see to appreciate also two
twin pine bedroom sets. Call 252-
1311 AWH or cell 267-5323.
MISCELLANEOUS: STIGA Ping
Pong table, new w/accessories,
black, $50, OBO. Call 267-0255.
MISCELLANEOUS: Magnavox
console TV $75, OBO almost new
looking; a carpet cleaner combo with
buffer (industrial type) $75, OBO.
Call 252-2420.
MISCELLANEOUS: Dining room
set, 4 chairs and table, $200. Call
885-7370.
14 March 24, 2005
March 24, 2005 15
16 March 24, 2005
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