Stars and Stripes

Lesbian U.S. war deserter wins stay of deportation

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

A lesbian who deserted the U.S. military and fled to Canada must be given another chance to plead her case for refugee status, Canada's Federal Court ruled Friday.

Fired therapist: Stressed Marines get shoddy care

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Marines treated at Camp Lejeune for post-traumatic stress had to undergo therapy for months in temporary trailers where they could hear bomb blasts, machine-gun fire and war cries through the thin walls, according to servicemen and their former psychiatrist.

U.S. to drop shooting case against Blackwater guard

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Justice Department intends to drop manslaughter and weapons charges against one of the Blackwater Worldwide security guards involved in a deadly 2007 Baghdad shooting, prosecutors said in court documents Friday.

Levin: could be more e-mails from Ft. Hood suspect

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The government intercepted at least 18 e-mails between the alleged Fort Hood gunman and a radical Muslim cleric, and a key senator says there could be more communications that might have tipped off law enforcement or military officials.

Pacific scoreboard for the November 22 edition

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Okinawa Boys basketball Friday's summary Kadena 92, Koza 58 At Kadena Air Base Koza 13 15 16 14�58 Kadena 33 20 20 19�92 Scoring�...

Transfers boost Kadena, E.J. King

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The season is just a few days old, but three transfers from DODEA Europe high schools are providing an immediate boost for Kadena's and E.J. King's boys basketball teams.

Ethics issues surface in Tricare contract bid

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Aetna Government Health Plans of Hartford, Conn., appears to have gained an unfair advantage in competing for Tricare's North Region support contract, valued at $16.7 billion, by hiring a former chief of staff at Tricare headquarters to help draft its winning proposal.

6th Fleet gets new skipper

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

NAPLES, Italy � Vice Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr. assumed command of the U.S. Navy 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, from Vice Adm. Bruce W. Clingan on Wednesday, according to a Navy news release...

USO to focus on women

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

For years, the United Service Organizations has been sending care packages filled with items such as DVDs, phone cards, beef jerky and playing cards. But now, some of the boxes will contain items specifically for women in the war zones

Army unit to return to region of deadly battle

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment is heading back to the same region where it took part in the Army's deadliest battle in Afghanistan.

In Golestan, changing mission could mean troops must move on

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

When U.S. Marines first entered this stark, scenic valley nearly two years ago, their mission was to build up local security forces and eliminate the Taliban resistance. Marine commanders are wondering: Now that they have been committed to Golestan for the past two years, how can they just leave?

Nine hurt as military plane makes emergency landing in Mali

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

A military aircraft carrying U.S. Africa Command personnel was forced to make an emergency landing Thursday in Mali, causing non-life-threatening injuries to the nine people aboard the cargo plane, AFRICOM reported Friday.

As separation rates plummet, military getting more selective

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Fewer servicemembers are retiring or leaving the military than at any time in the past five years, according to Defense Department data.

Army relents, will allow media at Palin book event at Fort Bragg

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The U.S. Army said Friday it would open Sarah Palin's appearance on Fort Bragg to media, a reversal from earlier in the week when the military wanted the event closed out of fears it would prompt political grandstanding against President Barack Obama.

Some lawmakers send few to academies

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

As the nation's military academies try to recruit more minorities, they aren't getting much help from members of Congress from big-city districts with large numbers of blacks, Hispanics and Asians.

200 Web sites spread al-Qaida's message in English

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Increasing numbers of English-language Web sites are spreading al-Qaida's message to Muslims in the West. They translate writings and sermons once largely out of reach of English readers and often feature charismatic clerics like Anwar al-Awlaki, who exchanged dozens of e-mails with the Army psychiatrist accused of the Fort Hood shootings.

Iraq sentences militia leader to death

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

An Iraqi court on Thursday sentenced the Sunni leader of a government-allied paramilitary group to death for murder and kidnapping in a case that highlighted tensions over the treatment of former insurgents who turned against al-Qaida.

Military experiment seeks to predict PTSD

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Pfc. Jesse Sheets is part of a military experiment to try to predict who's most at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder. Understanding underlying triggers might help reduce the burden of those who return psychologically wounded � if they can get early help.

Gates says any Afghan surge could happen swiftly

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Defense Secretary Robert Gates said any new U.S. forces President Barack Obama sends to Afghanistan could move into the country swiftly, despite logistical hassles that force almost all major deliveries of troops and supplies to go by air.

Senate passes benefits for wounded veterans' caregivers

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Senate on Thursday unanimously passed legislation that would provide monthly stipends and medical benefits to family members who stay home to care for severely injured veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Pacific scoreboard for the November 21 edition

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Guam Wrestling Wednesday's results At Agana Heights Guam High 54, St. Paul Christian 16 Note: Scores and pin times not available 103 po...

Pacific briefs: USO, Skype to provide Thanksgiving calls home

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

United Service Organizations and Skype will connect over the Thanksgiving holiday to offer overseas servicemembers video-telephone calls to families back home. Times and dates for the M...

No butts about it: DOD wants you to quit

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Military health workers were full of gimmicks for the 2009 Great American Smokeout, an American Cancer Society campaign supported by bases around the world. It aims to get people to stop using tobacco for at least 24 hours.

Army fears anti-Obama politics in Palin event at Fort Bragg

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The U.S. Army plans to prevent media from covering Sarah Palin's appearance at Fort Bragg next week, fearing the event will turn into political grandstanding against President Barack Obama, officials said Thursday.

Hooah! Postal service to speed up for soldiers in Afghanistan

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The U.S. Army is spending $500,000 to launch HooahMail, a service starting Dec. 1 in which family and friends can send letters electronically to anyone serving in Afghanistan.

Story�s source questionable

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

[I am an active-duty soldier currently deployed to Afghanistan. I write this not in my official capacity, but as a reflection of my personal opinion and that of the experiences of a commissione...

Grateful for military spouses

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Things are looking up for military members and their families assigned to South Korea. U.S. Forces Korea has announced a goal of having half of its 28,500 members serving three-year, command-sp...

Chuck Norris on comics pages?

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I support the writer of "'Zits' nudes criticized" (letter, Nov. 10) [for the parody on the "Love is ..." comic]). Please...

Gates orders full-spectrum Pentagon review of Fort Hood massacre

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Pentagon will conduct a department-wide review in the aftermath of the Fort Hood shooting, taking a broad look at the mental health of the force as well as at procedures for sharing intelligence and assessing personnel performance.

South Koreans line Seoul streets to welcome, protest Obama

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

SEOUL � Thousands of South Koreans lined downtown streets Thursday to give President Barack Obama a rock-star-worthy welcome, complete with signs, flags and chants in support for the ongoing al...

Obama says North Korea must alter behavior

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

SEOUL, South Korea � President Barack Obama said Thursday that North Korea must "break the pattern" of provocative actions and return to international talks if it hopes to get economic aid and ...

GAO claims fraud in government contracts for disabled vets

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Companies fraudulently collected at least $100 million in federal contracts from a $4 billion government program designated for disabled military veterans who run small businesses, congressional investigators charge.

At Osan, Obama talks about deployments

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

President Barack Obama drew repeated cheers and applause during a speech to U.S troops at Osan Air Base, South Korea, Thursday � except when he mentioned that some may deploy once again to a war zone.

Army may separate short-term soldiers

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Soldiers who chose not to re-enlist or extend when their units are getting ready to deploy downrange will be getting out of the Army a little earlier than they planned, according to Army guidance released this week.

Troubled Afghan president begins his second term

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Under intense pressure to fix his corrupt government, Afghan President Hamid Karzai is expected to strike a balance in his second inaugural speech Thursday: answer international demands for reform while appeasing political allies who returned him to power.

AP source: Ex-DOD official to head Fort Hood shooting review

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Defense Secretary Robert Gates has tapped a former senior defense official to lead a broad Pentagon review of the circumstances surrounding the Fort Hood shootings, The Associated Press has learned.

Guam lawmaker announces submarine swap

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The USS Oklahoma City, a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine, will move to Guam next year and replace the USS City of Corpus Christi, according to a news release from Guam's congresswoman, U.S. Rep. Madeleine Bordallo.

Military in Europe addressing swine flu

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Military doctors and commanders have taken to the airwaves and have held town hall meetings to address concerns and questions about the swine flu and the vaccine to treat the illness.

Europe all-region and all-conference teams

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Football 2009 all-conference teams (Chosen by conference coaches) Division I-North Offense Quarterback�Michael Wallace (Ramstein) Running backs�Dallin Bridges (Kai...

Pacific scoreboard for the November 20 edition

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Guam Boys soccer Tuesday's summary Guam High 3, St. John's 1 At Agana Heights St. John's 0 1--1 Guam High &nbs...

Helping vets a slow process

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I would like to thank Stars and Stripes for "Stop-loss application error fixed" (article, Nov. 14). However, you might ...

Bases� anti-self-defense policy

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The tragic results of victim disarmament were made real with the shooting at Fort Hood, Texas. If this were a moral and proper world, as soon as the suspect, Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, drew his we...

Smoked out in Iraq

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I have been working in close proximity to a burn pit for five months now ("Burning question," article, Nov. 6). It makes...

Stories in this week's U.S. edition

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

...

Army tests wallpaperlike material that could keep out blast debris

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany � One idea the Army is testing to safeguard its soldiers is a wallpaperlike material that protects building occupants from blasts. The material is called X-Flex an...

Volksmarch column for the November 19 edition

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Next Thursday is the Ramstein Roadrunner's Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. We are featuring the walk this week so that on Thanksgiving morning you can be out on the trail bright and early....

Let's go / Best bets for the November 19 edition

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Free train to Hamburg Through Dec. 12, Hamburg, Germany, is offering a package called "Bahnhit Hamburg" that includes free round-trip, second-class train travel to the city from ...

Maersk Alabama repels second pirate attack

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Maersk Alabama, which was at the center of a standoff between the U.S. military and Somali pirates earlier this spring, was attacked again by pirates Wednesday.

Pacific Athletes of the Week for the November 19 edition

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Success doesn�t rest: Fall coaches already looking toward next year

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Helmets and pads are going back on shelves; the tennis rackets, volleyball nets and cross-country cones are being stashed in supply closets; and the singlets, headgear and basketballs are being rolled out for the winter season. But for some, putting down fall sports is proving difficult.

Misawa to hold service for late schoolteacher

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan � A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the base chapel for a base teacher who died Nov. 12. Margaret A. Marsett was discovered unresponsive in her ...

Officials working to make Camp Humphreys more child-friendly

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

PYEONGTAEK, South Korea � Camp Humphreys officials are seeking a workable plan that would permit mothers to breast-feed their children discreetly in public places on post. They're also ...

U.S. task force in Kosovo gets new leader

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

As Kosovo prepared for last Sunday's elections � the first since declaring independence from Serbia � a new U.S.-led task force took responsibility of NATO's Multi-National Task Force-East.

Wrestling officials needed for Kaiserslautern meets

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

If you like wrestling and need a little extra cash, the Kaiserslautern Officials' Association wants you ... immediately.

Gay officer says a new policy would not alter his discretion

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

If "don't ask, don't tell" were repealed tomorrow, don't expect soldiers like John to jump on a table and proclaim their sexuality to the world.

If gays can openly serve, will straights still want to?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Stephen Vossler is an outspoken advocate for allowing homosexuals to serve in the military openly, saying his experience is the perfect example of the transition from awkwardness to acceptance that most troops will work through if the ban is overturned.

New training helps wounded get ready for combat again

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Warrior Transition Unit officials have introduced two new training programs aimed at returning injured troops to their regular military duties.

As injuries increase out of Afghanistan, WTUs adjust entry criteria

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Army warrior transition units have seen a small surge in the number of patients coming from Afghanistan in recent months, but overall the number of soldiers being sent to the specialized care units has dramatically dropped in the last year because of tighter restrictions on admitting troops.

Army suicides may top 2008 level, but progress reported

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Soldier suicides in the Army in 2009 are on pace to top last year's numbers but Army officials said Tuesday they believe a decline in the rate of such deaths signals they are making progress in grappling with the problem.

Russia�s many time zones

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

In reference to "Too many hours in the day?" (article, Nov. 14): Do politicians not know that the time zones are created to have the hours in each time zone match the sun's occurrence over that...

It wasn�t worth a story

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

[The writer of] "Stop the complaining" (letter, Nov. 10) apparently thinks the numerous Army re...

Back to the point

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Let me start by congratulating [the writer of] "Stop the complaining" (letter, Nov. 10) on misinterpreting t...

Rethink gun policy

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

First, I would like to express my deepest sympathy for all of the soldiers and family members affected by the tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas. One thing everyone seems to not consider is tha...

Keep diversity at all costs?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Immediately after the shootings at Fort Hood, Texas, the Army's top officer, Gen. George Casey, said, "As horrific as this tragedy was, if our diversity becomes a casualty, I think that's ...

British vet thanks U.S. troops

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

In the United Kingdom we have just remembered those who have fallen in the defense of their country and the Free World. As a former noncommissioned officer in the light infantry (rifles)...

Air Force plans to reduce ranks by 3,700

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Air Force announced plans on Monday to cut 3,700 airmen, saying the mix of a poor economy and good retention has swelled its ranks beyond manageability. The service will cut 2,074 officers and 1,633 enlisted airmen through "voluntary and involuntary early separation and retirement programs."

Teacher at Misawa school dies

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan � A Cummings Elementary School teacher was pronounced dead Nov. 12 after being discovered unresponsive in her off-base home, according to school officials. Japane...

Army identifies soldier killed in Kadena crash

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa � The soldier killed in a three-car crash Friday on Kadena has been identified as Pfc. Michael W. Shipman Jr., 19. An Army spokesman said Monday that Shipman � a...

Japanese official: Consider moving Marines to Kadena

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada wrapped up his two-day visit to Okinawa on Monday promising to continue to look into alternatives to replacing Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.

Grateful for Air Force service

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I thank my brothers and sisters in blue for everything they do. I have been on the needing end of close air support and have appreciated the Air Force's effort. I don't care what the s...

Serving with �real pilots�

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

"The War Room" (article, Oct. 27), about the drone pilots and crewmembers having a hard time, is a joke....

Alternative to Sikh turban

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I must strongly voice my objection to "Bad decision on Sikh officer" (letter, Oct. 27), about the Army's deci...

Two museums recall battles, life in Netherlands

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The little-known tank battle lasted three weeks. By the time the fighting migrated to the south and east, there wasn't much left of the Dutch village of Overloon. Only one house survived intact.

Attorney for fatal hit-and-run suspect says interrogation statements skewed

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The Japanese attorney representing a soldier being held in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident on Okinawa has asked prosecutors to require videotaping of any future questioning of the suspect.

Japanese official on Okinawa to review U.S. base options

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada arrived Sunday on Okinawa to investigate the feasibility of moving Marine air operations on the island to Kadena Air Base. During the two-day visit he will view Camp Schwab, the controversial site of a replacement airstrip designed to replace Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and hold talks with local and military officials.

S. Koreans eager for answers from Obama

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

When President Barack Obama arrives Wednesday in Seoul, most of the world will be watching to see what he says about tempestuous North Korea. But many South Koreans will be paying as much attention to what he says about a stalled trade agreement with the United States and their country's unpopular involvement in the war in Afghanistan.

Servicemembers clean up paint from the past

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

An off-hand comment about graffiti painted by Americans on a rocky South Korea mountaintop has sparked an unusual hobby of sorts for several servicemembers of a Yongsan Garrison unit.

Kadena claims Class AA football crown in runaway

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

After losing in heartbreaking fashion in two previous Far East Class AA football title clashes with Seoul American, Kadena left nothing to chance in Saturday's third encounter.

Definitely not the right stuff

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Whenever I have a hard time coming up with subject matter for this column, I either write about the dog, my most recent trip to the commissary or something from the deep, dark past that I'm fin...

Spouse calls Stigma compounds PTSD issues

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

A woman with post-traumatic stress disorder wrote to give her perspective of life with this condition and the stigma it carries: Q. I just read an article of yours suggesting tha...

Of Music and Morality

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Flyleaf's Lacey Mosley Sturm is used to performing before thousands of fans, but one of her more memorable concerts was for a few dozen troops gathered around a picnic table in Afghanistan....

Kadena hosts 10th Anniversary Special Olympics

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Not all the competitors could take first place in their events, but they all were winners in the eyes of the spectators.

�Modern Warfare 2�

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

"Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2" promises to be one of the biggest games of the year. Unfortunately, it didn't arrive in time to run a full review in this edition of Scene. S...

�Star Wars� for new generation

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

If you're dreaming of re-creating the adventures of Ahsoka Tano, you're probably about 10 and probably will enjoy "Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes." The T-rated game...

�Dragon Age: Origins� delivers treasure trove of content

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Bards will sing of the day when courageous men and women stood against the dreaded darkspawn and smote them with the mighty press of an A button. "Dragon Age: Origins" will defi...

Swimming, biking and running try the endurance of participant

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I've always thought of myself as an adrenaline junkie, always up for a challenge and willing to push my body to its physical limits. So when an opportunity recently presented itself, I jumped at the challenge.

Pacific High School Scoreboard for the November 16, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Football Class A Championship Saturday, Nov. 7 Zama American 46, Daegu American 38 Class AA At Camp Foster, Okinawa Semifinals Monday, Nov. 9<...

Daegu American wins second Class A crown in four seasons

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

After lofting its second Far East High School Girls Class A Volleyball Tournament banner in four years, Daegu American just might be on to something, coach Joanna Wyche thinks.

Pacific scoreboard for the Sunday, November 15, 2009 edition

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Far East Class AA football preview: Kadena, Seoul American showcase contrasting styles

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Few, except maybe the Falcons themselves, might have seen coming Seoul American's 15-0 Class AA semifinal shocker Tuesday over Guam High.

Kadena completes tennis titles sweep

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

As dramatic and exciting as the girls championships were, the boys finals were totally devoid of either.

Pacific scoreboard for the November 14 edition

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

High school DODEA Pacific Far East High School Fall Sports Tournaments Girls Class AA Volleyball At Coral Reef Fitness & Sports Center, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam Sin...

Bases should get incinerators

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I believe in our soldiers and their spouses. I've been around long enough and have no doubt that the Department of Defense is covering it up (

Is burn pit smoke OK?

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I won't pretend to be a scientist or a doctor. However, not being one does not make one stupid or unable to practice critical thinking. The U.S. government and Department of Defense must ...

Acquisition systems fail troops

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

There has been much discussion in the Army about the quality of our weapons and uniform patterns. The answers are within our grasp, but the Army acquisition systems are failing us. What...

Disgusted by KBR practices

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I am appalled, but not surprised, by yet another apparent disregard for ethics and unscrupulous practices by KBR (&qu...

Bushes� low profile at Hood

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

[Former President George W. Bush and wife Laura] didn't want a photo op. They snuck in under the radar [after the shooting at Fort Hood, Texas] and lent their time, thoughts and prayers to our ...

Shooting motive is clear

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I see that the Army is responding to the shootings at Fort Hood, Texas, with a massive, wasteful, futile, politically correct program of "resiliency training." We profess ign...

Firearms policy shameful

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

...

Veterans Day Observance

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

...

Let soldiers defend themselves

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

My condolences and prayers go out to the families of those killed and injured at Fort Hood, Texas. I see zero differences between [the suspect], Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, and suicide bom...

Attacks on Obama demoralizing

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

In response to "No fan of 'Obama's fan club' " (letter, Oct. 28): I find it very demoralizing that a soldier would air his opinion on the quality of his leadership in a public venue. ...

Chance wasted in Afghanistan

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

[I work in a public affairs office, but am writing to offer my personal opinion]: Afghanistan's fraud-tainted election handed the world an opportunity to hit the reset button and erase the bigg...

Looking for some group fun? Join the club

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Whether you are new to Europe's ski slopes or a veteran of its toughest runs, one of the best ways to enjoy outdoor sports during the winter season is to join a ski club.

New lifts, special deals at Edelweiss

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

It may not be in full swing yet, but an early blast of snow already has kick-started the ski season in Garmisch, Germany, an auspicious omen for winter sports enthusiasts eager to hit the slopes.

Far afield in Switzerland: Great skiing rewards effort to reach tiny, remote area

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

This is the way skiing used to be. Last year, German friends invited my husband and me for a ski week at their cabin in Radons, a Swiss hamlet from which we could ski the slopes of Savognin. There was no bus dropping us off at the door of a comfortable hotel. No help with skis, boots and suitcases. No lifts right out the door. We were in the boonies.

Prognosticator says there will be snow, but less than last year

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

In the winter, skiers, snowboarders and schoolchildren look to the sky for one thing � snow. So what will Old Man Winter bring this year? It's too early to tell, said climatologist Harald Strauss, who explains that predicting the winter season is hardly a science.

Europe has plenty of locations for off-piste skiing

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The European Alps boast some of the most spectacular off-piste skiing in the world. Fortunately for American skiers stationed in Europe, the majority of Europeans have little interest in straying off the groomed runs, leaving plenty of virgin powder for visiting free skiers to enjoy.

Best bets

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Austria: According to the Vienna Web site, in 1298 Albrecht I granted the city the privilege of holding a December market, or "Krippenmarkt." The tradition is going strong toda...

Let's Go

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

USO Christmas market tours Expand your Christmas market experiences in Germany, France and the Netherlands on one-day tours organized by the United Service Organizations. Dependi...

Happy with football coverage

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Congratulations, Stars and Stripes. I was pleasantly surprised to read about the DODDS-Europe Division I championship football game in Sunday's Stars and Stripes. Good job! Normally we ...

Stop war of words

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Knock it off! All of you! I read the supporting and condemning letters to the editor on Nov. 5 referring to "The War...

Can�t relate to their stress

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I have little sympathy for airmen and officers who complain about the stress and operation tempo of piloting unmanned aerial vehicles stateside ("

Vogelweh drawdown madness

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The drawdown of Vogelweh, Germany, continues. I found out that the auto skills shop at Kapaun Air Station will no longer perform any sort of repair services. This on top of the Community ...

Belts are no big deal

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

"Airmen sound off on reflective belts" (article, Nov. 5) is not helping the case that people are preaching for "The War ...

Quick Trips: With beautiful views, Hohenzollern Castle's mountaintop site is popular with tourists

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Atop a foothill of the Swabian Alb mountain range, about 40 miles south of Stuttgart, Germany, the house of the Hohenzollerns stands over the trees in an image that seems to have leapt from the pages of a fairy tale. Hohenzollern Castle, built in the 11th century, was the home of the Hohenzollern family who ruled Prussia and Brandenburg in the Middle Ages.

Homefront: Embracing the circus-like quality of family

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

This week, I have decided to steal an idea from Bil Keane, the creator of the comic strip "The Family Circus." Over the years, he has often taken "vacations" and left it up ...

Spouse Calls: Overseas moves take forethought

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Our first four moves as a military family were transoceanic, so I learned early on that moving overseas requires thorough planning and good advice. Official channels will provide the regu...

�Rock Band� for everyone

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Parents eager for a little less sex and drugs in their kids' rock 'n' roll will like "Lego Rock Band." However, the E10-rated rhythm game � developed by Harmonic and Traveller's...

�Forza� on fast track to fun

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Variety can spice up any game, and it's what makes "Forza Motorsport 3" such a delicious treat. The E-rated racing game � developed by Turn 10 for Microsoft Game Studios � d...

�DJ Hero� in the groove

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Music games are great for guitar heroes and rock bands, but not so hot for dancers. Scratch that! And blend it, too. "DJ Hero" � developed by FreeStyleGames for Activision �...

Money Talk: Consider these factors before refinancing loan

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Dear Liz: When does it make sense to refinance a home? I have a 30-year, fixed-rate jumbo loan. The loan is just over 2 years old with a rate of 6.5 percent. Should I refinance to 5.75 perce...

Use your commissary to save big bucks

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

A buddy showed me an article recently touting the 30 percent savings realized by shopping at the commissary. Not being a regular commissary shopper that number got me thinking. My family probab...

Everyone is welcome at a tournament of traditional Japanese sport

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Seeing a sumo tournament live in Japan is a must. I'd seen a clip or two on television, but watching it on the tube doesn't do the sport justice. One might think that anyone can get big and put on a diaper � it's actually called a "mawashi" � and slap another fat guy around a ring a few times.

The Renaissance of G�rlitz

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Our first encounter with G�rlitz was miserable. In 1978 my wife, Heidi, and I traveled to Poland by car. It meant using the transit route through eastern Germany, the DDR, the Deutsche Demokratische Republik, the former communist country of East Germany. To use the transit route, even West Germans needed a visa and they had to use designated border crossings when entering and leaving the DDR. In our case, the border crossing into Poland was at G�rlitz at the Neisse River, the eastern border of East Germany.

Best bets

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Germany: Throughout 2009, Berlin has been celebrating "20 Years Since the Fall of the Wall," the anniversary of the opening of transit points between East and West Berlin. On N...

Let's go

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Hockenheimring package The Hockenheimring racetrack between Heidelberg and Speyer in the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg is an international destination, each year hosting the ...

Quick Trips: Comforts for creatures

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

"How did they get up there?" I watched, bewildered, as about a dozen mountain goats bounded around a cliff that went up at least 100 feet, bouncing acrobatically up and down ledges to get where they wanted to be in their home away from home.

Money Talk: Parents with good credit can help kids build scores

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Dear Liz: My credit scores are good (over 800 when I refinanced my mortgage last year). I was thinking of listing my son, who is 14, as an authorized user of my credit cards to start establi...

After hours: Plaza House Chinese Restaurant, Okinawa

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

For me and my family, dining here is like meeting a longtime friend. Good food and warm hospitality are something we can fully count on at Plaza House Chinese Restaurant. The 55-year-old restaurant's interior is designed in relaxed wine tones, and cozy booths are spaciously arranged.

Climbing majestic Mount Seorak

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

By the time I realized that climbing to the peak of a very high mountain with nothing between me and a freefall of several hundred feet wasn't such a good idea, there was no turning back.

After hours: Noodle 1 in Stuttgart, Germany

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

If noodles are your thing, there's a cornerside Vietnamese place that should be required eating. But if you do make a stop at Noodle 1 in downtown Stuttgart, Germany, be sure to take a little patience with you.

Homefront: P.E. grade an exercise in blame-laying

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

I have been a parent long enough to realize there are at least two sides to every story. In my home, there are usually three different versions, each altered in a way that makes "the other" brothers look guilty.

Spouse calls: Post-move life has ups, downs

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

A friend and experienced military wife offered a keen insight about life overseas just before our move to Germany. "You're going to love it," she told us. "But for the first three months, you're going to hate it."

�Ratchet & Clank� twists time

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

When we last saw our heroes, Clank had fallen into the hands of the nefarious Dr. Nefarious and Ratchet was on his way to the rescue.

Take a trip to �Borderlands�

Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Badass psycho midgets! You know you're in for an interesting ride when you meet those politically incorrect little people in "Borderlands." The game � developed by Gearbox Software for 2K Games � deftly mixes the role-playing and shooter genres as it dishes out ornery humor, wild battles, exceptional co-op play and cool cell-shaded graphics.

Germany�s leader of the pack: To study wolves, he must become one, researcher says

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

It's clear who the dominant "wolf" is among the pack of hungry pups. The one in charge lies on the ground, holding the slab of calf meat firmly in his teeth while the fair-coated Arctic canines tear off pieces of raw tendon and flesh. Between bites, they crawl playfully over his back all the while adhering to the group hierarchy, which means they don't abscond with the meal, however tasty.

Europe�s creepy places: Even when it�s not Halloween, boneyards and damp, creaky places can chill the bones

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Haunted house attractions and ghost tours can be a lot of fun during the Halloween season. But some things are naturally spooky, without the fake blood or recorded howls.

Let's go

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Winter tours Stuck for winter fun ideas? Here are two possibilities from Meyer Group Travel. � One is to take a Christmas cruise on the Main and Rhine rivers Dec. 21-28 a...

Best bets

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

England: Starting Monday, festive winter wonderland scenes will brighten the way for shoppers on London's Regent and Oxford streets with the ceremonial turning on of Christmas lights.

Monster links: Castles share name with horror classic

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Interested in visiting Frankenstein's castle this Halloween? In western Germany, you have two good options � one with a tenuous link to Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, the other only to its name.

Marine Corps Marathon Interviews

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

2009 Marine Corps Marathon

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

34th annual Marine Corps Marathon Expo, Washington, DC

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

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Fall river splendor: Don�t miss the Danube near Regensburg, Germany

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

The 1,785-mile course of the Danube river between the Black Forest and the Black Sea flows through some fantastic scenery. But for a mixture of natural and man-made beauty, it is hard to beat the stretch in Bavaria between the Danube Gorge and the city of Regensburg

Let's go

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

Edelweiss deals Through November, if you can get a few days free to add onto your weekend at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch, Germany, you can take 20 percent off the ...

Best bets

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT

France: Check out the Paris contemporary-art scene and talk to the artists Tuesday through Nov. 1 at the city's annual Grand March� d'Art Contemporain, held outdoors on the Place de la B...