Joint Committee Committee Hearing

ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE JOINT ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE February 9, 2016 1:05 p.m.

MEMBERS PRESENT

Senator John Coghill, Co-Chair Representative Gabrielle LeDoux, Co-Chair Senator Pete Kelly Senator Anna MacKinnon Senator Click Bishop Senator Bill Wielechowski Representative Wes Keller Representative Bob Lynn Representative Dan Saddler Representative Geran Tarr

MEMBERS ABSENT

All members present

OTHER MEMBERS PRESENT OTHER MEMBERS

Representative Geran Tarr Representative Louise Stutes Representative Lora Reinbold

PUBLIC MEMBERS PRESENT COMMITTEE CALENDAR

Lieutenant Colonel Tim Jones - retired BRIEFINGS: LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY~ U.S. AIR FORCE~ Colonel George Vakalis - retired COMMANDER~ ALASKA COMMAND U.S. NORTHERN COMMAND; Charles "Chick" Wallace MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS~ U.S. ARMY~ COMMANDING GENERAL~ U.S.

ARMY ALASKA; COMMITTEE CALENDAR COMMISSIONER LAURIE HUMMEL~ COL. (R) U.S. ARMY~ ADJUTANT

GENERAL~ ALASKA NATIONAL GUARD AND COMMISSIONER OF THE ALASKA BRIEFINGS: LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY~ U.S. AIR FORCE~ DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY & VETERANS AFFAIRS; COMMANDER~ ALASKA COMMAND U.S. NORTHERN COMMAND; REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL B. ABEL~ U.S. COAST GUARD~ COMMANDER~ MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS~ U.S. ARMY~ COMMANDING GENERAL~ U.S. SEVENTEENTH COAST GUARD DISTRICT. ARMY ALASKA;

COMMISSIONER LAURIE HUMMEL~ COL. (R) U.S. ARMY~ ADJUTANT PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION GENERAL~ ALASKA NATIONAL GUARD AND COMMISSIONER OF THE ALASKA

DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY & VETERANS AFFAIRS; No previous action to record REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL B. ABEL~ U.S. COAST GUARD~ COMMANDER~

SEVENTEENTH COAST GUARD DISTRICT.

WITNESS REGISTER PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION

LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY, Commander No previous action to record Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command

U.S. Air Force

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska WITNESS REGISTER POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing on the U.S. Air Force

in Alaska. LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY, Commander

Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS, Commanding General U.S. Air Force U.S. Army Alaska Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing on the U.S. Air Force POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing on the United States in Alaska. Army Alaska PowerPoint.

MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS, Commanding General LIEUTENANT COLONEL TIM JONES U.S. Army Alaska U.S. Army, Retired Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska Fairbanks, Alaska POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing on the United States POSITION STATEMENT: During the presentation asked a question of Army Alaska. Major General Owens.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL TIM JONES ADJUTANT GENERAL LAURIE HUMMEL, Commissioner U.S. Army, Retired Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Fairbanks, Alaska Alaska National Guard, Adjutant General POSITION STATEMENT: During the presentation asked a question of JBER, Alaska Major General Owens. POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing related to the

Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. ADJUTANT GENERAL LAURIE HUMMEL, Commissioner

Department of Military & Veterans Affairs CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT PAUL NELSON Alaska National Guard, Adjutant General Alaska National Guard Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing related to the POSITION STATEMENT: Discussed the ethical fitness initiative. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

COLONEL KAREN MANSFIELD, Commander CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT PAUL NELSON Alaska Air National Guard Alaska National Guard Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of the Alaska Air POSITION STATEMENT: Discussed the ethical fitness initiative. National Guard.

COLONEL KAREN MANSFIELD, Commander COLONEL JOE STREFF, Commander Alaska Air National Guard Alaska Army National Guard Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of the Alaska Air POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of the Alaska Army National Guard.

COLONEL JOE STREFF, Commander SARGEANT MAJOR MARC PETERSEN Alaska Army National Guard State Command Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska Alaska Army National Guard POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of the Alaska Army Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska National Guard. POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of certain military

support in Alaska. SARGEANT MAJOR MARC PETERSEN

State Command REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL ABEL, Commander Alaska Army National Guard Seventeenth Coast Guard District Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska United States Coast Guard POSITION STATEMENT: Presented an overview of certain military Juneau, Alaska support in Alaska. POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing of the United States

Coast Guard in Alaska. REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL ABEL, Commander

Seventeenth Coast Guard District

United States Coast Guard ACTION NARRATIVE Juneau, Alaska

POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a briefing of the United States 1:05:26 PM Coast Guard in Alaska.

CO-CHAIR JOHN COGHILL called the Joint Armed Services Committee

meeting to order at 1:06 p.m. Representatives Keller, Saddler, ACTION NARRATIVE and LeDoux, and Senators Bishop, MacKinnon, Kelly, and

Wielechowski, Coghill, and public members George Vakalis, Dick 1:05:26 PM Wallace, and Lieutenant Colonel Tim Jones were present at the

call to order. Representatives Lynn and Tarr and Senator Kelly CO-CHAIR JOHN COGHILL called the Joint Armed Services Committee arrived as the meeting was in progress. meeting to order at 1:06 p.m. Representatives Keller, Saddler,

and LeDoux, and Senators Bishop, MacKinnon, Kelly, Wielechowski, ^BRIEFINGS: Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air Force, and Coghill, and public members George Vakalis, Dick Wallace, Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; and Lieutenant Colonel Tim Jones were present at the call to Major General Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, order. Representatives Lynn and Tarr arrived as the meeting was U.S. Army Alaska; in progress. Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant

General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska ^BRIEFINGS: Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air Force, Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; Rear Admiral Daniel B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Major General Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, Seventeenth Coast Guard District. U.S. Army Alaska;

Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant BRIEFINGS: Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air Force, General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; Major General Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Alaska; Rear Admiral Daniel B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant Seventeenth Coast Guard District. General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska

Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; Rear Admiral Daniel BRIEFINGS: Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air Force, B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; Major General District. Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army Alaska;

Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant 1:06:45 PM General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska

Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; Rear Admiral Daniel CO-CHAR COGHILL announced that the only order of business would B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard be briefings by Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air District. Force, Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; Major

General Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army 1:06:45 PM Alaska; Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant

General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska CO-CHAR COGHILL announced that the only order of business would Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; and Rear Admiral be briefings by Lieutenant General Russel J. Handy, U.S. Air Daniel B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Force, Commander, Alaska Command U.S. Northern Command; Major Guard District. General Bryan Owens, U.S. Army, Commanding General, U.S. Army

Alaska; Commissioner Laurie Hummel, Col. (R) U.S. Army, Adjutant 1:08:12 PM General, Alaska National Guard and Commissioner of the Alaska

Department of Military & Veterans Affairs; and Rear Admiral CO-CHAIR COGHILL expressed appreciation for the legislature's Daniel B. Abel, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Seventeenth Coast involvement with the military, for past co-chairs Senator Kelly Guard District. and Representative Saddler, and for the men and women who serve

in the military. 1:08:12 PM

CO-CHAIR LEDOUX thanked all [members of the military present at CO-CHAIR COGHILL expressed appreciation for the legislature's the meeting] for their service to the United States. involvement with the military, for past co-chairs Senator Kelly

and Representative Saddler, and for the men and women who serve CO-CHAIR COGHILL indicated that additional information the in the military. presenters may not have had time to share during the briefing

was contained within the committee packet. CO-CHAIR LEDOUX thanked all [members of the military present at

the meeting] for their service to the United States. 1:09:43 PM

CO-CHAIR COGHILL indicated that additional information the LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY, Commander, Alaska Command presenters may not have had time to share during the briefing U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Air Force, offered a briefing on the was contained within the committee packet. U.S. Air Force in Alaska, and expressed his appreciation for the

opportunity to brag about the men and women serving in Alaska 1:09:43 PM and to serve in a state that "feels like home." He explained

that those in the military move often, and Alaska welcomes the LIEUTENANT GENERAL RUSSEL J. HANDY, Commander, Alaska Command military with open arms, which he said allows the military to U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Air Force, offered a briefing on the operate and train to "remain ready to do the nation's business." U.S. Air Force in Alaska, and expressed his appreciation for the

opportunity to brag about the men and women serving in Alaska 1:10:51 PM and to serve in a state that "feels like home." He explained

that those in the military move often, and Alaska welcomes the CO-CHAIR COGHILL noted that Major General Jacob Lestenkof, USA military with open arms, which he said allows the military to (Ret) was on line listening to the briefing. operate and train to "remain ready to do the nation's business."

LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he would give an overview and show 1:10:51 PM slides, but wanted to keep the discussion open and offered to

produce additional information when requested. He introduced CO-CHAIR COGHILL noted that Major General Jacob Lestenkof, USA A.J. Pinto, sitting with him at the witness table, whom he said (Ret) was on line listening to the briefing. was serving today as a legislative liaison but is normally an

air battle manager. LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he would give an overview and show

slides, but wanted to keep the discussion open and offered to

produce additional information when requested. He introduced 1:12:00 PM A.J. Pinto, sitting with him at the witness table, whom he said

was serving today as a legislative liaison but is normally an LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY began a PowerPoint presentation, titled air battle manager. "Combined Headquarters: America's finest fighting team, engaged

in crises worldwide while securing America's future in the Last

Frontier." He stated he would address strategic environment, 1:12:00 PM offer a year in review, and offer a perspective from the U.S.

Department of Defense (DoD). He noted that Secretary Carter has LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY began a PowerPoint presentation, titled been active with new policies and initiatives. He said he would "Combined Headquarters: America's finest fighting team, engaged not discuss U.S. Army Alaska, the Alaska National Guard, or the in crises worldwide while securing America's future in the Last U.S. Coast Guard, because there are experts to present and Frontier." He stated he would address strategic environment, address those topics. offer a year in review, and offer a perspective from the U.S.

Department of Defense (DoD). He noted that Secretary Carter has 1:13:00 PM been active with new policies and initiatives. He said he would

not discuss U.S. Army Alaska, the Alaska National Guard, or the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 3, titled U.S. Coast Guard, because there are experts to present and "The Way Most View the World" and said it is the usual address those topics. projection that is seen - a flat map of the world, with Alaska

barely in view. He moved on to slide 4, titled, "Our View of 1:13:00 PM the World," which shows "the way we view the world." He said

the image - with the North Pole as the central image - is a much LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 3, titled more accurate way to show the challenges of serving in a global "The Way Most View the World" and said it is the usual environment. He said last year was the warmest on record in the projection that is seen - a flat map of the world, with Alaska Arctic, with multi-year sea ice is melting, which changes the barely in view. He moved on to slide 4, titled, "Our View of way [the U.S. Air Force] is thinking about operations [in the World," which shows "the way we view the world." He said Alaska]. He opined that for the most part people agree now that the image - with the North Pole as the central image - is a much climate change exists, but there is still debate about the more accurate way to show the challenges of serving in a global causes of it. He indicated the focus of the U.S. Air Force is environment. He said last year was the warmest on record in the the need to operate in the Arctic as easily as it can off the Arctic, with multi-year sea ice is melting, which changes the coast of Southern California. He said people can debate about way [the U.S. Air Force] is thinking about operations [in numbers and timelines, but the U.S. Air Force is seeing an Alaska]. He opined that for the most part people agree now that increase in human activity it believes is based upon the climate change exists, but there is still debate about the combination of "better access and undiscovered wealth in the causes of it. He indicated the focus of the U.S. Air Force is Arctic." He predicted that increase in human activity would the need to operate in the Arctic as easily as it can off the continue. He said, "And certainly the nation, across the coast of Southern California. He said people can debate about Bering, recognizes that, and there's a significant amount of numbers and timelines, but the U.S. Air Force is seeing an buildup both economic and military buildup going along the increase in human activity it believes is based upon the Russian Arctic Coast." He added, "And they very much have combination of "better access and undiscovered wealth in the freedom of action on the Northern Sea route and are going to be Arctic." He predicted that increase in human activity would able to continue to support that, not only with their economy, continue. He said, "And certainly the nation, across the but with their military." He said ultimately Arctic Bering, recognizes that, and there's a significant amount of understanding is a global issue; it is not just about Alaskan buildup both economic and military buildup going along the command or Northern Command, but it also includes European Russian Arctic Coast." He added, "And they very much have Command, Pacific Command, and Strategic Command. He said, freedom of action on the Northern Sea route and are going to be "We're on a bit of quest to ensure that the rest of the globe able to continue to support that, not only with their economy, starts to look at our world like this." but with their military." He said ultimately Arctic

understanding is a global issue; it is not just about Alaskan 1:15:14 PM command or Northern Command, but it also includes European

Command, Pacific Command, and Strategic Command. He said, LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 5, titled "We're on a bit of quest to ensure that the rest of the globe "Our Evolving Environment." He referred to the bullet points, starts to look at our world like this." which read: Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and ISIL [Islamic

States of Iraq and the Levant]. He said "100 years ago" the 1:15:14 PM U.S. Military was focused on [Russia], whereas in the last 20

years, the military has been focused on "support to counter- LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 5, titled insurgency, counter-terrorism, [and] operations in the Middle "Our Evolving Environment." He referred to the bullet points, East, at great expense to the other priorities." During this which read: Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and ISIL [Islamic time, he indicated the rest of the world has been studying "the States of Iraq and the Levant]. He said "100 years ago" the American way of war," and "the list of challenges" has grown. U.S. Military was focused on [Russia], whereas in the last 20 He continued as follows: years, the military has been focused on "support to counter-

insurgency, counter-terrorism, [and] operations in the Middle A combination of strategy, doctrine, demonstrative East, at great expense to the other priorities." During this provocative actions in Europe and an increase in time, he indicated the rest of the world has been studying "the capabilities supported by significant fiscal American way of war," and "the list of challenges" has grown. investment make Russia a different place from a He continued as follows: military perspective, and one that we have to pay

attention to, not just from a let's-stay-out-of-a- A combination of strategy, doctrine, demonstrative nuclear-war perspective but [in terms of] provocative actions in Europe and an increase in "comprehensive deterrence across the continuum." capabilities supported by significant fiscal

investment make Russia a different place from a LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said China is literally building military perspective, and one that we have to pay islands in the South China Sea, and between the South China Sea attention to, not just from a let's-stay-out-of-a- and East China Sea sovereignty debates, he said, "We see an nuclear-war perspective but [in terms of] opportunity for potential friction there - between not just us "comprehensive deterrence across the continuum." and China but our closest allies and partners." He stated that

anyone who thinks the next two countries on the list [North LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said China is literally building Korea and Iran] would not leverage conflict "in any of those islands in the South China Sea, and between the South China Sea areas, with their capabilities, to achieve their objectives" and East China Sea sovereignty debates, he said, "We see an would be naïve. He said organizations, such as ISIL, are not opportunity for potential friction there - between not just us going away. He characterized such organizations at "evil," and and China but our closest allies and partners." He stated that he said [ISIL] has recently demonstrated a global power anyone who thinks the next two countries on the list [North projection capability outside its region. He warned that [the Korea and Iran] would not leverage conflict "in any of those U.S.] cannot turn its back on [ISIL] in the interest of the areas, with their capabilities, to achieve their objectives" country and its closest allies and partners. He indicated that would be naïve. He said organizations, such as ISIL, are not although the list [of countries shown on slide 5] has grown, the going away. He characterized such organizations at "evil," and U.S. Military force has not grown; therefore, he stressed the he said [ISIL] has recently demonstrated a global power importance of doing "things a little bit better" and think of projection capability outside its region. He warned that [the things in a "different fashion." U.S.] cannot turn its back on [ISIL] in the interest of the

country and its closest allies and partners. He indicated that LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY addressed information on slide 6, although the list [of countries shown on slide 5] has grown, the titled "Military Spending." He said many of the aforementioned U.S. Military force has not grown; therefore, he stressed the nations have been supporting their military operations with a importance of doing "things a little bit better" and think of significant investment and, after studying "the American way of things in a "different fashion." war," are developing, implementing, and fielding weapons systems

specifically to counter [U.S. weapons]. For example, he said LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY addressed information on slide 6, the countries are developing long-range ballistic and cruise titled "Military Spending." He said many of the aforementioned missiles "across not just the nuclear end but the continuum of nations have been supporting their military operations with a conventional capability, as well." He said this is something significant investment and, after studying "the American way of that [the U.S. Military as a whole] is studying closely. He war," are developing, implementing, and fielding weapons systems said many of these nations lack transparency; therefore, it is specifically to counter [U.S. weapons]. For example, he said difficult to determine the capacity of their weaponry. He said the countries are developing long-range ballistic and cruise [the U.S. Air Force] thinks the North Korean investment may be missiles "across not just the nuclear end but the continuum of "upwards of 25 percent." He said there is major evolution conventional capability, as well." He said this is something across the globe to which [the U.S. Military] must pay that [the U.S. Military as a whole] is studying closely. He attention. said many of these nations lack transparency; therefore, it is

difficult to determine the capacity of their weaponry. He said 1:18:13 PM [the U.S. Air Force] thinks the North Korean investment may be

"upwards of 25 percent." He said there is major evolution LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 7, titled across the globe to which [the U.S. Military] must pay "DoD Budget," which he said is between $500- and $600-billion. attention. He said there is a significant difference between the U.S. and

other countries in terms of the way it spends money, the 1:18:13 PM challenges it faces, and the transparency it provides to its

citizens. He stated there are a number of expenditures that are LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 7, titled "must pays" and there is a growing personnel and entitlement "DoD Budget," which he said is between $500- and $600-billion. budget. He mentioned initiatives coming out of the Office of He said there is a significant difference between the U.S. and the Secretary of Defense regarding reform of retirement and other countries in terms of the way it spends money, the transformation of medical care. He said, "That line is on an challenges it faces, and the transparency it provides to its upward vector, and if we don't do anything to arrest it, it will citizens. He stated there are a number of expenditures that are consume the DoD budget." Also including the must-pay category "must pays" and there is a growing personnel and entitlement is managing infrastructure, some of which he said is excess, for budget. He mentioned initiatives coming out of the Office of example, more bases and legacy weapons than necessary. He said the Secretary of Defense regarding reform of retirement and in order to make room "to have that modernization trade space" transformation of medical care. He said, "That line is on an will require action. He emphasized the importance of upward vector, and if we don't do anything to arrest it, it will modernization, and in approximately two months, the average age consume the DoD budget." Also including the must-pay category of U.S. Air Force combat aircraft - a fighter or bomber - will is managing infrastructure, some of which he said is excess, for exceed 27 years. He stated [the combat aircraft] operates off example, more bases and legacy weapons than necessary. He said of technology like the iPhone, and he asked the committee to in order to make room "to have that modernization trade space" imagine how effective a 27-year-old iPhone would be. He said will require action. He emphasized the importance of some of the aircraft used by the U.S. Air Force requiring modernization, and in approximately two months, the average age modernization include the F-35, the long-range strike bomber, of U.S. Air Force combat aircraft - a fighter or bomber - will and the KC-46 tanker. He stated that sandwiched into the middle exceed 27 years. He stated [the combat aircraft] operates off of must-pays and modernization are operations and maintenance, of technology like the iPhone, and he asked the committee to which include: readiness, investments in the Joint Pacific imagine how effective a 27-year-old iPhone would be. He said Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) training, flying hours and parts some of the aircraft used by the U.S. Air Force requiring and logistics, and other day-to-day business expenses. He modernization include the F-35, the long-range strike bomber, mentioned the effort for fiscal year 2016 (FY16), and he spoke and the KC-46 tanker. He stated that sandwiched into the middle of the Presidential budget is rolling out for FY17 today, and on of must-pays and modernization are operations and maintenance, its way to Capitol Hill this week. He predicted it would which include: readiness, investments in the Joint Pacific contain achieving a balance between operations and maintenance Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) training, flying hours and parts and [modernization]. He said Secretary Carter is keen on and logistics, and other day-to-day business expenses. He knowing that some of these challenges require "game changes" and mentioned the effort for fiscal year 2016 (FY16), and he spoke "we're investing [a] significant amount of ... resources in ... of the Presidential budget is rolling out for FY17 today, and on that sort of acquisition and technology research." its way to Capitol Hill this week. He predicted it would

contain achieving a balance between operations and maintenance 1:20:56 PM and [modernization]. He said Secretary Carter is keen on

knowing that some of these challenges require "game changes" and SENATOR BISHOP asked whether any new C-130J Super Hercules "we're investing [a] significant amount of ... resources in ... models would be coming to Alaska. that sort of acquisition and technology research."

LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he does not envision that 1:20:56 PM happening "anywhere in these two budget years" and he has not

heard any serious discussion about "more of them coming to SENATOR BISHOP asked whether any new C-130J Super Hercules Alaska." models would be coming to Alaska.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY drew attention to a chart on slide 8, LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he does not envision that titled "Headquarters Organization." He stated that he "served happening "anywhere in these two budget years" and he has not two primary masters." He pointed to the left side of the chart, heard any serious discussion about "more of them coming to [which lists USPACOM], and indicated that under that entity he Alaska." works for General Lori J. Robinson in Pacific Air Forces in

Hawaii as the management headquarters for the airmen in the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY drew attention to a chart on slide 8, primary organizations in Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska. In this titled "Headquarters Organization." He stated that he "served capacity he takes care of the "organize, train, equip" functions two primary masters." He pointed to the left side of the chart, to provide ready forces across the globe. He noted that F-22 [which lists USPACOM], and indicated that under that entity he Raptor fighter jets from Hawaii are currently in the Middle East works for General Lori J. Robinson in Pacific Air Forces in leading the way in the fight against ISIL in Iraq and Syria, and Hawaii as the management headquarters for the airmen in the F-22s from Alaska will relieve them this spring. primary organizations in Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska. In this

capacity he takes care of the "organize, train, equip" functions LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY next drew attention to the right side to provide ready forces across the globe. He noted that F-22 of the chart on slide 8, [which lists NORAD and USNORTHCOM], and Raptor fighter jets from Hawaii are currently in the Middle East he said he serves under Navy Admiral Bill Gortney who is the leading the way in the fight against ISIL in Iraq and Syria, and commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, and take care of F-22s from Alaska will relieve them this spring. homeland defense, support to civil authorities, mission

assurance, and Arctic advocacy across the Alaskan area of LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY next drew attention to the right side responsibility (AOR). He continued as follows: of the chart on slide 8, [which lists NORAD and USNORTHCOM], and

he said he serves under Navy Admiral Bill Gortney who is the This organization is formalized. We lost about 19 commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, and take care of percent of our headquarters manpower; that was homeland defense, support to civil authorities, mission completely consistent with ... an across-the-board DoD assurance, and Arctic advocacy across the Alaskan area of cut of 20 percent - really, really small numbers - responsibility (AOR). He continued as follows: didn't impact our ability to command and control at

all. The synchronization and merger actually helped This organization is formalized. We lost about 19 us, and we are very much taking the walls down between percent of our headquarters manpower; that was this Alaska NORAD region and Alaskan Command completely consistent with ... an across-the-board DoD Organization and working ... really like we're one cut of 20 percent - really, really small numbers - synchronized headquarters. didn't impact our ability to command and control at

all. The synchronization and merger actually helped

us, and we are very much taking the walls down between LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY acknowledged that [the U.S. Air Force] this Alaska NORAD region and Alaskan Command does not do anything alone; it works with its "primary mission Organization and working ... really like we're one partners," whom he indicated were in the room waiting their turn synchronized headquarters. to speak.

1:23:23 PM LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY acknowledged that [the U.S. Air Force]

does not do anything alone; it works with its "primary mission LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 9, titled partners," whom he indicated were in the room waiting their turn "ALCOM Year in Review," which shows what Alaska Command to speak. headquarters has been doing. He indicated that the purple boxes

indicate that that the U.S. Air Force has been receiving a lot 1:23:23 PM of attention, including from senior United States Department of

Defense officials, individuals encouraged by Alaska's U.S. LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 9, titled congressional delegates to visit, and media. He indicated that "ALCOM Year in Review," which shows what Alaska Command much of that attention centered around President Barack Obama's headquarters has been doing. He indicated that the purple boxes visit to Alaska. indicate that that the U.S. Air Force has been receiving a lot

of attention, including from senior United States Department of 1:24:37 PM Defense officials, individuals encouraged by Alaska's U.S.

congressional delegates to visit, and media. He indicated that REPRESENTATIVE SADDLER noted there had just been a change in much of that attention centered around President Barack Obama's Canadian government where liberals took over and the country was visit to Alaska. pulling back its CF-18s. He asked, "Has there been any change

in the candidate's posture of support for the NORAD Command 1:24:37 PM structure?"

REPRESENTATIVE SADDLER noted there had just been a change in LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY answered there had been no change, Canadian government where liberals took over and the country was other than perhaps "a strengthening of that". He mentioned the pulling back its CF-18s. He asked, "Has there been any change prime minister [of Canada] and stated, "Although those in the candidate's posture of support for the NORAD Command statements weren't necessarily synchronized, I think you could structure?" make the relation that he is thinking seriously about homeland

defense and making sure that he's got the right kind of LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY answered there had been no change, investments at home." He said "we are constantly working" at other than perhaps "a strengthening of that". He mentioned the evolving our plans and doing things better. He said Navy prime minister [of Canada] and stated, "Although those Admiral Gortney has held many conversations with evolving statements weren't necessarily synchronized, I think you could NORAD's relationship with NORTHCOM and the way [the military] make the relation that he is thinking seriously about homeland defends the U.S. He concluded, "We have total support from the defense and making sure that he's got the right kind of Canadian government." He indicated there is more integration investments at home." He said "we are constantly working" at [between the U.S. and Canadian government defense] in training evolving our plans and doing things better. He said Navy exercises and intercept operations. Admiral Gortney has held many conversations with evolving

NORAD's relationship with NORTHCOM and the way [the military] 1:25:45 PM defends the U.S. He concluded, "We have total support from the

Canadian government." He indicated there is more integration LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY moved on to slide 10, "DoD Arctic [between the U.S. and Canadian government defense] in training Capability Advocacy." He said that from an Arctic advocacy exercises and intercept operations. perspective, there has been a lot of activity at NORTHCOM

headquarters and in Alaska. He said "we are NORTHCOM's 1:25:45 PM operational Arctic experts," who truly understand what it is

like to operate in the Arctic on a day-to-day basis. He LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY moved on to slide 10, "DoD Arctic indicated that "we help NORAD become established as the DoD Capability Advocacy." He said that from an Arctic advocacy advocate for the Arctic." He relayed that this year NORTHCOM perspective, there has been a lot of activity at NORTHCOM established the Arctic Capability Advocacy Working Group, which headquarters and in Alaska. He said "we are NORTHCOM's is a group of like-minded governmental and community agencies operational Arctic experts," who truly understand what it is both living and operating in the Arctic and addressing potential like to operate in the Arctic on a day-to-day basis. He contingencies. He added, "And we're working very carefully with indicated that "we help NORAD become established as the DoD them on that." advocate for the Arctic." He relayed that this year NORTHCOM

established the Arctic Capability Advocacy Working Group, which LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said the two main themes for NORTHCOM is a group of like-minded governmental and community agencies in considering capability gaps are: how "we use existing both living and operating in the Arctic and addressing potential capabilities," because it takes a long time to develop contingencies. He added, "And we're working very carefully with requirements and fund things; and what needs to be done in that them on that." regard for the long term. Regarding the latter, he explained

that it is first necessary to agree upon what the Arctic will LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said the two main themes for NORTHCOM look like in 20, 30, 50 years, and there is not total agreement in considering capability gaps are: how "we use existing on that. He said NORTHCOM is working hard to determine "what capabilities," because it takes a long time to develop that means to DoD." requirements and fund things; and what needs to be done in that

regard for the long term. Regarding the latter, he explained 1:27:15 PM that it is first necessary to agree upon what the Arctic will

look like in 20, 30, 50 years, and there is not total agreement LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY named the "four main areas we examine" on that. He said NORTHCOM is working hard to determine "what from a capability perspective: communications, which are that means to DoD." limited in the Arctic; domain awareness, primarily air and

maritime domain, which requires having the necessary systems and 1:27:15 PM common operating pictures to maintain awareness; infrastructure,

which is expensive and time intensive to build in the Arctic, LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY named the "four main areas we examine" thus requires an effort to understand what infrastructure is from a capability perspective: communications, which are necessary in order for the military to be able to respond to limited in the Arctic; domain awareness, primarily air and contingencies; and then finally, presence, how often do they maritime domain, which requires having the necessary systems and want to operate in the Arctic and in what kind of environments, common operating pictures to maintain awareness; infrastructure, and what kind of training. He said there is a lot of local which is expensive and time intensive to build in the Arctic, effort on that and mentioned that now there is a little more thus requires an effort to understand what infrastructure is time to invest in soldiers "increasingly coming home from Iraq necessary in order for the military to be able to respond to and Afghanistan." He talked about working with the U.S. Navy, contingencies; and then finally, presence, how often do they which has Ice Exercise (ICEX) and repeat with its submarine lab want to operate in the Arctic and in what kind of environments, again this year. He said, "This year we've been partnered with and what kind of training. He said there is a lot of local them from the very beginning planning stages to ... make that a effort on that and mentioned that now there is a little more joint exercise." time to invest in soldiers "increasingly coming home from Iraq

and Afghanistan." He talked about working with the U.S. Navy, LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reminded the committee that last year which has Ice Exercise (ICEX) and repeat with its submarine lab "we did a replication of the Good Friday Earthquake" as a again this year. He said, "This year we've been partnered with biennial capstone exercise and the whole nation focused on them from the very beginning planning stages to ... make that a Alaska and earthquake scenarios. He relayed that this year "the joint exercise." Arctic edge scenario" is focused on a Cascadia earthquake

scenario, but with impact that includes Alaska. He said there LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reminded the committee that last year would be other exercises planned in order to take advantage of "we did a replication of the Good Friday Earthquake" as a all the attendees. He mentioned there is an Arctic Council biennial capstone exercise and the whole nation focused on indoors search and rescue exercise. He explained that even Alaska and earthquake scenarios. He relayed that this year "the though the Arctic Council is a diplomatic agency rather than a Arctic edge scenario" is focused on a Cascadia earthquake military one, "we understand that we need to be in support of scenario, but with impact that includes Alaska. He said there those things, and we are full participants in that, and that's a would be other exercises planned in order to take advantage of multi-national, Arctic-based disaster that we need to help all the attendees. He mentioned there is an Arctic Council respond to in a search and rescue environment" this coming year. indoors search and rescue exercise. He explained that even

though the Arctic Council is a diplomatic agency rather than a 1:29:35 PM military one, "we understand that we need to be in support of

those things, and we are full participants in that, and that's a LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY brought attention to slide 11, titled multi-national, Arctic-based disaster that we need to help "OP Colony Glacier," and provided an update on the remains respond to in a search and rescue environment" this coming year. recovery operation pertaining to a 1952 crash of a C-124

Globemaster II on Mt. Gannet. Sixty years later the remains of 1:29:35 PM the aircraft and passengers on board are beginning to merge

[because the glacier is receding]. He said each year since the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY brought attention to slide 11, titled initial discovery [in 2012], the U.S. Air Force has conducted an "OP Colony Glacier," and provided an update on the remains annual operation spanning three to five weeks, during a small recovery operation pertaining to a 1952 crash of a C-124 window where the snow has melted down, but before conditions Globemaster II on Mt. Gannet. Sixty years later the remains of become unstable later in the summer. He said ALCOM is the the aircraft and passengers on board are beginning to merge headquarters that "keeps our arms around everything that's going [because the glacier is receding]. He said each year since the on" and assists with that operation. He relayed that this year, initial discovery [in 2012], the U.S. Air Force has conducted an the job will be transitioned from the Defense Accounting Agency annual operation spanning three to five weeks, during a small (DAA), which focuses more on overseas loss, such as POWs and window where the snow has melted down, but before conditions MIAs, to the U.S. Air Force Mortuary Affairs because this is the become unstable later in the summer. He said ALCOM is the latter's core mission. He reported that the remains of 17 headquarters that "keeps our arms around everything that's going passengers of the 52 passengers that were on board have been on" and assists with that operation. He relayed that this year, repatriated. Last year more remains were recovered and the the job will be transitioned from the Defense Accounting Agency glacier reveals more each year. He said DNA tests are used to (DAA), which focuses more on overseas loss, such as POWs and determine whether new remains found belong to another body or MIAs, to the U.S. Air Force Mortuary Affairs because this is the belong to a deceased person already identified. latter's core mission. He reported that the remains of 17

passengers of the 52 passengers that were on board have been 1:31:23 PM repatriated. Last year more remains were recovered and the

glacier reveals more each year. He said DNA tests are used to LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 12, titled determine whether new remains found belong to another body or "GLACIER Summit & POTUS Visit." As shown on slide 12, GLACIER belong to a deceased person already identified. is an acronym that spells out Global Leadership in the Arctic

Cooperation, Innovation, Engagement & Resilience. He said there 1:31:23 PM were many ministerial level events in which the DoD was not

directly involved. Notwithstanding that, he said, "We were LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 12, titled involved in ... shadowing things that have an interest to DoD, "GLACIER Summit & POTUS Visit." As shown on slide 12, GLACIER such as the strengthening emergency response ministerial is an acronym that spells out Global Leadership in the Arctic session." He said the [Alaska] National Guard, DoD, and the Cooperation, Innovation, Engagement & Resilience. He said there [Alaska] Coast Guard "will take a very big role in helping with were many ministerial level events in which the DoD was not that." He described the military's involvement in ensuring a directly involved. Notwithstanding that, he said, "We were successful visit from President Obama. involved in ... shadowing things that have an interest to DoD,

such as the strengthening emergency response ministerial 1:32:47 PM session." He said the [Alaska] National Guard, DoD, and the

[Alaska] Coast Guard "will take a very big role in helping with CO-CHAIR COGHILL, in referring to President Obama's visit, that." He described the military's involvement in ensuring a surmised that the U.S. Air Force had probably tested Alaska's successful visit from President Obama. communication links, and asked Lieutenant General Handy whether

improvements needed to be made. 1:32:47 PM

LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY responded he was very satisfied with CO-CHAIR COGHILL, in referring to President Obama's visit, the results. He said there are a number of ways of "forward surmised that the U.S. Air Force had probably tested Alaska's deploying expeditionary communications." He described it as a communication links, and asked Lieutenant General Handy whether three-tier operation, and offered further details. improvements needed to be made.

1:34:33 PM LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY responded he was very satisfied with

the results. He said there are a number of ways of "forward LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slides 13-14, deploying expeditionary communications." He described it as a titled "Ballistic Missile Defense." He said Alaska is always three-tier operation, and offered further details. "the center of gravity for ballistic missile defense in North

America." He said other countries are acquiring greater numbers 1:34:33 PM of ballistic missiles with greater capabilities and ranges, and

it is a burden for the Missile Defense Agency and United States LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slides 13-14, Department of Defense "to ensure the system keeps up." As shown titled "Ballistic Missile Defense." He said Alaska is always on slide 14, he said MDA has a sizeable budget and is making "the center of gravity for ballistic missile defense in North strides in meeting the Secretary of Defense's mandate of 44 America." He said other countries are acquiring greater numbers ground-based interceptors within the inventory by 2017, as well of ballistic missiles with greater capabilities and ranges, and as increasing the performance and reliability of the it is a burden for the Missile Defense Agency and United States interceptors that are on the ground. He said the Missile Field Department of Defense "to ensure the system keeps up." As shown 1 refurbishment he said he mentioned last year would be complete on slide 14, he said MDA has a sizeable budget and is making in the fourth quarter of FY 16, which will provide ["14 strides in meeting the Secretary of Defense's mandate of 44 operationally configured silos"]. ground-based interceptors within the inventory by 2017, as well

as increasing the performance and reliability of the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY mentioned there are two ongoing radar interceptors that are on the ground. He said the Missile Field projects. He said the Clear Air Force Station (AFS) early 1 refurbishment he said he mentioned last year would be complete warning radar upgrade and connection to the ballistic missile in the fourth quarter of FY 16, which will provide ["14 defense system is on track, and he offered his understanding operationally configured silos"]. that it should be completed by the end of [2016]. He related

that "the department" and Missile Defense Agency and NORTHCOM LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY mentioned there are two ongoing radar agreed that Clear would be the preferred location for the long- projects. He said the Clear Air Force Station (AFS) early range discriminating radar, which also increases the performance warning radar upgrade and connection to the ballistic missile of the system and the ability to discriminate different pieces defense system is on track, and he offered his understanding and parts. For example, what is a threat and what is a piece of that it should be completed by the end of [2016]. He related the missile body. He said an environmental impact analysis is that "the department" and Missile Defense Agency and NORTHCOM ongoing for the [long-range discrimination radar] (LRDR), "but agreed that Clear would be the preferred location for the long- so far, again, looking to be included in the budget for '17, at range discriminating radar, which also increases the performance least some of the military construction for Clear." He reported of the system and the ability to discriminate different pieces that the commercial power tie-in was successfully completed; a and parts. For example, what is a threat and what is a piece of -year-old power plant was shut down, and there have been no the missile body. He said an environmental impact analysis is issues with capacity or liability in terms of that power. ongoing for the [long-range discrimination radar] (LRDR), "but

so far, again, looking to be included in the budget for '17, at 1:37:21 PM least some of the military construction for Clear." He reported

that the commercial power tie-in was successfully completed; a LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 15, titled -year-old power plant was shut down, and there have been no "2015 NORTHERN EDGE." He said Alaska continues to represent a issues with capacity or liability in terms of that power. critical training venue for the U.S. Joint Team and allies and

partners "across the continuum of operations," everything from 1:37:21 PM very small training scenarios to capstone events such as

Northern Edge. Northern Edge is a biennial event and during the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 15, titled last event there were over 7,099 participants, including U.S. "2015 NORTHERN EDGE." He said Alaska continues to represent a Navy ships [in the Gulf of Alaska], and training included large critical training venue for the U.S. Joint Team and allies and force exercise, joint live fires, search and rescue, with many partners "across the continuum of operations," everything from high end capabilities. Alaska, he said, is a unique environment very small training scenarios to capstone events such as with the ability to train and test where no one is watching or Northern Edge. Northern Edge is a biennial event and during the listening to the exercises, and it brought approximately $13 last event there were over 7,099 participants, including U.S. million to the economy of Alaska. Navy ships [in the Gulf of Alaska], and training included large

force exercise, joint live fires, search and rescue, with many LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 16, titled high end capabilities. Alaska, he said, is a unique environment "2015 RED FLAG Exercises." He said Red Flag continues to be a with the ability to train and test where no one is watching or success. He said, "We got ... the U.S. Air Force to commit to listening to the exercises, and it brought approximately $13 three of these in Alaska per year, in addition to the ... Red million to the economy of Alaska. Flags that we do down in Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada." He

said three Red Flag exercises had taken place in 2015, in LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 16, titled April/May, August, and October. During "Red Flag 15-3," six "2015 RED FLAG Exercises." He said Red Flag continues to be a nations participated in the exercise; 15 nations sent senior success. He said, "We got ... the U.S. Air Force to commit to general flag officer representatives to participate in an three of these in Alaska per year, in addition to the ... Red Executive Observer Program that Lieutenant General Handy said he Flags that we do down in Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada." He hosted at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage said three Red Flag exercises had taken place in 2015, in and in Interior Alaska. He said some nations had participated April/May, August, and October. During "Red Flag 15-3," six before, while others had never done so; each year that the event nations participated in the exercise; 15 nations sent senior is held brings in a few more nations to participate. general flag officer representatives to participate in an

Executive Observer Program that Lieutenant General Handy said he 1:39:34 PM hosted at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage

and in Interior Alaska. He said some nations had participated LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 17, titled before, while others had never done so; each year that the event "2015 VIGILANT SHIELD," and advised it is an annual capstone is held brings in a few more nations to participate. homeland offense command post exercise, which took place in

November 2015 hosted by NORAD and NORTHCOM. The exercise 1:39:34 PM focuses not only on offense mechanisms, but also in teaching how

to respond to a bad thing happening to the U.S. by practicing LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 17, titled consequence management, support to civil authorities, et cetera. "2015 VIGILANT SHIELD," and advised it is an annual capstone He noted that three field training exercises (FTX) are homeland offense command post exercise, which took place in necessary, although unusual for Vigilant Shield. He talked November 2015 hosted by NORAD and NORTHCOM. The exercise about live exercises. One was a "render safe operation," in focuses not only on offense mechanisms, but also in teaching how which a dangerous device was found in the Port of Anchorage and to respond to a bad thing happening to the U.S. by practicing all the commanding control and operations were utilized for the consequence management, support to civil authorities, et cetera. situation, which required high-level U.S. Government approval. He noted that three field training exercises (FTX) are He said this was a successful event. Another exercise was necessary, although unusual for Vigilant Shield. He talked taking a C-17 with a force Stryker to Deadhorse, Alaska, and about live exercises. One was a "render safe operation," in conducting an Arctic operation with the U.S. Army Alaska to which a dangerous device was found in the Port of Anchorage and conduct base patrol operations. He said an infantry unit was all the commanding control and operations were utilized for the self-deployed "from Brian's organization to Fort Greely" to do situation, which required high-level U.S. Government approval. security operations. He said this was a successful event. Another exercise was

taking a C-17 with a force Stryker to Deadhorse, Alaska, and 1:41:06 PM conducting an Arctic operation with the U.S. Army Alaska to

conduct base patrol operations. He said an infantry unit was LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 18, titled self-deployed "from Brian's organization to Fort Greely" to do "Major 2016 Exercises." He said there are literally hundreds of security operations. other events and exercises that were conducted in and around

Alaska, but slide 18 shows the biggest ones: ICEX 16, in 1:41:06 PM February through March; four Red Flags are on the books; another

Vigilant Shield in October; and Arctic Edge 16 that have three LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 18, titled associated exercises. The first exercise is Alaska Shield, "Major 2016 Exercises." He said there are literally hundreds of which he said is focused on response to acts of terrorism and other events and exercises that were conducted in and around response to a "cyber event." The second exercise is Ardent Alaska, but slide 18 shows the biggest ones: ICEX 16, in Sentry, which he described as a NORTHCOM sponsored exercise February through March; four Red Flags are on the books; another linked with the aforementioned Cascadian earthquake scenario. Vigilant Shield in October; and Arctic Edge 16 that have three The third exercise is Arctic Chinook, which is an Arctic Council associated exercises. The first exercise is Alaska Shield, search and rescue exercise. which he said is focused on response to acts of terrorism and

response to a "cyber event." The second exercise is Ardent 1:42:10 PM Sentry, which he described as a NORTHCOM sponsored exercise

linked with the aforementioned Cascadian earthquake scenario. LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 19, "11th The third exercise is Arctic Chinook, which is an Arctic Council Air Force" and said he will shift gears to discuss the units search and rescue exercise. within the 11th Air Force, his responsibility, and some of the

things the airmen have been doing for their country in Alaska 1:42:10 PM over the past years. As the committee members are aware, the

Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Regional Support Center executes LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 19, "11th operations and maintenance contracts for a number of facilities Air Force" and said he will shift gears to discuss the units in Alaska and throughout the Indo-Asia Pacific. He related that within the 11th Air Force, his responsibility, and some of the if they have a base or facility they do not know what to do things the airmen have been doing for their country in Alaska with, they give it to Colonel Frank Flores and he determines how over the past years. As the committee members are aware, the to make it work. The Alaskan Command executes the two largest Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Regional Support Center executes contracts in Pacific Air Force taking care of the 15 long range operations and maintenance contracts for a number of facilities radars that encircle Alaska and assist with indications of in Alaska and throughout the Indo-Asia Pacific. He related that warnings. They have a large installation support contract that if they have a base or facility they do not know what to do takes care of their operation at King Salmon, at Eareckson Air with, they give it to Colonel Frank Flores and he determines how Station located on the island of Shemya, Alaska and also Wake to make it work. The Alaskan Command executes the two largest Island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Of note, he contracts in Pacific Air Force taking care of the 15 long range commented, those contracts were completely transformed over the radars that encircle Alaska and assist with indications of last 18 months. The first contract is with ARCTEC Alaska warnings. They have a large installation support contract that managing the Alaska radar system and is a $474 million savings takes care of their operation at King Salmon, at Eareckson Air based on consolidation and changes to the way it is managed. Station located on the island of Shemya, Alaska and also Wake Chugach runs the ISS support contract with a contract value at Island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Of note, he $184 million for a seven year period of time. A modernization commented, those contracts were completely transformed over the was recently completed of the 15 Long Range Radar, the picture last 18 months. The first contract is with ARCTEC Alaska in the upper left corner is of one of their radars. The managing the Alaska radar system and is a $474 million savings facility looked exactly like that in 1955 from the outside, but based on consolidation and changes to the way it is managed. the inside is a modern facility that was previously run by 100 Chugach runs the ISS support contract with a contract value at airmen, full squadron for each of those radars. Currently, $184 million for a seven year period of time. A modernization there are four contractors supporting the entire system to keep was recently completed of the 15 Long Range Radar, the picture it operating at the same level of readiness, and that has in the upper left corner is of one of their radars. The happened through a number of upgrades. The Essential Parts facility looked exactly like that in 1955 from the outside, but Replacement Program was completed last year, $126 million the inside is a modern facility that was previously run by 100 contract. Notably, he explained, over the 10 year period of airmen, full squadron for each of those radars. Currently, that contract, $170 million was saved by consolidating many of there are four contractors supporting the entire system to keep the support activities and bringing some of that back to support it operating at the same level of readiness, and that has in Anchorage. happened through a number of upgrades. The Essential Parts

Replacement Program was completed last year, $126 million 1:44:33 PM contract. Notably, he explained, over the 10 year period of

that contract, $170 million was saved by consolidating many of LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 20, titled the support activities and bringing some of that back to support "JBER - 673d Air Base Wing" and referred to their ongoing in Anchorage. environmental restoration projects in Alaska that "kinda go on

under the radar, if you will," and 58 environmental projects 1:44:33 PM will be complete in 2016. He explained the projects are

anywhere from a village experiencing erosion on their coastline LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 20, titled to some new discovery. Typically what happens, he said, a "JBER - 673d Air Base Wing" and referred to their ongoing previous military base site was completely cleaned up - there environmental restoration projects in Alaska that "kinda go on were thousands throughout the cold war in Alaska, and through a under the radar, if you will," and 58 environmental projects change in the environment, vegetation starts to grow back and will be complete in 2016. He explained the projects are environmental issues are rediscovered. At that time, the anywhere from a village experiencing erosion on their coastline service or agency that owned and controlled the facility is to some new discovery. Typically what happens, he said, a located and a brand new environmental project is conducted. previous military base site was completely cleaned up - there

were thousands throughout the cold war in Alaska, and through a 1:45:22 PM change in the environment, vegetation starts to grow back and

environmental issues are rediscovered. At that time, the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 21, titled service or agency that owned and controlled the facility is "JBER - 3rd Wing" and stated the 673d Air Base Wing continues to located and a brand new environmental project is conducted. lead the finest joint base in the Department of Defense due to

various reasons such as, sharing a common fence line, they have 1:45:22 PM very good synchronization of operational missions between what

the Army does on JBER and what the Air Force does. Frankly, he LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 21, titled advised, they had decided to go joint long before being told by "JBER - 3rd Wing" and stated the 673d Air Base Wing continues to the Department of Defense. During the early 2000s, they joined lead the finest joint base in the Department of Defense due to fire and rescue, took the gate down between the two various reasons such as, sharing a common fence line, they have installations, had a good start to joining, and are continuing very good synchronization of operational missions between what to improve upon that success. Colonel Brian Bruckbauer, during the Army does on JBER and what the Air Force does. Frankly, he the past year has taken the community relations program to advised, they had decided to go joint long before being told by another level in working with the Municipality of Anchorage. the Department of Defense. During the early 2000s, they joined They are engaged in a seven step process that brought Air Force fire and rescue, took the gate down between the two Headquarters into the loop based upon a new law making it easier installations, had a good start to joining, and are continuing for them to partner with the local community on projects, and to improve upon that success. Colonel Brian Bruckbauer, during things they could do to benefit the community, and vice versa. the past year has taken the community relations program to He noted that thirteen agreements were started last year and another level in working with the Municipality of Anchorage. they are looking forward to that continued great partnership. They are engaged in a seven step process that brought Air Force

Headquarters into the loop based upon a new law making it easier 1:46:37 PM for them to partner with the local community on projects, and

things they could do to benefit the community, and vice versa. LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY pointed to the [JBER Buckner Fitness He noted that thirteen agreements were started last year and Center], a $22 million project, and advised it was completed on they are looking forward to that continued great partnership. January 16, to allow airmen and soldiers living on base to use a

state-of-the-art fitness facility and maintain readiness. The 1:46:37 PM $53 million barracks will be completed in April 2016, and there

are 197 other ongoing projects. LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY pointed to the [JBER Buckner Fitness

Center], a $22 million project, and advised it was completed on LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reiterated that joint basing has been a January 16, to allow airmen and soldiers living on base to use a success in a number of ways such that in almost no other state-of-the-art fitness facility and maintain readiness. The installation would a load master live next door to a jump $53 million barracks will be completed in April 2016, and there master, and they are proud of the airmen and soldiers and how are 197 other ongoing projects. well they've worked together. Last year, the military men and

women from JBER supported the sockeye fire during a horrible LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reiterated that joint basing has been a fire season. The base played a big part in supporting Northern success in a number of ways such that in almost no other Edge, the President of the United States (POTUS) visit, and a installation would a load master live next door to a jump large success story with regard to its Fisher House last year. master, and they are proud of the airmen and soldiers and how Fisher House, he explained, is a place where military men, well they've worked together. Last year, the military men and women, and their families who need medical care can stay without women from JBER supported the sockeye fire during a horrible paying the high cost of a hotel room downtown, and Fisher House fire season. The base played a big part in supporting Northern has been full or overfull for a long time. Another success was Edge, the President of the United States (POTUS) visit, and a working with Army Medical Command wherein an annex was large success story with regard to its Fisher House last year. established by taking 13 underutilized rooms from the Warrior Fisher House, he explained, is a place where military men, Transition Unit, and turned them into Fisher House rooms. The women, and their families who need medical care can stay without president of the Fisher House Foundation committed to building a paying the high cost of a hotel room downtown, and Fisher House second house, he advised, and they look forward to that project has been full or overfull for a long time. Another success was in 2017. working with Army Medical Command wherein an annex was

established by taking 13 underutilized rooms from the Warrior 1:48:52 PM Transition Unit, and turned them into Fisher House rooms. The

president of the Fisher House Foundation committed to building a LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 22, titled second house, he advised, and they look forward to that project "Eielson AFB - 354 FW" and advised the 3d Wing Warriors continue in 2017. to represent the cutting edge of air dominance global mobility

and command and control. He pointed out they are all over the 1:48:52 PM world and it would be an entirely different briefing to advise

the committee of everything the 3d Wing and their airmen have LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 22, titled done over the past years. He noted there was fairly high "Eielson AFB - 354 FW" and advised the 3d Wing Warriors continue attention brought because "we were very involved in both the to represent the cutting edge of air dominance global mobility Ebola response and the Nepal earthquake from a mobility and and command and control. He pointed out they are all over the command and control perspective." The 3d Wing Warriors are world and it would be an entirely different briefing to advise involved all year long in exercises such as, Northern Edge and the committee of everything the 3d Wing and their airmen have Red Flag, and engaged across the community of all opportunities done over the past years. He noted there was fairly high listed at the bottom of the slide. He noted the word "Norcom" attention brought because "we were very involved in both the is not seen on many DoD slides because they do not receive a lot Ebola response and the Nepal earthquake from a mobility and of military construction money. President Barack Obama's budget command and control perspective." The 3d Wing Warriors are is coming out today and is expected to include the AWACS involved all year long in exercises such as, Northern Edge and facility because, he explained, the 962d Airborne Air Control Red Flag, and engaged across the community of all opportunities Squadron has a severely out-of-date building. An updated AWACS listed at the bottom of the slide. He noted the word "Norcom" facility will address the following problems: a modified is not seen on many DoD slides because they do not receive a lot aircraft is arriving soon; improving the E-3s requires an of military construction money. President Barack Obama's budget expansion in the facility; and the fact they have had no alert is coming out today and is expected to include the AWACS facility in that building since its existence even though these facility because, he explained, the 962d Airborne Air Control airmen sit alert. The airmen have to sit in a quarters where Squadron has a severely out-of-date building. An updated AWACS they are closer to their airplane and double up in there, and it facility will address the following problems: a modified still does not offer the necessary response time. aircraft is arriving soon; improving the E-3s requires an

expansion in the facility; and the fact they have had no alert 1:50:15 PM facility in that building since its existence even though these

airmen sit alert. The airmen have to sit in a quarters where LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 23, titled they are closer to their airplane and double up in there, and it "DoD Wide Initiative" and advised that the ice men of the 354th still does not offer the necessary response time. continue to pioneer an incredible training platform by running

their Red Flag series of exercises from [the far] north 1:50:15 PM supporting the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) and

its aggressor squadron. As discussed last year, he reiterated LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 23, titled they are the preferred alternative to the first overseas base "DoD Wide Initiative" and advised that the ice men of the 354th for F-35s, and the environment impact statement (EIS) is ongoing continue to pioneer an incredible training platform by running with no significant obstacles. The Record of Decision is their Red Flag series of exercises from [the far] north expected in April, 2016, at which point they can start saying F- supporting the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) and s are coming, as opposed to "it's the preferred alternative." its aggressor squadron. As discussed last year, he reiterated He advised that many lessons were learned from previous F-35 and they are the preferred alternative to the first overseas base F-22 bed down, and are capitalizing on those imperatives. The for F-35s, and the environment impact statement (EIS) is ongoing request for a slightly larger amount of money was granted to with no significant obstacles. The Record of Decision is build a few newer facilities that were better optimized. expected in April, 2016, at which point they can start saying F- Essentially, he related, an approximate $500 million Milcon s are coming, as opposed to "it's the preferred alternative." Construction and O&N Construction project is about to roll in up He advised that many lessons were learned from previous F-35 and there, assuming favorable approval of the EIS. F-22 bed down, and are capitalizing on those imperatives. The

request for a slightly larger amount of money was granted to 1:51:31 PM build a few newer facilities that were better optimized.

Essentially, he related, an approximate $500 million Milcon LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY remarked that modernization of the 64 Construction and O&N Construction project is about to roll in up year old treasure, called the "Combined Heat and Power Plant" is there, assuming favorable approval of the EIS. ongoing and military construction money is continually put in to

replace the boilers, which explains the large hole in the plant 1:51:31 PM as that is the only way to get the old boiler out and the new

boiler in. He described them as the cleanest six burner boilers LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY remarked that modernization of the 64 in the state and it continues to be a national asset to keep year old treasure, called the "Combined Heat and Power Plant" is that base warm, and noted they beat EPA standards by 100 percent ongoing and military construction money is continually put in to when boiler six was finished. Boiler five is currently being replace the boilers, which explains the large hole in the plant replaced, and boiler four will be replaced in FY2017, he as that is the only way to get the old boiler out and the new explained. boiler in. He described them as the cleanest six burner boilers

in the state and it continues to be a national asset to keep 1:54:20 PM that base warm, and noted they beat EPA standards by 100 percent

when boiler six was finished. Boiler five is currently being CO-CHAIR COGHILL interjected that not long ago that was on replaced, and boiler four will be replaced in FY2017, he critical status. explained.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY agreed, and commented that it is a 1:54:20 PM large success story. In the event a particular amount of that

capacity is lost, the base will be evacuated because when CO-CHAIR COGHILL interjected that not long ago that was on buildings start freezing in Interior Alaska they freeze hard. critical status. The Air Force made a cost decision when it installed new housing

units in Alaska and put the utilities underground, many without LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY agreed, and commented that it is a utilidors. Quite frankly, he offered, the Air Force is paying large success story. In the event a particular amount of that for that now. Infrastructure damage is discovered every year capacity is lost, the base will be evacuated because when and there is an ongoing seven phase project to replace it with buildings start freezing in Interior Alaska they freeze hard. state-of-the-art utility infrastructure during Alaska's short The Air Force made a cost decision when it installed new housing construction season, he said. units in Alaska and put the utilities underground, many without

utilidors. Quite frankly, he offered, the Air Force is paying 1:53:46 PM for that now. Infrastructure damage is discovered every year

and there is an ongoing seven phase project to replace it with LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reminded the committee of the P-Frost state-of-the-art utility infrastructure during Alaska's short fluorocarbon contamination discovered within the aquifer in the construction season, he said. underground water system, possibly due to an old KC-135 crash

and the fire retardant used to put it out. The community of 1:53:46 PM Moose Creek is downstream from the crash site, where the

majority of the contamination was discovered, and it is believed LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY reminded the committee of the P-Frost contaminants sunk into the ground and into the water system. fluorocarbon contamination discovered within the aquifer in the There are no federal EPA standards on what level is too high for underground water system, possibly due to an old KC-135 crash P-frost, and it hasn't been classified. He advised that bottled and the fire retardant used to put it out. The community of water was immediately delivered to everyone and began putting Moose Creek is downstream from the crash site, where the filtration systems in the wells, which is going very well. He majority of the contamination was discovered, and it is believed advised there have been discussions of undertaking a North Pole contaminants sunk into the ground and into the water system. Municipal water connection to Moose Creek and the base, and the There are no federal EPA standards on what level is too high for cost comparisons are being prepared. P-frost, and it hasn't been classified. He advised that bottled

water was immediately delivered to everyone and began putting 1:54:55 PM filtration systems in the wells, which is going very well. He

advised there have been discussions of undertaking a North Pole LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY continued discussing successes in the Municipal water connection to Moose Creek and the base, and the 4th and noted they continue to operate the state-of-the-art cost comparisons are being prepared. Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) adversaries for

across the Pacific Air Forces. He advised his aggressors from 1:54:55 PM Eielson Air Force Base are on Okinawa Island at the Kadena Air

Base currently training with the 525th Fighter Squadron who was LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY continued discussing successes in the based at JBER, and operate Red Flag. 4th and noted they continue to operate the state-of-the-art

Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC) adversaries for 1:55:22 PM across the Pacific Air Forces. He advised his aggressors from

Eielson Air Force Base are on Okinawa Island at the Kadena Air LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 24, titled Base currently training with the 525th Fighter Squadron who was "Force and Family" and advised that Secretary of Defense Ashton based at JBER, and operate Red Flag. "Ash" Carter has been very aggressive at tackling "people

issues" which can be hard and challenging issues. The "Force 1:55:22 PM of the Future" is a large series of initiatives with much of it

contained within the "President's Budget (PB)" PB17 rolling out

today. He explained the categories include: taking care of the LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 24, titled people they have; and recognizing survey data and feedback "Force and Family" and advised that Secretary of Defense Ashton information received from the service men and women departing "Ash" Carter has been very aggressive at tackling "people the service. Service members have pointed out that they must issues" which can be hard and challenging issues. The "Force leave the service because they can't meet all of their duties as of the Future" is a large series of initiatives with much of it an airman or soldier and also take care of their families. contained within the "President's Budget (PB)" PB17 rolling out Therefore, he said, the initiatives include: increasing today. He explained the categories include: taking care of the maternity and paternity leave; giving folks the capability to people they have; and recognizing survey data and feedback leave the service for a period of time to pursue a civilian information received from the service men and women departing education, professional opportunities, or have a family, and the service. Service members have pointed out that they must without penalty return to the service; addressing transgender leave the service because they can't meet all of their duties as issues; defining gender dysphoria; and what is a disqualifying an airman or soldier and also take care of their families. event versus an event that should not disqualify someone from Therefore, he said, the initiatives include: increasing service. maternity and paternity leave; giving folks the capability to

leave the service for a period of time to pursue a civilian 1:56:55 PM education, professional opportunities, or have a family, and

without penalty return to the service; addressing transgender LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY turned to the issue of arming of issues; defining gender dysphoria; and what is a disqualifying service members and he advised that the policy is out there and event versus an event that should not disqualify someone from it does allow commanders to augment security forces if service. necessary. He related that the commanders are taking that very

slowly, and commented that certainly the commanders have the 1:56:55 PM capacity and legal authority to do such, but there are

challenging use of force issues. He explained their security LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY turned to the issue of arming of forces are police officers who go through intense training and service members and he advised that the policy is out there and certification to understand the mechanics of that, and they are it does allow commanders to augment security forces if moving carefully and slowly in that regard. necessary. He related that the commanders are taking that very

slowly, and commented that certainly the commanders have the 1:57:31 PM capacity and legal authority to do such, but there are

challenging use of force issues. He explained their security LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 25, titled forces are police officers who go through intense training and "Thank You for Your Support" and suggested the committee members certification to understand the mechanics of that, and they are visit bases and speak with the men and women in uniform and moving carefully and slowly in that regard. asking the members what is on their minds, such as, how are

things in the military, what's keeping them up at night, and 1:57:31 PM what can the committee address for them. He advised that the

service members are concerned about retirement, they want to be LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY directed attention to slide 25, titled certain their family is taken care of, they want to serve but "Thank You for Your Support" and suggested the committee members "these big strategic trades that we are having to make," how visit bases and speak with the men and women in uniform and much money will be spent on modernization versus medical and asking the members what is on their minds, such as, how are retirement benefits, and how will all of that fit together and things in the military, what's keeping them up at night, and still have an O&M budget to operate. Those questions are on the what can the committee address for them. He advised that the minds of military men and women across the board. There was an service members are concerned about retirement, they want to be issue with the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) with an certain their family is taken care of, they want to serve but unexpected and dramatic drop. They addressed the Department of "these big strategic trades that we are having to make," how Defense (DoD) on that and received an immediate re-evaluation much money will be spent on modernization versus medical and and re-survey that brought that COLA back up. Although, not to retirement benefits, and how will all of that fit together and the level it was, but in many areas it came up almost to that still have an O&M budget to operate. Those questions are on the level. The feedback on housing and the privatized housing minds of military men and women across the board. There was an projects revealed that folks are happy with the housing they are issue with the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) with an living in. He related they have a close partnership with the unexpected and dramatic drop. They addressed the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that the VA's trauma doesn't impact Defense (DoD) on that and received an immediate re-evaluation their men and women, and noted there have been no issues with and re-survey that brought that COLA back up. Although, not to medical. He related that the PB17 includes the new blended the level it was, but in many areas it came up almost to that retirement system, and so far the feedback has been good but level. The feedback on housing and the privatized housing there is a long way to go for that. projects revealed that folks are happy with the housing they are

living in. He related they have a close partnership with the 1:59:13 PM Veterans Affairs to ensure that the VA's trauma doesn't impact

their men and women, and noted there have been no issues with LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY advised that the "Blue Star Families" medical. He related that the PB17 includes the new blended organization conducted a survey last year, and he compared the retirement system, and so far the feedback has been good but concerns of the men and women in uniform in Alaska's to those of there is a long way to go for that. the national responses. He remarked that the highest concerns

include: uncertainty with military life style; uncertainty about 1:59:13 PM job security due to the force structure adjustments and changes

in the types of people the nation need to serve in uniform to LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY advised that the "Blue Star Families" meet tomorrow's challenges; retirement and whether they will be organization conducted a survey last year, and he compared the financially secure; child care is a concern because military concerns of the men and women in uniform in Alaska's to those of families want to take care of their children's mental, physical, the national responses. He remarked that the highest concerns and educational, wellbeing; concern, for the second year in a include: uncertainty with military life style; uncertainty about row, over housing costs being higher than at their previous job security due to the force structure adjustments and changes station; 73 percent of active duty families reported incurring in the types of people the nation need to serve in uniform to unexpected expenses primarily due to the military lifestyle, meet tomorrow's challenges; retirement and whether they will be such as packing up and moving; and 7 percent of respondents financially secure; child care is a concern because military reported home schooling which, he commented, is greater than families want to take care of their children's mental, physical, double the rate in the U.S. general population because folks are and educational, wellbeing; concern, for the second year in a concerned about re-establishing in a new school, understanding row, over housing costs being higher than at their previous the curriculum, and to somehow find the way in. He reported station; 73 percent of active duty families reported incurring that military home schooling has prompted a number of unexpected expenses primarily due to the military lifestyle, organizations and programs to help home schoolers who are such as packing up and moving; and 7 percent of respondents grateful to interact with the public school system. reported home schooling which, he commented, is greater than

double the rate in the U.S. general population because folks are 2:01:57 PM concerned about re-establishing in a new school, understanding

the curriculum, and to somehow find the way in. He reported LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY expressed his appreciation for the that military home schooling has prompted a number of committee's time and the ability to discuss what the fantastic organizations and programs to help home schoolers who are men and women in uniform are doing. In the event someone feels grateful to interact with the public school system. a bit discouraged about the future of the nation, he suggested

going to one of his flight lines, into a shop, or hanging out 2:01:57 PM with some of Brian's Soldiers, and he guaranteed people will

have a new feeling about the nation's future. The men and women LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY expressed his appreciation for the of the Air Force today are developing new and innovative ways of committee's time and the ability to discuss what the fantastic taking on the list of challenges with new innovative ways of men and women in uniform are doing. In the event someone feels defending our nation. a bit discouraged about the future of the nation, he suggested

going to one of his flight lines, into a shop, or hanging out 2:02:45 PM with some of Brian's Soldiers, and he guaranteed people will

have a new feeling about the nation's future. The men and women CO-CHAIR COGHILL noted that the members of the committee of the Air Force today are developing new and innovative ways of appreciate the Air Force's investment in Alaska which it is part taking on the list of challenges with new innovative ways of of the economy, and that he intends to ensure the legislature defending our nation. keeps that in focus when discussing the economy and that most

legislators are trying to make it work. Due to the 24 hour news 2:02:45 PM cycles, the things that go on in the world, the public may have

a tendency to be a bit downhearted, and he agreed that America CO-CHAIR COGHILL noted that the members of the committee is in good hands. appreciate the Air Force's investment in Alaska which it is part

of the economy, and that he intends to ensure the legislature 2:03:53 PM keeps that in focus when discussing the economy and that most

legislators are trying to make it work. Due to the 24 hour news CO-CHAIR LEDOUX commented that Lieutenant General Handy said he cycles, the things that go on in the world, the public may have would be bragging about the men and women in uniform, and she a tendency to be a bit downhearted, and he agreed that America pointed out it is not bragging when a person is just telling the is in good hands. truth.

2:03:53 PM LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY responded that he completely agrees.

CO-CHAIR LEDOUX commented that Lieutenant General Handy said he CO-CHAIR COGHILL asked Lieutenant General Handy to let his would be bragging about the men and women in uniform, and she superiors know the committee appreciates allowing him to brief pointed out it is not bragging when a person is just telling the the committee as they are joined at the hip with the Pacific truth. Command. The committee needs to continually remind itself that

Alaska, both an Arctic State and a Pacific State, is a North LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY responded that he completely agrees. American bulwark in many ways. He complimented him on his

presentation. CO-CHAIR COGHILL asked Lieutenant General Handy to let his

superiors know the committee appreciates allowing him to brief LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he will pass along his message. the committee as they are joined at the hip with the Pacific

Command. The committee needs to continually remind itself that 2:04:54 PM Alaska, both an Arctic State and a Pacific State, is a North

American bulwark in many ways. He complimented him on his The committee took an at-ease from 2:04 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. presentation.

2:10:40 PM LIEUTENANT GENERAL HANDY said he will pass along his message.

MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS, Commanding General, U.S. Army Alaska, 2:04:54 PM advised his briefing would present the United States Army Alaska

(USARAK) "America's Arctic Warriors," but first would present a The committee took an at-ease from 2:04 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. five minute command video of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range

Complex (JPARC) put together by soldiers as seen through their 2:10:40 PM eyes.

MAJOR GENERAL BRYAN OWENS, Commanding General, U.S. Army Alaska, 2:11:15 PM advised his briefing would present the United States Army Alaska

(USARAK) "America's Arctic Warriors," but first would present a [Video of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC).] five minute command video of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range

Complex (JPARC) put together by soldiers as seen through their 2:16:54 PM eyes.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS remarked that if that video didn't get the 2:11:15 PM members' heart strings tugged or their blood flowing, nothing

will. He has been in the Army over 32 years and, he expressed [Video of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex (JPARC).] that as a short-timer and first-timer in Alaska he has never

seen such support the Alaskan communities offer, and thanked the 2:16:54 PM committee for its support.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS remarked that if that video didn't get the MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 1, titled members' heart strings tugged or their blood flowing, nothing "Mission Command" of the PowerPoint presentation and advised the will. He has been in the Army over 32 years and, he expressed picture was taken two weeks ago during their Arctic Winter that as a short-timer and first-timer in Alaska he has never Games. It is one squad of twenty-one squads that competed to seen such support the Alaskan communities offer, and thanked the show their skills, commitment, and endurance, throughout the committee for its support. Winter Games which, he pointed out is what Alaskan soldiers do

every day. Major General Owens said he is aware this committee MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 1, titled fully understands the details and he will go over some of the "Mission Command" of the PowerPoint presentation and advised the changes that have occurred since the briefing last year. picture was taken two weeks ago during their Arctic Winter

Games. It is one squad of twenty-one squads that competed to 2:18:06 PM show their skills, commitment, and endurance, throughout the

Winter Games which, he pointed out is what Alaskan soldiers do MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 2, titled every day. Major General Owens said he is aware this committee "Mission Command" and the Mission read as follows: fully understands the details and he will go over some of the

changes that have occurred since the briefing last year. USARAK provides trained and ready forces in support of

worldwide unified land operation; supports theater 2:18:06 PM engagement in the Pacific/Arctic and military

operations in the AK-JOA, in order to contribute to a MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 2, titled stable and secure operational environment. "Mission Command" and the Mission read as follows:

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained it is a threefold mission, and the USARAK provides trained and ready forces in support of primary mission portion is providing trained and ready forces. worldwide unified land operation; supports theater General Mark Milley, Chief of Staff of the Army, advised several engagement in the Pacific/Arctic and military times that the Army's purpose is to fight and win our nation's operations in the AK-JOA, in order to contribute to a wars in a complex environment, and that is what they do. The stable and secure operational environment. United States Army Alaska (USARAK) provides trained and ready

forces, supports the theater engagement in the Pacific and MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained it is a threefold mission, and the Arctic, and military operations in Alaska, including everything primary mission portion is providing trained and ready forces. from humanitarian assistance disaster relief to any actual other General Mark Milley, Chief of Staff of the Army, advised several military operation that may occur. Last year, he said he was times that the Army's purpose is to fight and win our nation's the Commanding General for the United States Army Alaska, and wars in a complex environment, and that is what they do. The Deputy Commander for Alaska Command, and advised he is no longer United States Army Alaska (USARAK) provides trained and ready the Deputy Commander for Alaska Command but assured the forces, supports the theater engagement in the Pacific and committee USARAK is on the preferred sourcing solution. Arctic, and military operations in Alaska, including everything Although, USARAK does not have a formal relationship with from humanitarian assistance disaster relief to any actual other NORTHCOM and ALCOM, he reiterated they are the preferred military operation that may occur. Last year, he said he was sourcing solution, and he remains in close collaboration with the Commanding General for the United States Army Alaska, and Lieutenant General Handy and his staff. Deputy Commander for Alaska Command, and advised he is no longer

the Deputy Commander for Alaska Command but assured the 2:19:37 PM committee USARAK is on the preferred sourcing solution.

Although, USARAK does not have a formal relationship with MAJOR GENERAL OWENS pointed to the left side of slide 2, and NORTHCOM and ALCOM, he reiterated they are the preferred advised that his boss is United States Army Pacific Commander sourcing solution, and he remains in close collaboration with General Vincent Brooks who works for Admiral Harry Harris, the Lieutenant General Handy and his staff. PACOM Commander. A relationship was also established with 1st

Corps, a training readiness authority's relationship, and he 2:19:37 PM takes guidance and gives semi-annual training briefs to

Lieutenant General Stephen Lanza on their readiness. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS pointed to the left side of slide 2, and Restructuring has taken place since the last briefing and he advised that his boss is United States Army Pacific Commander does not have any general officers other than himself in the General Vincent Brooks who works for Admiral Harry Harris, the United States Army Alaska (USARAK). He does have two deputy PACOM Commander. A relationship was also established with 1st commanders, Canadian Army Colonel Martin Frank on the operations Corps, a training readiness authority's relationship, and he side, who is on loan from Canada and he has performed great takes guidance and gives semi-annual training briefs to work. Colonel Sean Reed is to be the deputy commander for Lieutenant General Stephen Lanza on their readiness. sustainment across the entire United States Army Alaska (USARAK) Restructuring has taken place since the last briefing and he enterprise as opposed to only watching over Fort Wainwright. does not have any general officers other than himself in the

United States Army Alaska (USARAK). He does have two deputy GENERAL OWNES advised that no changes have been made to the 1st commanders, Canadian Army Colonel Martin Frank on the operations Stryker Brigades, "still 333 hard charging Strykers," with side, who is on loan from Canada and he has performed great maintenance issues due to the environment, but they are trained work. Colonel Sean Reed is to be the deputy commander for and ready and always out and on the go and the committee is sustainment across the entire United States Army Alaska (USARAK) aware. There have been several changes within the USARAK enterprise as opposed to only watching over Fort Wainwright. Aviation Task Force. He highlighted that they are building an

attack reconnaissance battalion of AH-64 Apache helicopters, MAJOR GENERAL OWENS advised that no changes have been made to they have 20 of the 24 helicopters in, and will be fully the 1st Stryker Brigades, "still 333 hard charging Strykers," operational in September. with maintenance issues due to the environment, but they are

trained and ready and always out and on the go and the committee MAJOR GENERAL OWENS advised that the establishment date for Gray is aware. There have been several changes within the USARAK Eagle Company is next week, with an upgraded MQ-1 Predator with Aviation Task Force. He highlighted that they are building an enhanced capabilities to the Aviation Task Force. Training will attack reconnaissance battalion of AH-64 Apache helicopters, begin in April and its first flight should be early April, he they have 20 of the 24 helicopters in, and will be fully said. operational in September.

2:22:43 PM MAJOR GENERAL OWENS advised that the establishment date for Gray

Eagle Company is next week, with an upgraded MQ-1 Predator with CO-CHAIR COGHILL pointed out to the general public that it is an enhanced capabilities to the Aviation Task Force. Training will unmanned aerial vehicle. begin in April and its first flight should be early April, he

said. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS agreed.

2:22:43 PM CO-CHAIR COGHILL said he appreciates the work that has been done

both there and with the University of Alaska on that very issue. CO-CHAIR COGHILL pointed out to the general public that it is an

unmanned aerial vehicle. 2:23:02 PM

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS agreed. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 3, titled

"Trained and Ready Forces" and advised that Joint Base CO-CHAIR COGHILL said he appreciates the work that has been done Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) is starting to feel the effects of both there and with the University of Alaska on that very issue. the 25 percent reduction at headquarters and most of that is on

range operations, but they are watching it closely, making 2:23:02 PM adjustments and mitigating that.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 3, titled MAJOR GENERAL OWENS turned to the restructure of the 425 and "Trained and Ready Forces" and advised that Joint Base related that United States Senator Dan Sullivan asked the Chief Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) is starting to feel the effects of of Staff of the Army to reconsider the decision announced on the the 25 percent reduction at headquarters and most of that is on 9th of July, 2015. He remarked, they do not know what that will range operations, but they are watching it closely, making look like, but one-half of the unit has deployed to the Joint adjustments and mitigating that. Readiness Training Center (JRTC), Fort Polk, Louisiana. They

will be training for the next three weeks at Ft. Polk in a MAJOR GENERAL OWENS turned to the restructure of the 425 and validation exercise of the Airborne Task Force. They will related that United States Senator Dan Sullivan asked the Chief provide observations, and it will inform a decision for the of Staff of the Army to reconsider the decision announced on the Chief of Staff of the Army which is expected within the April 9th of July, 2015. He remarked, they do not know what that will timeframe. He explained that the Northern Warfare Training look like, but one-half of the unit has deployed to the Joint Center (NWTC) is a United States Army Alaska installation Readiness Training Center (JRTC), Fort Polk, Louisiana. They located in Black Rapids, Alaska, and described it as the Active will be training for the next three weeks at Ft. Polk in a Army's only Cold Region Training Proponent. It provides an validation exercise of the Airborne Task Force. They will opportunity to train the American Arctic Warriors on extreme provide observations, and it will inform a decision for the cold weather, military mountaineering, and partnering by Chief of Staff of the Army which is expected within the April exchanges of instructors, he related. timeframe. He explained that the Northern Warfare Training

Center (NWTC) is a United States Army Alaska installation 2:24:44 PM located in Black Rapids, Alaska, and described it as the Active

Army's only Cold Region Training Proponent. It provides an MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 4, titled opportunity to train the American Arctic Warriors on extreme "Supporting Unified Land Operations" and advised "our primary cold weather, military mountaineering, and partnering by function." He advised they have been involved in Afghanistan, exchanges of instructors, he related. Kuwait, and Iraq, with troops in both Kuwait and Afghanistan for

Operation Freedom Sentinel. Recently, the 4th Brigade Combat 2:24:44 PM Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division (425) returned from

their Kosovo deployment. The slide points out that they are MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 4, titled globally responsive and regionally engaged. "Supporting Unified Land Operations" and advised "our primary

function." He advised they have been involved in Afghanistan, 2:25:33 PM Kuwait, and Iraq, with troops in both Kuwait and Afghanistan for

Operation Freedom Sentinel. Recently, the 4th Brigade Combat MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 5, "Supporting Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division (425) returned from Unified Land Operations" and advised they support theater their Kosovo deployment. The slide points out that they are engagements through two lenses, Asia-Pacific and the Arctic globally responsive and regionally engaged. Lens. They focus on countries with high altitude, military

mountaineering, or extreme cold weather regions such as, Japan, 2:25:33 PM Nepal, Chile, India, Mongolia, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland,

and Denmark. He explained that under the Arctic Lens they work MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 5, "Supporting primarily with the Arctic 8, minus Russia and Iceland, who does Unified Land Operations" and advised they support theater not have an army. The army maintains strong ties with these engagements through two lenses, Asia-Pacific and the Arctic countries and partners to deter aggression and ensure peace and Lens. They focus on countries with high altitude, military stability in the region. Last year, he highlighted, they mountaineering, or extreme cold weather regions such as, Japan, conducted a cold region military mountaineering collaborative Nepal, Chile, India, Mongolia, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, training event at the USARAK Northern Worker Training Center and Denmark. He explained that under the Arctic Lens they work [based at Fort Wainwright] with 12 nations attending. This year primarily with the Arctic 8, minus Russia and Iceland, who does nations and other U.S. agencies have been invited to attend not have an army. The army maintains strong ties with these in March, 2016. countries and partners to deter aggression and ensure peace and

stability in the region. Last year, he highlighted, they 2:26:52 PM conducted a cold region military mountaineering collaborative

training event at the USARAK Northern Worker Training Center CO-CHAIR LEDOUX noted that Chile is included under the Asia- [based at Fort Wainwright] with 12 nations attending. This year Pacific listing and it appears misplaced. nations and other U.S. agencies have been invited to attend

in March, 2016. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained that Chile has a ski school, high

altitude, extreme cold weather, mountainous terrain, and it sees 2:26:52 PM itself Western-looking into the Pacific. Chile asked General

Brooks and Admiral Harris to be part of the Pacific equation, CO-CHAIR LEDOUX noted that Chile is included under the Asia- and "we have sent some instructors" over to Chile's ski school Pacific listing and it appears misplaced. and it will send instructors to the United States to jointly

collaborate on best practices. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained that Chile has a ski school, high

altitude, extreme cold weather, mountainous terrain, and it sees 2:28:13 PM itself Western-looking into the Pacific. Chile asked General

Brooks and Admiral Harris to be part of the Pacific equation, MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 6, "Military Ops and "we have sent some instructors" over to Chile's ski school in the Alaska JOA" and highlighted that the Arctic Anvil is and it will send instructors to the United States to jointly multi-national. The three-fold exercise begins at the end of collaborate on best practices. July 2016, just before Red Flag. The first exercise is a train

up for First Stryker Brigade, with a National Training Center 2:28:13 PM (NTC) rotation January 2017, and a Full Operational Capability

(FOC) for the operational construct for the Joint Pacific Multi- MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 6, "Military Ops National Readiness Capability. He described it as basically a in the Alaska JOA" and highlighted that the Arctic Anvil is Combat Training Center Directorate (CTCD) in a box providing multi-national. The three-fold exercise begins at the end of higher control, observer/controller trainers, and providing July 2016, just before Red Flag. The first exercise is a train instrumentation throughout. They are being put to the test in up for First Stryker Brigade, with a National Training Center Hawaii with the 25th Infantry Division, and "we will take them (NTC) rotation January 2017, and a Full Operational Capability to their final exercise" before they are fully operational in (FOC) for the operational construct for the Joint Pacific Multi- July-August. National Readiness Capability. He described it as basically a

Combat Training Center Directorate (CTCD) in a box providing 2:29:54 PM higher control, observer/controller trainers, and providing

instrumentation throughout. They are being put to the test in MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained that is part of Pacific Pathways Hawaii with the 25th Infantry Division, and "we will take them and; therefore, Arctic Anvil will be part of a trifecta of other to their final exercise" before they are fully operational in exercises ongoing throughout the U.S. Army Pacific. In March, July-August. 15, the Stryker Brigade was sent to Korea, Japan. This year

they will be in Alaska. He turned to "Wildfire Suppression" and 2:29:54 PM reminded the committee there were quite a few fires last year,

not one fire was set by the U.S. Army or the U.S. military, MAJOR GENERAL OWENS explained that is part of Pacific Pathways which was a big deal because they were up in the 700s in July and; therefore, Arctic Anvil will be part of a trifecta of other when he took over. He said they worked closely with Alaska Fire exercises ongoing throughout the U.S. Army Pacific. In March, Service, the army's L&O team has gone from two to eight, and 15, the Stryker Brigade was sent to Korea, Japan. This year they provide incredible science behind the art of keeping the they will be in Alaska. He turned to "Wildfire Suppression" and fires from occurring as the army continues to increase its reminded the committee there were quite a few fires last year, training in its training areas. It allows them to train year not one fire was set by the U.S. Army or the U.S. military, around and not set fire and mitigate the fires they do set, he which was a big deal because they were up in the 700s in July remarked. when he took over. He said they worked closely with Alaska Fire

Service, the army's L&O team has gone from two to eight, and 2:31:20 PM they provide incredible science behind the art of keeping the

fires from occurring as the army continues to increase its CO-CHAIR COGHILL offered his appreciation of less smoke because training in its training areas. It allows them to train year the Interior has the Park Training Area, and the Fort Wainwright around and not set fire and mitigate the fires they do set, he Bombing Area, and the Interior had enough fires without the army remarked. setting fires. Seriously, he noted, the state is grateful that

the army's benefit of training is also the state's benefit to 2:31:20 PM fire suppression.

CO-CHAIR COGHILL offered his appreciation of less smoke because 2:31:58 PM the Interior has the Park Training Area, and the Fort Wainwright

Bombing Area, and the Interior had enough fires without the army MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that they lost 21 training days last setting fires. Seriously, he noted, the state is grateful that year due to smoke in the Interior, and they want to get as far the army's benefit of training is also the state's benefit to left of fires as possible, whether inside or outside of the fire suppression. training areas. There were eleven search and rescue missions

[last year], nine were Alaska State Trooper assists, and two 2:31:58 PM were downed aircraft and, he related they flew approximately

.2 hours in search and rescue and assisting inside Alaska. As MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that they lost 21 training days last to mutual aid, they responded to the Explosive Safety Guide year due to smoke in the Interior, and they want to get as far (EOD) and the fire department's response to Fort Wainwright. left of fires as possible, whether inside or outside of the

training areas. There were eleven search and rescue missions 2:33:02 PM [last year], nine were Alaska State Trooper assists, and two

were downed aircraft and, he related they flew approximately MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 7, "Vision," and .2 hours in search and rescue and assisting inside Alaska. As advised the new vision statement captures the essence of who to mutual aid, they responded to the Explosive Safety Guide they are, which read as follows: (EOD) and the fire department's response to Fort Wainwright.

America's Arctic warriors ready to fight and win. 2:33:02 PM Forged in Alaska, ready and resilient, strengthened by

Civilians and Families. Strategically located, MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 7, "Vision," and globally responsive, and regionally engaged. advised the new vision statement captures the essence of who

they are, which read as follows: MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that the army's sole purpose is to

fight and win our nation's wars in complex environments. America's Arctic warriors ready to fight and win.

Forged in Alaska, ready and resilient, strengthened by 2:33:33 PM Civilians and Families. Strategically located,

globally responsive, and regionally engaged. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 8, "America's

Arctic Warriors Ready to Fight and Win Anywhere" and pointed out MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that the army's sole purpose is to that they do not just train in cold weather, they live in cold fight and win our nation's wars in complex environments. weather in cold weather regions. America's Arctic Warriors are

postured to fight and win anywhere on the globe, and 31 percent 2:33:33 PM of the world are cold climates, with 27 percent considered

mountainous, he pointed out. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 8, "America's

Arctic Warriors Ready to Fight and Win Anywhere" and pointed out 2:34:36 PM that they do not just train in cold weather, they live in cold

weather in cold weather regions. America's Arctic Warriors are MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 9, "Arctic postured to fight and win anywhere on the globe, and 31 percent Region Relationships" and reiterated they collaborate with the of the world are cold climates, with 27 percent considered Arctic 8 minus Russia and Iceland, which includes exchanging mountainous, he pointed out. instructors and, he commented, all of the countries intend to

attend the collaborative training event in March, at Black 2:34:36 PM Rapids, Alaska.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 9, "Arctic 2:35:13 PM Region Relationships" and reiterated they collaborate with the

Arctic 8 minus Russia and Iceland, which includes exchanging MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 10, "Arctic instructors and, he commented, all of the countries intend to Presence" and the Air Force Pegasus series, and explained it is attend the collaborative training event in March, at Black an operation in Deadhorse, Alaska that will take place next Rapids, Alaska. March. The expectation is that along with the maneuver, either

Stryker or Airborne, will introduce the Apache Helicopters and 2:35:13 PM "do a FARC operation forward area, arming and resupply

position." They will move from there up to Deadhorse, perform a MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 10, "Arctic downed aircraft search and rescue with one of those aircraft, Presence" and the Air Force Pegasus series, and explained it is and then work through some of the communications pieces [Co- an operation in Deadhorse, Alaska that will take place next Chair Coghill] mentioned earlier. He pointed to the picture on March. The expectation is that along with the maneuver, either the right of slide 10, and said they partner with DoD partners Stryker or Airborne, will introduce the Apache Helicopters and in academia, and also have a strong tie with (indisc.) labs and "do a FARC operation forward area, arming and resupply PEO soldiers to improve the survivability of our soldiers in the position." They will move from there up to Deadhorse, perform a Arctic region. downed aircraft search and rescue with one of those aircraft,

and then work through some of the communications pieces [Co- 2:36:19 PM Chair Coghill] mentioned earlier. He pointed to the picture on

the right of slide 10, and said they partner with DoD partners MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 11, "Forged in in academia, and also have a strong tie with (indisc.) labs and Alaska" and expressed pride in the Joint Pacific-Alaska Range PEO soldiers to improve the survivability of our soldiers in the Complex (JPARC). The ground maneuver training area is 2.5 times Arctic region. the size of the National Training Center (NTC), and the

relationship between the National Guard and the U.S. Air Force 2:36:19 PM here is extraordinary. He expressed pride that this type of

relationship cannot be found in any other area in the world. He MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 11, "Forged in noted the training areas are close to the Arctic Circle and Alaska" and expressed pride in the Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Fairbanks is only 120 miles from the Arctic Circle. Complex (JPARC). The ground maneuver training area is 2.5 times

the size of the National Training Center (NTC), and the 2:37:09 PM relationship between the National Guard and the U.S. Air Force

here is extraordinary. He expressed pride that this type of MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 12, "Ready and relationship cannot be found in any other area in the world. He Resilient" and pointed out that they build resiliency into the noted the training areas are close to the Arctic Circle and troops with numerous programs, and they work closely with the Fairbanks is only 120 miles from the Arctic Circle. communities. He stressed that Lieutenant General Handy and he

are amazed and humbled by their soldiers these days and are very 2:37:09 PM proud of them. Alaska builds resiliency just by being here, and

Alaska's soldiers are definitely resilient. He said, "We don't MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 12, "Ready and just have soldiers in the army; our soldiers are the Army," and Resilient" and pointed out that they build resiliency into the it is important to focus on the soldiers. troops with numerous programs, and they work closely with the

communities. He stressed that Lieutenant General Handy and he 2:38:01 PM are amazed and humbled by their soldiers these days and are very

proud of them. Alaska builds resiliency just by being here, and MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 13, Alaska's soldiers are definitely resilient. He said, "We don't "Strategically Located" and reminded the committee that just have soldiers in the army; our soldiers are the Army," and Lieutenant General Handy discussed the issue of being it is important to focus on the soldiers. strategically located. He explained that in order to launch

from the East Coast, the flight is over Alaska to get anywhere 2:38:01 PM in the world, and it's only a nine hour flight into Germany. He

reiterated Lieutenant General Handy by saying that many people MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 13, look at the map in a flat fashion rather than the manner in "Strategically Located" and reminded the committee that which it is designed, and Alaska is definitely strategically Lieutenant General Handy discussed the issue of being located. He pointed to the bottom on the slide which read as strategically located. He explained that in order to launch follows: "Alaska is the most strategic place on earth" - from the East Coast, the flight is over Alaska to get anywhere Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, Testimony to Congress 1935. in the world, and it's only a nine hour flight into Germany. He

reiterated Lieutenant General Handy by saying that many people 2:38:46 PM look at the map in a flat fashion rather than the manner in

which it is designed, and Alaska is definitely strategically MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 14, "Globally located. He pointed to the bottom on the slide which read as Responsive & Regionally Engaged" and related that he is not follows: "Alaska is the most strategic place on earth" - going to go through this busy slide. He said his intention was Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, Testimony to Congress 1935. to show they are globally responsive and regionally engaged.

The slide depicts the many places they are located, and the many 2:38:46 PM things the soldiers have been doing since FY14, which covers the

entire globe, he said. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slide 14, "Globally

Responsive & Regionally Engaged" and related that he is not 2:39:16 PM going to go through this busy slide. He said his intention was

to show they are globally responsive and regionally engaged. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slides 15-16, "USARAK The slide depicts the many places they are located, and the many is a Community of Excellence" and described the slide as a short things the soldiers have been doing since FY14, which covers the list of our soldier's accomplishments, and he discussed a few of entire globe, he said. the accomplishments listed on the slide.

2:39:16 PM 2:40:56 PM

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS directed attention to slides 15-16, "USARAK LIEUTENANT COLONEL TIM JONES, U.S. Army, Retired, referred to is a Community of Excellence" and described the slide as a short the statement that the JRTC rotation is a validation of the list of our soldier's accomplishments, and he discussed a few of Airborne Task Force, and asked whether they are organized and the accomplishments listed on the slide. manned at the same level they would be if the reduction in force

directive occurs. 2:40:56 PM

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS responded no, they are not manned at 1,046, LIEUTENANT COLONEL TIM JONES, U.S. Army, Retired, referred to they have manned at 1,600 and the intent is to be able to see the statement that the JRTC rotation is a validation of the possible weaknesses in the formation. He explained they chose Airborne Task Force, and asked whether they are organized and 1,600 because they believe the 1,046 is an Airborne Task Force manned at the same level they would be if the reduction in force but not joint forcible entry capable. Commanding General directive occurs. Vincent Brooks and the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Mark

Milley asked them to look at a joint forcible entry capable MAJOR GENERAL OWENS responded no, they are not manned at 1,046, formation that is autonomous for 72 hours. He explained "you've they have manned at 1,600 and the intent is to be able to see got to be able to jump in, expand (indisc.), and bring in possible weaknesses in the formation. He explained they chose (indisc.) air land aircraft." In order to accomplish that, 1,600 because they believe the 1,046 is an Airborne Task Force 1,600 is the correct level to do the validation, he opined. but not joint forcible entry capable. Commanding General

Vincent Brooks and the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Mark MAJOR GENERAL OWENS offered that the entire 4th Brigade Combat Milley asked them to look at a joint forcible entry capable Team, 25th Infantry Division (425), Brigade Combat Team (BCT) formation that is autonomous for 72 hours. He explained "you've will be at JRTC. The first part is a joint forcible entry got to be able to jump in, expand (indisc.), and bring in operation on the evening of February 16, and Senator Dan (indisc.) air land aircraft." In order to accomplish that, Sullivan intends to attend and be there for the jump. 1,600 is the correct level to do the validation, he opined. Subsequent to the joint forcible entry operation, they will

reset, introduce the rest of the brigade, and continue the MAJOR GENERAL OWENS offered that the entire 4th Brigade Combat rotation with a defense and offensive operation. Thereby, the Team, 25th Infantry Division (425), Brigade Combat Team (BCT) entire 425 will be trained and ready coming out of this CTC, and will be at JRTC. The first part is a joint forcible entry will also be able to provide input to inform the Chief of Staff operation on the evening of February 16, and Senator Dan of the Army's decision on the first portion of this, which is Sullivan intends to attend and be there for the jump. the Airborne Task Force. He opined it could be anything from Subsequent to the joint forcible entry operation, they will 1,046 to the entire brigade combat team (BCT) remaining as it reset, introduce the rest of the brigade, and continue the is. The decision is unknown, but the Department of the Army rotation with a defense and offensive operation. Thereby, the staff said the decision was made. He said, "So, 1,046 is the entire 425 will be trained and ready coming out of this CTC, and decision." General Mark Milley promised three things to Senator will also be able to provide input to inform the Chief of Staff Sullivan, such that he would visit Alaska, he would maintain the of the Army's decision on the first portion of this, which is BCT at 85 percent strength until he makes his decision, and he the Airborne Task Force. He opined it could be anything from would relook at the decision, and he is doing all three of 1,046 to the entire brigade combat team (BCT) remaining as it those. A decision is expected sometime after the JRTC rotation, is. The decision is unknown, but the Department of the Army he said. staff said the decision was made. He said, "So, 1,046 is the

decision." General Mark Milley promised three things to Senator 2:44:48 PM Sullivan, such that he would visit Alaska, he would maintain the

BCT at 85 percent strength until he makes his decision, and he SENATOR BISHOP noted the Gray Eagles will be first flight in would relook at the decision, and he is doing all three of early April, and asked how many aircraft total in that package. those. A decision is expected sometime after the JRTC rotation,

he said. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that the full package is 12, and

they are receiving 6 aircraft due to slowdowns in production. 2:44:48 PM They will maintain 6 until there is a decision to send 3 more,

making their total compliment 9 aircraft at Fort Wainwright. SENATOR BISHOP noted the Gray Eagles will be first flight in

early April, and asked how many aircraft total in that package. SENATOR BISHOP asked where they will be bedded down.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS related that the full package is 12, and MAJOR GENERAL OWENS reiterated, Fort Wainwright. Currently, it they are receiving 6 aircraft due to slowdowns in production. will be in Hanger 1 in Fort Wainwright, but they are hopeful the They will maintain 6 until there is a decision to send 3 more, MILCON piece will be approved for a new hanger, he added. making their total compliment 9 aircraft at Fort Wainwright.

SENATOR BISHOP commented that Alaska is bragging proud of its SENATOR BISHOP asked where they will be bedded down. military, and opined some people at the table may be army brats.

He related a story about his father while in the service. MAJOR GENERAL OWENS reiterated, Fort Wainwright. Currently, it

will be in Hanger 1 in Fort Wainwright, but they are hopeful the 2:47:04 PM MILCON piece will be approved for a new hanger, he added.

CO-CHAIR COGHILL remarked the Interior sees the Strykers move on SENATOR BISHOP commented that Alaska is bragging proud of its a fairly regular basis, and it is to be commended that they move military, and opined some people at the table may be army brats. well and allow traffic to flow on some of Alaska's small and He related a story about his father while in the service. congested areas, such as Richardson Highway. The army has set

out to move fairly freely between the Fairbanks area and the 2:47:04 PM Black Rapids area. When he sees a convoy moving he tries to

make sure he is on a double-lane road, but they have allowed CO-CHAIR COGHILL remarked the Interior sees the Strykers move on traffic to move fairly well and have kept the complaints low. a fairly regular basis, and it is to be commended that they move He asked that Major General Owens pass his appreciation on to well and allow traffic to flow on some of Alaska's small and the organizer. congested areas, such as Richardson Highway. The army has set

out to move fairly freely between the Fairbanks area and the 2:48:11 PM Black Rapids area. When he sees a convoy moving he tries to

make sure he is on a double-lane road, but they have allowed MAJOR GENERAL OWENS extended his appreciation and commented that traffic to move fairly well and have kept the complaints low. much thought goes into [moving], such as everything from Moose He asked that Major General Owens pass his appreciation on to hunting season to traffic on the roadways. He said they want to the organizer. be able to train and be prepared to fight and win our nation's

wars, and at the same time be good neighbors and good citizens 2:48:11 PM of the communities.

MAJOR GENERAL OWENS extended his appreciation and commented that CO-CHAIR LEDOUX said she is glad to have Major General Owens much thought goes into [moving], such as everything from Moose here. hunting season to traffic on the roadways. He said they want to

be able to train and be prepared to fight and win our nation's 2:48:58 PM wars, and at the same time be good neighbors and good citizens

of the communities. CO-CHAIR COGHILL advised this briefing was the time to hear from

him on his mission and that the committee wants to join in on CO-CHAIR LEDOUX said she is glad to have Major General Owens the mission with America. Geography is a big deal, he related, here. and the committee wants to be supportive as much as possible but

the only way they can be supportive is to get these high level 2:48:58 PM briefings, he advised.

CO-CHAIR COGHILL advised this briefing was the time to hear from 2:49:50 PM him on his mission and that the committee wants to join in on

the mission with America. Geography is a big deal, he related, The committee took an at-ease from 2:49 p.m. to 2:54 p.m. and the committee wants to be supportive as much as possible but

the only way they can be supportive is to get these high level 2:54:47 PM briefings, he advised.

CO-CHAIR COGHILL invited the next presenter to come forward, and 2:49:50 PM noted the committee packet includes the Code of Military Justice

[version] the House of Representatives passed, and the Senate The committee took an at-ease from 2:49 p.m. to 2:54 p.m. has not yet taken it up.

2:54:47 PM 2:55:38 PM

CO-CHAIR COGHILL invited the next presenter to come forward, and ADJUTANT GENERAL LAURIE HUMMEL, Commissioner, Department of noted the committee packet includes the Code of Military Justice Military & Veterans Affairs, Alaska National Guard, Adjutant [version] the House of Representatives passed, and the Senate General, said she would like to offer the military side of the has not yet taken it up. Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and its

accomplishments in the past year, and discuss current 2:55:38 PM initiatives and future plans. She related this is her 36th year

in uniform and noted that Lieutenant General Handy said the ADJUTANT GENERAL LAURIE HUMMEL, Commissioner, Department of airmen and soldiers serving in Alaska are happy here because it Military & Veterans Affairs, Alaska National Guard, Adjutant feels like home. She related that "this is our home and we are General, said she would like to offer the military side of the Alaskans." Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and its

accomplishments in the past year, and discuss current 2:58:09 PM initiatives and future plans. She related this is her 36th year

in uniform and noted that Lieutenant General Handy said the ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 2, "DMVA airmen and soldiers serving in Alaska are happy here because it Mission" and advised it is in statute, which read: feels like home. She related that "this is our home and we are

Alaskans." To provide military forces to accomplish military

missions in the state or around the world; provide 2:58:09 PM homeland security and defense; emergency preparedness,

response, and recovery; veterans services; and youth ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 2, "DMVA military style training and education. Mission" and advised it is in statute, which read:

ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 3, "Core To provide military forces to accomplish military Services" and explained they have reinterpreted their DMVA missions in the state or around the world; provide mission into four core services to the state, which read: homeland security and defense; emergency preparedness,

response, and recovery; veterans services; and youth Defend and Protect Alaska and the United States military style training and education. Disaster Preparedness/Response and Recovery

Outreach to Veterans and Military Families ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 3, "Core Youth Intervention Services" and explained they have reinterpreted their DMVA

mission into four core services to the state, which read: ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted there are strong linkages between

the first two. Yet, she explained, linking all four together Defend and Protect Alaska and the United States takes a bit of creative thinking but that is exactly what they Disaster Preparedness/Response and Recovery are doing within the department to breakdown silos of Outreach to Veterans and Military Families independent activity and to work together synergistically. Youth Intervention

2:58:07 PM ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted there are strong linkages between

the first two. Yet, she explained, linking all four together ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 4, "DMVA takes a bit of creative thinking but that is exactly what they Vision and Core Values" and offered that to assist with are doing within the department to breakdown silos of synchronizing the efforts in the department, she did developed independent activity and to work together synergistically. departmental vision and core values to help integrate its

diverse missions and activities, which read: 2:58:07 PM

Vision: Through constant collaboration internally and ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 4, "DMVA with external partners, DMVA implements a viable Vision and Core Values" and offered that to assist with Arctic strategy, increases emergency management synchronizing the efforts in the department, she did developed capacity, and expands engagement with Alaskan departmental vision and core values to help integrate its communities, all while achieving federal mission diverse missions and activities, which read: assurance.

Vision: Through constant collaboration internally and ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted that when reviewing the Vision with external partners, DMVA implements a viable statement, there are essentially three major objectives. The Arctic strategy, increases emergency management first is executing viable Arctic strategy. She pointed out, capacity, and expands engagement with Alaskan there are 53 other National Guards in 49 other states, but communities, all while achieving federal mission Alaska is the only state that makes the United States an Arctic assurance. Nation, and it makes sense to follow the lead of Governor Bill

Walker and the legislature to be at the forefront of developing ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted that when reviewing the Vision and executing an arctic policy. The second effort is to statement, there are essentially three major objectives. The increase emergency management capacity and, she said, they first is executing viable Arctic strategy. She pointed out, deliberately chose the words "increase" and "capacity" because there are 53 other National Guards in 49 other states, but words mean things. It is known that the Division of Homeland Alaska is the only state that makes the United States an Arctic Security and Emergency Management within the Department of Nation, and it makes sense to follow the lead of Governor Bill Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is filled with professionals Walker and the legislature to be at the forefront of developing but they can't do it alone. That is where increasing capacity and executing an arctic policy. The second effort is to comes in and she commented that they can increase their capacity increase emergency management capacity and, she said, they through refining processes, developing mission partners, or deliberately chose the words "increase" and "capacity" because improving their own individual resilience. For example, by words mean things. It is known that the Division of Homeland building a seven day emergency kit, available for free on the Security and Emergency Management within the Department of department's web site. The department knows that in order to Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is filled with professionals increase capacity they must conduct outreach which leads to but they can't do it alone. That is where increasing capacity engagement with Alaskan communities. Typically, the word comes in and she commented that they can increase their capacity "community" denotes a geographic area but there are other types through refining processes, developing mission partners, or of Alaskan communities, such as the community of the military, improving their own individual resilience. For example, by veterans, emergency managers, and pet owners. The outreach is building a seven day emergency kit, available for free on the focused on physical areas and the people living in those areas department's web site. The department knows that in order to who come together to create communities of commonality of increase capacity they must conduct outreach which leads to purpose. engagement with Alaskan communities. Typically, the word

"community" denotes a geographic area but there are other types 3:00:51 PM of Alaskan communities, such as the community of the military,

veterans, emergency managers, and pet owners. The outreach is ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL pointed to the words "federal mission focused on physical areas and the people living in those areas assurance" within the vision statement, and advised that all of who come together to create communities of commonality of the divisions within DMVA and especially the National Guard, purpose. have federal requirements and federal funding. The Alaska

National Guard must maintain appropriate readiness to fight and 3:00:51 PM win our nation's wars, which is why they exist and are funded.

The Division of Administrative Services must account and ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL pointed to the words "federal mission document expenditures accurately to generate federal receipts, assurance" within the vision statement, and advised that all of and each division within the department has a primary task. She the divisions within DMVA and especially the National Guard, related it is her job to integrate those efforts and stretch have federal requirements and federal funding. The Alaska [federal] dollars, and to especially stretch the Alaskan National Guard must maintain appropriate readiness to fight and dollars, and to best serve Alaskans at the same time. She win our nation's wars, which is why they exist and are funded. pointed to the Rural Engagement Initiative on slide 4, and said The Division of Administrative Services must account and it alludes to the department-wide outreach efforts to assist document expenditures accurately to generate federal receipts, rural communities in being stronger and more resilient. On the and each division within the department has a primary task. She other hand, the Rural Engagement Initiative is a specific related it is her job to integrate those efforts and stretch initiative in the governor's budget as an increment aiming to [federal] dollars, and to especially stretch the Alaskan seed detachments of the Alaska State Defense Force throughout dollars, and to best serve Alaskans at the same time. She rural Alaska. Initially, in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta to pointed to the Rural Engagement Initiative on slide 4, and said ultimately set enhanced conditions for establishment and it alludes to the department-wide outreach efforts to assist retention in the National Guard and other service components. rural communities in being stronger and more resilient. On the She then pointed to their Core Values, which includes other hand, the Rural Engagement Initiative is a specific professionalism, commitment, and teamwork, and how they plan to initiative in the governor's budget as an increment aiming to continue improving the National Guard and the department. seed detachments of the Alaska State Defense Force throughout

rural Alaska. Initially, in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta to 3:02:34 PM ultimately set enhanced conditions for establishment and

retention in the National Guard and other service components. ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 5, "DMVA She then pointed to their Core Values, which includes Commissioner's Goals" and explained these are the goals she professionalism, commitment, and teamwork, and how they plan to developed and presented to Governor Walker fairly early on. continue improving the National Guard and the department. While the goals may appear simplistic upon first read, they are

actually complex goals requiring the entire department to work 3:02:34 PM together to achieve, she explained. A theme within the

department is the breaking down of walls and integration of one ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 5, "DMVA division with the other as, she noted, they are truly in the Commissioner's Goals" and explained these are the goals she business of making one plus one equals three. developed and presented to Governor Walker fairly early on.

While the goals may appear simplistic upon first read, they are 3:03:04 PM actually complex goals requiring the entire department to work

together to achieve, she explained. A theme within the ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 6, "DMVA department is the breaking down of walls and integration of one Strategy" and advised in order to reach those goals, they division with the other as, she noted, they are truly in the recently created an integrated strategy with four major lines of business of making one plus one equals three. effort which lead to the goal of integrated DMVA activities to

create a more secure and resilient Alaska. The four lines of 3:03:04 PM effort from the vision statement, and the cross-functional

objectives listed across the bottom of the slide, are what helps ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 6, "DMVA them to focus and integrate their efforts. Strategy" and advised in order to reach those goals, they

recently created an integrated strategy with four major lines of ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 7, effort which lead to the goal of integrated DMVA activities to "Kivalina" and advised in January they took an Air Guard C-130 create a more secure and resilient Alaska. The four lines of on a training mission with personnel from the National Guard, effort from the vision statement, and the cross-functional Homeland Security and Management Division, a couple of staffers objectives listed across the bottom of the slide, are what helps from the Office of the Governor, and Lieutenant Governor Byron them to focus and integrate their efforts. Mallott. They traveled to Kotzebue where they transferred to

the Army Guard Black Hawk Helicopters and flew on to Kivalina. ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 7, While in Kivalina, Lieutenant Governor Mallott and those in "Kivalina" and advised in January they took an Air Guard C-130 uniform visited the local school and met with school children on a training mission with personnel from the National Guard, and leadership. They were able to present information to the Homeland Security and Management Division, a couple of staffers community on the National Guard, the Alaska Military Youth from the Office of the Governor, and Lieutenant Governor Byron Academy, and Alaska's veteran's services. While this occurred, Mallott. They traveled to Kotzebue where they transferred to Mike O'Hare, Division Director of Homeland Security and the Army Guard Black Hawk Helicopters and flew on to Kivalina. Emergency Management, and a team of his emergency managers met While in Kivalina, Lieutenant Governor Mallott and those in with the local emergency planning committee and leadership to uniform visited the local school and met with school children update Kivalina's disaster plans. She pointed out that this one and leadership. They were able to present information to the trip demonstrates the ability of DMVA to provide all of its core community on the National Guard, the Alaska Military Youth services at a tremendous cost savings to Alaska. Academy, and Alaska's veteran's services. While this occurred,

Mike O'Hare, Division Director of Homeland Security and 3:04:55 PM Emergency Management, and a team of his emergency managers met

with the local emergency planning committee and leadership to ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 8, "State update Kivalina's disaster plans. She pointed out that this one General Fund Dollars Spent - DMVA" and advised it is the trip demonstrates the ability of DMVA to provide all of its core "becoming famous DMVA iceberg slide." The slide shows that for services at a tremendous cost savings to Alaska. a contribution in this year's governor's budget of $18.4 million

of state money the state receives over $500 [million] in federal 3:04:55 PM receipts, the above-water portion of the iceberg.

ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 8, "State 3:05:32 PM General Fund Dollars Spent - DMVA" and advised it is the

"becoming famous DMVA iceberg slide." The slide shows that for ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 9, and a contribution in this year's governor's budget of $18.4 million advised one of her primary jobs as adjutant general is to ensure of state money the state receives over $500 [million] in federal that the Alaska National Guard is a relevant force for the state receipts, the above-water portion of the iceberg. and federal governments. To that end, they have hosted a number

of strategic leader engagements this year. She then explained 3:05:32 PM the various events and attendees. She noted she never misses an

opportunity to gain more voice for Alaska, and usually when she ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 9, and travels to Washington D.C. meets with the Alaska congressional advised one of her primary jobs as adjutant general is to ensure delegation. She noted she has discussed with Senator Dan that the Alaska National Guard is a relevant force for the state Sullivan everything from keeping army active duty force and federal governments. To that end, they have hosted a number structure in Alaska to the F-35 basing schedule to combat rescue of strategic leader engagements this year. She then explained helicopter fielding. Recently, Representative Don Young the various events and attendees. She noted she never misses an introduced the "Rural Guard and Reserve Act of 2016" removing a opportunity to gain more voice for Alaska, and usually when she cap on reimbursement for travel to attend training drills. As travels to Washington D.C. meets with the Alaska congressional written in the joint travel regulation now, this cap is a delegation. She noted she has discussed with Senator Dan disincentive because when a service member lives off the road Sullivan everything from keeping army active duty force network, many soldiers have to pay more just to get to drill structure in Alaska to the F-35 basing schedule to combat rescue than they are paid for drilling. Senator Lisa Murkowski has helicopter fielding. Recently, Representative Don Young worked diligently with DMVA to ensure the previous National introduced the "Rural Guard and Reserve Act of 2016" removing a Guard bad actors have been administratively processed in the cap on reimbursement for travel to attend training drills. As most just and expeditious way possible. Working in partnership written in the joint travel regulation now, this cap is a with the congressional delegation has created new opportunities disincentive because when a service member lives off the road for the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) it network, many soldiers have to pay more just to get to drill would not have been able to create on its own. [Slide 9, than they are paid for drilling. Senator Lisa Murkowski has photographs of: former U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, Piper worked diligently with DMVA to ensure the previous National Campbell; Secretary of Defense, Ash Carter; 38th Chief of Staff Guard bad actors have been administratively processed in the of the U.S. Army General Ray Odierno; Lieutenant General Timothy most just and expeditious way possible. Working in partnership J. Kadavy Director, Army National Guard Bureau; Admiral Harry B. with the congressional delegation has created new opportunities Harris Jr., Commander, US Pacific Command.] for the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA) it

would not have been able to create on its own. [Slide 9, 3:08:28 PM photographs of: former U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, Piper

Campbell; Secretary of Defense, Ash Carter; 38th Chief of Staff ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 10, of the U.S. Army General Ray Odierno; Lieutenant General Timothy "Initiatives" and noted they have created initiatives with some J. Kadavy Director, Army National Guard Bureau; Admiral Harry B. of the people in the room. House Bill 126, the Alaska Code of Harris Jr., Commander, US Pacific Command.] Military Justice passed the House of Representatives with a 39

to 0 vote, and asked that the Senators at the table assist by 3:08:28 PM moving the bill as swiftly as possible. She pointed out

Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Weaver is available to answer ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL directed attention to slide 10, questions about the Code of Military Justice, the non-judicial "Initiatives" and noted they have created initiatives with some punishment regulation that it will enable, and how it will be of the people in the room. House Bill 126, the Alaska Code of implemented within the force. Military Justice passed the House of Representatives with a 39

to 0 vote, and asked that the Senators at the table assist by 3:09:18 PM moving the bill as swiftly as possible. She pointed out

Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Weaver is available to answer ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL advised that Command Chief Master questions about the Code of Military Justice, the non-judicial Sergeant Paul Nelson recently became the command senior enlisted punishment regulation that it will enable, and how it will be leader of the Alaska National Guard, and a hand selected team implemented within the force. are spearheading an initiative to improve the ethical fitness of

the Alaska force. They will be working with the U.S. Department 3:09:18 PM of Defense (DoD) Office of Military Professionalism Office

headed by Navy Rear Admiral Margaret "Peg" Klein, pictured on ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL advised that Command Chief Master slide 10, to help design and teach an "exportable living Sergeant Paul Nelson recently became the command senior enlisted curriculum" on this subject. Adjutant General Hummel offered leader of the Alaska National Guard, and a hand selected team that she intends to take full advantage of DoD assistance as the are spearheading an initiative to improve the ethical fitness of next steps are taken to re-boot, re-fit, and reform the National the Alaska force. They will be working with the U.S. Department Guard. of Defense (DoD) Office of Military Professionalism Office

headed by Navy Rear Admiral Margaret "Peg" Klein, pictured on 3:10:04 PM slide 10, to help design and teach an "exportable living

curriculum" on this subject. Adjutant General Hummel offered CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT PAUL NELSON, Alaska National Guard, said that she intends to take full advantage of DoD assistance as the the Alaska National Guard under the direction of Adjutant next steps are taken to re-boot, re-fit, and reform the National General Hummel, has begun a grass roots initiative to research, Guard. develop, and implement a program of ethical fitness into the

Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA). This 3:10:04 PM initiative will begin in the National Guard and eventually

spread throughout the department led by the non-commissioned CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT PAUL NELSON, Alaska National Guard, said officer corps. It will encompass not only ethics but also a re- the Alaska National Guard under the direction of Adjutant education in the profession of arms with an emphasis on military General Hummel, has begun a grass roots initiative to research, corps values to include character, physical courage, moral develop, and implement a program of ethical fitness into the courage, and selflessness. He listed the members of the team Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (DMVA). This and advised the team is to work directly with the Department of initiative will begin in the National Guard and eventually Defense of the Senior Advisor for Military Professionalism. The spread throughout the department led by the non-commissioned objective is to build a comprehensive plan to begin implementing officer corps. It will encompass not only ethics but also a re- the art of ethical fitness into the DMVA, and to first define education in the profession of arms with an emphasis on military ethical fitness. Military ethics is a subset of professional corps values to include character, physical courage, moral ethics and it exists to be of service to professionals who are courage, and selflessness. He listed the members of the team not themselves specialists in ethics, but have to carry out the and advised the team is to work directly with the Department of task entrusted to the profession as honorably and consciously as Defense of the Senior Advisor for Military Professionalism. The possible. Military ethics is to enable and motivate them to act objective is to build a comprehensive plan to begin implementing appropriately in the discharge of their professional the art of ethical fitness into the DMVA, and to first define obligations. Fitness refers to those things the members of the ethical fitness. Military ethics is a subset of professional National Guard are to maintain themselves in an active and ready ethics and it exists to be of service to professionals who are state, they consist of the four pillars of resiliency, such as not themselves specialists in ethics, but have to carry out the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual fitness. He related task entrusted to the profession as honorably and consciously as this is an ongoing process that never reaches an end state. For possible. Military ethics is to enable and motivate them to act example, a person never reaches a point of physical fitness appropriately in the discharge of their professional wherein they no longer need to exercise. It becomes an enduring obligations. Fitness refers to those things the members of the and positive lifestyle change. Therefore, ethical fitness, National Guard are to maintain themselves in an active and ready following this definition and positive lifestyle example state, they consist of the four pillars of resiliency, such as dictates that an attitude of ethical fitness is incorporated physical, emotional, social, and spiritual fitness. He related into the fiber of both personal and professional lives, and this is an ongoing process that never reaches an end state. For strengthening bonds with each other in the uniform services and example, a person never reaches a point of physical fitness civilian divisions of the Alaska DMVA. He explained that the wherein they no longer need to exercise. It becomes an enduring Alaska team is enhancing the professional development programs and positive lifestyle change. Therefore, ethical fitness, by incorporating ethical fitness into existing curriculum while following this definition and positive lifestyle example also implementing ethical fitness and a review of common dictates that an attitude of ethical fitness is incorporated organizational practices in order to educate the professionals into the fiber of both personal and professional lives, and and re-enforce ethical fitness in practice. In turn, this will strengthening bonds with each other in the uniform services and improve the working environment of soldiers, airmen, and civilian divisions of the Alaska DMVA. He explained that the civilian workforce, and consequently increase efficiency of the Alaska team is enhancing the professional development programs DMVA operations. by incorporating ethical fitness into existing curriculum while

also implementing ethical fitness and a review of common 3:13:02 PM organizational practices in order to educate the professionals

and re-enforce ethical fitness in practice. In turn, this will ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL described the initiative as exciting to improve the working environment of soldiers, airmen, and help improve not just the professionalism, but everyone in the civilian workforce, and consequently increase efficiency of the force. She advised that Command Sergeant Major Richard Hildreth DMVA operations. will be the first ever Alaska National Guard liaison to rural

and tribal communities. She related that he will be key for the 3:13:02 PM success of their rural engagement efforts, having grown up in

Bethel and being a former recruiter, he is uniquely talented to ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL described the initiative as exciting to understand the challenges Alaska's rural population faces to help improve not just the professionalism, but everyone in the participate in the Alaska National Guard and military service. force. She advised that Command Sergeant Major Richard Hildreth

will be the first ever Alaska National Guard liaison to rural ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted that in the interest of time she and tribal communities. She related that he will be key for the would skip [slides 11-13] a discussion about the state side of success of their rural engagement efforts, having grown up in the department, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Bethel and being a former recruiter, he is uniquely talented to Management, the Office of Veterans Affairs who serves Alaska's understand the challenges Alaska's rural population faces to ,000 veterans and their families, and the Alaska Military participate in the Alaska National Guard and military service. Youth Academy.

ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL noted that in the interest of time she 3:15:34 PM would skip [slides 11-13] a discussion about the state side of

the department, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency COLONEL KAREN MANSFIELD, Commander, Alaska Air National Guard, Management, the Office of Veterans Affairs who serves Alaska's directed attention to slide 14, "Air National Guard" and said it ,000 veterans and their families, and the Alaska Military represents how the Air National Guard has evolved over the Youth Academy. nation over the last decade.

3:15:34 PM COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 15, "Air National

Guard (ANG)" and advised that air guardsmen represent COLONEL KAREN MANSFIELD, Commander, Alaska Air National Guard, approximately 30 percent of the total air force and are used as directed attention to slide 14, "Air National Guard" and said it an operational reserve, and the strategic reserve is well represents how the Air National Guard has evolved over the established. The Air National Guard is expected to fill nation over the last decade. approximately 30 percent of the air force deployment taskings

for FY16. COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 15, "Air National

Guard (ANG)" and advised that air guardsmen represent 3:16:50 PM approximately 30 percent of the total air force and are used as

an operational reserve, and the strategic reserve is well COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 16, "Dual Roles of established. The Air National Guard is expected to fill the Alaska Air National Guard" and highlighted that the Air approximately 30 percent of the air force deployment taskings National Guard supports both the federal missions and the state for FY16. missions. The Alaska Air National Guard has forces continually

training, exercise, and deploying for the Commander of Air 3:16:50 PM Pacific Forces as well as Air Combat Command and Mobility

Command, and North Command. Concurrently, it performs state COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 16, "Dual Roles of missions on an as-needed or as-requested basis, most notably and the Alaska Air National Guard" and highlighted that the Air frequently in the form of search and rescue. National Guard supports both the federal missions and the state

missions. The Alaska Air National Guard has forces continually COLONEL MANSFIELD referred to slide 8, and pointed out that the training, exercise, and deploying for the Commander of Air Alaska Air National Guard executes approximately $2.9 million in Pacific Forces as well as Air Combat Command and Mobility state general funds while bringing into the state over $166 Command, and North Command. Concurrently, it performs state million in federal dollars for the federal missions it supports. missions on an as-needed or as-requested basis, most notably and

frequently in the form of search and rescue. 3:17:48 PM

COLONEL MANSFIELD referred to slide 8, and pointed out that the COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 17, "Locations & Alaska Air National Guard executes approximately $2.9 million in Primary Missions" and advised the Alaska Air National Guard state general funds while bringing into the state over $166 supports missions with over 2,100 air guard members in three million in federal dollars for the federal missions it supports. locations. Eielson Air Force Base (Eielson AFB) is the 168th

Wing which previously was the 168th Air Fueling Wing. She 3:17:48 PM explained it was officially re-designated to reflect the

inclusion of the 213th Space Warning Squadron at Clear Air Force COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 17, "Locations & Station (Clear AS). South at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Primary Missions" and advised the Alaska Air National Guard (JBER) is the 176th Wing, one of the most complex organizations supports missions with over 2,100 air guard members in three in the Air Guard, with four primary mission sets to include: locations. Eielson Air Force Base (Eielson AFB) is the 168th strategic and tactical airlift, air defense squadron, and the Wing which previously was the 168th Air Fueling Wing. She rescue triad which includes the Guardian Angels, Rescue explained it was officially re-designated to reflect the Helicopters, and HC-130s that provide the refueling capability inclusion of the 213th Space Warning Squadron at Clear Air Force to those rescue helicopters. Both means also have the standard Station (Clear AS). South at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson supporting units typical to an air force wing which includes: (JBER) is the 176th Wing, one of the most complex organizations civil engineering, security forces, logistics, medical support, in the Air Guard, with four primary mission sets to include: and communications squadrons. The diverse primary mission sets, strategic and tactical airlift, air defense squadron, and the as well as the supporting organizations, can be leveraged for rescue triad which includes the Guardian Angels, Rescue state domestic operational needs. Helicopters, and HC-130s that provide the refueling capability

to those rescue helicopters. Both means also have the standard 3:18:54 PM supporting units typical to an air force wing which includes:

civil engineering, security forces, logistics, medical support, COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 18, "Total Force" and communications squadrons. The diverse primary mission sets, said that the Alaska Air Guard performs many federal mission as well as the supporting organizations, can be leveraged for tasks on a day-to-day basis. In keeping with the DoD's focus state domestic operational needs. and prioritizations on total force integration, the Alaska Air

Guard is a committed total force participant seamlessly 3:18:54 PM deploying active duty airmen to overseas missions and committed

to integrating to high levels here at home. It provides a COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 18, "Total Force" classic guard association of operators and maintainers to the said that the Alaska Air Guard performs many federal mission active duty C-17 strategic air lift mission on JBER through the tasks on a day-to-day basis. In keeping with the DoD's focus 9th Air Lift Squadron. The Alaska Air Guard is unique in the and prioritizations on total force integration, the Alaska Air number of ongoing federal missions being funded and executed, Guard is a committed total force participant seamlessly essentially deployed in place 24 hours per day, seven days per deploying active duty airmen to overseas missions and committed week, and 365 days per year. The Alaska Air Guard tankers sit to integrating to high levels here at home. It provides a alert at Eielson AFB in support of the Alaska NORAD Region (ANR) classic guard association of operators and maintainers to the while the rescue forces provide alert capability to the 11th Air active duty C-17 strategic air lift mission on JBER through the Force [JBER} active duty fighters enabling the NORAD response 9th Air Lift Squadron. The Alaska Air Guard is unique in the and extended training capacity. The defense squadron on JBER is number of ongoing federal missions being funded and executed, on duty 24/7, 365 days per year, maintaining continuous air essentially deployed in place 24 hours per day, seven days per defense threat watch over the Alaskan area of responsibility. week, and 365 days per year. The Alaska Air Guard tankers sit The 213th Space Warning Squadron also executes 24/7, 365 days alert at Eielson AFB in support of the Alaska NORAD Region (ANR) per year, with air guard providing 90 percent of the space while the rescue forces provide alert capability to the 11th Air operators and 100 percent of the Clear Defense Forces for the Force [JBER} active duty fighters enabling the NORAD response Air Force Space Mission. and extended training capacity. The defense squadron on JBER is

on duty 24/7, 365 days per year, maintaining continuous air 3:20:23 PM defense threat watch over the Alaskan area of responsibility.

The 213th Space Warning Squadron also executes 24/7, 365 days COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 19, "At Home" and per year, with air guard providing 90 percent of the space related that it is also busy at home with its domestic response operators and 100 percent of the Clear Defense Forces for the and community support. The Alaska Air National Guard is manned Air Force Space Mission. with a higher percentage of full time guardsmen due to its

expanded federal mission set. It gives the Alaska Air Guard the 3:20:23 PM capacity to leverage both skill sets and functional response in

support of state needs. For example, in 2015, the 168th Medical COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 19, "At Home" and Group participated in a Mission of Mercy for the Fairbanks related that it is also busy at home with its domestic response region treating over 886 patients and providing approximately and community support. The Alaska Air National Guard is manned $850,000 in medical care. Veterans Stand Down, in the same with a higher percentage of full time guardsmen due to its region, assisted 570 veterans with medical services, hygiene expanded federal mission set. It gives the Alaska Air Guard the supplies, food donations, and clothing. The 176th Wing capacity to leverage both skill sets and functional response in supported the largest recurring innovative readiness training support of state needs. For example, in 2015, the 168th Medical operation in the nation, Operation Arctic Care, visiting 16 Group participated in a Mission of Mercy for the Fairbanks villages, delivering medical and dental care to over 3,000 region treating over 886 patients and providing approximately Alaskans and transporting personnel and over 67 tons of cargo. $850,000 in medical care. Veterans Stand Down, in the same In conjunction with the Federal Mission Set, Alaska's guardsmen region, assisted 570 veterans with medical services, hygiene man the rescue coordination center that scrambles the forces supplies, food donations, and clothing. The 176th Wing that go out to take care of Alaska's civil SAR within the state. supported the largest recurring innovative readiness training

operation in the nation, Operation Arctic Care, visiting 16 3:21:46 PM villages, delivering medical and dental care to over 3,000

Alaskans and transporting personnel and over 67 tons of cargo. COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 20, "Deployed" and In conjunction with the Federal Mission Set, Alaska's guardsmen remarked that the deployments keep coming. The Alaska Air man the rescue coordination center that scrambles the forces National Guard's tankers have one of the highest operational that go out to take care of Alaska's civil SAR within the state. tempos with 67 percent of their missions being operational, not

training. In 2015, they deployed over 150 members to Central 3:21:46 PM Command, and off-loaded 2.6 million pounds of fuel and over 328

combat missions. The 176th Wing, the Guardian Angels teams were COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 20, "Deployed" and deployed over 13 months of the last 24 months. The C-17 remarked that the deployments keep coming. The Alaska Air expeditionary crews support multiple rotations logging almost National Guard's tankers have one of the highest operational 4,000 hours while delivering over 29 million pounds of cargo, tempos with 67 percent of their missions being operational, not and moving over 7,000 passengers. The Civilian Engineering and training. In 2015, they deployed over 150 members to Central Security Force Warriors only recently returned from their Command, and off-loaded 2.6 million pounds of fuel and over 328 operation Enduring Freedom commitments. She described the combat missions. The 176th Wing, the Guardian Angels teams were Alaska Air Guardsmen as very busy and "will be just as busy in deployed over 13 months of the last 24 months. The C-17 16." expeditionary crews support multiple rotations logging almost

4,000 hours while delivering over 29 million pounds of cargo, 3:22:38 PM and moving over 7,000 passengers. The Civilian Engineering and

Security Force Warriors only recently returned from their COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 21, "Current and operation Enduring Freedom commitments. She described the Future" and related that the Air National Guard's eyes are on Alaska Air Guardsmen as very busy and "will be just as busy in the future ensuring that it stays vital and relevant to the 16." state and the nation. She reiterated the re-designation of the

8th Wing, while recognizing the inclusion of the Space Mission 3:22:38 PM expanding its organizational construct, the Air National Guard

is looking for ways to help meet the total force tanker COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 21, "Current and requirements in Alaska, as there is more refueling need than Future" and related that the Air National Guard's eyes are on capacity in this state. The goal is to establish an active duty the future ensuring that it stays vital and relevant to the association placing operators and maintainers against its state and the nation. She reiterated the re-designation of the National Guard tankers in conjunction with its current squadron 8th Wing, while recognizing the inclusion of the Space Mission in helping to find a viable solution to that deficit in tanker expanding its organizational construct, the Air National Guard capacity, she said. is looking for ways to help meet the total force tanker

requirements in Alaska, as there is more refueling need than 3:23:17 PM capacity in this state. The goal is to establish an active duty

association placing operators and maintainers against its COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 22, "Health of the National Guard tankers in conjunction with its current squadron Force" and said the professional and personal development of in helping to find a viable solution to that deficit in tanker every airman in the Alaska Air National Guard is a top priority capacity, she said. of the organization to ensure members have skills necessary to

be successful. Towards that goal it has implemented 3:23:17 PM standardized written performance evaluations for its traditional

guardsmen to give them the feedback they need for future COLONEL MANSFIELD directed attention to slide 22, "Health of the development. In addition, it developed a chief master sergeant Force" and said the professional and personal development of development panel to highlight future senior leaders, enlisted every airman in the Alaska Air National Guard is a top priority leaders, in the organization and groom them for advanced of the organization to ensure members have skills necessary to leadership opportunities. Concurrently, it knows that airmen be successful. Towards that goal it has implemented care is always at the forefront of its mission set and should be standardized written performance evaluations for its traditional one of its primary priorities. To that effort, over the past guardsmen to give them the feedback they need for future year it has funded full time chaplain positions in both wings to development. In addition, it developed a chief master sergeant ensure airmen have immediate access to meet their counseling and development panel to highlight future senior leaders, enlisted spiritual wellness needs. She explained that both wings have leaders, in the organization and groom them for advanced hired directors of psychological health professionals that leadership opportunities. Concurrently, it knows that airmen provide short and long term counseling as well as serving as care is always at the forefront of its mission set and should be liaisons with other mental health professionals in both military one of its primary priorities. To that effort, over the past and civilian sectors. year it has funded full time chaplain positions in both wings to

ensure airmen have immediate access to meet their counseling and COLONEL MANSFIELD assured the committee that the Alaska Air spiritual wellness needs. She explained that both wings have National Guard is filled with highly trained and motivated hired directors of psychological health professionals that airmen. As members of Alaska's communities, they go above and provide short and long term counseling as well as serving as beyond in their commitment to serve the nation and Alaska, she liaisons with other mental health professionals in both military remarked. and civilian sectors.

3:24:52 PM COLONEL MANSFIELD assured the committee that the Alaska Air

National Guard is filled with highly trained and motivated COLONEL JOE STREFF, Commander, Alaska Army National Guard, airmen. As members of Alaska's communities, they go above and turned to slide 25, "AKARNG Vision and Mission" and advised its beyond in their commitment to serve the nation and Alaska, she vision and mission statement is relevant to both federal and remarked. state missions, as follows:

3:24:52 PM VISION

A diverse, trusted, and capable organization ready to COLONEL JOE STREFF, Commander, Alaska Army National Guard, conduct Unified Land Operations for the federal turned to slide 25, "AKARNG Vision and Mission" and advised its government and the State of Alaska. vision and mission statement is relevant to both federal and

state missions, as follows: MISSION

Maintain ready units and Soldiers who are available to VISION support the Governor and fellow Alaskans for domestic A diverse, trusted, and capable organization ready to operations while also ready to deploy worldwide in conduct Unified Land Operations for the federal support of the National Military Strategy. government and the State of Alaska.

3:26:06 PM MISSION

Maintain ready units and Soldiers who are available to COLONEL STREFF reminded the committee that the Alaska Army support the Governor and fellow Alaskans for domestic National Guard (AKARNG) and the Alaska Air National Guard (AK operations while also ready to deploy worldwide in ANG) are the state's first responders in cases of emergencies in support of the National Military Strategy. Alaska, together with the Division of Homeland

Security/Emergency Management. 3:26:06 PM

3:26:26 PM COLONEL STREFF reminded the committee that the Alaska Army

National Guard (AKARNG) and the Alaska Air National Guard (AK COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 26, "AKARNG ANG) are the state's first responders in cases of emergencies in Locations" and advised that the Alaska Army National Guard is Alaska, together with the Division of Homeland located in 18 locations around the state, with 17 armories, plus Security/Emergency Management. the soldiers located at Fort Greely. Reductions are faced both

in federal and state funds causing the AKARNG to assess its 3:26:26 PM stationing plan and, subsequently, where it can afford to place

its forces. In the past, it had up to 80 armories around the COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 26, "AKARNG state, but with the changes being faced it is reducing its Locations" and advised that the Alaska Army National Guard is footprint to 18 locations. The benefit to Alaska is the located in 18 locations around the state, with 17 armories, plus reduction in infrastructure costs and the potential to use these the soldiers located at Fort Greely. Reductions are faced both armories and be repurposed into local communities. in federal and state funds causing the AKARNG to assess its

stationing plan and, subsequently, where it can afford to place 3:27:14 PM its forces. In the past, it had up to 80 armories around the

state, but with the changes being faced it is reducing its COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 27, "AKARNG FY15-19 footprint to 18 locations. The benefit to Alaska is the End Strength Authorization" and advised the Army National Guard reduction in infrastructure costs and the potential to use these mandated a reduction in overall end strength nationally from armories and be repurposed into local communities. 8,200 people to 335,000 by FY19. Each state has had to absorb

cuts and Alaska's share is approximately 12 percent of its 2015 3:27:14 PM manning level. Simultaneously, as it was reducing its force

structure, it also had to convert from a battlefield COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 27, "AKARNG FY15-19 surveillance brigade to original support group, which involves End Strength Authorization" and advised the Army National Guard two-fifths of its complete force structure. As the army is mandated a reduction in overall end strength nationally from drawing down, the standards for recruits has gone up which 8,200 people to 335,000 by FY19. Each state has had to absorb creates challenges in Alaska for those who may consider serving cuts and Alaska's share is approximately 12 percent of its 2015 in the armed forces. Currently, 70 percent of the recruit manning level. Simultaneously, as it was reducing its force population ages 18-25 years do not qualify to join the military, structure, it also had to convert from a battlefield nationally. This is further exasperating Alaska with some of surveillance brigade to original support group, which involves the unique challenges that Alaska's youth face, and the AKARNG two-fifths of its complete force structure. As the army is is working with the Alaska State Defense Force to afford as many drawing down, the standards for recruits has gone up which Alaskans as possible the opportunity to serve this great state. creates challenges in Alaska for those who may consider serving

in the armed forces. Currently, 70 percent of the recruit 3:28:28 PM population ages 18-25 years do not qualify to join the military,

nationally. This is further exasperating Alaska with some of COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 28, "Alaska Army the unique challenges that Alaska's youth face, and the AKARNG National Guard 2015 Deployments" and said the Army National is working with the Alaska State Defense Force to afford as many Guard continues to deploy soldiers in support of missions and Alaskans as possible the opportunity to serve this great state. training events around the world. Of note, it continued its

deployment relationship with the Country of Mongolia, the 3:28:28 PM AKARNG's state partnership program country and sent soldiers to

Mongolia to train with 24 other countries in peacekeeping COLONEL STREFF directed attention to slide 28, "Alaska Army operations. The AKARNG sent pilots to fly in Afghanistan and National Guard 2015 Deployments" and said the Army National soldiers to serve in Kosovo, and its soldiers also trained in Guard continues to deploy soldiers in support of missions and South Korea, Cambodia, Australia, and the United States. He training events around the world. Of note, it continued its advised there are 210 Alaska Army National Guardsmen operating deployment relationship with the Country of Mongolia, the the Missile Defense Mission at Fort Greely on watch 24/7, 365 AKARNG's state partnership program country and sent soldiers to day a year, operating as the nation's defenders against Mongolia to train with 24 other countries in peacekeeping intercontinental ballistic missile attack, and these guardsmen operations. The AKARNG sent pilots to fly in Afghanistan and provide a vital link to the defense of our homeland. soldiers to serve in Kosovo, and its soldiers also trained in

South Korea, Cambodia, Australia, and the United States. He 3:29:35 PM advised there are 210 Alaska Army National Guardsmen operating

the Missile Defense Mission at Fort Greely on watch 24/7, 365 SARGEANT MAJOR MARC PETERSEN, State Command, Alaska Army day a year, operating as the nation's defenders against National Guard (AKNRNG), directed attention to slide 29, intercontinental ballistic missile attack, and these guardsmen "Defense Support to Civil Authorities" and advised that its provide a vital link to the defense of our homeland. state missions include emergency response, caring for and

responding to requests by civil authorities for support ranging 3:29:35 PM from flood relief, search and rescue, and emergency housing for

citizens in its armories. The Alaska Army National Guard SARGEANT MAJOR MARC PETERSEN, State Command, Alaska Army helicopters supported the Department of Forestry with 131 hours National Guard (AKNRNG), directed attention to slide 29, on the Mat-Su and Kenai fires last season, and was also involved "Defense Support to Civil Authorities" and advised that its in Operation Colony Glacier with support and recovery. There is state missions include emergency response, caring for and a civil support team with 22 specially trained army and air responding to requests by civil authorities for support ranging guardsmen to assist civil authorities in the case of chemical, from flood relief, search and rescue, and emergency housing for biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive events. The citizens in its armories. The Alaska Army National Guard team stands ready to provide non-emergency assistance to local helicopters supported the Department of Forestry with 131 hours and federal authorities. For example, in support of the Glacier on the Mat-Su and Kenai fires last season, and was also involved Summit it provided military police support to the Anchorage in Operation Colony Glacier with support and recovery. There is Police Department and State Troopers, aviation support to the a civil support team with 22 specially trained army and air United States Secret Service, and refueling support to the guardsmen to assist civil authorities in the case of chemical, President's helicopter Marine One. He advised the guard has biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive events. The helped deliver medical care, build structures and parks, and team stands ready to provide non-emergency assistance to local supply veterinary care throughout Alaska. The innovative and federal authorities. For example, in support of the Glacier readiness training program combines the efforts and skills of Summit it provided military police support to the Anchorage all of the branches of the armed forces to train in their career Police Department and State Troopers, aviation support to the fields while benefiting citizens throughout the United States, United States Secret Service, and refueling support to the he said. President's helicopter Marine One. He advised the guard has

helped deliver medical care, build structures and parks, and 3:31:09 PM supply veterinary care throughout Alaska. The innovative

readiness training program combines the efforts and skills of SARGEANT MAJOR PETERSEN directed attention to slide 30, "State all of the branches of the armed forces to train in their career Partnership Program Alaska - Mongolia" and reiterated that the fields while benefiting citizens throughout the United States, Alaska State Partnership Program country is Mongolia, and the he said. program links the National Guard with the armed forces of a

partner country in a cooperative, mutually beneficial 3:31:09 PM relationship. He advised that this program is administered by

the National Guard Bureau and guided by the State Department SARGEANT MAJOR PETERSEN directed attention to slide 30, "State Foreign Policy Goals, and is executed by the Adjutant General in Partnership Program Alaska - Mongolia" and reiterated that the support of the Combatant Commander and U.S. Chief, National Alaska State Partnership Program country is Mongolia, and the Guard Mission Security Cooperation objectives and Department of program links the National Guard with the armed forces of a the Defense Policy Goals. The National Guard conducts military partner country in a cooperative, mutually beneficial to military engagements and also leverages relationships and relationship. He advised that this program is administered by capabilities to facilitate broader inter-agency and corollary the National Guard Bureau and guided by the State Department engagements spanning military, government, economic, Foreign Policy Goals, and is executed by the Adjutant General in educational, and social spheres, he advised. Additionally, an support of the Combatant Commander and U.S. Chief, National Alaska Army National Guard soldier has served as the bilateral Guard Mission Security Cooperation objectives and Department of affairs and security operations officer, and he lived in Ulong the Defense Policy Goals. The National Guard conducts military Qatar for the past two years serving in the United States to military engagements and also leverages relationships and Embassy, helping facilitate international affairs between the capabilities to facilitate broader inter-agency and corollary United States and Mongolia. engagements spanning military, government, economic,

educational, and social spheres, he advised. Additionally, an 3:32:21 PM Alaska Army National Guard soldier has served as the bilateral

affairs and security operations officer, and he lived in SARGEANT MAJOR PETERSEN directed attention to slide 31, "AKARNG Ulaanbaator, Mongolia for the past two years serving in the Rural Engagement" and explained that the Alaska Army National United States Embassy, helping facilitate international affairs Guard has invited elements of the Command and staff of the Army between the United States and Mongolia. National Guard to rural Alaska to witness the challenges faced

in Alaska's communities in order to grow its ranks in those 3:32:21 PM areas. He related that some of the initiatives include: changes

to the Federal Joint Travel Regulation which allows guardsmen to SARGEANT MAJOR PETERSEN directed attention to slide 31, "AKARNG be reimbursed for travel to drill; and waivers for Alaskans from Rural Engagement" and explained that the Alaska Army National its rural areas to allow them to serve in formations. He Guard has invited elements of the Command and staff of the Army described the Alaska Army National Guard as filled with highly National Guard to rural Alaska to witness the challenges faced trained and motivated soldiers who volunteer to protect and in Alaska's communities in order to grow its ranks in those defend the Constitution of the United States and the State of areas. He related that some of the initiatives include: changes Alaska. It is united in its resolve to be a diverse, trusted, to the Federal Joint Travel Regulation which allows guardsmen to and capable organization ready to accomplish the mission set be reimbursed for travel to drill; and waivers for Alaskans from before them. They hold true to the army values and uphold the its rural areas to allow them to serve in formations. He laws of the state, nation, and military, he said. described the Alaska Army National Guard as filled with highly

trained and motivated soldiers who volunteer to protect and 3:33:30 PM defend the Constitution of the United States and the State of

Alaska. It is united in its resolve to be a diverse, trusted, CO-CHAIR LEDOUX asked Colonel Streff whether he said that 70 and capable organization ready to accomplish the mission set percent of folk's ages 17-25 years were not qualified to serve before them. They hold true to the army values and uphold the in the army. laws of the state, nation, and military, he said.

COLONEL STREFF responded that in the military at large, 70 3:33:30 PM percent of the population of the United States ages 17-25 [are

not qualified to serve in the army]. CO-CHAIR LEDOUX asked Colonel Streff whether he said that 70

percent of folk's ages 17-25 years were not qualified to serve REPRESENTATIVE LEDOUX questioned whether the reason was because in the army. they are not physically in shape or other reasons.

COLONEL STREFF responded that in the military at large, 70 COLONEL STREFF answered that the major factors include physical percent of the population of the United States ages 17-25 [are fitness, but then there are moral issues associated with that, not qualified to serve in the army]. educational problems, such as drop out problems in various

locations. He noted the standards have been raised in the REPRESENTATIVE LEDOUX questioned whether the reason was because military as its force structure has dropped so things are they are not physically in shape or other reasons. becoming competitive for the recruiters.

COLONEL STREFF answered that the major factors include physical 3:34:31 PM fitness, but then there are moral issues associated with that,

educational problems, such as drop out problems in various ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL remarked that not one of the five locations. He noted the standards have been raised in the witnesses today have been in their positions longer than one military as its force structure has dropped so things are year, she opined that the committee can share her optimism in becoming competitive for the recruiters. their expertise, energy, and leadership, and expressed that the

Alaska National Guard is on the rise. 3:34:31 PM

3:35:07 PM ADJUTANT GENERAL HUMMEL remarked that not one of the five

witnesses today have been in their positions longer than one CO-CHAIR COGHILL pointed out that the committee gets to work year, she opined that the committee can share her optimism in with budgetary issues and the experiential issues, but the their expertise, energy, and leadership, and expressed that the partnerships she has built with the United States Army, Air Alaska National Guard is on the rise. Force, Navy, and Coast Guard have been significant. Clearly, he

commented, not only from deployment but to the 24/7 operations 3:35:07 PM of Clear Air Force Base or the Missile Defense, Alaska is now

full on partners both in fighting on the ground and watching CO-CHAIR COGHILL pointed out that the committee gets to work through these devises. He thanked her for taking on the with budgetary issues and the experiential issues, but the responsibility, sharing the new command structure, and that the partnerships she has built with the United States Army, Air committee is looking forward to rubbing shoulders more with her. Force, Navy, and Coast Guard have been significant. Clearly, he

commented, not only from deployment but to the 24/7 operations 3:36:06 PM of Clear Air Force Base or the Missile Defense, Alaska is now

full on partners both in fighting on the ground and watching The committee took an at-ease from 3:36 p.m. to *3:41 p.m. through these devises. He thanked her for taking on the

responsibility, sharing the new command structure, and that the 3:41:47 PM committee is looking forward to rubbing shoulders more with her.

CO-CHAIR COGHILL called the committee back to order. 3:36:06 PM

3:42:36 PM The committee took an at-ease from 3:36 p.m. to *3:41 p.m.

REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL ABEL, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard 3:41:47 PM District, United States Coast Guard, said that in 37 years of

being in uniform, he has never seen collaboration between the CO-CHAIR COGHILL called the committee back to order. other military services, the Coast Guard, the National Guard,

and the state, as efficient as it is in Alaska. He described it 3:42:36 PM as phenomenal. For example, he said, it takes a lot to keep two

MH-60s going for four months in the North Slope and he had to REAR ADMIRAL DANIEL ABEL, Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard get "all that stuff has to go back to Kodiak." He asked the District, United States Coast Guard, said that in 37 years of National Guard whether its load masters would like to practice being in uniform, he has never seen collaboration between the with some odd shaped gear. Adjutant General Hummel agreed, and other military services, the Coast Guard, the National Guard, requested that Lieutenant General Handy submit a memo, of which and the state, as efficient as it is in Alaska. He described it he did. Thereby, the Coast Guard saved five C-130 trips by as phenomenal. For example, he said, it takes a lot to keep two using one of the National Guard's C-17s to get the equipment MH-60s going for four months in the North Slope and he had to back to Kodiak. He described that as collaboration and noted get "all that stuff has to go back to Kodiak." He asked the that the costs for the Coast Guard C-130s, as well as tax National Guard whether its load masters would like to practice payer's money, were saved. with some odd shaped gear. Adjutant General Hummel agreed, and

requested that Lieutenant General Handy submit a memo, of which REAR ADMIRAL ABEL offered that some things have not changed for he did. Thereby, the Coast Guard saved five C-130 trips by the Coast Guard in Alaska, and its mission remains the same using one of the National Guard's C-17s to get the equipment which is: to protect man from the sea - life saving mission; back to Kodiak. He described that as collaboration and noted protect the sea from man - environmental stewardship mission; that the costs for the Coast Guard C-130s, as well as tax and to deny the sea to anyone who would use it as an avenue to payer's money, were saved. cause harm for the nation. There are 44,000 miles of coastline

and over 3.8 million square miles of dangerous and hostile REAR ADMIRAL ABEL offered that some things have not changed for Alaskan waters. He advised that of the Coast Guard's 11 the Coast Guard in Alaska, and its mission remains the same statutory missions, probably the biggest mission it tends to is which is: to protect man from the sea - life saving mission; search and rescue, domestic and international fisheries - making protect the sea from man - environmental stewardship mission; sure it is a fair playing field, aids to navigation, military and to deny the sea to anyone who would use it as an avenue to readiness, environmental response, maritime safety, and homeland cause harm for the nation. There are 44,000 miles of coastline security. On an average day, the Alaska Coast Guard will save and over 3.8 million square miles of dangerous and hostile or assist two people, and those two people will be home with Alaskan waters. He advised that of the Coast Guard's 11 their family due to what the men and women of the Coast Guard statutory missions, probably the biggest mission it tends to is are doing in Alaska every single day. On a given month, 150 search and rescue, domestic and international fisheries - making recreational or commercial boats will be inspected to perform sure it is a fair playing field, aids to navigation, military the prevention side; will service 98 aids to navigation; readiness, environmental response, maritime safety, and homeland investigate 11 pollution incidents; and will monitor in the safe security. On an average day, the Alaska Coast Guard will save shipping of 700 million gallons of fuel out of Alaska. He or assist two people, and those two people will be home with offered that Alaska is blessed with the fact it has a new ocean their family due to what the men and women of the Coast Guard emerging for the first time in 10,000 years, and the Coast Guard are doing in Alaska every single day. On a given month, 150 wants to be sure it is done in a safe and environmentally recreational or commercial boats will be inspected to perform responsible manner. the prevention side; will service 98 aids to navigation;

investigate 11 pollution incidents; and will monitor in the safe 3:45:24 PM shipping of 700 million gallons of fuel out of Alaska. He

offered that Alaska is blessed with the fact it has a new ocean REAR ADMIRAL ABEL stated that since 2007, the number of vessels emerging for the first time in 10,000 years, and the Coast Guard in the Coast Guard's area of responsibility in the Arctic have wants to be sure it is done in a safe and environmentally doubled, and the number of transits through the Bering Strait responsible manner. have doubled as well. Thankfully, he noted, the Arctic is not

new to the Coast Guard, in that since 1967 in the days of 3:45:24 PM Captain "Hell Roaring Mike" Healy the Coast Guard has been in

Alaska. The U.S. Revenue Cutter Service (USRCS), the Coast REAR ADMIRAL ABEL stated that since 2007, the number of vessels Guard's predecessors were the first federal presence in Alaska in the Coast Guard's area of responsibility in the Arctic have after Alaska became a U.S. Territory, and those missions have doubled, and the number of transits through the Bering Strait continued. Since 2008, the Coast Guard has made a push to the have doubled as well. Thankfully, he noted, the Arctic is not Arctic, since 2012 it has been called "Arctic Shield." Arctic new to the Coast Guard, in that since 1967 in the days of Shield pushes a number of assets to the North Slope and the Captain "Hell Roaring Mike" Healy the Coast Guard has been in missions for 2015 were to perform Coast Guard mission activities Alaska. The U.S. Revenue Cutter Service (USRCS), the Coast in the Arctic to enhance Arctic domain awareness. He referred Guard's predecessors were the first federal presence in Alaska to Lieutenant General Handy's discussion of Arctic domain after Alaska became a U.S. Territory, and those missions have awareness and maritime domain awareness, and noted he is blessed continued. Since 2008, the Coast Guard has made a push to the that Lieutenant General Handy views him as his maritime Arctic, since 2012 it has been called "Arctic Shield." Arctic component commander. Rear Admiral Abel's view of the Arctic and Shield pushes a number of assets to the North Slope and the view of the maritime is what he provides Lieutenant General missions for 2015 were to perform Coast Guard mission activities Handy, and there is no formal DoD line between them because it in the Arctic to enhance Arctic domain awareness. He referred is all about partnerships here. He pointed out that to Lieutenant General Handy's discussion of Arctic domain "Partnerships" was the third goal of Arctic Shield 15, to awareness and maritime domain awareness, and noted he is blessed enhance their abilities for preparedness, prevention, and that Lieutenant General Handy views him as his maritime response in the Arctic. Last summer they had two helicopters component commander. Rear Admiral Abel's view of the Arctic and forward deployed to Deadhorse, Alaska, and had major cutters view of the maritime is what he provides Lieutenant General with deployed helicopters on board, and expressed that there is Handy, and there is no formal DoD line between them because it nothing more mobile and reactive than a Coast Guard cutter with is all about partnerships here. He pointed out that an embarked helicopter because it can move where the action is "Partnerships" was the third goal of Arctic Shield 15, to every single summer. He turned to the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter enhance their abilities for preparedness, prevention, and Healy, their medium ice breaker, and pointed out that it response in the Arctic. Last summer they had two helicopters performed a parameter patrol all the way around the edge of "our forward deployed to Deadhorse, Alaska, and had major cutters exclusive economic zone." The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy also with deployed helicopters on board, and expressed that there is performed an unescorted lone trip to the North Pole which was nothing more mobile and reactive than a Coast Guard cutter with historic because this was the first time a U.S. surface vessel an embarked helicopter because it can move where the action is made that trip. He advised that a C-130 from Kodiak flew all every single summer. He turned to the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter the way to the North Pole and returned safely to prove it could Healy, their medium ice breaker, and pointed out that it be done, testing navigation as well as communication. performed a parameter patrol all the way around the edge of "our

exclusive economic zone." The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy also 3:47:30 PM performed an unescorted lone trip to the North Pole which was

historic because this was the first time a U.S. surface vessel REAR ADMIRAL ABEL said their Medium Endurance Cutter (WMEC) made that trip. He advised that a C-130 from Kodiak flew all USCGC Alex Haley was working in the Chukchi Sea and Beaufort the way to the North Pole and returned safely to prove it could Sea. They conducted maritime patrols and had a buoy tender in be done, testing navigation as well as communication. the Arctic putting down research buoys. The Coast Guard worked

with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 3:47:30 PM and he related that 5-10 percent of the Arctic is charted to

contemporary standards. He asked the committee to imagine REAR ADMIRAL ABEL said their Medium Endurance Cutter (WMEC) getting on an Alaska Airlines flight and the captain announcing USCGC Alex Haley was working in the Chukchi Sea and Beaufort that he/she knew where 5-10 percent of the mountains are, and Sea. They conducted maritime patrols and had a buoy tender in pointed out that this is what a captain does when he takes a the Arctic putting down research buoys. The Coast Guard worked ship north of the Bering Strait. The Coast Guard is working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), closely with NOAA to be certain they can chart and do it safely. and he related that 5-10 percent of the Arctic is charted to

contemporary standards. He asked the committee to imagine 3:48:03 PM getting on an Alaska Airlines flight and the captain announcing

that he/she knew where 5-10 percent of the mountains are, and REAR ADMIRAL ABEL explained that mobile, seasonal, and adaptive pointed out that this is what a captain does when he takes a are the watch words and the strength of the Coast Guard presence ship north of the Bering Strait. The Coast Guard is working in the Arctic. He advised that the University of Alaska, closely with NOAA to be certain they can chart and do it safely. Anchorage (UAA) earned a Center of Excellence grant from the

Department of Homeland Security to work on the Arctic Domain 3:48:03 PM Awareness Center (ADAC). They will continue work both fusing

science with sensors and satellite imagery with a community REAR ADMIRAL ABEL explained that mobile, seasonal, and adaptive based observer network. He explained that the whole idea is to are the watch words and the strength of the Coast Guard presence tap into the knowledge of those that have lived on the North in the Arctic. He advised that the University of Alaska, Slope, along the Arctic coast for generations to find out that Anchorage (UAA) earned a Center of Excellence grant from the walruses have just shown up for the first time, which is Department of Homeland Security to work on the Arctic Domain unusual. This is unusual, he said. He continued that the Awareness Center (ADAC). They will continue work both fusing storms are more severe than in the past, there are erosion science with sensors and satellite imagery with a community problems, and to fuse that information so there is traditional based observer network. He explained that the whole idea is to knowledge as well as science. The Coast Guard has also teamed tap into the knowledge of those that have lived on the North with community engagement, and he said not only is a marine Slope, along the Arctic coast for generations to find out that inspector qualified to inspect a tank, they are also qualified walruses have just shown up for the first time, which is to teach Kids Don't Float, which is an in school program unusual. This is unusual, he said. He continued that the explaining water safety. He noted that they reached 3,600 storms are more severe than in the past, there are erosion children last year with Kids Don't Float and remarked that a problems, and to fuse that information so there is traditional child wearing a lifejacket ended up saving the lives of his knowledge as well as science. The Coast Guard has also teamed father and his father's friend. Alaskans can be proud of the with community engagement, and he said not only is a marine fact that the number of teenagers wearing life jackets is much inspector qualified to inspect a tank, they are also qualified higher than the Lower 48 because, he pointed out, for 10 years to teach Kids Don't Float, which is an in school program they have taught 9-10 year olds they have to wear life jackets explaining water safety. He noted that they reached 3,600 when underway on a boat. Those children are now 19-20 year olds children last year with Kids Don't Float and remarked that a and the return on investment is there, he said. child wearing a lifejacket ended up saving the lives of his

father and his father's friend. Alaskans can be proud of the 3:50:23 PM fact that the number of teenagers wearing life jackets is much

higher than the Lower 48 because, he pointed out, for 10 years REAR ADMIRAL ABEL explained that the Coast Guard is doing its they have taught 9-10 year olds they have to wear life jackets best to harmonize all operations in the Arctic Maritime System when underway on a boat. Those children are now 19-20 year olds to be certain they are well synchronized with traditional uses and the return on investment is there, he said. of the Arctic and are cognizant that they do not want to scare

away the whale or walrus or caribou. He described it as more 3:50:23 PM about food security and cultural security. A beneficial Arctic

Waterway Safety Committee was created, patterned after a Harbor REAR ADMIRAL ABEL explained that the Coast Guard is doing its Safety Committee, which fused subsistence hunters with industry best to harmonize all operations in the Arctic Maritime System and communities, and from each group asked its priorities for to be certain they are well synchronized with traditional uses the Coast Guard in a maritime transportation system in the of the Arctic and are cognizant that they do not want to scare Arctic. He noted a Port Access Route Study proposed a route away the whale or walrus or caribou. He described it as more that goes from Unimak Pass up around Little Diomede, and an exit about food security and cultural security. A beneficial Arctic that goes left to right going either to the Russian side or the Waterway Safety Committee was created, patterned after a Harbor U.S. side. The Coast Guard has heavily hydro-graphed it, which Safety Committee, which fused subsistence hunters with industry is bottom mapping, and is looking to get that approved by the and communities, and from each group asked its priorities for International Maritime Organization to then bring some structure the Coast Guard in a maritime transportation system in the to the extremely narrow pass. Arctic. He noted a Port Access Route Study proposed a route

that goes from Unimak Pass up around Little Diomede, and an exit He noted that the distance of the Bering pass is [the same as] that goes left to right going either to the Russian side or the between Washington D.C. and Baltimore. It is 44 miles, shallows U.S. side. The Coast Guard has heavily hydro-graphed it, which up to 100-150 feet, with 17,000 Bowhead Whales traveling through is bottom mapping, and is looking to get that approved by the there twice per year, and 4 million nesting birds migrating International Maritime Organization to then bring some structure through there. He described that it has always been a to the extremely narrow pass. wilderness superhighway that is becoming a transportation

highway system, and how to harmonize that as well. He noted that the distance of the Bering pass is [the same as]

between Washington D.C. and Baltimore. It is 44 miles, shallows 3:51:58 PM up to 100-150 feet, with 17,000 Bowhead Whales traveling through

there twice per year, and 4 million nesting birds migrating REAR ADMIRAL ABEL referred to Polar Code, and advised the through there. He described that it has always been a International Maritime Organization, which dictates rules for wilderness superhighway that is becoming a transportation all mariners around the world, has passed the Polar Code. He highway system, and how to harmonize that as well. described it as a "game changer" because this is the first time

ever there is an international standard for ships that operate 3:51:58 PM in the Arctic." He explained that it will dictate ship

construction, training - because the person must be a qualified REAR ADMIRAL ABEL referred to Polar Code, and advised the ice pilot, it will dictate discharge restrictions, carriage International Maritime Organization, which dictates rules for requirements, and all of those things. The United States Coast all mariners around the world, has passed the Polar Code. He Guard will enforce the Polar Code, and it is making sure it is described it as a "game changer" because this is the first time there and ready to perform inspections and be certain everyone ever there is an international standard for ships that operate abides by the new rules. in the Arctic." He explained that it will dictate ship

construction, training - because the person must be a qualified 3:52:37 PM ice pilot, it will dictate discharge restrictions, carriage

requirements, and all of those things. The United States Coast REAR ADMIRAL ABEL referred to the "lure of the Arctic" in that Guard will enforce the Polar Code, and it is making sure it is everyone wants to go to the Arctic. He pointed to the cruise there and ready to perform inspections and be certain everyone liner, Crystal Serenity, wherein 1,700 people will travel from abides by the new rules. Seward to Anchorage to New York City across the top, which is

the first of its kind. He expressed that the cost will be 3:52:37 PM $20,000-$120,000 per person, it sold out in two days, and that

this is the wave of the future. Therefore, he noted, the Coast REAR ADMIRAL ABEL referred to the "lure of the Arctic" in that Guard is making sure it is prepared, together with the everyone wants to go to the Arctic. He pointed to the cruise communities and the state, to respond to 1,700 people which may liner, Crystal Serenity, wherein 1,700 people will travel from be in distress in the Arctic. The Coast Guard is also working Seward to Anchorage to New York City across the top, which is with Transport Canada, the cruise industry, the Canadian Coast the first of its kind. He expressed that the cost will be Guard to be certain everyone is harmonized and ready to deal $20,000-$120,000 per person, it sold out in two days, and that with anything that might occur. Arctic Chinook is a joint U.S. this is the wave of the future. Therefore, he noted, the Coast Coast Guard and U.S. Northern Command sponsored exercise to Guard is making sure it is prepared, together with the conduct a live field training exercise of the Arctic SAR communities and the state, to respond to 1,700 people which may Agreement that will exercise a response construct applicable be in distress in the Arctic. The Coast Guard is also working across the Arctic region. with Transport Canada, the cruise industry, the Canadian Coast

Guard to be certain everyone is harmonized and ready to deal 3:53:41 PM with anything that might occur. Arctic Chinook is a joint U.S.

Coast Guard and U.S. Northern Command sponsored exercise to REAR ADMIRAL ABEL noted that closer to home and highly conduct a live field training exercise of the Arctic SAR successful is the "Round Turn," focusing on the safety of Agreement that will exercise a response construct applicable commercial fishing vessel activities in Alaska, and that over 50 across the Arctic region. percent of the nation's fish are caught in Alaska's waters. In

October 2015, a decal became mandatory, and the decal mandates 3:53:41 PM that certain safety equipment must be on board. [He held up a

decal during the briefing.] Rear Admiral Abel then commended REAR ADMIRAL ABEL noted that closer to home and highly the professionalism of the fishermen in Alaska because the successful is the "Round Turn," focusing on the safety of equipment was already on board. He stressed that the Coast commercial fishing vessel activities in Alaska, and that over 50 Guard continues to serve Alaska, safeguard the public, and percent of the nation's fish are caught in Alaska's waters. In protect the environment and its resources. He pointed out that October 2015, a decal became mandatory, and the decal mandates on the quality of life side, Alaskan families are proud to live that certain safety equipment must be on board. [He held up a here. He turned to the Alaska Marine Highway System and advised decal during the briefing.] Rear Admiral Abel then commended that 80 percent of Coast Guard members use the ferries to get to the professionalism of the fishermen in Alaska because the their assignments distributed all around the state and maritime. equipment was already on board. He stressed that the Coast Interestingly, he remarked, his challenge is getting the folks, Guard continues to serve Alaska, safeguard the public, and whose tour has ended, to leave Alaska because they want to protect the environment and its resources. He pointed out that continue to serve in Alaska. He extended that he has to give on the quality of life side, Alaskan families are proud to live other folks the chance to stand watch on the Last Frontier. here. He turned to the Alaska Marine Highway System and advised

that 80 percent of Coast Guard members use the ferries to get to 3:55:36 PM their assignments distributed all around the state and maritime.

Interestingly, he remarked, his challenge is getting the folks, REAR ADMIRAL ABEL mentioned there was an issue with cancellation whose tour has ended, to leave Alaska because they want to fees with regard to the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS). continue to serve in Alaska. He extended that he has to give Thanks to Captain Mike Neussl, Deputy Commissioner, Marine other folks the chance to stand watch on the Last Frontier. Highway System, if a person is military on orders they can book

a reservation with no cancellation fee up to 60 days before the 3:55:36 PM actual move, which will not be a problem for military members.

He pointed out that the Alaska Marine Highway System Division REAR ADMIRAL ABEL mentioned there was an issue with cancellation was extremely responsive in ascertaining that active duty fees with regard to the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS). members are moved in and out of places they need to be this Thanks to Captain Mike Neussl, Deputy Commissioner, Marine summer. Highway System, if a person is military on orders they can book

a reservation with no cancellation fee up to 60 days before the 3:56:14 PM actual move, which will not be a problem for military members.

He pointed out that the Alaska Marine Highway System Division CO-CHAIR COGHILL commented that for all of Alaska's highway was extremely responsive in ascertaining that active duty systems, whether it be marine or plowing the road between members are moved in and out of places they need to be this Anchorage and Fairbanks, they are struggling under the economic summer. pressure, but the committee will keep that in mind. He thanked

the Coast Guard for keeping Alaska's water safe for fishermen 3:56:14 PM and those traveling in Alaska's waters, and related that it is a

new world to him, but he is learning more about the lives the CO-CHAIR COGHILL commented that for all of Alaska's highway Coast Guard saves and the inspections. He described it as systems, whether it be marine or plowing the road between fascinating, from Kids Don't Float all the way to the maritime Anchorage and Fairbanks, they are struggling under the economic issues to the Arctic traversing. pressure, but the committee will keep that in mind. He thanked

the Coast Guard for keeping Alaska's water safe for fishermen 3:57:03 PM and those traveling in Alaska's waters, and related that it is a

new world to him, but he is learning more about the lives the CO-CHAIR LEDOUX commented that as a former resident of Kodiak, Coast Guard saves and the inspections. He described it as she does not think there is anyone in Kodiak who has not been fascinating, from Kids Don't Float all the way to the maritime touched by the Coast Guard in some respect. She further issues to the Arctic traversing. commented that legislative time isn't always as prompt as

military time, and she congratulated him because the briefing 3:57:03 PM may have started out on legislative time, but he finished on

military time. CO-CHAIR LEDOUX commented that as a former resident of Kodiak,

she does not think there is anyone in Kodiak who has not been 3:57:46 PM touched by the Coast Guard in some respect. She further

commented that legislative time isn't always as prompt as CO-CHAIR COGHILL thanked all of the briefing witnesses and asked military time, and she congratulated him because the briefing them to advise those under their command [the committee's] may have started out on legislative time, but he finished on recognition of gratitude. As a salute to the witnesses as military time. commanders and for those under their command, for the whole

range of issues the members get to see, there is no doubt it is 3:57:46 PM a partnership that also extends between the people of Alaska,

the people of America, the Department of Defense, and the many CO-CHAIR COGHILL thanked all of the briefing witnesses and asked ways they deal with it, and the committee is grateful. He them to advise those under their command [the committee's] acknowledged that the economics of Alaska are somewhat shaky due recognition of gratitude. As a salute to the witnesses as to oil, but the future of Alaska is definitely certain that it commanders and for those under their command, for the whole has a geographical place in the world. The state does the best range of issues the members get to see, there is no doubt it is it can to be certain the highways and byways stay open, and that a partnership that also extends between the people of Alaska, the men and women serving in the military services are kept the people of America, the Department of Defense, and the many healthy, safe, and productive. ways they deal with it, and the committee is grateful. He

acknowledged that the economics of Alaska are somewhat shaky due 3:59:23 PM to oil, but the future of Alaska is definitely certain that it

has a geographical place in the world. The state does the best ADJOURNMENT it can to be certain the highways and byways stay open, and that

the men and women serving in the military services are kept There being no further business before the committee, the Joint healthy, safe, and productive. Armed Services Committee meeting was adjourned at 3:59 p.m.

3:59:23 PM

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business before the committee, the Joint Armed Services Committee meeting was adjourned at 3:59 p.m.