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Local community extends support to mission

  • Published
  • By Army Maj. Stephen T. Messenger
  • 72nd FA Bde Operations Officer
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  Rolling down the street in a 12-ton mine resistant ambush protected all-terrain vehicle is commonplace for Soldiers in Afghanistan, but for civilians living around Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst it's the experience of a lifetime.

Just ask John Hood, Burlington County Military Affairs Committee trustee, who recently visited the 72nd Field Artillery Brigade here.

During his M-ATV driving test, Hood expressed that he was highly impressed with the strength of the nation to conceive, test and field MRAPs to the fighting force abroad.

"Learn, earn, return," Hood insisted as his motto.

After years of military service and local business success, he stated it is now his time to give back and support the U.S. military. As a BCMAC trustee, his mission is to promote, maintain and foster a harmonious and mutual understanding of the civilian and military roles operating iat JB MDL, according to the BCMAC website.

Additionally, as an honorary commander of the 621st Contingency Response Wing at the joint base, Hood promotes strengthening the community-military relationship in and around the local area.

During lunch at the dining facility, Hood shared insights of how the BCMAC supports the troops through multiple programs like Warfighter and Family Readiness Center's Hearts Apart Program, monthly military appreciation nights in the county, and Armed Forces Freedom Rides. His "learn, earn, return" concept defines his role in acting as a liaison between county-based military commanders and their civilian-community counterparts.

Following lunch, Staff Sgts. Michael Wellhoff and Peter Martin from the 1st Battalion, 309th Training Support Regiment brought Hood out for a test drive in the M-ATV.

"It's just like driving a large truck, only louder and bulletproof," instructed Wellhoff.

Next, Hood visited the Army National Guard Joint Training and Training Development Center where he successfully fired multiple heavy weapon systems from the Engagement Skills Trainer and engaged simulated enemies in various combat scenarios.

"These are very real scenarios - the training value is enhanced because you can see where the shots land," Hood commented after firing the M4 assault rifle simulation.

As a conscientious community supporter, Hood was especially impressed with 1st Sgt. Mark Rizzo's comments that the JT2DC has the capability to produce more than 270 days of internal electrical power through its installed solar panels. As a business owner and community member, Hood believed this was a step in the right direction in relation to green energy solutions.

Moreover, Hood was most enthusiastic with the caliber of servicemembers and training he observed. As he left for the day, he expressed his appreciation for the visit, in particular for supporting Burlington County and keeping people informed.

"The training enablers in place here and the ability and capability of the trainers and Soldiers alike are a credit to you all and the joint base as a whole - getting the word out will certainly strengthen support."