Remembering Martin Luther King, Jr.
We honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who remains a beacon of hope and an unwavering advocate for justice. Dr. King’s life was a testament to the power of community service and the profound impact of helping others. He reminded us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”
As we reflect on his teachings, let us renew our commitment to serving our communities with compassion and empathy using the national theme of “Excellence in Action.”
Whether it's lending a helping hand to a neighbor, volunteering time and resources to those in need, or standing up for the rights of the marginalized, every act of kindness strengthens the fabric of our society. His legacy is embedded in the culture and values of our society and the military. We encourage fellow service members, friends and family to use our many talents and connections to continue to help in our communities.
In the spirit of Dr. King, let us strive to build a world where every individual is treated with dignity and respect, and where the power of collective action can create lasting change. Together, we can carry forward his vision of a more just, equitable, and loving world.
Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Garrison Command Team
Energy efficiency projects underway to improve installation readiness and training support
DEVENS RESERVE FORCES TRAINING AREA, Massachusetts – The garrison initiated $2.4 million in infrastructure projects to improve energy efficiency for two important tenants on the installation.
A new fan-walled supply-exhaust system is expected to save at least half of the initial cost to the upgraded air handling system in Building 3413, which houses the Northeastern Army Reserve Intelligence Support Center - Devens Detachment, according to Directorate of Public Works Director George Markt.
Members of the NEARISC provide intelligence services to support all branches of Reserve and Active components of the joint force.
This is the first of three similar projects which will be implemented in the building over the next few years, Markt said.
Keunta Epps, resource efficiency manager for the garrison, said the upgrade reduced the energy needs of the system, which exchanged one single, 20-horsepower fan to four 2.5-horsepower fans.
The initial estimated savings for fan usage was as high as 50-60% during max load. Greater savings are expected at reduced part loads. It also improved air distribution and air quality with updated energy recovery ventilator controls to economize and use the unit more efficiently, Epps said.
“These projects will be executed throughout the year and represents Devens RFTA’s collective dedication to implementing sustainable practices that improve operational readiness and comply with Army Climate Strategy standards,” Epps said.
The project was the first of the three energy construction projects, valued at about $2.4 million initially. They were funded through the Energy/Utilities Modernization funds awarded to the installation during the 2024 Fiscal Year, which ended Sept. 30.
Other new ongoing projects include adding exterior lighting and controls to the 3400 area and installing a high efficiency chiller replacement to the Headquarters of the 25th Marine Regiment.
Markt said these projects are still in the process of being funded.
The efforts nest with U.S. Installation Management Command’s goal to prioritize infrastructure and optimizing utilities to ensure quality facilities and meet the needs of the joint force in the future.
Wishing You a Merry and Safe Christmas Season!
Team:
As the year comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and hard work throughout the year. Your contributions are what make Devens RFTA and the Reserve Component a success, and we couldn’t do it without you.
This holiday season, let’s take time to rest, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge for the exciting year ahead. As always, your safety is our top priority. Whether you’re traveling, enjoying festivities, or simply relaxing at home, please keep these safety tips in mind:
• Stay alert on the roads: Drive safely, especially during winter weather or busy travel times.
• Celebrate responsibly: Enjoy the holiday spirit while prioritizing safety.
• Stay healthy: Remember to rest and take care of your well-being.
We wish you and your families a joyous, peaceful, and above all, safe holiday season. Thank you for being an invaluable part of our journey this year.
Happy holidays and best wishes for a bright New Year!
Warm regards,
CSM Francisco J. Gonzalez
Garrison Command Sergeant Major
Devens Reserve Forces Training Area
Remember the service and sacrifice of veterans
Check in on your family, friends and neighbors
Good morning, team:
As we approach Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to honor the dedication, courage, and sacrifice of the veterans among us, as well as those throughout our nation. Veterans Day is a reminder of the invaluable contributions and sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, who have worked selflessly to protect the freedoms we hold dear.
To those on our team who have served or have family members who served—thank you. Your commitment and bravery are deeply appreciated, and your presence enriches our team in ways words can’t fully capture.
Please join me in recognizing and expressing our gratitude for all veterans, not only on this day but throughout the year. Let’s continue to support and honor their service and sacrifice and take time to reflect on the invaluable contributions they make.
Thank you, and let’s celebrate our veterans with the respect and gratitude they deserve.
Respectfully,
CSM Francisco J. Gonzalez
Garrison Command Sergeant Major
Devens Reserve Forces Training Area
Scheduled Closings for Inventory
at Devens RFTA ASP in FY25
Click on link above to view or download the scheduled closings.
Mosquitos: more than merely annoying
Public Health warns of mosquito-borne viruses
By 66th Medical Squadron Public Health
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE, are
two mosquito-borne diseases currently of concern in Massachusetts.
Both diseases are transmitted to humans after being bitten by infected mosquitoes.
West Nile Virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.
As of Aug. 24, Massachusetts has had two positive cases of West Nile Virus, and 262 mosquito positive
samples across the state.
Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. While only about
one in five people will develop symptoms, it's important to note that there are no vaccines to prevent or
medicines to treat the virus.
EEE is a severe virus that is spread to humans from the bite of an infected mosquito, with very few cases
reported each year.
As of Aug. 24, Massachusetts has had one positive case of EEE, and 69 mosquito positive samples.
Symptoms include fever, headache, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, behavioral changes, and
drowsiness. The virus can cause ongoing neurological problems for survivors and can be fatal. There are
no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat EEE.
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of contracting either mosquito-borne viruses.
Tips include use insect repellent on adults with at least 30% DEET. DEET products should not be used on
infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children.
Additionally, individuals should wear long sleeves and pants, eliminate standing water around homes,
and stay indoors during peak mosquito activity (sunset and sunrise).
Anyone who may have recently been bit by mosquitos and are experiencing any symptoms, and have
underlying health condition or weakened immune system, are encouraged to seek medical help.
Additionally, for those who have traveled to a region with known outbreaks or to an area with a
moderate – Critical risk level, should seek medical attention.
Those living outside of Hanscom AFB should be aware of your county's curfews and park restrictions as
Bristol, Plymouth, Norfolk, and Middlesex Counties have varying curfews and restrictions. Stay up to date
www.mass.gov.
The Risk levels for West Nile Virus and EEE for Hanscom AFB and surrounding areas respectively, are as
follows: Lexington: Remote, Low; Bedford: Low, Moderate; Concord: Low, Low; Lincoln: Low, Low
For further information, contact Preventive Medicine Flight/Public Health Element at usaf.hanscom.66-
abg.list.publichealth@health.mil.
Remembering Sept. 11, 2001
Today marks the 23rd anniversary of September 11, 2001.
The President of the United States of America proclaimed September 11, 2024, as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. He is calling upon all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States to display the flag of the United States at half-staff on Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance in honor of the individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
A day that forever changed our nation. On this solemn day, we remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. These events serve as a powerful reminder of the threats we face and the importance of our mission in defending our homeland.
The impact of 9/11 is felt deeply across our country, and it has reinforced the critical need for a strong and ready Reserve force. Our Reserve units have been integral in responding to crises, supporting active-duty forces, and ensuring the safety and security of our nation. Your dedication and commitment to our mission are vital in maintaining the readiness and resilience of our forces.
Every day, your efforts contribute to the defense of our homeland. Whether you are training, supporting operations, or providing essential services, your work matters. It is through your unwavering dedication that we continue to uphold the values and freedoms that define our nation.
As we remember the lives lost and honor the heroes who emerged on that day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to our mission.
Together, we stand strong, ready to face any challenge that comes our way.
Respectfully,
LTC Carlos M. Poventud-Estrada
Devens Reserve Forces Training Area
Garrison Commander
Devens! Enhancing the experience!