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.
