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Blackanthem Military News
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Last Updated:
Oct 11, 2008 - 6:10:10 AM |
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Blackanthem Military News
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| Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, speaks to servicemembers July 7 during an 'All Hands' call at the Hope Chapel at Camp Victory, Iraq. Mullen, who spoke to more than 300 servicemembers in grades E5 and below during the meeting, said he and those in Washington D.C. learn best about policies they make from garnering feedback from troops in meetings such as these. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jeremy D. Crisp) |
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, held an 'All Hands' meeting with junior servicemembers at the Hope Chapel here July 7 in order to address concerns and garner "education" from those in grades E5 and below.
Mullen spoke of his initiatives and took questions from more than 300 servicemembers in attendance.
"It's important to hear what's on their minds," Mullen said of the 'All Hands' call. He said policymakers like him learn best from servicemembers in the field.
Mullen answered questions ranging from combating suicide and post traumatic stress disorder, the effectiveness of the Army Combat Uniform to the growing of military forces and how the presidential elections would affect that growth.
One Soldier in attendance felt the meeting was sincere, and said he was glad he was able to meet the chairman and hear what he had to say.
"It shows people are paying attention to our needs," said Sgt. Joseph A. Baker, a member of the Arkansas Army National Guard's 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team stationed here. "I really thought what he said was heartfelt, and I really enjoyed being able to come and listen."
Mullen stressed the importance of leadership during the meeting and said, "when the chips are down, I've never seen a tough situation handled better than by good leadership."
He reiterated the point when a Soldier stood up and asked a question concerning suicides and mental health issues in the Army.
When treating PTSD and suicides, "we have to get rid of the stigma" of getting treatment, Mullen said.
"When I talk to leaders, I tell them that they have to lead the way to the mental health clinic," Mullen said. "If they don't, the message is it isn't okay," to seek treatment.
Mullen then took time to hand out 'coins of excellence' and take photographs with those in attendance following the question and answer session.
"I'm delighted with the progress all of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airman and Marines are making here," he said.
The chairman is visiting several camps in Iraq on his United Services Organization Tour as he travels with New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora and a group of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:
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| A U.S. Army Soldier stands up to ask a question of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, during an 'All Hands' call July 7 at the Hope Chapel on Camp Victory, Iraq. More than 300 servicemembers attended the meeting, which was designed to garner feedback from troops in grades E5 and below. Mullen said of talking to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines in attendance, "It's important to hear what's on their minds." |
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| Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, speaks to servicemembers July 7 during an 'All Hands' call at the Hope Chapel at Camp Victory, Iraq. Mullen, who spoke to more than 300 servicemembers in grades E5 and below during the meeting, said he and those in Washington D.C. learn best about policies they make from garnering feedback from troops in meetings such as these. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jeremy D. Crisp) |
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