FORT DETRICK, Md. – Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen, deputy chief of staff of G-9, toured Fort Detrick, Maryland, last week to observe critical infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements that are essential for Army readiness and the welfare of its service members and their families.
"Our Soldiers are our most valuable asset, and it's imperative that we provide them with the best possible support systems," Vereen said. "These quality-of-life visits provide us with firsthand knowledge of the Soldier experience, which is critical to informed decision-making, reaffirming our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our brave men and women in uniform."
The itinerary highlighted significant facilities, such as privatized Army housing and Child Youth and School Services, which are crucial for the health, safety and satisfaction of Army families. These visits allow Army leaders to better understand the living and working conditions of Soldiers, which directly informs decisions that impact the welfare of the Army community.
At the Child Youth and School Services facilities, leaders witnessed firsthand the range of resources available to support military families, including educational programs, child care services and recreational activities. Additionally, the tour of privatized Army housing demonstrated the Army's commitment to provide comfortable and secure living environments that foster a sense of community and belonging among service members and their families.
A key aspect of the visit was the review of innovative technologies at the medical waste incinerator, showcasing the Army's commitment to environmental stewardship and the health and safety of its personnel.
This tour of Fort Detrick underscored the Army's unwavering commitment to Soldier readiness and quality of life initiatives. By gaining firsthand knowledge of the available infrastructure and support systems, Army leaders can make informed decisions to further enhance these critical areas, ultimately strengthening the readiness and resilience of the force.
Vereen emphasized the comprehensive approach to readiness, stating, "Soldier readiness goes beyond physical fitness and combat training. It encompasses every aspect of their lives, including housing and family support. This visit underscores the Army's holistic approach to readiness, ensuring our Soldiers can focus on their mission with the peace of mind that their families are well cared for."
Fort Detrick plays a vital role in maintaining critical capabilities and supporting the projection of warfighter capabilities while ensuring the security of people, formations and equipment. The visit highlighted the Army's dedication to environmental protection; the safety, health and welfare of Soldiers and their families; and the preservation of training lands and ecosystems.
As the Army continues its readiness and modernization efforts, the insights from such visits are invaluable. They affirm the Army's commitment to improving the living and working conditions of its service members and underscore the importance of taking all necessary and risk-informed actions to protect and enhance the lives of those on Army installations. Through these efforts, the Army upholds its commitment to high standards of quality of life, readiness and environmental stewardship to ensure a robust and resilient force for the future.
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