You may have seen them wearing fatigues and patrolling around Penn Station or John F. Kennedy International Airport or even out on the waters of the New York Harbor -- they're the Joint Task Force Empire Shield (JTFES). The JTFES is a staff of highly trained service members who are ready to detect, deter, and prevent potential terrorists operations in the New York City Metropolitan Area.
"Members of the JTFES need to stay in shape in order to be effective in their mission," said Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Edwin Mondezie, Jr., talking about his staff.
To stay in shape many of them are frequent users of the Fort Hamilton Sports and Fitness Center at the U.S. Army Garrison at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, N.Y., where the JTFES is headquartered.
This fitness center was recently renovated into a first class fitness facility by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. The Corps expanded the size of the center by making use of extra space in the basement and filled this area with modern fitness equipment.
"I'm happy to see the expansion of this modern fitness facility come to fruition," said New York District Commander Col. John R. Boulé. "The project, financed by American Reinvestment Recovery Act stimulus funds, not only made good use of wasted space, but also will go a long way to boost the morale and welfare of service members and their families residing at Fort Hamilton and other parts of New York City."
The 3,300 square-foot space will allow 75 additional individuals to use the gym, preventing overcrowding during the gym's peak hours.
The new space includes an aerobics and boxing room, a stationary bicycle "Spinning" area, 35 machines for cardiovascular and strengthening workouts, such as treadmills and elliptical, which are all in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and a large stock of free weights. The space is surrounded by mirrored walls and 14 47-inch flat screen TVs.
"A fully equipped gym is important to maintain readiness," said Army Staff Sgt. Clayton Craig, a personnel noncommissioned officer with JTFES who uses the gym three times a week and uses all of the equipment.
Members of the JTFES agree that the additional workout space is welcomed. Craig said, "The best part of the renovation is the additional space there is now, especially to stretch."
Army Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Esquilin, noncommissioned officer-in-charge for logistics for JTFES, whose uses the gym up to five times a week, agreed, "There's so much space to move, no waiting so I can get in and out."
He added, "Having this facility is important because some Soldiers can't afford an outside gym and having one available on post provides more motivation to improve physical fitness."
Dr. JoAnne Castagna is a Public Affairs Specialist (Writer) for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. She can be reached at joanne.castagna@usace.army.mil Follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/writer4usacenyc.
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