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  • November 4, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Nov. 1 from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident in Hico, Texas.

    Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara, 30, whose home of record is listed as Lake Worth, Texas, entered active duty service Aug. 22, 2002, as an air defense battle management system operator. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood, since April 2012.

    Ferrara deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 2003 to August 2003, January 2005 to January 2006 and March 2007 to June 2008. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from July 2012 to April 2013.

    Ferrara's awards and decorations include a Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, three Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, four Overseas Service Ribbons, and NATO Medal.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • October 29, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Staff Sgt. Jason Allan Hicks

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Oct. 25 from a terminal illness in Copperas Cove, Texas.

    Staff Sgt. Jason Allan Hicks, 40, whose home of record is listed as North Miami, Fla., entered active duty service in January 1994 as an infantryman. He was assigned to the Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood, since March 2012.

    Hicks deployed in support of Operation New Dawn from August 2010 to August 2011 and Operation Iraqi Freedom from September 2008 to May 2009, January 2005 to January 2006, January 2003 to August 2003. He deployed in support of Kosovo operations from February 1999 to September 1999. He also deployed in Support of Operation Joint Endeavor from December 1995 to December 1996.

    Hicks' awards and decorations include eight Army Commendation Medals, two Joint Service Achievement Medal, four Army Achievement Medals, six Army Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, five Iraq Campaign Medals with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral two, Army Service Ribbon, three Overseas Service Ribbons, NATO Medal, U.S. Army Basic Recruiter Badge (Silver), Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, and the Driver and Mechanic badge.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

     

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas - Twenty-two Soldiers will be honored at a formal retirement ceremony 10 a.m. Sept. 27 at III Corps Headquarters building here.

    The senior retiree at the ceremony is Chief Warrant Officer Renita A. Harvey, Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 29 years of service.

    Others being honored include:

    Sgt. Maj. Nelson J. Castro, III Corps, Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Norma Dealcala, 69th Air Defense Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Jimmy D. Temples, 504th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 26 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Allan J. Rhaburn, United States Army Operational Test Command, Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Mark Jordan, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan. He will retire after 27 years of service.

    Master Sgt. James E. Payton, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Michael S. Banks, 48th Chemical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Gerardo Torres, Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation, Fort Benning, Ga. He will retire after 22 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Johnny R. Hicks, Jr., Division West, 1st Army, Fort Hood. He will retire after 30 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Anthony G. Ketch, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Patrick McMahon, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Gabriel D. Maxwell, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Cassandra A. Douglas, 210th Fires brigade, Camp Casey, South Korea. She will retire after 26 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class James D. Bryant, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Chandler S. Pelican, III Corps, Fort Hood. He will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Keith C. Royster, 25th Infantry Division, Hawaii. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Pamela D. Jones, 420th Engineer Brigade, Bryan, Texas. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Javier Popoca, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Rayetta I. Cole, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 23 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Michael A. Chance, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas. He will retire after 20 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Anthony J. Damato, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 22 years of service.

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The III Corps and Fort Hood Equal Opportunity Office and 3rd Cavalry Regiment will host a Hispanic Heritage Month observance from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Sept. 24 in the Phantom Warrior Center here.

    All Fort Hood Soldiers, Families and civilians are invited to help celebrate the culture and accomplishments Hispanic Americans have brought to our nation.

    Attendees will enjoy music from local Hispanic Band Noche Kandela and remarks from guest speaker retired Col. Raul G. Villaronga, former mayor of Killeen.

    The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988.

    The day of Sept. 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18 respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30-day period.

    In addition to the event at the Phantom Warrior Center, all Fort Hood dining facilities will serve Hispanic cuisine.

    Media desiring to cover this event should call III Corps Public Affairs Office at (254) 287-0106 or (254) 287-9993 no later than 4 p.m. Sept. 23.

    On the day of the event, media should meet in the south-side parking lot of the Fort Hood visitor's center at 1 p.m.

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The National POW/MIA Day Ceremony will be observed 9 a.m. Sept. 20 at the Ex-POW Memorial located in front of Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.

    The ceremony will honor former prisoners of war and military personnel who are still classified as "missing in action," with area veterans' organizations participating in a special wreath-laying ceremony.

    Media organizations desiring to cover the ceremony must register with the III Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs Office Press Center no later than 4 p.m. on Sept. 19 here.  

    The gate time for media will be at 8 a.m. Sept 20. Media should meet at the south-side parking lot of the Fort Hood visitor's center.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials will close West Range Road, Elijah Road and Old Georgetown Road 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sept. 28-29 in support of the annual Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce's sponsored Texas State Road Race Championship.

    For the past few years, the Texas State Championship has been held at Ford Hood in conjunction with Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce with a course completely closed to traffic. The course is a 33-mile loop of scenic paved roads filled with challenging climbs and descents.

    The course is entirely on Fort Hood's west range area. Free-range wild cattle may appear on the course without warning. The start line will be on the south side of Old Georgetown Road near the intersection of Elijah Road.

    Onsite registration and results will be in the general vicinity of the start. Parking will be in the large crushed rock field on the Southwest corner of the intersection. For more information on the race, visit http://www.theracingpost.us/Fort%20Hood%20Challenge.htm.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The 1st Medical Brigade will host a mass casualty exercise 9 a.m.  Sept. 12 at their training area on 19th Street and Murphy Road here.

    The purpose of the exercise is to train brigade medical professionals on medical evacuation and on responding and managing mass casualty situations.

    There will be several subject matter experts on hand for interviews.

    Media representatives interested in covering the event, should register here and arrive at the Fort Hood visitor’s center no later than 8:30 a.m.

[ /7]

Featured News

  • November 4, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Nov. 1 from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident in Hico, Texas.

    Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara, 30, whose home of record is listed as Lake Worth, Texas, entered active duty service Aug. 22, 2002, as an air defense battle management system operator. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood, since April 2012.

    Ferrara deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 2003 to August 2003, January 2005 to January 2006 and March 2007 to June 2008. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from July 2012 to April 2013.

    Ferrara's awards and decorations include a Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, three Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, four Overseas Service Ribbons, and NATO Medal.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

Headlines

  • November 4, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Nov. 1 from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident in Hico, Texas.

    Sgt. 1st Class Miguel A. Ferrara, 30, whose home of record is listed as Lake Worth, Texas, entered active duty service Aug. 22, 2002, as an air defense battle management system operator. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood, since April 2012.

    Ferrara deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 2003 to August 2003, January 2005 to January 2006 and March 2007 to June 2008. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from July 2012 to April 2013.

    Ferrara's awards and decorations include a Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, three Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, four Overseas Service Ribbons, and NATO Medal.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • October 29, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Staff Sgt. Jason Allan Hicks

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Oct. 25 from a terminal illness in Copperas Cove, Texas.

    Staff Sgt. Jason Allan Hicks, 40, whose home of record is listed as North Miami, Fla., entered active duty service in January 1994 as an infantryman. He was assigned to the Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood, since March 2012.

    Hicks deployed in support of Operation New Dawn from August 2010 to August 2011 and Operation Iraqi Freedom from September 2008 to May 2009, January 2005 to January 2006, January 2003 to August 2003. He deployed in support of Kosovo operations from February 1999 to September 1999. He also deployed in Support of Operation Joint Endeavor from December 1995 to December 1996.

    Hicks' awards and decorations include eight Army Commendation Medals, two Joint Service Achievement Medal, four Army Achievement Medals, six Army Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, five Iraq Campaign Medals with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral two, Army Service Ribbon, three Overseas Service Ribbons, NATO Medal, U.S. Army Basic Recruiter Badge (Silver), Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, and the Driver and Mechanic badge.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

     

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas - Twenty-two Soldiers will be honored at a formal retirement ceremony 10 a.m. Sept. 27 at III Corps Headquarters building here.

    The senior retiree at the ceremony is Chief Warrant Officer Renita A. Harvey, Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 29 years of service.

    Others being honored include:

    Sgt. Maj. Nelson J. Castro, III Corps, Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Norma Dealcala, 69th Air Defense Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Jimmy D. Temples, 504th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 26 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Allan J. Rhaburn, United States Army Operational Test Command, Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Mark Jordan, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan. He will retire after 27 years of service.

    Master Sgt. James E. Payton, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 25 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Michael S. Banks, 48th Chemical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Gerardo Torres, Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation, Fort Benning, Ga. He will retire after 22 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Johnny R. Hicks, Jr., Division West, 1st Army, Fort Hood. He will retire after 30 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Anthony G. Ketch, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Patrick McMahon, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Gabriel D. Maxwell, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Cassandra A. Douglas, 210th Fires brigade, Camp Casey, South Korea. She will retire after 26 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class James D. Bryant, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Chandler S. Pelican, III Corps, Fort Hood. He will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Keith C. Royster, 25th Infantry Division, Hawaii. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Pamela D. Jones, 420th Engineer Brigade, Bryan, Texas. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Javier Popoca, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Rayetta I. Cole, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. She will retire after 23 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Michael A. Chance, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas. He will retire after 20 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Anthony J. Damato, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 22 years of service.

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The III Corps and Fort Hood Equal Opportunity Office and 3rd Cavalry Regiment will host a Hispanic Heritage Month observance from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Sept. 24 in the Phantom Warrior Center here.

    All Fort Hood Soldiers, Families and civilians are invited to help celebrate the culture and accomplishments Hispanic Americans have brought to our nation.

    Attendees will enjoy music from local Hispanic Band Noche Kandela and remarks from guest speaker retired Col. Raul G. Villaronga, former mayor of Killeen.

    The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988.

    The day of Sept. 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18 respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30-day period.

    In addition to the event at the Phantom Warrior Center, all Fort Hood dining facilities will serve Hispanic cuisine.

    Media desiring to cover this event should call III Corps Public Affairs Office at (254) 287-0106 or (254) 287-9993 no later than 4 p.m. Sept. 23.

    On the day of the event, media should meet in the south-side parking lot of the Fort Hood visitor's center at 1 p.m.

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The National POW/MIA Day Ceremony will be observed 9 a.m. Sept. 20 at the Ex-POW Memorial located in front of Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.

    The ceremony will honor former prisoners of war and military personnel who are still classified as "missing in action," with area veterans' organizations participating in a special wreath-laying ceremony.

    Media organizations desiring to cover the ceremony must register with the III Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs Office Press Center no later than 4 p.m. on Sept. 19 here.  

    The gate time for media will be at 8 a.m. Sept 20. Media should meet at the south-side parking lot of the Fort Hood visitor's center.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials will close West Range Road, Elijah Road and Old Georgetown Road 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sept. 28-29 in support of the annual Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce's sponsored Texas State Road Race Championship.

    For the past few years, the Texas State Championship has been held at Ford Hood in conjunction with Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce with a course completely closed to traffic. The course is a 33-mile loop of scenic paved roads filled with challenging climbs and descents.

    The course is entirely on Fort Hood's west range area. Free-range wild cattle may appear on the course without warning. The start line will be on the south side of Old Georgetown Road near the intersection of Elijah Road.

    Onsite registration and results will be in the general vicinity of the start. Parking will be in the large crushed rock field on the Southwest corner of the intersection. For more information on the race, visit http://www.theracingpost.us/Fort%20Hood%20Challenge.htm.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The 1st Medical Brigade will host a mass casualty exercise 9 a.m.  Sept. 12 at their training area on 19th Street and Murphy Road here.

    The purpose of the exercise is to train brigade medical professionals on medical evacuation and on responding and managing mass casualty situations.

    There will be several subject matter experts on hand for interviews.

    Media representatives interested in covering the event, should register here and arrive at the Fort Hood visitor’s center no later than 8:30 a.m.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who was found unresponsive in her barracks room Aug. 4 here. 

    Pfc. Lisa Christine Salzman, 27, whose home of record is listed as Buffalo, N.Y., entered the military in May 2012 as a small arms artillery repairer. She was assigned to 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood, since January 2013.

    Salzman's awards and decorations includes the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

    Circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at Forthoodpresscenter.com

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Thomas Rheinlander, Fort Hood public affairs officer, released the following statement outlining afternoon court-martial events Aug. 6.

    "Four additional witnesses testified this afternoon in the case of the United States versus Major Nidal Hasan. 

    A fellow member of the local mosque testified to a final conversation he had with Hasan after services on the morning of November 5, whereby Hasan said goodbye and stated he was going on a journey.

    Several hours later he was seen by a neighbor, just before he was alleged to have appeared at the SRP site on Fort Hood.

    Retired Staff Sergeant Alonzo Lunsford testified to being shot seven times by Hasan, and praised three fellow SRP employees for rendering medical aid under gunfire.

    Michelle Harper, a civilian employee, testified to watching a soldier, (Pfc.) Michael Pearson shot.  As she escaped she witnessed the shootout between Officer Kimberly Munley and Major Hasan.

    Court is in recess until 9 a.m. Aug. 7."

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Thomas Rheinlander, Fort Hood public affairs officer, released the following statement outlining morning court-martial events Aug. 6.

    This is the first trial day of the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan. Hasan is accused of 13 separate capital offenses, specifically, the premeditated murder of 12 Soldiers and one retired Soldier in addition to the wounding of 31 others.

    The military trial process is a deliberate one. It is intended to ensure that all accused are given a fair trial.

    The military justice system predates the Constitution, and the proceedings are based on statutes and the Constitution which require a jury panel hear all capital offenses. A defendant may not plead guilty to a capital offense and in this way, the military criminal justice process ensures a fair trial is provided.

    The governments’ morning opening statement detailed the alleged events of the afternoon of Nov. 5, 2009. Prosecuting attorneys opened with a description of events beginning with the purchase of a firearm, a notification that Hasan would soon deploy, and ended with the shooting of fellow Soldiers at the Soldier Readiness Center.

    Acting as his own counsel, Hasan presented a brief opening statement in which he indicated the evidence would show he was the shooter. He further stated that he realized during the war that he eventually found himself “on the wrong side”, and he switched sides, considering himself a Mujahedeen. Hasan offered apologies for the mistakes he made in this endeavor.

    Eight witnesses have testified for the government thus far. They presented evidence of the purchase of a weapon and frequent practice at a local shooting range. Witnesses further testified that Hasan had been selected to deploy in October 2009. They also testified that Hasan gave away all of his possessions shortly before the shooting.

    Court recessed for lunch at 1 p.m. and Hasan’s prayers, and the government will continue to present witnesses and evidence from 2:30-5 p.m.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood Family Housing officials are hosting its annual National Night Out event 5-8 p.m. Aug. 6 at Hood Stadium.

    Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by FHFH and the Directorate of Emergency Services, residents are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and join their neighbors in celebration of America’s Night Out Against Crime.

    In its 30th year, NNO is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and lastly, to send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and are fighting back.

    The night’s activities include Billy the Bad Guy, DWI simulators, rollover convincer, McGruff the Crime Dog, National Knight, as well as live entertainment from the Ivory Summit Band and the Harker Heights Cheerleaders. In addition, Hood Directorate of Public Works will facilitate a Box Car Derby for children. 

    Media interested in covering National Night Out at  Fort Hood Stadium should contact Nieomi King at (254) 289-7244 to arrange a meeting time at the Visitor’s Center.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge (Col.) Tara Osborn ruled in a pretrial hearing Aug. 2 that the government may introduce Internet searches on the Taliban and jihad conducted by Maj. Nidal M. Hasan in the days and hours before his alleged attacks on fellow service members here.  

    In order to establish a timeline of progressive radicalization, the government requested the introduction of Hasan's academic presentations in defense of suicide bombing, his interest in Sgt. Hasan Akbar, and presentations about soldiers conflicted about their military service because of their religion, when that conflict also resulted in crime.  The judge deferred ruling on this motion until the government presents evidence at trial to put the evidence into context.

    The prosecution asked the judge for permission to enter Military Police Officer Mark Todd’s testimony in the Article 32 hearing in lieu of testimony during the trial. The prosecution’s request was denied by the judge. The judge initially denied the prosecution's request, but said the parties could offer more evidence to establish Todd was medically unavailable to testify.

    Hasan joined in a motion with Fox News to compel the government to allow him to have an on-camera interview by the media.  The judge ruled this was not a matter within the purview of the court and denied ruling on the motion. 

    In other matters, the judge clarified with Hasan that he only plans to call two witnesses during the trial. She also entered into evidence several stipulations of fact and stipulations of expected testimony from subject matter experts.

    At the end of the hearing, she restated her ground rules for the procedures to be followed during trial.

    The judge told Hasan that he could testify on his own behalf but could not testify during his opening statements if he chose to make one.

    The panel is scheduled to convene at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 5 to allow time to conduct additional questioning in the event a current panel member becomes unavailable. The first day of testimony in the court-martial remains scheduled for 9 am. Aug. 6.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On Aug. 5 and 6, satellite trucks should report at 6 a.m. to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 6-7 A.M. 

    NOTE: Only those media outlets already preregistered for the trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • August 1, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Sgt. Peter Joseph See

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died of an apparent gunshot wound July 25 in Hyattsville, Md.

    Sgt. Peter Joseph See, 39, whose home of record is listed as Glendale, Ariz., entered active-duty service in August 1993 as a Paralegal Specialist.

    He was assigned Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Chemical Battalion, 48th Chemical Brigade, Fort Hood, since April 2012.

    See deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from February 2004 to August 2004 and from April 2007 to June 2008.

    See's awards and decorations include two Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, five Army Good Conduct Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star, National Defense Service Medal, Kosova Campaign Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, and Driver and Mechanic Badge.

    Circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Military Judge (Col.) Tara Osborn denied use of three alleged e-mails between Hasan and Anwar al-Awlaki by the government in opening statements. 

    In addition, government prosecutors asked the judge to reconsider a previous motion to preadmit this evidence, but Osborn again denied the motion, saying she would wait to determine the admissibility of this evidence until she hears testimony at trial putting the evidence in context. 

    Other matters discussed today were the admissibility of photographic and video evidence, which were granted by Osborn, and the admissibility of 3 audio 911 calls recorded during the incident on Nov. 5, 2009.  A request for an order limiting public statements made by either the government or defense not related directly to matters presented in court or upcoming court hearings was denied.

    The next pre-trial Article 39a hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Aug. 2 here.

    The panel is scheduled to convene at 9 a.m. Aug. 5 to allow time to conduct additional questioning in the event a current panel member becomes unavailable. The first day of testimony in the court-martial remains
    scheduled for 9 am. Aug. 6.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On Aug. 2, 5 and 6, satellite trucks should report at 6 a.m. to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 6-7 A.M. 

    NOTE: Only those media outlets already preregistered for the trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Military Judge (Col.) Tara Osborn required government lawyers to explain the relevance of using a photo of Sgt. Hasan K. Akbar, autopsy photos, crime-scene video, 911-call recordings, and the law enforcement dash-camera video as evidence in the court-martial. 

    The judge ruled the government may not use any photos of the deceased and also may not use a crime scene video during opening statements.

    Hasan, representing himself, stated he did not wish for too many autopsy photos to be “paraded” as he said he was concerned for the dignity of the deceased.
     
    No other rulings were made at this hearing. 
     

    The next pretrial hearing will be held 2:30 p.m. July 31 here.

    The panel is scheduled to convene on Aug. 5 to allow time to conduct additional questioning in the event a current panel member becomes unavailable. The first day of testimony in the court-martial remains scheduled for Aug. 6.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On July 31, satellite trucks should report at 11:30 a.m to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 12:30 p.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 11:30 A.M.-12:30 P.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas - Fifteen Soldiers will be honored at a formal retirement ceremony 10 a.m. July 26 at III Corps Headquarters building here.

    The senior retiree at the ceremony is Lt. Col. Robert B. Rodefer, Jr., 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 29 years of service.

    Others being honored include:

    Maj. Nicole Harrell, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. She will retire after 20 years of service.

    Capt. Jozef R Szymczyk, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Fort Hood. He will retire after 20 years of service.

    Chief Warrant Officer 3 Lionel C. Marco III, 434th Field Artillery Brigade, Fires Center of Excellence, Fort Sill, Okla. He will retire after 27 years of service.

    Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony L. Barnes, 83rd Chemical Battalion, Fort Stewart, Ga. He will retire after 30 years of service.

    Sgt. Maj. Antonio Barnes, 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 32 years of service.

    Master Sgt. Anthony S. Ortiz, 479th Field Artillery Brigade, First Army, Division West, Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Scottie Roberts, Cadet Command, Fort Worth, Texas. He will retire after 26 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Isaac A. Romero, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.  He will retire after 26 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Lynette S. Jones, 16th Military Police Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C. She will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class James R. Perry, Jr., 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 23 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Dwight A. Hoffenden, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 24 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Tracey L. Franklin, 504th Battlefield Support Brigade, Fort Hood. He will retire after 21 years of service.

    Sgt. 1st Class Augustus Bostick, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 20 years of service.

    Staff Sgt. Michael R. Fleet, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood. He will retire after 22 years of service.

    Media desiring to cover the event are requested to call III Corps PAO for gate time.

  • SPC Yosbel Perez

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died of injuries resulting in a motorcycle accident July 20 in Austin, Texas.

    Spc. Yosbel Perez, 26, whose home of record is listed as Miami, Fla., entered active-duty service in October 2006 as a motor transport operator.

    Perez arrived at Fort Hood October 2012 and was currently assigned to 115th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood.

    Perez deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from July 2007 to September 2008 and Operation Enduring Freedom from April 2011 to April 2012.

    Perez’s awards and decorations include three Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medal, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge and Driver and Mechanic Badge.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • Spc Christopher Heinz

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died of an apparent drowning July 14 at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Salado, Texas.

    Pfc. Christopher Kent Heinz, 25, whose home of record is listed as Lockport, N.Y., entered active-duty service in January 2012 as a combat engineer.  

    He was assigned to Company C, 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, in May 2012.

    Heinz's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

  • CORRECTION: The next hearing is 2:30 p.m. July 25 here.

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Military Judge (Col.) Tara Osborn heard arguments for motions related to evidence and witnesses July 18 in the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan.

    The judge established Hasan had sufficient access to resources to prepare his defense and instructed Hasan on how to properly conduct his opening statement. 

    Osborn ruled that the government is not allowed to use an FBI video during their opening statement. 

    Speaking at the request of Hasan, stand-by counsel Lt. Col. Kris Poppe argued that the government must provide a written summary of the testimony of all victim family members the government wishes to examine. The judge withheld ruling on the matter until the next scheduled hearing at 2:30 p.m. July 24 here. 

    The panel will convene on Aug. 5 to allow time to conduct additional questioning in the event a current panel member becomes unavailable. 

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On July 24, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 11:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 12:30 p.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 11:30 A.M.-12:30 P.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas –The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), will hold a regional grief seminar for adults and a Good Grief Camp for children from 3:45 - 4:30 p.m. July 20 at the Spirit of Fort Hood Chapel.  More than 300 people are expected to attend; interviews will be available with adults who have lost loved ones serving in the military, and with Bonnie Carroll, the founder and chairperson of TAPS.

    MEDIA RSVP REQUIRED
    Media seeking to attend this event should RSVP by 4 p.m. July 19 and contact Capt. Angel Jackson [email protected] .   Media should plan to arrive at the main gate entrance for Fort Hood at 3:15 p.m. July 20.

     For more information visit  www.taps.org or call toll-free (800) 959-TAPS. 

  • July 16, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Pfc. Dustin Billy Cole

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died of an apparent gunshot wound July 14 in Killeen, Texas.

    Pfc. Dustin Billy Cole, 24, whose home of record is listed as Talihina, Okla., entered active-duty service in October 2008 as a combat engineer.

    He was assigned to 584th Engineer Company, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, since February 2009.

    Cole deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from January 2010 to January 2011 and from February 2012 to February 2013.

    Cole’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge and Driver and Mechanic Badge.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • July 16, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Pfc. Jackson Cole Taylor-Smith

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died of an apparent drowning at Lake Waco in Waco, Texas, July 13.

    Pfc. Jackson Cole Taylor-Smith, 21, whose home of record is listed as Kansas City, Mo., entered active duty service in April 2011 as an indirect fire infantryman.

    He arrived at Fort Hood August 2011 and was currently assigned to Troop F, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, since February 2013.

    Taylor-Smith’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- In a brief session to hear remaining arguments, three final court-martial panel members were selected in U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan here.  

    The court-martial panel now consists of 13 senior Army officers to include nine colonels, three lieutenant colonels and one major.

    Two of the panel members are female and 11 are male. The highest ranking officer is a female colonel and therefore acts as the president of the board 

    Trial is set for Aug. 6.

    Routine Article 39A hearings will continue between now and the trial. 

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    The next Article 39A hearing is at 2:30 p.m. July 18. 

    On July 18, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 11:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 12:30 p.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 11:30 A.M.-12:30 P.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- In the case of U.S. v. Nidal M. Hasan, six additional panel members were questioned July 15 by the Judge, and counsel for both the government and defense.

    Three members were challenged for cause by the government with no objection from Hasan. However, the judge, Col. Tara Osborn, withheld ruling on the challenges.

    Panel selection will continue at 9 a.m. July 16 here.

    The panel remains at 10 members. At least 13 are required to be seated prior to the start of trial Aug. 6.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On July 16, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7:15 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 6:30-7:15 A.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • July 10, 2013 Panel selection continues in Major Hasan court martial Ten panel members selected
    FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, nine panel members were individually questioned July 10 by both the government and the defense to assess their suitability as jurors.
     
    During jury panel questioning, Hasan was twice instructed by Judge Col. Tara Osborn to refrain from his line of questioning when it began to appear that he was entering testimony and not asking questions as an attorney. 
     
    The judge reminded panel members who were asked these questions that the accused is innocent until proven guilty. 
     
    Hasan then focused his questions on what panel members knew of Sharia law and Islam. 
     
    In the afternoon session, Hasan recalled a previously questioned panel member to question him once again on his thoughts regarding Islam.
     
    Subsequently, four members were excused from duty after the government counsel challenged them for cause. Hasan delcined to challenge any members remaining.
     
    The panel now consists of ten members. At least thirteen are required to be seated prior to the start of trial Aug. 6.
     
    Six additional panel members will be brought in at 11 a.m. July 15.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On July 15, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 8:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 9:30 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 8-9:15 A.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • July 10, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Dallas Keas

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died from a terminal illness in Temple, Texas July 5.

    Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Dallas Keas, 44, whose home of record is listed as Bixby, Okla., entered active duty service in July 2007 as an air defense enhanced early warning operator. He was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood, since November 2012.

    Keas deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 2009 to February 2010.

    Keas' awards and decorations include three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Driver and Mechanic Badge.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at forthoodpresscenter.com.

  • Judge Tara Osborn and government counsel posed general panel questions to 20 potential panel members assembled July 9 at Fort Hood in the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan. 

    Hasan asked no general questions of the panel. Six members were excused for cause, and the remaining 14 panel members will be asked more specific questions beginning 9 a.m. July 10 by both sides. 

    Hasan continued to represent himself pro se with his stand-by counsel available.

    Osborn confronted Hasan on his recent release of documents to the media in violation of a court order.  She reminded him that repeated violations of court rules and orders may result in him being represented by counsel.

    The trial, set to begin Aug.  6, may last as short as one month, and potentially as many as several months.   

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On July 10, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 6-7 A.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

     

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court-martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 11:30 a.m. July 9 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here. Jury panel selection will begin at 2:30 p.m. July 9.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings in the morning and then begin jury panel selection in the afternoon.

    On July 9, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 8 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 9 a.m.

    REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD CHECK IN AT 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 9-10 A.M.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- In another pretrial hearing in the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, July 2, Hasan asked Judge Col. Tara Osborn for a three day continuance to allow him time to evaluate whether he will hire a new attorney, former Attorney General William Ramsey Clark.

    Judge Osborn denied the request, stating that Hasan has seven days before trial begins on July 9 to determine whether he will hire a new lawyer to assist in his defense.  She denied any request for an additional continuance based on a request for new counsel. 

    Osborn cited the multiple changes Hasan has made in his defense counsel, having already been represented by John Galligan, in addition to his current stand-by defense counsel, and having fired them all, now acting pro se.   

    Hasan further refused to enter a plea, so the court entered a plea on his behalf of "not guilty."  

     In other matters, voir dire questions were reviewed and all questions related to the "defense of others" were stricken. 

    Multiple motions were also addressed, to include motions previously considered by Judge Gregory Gross related to prosecutorial misconduct, disqualification of the Staff Judge Advocate, a set aside of Congressional legislation, and an objection that this trial is being tried as a capital case without having first been taken before a grand jury.  All motions were reconsidered by Judge Osborn and denied. 

    Jury panel selection will begin at 2:30 p.m. on July 9.

    The accused is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.

  • NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court-martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 10 a.m. July 2 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings. In addition, Hasan is expected to enter his plea.

    On July 2, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 7 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 8 a.m.

    Reporters and photographers should check in at 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 7:30-8:30 A.M.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – During a pretrial hearing in the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn ruled on several pending motions to include the Government’s request for the court to conduct group Voir Dire.  Without any objection from Hasan, Osborn ruled that both parties would be allowed to conduct group Voir Dire and to individually question each jury panel member. 

    Hasan also requested that Dr. Jeffery Frederick, jury panel selection expert, be present next to him while Hasan questions panel members. 

    Additionally, both the government and Hasan are required to present each other with their proposed Voir Dire questions by June 28. 

    The government’s motion to present a crime-scene video during Voir Dire was denied, pending the Government’s ability to remove repetitive imagery.  Hasan had no objection, but supported the judge’s proposal to remove repetitive images. 

    Osborn further ruled that the government is restricted in the use of some e-mail evidence pending proof that the value of such evidence outweighs potential prejudice.  However, use of Private 1st Class Francheska Velez’s statement, “My baby, my baby” will be allowed. 

    Finally, Hasan removed approximately 16 of his Voir Dire questions.  The next hearing will be held on 10 a.m. July 2. Hasan will enter a plea at that time.

    The accused is presumed innocent until or unless he’s proven guilty. 

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The III Corps and Fort Hood senior commander issued the following statement referencing the Fort Hood impact from the June 24 Army announcement of force reductions based on Army strategy and fiscal reductions required by the Budget Control Act of 2011:

    "The Army and Fort Hood's leadership deeply appreciates the Central Texas community's unwavering support to our Soldiers and their Families during the last 12 years of war," Maj. Gen. Anthony Ierardi, III Corps and Fort Hood senior commander, said.

    "Today, the Army Chief of Staff announced reductions and adjustments in Army Force Structure based on the Defense Department's strategic guidance and budget cuts mandated by the 2011 Budget Control Act," he said. "These reductions are not related to sequestration. By the end of 2017, the Army will reduce to 490,000 Soldiers from a wartime high of 570,000 -- a 14 percent reduction in Army active component end strength.

    "The Army is apportioning brigade combat team and end strength reductions across the force based on a deliberate quantitative and qualitative analysis, and input solicited at community listening sessions," he said. "Accordingly, Fort Hood may experience a net loss of approximately 2,900 active component military positions by the end of Fiscal Year 2017 --  a seven percent reduction in the number of Soldiers at Fort Hood. This includes the inactivation of the 4th BCT, 1st Cavalry Division, and several other non-BCT formations.

    "The Army will reinvest significant portions of inactivated units to achieve the reorganization of our brigade combat teams which will make them more versatile, agile and capable by adding a third maneuver battalion and by adding engineers and artillery capacity.

    "Fort Hood will remain an essential power projection platform and home to multiple major operating force units and force generating capabilities. Fort Hood will continue to provide superior training facilities, infrastructure and
    support services to our units, Soldiers and families," Ierardi said.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 10 a.m. June 27 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings.

    Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 panel selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    On June 27, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 7 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 8 a.m.

    Reporters and photographers should check in at 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 7:30-8:30 A.M.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn indicated that she had received a supplemental brief from Hasan concerning the “defense of others” defense. Osborn said that she considered the matters raised but declined to modify her ruling from the June 14 session where she ruled that the defense was not valid and she will not allow Hasan to present evidence or argument on such a defense.
     
    Furthermore, Osborn did not make a ruling regarding the motion for a continuance since Hasan chose to withdraw the motion.
     
    The judge also issued a written order defining the roles and responsibilities of standby counsel. The standby counsel are required to provide Hasan with all unclassified discovery materials, attend all sessions of court, be prepared to assume the role of defense counsel should the court order it or should Hasan request it. They also are to assist Hasan with legal research and procedural matters should he request their assistance. Both Lt. Col. Kris Poppe and Maj. Joseph Marcee will remain at the table with Hasan and Lt. Col. Christopher Martin will remain behind the bar.
     
    Additionally, Osborn asked Hasan’s standby counsel if they wanted to continue with their motion for withdrawal. Poppe stated that they would withdraw their motion based on her ruling on the “defense of others” defense and her written order defining standby counsel’s role in the case.
    Osborn also ordered Hasan to inform her of any prior motions that he wished her to reconsider and to file any additional motions by June 21.
     
    Panel selection will start on July 9 and opening statements will begin not earlier than Aug. 6.
     
    Finally, Osborn discussed a defense motion regarding security. She indicated that she had reviewed and sealed the security plans concerning the trial. She specifically found that there was no specific threat towards any specific person or category of persons. She also said that she ordered Fort Hood officials to inform her immediately if they became aware of a specific threat towards any specific person or category of persons.
     
    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.
  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 1 p.m. June 18 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings.

    Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original June 5 panel selection and subsequent trial will be granted access.

    On June 18, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 10:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 11:30 a.m.

    Reporters and photographers should check in at 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 10-11:30 A.M.

    All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas - In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Col. Tara Osborn ruled that the "defense of others" defense fails as a matter of law. In viewing the submissions made by Hasan in a light most favorable to him, the judge decided that there was no evidence to support an immediate threat by anyone at Fort Hood to anyone in Afghanistan.  Further, she ruled that as a uniformed Soldier in the U.S. Army, Hasan had no justification to kill other U.S. Soldiers.  She ruled that she will not allow Hasan to present any evidence or argument relating to the defense of others. 

    Osborn also ruled on Hasan's complaints about the adequacy of assistance received in preparing the documents he submitted to the court.  The judge ruled that the adequacy of assistance was irrelevant because no amount of legal research or argument would have resulted in a different ruling as it relates to the defense of others.

    Osborn ordered all of the standby defense counsel to submit written briefs to the court outlining what they believed to be their role as standby counsel.  The judge indicated she would issue a written order to standby counsel on their role in the case.  The attorneys' briefs are due June 17.

    Osborn allowed for the release of one of the paralegals on the defense team. The judge, however, ordered that there be a replacement for any paralegal released from the team.  She also allowed for the release of Capt. Ryan Coward, military lawyer who assisted the defense counsel, so that he may separate from the Army.  Coward has never appeared in court on behalf of Hasan.

    The next hearing in this case is scheduled for June 18.  The judge has not yet indicated what time the hearing will begin.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.

  • III Corps celebrates Army's 238th Birthday

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- In a ceremony celebrating the Army's 238th birthday, Maj. Gen. Anthony Ierardi, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general and Fort Hood senior mission commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. James Norman, 1st Cav. Div command sergeant major, flanked by the oldest and youngest III Corps Soldiers, Sgt. 1st Class Vincent Douglas, 54, and Pfc. Michael Seals, 18, cut the cake on the Army's 238th birthday 9:30 a.m. June 14 inside III Corps Headquarters. (Photo by Daniel Cernero, III Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs)

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 1 p.m. June 14 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings.

    On June 14, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 10:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 11:30 a.m.

    All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 10-11:30 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – The III Corps Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion commander preferred court-martial charges June 12 against Master Sgt. Brad Grimes regarding allegations he was involved in prostitution-related activities with another Soldier also currently under investigation here. 

    Grimes is currently assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Corps, here. He has served in the Army for almost 18 years.     

    The general nature of the charges are as follows: Grimes is accused of conspiring with the other Soldier to patronize a prostitute under Article 81, Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ); patronizing a prostitute under Article 134, UCMJ; committing adultery under Article 134, UCMJ; and solicitation to commit adultery under Article 134, UCMJ. 

    Grimes will be assigned a military detailed defense counsel by the Army’s Trial Defense Services (TDS) at no expense to him.

    Grimes is innocent until proven guilty.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- During the June 11 pretrial hearing in the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, the only issue before the court was Hasan’s request for assistance from standby counsel.
     
    Hasan’s standby counsel believed they complied with Hasan’s request.
     
    Hasan, on the other hand, felt that his counsel provided very limited support because of a disagreement over his strategy. 
     
    Col. Tara Osborn, presiding judge, provided an order to standby counsel explaining they had a duty to provide legal support requested by Hasan.
     
    Hasan’s counsel objected to this order on ethical grounds. 
     
    As a result, Osborn ordered Hasan’s standby counsel to submit a written, sealed brief to the court listing the factual and legal basis for their belief they could not comply with the Court’s order regarding their duties to assist Hasan. 
     
    The brief is to be completed and filed by noon June 12. 
     
    Osborn has currently not scheduled another Article 39a hearing into this matter.
     
    The accused, Hasan, is innocent until or unless he is proven guilty.
  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood’s Noncommissioned Officer Academy will host a Flag Day presentation at 2 p.m. June 14 at the academy, located in the H Wing of the Soldier Development Center, Bldg. 3009.

    The event, a short ceremony commemorating the “Pledge of Allegiance,” is open to the entire Fort Hood community. For more information, call (254) 287-6172.

  • CORRECTION: Emergency personnel and TxDot officials are reporting that ACP 3 will now reopen to outbound traffic at 6:30 p.m. June 10. The Clear Creek overpass will reopen at 7 p.m. June 10.

    *********************************

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood's Directorate of Emergency Services has closed ACP 3 (Clear Creek Gate) for outbound traffic because of an early afternoon traffic accident of an 18-wheeler transporting construction material, which damaged the Clear Creek Road overpass of U.S. Highway 190. Inbound traffic is still possible. It's undetermined at this time when ACP 3 outbound traffic lanes will reopen.

    As a result of the accident, TxDot has temporarily closed the Clear Creek bridge and eastbound U.S. 190. Clean up is underway and bridge engineers are enroute to assess the bridge damage.

    Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes, if possible.

  • UPDATE: FORT HOOD, Texas -- In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn has changed the start time of the 11 June Article 39A hearing to 1 p.m.
     
    On June 11, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 10:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 11:30 a.m.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Selection and subsequent trial will be granted access. Reporters and photographers should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 10-11 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    FORT HOOD, Texas - In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn allowed Hasan until close of business June 10 to provide a justification to support his proposed defense of "defense of others." Hasan has previously requested a three-month continuance of the court-martial in order to prepare such a defense.

    Pending the ruling on this motion for a continuance, the panel members were directed to return to their home duty stations.

    Furthermore, Osborn denied Lt. Col. Chris Martin's request to be relieved as stand-by counsel, citing Hasan's repeated indecision on his use and desire for counsel. Osborn cited the need for continuity given the complexity of the case.

    Additionally, Hasan indicated that he currently has insufficient access to legal research material and the use of the Internet. He stated he was concerned that too many trees would be killed in the printing of research materials, and repeated his request for Internet access, which was denied by the judge.

    The court will be in session once again at 9 a.m. June 11 to hear pre-trial motions presented in the case.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.

    On June 11, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    NOTE: Only those media outlets who have preregistered for the original 5 June Panel Secletion and subsequent trial will be granted access. Reporters and photographers should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 5:30-7 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

     

  • June 9, 2013 Death of a Fort Hood Soldier Spc. Sherman Scott Henry

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who was found unresponsive at his on-post residence June 1.

    Specialist Sherman Scott Henry, 40, whose home of record is listed as Jonesville, S.C., entered the military in January 2010 as a field artillery automated tactical data systems specialist. He was assigned to 3rd Fires Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, since June 2010.

    Henry deployed in support of Operation New Dawn from August 2010 to August 2011.

    Henry's awards and decorations includes the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon.

    Circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation.

    There is currently no photo available. If one becomes available, this release will be updated at Forthoodpresscenter.com

  • FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood's Independence Day Celebration will begin at 6 p.m. July 4 in Hood Stadium located behind the Clear Creek Post Exchange.

    Musical entertainment will include a local DJ playing recorded music from 6-8 p.m.

    This will be followed by two 1st Cavalry Division Bands performing from 8-9:30 p.m. "Warrior's Call"  will cover rock-n-roll hits and "Crossfire Brass Band" is a brass band covering popular music.

    A 30-minute fireworks display will begin at 9:30 p.m.

    During the event, food trucks will be selling food and beverages along with family readiness group food and beverage booths and other sponsored booths from 6-9:30 p.m. Alcohol will not be sold during the event.

    "While this year's Independence Day event will be reduced in scope and scale compared to previous years' events due to budget uncertainty and need to be good stewards of resources, we will still have the opportunity for our Soldiers and their families to properly celebrate our Nation's independence," said Maj. Gen. Anthony Ierardi, Fort Hood senior commander. "Notably, fireworks for the event will be funded by the money the post residents saved in non-appropriated funds through our recycling program."

    Details on post entry, traffic flow and parking proceedures will be released at a later date.

  • FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn postponed ruling on defense’s motion for a continuance based on Hasan’s assertion that he needs time to develop the facts necessary to support his proffer for a “defense of others.”    

    Hasan asserted his defense is based on his desire to protect the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the leadership of the Taliban to include Mullah Mohammad Omar.  However, he was unable to provide sufficient facts at the time of today’s hearing in support of this defense. 

    The judge allowed him until noon June 5 to provide the necessary facts to support the need for a continuance. 

    In addition, the judge ordered that the panel members arrive no earlier than 1 p.m. June 10.  The next Article 39a hearing is at noon June 5. 

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    On June 5, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 9:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 10:30 a.m.

    NOTE: All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 9-10:30 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

  • UPDATE: On June 4, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 5:30-7 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    FORT HOOD, Texas --  In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Hasan requested a three-month delay to his case, citing a need to change his defense to a “defense of others”, and a need to revise his witness list, despite his pro se motion filed earlier in which he stated he would need no delay.

    Hasan once again asked to have Lt. Col. Christopher Martin relieved from the defense team, and requested only Lt. Col. Kris Poppe to remain at the table with him for panel selection. Osborn stood by her original ruling, with the exception of having Maj. Joseph Marcee to either sit in the gallery or at a seperate table next to the defense.

    Judge Col. Tara Osborn ordered the government to ensure Hasan has an office and legal staff to assist him in his defense. Hasan is required to submit any voir dire changes for jury questions, as well as an instruction regarding his wear of a beard and a request for a three month continuance to the court by June 4.

    Another Article 39a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. June 4. Panel selection remains scheduled to begin June 5.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.

  • UPDATE: With correction of rank for Lt. Col. Kris Poppe.

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn heard testimony by Army physician Maj. Prasad Lakshminarasimhiah, M.D.M.C.,  [LUCK- SCHME-NARA-SIM-HIYA] staff physiatrist , Headquarters and Headquarters Company, San Antonio Military Medical Center, South, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, as to Hasan’s ability to handle the physical strain of representing himself during his upcoming trial. 

    Hasan was injured during the Nov. 5, 2009, shooting incident and has since been confined to a wheelchair. 

    Osborn found him physically and mentally capable capable of defending himself. She ruled in favor of his motion to waive defense counsel and defend himself, approving his motion to act pro se. 

    The judge further ruled that defense counsel Lt. Col. Kris Poppe and Maj. Joseph Marcee may continue to act as stand-by counsel and will sit with Hasan throughout the trial. 

    Hasan specifically requested that Lt. Col. Christopher Martin be removed from the defense team; however, Osborn ruled he will continue as stand-by counsel and will sit in the gallery.

    The accused, Hasan, is innocent until or unless he is proven guilty.

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  • May 29, 2013 Judge sets next pre-trial hearing in Hasan case for June 3 Panel selection set for June 5, trial set for July 1

    FORT HOOD, Texas -- The next pretrial hearing in the court martial of Maj. Nidal M. Hasan is set to take place 9 a.m. June 3 at the Lawrence J. Williams Judicial Center here.

    The trial judge, Col. Tara Osborn, is expected to announce rulings from matters litigated at past hearings. Selection of a panel (the military's equivalent of a jury) remains set to begin June 5 and the trial is set to begin July 1.

    In lieu of this development, media registration for the June 3 pre-trial hearing, June 5 panel selection and July 1 court-martial will be reopened from May 29-31. 

    On June 3, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

    NOTE: All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 5:30-7 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

    The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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