Legislature(2021 - 2022)
10/05/2021 02:00 PM Senate JOINT ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Armed Services Updates | |
| Alaska National Guard Update | |
| Alaskan Command (alcom) Update | |
| Us Army Alaska (usarak) Update | |
| Us Coast Guard 17th District Update | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
JOINT ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE
October 5, 2021
2:02 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Matt Claman, Co-Chair
Senator Mike Shower, Co-Chair (via teleconference)
Representative Ivy Spohnholz
Representative Geran Tarr (via teleconference)
Representative David Nelson
Senator Joshua Revak (via teleconference)
Senator Roger Holland (via teleconference)
Senator Lora Reinbold (via teleconference)
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Chris Tuck
Senator Scott Kawasaki
PUBLIC MEMBERS PRESENT
Colonel Tim Jones, retired - Fairbanks (via teleconference)
Brigadier General Julio "Randy" Banez, retired - Fairbanks (via
teleconference)
Colonel Robert Doehl, retired - Anchorage (via teleconference)
Colonel George Vakalis, retired - Anchorage (via teleconference)
PUBLIC MEMBERS ABSENT
Nelson N. Angapak, Sr. - Anchorage
Commodore James Chase, retired - Anchorage
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
ARMED SERVICES PRESENTATIONS:
ALASKA NATIONAL GUARD (AKNG) UPDATE
- HEARD
ALASKAN COMMAND (ALCOM) UPDATE
- HEARD
US Army Alaska (USARAK) UPDATE
- HEARD
US COAST GUARD (USCG) 17th DISTRICT UPDATE
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
TORRENCE W. SAXE, Major General; Adjutant General
Alaska National Guard (AKNG); Commissioner
Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Delivered the AKNG Update.
DAVID A. KRUMM, Commander, Lieutenant General,
Alaskan Command (ALCOM), US Northern Command; Commander,
Eleventh US Air Force, Pacific Air Forces; Commander,
North American Aerospace Defense Command
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Delivered the Alaskan Command (ALCOM)
update.
BRIAN EIFLER, Major General; Commanding General
US Army Alaska (USARAK), Deputy Commander,
US Alaskan Command (ALCOM)
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Delivered the US Army Alaska (USARAK)
update.
KRISTOPHER BERG, Command Chief Master Sergeant
Eleventh US Air Force (USAF), Commander
Senior Enlisted Leader Alaskan Command ALCOM &
Alaskan NORAD Region
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a portion of the USARAK update.
NATHAN A. MOORE, PE
Rear Admiral; Commander
U.S. Coast Guard 17th District
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Delivered the US Coast Guard 17th District
update.
ACTION NARRATIVE
2:02:09 PM
CO-CHAIR MATT CLAMAN called the Joint Armed Services Committee
meeting to order at 2:02 p.m. Present at the call to order were
Senators Revak (via teleconference), Holland (via
teleconference), Reinbold (via teleconference), and Co-Chair
Shower (via teleconference); and Representatives Spohnholz,
Nelson, and Co-Chair Claman. Public members present were Colonel
Tim Jones (via teleconference), Colonel George Vakalis (via
teleconference), Colonel Robert Doehl, and Brigadier General
"Randy" Banez. Representative Tarr (via teleconference) joined
the meeting soon thereafter.
^Armed Services Updates
ARMED SERVICES UPDATES
2:05:03 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN announced the committee would hear update
briefings from the armed services. He offered members the
opportunity to introduce themselves and provide a brief
background.
SENATOR HOLLAND stated he failed to mention at the previous
meeting that he is still a member of the U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary.
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN recognized Major General Torrence W. Saxe.
2:08:51 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR joined meeting.
^Alaska National Guard Update
ALASKA NATIONAL GUARD UPDATE
2:09:17 PM
MAJOR GENERAL TORRENCE W. SAXE, Adjutant General, Alaska
National Guard (AKNG); Commissioner, Alaska Department of
Military and Veterans Affairs, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
(JBER), Alaska, began a PowerPoint on the Alaska National Guard
(AKNG). He turned to slide 2, Three Phases. He discussed the
three phases taken since he took command three years ago. He
related that Phase 1 focused on the troops to make sure they
understood their role in the military. Phase 2 focused on the
AKNG operations in the state as a whole and in individual places
on the road system. He remarked that some places in rural Alaska
have not had an AKNG presence during the last decade. Lastly,
Phase 3 focused on drafting the first AKNG Arctic Strategy.
2:10:38 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slides 3-4. He related that the map
on slide 4 identified the AKNG's primary focus on communities,
shown by blue stars for air guard locations, including Juneau.
Four years ago he was commander at Eielson Air Force Base (AFB),
when for the first time the unit flew KC-135s to Juneau. He
reported that for the first time in 15 years, the AKNG conducted
a commissary run to Bethel. This mission consisted of taking
commissary orders and flying out goods from the Anchorage and
Washington, DC commissaries to the Bethel hangar. This provided
the community with lower-priced goods than ones available in the
rural community. Over 200 people attended the event that brought
tens of thousands of dollars into the community.
2:12:07 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE directed attention to the photo of two
recruits from Chevak. He related that the AKNG went to Nome pre-
COVID to check on the community. He directed attention to the
bottom left photo of the Kodiak Armory, which will be named
posthumously after Daniel Harmon, a Vietnam era-soldier. He
highlighted two reasons to visit rural Alaska. He stated that
the AKNG would want to get to a community quickly in the event
that a fire or flood emergency arose. Active duty troops can be
dispersed to the "blue-starred" hubs depicted on the slide.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE discussed the Arctic sustainment package
delivery on slide 5. He directed attention to the photograph,
which showed parachutes dropping food and medicine that could
sustain a small group of people for two weeks.
2:14:26 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE discussed slide 6, Domestic Arctic Response.
He directed attention to the photograph on the far right that
was taken about 5 years ago. At the time, the Alaska Defense
Force Team, administered by the Department of Military &
Veterans Affairs (DMVA) noticed an unfamiliar fishing vessel. It
was identified as a Russian fishing trawler that had ventured
into American waters without the authority to do so. This
illustrates the importance of maintaining routine patrols using
trained officers. He highlighted several other slides that
showed arctic transports of goods by ground and via helicopter.
2:15:25 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 7, Operations. He
acknowledged that there were times the AKNG does not want to
repeat. He said he would shift from federal operations to state
operations. The AKNG empowers its troops by having a zero
tolerance for toxic leadership, sexual assault and sexual
harassment.
2:16:00 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE said he likes to say that the AKNG is
building relationships from "Alaska to Mongolia." Alaska
partners with Mongolia. The AKNG mentors the Mongolian Air
National Guard on how to establish its own air force, he said.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE referred to a world map on slide 8. He
reported that as of this morning the domestic Army and Air
National Guard troops are deployed in the US at Volk Field and
Langley AFB and internationally at Guantanamo, Poland, Mongolia,
Al Dhafra, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Jordan, Iraq, Syria,
Kuwait, and Antarctica. On any given day dozens or hundreds of
AKNG members are deployed throughout the world. The days of a
strategic reserve, in which the AKNG is called up for a global
conflict are long gone. Instead, the AKNG serves the state and
nation every day.
2:17:03 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 9, the Alaska Army National
Guard. The photo on the upper left shows one of six new CH-47F
Chinook helicopters. The photo on the lower left shows the
helicopter training for fire suppression. Fort Greely has
received 40 ground-based interceptor missiles and 20 more are
forthcoming.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 10, the Alaska Air National
Guard (AKNG). He stated that together the Army National Guard
and Alaska National Guard are arguably the most operational in
the nation, with many troops deployed on 24/7 missions. Clear
Air Force Station has been renamed as Clear Space Force Station
(Clear SFS). He directed attention to the C-17 aircraft, a
versatile airlift aircraft used to assist the USAF.
2:18:19 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 11, Alaska State Defense
Force (ASDF). He highlighted the productivity of the ASDF. He
remarked that Commander Jeff Brown said they have been more
active over the past 24 months than over the past two decades.
He reported that nearly 30 percent of its members have been
actively involved in some aspect of COVID-19 in state
operations, including contact tracing and working at the airport
warehouse for the Department of Health and Social Services
(DHSS). The ASDF has risen from 76 members to close to 200.
2:19:00 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 12, Alaska Naval Militia
(ANM). He stated that Alaska is one of the few states with an
enabled militia. The ANM is comprised of 60 US Navy and US
Marine Corps reservists. The ANM has actively assisted for
COVID-19 activities, fires and floods. He reported that ANM has
a new commander.
2:19:30 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 13, Office of Veterans
Affairs. He directed attention to the photograph of the bronze
medal that will be given to families to honor the Alaska
Territorial Guard service members.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE reported that the Stand Down will be held in
Anchorage on November 1-4, 2021. [Stand Down helps veterans who
need assistance with medical, legal, housing and employment]. He
directed attention to the photo of Alaska Cab, shown on the
upper right side of the slide, whose role is to take veterans,
primarily Vietnam veterans, to medical appointments. He directed
attention to the map showing DMVA offices in Sitka, Juneau,
JBER, Kodiak, Fairbanks, Utqiagvik, Wales, Toksook Bay and
Bethel.
2:20:44 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 14, Alaska Military Youth
Academy. He reported that the academy graduated cadets in the
midst of COVID-19. Currently, there have been zero cases within
the school. Cadets are routinely tested. Cadets have an
opportunity to earn a GED or high school diploma. A high
percentage of cadets go on to serve in the active duty military
or the AKNG.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 15, the Division of Homeland
Security & Emergency Management. He highlighted recent natural
disasters that occurred in Alaska, including in 2018 an
earthquake in Anchorage and fires and floods in 2019. The slide
also had photographs of the Cook Inlet Earthquake Response to
the 2018 Anchorage earthquake, the Yukon-Tanana-Koyukuk Rural
Resilience Workshop and the State Emergency Operations Center.
2:22:00 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to slide 16, Team Alaska. He stated
that the goal is to have empowered professionals, a dual mission
and a focus on the future with AKNG's counterparts.
2:22:18 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE turned to questions on slide 18. He said the
best mission statement he has seen is shown on this slide along
with a photograph of several guardsmen. It read, "This We'll
Defend."
2:22:38 PM
REPRESENTATIVE NELSON asked if there was any thought of
expanding the commissary run to other hubs throughout Alaska.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered yes; the commissary runs are popular
so he would like to extend them to other Western Alaska hubs,
including Chevak, Bethel, Kotzebue, and Nome. During his visit
to Chevak this spring, the community expressed interest in a
commissary run. The AKNG was able to implement protocols and
conduct the commissary run successfully during COVID-19. He
applauded the team effort in Washington, D.C. and JBER.
2:23:42 PM
REPRESENTATIVE NELSON remarked that AKNG members serving in
rural communities do not have access to commissaries for goods
like a soldier or guardsman in Fairbanks or JBER does. He asked
for a progress report on the Rural Engagement Program.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that it was looking much better. He
remarked that COVID-19 understandably slowed down the progress
since AKNG cannot go into an area unless it is safe to do so.
However, AKNG has established relationships at the bigger hubs,
in particular in Nome. He expressed an interest in holding
operational and recruiting events. He pointed out that Nome has
an incredible facility, but currently only one soldier uses this
big facility. Obviously, this facility must be filled quickly,
he said.
2:24:56 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE highlighted the importance of having local
AKNG serving in communities. First, during domestic AKNG
emergency efforts, it helps to have people on the ground in the
event of a fire or flood since it improves response time because
locals are familiar with the area and the residents. Second, to
accomplish its federal responsibilities, it is great to have
AKNG on the ground directing traffic when AKNG needs to get
active duty troops into the area. He said he must have the
assurance that AKNG pilots know how to fly into these areas.
Plans to visit Bethel, Chevak and all surrounding areas are on
hold for a couple of months due to the latest COVID-19 surge. He
said he will coordinate rural visits with the communities.
2:26:08 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER expressed appreciation for the good work the
AKNG is doing throughout Alaska. He echoed the importance to
continue to work in rural Alaska, especially since young men and
women have fewer choices in smaller communities. He acknowledged
the opportunities and education that come with AKNG service.
CO-CHAIR SHOWER said he received requests for information on the
COVID policy mandated by federal government. He noted that the
potential ramifications for military members refusing COVID-19
vaccinations could be similar to receiving a dishonorable
discharge so he has questions. First, he asked what will happen
to the men and women serving if they refuse vaccinations. He
understood military members were seeking exemptions for medical
or religious reasons or to have additional time to research data
on vaccines. Second, he asked what progress has been made on
options for those who refuse the mandated COVID-19 vaccination.
He said he would like clarification since substantial
misinformation surrounds COVID-19.
2:29:20 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN stated that presenters were advised to be
prepared to address public policy questions within their service
branch.
2:29:37 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that the federal mandate initiated
by the President is channeled through the chain of command to
the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the US Army and the
Secretary of the Air Force. Every private and airman is being
asked if they would like to apply for an exemption, he said. If
so, the service member will be referred to a Chaplin or Human
Resources with the knowledge that he will not be the person
approving or disapproving any exemptions. In the event the
exemption is not approved by the proper authority, the service
member must get the vaccine. He emphasized that those who apply
for exemptions will be provided any help necessary to go through
the process. He reiterated that each individual will be given
the option to apply for an exemption. Based on the service
member's response, the person will either get the COVID-19
vaccine in the near future or go through the exemption process
with the understanding that the decision will not be made by
him, [but by someone up the chain of command].
2:31:13 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER asked what would happen if the service member
refuses the vaccine after they were denied an exemption. For
example, he asked if the soldier would be given a dishonorable
discharge.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE responded that the US Army and the US Air
Force use different processes. He stated that the US Army has
been prescriptive by outlining a certain level of discipline.
However, the US Air Force has not been quite as clear. He
advised that his policy letters contain information that the
discipline would be administered by supporting commanders, but
any potential discharges for the AKNG will be decided at his
level.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE explained that he did not want individual
battalions making different decisions. In consultation with the
Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG Corps), he wants to be
certain he has received all of the information to make a
decision. He stated that he wants to ensure that any decisions
are fair, just, and equitable for everyone in this situation. He
said he has not yet received all of the information from the
active duty US Army or the active duty US Air Force members.
Decisions will be made for the AKNG in December but the US Air
Force will be pushed until the summer 2022. He stated that as
questions arise, they will go up the chain of command to him.
2:33:43 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER acknowledged that some people will choose not to
get the COVID-19 vaccine. He commented that he would appreciate
knowing how military men and women will be treated when the time
comes. He wants to be certain military members are treated
fairly, honored for their service and not punished. He asked
that the committee be given the information when it becomes
available.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE responded that he directed subordinate
managers to keep confidential the names of any service members
who request exemptions. He said he does not want any
individuals' names made public to help ensure those service
members are not singled out. He said he wants these individuals
to be respected throughout the process.
2:36:40 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN asked if he knew how many people were applying
for exemptions.
2:36:20 PM
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE replied the current numbers range from 5-10
percent of the active duty members.
2:36:58 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD said the COVID-19 vaccination is a deep concern
to her and she is adamantly opposed to forced immunizations. She
offered her view that it is unconstitutional. She offered her
belief that only one Pfizer vaccine was licensed to market. She
asked if he knew what ingredients were contained in the Pfizer
vaccines. She asked if members will receive the licensed
vaccine.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that he cannot answer the question
related to the chemical composition of the Pfizer vaccine. The
federal mandate is only for the Pfizer vaccine, but AKNG will
accept the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine for members who
received it on their own.
2:38:08 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD said according to state law, Alaska residents
have the ability to decline all medical interventions, including
inoculations. She commented that Colonel Aquilar, Commander,
JBER, is mandating masks for people recreating on JBER
facilities and recommending people avoid businesses that do not
require a vaccination card or antigen/PCR tests. First, she
asked for comments on Colonel Aquilar's directives. Second, she
asked if anyone was pushing back on President Biden's
illegitimate constitutional tyranny.
2:39:06 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN stated that Major General Saxe could answer the
question on Senator Reinbold's perspective about whether it is
constitutional or unconstitutional but he is not required to
take a position. If he chooses to answer, it does not mean he is
taking a position, he said.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that Commander Kirsten Aguilar, who
serves as the installation commander, has the authority to
decide who can come on JBER. However, most of the guardsmen live
off base so it would not directly apply to them. He related his
understanding that off-base guardsmen would be on base for more
than one drill.
2:40:50 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM informed members that Colonel Aguilar's
requirements for masks on federal installations is per the DOD
order, which is dependent on whether the rate of infection is
significant or high. Thus, Colonel Aguilar is enforcing the
federal order. Further, Colonel Aguilar has the authority to
enforce mandates to service members in the Anchorage area based
on the public health emergency order issued several weeks ago in
response to rising cases.
2:41:24 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD asked whether the generals were aware of
Lieutenant Colonel Theresa Long's affidavit that the Pfizer
vaccine is dangerous, a Navy flight surgeon's warnings about
dire consequences and the Colorado lawsuit Austin v. Roberts.
She asked whether there was any compensation for injuries or
ailments related to reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that it would be determined by a
line of duty (LOD) process, such that if it was proven that a
vaccine caused a health condition, it would go through the
appropriate medical authorities and the person would be given a
certain percentage of the service member's disability. This is
the case for any type of injury, he said.
2:43:18 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD said COVID-19 vaccines impact her constituents.
She related her understanding that Commander Aguilar's authority
ends on base and she cannot overrule state and local laws.
MAJOR GENERAL SAXE answered that Commander Aguilar can control
who is allowed on base. He stated that military jurisdictions
are outlined in Title 10 of the federal authority and AS Title
32 for the state authority.
2:44:45 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM informed members that military
commanders have the authority to direct active-duty service
members' movements. For example, an installation commander could
put a local business off limits, perhaps due to known drug
activity, excessive fights or other safety issues. It would only
be applicable to active duty service members. Further, there are
a number of things a commander can do including restricting
drinking alcoholic beverages, he said.
2:46:17 PM
SENATOR SHOWER asked Major General Saxe to keep the committee
informed about service members who have issues with the
exemptions that lead to repercussions. He expressed an interest
in helping military members who have honorably served their
country.
2:47:25 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN recognized Lieutenant General Krumm.
^ALASKAN COMMAND (ALCOM) UPDATE
ALASKAN COMMAND (ALCOM) UPDATE
2:47:40 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL DAVID A. KRUMM, Commander, Alaskan Command,
United States Northern Command; Commander, Eleventh Air Force,
Pacific Air Forces; Commander, North American Aerospace Defense
Command, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, began a
PowerPoint on the Alaskan Command (ALCOM) update.
2:49:12 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL DAVID A. KRUMM reviewed slide 2, ANR and
ALCOM Overview.
ANR and ALCOM provide:
• Forward-based C2 to detect and defeat threats in and
through the Arctic
• Increased activity in Northern Approaches over
last three years
• Spans operational level gaps between six CCMD plans
• Extended span of control operational reach for
NORAD and USNORTHCOM
• Synchronization of joint forces across all
domains and bi-national relationship
• Unity of effort, unity of command
• Regional subject matter expertise and critical
partnerships
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM directed attention to the map on slide
2. He stated his area of responsibility includes the Alaska
North Region (ANR) and the Alaskan Command (ALCOM). The hashed
areas indicated on the map relate to the air defense implication
zones in and around Alaska. The red solid line show the area of
responsibility that extends through Canada to the North Pole. It
is a large expanse that is becoming increasingly accessible
since climate change creates less ice and more activity in the
Arctic, he said. He acknowledged the need for a more sustained
presence and the ability to thrive, not just survive in the
Arctic.
2:50:17 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM directed attention to the map on slide
3 that shows Alaska is the most strategic place in the world.
Alaska's location allows the military to get anywhere in the
Northern Hemisphere within nine hours. For example, it is faster
to travel from Anchorage to Tokyo than it is to travel from
Hawaii to Tokyo. He noted the quote by General Glen Van Herck,
US Northern Command Commander: "We must continue to take into
consideration and understand the unique dynamics and challenges
of the Arctic Environment". The Arctic used to be considered a
barrier while the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans were considered
important defenses. However, the Arctic is no longer considered
a barrier due to improved technology and human activity.
2:52:03 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM turned to slide 4, DoD Across Alaska,
consisting of a map of Alaska superimposed on the Lower 48. He
highlighted Alaska's immense size by stating that it takes 3
hours to fly by jet fighter from JBER to Eareckson Air Station
at the tip of the Aleutians. He related that about 9 percent of
Alaska's population are members of the Department of Defense
(DOD), AKNG, AKNG reserve, civil service or their families.
2:53:37 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM discussed Arctic Affairs, slide 5. The
commander of ALCOM is the US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) lead
for Arctic Affairs and the operational-level lead for Arctic
capability advocacy. He related the Department of Defense (DOD),
United States Coast Guard (USCG), the US Air Force (USAF), the
US Navy, the US Army and the US Marine Corps have all published
Arctic strategies. There is a general recognition that the
presence in the Arctic needs to increase, that people need to
work and thrive in the Arctic and the military needs to prepare
rather than react to circumstances. This is being done via
branches of the service, by educational programs and symposiums.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM related that there have been
significant discussions about the Arctic and how the US can
protect its interests. What happens in Alaska is critically
important to the future of the nation, he said.
2:55:05 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM reviewed Homeland Defense on slide 6,
which read:
• No fail mission and our #1 priority
• Must be prepared for two possible scenarios
• In the Arctic
• Through the Arctic
• Strong defense partnership between U.S. and Canada
is essential
• SECDEF Priorities: Defeat COVID-19, Prioritize China
as the Pacing Challenge, Address Advanced and
Persistent Threats, Innovate and Modernize the DOD,
Tackle the Climate Crisis
2:55:07 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM highlighted that the military is
focused on homeland defense. He reviewed the bullet points.
Although China is prioritized as challenging, Russia poses the
most existential threat to the nation in the next few years.
ALCOM takes pride in defending the US and will do so at all
costs.
2:56:05 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM turned to slide 7, Defense Support of
Civil Authorities (DSCA), which read:
• Command and Control
• Deployable communications
• Overland search & rescue coordination
• Disaster response/request for assistance
• Federal and State partnerships
• Support to the State of Alaska
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM emphasized the importance of the
federal and state partnerships. He applauded the Alaska National
Guard (AKNG) military and civil partnerships.
2:57:07 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM turned to slide 8, the 11th Air Force
Overview. He said he serves as the Commander of the 11th Air
Force. He directed attention to the wide ranging area of
operations from Eielson, JBER, and Joint Base (JB) Lewis-McChord
Air Force bases, to JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam Air Force Base
(PHAFB), Andersen Air Force Base (AAFB) and Wake Island
Airfield. He said he thinks of these bases as the tip of the
spear when considering the threats from China. Thus, the team
conducts exercises regularly.
2:58:12 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM turned to slide 9, Operational Overview
& Two-Year Outlook. He stated that ALCOM trains every single
day. Over the next two years ALCOM will conduct Arctic Edge
winter operations. ALCOM conducts the Red Flag operations three
to four times a year, experimenting to find ways to accomplish
what needs to be done. ALCOM also trains with the USMC and US
Navy in Alaska. ALCOM has been considering additional command
and control exercises.
2:59:01 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM stated that ALCOM has been conducting
annual operations at Colony Glacier for recovery at the 1952 C-
124 that crashed en route to then Elmendorf Air Force Base.
Further, he stated ALCOM will conduct a feasibility study for
Eldridge Glacier in an effort to recover the remains of 19
service members who lost their lives in the crash. It is
important to keep the commitment to bring home military members,
he said. He highlighted that the F-35 squadron bed-down at
Eielson AFB is proceeding.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM stated that ALCOM continuously makes
improvements to JBER and Eielson AFB. Further, as Major General
Saxe mentioned ALCOM continues to look for sites in Alaska for
agile combat deployment. It is important to disperse and operate
anywhere in Alaska, especially to counter any potential target
to JBER or Eielson AFB by US adversaries. ALCOM works to improve
its facilities in King Salmon, Galena, Utqiaguik and Nome for
operational uses. Finally ALCOM works to ensure the DOD
continues its strong investment in the capabilities and
infrastructure in Alaska.
3:00:48 PM
KRISTOPHER BERG, Command Chief Master Sergeant, Eleventh US Air
Force (USAF), Commander, Senior Enlisted Leader of the Alaskan
Command (ALCOM) & Alaskan NORAD Region, Joint Base Elmendorf-
Richardson (JBER), Alaska. He reviewed slide 10, Arctic Tabs.
Arctic Leader Qualification Program
• Memo Signed in January of 2021
• USAF is responsible for 79% of DoD Arctic Missions
• Purpose:
• Develop Leaders with Increased Arctic Awareness
• Prepare Leaders to Advocate on Arctic Affairs
• Build a Future Force Ready for Action to Support a
Safe and Secure Arctic Region
3:01:00 PM
CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT BERG highlighted one component of the US
Air Force was to professionalize service in the Arctic. One way
to do so was to create the Arctic Leader Qualification Program.
He indicated ALCOM hopes to develop leaders with an increased
Arctic awareness and to prepare leaders to advocate on Arctic
affairs. Those qualified are awarded a Special Experience
Identifier and an Arctic Tab. This tab provides commanders a
quick way to identify members with Arctic experience. The
program is intended to support the 2109 DOD Arctic Strategy.
3:02:23 PM
CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT BERG reviewed slide 11, The Ted Stevens
Center (TSC) for Arctic Security Studies. He paraphrased the
mission:
Mission: The Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security
Studies will build strong, sustainable, international
networks of security leaders to advance U.S. national
security priorities in the Arctic region. In DOD's
establishment plan to Congress, the Department defined
four mission areas: 1. Advance Arctic awareness, both
among partners and within the increasingly
professionalized field of U.S. Arctic service; 2.
Advance U.S. Arctic priorities; 3. Reinforce the
rules-based order in the Arctic; and 4. In keeping
with SECDEF's priorities and the Interim National
Security Strategic Guidance, address the impacts of
climate change.
• June 9, 2021
• IAW NDAA 21 DoD announced their 6th and newest
regional center: the TSC
• September 22, 2021
• DoD named Maj Gen Randy "Church" Kee, USAF (Ret),
the TSC Senior Arctic Advisor for Arctic Security
Affairs?his duty is to support the Under
Secretary of Defense for Policy in the
establishment and early operations of the TSC
• Expected Mid-October
• DoD to announce the location for the center
• Anchorage is one of three locations (the others
are Colorado Springs and Washington D.C.)
3:03:38 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM reviewed slide 12, Serving, Living
Thriving in the Arctic.
• Our relationship with Alaska is key for our military
readiness and the wellness of our families
• Key Focus Areas:
• The Fairbanks North Star Borough
Housing Crisis
• Military and Spouse Licensure Reciprocity
• Schools
3:03:40 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM stated that USAF service members
stationed in Alaska almost universally love the state, although
initially it can be a little scary. He reviewed three things
members can track, with respect to military families. First, the
Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) asked and the USAF agreed
not to build new homes on Eielson AFB, in conjunction with the
addition of the F-35s and the personnel associated with it.
Instead, the community wanted to build homes in the borough for
the military families and receive the economic benefit from
them. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 these homes were never
built. Thus, the USAF has decided that service members can't
bring their families to Eielson AFB due to a lack of quality
homes. He remarked that the housing market is currently
unhealthy.
3:05:23 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM stated that the USAF is working with
the Alaska Congressional Delegation and the Governor's office on
this issue. He emphasized the importance to these service
members to have their families reside in Alaska. He asked
members to help ensure that contractors are incentivized. He
offered to provide members with details of specific housing
needs.
3:06:16 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM identified reciprocity of professional
licenses and quality of schools as two key issues for military
families. He thanked the legislature for passage of SB 21 and SB
12, relating to occupational licensing and temporary licensing
for military spouses, which were beneficial. Although some
spouses expressed concern about the interpretation of language
related to substantially-equivalent licenses, he will work with
the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
(DCCED) to ensure that it is defined appropriately. ALCOM would
prefer to have full reciprocity for their licensees like 34
other states have done to various degrees. He highlighted the
number of dual-income families continues to rise. Reciprocity of
professional licenses helps ensure spouses can relocate with
their military members. He urged member to continue to work to
ensure quality schools are available for children of military
families.
3:08:43 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER asked him to provide updates on two project
areas: the Alaska-Alberta (A2A) Rail Corridor, which provides an
alternate means to move equipment due to issues with Alaska's
ports. Second, he asked for an update on the proposed deep water
port. He expressed an interest in knowing if the state needs to
take any action to keep these projects moving forward.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that the infrastructure is one
issue ALCOM struggles with in Alaska. The Department of Defense
(DOD) always prefers to retain the option to move its forces for
logistical purposes, whether it is for combat or due to a
crisis. Therefore, DOD would be an active user. He advocated for
the deep water port to transport fuel and supplies north of the
Aleutians. He said due to Arctic ice melt and accessibility that
it would be in the US's interest to sustain maritime operations
in the Arctic region. Although he said he cannot endorse
specific projects, he said he would not be disappointed if
either or both projects were completed.
SENATOR SHOWER expressed interest in knowing that ALCOM was
willing to move forward with these important projects.
3:12:23 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM paraphrased slide 13, COVID 19, which
read:
• Military readiness - required to win our nation's wars,
anytime, anywhere
• COVID mitigations have slowed the rate of infection on
our installations
• Contact tracing data shows the bulk of our infections
occur off the installation
• Our readiness requires access to resources and
capabilities located off the base, to include medical
facilities
• This is a war, not a battle request your help in
defeating this enemy
3:12:25 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM said the military needs to be ready for
action at any time. This means that a segment of the military
members cannot be sick with any illness, whether it is COVID-19
or another illness. The military has established procedures to
ensure that sufficient military members can answer the call,
including requiring masks be worn, sanitizing facilities and
spreading people out on its installations. ALCOM has been very
successful in minimizing on-base transmissions. However, the
majority of military members live off base and are part of the
community. These military families visit schools, churches,
restaurants and stores off base. Further, some members go to
doctors or medical facilities off base. The vast majority of
COVID-19 cases on base have resulted from off base transmission
of the infection.
3:14:18 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM asked members to understand that
military readiness is not just a force but also a family. He
asked the committee for help in defeating the enemy, which is
minimizing the COVID-19 infections while still allowing military
members and their families to have access to places in the
communities. Reducing the risk of infection will help ensure
military readiness and the national defense, he said.
3:15:03 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM reported that the military has received
a valid military order to get the vaccine and is working to
fulfill that requirement. The military has taken great care to
ensure that those military members who have requested medical
and religious exemptions receive all the support that they need.
He anticipated that it could be a lengthy process, in part, due
to the field chain of command. Each branch of the service is
slightly different in how it fulfills the legal military order.
That is how it is being treated, he said.
3:16:16 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM paraphrased slide 14, Take Aways, which
read:
• Homeland Defense is our #1 priority - Alaska is the
perfect strategic power projection location for air
and ground military forces
• We are committed to DSCA and our partnership with
the state
• The Arctic is a rapidly changing environment that
will demand continued focus
• Military forces in Alaska are essential to
operations in the region and across the globe
• Thank you for your continued support of our military
members and their families to ensure operational
readiness and world-class quality of life
3:16:18 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM emphasized the military readiness in
Alaska. He highlighted that the fifth-generation fighter jets,
the [Kawasaki] C-2 military transport aircraft, and tanker
aircraft will be the first to fly anywhere in the world when
needed.
3:17:44 PM
REPRESENTATIVE NELSON stated that in 2019 the USN and the USMC
did a joint exercise on Adak. At the time, these branches
expressed an interest in reopening the base. He asked for an
update.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that the US Navy and the USMC
are still debating whether to reopen Adak. During meetings with
senior USN and USMC leadership ALCOM has advocated using Adak
for amphibious training. He offered his view that there is a
shift happening with the withdrawal from Afghanistan regarding
what the focus will be. The USMC typically conducts rotational
Arctic and mountain warfare training in Norway. There has been
some discussion about conducting training here on alternate
years, but no decisions have been made yet. However, leadership
recognizes the potential in Adak.
3:19:22 PM
REPRESENTATIVE NELSON asked for an update on any additional
infrastructure in the Arctic that could affect the quality of
life for military families in Alaska. Many of the branches have
emphasized investing in infrastructure.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM remarked that there will always be
concerns about the quality of life. His focus is on meeting the
day-to-day needs for housing, schools and childcare for active
duty members. He will move forward on other things once these
basic needs are met. In addition, the focus will shift once the
military expands its presence to other areas in Alaska. He
emphasized the importance of ensuring that those military
members and their families will have the same level of service
that members have in the larger communities.
3:20:54 PM
REPRESENTATIVE NELSON stated that the legislature supports
spousal reciprocity for professional licensure that was
mentioned earlier. He asked if there is something else the
legislature can support that will help the active duty members
such as US Army or USAF medics or USN corpsmen.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that he is not allowed to
lobby. However, he could mention what would be beneficial. He
highlighted that the military training is world class and
Alaskans may want to use members' skill sets.
3:22:14 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN stated that Representative Tarr, via text, asked
about HB 53, related to student school enrollment deadlines,
which can be especially difficult for families with special
educational needs.
3:22:33 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR asked if there were specific things related
to schools that the legislature could address, such as
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that he does not have any
specifics on HB 53. Some military families have expressed
concern about not being able to register their children in
schools prior to arriving in Alaska. This would be advantageous
for families and he encouraged the legislature to consider it.
3:23:43 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM remarked that the USAF conducts a study
and issues a "Support of Military Families Report." It covers
every installation in the world. It covers licensure portability
and public education. He offered to provide a copy to the
legislature via the legislative liaison. He pointed out that it
covers student-teacher and student-counselor ratios, which he
encouraged the legislature to consider addressing. The report
also contains other information, such as demographics, he said.
3:25:00 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR offered to follow up on the study. She
stated that HB 53 will address early school registration prior
to military family relocating to Alaska. She reported that HB 53
passed the House and is currently before the Senate Education
Committee.
3:25:57 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER commented that he understands the need for
military readiness. He asked if he had any thoughts on what will
happen to military members who decide not get COVID-19 vaccines.
He said he was unsure what clarity he could provide to active or
reserve military constituents who expressed concern about
repercussions or wanted to know their options. He related his
understanding there are some exemptions to the requirement for
vaccines.
3:27:09 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM responded that the armed services
provide military members information and education about the
vaccine and exemptions. Military members who do not want to be
vaccinated are encouraged to apply for medical or religious
exemptions. He said there is not any stigma for those who apply
for an exemption. Active duty members who don't wish to be
vaccinated but do not qualify for an exemption are informed that
the order requiring COVID-19 vaccinations is a valid, legal
order. He acknowledged that each situation is different so
commanders will deal with these issues on an individual basis.
He stated that obeying orders is a foundation of the military
culture.
CO-CHAIR SHOWER remarked that there is not a great answer for
this awkward situation.
3:29:14 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN asked for an estimate of the number of USAF
members requesting exemptions.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that the USAF numbers in
Alaska were small. He estimated that approximately 2-2.5 percent
requested exemptions, which are being accommodated.
3:30:06 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD expressed concern that the USN flight surgeon
was reporting significant negative results to the vaccine. She
remarked that there is a case in Colorado. She said she wants to
fight for soldiers' freedom. She recalled that then President
Clinton issued an executive order due to the debacle with
anthrax. That order demands informed consent, which would
include information on the vaccine, long-term research,
efficacy, long-term safety and any alternative treatments. She
offered her belief that good alternatives to the COVID-19
vaccine exist. She asked if soldiers could stand on the
executive order from former President Clinton that raised safety
concerns. She asked why soldiers were being forced to take the
new mRNA gene therapy.
3:31:28 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM advised Senator Reinbold that he could
not speak to the specifics about the COVID-19 vaccines. He said
the Secretary of the Air Force and secretaries of the other
services indicate that the law says that when a vaccine is no
longer under emergency authorization and is approved by the
Federal Drug Administration (FDA), that vaccine can be mandatory
for active duty service members. He offered his belief that this
is what the order is based on.
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN said he would allow a limited response. He said
he understands that she has a very different opinion and does
not agree with the protocols that Lieutenant General Krumm has
testified are in place. However, those protocols are coming from
the DOD and USAF, he said.
3:32:03 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD remarked that many believe it is a "bait and
switch." She offered her view that the COVID-19 vaccines have
not gone through the full Phase 3 trials. She characterized the
order as illegitimate and asked if he has complete assurance
that it is not the Pfizer vaccine but is the vaccine that was
licensed for use in the US.
3:33:30 PM
LIEUTENANT GENERAL KRUMM answered that the direction from
Secretary of Defense Austin was that the only authorized
vaccinations were the ones approved by the FDA for normal use,
in this case only Pfizer. He said could not speak to her
specifics. He offered his belief that Pfizer would be the only
COVID-19 vaccine offered to service members but allowances will
be made. For example, if service members preferred to be
administered a Johnson & Johnson vaccine on their own, they
would be allowed to do so even though the vaccine has only been
approved for emergency use.
3:34:57 PM
SENATOR REINBOLD pointed out that there were two Pfizer COVID-19
vaccines, that one is Comirnaty [and the other is BioNTech].
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN recognized Major General Brian Eifler.
^US Army Alaska (USARAK) update
US ARMY ALASKA (USARAK) UPDATE
3:35:16 PM
MAJOR GENERAL BRIAN EIFLER, Commanding General, United States
Army Alaska (USARAK), Deputy Commander, United States Alaskan
Command (ALCOM), Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska,
began a PowerPoint on the USARAK update "America's Arctic
Warriors." He stated that he has been the Commanding General of
the US Army Alaska (USARAK) for just over two months. During
this time he has found Alaska very supportive of its active duty
military troops and veterans.
3:37:05 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER reviewed slide 2, USARAK in the Last Year,
which consisted of four goals and missions of Maintained
Readiness, which read:
Army Arctic Strategy
• Chief of Staff of the Army visit to USARAK (Jul
2020)
• Army Arctic Symposium (Dec 2020)
Army Arctic Strategy (Jan 2021)
Arctic Warrior 21
• Conducted during winter (Feb 2021)
• Assessed Arctic capabilities
• Validated equipping needs and limitations
• Identified strengths and gaps
COVID 19 Response
• Safety of Soldiers, Families, civilians and
communities
• Maintained readiness
• Supported civil authorities
Quality Of Life Improvements
• People as #1 Priority
• Focus on Ft Wainwright
• Improved barracks
• Better food
• Assignment pay
• Talent management
• Better fitness facilities
• Operational readiness
3:37:07 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER stated that last year the Chief of Staff of
the US Army visited the US Army Alaska (USARAK) to conduct Army
Arctic Strategy in line with the Department of Defense (DOD) and
the other branches of services. After decades of split focus in
Iraq and Afghanistan, the US Army has redirected its forces in
Alaska in an effort to develop Arctic expertise for the US Army.
3:37:45 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER related that last year USARAK conducted
Arctic Warrior training exercises for about 1,000 soldiers in
the field. It provides cold-weather training so the troops are
ready for anything. He said it is similar to the training USARAK
conducts in other cold regions around the world. This year, the
US Army will conduct winter training at the Joint Pacific All
Time National Readiness Center for 8,000-10,000 soldiers.
3:38:19 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER stated that the US Army would typically
send its Brigade Combat Teams (BCT) to a joint readiness
training center in Fort Polk, Louisiana or to the National
Training Center in Fort Erwin, California. Instead, due to the
shift to Arctic strategy, it will focus on intensified winter
training. In March, it will conduct its Joint Pacific
Multinational Readiness Capability (JPMRC) using live, virtual,
constructive (GLV) decisive action collective training. Training
will replicate an opposing force with observer controls. This
shift represents major changes from last year as USARAK
continues to develop its Arctic strategies and capabilities.
3:39:13 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER directed attention to the document
"Regaining Arctic Dominance, The US Army in the Arctic" shown on
slide 3. He offered to provide it to members who have not yet
read it. It highlights the need to regain Arctic dominance by
developing the skill sets troops need to fight and win in any
cold region environment.
3:39:41 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER related that USARAK has a split duty. It is
charged with homeland defense, which it supports in the
geographic combatant command USNORTHCOM, but it is also charged
with supporting USINDOPACOM and is responsible to Commander
Admiral Aquilino. USARAK has the only airborne force on the
western side of the globe. The US Army also understands that it
needs that Arctic expertise. Effort is more regionally focused
rather than deploying troops worldwide. He highlighted that the
Himalayas and India are located in USINDOPACOM. USARAK works
with India and Nepal. In fact, Indian troops will come to Alaska
this month for an exercise. He noted that Nepalese soldiers
train in the US Army Leadership Schools.
3:40:41 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER said USARAK is expanding its partnership
and allies and will increase its work with eight Arctic nations.
He acknowledged that USARAK does not work a lot with Russia, but
it does work with NATO countries, including Norway. Norway will
host the NATO conference next month that USARAK representatives
will attend. As part of the Arctic strategy, USARAK will work
with the Alaska National Guard (ANG), other military branches
and communities to work on the skill sets needed to survive and
operate in extreme cold-weather environments. He characterized
it as going back to its roots of 150 years in Alaska.
3:41:55 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER said since USARAK worked to develop the
Arctic strategy for the US Army, it is helping them implement
that strategy. Many things are pre-decision, including
determining what type of forces and equipment are needed and
identifying the doctrine, organization and placement of USARAK
in Alaska. USARAK is informing the US Army on the best ways to
accomplish this.
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER directed attention to the COVID 19 Response
information on slide 2. He offered his view that Lieutenant
General Krumm did a great job articulating the challenges and
orders the military has been given. He reported that about 91
percent of US Army personnel in Alaska is partially vaccinated
and over 80 percent are fully vaccinated. USARAK will continue
to handle any exceptions to the COVID-19 vaccination policy. The
number of troops refusing vaccines continues to dwindle. USARAK
is in the same position as Lieutenant General Krumm mentioned in
terms of adjudicating cases. He said he does not have much more
to offer.
3:43:25 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER directed attention to the Quality of life
improvement bullets on slide 2. He said there are a lot of old
problems with the infrastructure but the US Army is working to
address the infrastructure in the defense budget. He stated that
DOD's defense budget has funded projects on Fort Wainwright.
Further, Remote and Austere Conditions Assignment Incentive Pay,
or RAC-AIP provides a one-time, lump-sum payment for locating to
Fort Wainwright or JBER to offset the initial cost of items
needed to live in Alaska. He stated that many military families
love Alaska and retire here. It shows up in the per capita
figures of veterans living in Alaska.
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER highlighted that not while everyone wants
to be assigned to Alaska or can handle the harsh environment,
but for the first time US Army active duty soldiers can now
request being stationed in Alaska. USARAK has increased its
recruiting efforts to identify people who want to live in
Alaska, are up to the challenges and can thrive here. In terms
of the quality of life, USARAK is investing in modern facilities
at Fort Wainwright, including barracks.
3:45:45 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER emphasized that the Joint Pacific
Multinational Readiness Capability (JPMRC) is a big deal. He
invited members to attend and observe some of the training.
3:46:14 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER turned to slide 3, USARAK: The Army's
Premier Cold Weather Force, consisting of six photographs and
four bullet points. He discussed the bullet points:
• Improving Arctic capability
• Modernizing the force
• Training with allies/partners
• Maintaining readiness
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER highlighted the importance of improving
Arctic capability and developing a cold-weather force. Training
is extended for longer periods, ranging from one to two weeks or
longer to enable troops to get comfortable operating in the
field. Training focuses on surviving, operating, and fighting.
This effort includes increasing school training during the
winter months at the Northern Warfare Training Center (NWTC) and
Black Rapids training site at Fort Wainwright. It provides an
opportunity during this inter-war period to focus on Arctic
strategy, which is the first time it has been offered in several
decades. He acknowledged it will take more than one season to
accomplish readiness.
3:47:09 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER directed attention to the second bullet
point on slide 2 which relates to modernizing the force. He
related that a substantial amount of equipment was not designed
for the extreme-cold weather in the Arctic so it has been
repurposed. The US Army said in its Arctic Strategy, "We've got
to get it right." The US Army will wrestle with when and how to
accomplish these equipment adjustments, but it now recognizes
the challenge. For example, the SUS-V shown in the lower-right
photograph on slide 2 will be replaced with the Oshkosh CATV in
the next two years. It will help USARAK with its mission to have
the all-terrain vehicles.
3:48:07 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER directed attention to the third bullet
point on slide 3, Training with allies/partners. He remarked
that COVID-19 travel restrictions impacted this. USARAK will
continue to develop its relationships with its allies and
partners: Canada, Norway, Japan, South Korea, and Nepal while
maintaining its readiness to support any need in the Arctic or
the USINDOCOM. That is the focus of this command, he said. He
pointed out that Canadians are imbedded in Alaska, providing
part of the leadership team at JBER.
3:49:20 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER turned to slide 4, Teamwork. He stated that
this highlights the great partnership with the DOD and US
allies. He agreed with Lieutenant General Krumm on the strong
relationship the military has in Alaska with the civilian
community. In fact, in his 30 years of service, he has never
seen such a strong relationship between the military and the
civilian community as he has observed in Alaska. Nor has he seen
as many military volunteers as in Anchorage and Fairbanks. He
applauded the symbiotic relationships that have been forged.
Community support is important and makes a difference to service
members. The military does not always have strong community
support, he said.
3:50:32 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN informed members that the committee will not
take any COVID-19 questions since Major General Eifler indicated
he had nothing further to add.
3:50:52 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER said he has a question on infrastructure. USARAK
uses the road system and convoys for transportation, but Alaska
has limited rail and roads. He asked if he could identify any
impediment that the state could address to assist USARAK.
3:51:44 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER responded that the railroad has limited
lines. He related that rapid deployments are done by rail so the
Alaska Railroad provides a life line. He stated that USARAK and
the state have a partnership and will need to work together to
address transportation needs and provide backup plans for
inclement weather or homeland security crisis.
3:53:11 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN stated the audio was breaking up.
3:53:44 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER stated that drone, unmanned aircraft and
aircraft traffic is increasing in Alaska, especially during
hunting seasons. He asked whether the legislature should be
looking at airspace conflicts and if the state should advise the
community via the Aviation Council. He asked if he has observed
or discussed any airspace conflicts.
3:53:55 PM
MAJOR GENERAL EIFLER answered that he has not yet seen this. His
further response was [indiscernible].
3:55:50 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN recognized Rear Admiral Nathan A. Moore.
^US Coast Guard 17th District Update
US COAST GUARD 17TH DISTRICT UPDATE
3:55:55 PM
NATHAN A. MOORE, PE, Rear Admiral; Commander, U.S. Coast Guard
17th District, Juneau, Alaska, began a PowerPoint on the US
Coast Guard, 17th District Update.
3:56:27 PM
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE turned to slide 2, Geostrategic Operations.
He said the US Coast Guard (USCG) has seen increased activity
between the Arctic and the maritime boundary line. He directed
attention to the photographs on slide 2 to illustrate the vessel
activity with Canada, Russia and China. The USCG is unique in
that it is both a law enforcement agency and a military branch
of government under the jurisdiction of Title 10 and Title 14.
This allows the USCG to push back on foreign vessels operating
in and around Alaska's waters. He stated that illegal and
unreported fishing has become a concern. The USCG has seen the
Chinese fishing fleet fishing much closer to US waters than
previously observed. It has also had interactions with the
Russian fishing fleet along the maritime boundary line. The USCG
in Alaska sends ships out of Dutch Harbor, Kodiak and aircraft
is heavily involved in USCG operations throughout the state.
3:58:25 PM
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE turned to slide 3, Domestic Operations. He
stated that the geostrategic work the USCG performs does not
take away from its statutory mission in Alaska, which ranges
from homeland security to permafrost melt that causes leaking
fuel tanks. The USCG routinely sees multiple issues related to
fuel storage problems in remote villages. Unfortunately, fuel
often ends up in the water. He highlighted other activities,
including search and rescue missions and cruise ship safety. He
emphasized the importance of cruise ship safety in Alaskan
waters. Although the cruise industry had limited cruises this
year, the industry plans to gear up to a full schedule in 2022.
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE turned to slide 4, People. He said the men
and women serving in the USCG in remote locations experienced a
difficult year and a half. Further, COVID-19 restrictions have
been tough on people from a resiliency and mental health
standpoint. Some USCG members are stationed at JBER or Kodiak,
but most of the remaining members in Alaska are not stationed at
military bases. These members are often not in close proximity
to military services or other military families.
3:59:05 PM
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE turned to slide 5, Communications
Infrastructure. He stated that communications in high latitudes
is always a concern. He directed attention to the photograph of
the Gulf of Alaska. Southeast Alaska, Kodiak and Southcentral
Alaska are grouped together in Southern Alaska because these
regions are in the Gulf of Alaska. He noted that the shaded
areas show locations of VHS repeaters. He highlighted that there
are not any VHS repeaters in Western or Northwest Alaska so
these areas lack any communication coverage. The USCG monitors
daily any "near miss" cases where a Good Samaritan, usually
another fishing vessel or tug work to rescue vessels in trouble.
Sometimes the USCG must send aircraft to assist. For example,
during a fishing derby, the USCG will send a C-130 to orbit the
area and monitor vessel emergency calls. Although the USCG works
to add infrastructure, as the photographs on slide 5 show, the
conditions are rugged and it is tough to install and maintain
communication infrastructure. He characterized new
infrastructure as a high priority for the USCG in Alaska.
4:02:14 PM
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE turned to slide 6, Shore Infrastructure. He
stated that the Alaska USCG currently receives more federal
funding than ever before. He reported that the current funding
level of $300 billion was acquired from previous appropriations.
The USCG's current projects include rebuilding piers in Kodiak,
adding more housing on a Kodiak base, rebuilding a station,
installing piers and adding housing in Seward and ships in
Sitka. He said he hopes to capitalize on this momentum and move
forward as discussions for homeporting the new Polar Security
Cutter (PSC) and Security Cutter. These are the two classes of
icebreakers the USCG hopes to fund and build during this decade.
He concluded by saying all of the sovereignty work the USCG is
doing along the border requires patrol assets. Thus,
infrastructure has become critically important, he said.
4:03:57 PM
CO-CHAIR SHOWER asked for an update on the deep water port. He
related his understanding that Rear Admiral Moore cannot
advocate for it, but he asked if there was anything the state
could do to help in that effort.
REAR ADMIRAL MOORE answered that a deep water port would be
incredibly valuable to the state and USCG. He remarked that the
USCG would use a deep water port if it was built in northern
Alaska.
4:04:40 PM
CO-CHAIR CLAMAN thanked the presenters for an informative
session.
4:05:09 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Co-Chair Claman adjourned the Joint Armed Services Committee
meeting at 4:05 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 CG D17 JASC Brief.pdf |
JASC 10/5/2021 2:00:00 PM |
|
| JASC 2021 USARAK.pdf |
JASC 10/5/2021 2:00:00 PM |
|
| Alaska Guard JASC 2021.pdf |
JASC 10/5/2021 2:00:00 PM |
|
| CHQ Command Brief_Master for JASC_FINAL.pdf |
JASC 10/5/2021 2:00:00 PM |
|
| 2021 CG D17 JASC Brief - Talking Points.pdf |
JASC 10/5/2021 2:00:00 PM |