The Program:
Rotarian of Day Jim Kitz introduced guest speaker, Michael McGurk, Colonel, U.S. Army (retired) and now Director, Research and Analysis at Fort Eustis, where he is heading implementation of the new combat fitness test for Army Center for Initial Military Training. This is first update of the combat-readiness physical test in over 40 years.
The old test included only three events: two minutes of push-ups, two minutes of sit ups, and a two-mile run. There were differing standards for males and females standards, as well as age standards.
The new test, designed to test the full body, has six events, with standards the same for men and women. Soldiers must complete a three-repetition maximum deadlift; standing power throw; arm extensions; sprint-drag-carry; lateral sprints carrying 40-pound kettle balls; another sprint; leg tucks; then a two-mile run to finish the test.
McGurk and colleagues worked with other organizations and scientists to create physical testing events that relate to specific movements, tasks, jobs and responsibilities of Army personnel. For example, the kettle ball sprint simulates a Soldier's task of lifting heavy loads across distances, like carrying ammo cans or multiple weapon systems. A push-up doesn’t really relate to such a job.
McGurk explained that the test is an investment to enhance performance and lifestyle and ultimately retain next-generation soldiers, who on average cost $25,000 to recruit and another $30,000 to complete basic training. He noted that 75% of 18-24 year-olds don’t qualify for Army because of physical or other limitations. Rather than, "I'll join the Army to shape up," the proposition has now shifted to “I need to get in shape before I can join the Army,” he said.
A book was presented to Colonel McGurk that will be donated in his honor to our school of day, Northside Middle School.
The Meeting:
President Pam convened the luncheon with recitation of pledge of allegiance and four-way test. Jim Baker delivered the invocation. Musical accompaniment was provided by John Cameron and Fred Whitman.
Joe New reported that he had lunch with Bob Latimer who is progressing well.
Pam recognized the death of noted Norfolk attorney Grover Outland, who was a former Norfolk Rotary member and Nancy Chandler’s brother.
Pam reminded members of an upcoming volunteer opportunity at Good Mojo on Saturday, June 29th.
Happy Bucks:
- Carlisle Wroton for his wife’s good recovery from hip surgery;
- Lisa Chandler’s for her mother-in-law, Nancy’s, birthday;
- Chip Vogan, in memory of Grover Outland who gave up his “general law” classification so that Chip could join the club;
- Joe New for his granddaughter’s graduation from Maury High;
- Lois Kercher celebrated her birthday in New York City; and
- Dianna Starkey celebrating her son’s graduation from Virginia Tech and his acceptance into a master’s program at Duke.
Gus Stuhlreyer explained a new option for contributing to The Rotary Foundation. In July, a $25 contribution option will be added to the Club dues statement. If you wish to contribute in a different way (such as recurring contributions through www.rotary.org or from an IRA), simply cross out the amount of the contribution, recalculate and make the revised payment.
Bill McInnis conducted the raffle; Sharon Laderberg won the daily, but left the "Big Pot" to ride on.
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