Weather patterns
Adapting to climate change is a top priority for the Defense Department. President Obama recently tapped top military officials to help formulate the nation’s climate strategy, and the Pentagon has a new group called the Climate Action Team that’s been reviewing 5,000 installations around the globe. The military also has a lot of money to throw at technological advances such as tactical cooling technologies.
The Pentagon’s climate-adaptation chief says learning to operate in high-temperature atmospheres will be like having night vision. In April, DoD announced the creation of a new Climate Action Team that will be reviewing 5,000 installations around the world. It’s also investing in weather-related technologies such as the U.S. Army’s Climate Assessment Tool and the Department of Homeland Security’s National Weather Service.
Sedentary lifestyle makes skeletons more prone to injuries
Those who are in a sedentary lifestyle have a higher risk of premature death, cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and metabolic syndrome. They are also more susceptible to fractures and joint inflammation.
Many people struggle to get the amount of physical activity needed for optimal health. Office environments can make it difficult to get sufficient exercise. For those who cannot make it to the gym, there are ways to increase activity. For example, parking farther away from the door will help. Taking stairs is another way to boost daily activity.
It has been suggested that a sedentary lifestyle encourages the thinning of the bones, leading to a higher risk of fractures. Over time, the loss of muscle mass can lead to osteoarthritis. Increasing muscle mass and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risks of these health conditions.
Public transportation is integral to the way of life near the Pentagon
Whether you’re a resident of the capital city or a tourist looking for the cheapest way to get around, you’ll be happy to know that public transportation is a mainstay of the region. For instance, the Pentagon has its own metro system, and express bus routes operate along Fort Belvoir Road. Aside from that, the city of Arlington and Alexandria have ample freeway access and numerous amenties. In other words, the military lifestyle can be quite expensive, so a balanced approach is in order.
Aside from public transportation, the biggest obstacle for military families is balancing your time with your kids’ education. In this context, you’ll be pleased to know that the city has some excellent public and private schools, ranging from the elite to the mainstream.
Rules prohibiting service members from engaging in extremist activities
Earlier this year, the Pentagon released new rules prohibiting service members from engaging in extremist activities. The new guidance is designed to address a number of issues, including online activities, a sharper definition of extremist activity and an improved enforcement mechanism.
While many members of the military are not extremists, there are several groups that may be able to attract young service members who have an interest in their ideologies. The Pentagon has a policy that deals with how to report potential contacts, and there are a number of tools for commanders. These include counseling and adverse administrative action.
Although the rule is still unclear, the policy states that it is “unacceptable” for active participation in extremist organizations. It also states that commanders can issue letters of reprimand and adverse administrative separation proceedings.
Doing ALL the things to do while stationed at the Pentagon
Taking a guided tour of the Pentagon is a great way to learn about your job, but you’ll probably have to book your tour months in advance. And there’s a good reason.
The Pentagon’s PFPA, or Pentagon Police, has strict rules regarding how people access the building. The PFPA will issue a one-day visitor badge, but only after checking your credentials. The rules are designed to protect the building and those who work inside it.
The “Pentagon” is not just a name for the building, but also a 25,000-strong workforce. Many people think of the Pentagon as a boring office space. But it’s actually a complex machine that employs thousands of people, including many civilians. It’s a huge machine that does a lot, and you can make a small contribution.
