It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Aberdeen Historical Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
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“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after nearly four years of coverage from the team members of ABC Upper Chesapeake. Mom and I were both very pleased with the coverage. ABC was most congenial to do their best to provide Mom with caretakers whom we found suited to Mom's personality and temperament. In the very few cases this was not so, we asked for someone else to care for Mom and this was promptly provided. All in all the caretakers were kind, friendly, competent and helpful, providing Mom with good care and company. Elaine G was very helpful in getting us in contact with the VA so that Mom was able to obtain a monthly benefit entitled to her because of Dad's service in the military. That was a great financial help to us in our particular situation. I strongly recommend this agency for the homebound and ill. They will work with you to do all they can to grant your reasonable requests. Thank you, Elaine and caretakers!”
“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care for my late father during his prolonged decline at age 95. The care enabled him to live in his home with my mom during his final months of life. Elaine worked with me diligently to match my parents' difficult situation with the perfect caregiver. My father was treated with dignity and gentleness when he was no longer able to care for himself at all. It gave our family great peace of mind knowing he was so well cared for.”
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“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I am a past client of this provider I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”
“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations have been invaluable. We are thankful for Always Best! It is a 5 Star Company!!”
“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were recommended to Elaine and ABC. It was the right move. Fortunately for us the second location she showed us was the right fit. It's been a difficult time and having their expertise eased our concerns.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting APG Medium Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Prost German Restaurant Aberdeen, MD or visit Aberdeen Proving Ground - Edgewood Area - South Gate, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – During the first week of February 2025, the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Integrated Logistics Support Center offered a new course for its subject matter experts. Systems Technical Representatives, commonly known as STRs, from around the globe gathered at Aberdeen Proving Ground to take part in advanced training pertinent to the regional sustainment and support that they provide to the warfighter.This Professional Development Course focused on the special roles that STRs play as they...
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – During the first week of February 2025, the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Integrated Logistics Support Center offered a new course for its subject matter experts. Systems Technical Representatives, commonly known as STRs, from around the globe gathered at Aberdeen Proving Ground to take part in advanced training pertinent to the regional sustainment and support that they provide to the warfighter.
This Professional Development Course focused on the special roles that STRs play as they train military and civilian personnel on system maintenance and operations around the world. The two week-long course was aimed at better ways to provide technical advice and instruction on CECOM-managed equipment to various Army commands, as well as the latest hardware and software requirements that are responsible for the safety of our Soldiers.
While the first week helped attending STRs to obtain a better grasp of the various roles they fill and responsibilities they carry on behalf of their Command, the second week of training centered on the finer logistical points and specific programs that help STRs to maintain their agility in the field. Dan Jasper, who traveled from Germany to teach the second week of the course, says “When STRs unify this training with their already demonstrated technical expertise, they can create and apply new resolution approaches to real world challenges.”
As they disseminate knowledge within their ranks and to warfighters globally, CECOM ILSC STRs not only implement assigned systems but develop forward-thinking ways of providing sustainment for the Army of 2030. Integrated Electronic Warfare Action Officer Nathan Hall was one of several Action Officers who led the first week of training and then later assisted Jasper during the various training modules during the second week. Stationed at APG, Hall noted the importance of reaching a wide STR audience, saying “This is a vital investment in the growth and development of our STR community. On a large scale, I believe that this course adds significant value to our STRs by enhancing their communication skills, fostering collaboration, and promoting a unified understanding of our mission and vision.”
During one specific module, Jasper took the STRs through the Department of Defense ‘Integrated Data Environment Global Transportation Network Convergence’ website where logisticians like the attending STRs can examine reports to determine current cargo status. Avionics Electronics Technician Michael Cauley, an STR who was making his first trip to APG for advanced training, called this particular module “a better way to assist units with tracking vital parts.” Cauley went on to laud the larger scope of the training as well, saying “By covering the Logistics Assistance Program, how it’s structured, and the functionality of each role, it helps tie together everything that we do and how it relates up to what our Senior Command Representatives are doing.”
Systems Technical Representatives fill numerous roles simultaneously. They are mentors for the Logistics Assistance Representatives who are in the earlier stages of their careers, and they also act as regional subject matter experts on behalf of CECOM across the globe. Targeted instruction like this course, according to Jasper, “enables STRs to direct the right people, parts, and strategies to achieve the greatest possible impact to mission readiness.” These master technicians are staying atop of their profession so that they can support US Soldiers worldwide when they need it the most.
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Aberdeen Proving Ground officials unveiled a refurbished day room in unaccompanied housing late February, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring a generous donation from the AUSA MG Harry Greene Chapter.The new facility, designed as a welcoming space for soldiers to relax and connect, was formally dedicated during a ceremony attended by military leaders, service members, and community partners.Attending APG leader, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Denson emphasized the importance of the...
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Aberdeen Proving Ground officials unveiled a refurbished day room in unaccompanied housing late February, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring a generous donation from the AUSA MG Harry Greene Chapter.
The new facility, designed as a welcoming space for soldiers to relax and connect, was formally dedicated during a ceremony attended by military leaders, service members, and community partners.
Attending APG leader, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Denson emphasized the importance of the day room saying, “Many times, soldiers are isolated in their individual rooms and miss the opportunity to build strong relationships. The new dayroom will give the space needed to build unity, strong teams, and solve problems that they might be experiencing.”
Denson added, “We could action [the day room] quickly for America’s sons and daughters without waiting on funding and this would show them through “action” your voice was heard.”
The donation from the AUSA MG Harry Greene Chapter – an organization recognized for its longstanding support of military initiatives – underscores a shared commitment to the well-being of the base community. The day room features modern amenities and comfortable gathering areas intended to serve as a hub for off-duty relaxation and social interaction among soldiers in unaccompanied housing.
U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command/U.S Army Aberdeen Test Center soldier, Specialist McKinney Credit, said he’s now, “Looking forward to hang out with the soldiers who live [there].”
During the event, attendees toured the renovated facility, which includes updated furnishings, advanced audiovisual equipment, and a refreshed interior designed to promote relaxation and connection. Leaders highlighted that this investment in quality living spaces is a vital part of sustaining morale and readiness at Aberdeen Proving Ground.
Garrison Commander, COL Phil Mundweil, addressed the soldiers at the ceremony saying, “Your hard work and sacrifices are the backbone of our mission, and we are committed to ensuring that you have every resource necessary to succeed both on and off duty.”
Representatives from the AUSA MG Harry Greene Chapter expressed pride in supporting the project.
Denson walked around the space with an AUSA Chapter member who said the new refurbished space is pretty awesome.
The ceremony concluded with a commitment from base leadership to continue exploring ways to enhance the quality of life for all personnel. As soldiers and their families enjoy the benefits of the new day room, Aberdeen Proving Ground reinforces its pledge to invest in the welfare of its military community.
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – The senior civilian for the U.S. military’s premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) formation retired after 40 years of combined civil service and uniformed service, April 3.Charles Hughes, the senior civilian and the deputy to the commanding general of the 20th CBRNE Command, was recognized during his retirement ceremony on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.In addition to serving as the senior civilian, Hughes served as the chief of staff for the 20th C...
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – The senior civilian for the U.S. military’s premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) formation retired after 40 years of combined civil service and uniformed service, April 3.
Charles Hughes, the senior civilian and the deputy to the commanding general of the 20th CBRNE Command, was recognized during his retirement ceremony on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.
In addition to serving as the senior civilian, Hughes served as the chief of staff for the 20th CBRNE Command from June 2023 to June 2024.
Brig. Gen. W Bochat, the commanding general of the 20th CBRNE Command, hosted the widely attended ceremony at the 20th CBRNE Command Headquarters. Bochat recognized Hughes for his enduring contribution to the command and the Soldiers and Army civilians who serve in it.
“You are a warrior,” said Bochat. “I thank you for everything you have done here.”
Hughes, a retired senior noncommissioned officer and Army civilian, became the senior civilian at the 20th CBRNE Command on Nov 1, 2022.
Hughes retired from the U.S. Army as a master sergeant while serving at the St. Louis, Missouri, Recruiting Battalion. During his 24 years of uniformed Army service, Hughes was stationed across the nation in a wide variety of Army recruiting and leadership assignments.
Originally from Hickory, Mississippi, Hughes served as the deputy operations officer for the multifunctional and deployable 20th CBRNE Command before becoming the senior civilian. Hughes served in the Operations Directorate at the 20th CBRNE Command Headquarters since 2010.
He began his Army civilian career as a GS-09 at 20th CBRNE Command in 2006 before climbing the ranks all the way to GS-15.
Hughes earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and graduated from the Center for Creative Leadership in Greensboro, North Carolina. Hughes also graduated from the Civilian Education System’s Advanced Course, the Marketing Information Course and the U.S. Navy’s Staff Officer Planning Course.
Headquartered on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, in Northeast Maryland’s science, technology and security corridor, the 20th CBRNE Command is home to 75 percent of the active-duty U.S. Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) specialists, as well as the 1st Global Medical Laboratory, CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity, Weapons of Mass Destruction Coordination Teams and Nuclear Disablement Teams (Infrastructure).
From 19 bases in 16 states, Soldiers and Army civilians take on the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and allied operations.
As the senior civilian and deputy to the commanding general, Hughes formulated strategic plans, policies and programs in support of CBRNE operations, readiness and force structure, as well as technical and civilian workforce acquisition, development, employment and recruitment. He also revitalized civilian professional development training.
Hughes thanked everyone in the command for supporting the Soldiers and Army civilians who conduct lifesaving and mission-enabling operations around the world.
“It’s not about me. You are what make this command great,” said Hughes, who will retire in Alabama.
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – On March 28, 2025, U.S. Army Garrison Aberdeen Proving Ground hosted a poignant National Vietnam War Veterans Day Commemoration that brought together our community to honor a legacy of service, sacrifice, and resilience.Many gathered at the APG recreation center to recognize National Vietnam War Veteran’s Day, observed annually on March 29, to recognize veterans who served in the US military during the Vietnam War. March 29 was chosen for this observance, because on March 29, 1973, Military A...
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – On March 28, 2025, U.S. Army Garrison Aberdeen Proving Ground hosted a poignant National Vietnam War Veterans Day Commemoration that brought together our community to honor a legacy of service, sacrifice, and resilience.
Many gathered at the APG recreation center to recognize National Vietnam War Veteran’s Day, observed annually on March 29, to recognize veterans who served in the US military during the Vietnam War. March 29 was chosen for this observance, because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MAC-V) was disbanded, and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam.
Vietnam Veterans represented nearly 10% of their generation – 3 million Americans served in Vietnam, with 58,318 making the ultimate sacrifice, and thousands more were wounded, missing, or held as prisoners of war. Vietnam Veterans fought under the most challenging conditions, and when their service ended, were not always welcomed when they returned home.
“The Vietnam War 50th Commemoration is our opportunity to celebrate the Veterans' and families' service and sacrifice. We honor all who served in the U.S. military, and their families, at any time between November 1, 1955 - May 15, 1975, regardless of duty location,” said APG Garrison Commander, Col. Philip J. Mundweil, during his opening remarks.
The event began with a solemn tribute to our local Vietnam War Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. With heartfelt reverence, family members, friends, and fellow servicemembers gathered to remember those who gave everything in defense of freedom. Their sacrifice stands as a lasting reminder of the courage and commitment that underpin our nation's values.
Next, the ceremony paid tribute to the memory of those who served valiantly but are no longer with us, along with their families. This segment of the program provided a space for reflection and gratitude, acknowledging the enduring impact of these heroes and the sacrifices made by their loved ones. The presence of family members underscored the community's deep appreciation for their contributions, bridging the gap between past and present.
The celebration culminated in recognizing the Vietnam veterans who were able to attend in person. Their presence brought a personal touch to the ceremony, allowing them to share memories, express pride, and engage with the community they helped shape. Their stories of valor and perseverance resonated throughout the event, reinforcing the importance of honoring service across generations.
Charles McIntosh said, “I have never felt so honored at a ceremony. This is incredible.”
McIntosh served in the Air Force for 20 years from 1971 – 1992. His three brothers also served in the Armed Forces.
Enhancing the event’s significance was guest speaker Mr. Bob Cassilly, Harford County Executive. His connection to Vietnam-era Veterans runs deep on a personal level—his oldest brother, Joe, an Army Ranger who served with the 25th Infantry Division, was wounded in the jungles of Vietnam in 1970. After returning to the local area, Joe went on to become Harford’s longest-serving state’s attorney.
"I was 10 years old when my brother went off to serve. I remember coming home from school one day and life changed. I saw my mother crying on the porch and saying something about my brother Joe being seriously injured. He was a paraplegic. He never walked again," he said.
In his address, Mr. Cassilly highlighted the collective responsibility to preserve the legacy of our veterans. He praised their heroic contributions and the vital role they continue to play in inspiring future generations. His words served as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to support and recognize the sacrifices made by these brave men and women.
"I'm so happy to see the attention our injured warriors received today, but you know that wasn't the case then. It wasn't the wounded-warrior–friendly ethos we see today," he said.
The Aberdeen Proving Ground National Vietnam War Veterans Day Celebration was more than a ceremony—it was a heartfelt tribute to honor those who have served, sacrifice, and inspire. As the community reflected on the past and looked toward the future, the event reinforced a timeless message: the legacy of our Vietnam War veterans will forever remain an integral part of our national identity.
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A ceremony honoring legacy, tradition, and military leadership was held Friday, March 7, 2025, at Aberdeen Proving Ground as nine noncommissioned officers (NCO) were formally inducted.The event honored SFC Thomas Davis, SSG Jeremy Betancourt, SGT Kirsten Bell, SGT Ryan Conway, SGT Brianna Cruz, SGT Gabriel Williams, SGT Samantha Ann Pean, CPL Michael Giuffrida and CPL Noah Perez for their exemplary service and leadership. The induction, part of a series of commemorative events at the historic insta...
ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A ceremony honoring legacy, tradition, and military leadership was held Friday, March 7, 2025, at Aberdeen Proving Ground as nine noncommissioned officers (NCO) were formally inducted.
The event honored SFC Thomas Davis, SSG Jeremy Betancourt, SGT Kirsten Bell, SGT Ryan Conway, SGT Brianna Cruz, SGT Gabriel Williams, SGT Samantha Ann Pean, CPL Michael Giuffrida and CPL Noah Perez for their exemplary service and leadership. The induction, part of a series of commemorative events at the historic installation, underscored the Army’s ongoing commitment to developing its next generation of leaders.
Bell, Defense Centers of Public Health - Aberdeen, chose to become a NCO because of the leadership and mentorship she received.
Bell said, “I was inspired by the leadership and mentorship that a very few of my NCOs provided to me and encouraged me to be that example for other soldiers. I realized that becoming an NCO would allow me to guide others while contributing to something much larger than myself.”
During the ceremony, the inductees received their insignia amid formal military traditions that included the playing of the national anthem and the ceremonial transfer of the unit’s emblem. Family members and guests gathered to witness the momentous occasion, many expressing pride in the accomplishments of their loved ones.
The program featured remarks by senior officers who outlined the increased responsibilities and expectations that come with the elevated rank. The remarks emphasized that the induction is not only a personal milestone but also a reaffirmation of the Army’s core values—duty, honor, and commitment to country.
CSM Tamisha Love, Installation Management Command – Sustainment (ID-S), was the ceremony’s guest speaker. Love reflected on her early experience becoming an NCO leader and addressed the inductees saying, “I quickly learned that more was expected of me as a noncommissioned officer than just a typical leadership style of being present.”
Love added that her senior NCOs taught her how to take care of soldiers and emphasized the role each inductee has in shaping today’s soldiers.
As the event concluded, the newly inducted noncommissioned officers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and a renewed commitment to leadership. By reciting the NCO Creed, they vowed to carry forward the traditions of excellence at Aberdeen Proving Ground and to meet future challenges with resolve and professionalism.
The induction ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also served as a reminder of the critical role that effective leadership plays in maintaining a ready and capable fighting force.
Bell says being inducted “has broadened my awareness of the opportunity to aid in the growth and development of fellow soldiers as well as my own.”
With these inductions, the Army reinforces its commitment to fostering leaders who are prepared to navigate the complexities of an evolving global landscape.
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