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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

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

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Home Care In Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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.

 In-Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 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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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.”

Facundo K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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!”

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TESTIMONIALS

“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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TESTIMONIALS

“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.”

Keith S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Alan L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Mz C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Monica C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

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TESTIMONIALS

“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!!”

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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

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What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD?

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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.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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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.

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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.

 Senior Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Types of Elderly Care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal 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:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

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:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

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.

 In-Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Benefits of Home Care in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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:

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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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

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.

 Elderly Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Affordable 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:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your MD's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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.

Assisted Living Referral Services

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.


Respite Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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:

  • Dacota Assisted Living
  • Chimes Inc
  • Covenant Care Assisted Living
  • Margaret Nahrgang
  • Liv-N-Well Asst Living
  • Vpcbh
Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

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.

 In-Home Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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.

 Elderly Care Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Latest News in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

Retired Army civilian shares experience with retirement process at 20th CBRNE Command

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A retired U.S. Army civilian shared his personal experience with the retirement process with Army civilians who serve at the U.S. military's premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) command, March 5.Michael R. Williams, who previously served in the 20th CBRNE Command’s G6 Communications Directorate, spoke at the monthly Army civilian professional development session at the 20th CBRNE Command Headquarters on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.From 19 bases ...

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A retired U.S. Army civilian shared his personal experience with the retirement process with Army civilians who serve at the U.S. military's premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) command, March 5.

Michael R. Williams, who previously served in the 20th CBRNE Command’s G6 Communications Directorate, spoke at the monthly Army civilian professional development session at the 20th CBRNE Command Headquarters on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

From 19 bases in 16 states, Soldiers and Army civilians from 20th CBRNE Command take on the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and multinational operations.

Based on his year of retirement, Williams shared his timeline for receiving his interim and full retired pay and discussed many other important details that Army civilians should consider before deciding to retire.

He encouraged all Army civilians to learn as much as possible about their retirement benefits.

“This is my experience,” said Williams. “Everyone is going to have their unique experience. You all have unique careers.”

Born and raised in an American military family in Germany, Williams joined the U.S. Army in 1981. He served as a unit supply specialist and Army recruiter during his 20 years in uniform.

He began his civil service career at the Portland, Oregon, Recruiting Battalion before volunteering to deploy with the Army Corps of Engineers to Iraq where he led a team responsible for IT Customer Support.

Williams joined the 20th CBRNE Command in 2008 where he worked on communications planning, program management, logistics, records management, the command inspection program and general administration.

He later served at U.S. Africa Command’s J6 Directorate where he focused on interoperability and cybersecurity as a program manager in the Coalition Division.

In 2019, he returned to 20th CBRNE Command where he managed headquarters and major subordinate command communications planning and support requirements.

Since he retired, Williams has become a certified pickleball coach.

Charles Hughes, the deputy to the commanding general, has developed a monthly Army civilian professional development program since becoming the senior Army civilian at 20th CBRNE Command in November 2022.

Hughes thanked Williams for sharing his experience and encouraged all Army civilians to learn all that they can about retirement and other Army civilian benefits.

Making a difference: APG civilians graduate from senior leadership program

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Family, friends, co-workers, and leadership celebrated 36 civilian employees for completing the APG Senior Leadership Cohort program during a ceremony at the Mallette Training Facility Feb. 15, 2024.The APG Senior Leadership Cohort program was established in 2009 to develop and sustain a cohesive cadre of high-impact leaders within the APG community. Highlights during the 10-month program include:U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Deputy to the Commanding General Liz Miranda, an al...

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Family, friends, co-workers, and leadership celebrated 36 civilian employees for completing the APG Senior Leadership Cohort program during a ceremony at the Mallette Training Facility Feb. 15, 2024.

The APG Senior Leadership Cohort program was established in 2009 to develop and sustain a cohesive cadre of high-impact leaders within the APG community. Highlights during the 10-month program include:

U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Deputy to the Commanding General Liz Miranda, an alumna of Cohort 4, provided opening remarks. Miranda said she has watched the Cohort program grow and adapt to changes; however, the goal remains: to develop impactful leaders for APG and the Army. With the graduation of Cohort 15, the program has more than 500 alumni.

According to Miranda, a core strength of the Cohort program is that it is an installation-wide program. Throughout the course, participants receive valuable networking opportunities with their peers and leadership.

“Its inclusivity contributes to a better understanding of APG-wide challenges and also enhances cooperation and collaboration across organizations,” she said.

Miranda encouraged graduates to spread the word about the Cohort’s benefits.

“That is how the program will continue for another 15 years,” she said.

CECOM Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Conaty, who served as the guest speaker, said developing leaders is fundamental to the Army. The graduates represent the “best and brightest of Aberdeen Proving Ground,” he added. Conaty challenged the graduates to think of ways to inspire others to serve and exemplify Army leadership.

“Each one of you has made tremendous contributions over your career, invaluable contributions, in ways that you may never know,” he said. “Your honorable service has made a difference for many, and your continued development ensures the Army retains a competitive edge.”

Conaty thanked Cohort 15, on behalf of America’s Soldiers, for being dedicated Army professionals.

“I know they can count on you,” he said.

Leaders as storytellers

Three graduates shared their reflections on their experience in the program: Allan Brown, with the Army Contracting Command-APG; April Cortina, with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center; and Thomas Digliani, with DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory.

Cortina discussed how Cohort caused her to reflect on how challenges in her personal life have impacted her as a leader. Through the process of Cohort, she saw how adversity can cause a leader to grow in unexpected ways. She told the audience she was able to be more vulnerable now, sharing that she

endured a marriage separation during the pandemic.

“Cohort helped me to gain the insight in how everything that I was doing during my separation- being authentic, owning who I am, connecting to my purpose and being intentional with my communication and actions could be applicable to my role as a leader,” she said. “As I look forward, I want to continue these elements into my next chapter of life as I continue to develop my leadership skills.”

Cohort 15 reflections

Cohort Program Director Claire Meany, a contractor supporting CECOM, described Cohort 15 as conscientious, curious, and always asking questions. Meany said she appreciated the valuable feedback from this Cohort, which will ultimately help make the program better.

Cohort 15 graduates also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting and defending the U.S. Constitution by taking the oath of office administered by Christopher Barrett, the executive director of the Army Evaluation Center.

All graduates received a certificate and a coin presented by Miranda and the Director of the C5ISR Center’s Engineering and Systems Integration Directorate Elizabeth Ferry.

Cohort 15 graduates

Irina Arevalo

David Armstrong

Matt Bendel

Jennifer Brillhart-Teer

Allan Brown

Alison Cheung

Marshal Childers

Courtney Conner

April Cortina

E’Meka Davis

Thomas Digliani

Jason Dirner

Patrick Doyle

Michael Fields

Reygan Freeney

Craig Hershey

Kristin Hoog

Danielle Kelley

Michael Landolt

Marianne Lazzaro

Cheryl Litteral

Michael Mannion

Brent Mantooth

Christopher Matthews

William Myers

Agustin Ramirez

Douglas Reuter

Dudley Rodericks

Lauren Rossi

James Schliesske

Christopher Scheerer

Jamie Soriano

Bradley Stanley

Christopher Waits

Deborah Welch

Aladrian Wetzel

For more photos, visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/usagapg/albums/72177720315291750.

Premier CBRNE command participates in Exercise Freedom Shield in South Korea

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea — The U.S. Department of Defense’s premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) command participated in Exercise Freedom Shield in South Korea.American Soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command trained with Eighth Army and Combined Forces Command units during the exercise, with some of their personnel in South Korea while others supported remotely from Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, March 4-14.Conducted to strengthen the Republic of Korea-U.S. ...

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea — The U.S. Department of Defense’s premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) command participated in Exercise Freedom Shield in South Korea.

American Soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command trained with Eighth Army and Combined Forces Command units during the exercise, with some of their personnel in South Korea while others supported remotely from Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, March 4-14.

Conducted to strengthen the Republic of Korea-U.S. Alliance, Freedom Shield 2024 is a routine and defensive-oriented exercise designed to strengthen security on the Korean Peninsula and stability in Northeast Asia.

The annual exercise integrated live training and constructive simulations that brought together South Korean, U.S. and multinational sending states.

The training events focused on conducting multi-domain operations leveraging land, sea, air, cyber and space assets with emphasis on counter nuclear operations and non-kinetic effects.

Soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command routinely deploy to South Korea for exercises and send a Chemical Corps company to support rotational forces.

The Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington-based 45th CBRN Company (Hazardous Response) recently arrived in South Korea for a rotational deployment in support of the 23rd CBRN Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division and Eighth Army.

Soldiers from the 45th CBRN Company serve near the Korean Demilitarized Zone, the world’s most heavily guarded border.

Maj. Gen. Daryl O. Hood, the commanding general of 20th CBRNE Command, and Command Sgt. Maj. Dave Silva, the 20th CBRNE Command senior enlisted leader, met with Soldiers at the 23rd CBRN Battalion Headquarters on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, during the exercise.

Maj. Steven M. Modugno, the public affairs director for the 20th CBRNE Command, said the 20th CBRNE Command routinely trains with Republic of Korea CBRN Defense Command forces on the Korean Peninsula and at combat training centers in the United States.

“The exercise focused on building stronger bonds and improving interoperability with our partners in the ROK-U.S. Alliance,” said Modugno, a native of Santa Clarita, California, who previously served with the South Korea-based 2nd Infantry Division as a Chemical Corps officer. “For more than 70 years, we have trained with South Korean troops and we will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them on Freedom’s Frontier.”

From 19 bases in 16 states, Soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command take on the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and allied operations.

Headquartered on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the 20th CBRNE Command is home to 75 percent of the active-duty U.S. Army’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) specialists and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians, as well as the 1st Area Medical Laboratory, CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity, five Weapons of Mass Destruction Coordination Teams and three Nuclear Disablement Teams (Infrastructure).

Retired US Army Chemical Corps command sergeant major named Defender of Liberty

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A one-of-a-kind U.S. Army command recognized its fifth command sergeant major as the 2023 Defender of Liberty.The 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command selected retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Graham as the 2023 Defender of Liberty.Graham is the first retired enlisted leader to earn the prestigious award.Established in 2019 on the command's 15th anniversary, the Defender of Liberty Award is presented to leaders who have made a signifi...

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – A one-of-a-kind U.S. Army command recognized its fifth command sergeant major as the 2023 Defender of Liberty.

The 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command selected retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Graham as the 2023 Defender of Liberty.

Graham is the first retired enlisted leader to earn the prestigious award.

Established in 2019 on the command's 15th anniversary, the Defender of Liberty Award is presented to leaders who have made a significant impact on the U.S. military’s only multifunctional CBRNE command.

Retired Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Richard Cody was the first recipient of the award in 2019 for authoring the memo that led to the creation of the 20th CBRNE Command while serving as the deputy chief of staff of the Army for operations and plans.

The command selected retired Maj. Gen. John C. Doesburg as the 2020 Defender of Liberty. The 2021 Defender of Liberty was retired Maj. Gen. Keith R. Wendel. The 2022 Defender of Liberty was retired Lt. Gen. Leslie C. Smith.

Headquartered on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the 20th CBRNE Command is home to 75 percent of the active-duty U.S. Army’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) specialists and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians, as well as the 1st Area Medical Laboratory, CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity, five Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Coordination Teams and three Nuclear Disablement Teams (Infrastructure).

From 19 bases in 16 states, Soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command take on the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and allied operations.

A native of Warren, Ohio, and Chemical Corps Soldier, Graham served in leadership positions from squad leader to command sergeant major during his 31 years in the U.S. Army. Graham deployed for Operation Desert Storm and Operation Joint Endeavor. He also deployed to Iraq three times during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In addition to serving as the first sergeant for the 21st Chemical Company, Graham served as the senior enlisted leader of the 23rd CBRN Battalion and 48th Chemical Brigade before becoming the command sergeant major for 20th CBRNE Command.

Today, Graham serves as the vice president for Noncommissioned Officer and Soldier Affairs for the Major General Harry Green Chapter of the Association of the United States Army.

Graham earned a master’s degree in business management from Excelsior College and graduated from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy.

Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John C. Doesburg, the 2020 Defender of Liberty; retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William E. King IV, the sixth commanding general of 20th CBRNE Command; and retired U.S. Army Col. Robert Gutjahr, the president of the AUSA Major General Harry Green Chapter, all praised Graham for his leadership and commitment to Soldiers.

Mary Jane Jernigan, the Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) for northern Maryland, presented a coin and letter to Graham for his service.

Maj. Gen. Daryl O. Hood, the current commanding general of 20th CBRNE Command, hosted the event that wrapped up a three-day commander’s forum at the command headquarters. Hood thanked Graham for his leadership and continued support of the one-of-a-kind command.

Command Sgt. Maj. Dave Silva, the current senior enlisted leader of the 20th CBRNE Command, said Graham mentored him while in uniform and continues to mentor him today.

“Talk to anyone who served under him or beside him and then you will be inspired,” said Silva, a Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician from Long Beach, California. “He gave me the opportunity to lead and that gave me the opportunity to stand here and sing his praises from the position he proudly held before me.”

Silva said Graham was an example of the kind of leadership that has made the command the premier CBRNE command in the U.S. military.

“It’s my pleasure to welcome you into this prestigious and small group,” said Silva. “It is neat that he is the first enlisted precipitant of this title and this award. I can’t think of a better leader than retired Command Sgt. Maj. Ken Graham.”

Graham said he was honored to be named a Defender of Liberty by the command.

“I’m proud to stand next to the former recipients of this Defender of Liberty award,” said Graham. “I look forward to continuing to serve this organization.”

One-of-a-kind US Army expeditionary medical laboratory welcomes new commander

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – The U.S. Army’s only mobile medical laboratory welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Sept. 7.Col. Dubray Kinney, Sr., assumed command of the 1st Area Medical Laboratory from Col. Matthew J. Grieser during the widely attended ceremony.Headquartered on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the 1st AML “Mad Scientists” are part of the 44th Medical Brigade and 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives ...

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – The U.S. Army’s only mobile medical laboratory welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Sept. 7.

Col. Dubray Kinney, Sr., assumed command of the 1st Area Medical Laboratory from Col. Matthew J. Grieser during the widely attended ceremony.

Headquartered on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the 1st AML “Mad Scientists” are part of the 44th Medical Brigade and 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command, the U.S. military’s premier multifunctional CBRNE formation.

American Soldiers from 1st Area Medical Laboratory deploy as a unit or in task-organized teams to perform surveillance, laboratory testing and health hazard assessments of environmental, occupational, endemic disease and CBRNE threats to support force protection and Weapons of Mass Destruction missions.

Activated in 1942, the 1st Area Medical Laboratory has served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. Soldiers from 1st AML deployed to help contain the Ebola outbreak in Liberia in 2014 – 2015. The 1st AML was also the first Army unit to deploy to U.S. military installations overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Col. Michael F. Belenky, the commander of the Fort Liberty, North Carolina-based 44th Medical Brigade, hosted the ceremony. Belenky thanked and congratulated Grieser for his successful command tour.

“As the commander of the Army’s only expeditionary and tactical medical laboratory, your outstanding leadership, pursuit of excellence and intense dedication to mission readiness have directly contributed to the success of the 1st AML,” said Belenky, a native of Arnold, Maryland.

Belenky praised Grieser for his efforts to build partnerships around the world during visits to South Korea, Poland, Germany, Romania, Canada and Australia.

A native of Mulino, Oregon, Grieser will retire from the U.S. Army early next year.

During his 32 years in uniform, Grieser has deployed to Afghanistan four times and Iraq five times and has also served in Haiti, Panama and New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

Grieser said the highlight of his command tour had been serving alongside the Mad Scientists as they innovated and tackled challenges daily. Grieser said that 1st AML is a team of teams with Soldiers who constantly seek to deepen their expertise and master their profession.

Soldiers from 1st AML routinely share their expertise on endemic and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) threats with allies around the world.

Kinney started his U.S. Army career as a combat medic before becoming a commissioned Medical Service Corps officer.

A graduate of the University of Maryland at Eastern Shore, Kinney has deployed to Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq and Afghanistan.

“I can’t help but feel humbled and privileged that a poor kid from the inner city in Washington, D.C., who was raised by a single mom is blessed to make it this far,” said Kinney. “Only in America and only in God’s country could this happen.”

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