Army Secretary Geren here in surprise Fort Drum visit

FORT DRUM — Army Secretary Peter M. Geren visited the installation Tuesday to talk to soldiers and families of the 10th Mountain Division.

His visit was unannounced and not open to the public. A story published by the American Forces Press Service said he spent time with wounded soldiers assigned to the Warrior In Transition Unit, 3rd Battalion, 85th Mountain Infantry.

After reviewing the transition unit, Mr. Geren went to the Fort Drum/Samaritan Health Clinic, Coleman Avenue. He saw the partnership between Fort Drum and the community, which opened the clinic in June 2008 to boost the number of mental health care providers in the region.

Rep. John M. McHugh, R-Pierrepont Manor, has been nominated to replace Mr. Geren later this year.