General Dynamics supports linguist program

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FAIRFAX, Va., June 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Department has tapped General Dynamics Information Technology to manage and expand a civilian corps of volunteer linguists.

Under the $17.3 million award, which has a 33-month period of performance, General Dynamics will work with the Defense Language and National Security Education Office to expand the operational capabilities of the National Language Service Corps for the military and other U.S. government agencies.

The company said it will provide materials and briefing support to build awareness and understanding of NLSC among government agencies. It will also help the NLSC establish regional membership organizations, develop program requirements for each organization and select and prepare members for assignments.

Members of the corps will be given translation and interpretation skills.

"Having supported the NLSC since its inception in 2007, we understand the unique nature of this program," said Ken Slaght, vice president and general manager of Navy and Marine Corps Services for General Dynamics Information Technology.

"We have helped the Department of Defense take the NLSC from a concept to a reality and we look forward to expanding the NLSC into a permanent, large-scale program to ensure that members are properly trained and can respond rapidly to mission needs."