Carole Winterhalter of Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, discusses flame resistance with Gov. Deval Patrick during his visit to the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center.

On June 15, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick visited the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center (SSC) to receive an overview and learn about the work done there. The governor was briefed on a number of topics, including body armor advances; uniform design and collaboration between the Army, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard and Special Operation Forces; Department of Defense combat feeding; and the collaboration with Massachusetts State Police on the Law Enforcement Advanced Protection System.

While viewing the displays and listening to the briefings, Patrick asked questions, made comments, and occasionally joked with the presenters. At the conclusion of his visit, Patrick said he appreciated the invitation to visit SSC.

Secretary Daniel O'Connell, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development for Massachusetts, and State Senator Karen Spilka were among various other public officials who accompanied Gov. Patrick on the visit.