Jewish War Veterans Come Together to Help Veterans Village Las Vegas

Veterans Village Las Vegas, is a comprehensive housing and resource facility for U.S. veterans and their families and located in a repurposed Econo Lodge motel on Las Vegas Boulevard, has a new support group – more than 60 members of the Jewish War Veterans Murray L. Rosen Post 64. According to Senior Vice Commander Steve Seiden, the group recently signed a Memo of Understanding with Veterans Village to establish a formal working relationship.  The group’s Edward Kline Memorial Homeless Veterans Fund, Inc. will underwrite housing at Veterans Village, as its funds allow, for vets and their families who need temporary housing and other critical services.

“Our group, which is comprised primarily of war veterans who served in all conflicts since WWII, developed an Independence Day Program several years ago to help find housing for homeless vets and their families,” Seiden said.  “But given limited resources in the community, particularly for disabled veterans with families, we could only do so much. As we formulated a plan to enlarge our scope and our efforts, we became aware of Veterans Village. Ever since our first visit to Veterans Village, we have been meeting regularly with its founder, Arnold Stalk, and directing much of our efforts and donations to supporting this remarkable public/private partnership that does so much to help those who have defended our freedoms.”   

Seiden, who also serves as president of the Edward Kline Memorial Homeless Veterans Fund, Inc., formerly referred to as the Independence Day Program, says most of its members are between 65 and 80 years of age with a few in their 90s, but the group also has younger members who served in the Korean and Vietnam wars.  “We are actively recruiting younger members who share our passion for helping veterans and to continue our good work for years to come,” Seiden said. 

Veterans Village opened in 2012 in a renovated Econo Lodge Motel with 120 rooms.  Thanks to the ongoing generosity of the Home Depot Foundation and hundreds of hours provided by Home Depot employees, the facility is undergoing a comprehensive retrofit and update.   In addition to providing temporary housing for vets and their families, Veterans Village provides a comprehensive roster of services through partnerships with other community organizations and government agencies, including employment training and referrals, continuing education and degree programs, exercise training, medical services, mental health counseling and special veteran-centric activities and events.

According to Arnold Stalk, Veterans Village founder and visionary, the contributions of the Jewish War Veterans are especially meaningful.  “The group’s deep understanding of the challenges often faced by war veterans fuels their passion and enthusiasm for doing all they can to help,” Stalk said.  “When members of the Jewish War Veterans visit us, they always put a smile on the faces of our residents.  We are grateful for their support and appreciate their contagious enthusiasm for helping veterans.”

“There are all sorts of resources there,” said Seiden of the an all-encompassing facility that provides basic necessities like food and medical services, but also specialized services for those with substance abuse and other conditions. “For vets, Veterans Village is much more than just a roof over their head,” Seiden said.  “It’s a place to heal and get critical help for success in the future. We’re excited about our relationship with Veterans Village. “

About Veterans Village:

Veterans Village is located at 1150 Las Vegas Boulevard in a repurposed Econo Lodge motel.  It serves as a temporary housing facility for U.S. veterans and their families and provides a comprehensive and holistic roster of services to help vets heal and succeed.  Services are provided through public and private collaborative partnerships with community organizations and government agencies and include housing, nutrition, life skills training, employment training and referrals, continuing education and degree programs, exercise training, medical services, mental health counseling and special veteran-centric activities and events. Veterans Village is managed by SHARE, a 501(c)3 organization founded in 1994 by Arnold Stalk and Karin Rogers to provide affordable housing for individuals in need.  SHARE oversees all operations of services for Veterans Village residents. 

CONR to fly air defense exercise in preparation for Super Bowl XLVII

1/29/2013 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region fighters, along with its interagency partners, will be busy well before Super Bowl Sunday preparing to protect the skies around the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.

Just like the teams in the Super Bowl, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and its interagency partners will practice before the big game.

Exercise Falcon Virgo 13-Super Bowl, a NORAD air defense exercise, will be held Tuesday, in the greater New Orleans area to allow interagency partners the chance to practice procedures for responding to airspace violations.

The Falcon Virgo exercise is a series of training flights in coordination with the FAA, FBI, Customs and Border Protection, Civil Air Patrol, the 601st Air and Space Operations Center, and the Continental U.S. NORAD Region's Western Air Defense Sector. These agencies are part of America's team for defense of the air space around the nation, including events like the Super Bowl.

New Orleans residents can expect flights to begin Jan. 29 around 7 a.m. CST and continue for approximately one hour.

If inclement weather occurs, the exercise will take place the following morning. If bad weather continues, officials will then make a decision to postpone or cancel the exercise.

"A key aspect of our daily air defense measures lies in our interagency coordination," said Lt. Gen. Sid Clarke, Continental U.S. NORAD Region commander. "This Falcon Virgo exercise is the perfect opportunity for the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and all our interagency partners to work together honing our air defense skills before Sunday's big game."

These exercises are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure the Continental U.S. NORAD Region's rapid response capability. The Continental U.S. NORAD Region has conducted exercise flights of this nature throughout the U.S. since the start of Operation Noble Eagle, the nation's ongoing response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

"When it comes to defending America's skies, whether it's Super Bowl Sunday or any other day, the men and women of the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and America's AOC are always on duty," Clarke said. "We are America's Airmen...on the watch."

Since Sept. 11, 2001, Continental U.S. NORAD Region fighters have responded to more than 5,000 possible air threats in the United States and have flown more than 62,500 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft for Operation Noble Eagle.

Flournoy takes command at Air Reserve Personnel Center

by Tech. Sgt. Rob Hazelett
ARPC Public Affairs

1/25/2013 - BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo.  -- Brig. Gen. John C. Flournoy, Jr., became commander of the Air Reserve Personnel Center here in a change of command ceremony Jan. 25.

Flournoy became the 32nd commander when he assumed command from Col. Patricia S. Blassie in a ceremony officiated by Lt. Gen. James F. Jackson, chief of the Air Force Reserve and commander of the Air Force Reserve Command.

"Colonel Blassie, you experienced a lot of change during your tenure as commander -- from a physical move to Buckley AFB to huge leaps in the modernization of ARPC," Jackson said. "Thank you for your leadership and dedication to ARPC, and the incredible service you and ARPC provide for our Citizen Airmen."

Flournoy is the former 349th Air Mobility Wing commander at Travis AFB, Calif. Blassie is moving to Robins AFB, Ga., to become the chief of the Professional Development Center.

"Thank you, General Jackson, for the opportunity to lead such an incredibly accomplished organization," Flournoy said. "Team ARPC, thank you for your seamless service to all of our Airmen. I am honored to be your commander and stand with you: wingmen, leaders, warriors."

"To the men and women of ARPC: No matter what we faced, we stood strong together to accomplish our unique mission," Blassie said. "You are a magnificent team of professionals. The people who serve the people who serve. I am so tremendously proud to have served as your commander."

ARPC is responsible for personnel support to nearly 1 million Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and retired members, ensuring they are ready to deliver strategic Total Force war-fighting capability for the Air Force. From initial entry to retirement, the center provides world-class support for generations of Airmen throughout their military careers. The center is a direct reporting unit under AFRC.

AF's most combat-decorated unit since Vietnam War honors latest heroes

by Capt. Belena S. Marquez
Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

1/26/2013 - JOINT BASE LEWIS MCCHORD, Wash. -- The most combat-decorated Air Force unit since the end of the Vietnam War named more heroes Jan. 23-24 during medal presentation ceremonies at Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore., and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

The 24th Special Operations Wing gained one Silver Star, six Bronze Star medals with Valor, and seven Bronze Star medals when Airmen from the 22nd Special Tactics Squadron were recognized with the nation's third and fourth highest combat decorations.

"Like many, the Airmen's willingness to serve at the tip of the spear, directly going into harm's way to attack the enemy time after time, represents the best of America," said Col. Robert Armfield, commander of the 24th SOW. "We are proud to see their sacrifice recognized. It gives us a chance to pause for just a moment to thank these special operators and, more importantly, to recognize their families, who bear the burden of this relentless mission."

During the ceremony, Staff Sgt. Adam Krueger was awarded the Silver Star, the third highest combat military decoration in the United States, for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations.

While on a foot patrol, his team was ambushed by an entrenched enemy less than 10 meters from the friendly position. The Army Special Forces team was immediately pinned down and then Senior Airman Krueger directed an F-15 strafing run within meters of his position to allow the friendly patrol to fight their way into a compound and establish a strong point.

"He took care of us on that day," said one of Krueger's Special Forces teammates, who attended the ceremony.

During the subsequent 12-hour firefight, two Soldiers were hit with enemy rounds. Kruger exposed himself to enemy fire in order to direct another air attack to allow the wounded members to be moved to safety. He then exposed himself again to mark the landing zone for the medical evacuation helicopter, enabling the life-saving patient evacuation. Additionally, Airman Krueger directed nine danger-close airstrikes.

Krueger's receipt of the medal marks the 32nd Silver Star earned by Air Force Special Operations Command Special Tactics Airmen since 9/11.

"It takes an uncommon bravery to put oneself in direct danger," said Lt. Gen. Eric Fiel, AFSOC commander. "If I were to ask any one of these men what they think about these decorations, I'm sure that they would all humbly respond that they were just doing their job."

Fiel told the audience what doing their job and more means for a deployed combat controller as he described actions that resulted in the sixth Silver Star awarded to the 22nd STS.

"Repeatedly exposing oneself to enemy fire after being pinned down by a coordinated, lethal ambush, coordinating for nine danger-close air strikes which allowed your teammates to seek cover and recover wounded personnel, and providing suppressive fire while simultaneously marking a landing zone to enable a life-saving patient evacuation, without regard to one's own safety, as Staff Sgt. Adam Krueger did, is more than just doing your job," he said.

Fiel also recognized the courageous actions of the Bronze Star and Bronze Star with Valor recipients.

The Bronze Star is the fourth highest combat honor in the United States and is awarded for acts of bravery and meritorious service against an armed enemy of the United States. When the Bronze Star is awarded for heroism, it is annotated by a bronze "V" device, which designates valor.

Many of the honorees were awarded their third or fourth Bronze Star. As a result, they received oak leaf clusters, which are worn on the medal or ribbon to indicate subsequent awards.

According to the medal citations, the recipients contributed to coordinated air attacks, ground combat support, casualty medical evacuation capabilities, and lives saved, all while engaged in combat operations.

"Though each of these men are being recognized for their courage, these decorations were earned in years [of preparation]--through long physical, mental and technical training pipelines. Across experiences from previous deployments and through the lessons passed on by the men who bore the standard before them," Fiel said.

In order to earn the right to wear the scarlet beret, the mark of combat controllers, candidates must complete 35 weeks of initial training. Additional training for the career field includes pipeline courses which result in mastery of parachuting skills, combat diving, survival techniques, special tactics skills and qualifications in air traffic control.

Lt. Col. Thad Allen, 22 STS commander, who has known the Silver Star recipient since 2008, said Krueger, like many other Combat Controllers across AFSOC, trained for years honing his skills to deal with the complexities of combat.

"Often, it's Senior Airmen, like Adam, making life or death decisions under fire, with potential strategic impact. That in and of itself is impressive," he said.
During the ceremony speech, Fiel also addressed the family members in attendance.

"Between a demanding pace of today's global special operations and your community's commitment to quiet professionalism we do not come together often enough to recognize the tremendous dedication of our special tactics," Fiel said. "But it is truly a pleasure for me to reflect on their accomplishments, particularly in the presence of family members and of course, the squadron teammates."

He also emphasized the significance of family support to the AFSOC mission and offered them a special message.

"I thank you personally for everything you do, every day for the nation," Fiel said. "It does not go unnoticed. Our military families make extraordinary, unique sacrifices to support our mission and we sincerely appreciate your contributions to our nation's security."

Before the group heard the citations, Fiel prepared to award the medals to the 13 recipients with one final statement.

"The stories...are inspiring and call each of us to rededicate ourselves, preparing for our own moment of opportunity, when a critical mission and the lives of our teammates will demand that we realize our full potential."

The honorees were:

Silver Star and Bronze Star:
Staff Sgt. Adam Krueger

Bronze Star with Valor Recipients:
Master Sgt. Douglas Neville
Tech. Sgt. Michael Orlando
Staff Sgt. Joshua Busch
Staff Sgt. Jeremiah Roberts
Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Salazar
Staff Sgt. Michael Wilhelm

Bronze Star Recipients:
Captain Joshua Barlow
Tech. Sgt. Michael A. Kurta
Tech. Sgt. Matthew McKenna
Senior Airman Benjamin De Boer
Senior Airman Christopher Kagan
Senior Airman John Moyle

Air Advisor Academy honors Yokota with first PACOM course

by Senior Airman Cody H. Ramirez
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

1/28/2013 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The Air Force Air Advisor Academy instructed cultural preparation and engagement to a team of professional airlifters at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Jan. 14 - 18, making it the first time the academy has sent a mobility training team to train in the Pacific Command since the school began in May 2012.

The five-day course began with an overview of the vast and diverse PACOM mission and focused into a more Yokota-specific mission as the class progressed. The 36th Airlift Squadron hosted the class and provided the instructors with upcoming Yokota engagement opportunities -- Indonesia and Thailand.

The U.S. is moving forward by building partnerships since President Barack Obama outlined the need for alliances in the 2012 National Security Strategy. Because of this need, the AAA is continuing to grow and spread support throughout the Air Force.

According to Maj. Alex Richburg, U.S. Air Force AAA Division chief of Language, Region and Culture Studies, the U.S. focus shifted to the Pacific recently and has added extra weight to conducting these exercises and building partnerships. He said squadrons like the 36th AS are trying to do more in order to meet the requirements the president put emphasis on, and the AAA instructors came to Yokota to help the airlifters be more effective at what they do.

"We can strive to be the best airlifters in the world, but if we don't know how to effectively communicate and build relationships with our partner nations in the Pacific, then our airlift skills are being squandered," said Capt. Olin Johnson, 36th AS C-130 Hercules pilot.

Johnson said he and his squadron train to fly. They practice day-to-day to be professional airlifters, but lack training in cross-cultural affairs, and that is exactly where the course came into play.

"The Air Advisor course taught us essential skills for building partnerships and knowledge of cultural norms and how to effectively communicate with individuals from other cultures," Johnson added. "We may have the best intentions, but if we don't know how to communicate those intentions in a culturally-appropriate context, then we set ourselves up for embarrassment at best and failure at worst."

Air adviser skills are invaluable for anyone working hand-in-hand with partner nations, and according to Johnson, the course gave students the tools needed to communicate effectively.

"The training gave our mission commanders and key players both the skills and confidence to build relationships with our partners," he added. "Each class was useful and tailored to the specific needs of Yokota's role in PACOM."

The course taught Yokota members what their legal limits are as air adviser along with tactical skills. Richburg said his instruction taught the airlifters to be more effective in exercises they are already doing. Lessons included mission planning, execution and after action analysis; behavior in host countries; using embassy resources; surviving if things go bad and understanding culture.

The U.S. has advisers in 135 countries, which requires many Airmen to fill those roles.
"We try to take someone with knowledge of being an adviser and teach them exactly how to be effective," Richburg said. "It is not teaching aviation, but it is teaching aviation-related professionals how to interact and work with a foreign culture in an advisory role."

The AAA and its mobility course takes general-purpose forces -- people who are mature, experienced Airmen, typically between staff sergeant and colonel, who are tasked to work with foreign governments or militaries, usually at the host nation's request -- and train them to function as air advisers when collaborating with host nations. The instructors educate Airmen who are already proficient at their jobs to apply their job skills in a foreign country, government, military and other cultures.

"These Airmen are not traditionally advisers, but have exercise opportunities to be in an adviser role with host nations, and we are giving them some skills or tools to make them more effective at working with allies and influencing the region," Richburg said. "When we partner with nations, we are less likely to get into armed conflict, and it allows our partner nations to help us help them secure the region.

"We see people going to Afghanistan, Morocco and Egypt and they are applying this knowledge every day," he added. "Now we can see the same knowledge applied to the Pacific region."

When the course returns to Yokota to train more airlifters in the art of cultural engagement depends on the demand, Richburg said. He added that the 36th AS has already requested another course this year, so there is a great chance for more professional airlifters to train as air advisers.

"We are still growing and our primary concern is our in-residence class, but we put together small teams of instructors to go on the road and teach when needed," added Richburg.

Ceremony honors six Oregon Airmen

by Tech. Sgt. John Hughel
142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/25/2013 - PORTLAND,Ore -- In a rare break with normal ceremonial protocol, the commander of Air Force Special Operations Command invited family members onto the stage for photos following the pinning of each of the five Bronze Star Medals and one Purple Heart Medal awarded to members of the Oregon Air National Guard's 125th Special Tactics Squadron.

"This ceremony is as much to honor the families of these Airmen as it is for the Airmen themselves," said Lt. Gen. Eric Fiel, who flew in from AFSOC headquarters in Hurlburt Field, Fla., to present the awards.

The six Airmen, in Air Force dress uniform, with their signature special operations scarlet beret, were honored during the afternoon ceremony in the Rosenbaum Hangar for their distinguished service in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The crowd was comprised of Airmen, Soldiers, Oregon National Guard leadership, representatives from the Port of Portland, and family members and friends.

Five of the Airmen were awarded Bronze Stars, two of which included the "V" for valor, and another received the Purple Heart. The group are all trained combat controllers in an elite squadron of Special Operations--a career field which has garnered the highest number of decorations in the entire Air Force, remarked Fiel.

"Between the demanding pace of today's global special operations and your community's commitment to the quiet professionals, we are all fortunate to be able to recognize these special tactic Airmen on occasions like this," said Fiel.

Recipients of the Bronze star medal were; Staff Sgt. David A. Albright, Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey A. Dolezal, Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Guffey, Master Sgt. Scott A. Geisser and Senior Airman Chadwick J. Boles. Tech. Sgt. Douglas J. Matthews was awarded Purple Heart, the nation's oldest medal, first established by President George Washington on August 7, 1782, while he served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. The award features the likeness of Washington on its front.

The Bronze Star Medal the fourth-highest combat decoration and the ninth highest U.S. military award in order of precedence. Established on Feb. 4, 1944, it may be awarded for acts of heroism, acts of merit, or meritorious service in a combat zone. When awarded for acts of heroism, the medal is awarded with the "V" device.

Fiel acknowledged the family members in the audience.

"Military families pay a heavy price in support of their loved ones in uniform so today this is your ceremony so please take the opportunity to take photographs and enjoy the time together," he said.

Presiding over the ceremony was Oregon Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Steven D. Gregg, commander of the Oregon Air National Guard.

"Today we have the opportunity to recognize the incredible work our Combat Controllers are doing when working with collation forces to provide stabilize throughout Afghanistan," Gregg said, as the honorees sat in a row across the stage.

The current mobilization began for the 125th STS in May 2011 as members began leaving in three separate cycles lasting six-month per deployment in November 2011. The last of the three deployment cycles will end in March 2013. A total of 29 Oregon Citizen-Airmen from the 125th STS have deployed to Afghanistan since May 2011.

Combat controllers are highly-trained experts who deploy undetected into combat and hostile environments, where they perform a variety of task to include; establishing assault zones and air fields, conduct air traffic control, fire support, command and control, counter terrorism as well as humanitarian missions.

During the latest cycle of deployments, the Airmen took part in over 800 combat missions, including 100 fire fights, which averaged more than one every three days. Furthermore, they neutralized over 190 enemy combatants with no civilian causalities, Gregg said.

"The scope and the scale of what the combat controllers of the 125th have achieved on the battle field in the past 15-months is nothing short of remarkable," he added. "The Airmen of the 125th are as accomplished as they are unique to the mission they support."

Master Sgt. Scott Geisser, who has been 125th STS since the unit formed in 2005, has played a critical role over the past eight years helping to build the squadron from the ground up. His actions during the deployment drew upon his tactical skills in command and control with over 100 fixed and rotary wing aircraft supporting operations targeted Taliban insurgents in numerous fire fights.

A native of Gig Harbor, Wash., Staff Sgt. Jacob Guffey attended the University of Hawaii at Hilo for two years before joining the military, and taking on the two years' worth of training necessary to become a combat controller with the 125th. In Afghanistan he embedded with a Marine Special Operations team and Afghan Commando Battalion on complex operations to clear deeply entrenched insurgent pockets in the Helmand province. He also controlled four medical evacuations, including one while he performing treatment to a teammate who had been struck by sniper fire.

Staff Sgt. David Albright's Air Force career began as a crew chief repairing and maintaining many of the aircraft that would later support his role in theatre as a combat controller. A native of Taylor, Mich., he entered the demanding 'pipeline training' of the Combat Control courses as he transitioned to the Oregon Air National Guard in June 2008, following six years in the active duty Air Force. During his tour in Afghanistan, his team was ambushed by 20 insurgents while on patrol searching for an automatic anti-aircraft weapon. Albright quickly engaged the enemy while coordinating two close support A-10 aircraft with strafing attacks to counter the insurgents.

Once an Air Force captain, Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Dolezal traded in his commission after graduating from the Air Force Academy in 2002 to become a combat controller with the 720th Operational Support Squadron in Hurlburt Field, Fla. As a member of the Oregon Air National Guard, he is responsible for coordinating and executing training for operators in the 125th STS. He conducted more than 170 fixed wing and rotary wing attacks during his last deployment and his team was instrumental in improving relations with the local population, helping garner support for the local Afghan security forces.

Senior Airman Chadwick Boles lettered football and volleyball in high school before joining the Air Force in early 2005. Like Dolezal, he was previously assigned on active duty with the 720th Operational Support Squadron before joining the 125th STS as a drill status member. It was during his most recent deployment that Boles earned his Bronze Star with Valor for engaging the enemy under heavy fire, exposing himself to incoming rounds, while he helped save a teammate who had been shot. He also assisted in the urgent care of that member until a safe medical evacuation helicopter could be secured.

Currently a student at the University of Colorado, Tech. Sgt. Douglas Matthews first served on active duty in the Air Force from 2003 to 2008 and later became a member of the Oregon Air National Guard. Before being wounded and receiving the Purple Heart Medal from his latest deployment to Afghanistan, Matthews himself has been active in the Wounded Warrior Foundation.

"What a privilege it is to honor their extraordinary service here today," said Gregg.

In keeping with the domestic mission of the National Guard, within days of returning to Oregon, several members responded to search and rescue missions in support of "Super-Storm" Sandy.

"It is truly amazing what Air Force units like the 125th provide to the wider Special Operations teams," Fiel said.

Special operations teams are made up of Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines, and have been responsible over the last 11 years, killing or capturing more terrorist then all the conventional forces combined, Fiel added.

The 125th Special Tactics Squadron is one of only two Special Tactic units in the Air National Guard. Established on May 27, 2005, the 125th STS has deployed forces in support of numerous overseas combat deployments including Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn in Iraq, and domestic emergency response missions such as the flooding in Vernonia, Ore., in 2007, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, and the recent response efforts following Super Storm Sandy.

113th reaches alert milestone

by Master Sgt. Jerry Harlan
AFNORTH Public Affairs

1/24/2013 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 113th Aerospace Control Alert Detachment of the District of Columbia Air National Guard at Joint Base Andrews passed a major air defense milestone January 9, responding to its 4,000th alert event since Operation Noble Eagle started in September, 2001.

An alert event is designated when the unit's F-16 fighters are alerted to the runway or beyond responding to a possible airborne threat.

"Day, night, rain or shine, our forces are on alert 24/7 protecting the NCR," stated Lt. Col. Chris Hardgrave, the 113th ACA Commander. "I am extremely proud of the accomplishments of the men and women of the 113th ACA detachment for hitting this alert milestone. It is a testament to the dedication, professionalism and daily sacrifice of our folks who have done the alert mission day in and day out for over 11 years."

The 113th ACA, protecting the National Capital Region (NCR), is the most active air defense unit in the nation; responding to more alert events than the entire nation's other ACA units combined. In 2012 alone the unit responded to 509 events and has been conducting steady state alert from Joint Base Andrews since the attacks on 9/11.

"The defense of the NCR is a team effort. We couldn't accomplish our assigned tasking without support from the Eastern Air Defense Sector, Joint Air Defense Operations Center, U.S. Coast Guard assets, 11th Wing, 89th Wing, Air Force District of Washington, and the FAA, just to name a few of our partners here at Joint Base Andrews and around the NCR," said Brig. Gen. Marc Sasseville, the 113th Wing Commander.

Operation Noble Eagle is an ongoing NORAD mission started in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to protect the continental United States from further airborne aggression from inside and outside of U.S. borders. Since then, Continental U.S. NORAD Region fighters have responded to more than 5,000 possible air threats in the United States and have flown more than 62,500 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft.

DOD to Begin Review of Family, Military Community Programs

By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2013 – A new task force will start work next month on a 120-day review of all family and military community programs across the Defense Department to determine their effectiveness and identify gaps and potential efficiencies, a senior defense official said. Charles E. Milam, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, will lead the Common Services Task Force at the request of Jessica Wright, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, he told defense reporters here last week. “The goals of the task force are to continue providing exceptional support to service members and their families as effectively and efficiently as possible,” Milam said, “and -- this is a guiding principle for us -- we expect to deliver the same or better level of programs and services.” Task force members will include senior leaders at the one-star or Senior Executive Service level from each secretariat and service, he said, along with representation from the DOD comptroller’s office, the Pentagon cost assessment and program evaluation office, and the public affairs and legislative affairs offices. The services independently have been looking at many of the same program issues, Milam added. Last year, for example, the Military Family Readiness Council initiated an effectiveness review for 170 family programs that exist across the services, he said. “What we’re looking at now [in that review] is building effectiveness measures on those programs [to see] which ones are effective, which ones are moving the needle, which ones have an impact,” the deputy assistant secretary explained.  In the meantime, he added, DOD officials decided they needed to look at the issue more holistically and across the department. One driver of the task force’s review will be demographic, Milam said. A majority of service members used to live on military installations, but now about 75 percent live in surrounding communities, he noted. “One of the concerns that we hear repeatedly on surveys is that our service members and their families aren’t aware of many of the programs being offered,” he said. Milam said the review will look at every program under the portfolio of the Pentagon’s military community and family policy office. These include programs that serve children, teens and families, as well as those that address recreation, business and exceptional family members. Recreation programs can address fitness and wellness, and business programs can include golf programs, bowling centers, outdoor recreation and community centers, he said. To determine which programs work, Milam said the department will examine “feedback from military families [about] which programs reduce stress, which ones improve quality of life of our service members, and which ones reach our service members.” The services all are doing similar things under the direction of DOD’s military community and family policy office, Milam said. “Whether there is redundancy in that or not, we’ll find out,” he added. “That’s what this is all about. There’s going to be a fact-gathering period where we’re going to look at all these programs to see what’s out there.” Commissaries, military exchanges and the DOD Education Activity -- which runs schools for children of military families -- will not be part of the review, he added. “This initiative is not related to any budget-cutting drill,” Milam clarified. “But when we go through this process, if we find efficiencies, which we possibly will, there are two pots of money we’re talking about.” Nonappropriated funds are those generated at the local level through service members in buying and using services, he said. “Any savings that we generate there will go back to the installations to improve quality-of-life programs,” Milam said. For savings found in activities that operate with appropriated funds, he added, decisions will need to be made about what to do with those funds. If gaps in family services are found during the review, Milam said, community partnerships may be an answer. “If we find gaps, there’s going to have to be some collaboration with the communities,” he said. “We’re doing this already in our child development programs.” For those programs, service members and their families can use nationally accredited child development programs outside the installation. They pay up to the maximum rate charged for on-base care at that local installation and are reimbursed the difference, he said. “So there’s a model out there already where we’re using community services,” Milam said. “That’s not to say we don’t need child development programs on the installation. We need both.” Parents want child care where they work or live, he noted. “But we also need to look at those other services,” he added. “Do we need to build more fitness centers or can we perhaps partner more? These are the things that we’re going to look at.”

Joining forces, increasing effectiveness

by 2nd Lt. Steven Lane
733rd Air Mobility Squadron

1/24/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- The Third Marine Expeditionary Force has been a staple on Okinawa, Japan since World War II. The MEF is forward-deployed here in order to safe-guard American and our allies' interests in Asia and they cover a spectrum of humanitarian aid, amphibious assault, and combat operations.

In order to be ready at all times for their nation's calling, the Marines undergo bi-annual troop movements. They completely "swap out" with fresh troops to ensure force capability. This swap is called a Unit Deployment Program.

This UDP is a large logistical effort involving the movements of approximately 3,500 personnel through the 733rd Air Mobility Squadron terminal every six months. Marines do not own outsized transport aircraft; instead, they rely heavily on Air Mobility Command and contracted airlift for their large troop deployments. This is a key strategic decision, which allows a seamless transition for the troops arriving in theater to immediately begin supporting operations.

The UDP brings in Marine forces like the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 2nd Battalion, and the 1st Marines based at Camp Pendleton, Calif. These units come over and provide a multitude of platforms; anything from a United States humanitarian role model to bilateral exercises as the designated Battalion Landing Team MEU force. The deployment program enables extensive training and increased readiness for both Airmen and Marines alike.

That is when the Airmen of the 733rd AMS at Kadena Air Base come into the picture. The 733rd AMS receives and delivers these Marines.

"We always know that UDP time means a huge influx of our passenger numbers and we are here to facilitate their movements," said Staff Sgt. Brianna McNab, a passenger service supervisor for the 733rd AMS. "The 733rd is the single point of contact between the III MEF and the carrier aircraft; everything we do is truly a team effort."

Along with the partnership of III MEF Marines, this process has been streamlined exponentially. The original process left the Marines to fend for themselves on the flightline with minimal experience and the daunting task; to download and upload 350 passengers in less than three hours. The task may seem overwhelming to ground forces, but the 733rd AMS does this kind of movement regularly. The process has since been simplified with a new logistical coordination between the two teams.

"The Marines can do what they do best and we will do what we do best," said Master Sgt. Jessica Coombs, 733rd AMS Passenger Services superintendent.

According to Coombs, the terminal will be responsible for all aerial port debarkation procedures that service members would encounter during a typical military movement.

Transportation to and from aircraft, organization of baggage download, and booking of passengers are all operations handled by the 733rd AMS daily. The Marines can then focus on the transportation from the terminal to home-stations.

"This operation is the first thing that incoming Marines see of Okinawa, and we want to demonstrate a solid partnership as the first boot touches the ground," said Lt. Col Jupe Etheridge, 733rd AMS commander. "The organization and rapid movement benefits the morale and wellness of America's troops in the East. Building mobility partnerships are a must to the success of our operations and sister services are forced to rely upon one another. This is the true meaning of joint operations."

NORAD Jets Prepare to Protect Super Bowl Skies

From a Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region News Release

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Jan. 28, 2013 – Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region fighters, along with interagency partners, will be busy well before Super Bowl Sunday preparing to protect the skies around the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.

Just like the teams in the Super Bowl, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and its partners will practice before the big game.

Exercise Falcon Virgo 13-Super Bowl, a NORAD air defense exercise, will take place tomorrow in the greater New Orleans area to allow interagency partners the chance to practice procedures for responding to airspace violations.

The Falcon Virgo exercise is a series of training flights in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the FBI, Customs and Border Protection, Civil Air Patrol, the 601st Air and Space Operations Center, and the Continental U.S. NORAD Region’s Western Air Defense Sector. These agencies are part of America’s team for defense of the air space around the nation, including major events such as the Super Bowl.

New Orleans residents can expect flights to begin around 7 a.m. CST tomorrow and continue for about an hour, officials said. If inclement weather occurs, the exercise will take place the following morning, and if bad weather continues, officials will then make a decision to postpone or cancel the exercise.

“A key aspect of our daily air defense measures lies in our interagency coordination,” said Air Force Lt. Gen. Sid Clarke, Continental U.S. NORAD Region commander. “This Falcon Virgo exercise is the perfect opportunity for the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and all our interagency partners to work together honing our air defense skills before Sunday’s big game.”

These exercises are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure the Continental U.S. NORAD Region’s rapid response capability, officials said, noting that the Continental U.S. NORAD Region has conducted exercise flights of this nature throughout the United States since the start of Operation Noble Eagle, the nation’s ongoing response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

“When it comes to defending America’s skies, whether it’s Super Bowl Sunday or any other day, the men and women of the Continental U.S. NORAD Region and America’s AOC are always on duty,” Clarke said. “We are America’s airmen on the watch.”

Since 9/11, Continental U.S. NORAD Region fighters have responded to more than 5,000 possible air threats in the United States and have flown more than 62,500 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft for Operation Noble Eagle.

Twin legacy: 2nd-generation twins gain independence while attending Academy

by Amber Baillie
Academy Spirit staff writer

1/27/2013 - U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (AFNS) -- Cadet 3rd Class Kerri Schmidt will never forget the moment she reunited with her twin sister after the two were separated for two weeks during Basic Cadet Training.

During intense training and drills here, for the first time in their lives, the girls couldn't see or communicate with each other. As soon as Kerri spotted her sister, Kiersten, at the Cadet Chapel one day, her spirit brightened and tears filled her eyes as she walked toward her best friend since birth.

"That was the longest time we had been apart emotionally," Kerri said. "We have that kind of bond where you live together, you know each other's habits, you know exactly how to make each other angry and exactly how to make each other happy."

Born only two minutes apart, the blonde haired, blue-eyed 20-year olds from Verona, Ky., received appointments to the Academy last year and were assigned to the same cadet squadrons as their father, Kevin Schmidt, and his twin brother, Kerry Schmidt, who attended the Academy more than 30 years ago.

"I was put in Cadet Squadron 28, the squadron my dad was a part of and Kerri was put in Cadet Squadron 3, the squadron his twin brother, who she was named after, was a part of," Kiersten said.

Together as often as they're allowed, the Schmidt sisters are both involved in the Academy's show choir and a bible study. Although it gives them confidence knowing they have each other to talk to, they said the forced time apart has enabled them to grow as individuals.

"A big misconception with twins is that we're the same person," Kiersten said. "We come from the same place but we can be separated. We have differences such as different interests, majors and friends."

One can easily make a distinction just from their height--Kiersten surpasses Kerri by five inches.

"People still get confused," Kiersten said. "Last year my Spanish partner saw Kerri at the gym and thinking it was me, started to talk to her."

Kerri, a legal studies major, and Kiersten, a materials chemistry major, said they've also learned to give each other space when it comes to boyfriends.

"At first with the whole dating thing, I was like, 'Don't steal my sister,' because I would get jealous," Kerri said. "Her boyfriend is actually in my squadron and is really nice. I approve of him, for now."

Being at the Academy has also sparked healthy competition between the girls.

"Knowing that we're both here, even with different majors, I'll think, 'She's going to get this grade on this test and so I've got to do better than that,'" Kerri said. "We're proud of each other but can definitely get competitive."

By growing up as a twin, Kiersten said it has made her a better roommate.

"It's easier for me to be a roommate because I know how to share my life, whereas for some people, they may have siblings but don't know how to live together," Kiersten said.

The girls are both interested in flying planes in the future. They said no matter where their careers or the Air Force takes them, they will always remain close and understand each other like no one else ever will.

"All I have to do is shoot her a look and she knows exactly what I'm thinking," Kiersten said. "It's a unique relationship because you're the same age and going through the same life stage. It's pretty special."

USS Cole Returns Home

By Ensign Kerry Gablin, USS Cole Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Following a nine-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea, the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) returned to Naval Station Norfolk today marking the successful conclusion of her maiden Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) deployment.

The ship departed last April for the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. Cole is the fourth BMD-capable ship to deploy to the European theater as part of the Phased Adaptive Approach, the purpose of which is to protect European allies, partners, U.S. forces in the region, and the U.S. homeland against current and emerging ballistic threats.

While deployed, Cole achieved new records of success in equipment availability and mission readiness, being 100 percent operationally capable. Both Command Master Chief Larry Dean and Commanding Officer Cmdr. Peter K. Nilsen praised the crew's motivation and morale during the extended deployment.

"We're very blessed to have an outstanding crew who love what they do," said Nilsen. "They understand the commitment they've made and have done a great job over these nine months. I couldn't be more proud of what they've done."

"Our success is indicative of the hard work, training, ownership, and pride of our crew," added Dean. "Not only have they performed magnificently as a unit, but the individual accomplishments are equally outstanding with 85 Sailors earning their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist pins, over 88 Sailors advancing in rate, and eight new chief petty officers. There's a lot of history and pride on this ship, which isn't forgotten. Cole is not a museum; it's an active warship, and our crew honors its legacy by doing their jobs the best they can."

Cole is named in honor of Marine Sergeant Darrell S. Cole, who was awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II.

Ground-Based Interceptor Completes Successful Flight Test

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) successfully completed a flight test of a three-stage ground-based interceptor (GBI), launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., at 2 p.m. (PST) today.
 
Data from this flight test will be used to evaluate the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle system performance in a flight environment.  If a target missile were present, the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle would collide directly with the threat warhead to perform a hit-to-kill intercept.  Engineering data from this test will be used to improve confidence for future intercept missions.
 
A target missile launch was not planned for this flight test.  After performing fly out maneuvers, the three-stage booster deployed the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle to a designated point in space.  After separating from the booster, the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle executed a variety of pre-planned maneuvers to collect performance data in space.
 
Initial indications are that all components performed as designed.  Program officials will assess and evaluate system performance based upon telemetry and other data obtained during the test.

Today’s event, designated Ground-Based Midcourse Defense Control Test Vehicle (GM CTV)-01, is part of an extensive test series initiated after the Flight Test Ground-Based Interceptor (FTG)-06a failure in December 2010.  The Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle flown during GM CTV-01 was modified based on findings from the FTG-06a Failure Review Board.  This test is the critical first step in returning GMD to successful intercept testing.

USS Milius Begins Installation of New Afloat Network

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Karolina A. Martinez, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Capt. D.J. LeGoff, the Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) program manager at Program Executive Office, Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (PEO C4I) command, toured USS Milius (DDG 69) Jan. 23 to discuss and review the installation plans for the new CANES shipboard network program.

CANES is a new afloat network where five legacy networks are merged together to create one centralized program that will be used fleet-wide creating consistency within the ships. This strategy creates a stronger performance and network infrastructure, greater network security, and immensely decreases the total ownership cost. The Arleigh-Burke Class Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Milius will become the first ship in the fleet to possess the CANES system.

"We are trying to make it easier for the ITs (Information Systems Technicians) on board to do their job," said LeGoff. "The legacy systems were never built together, and they grew at different rates which made it very hard for our ITs to manage that infrastructure. With CANES, we wanted to build one system that met all of the system requirements."

The Milius will lead the way for other expected ship installations such as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), the next ship slated for install. The tour consisted of discussions about the projected uses of the CANES program for Wi-Fi in spaces such as shipboard classrooms, internet cafes and the bridge.

"We are providing Wi-Fi inside the skin of the ship to be able to accommodate more users," said LeGoff.

LeGoff also said the user should see better performance and expanded capacity. Network administrators will see a lot more functionality and possess a better ability to manage the infrastructure.

"CANES is going to greatly improve the quality of life for the crew," said Cmdr. Stephen Shedd, commanding officer, USS Milius. "I am really looking forward to that aspect of the installation. The new capabilities that the technology is going to provide us is a vast improvement over what we previously had."

The CANES system will also help make computer based training such as general military training, advancement, and rating training more user friendly and easily accessible.

As part of the CANES program, selected information technology Sailors from the Milius will undergo specialized training from a network administrative perspective.

"There is a sense of responsibility I have for the rest of the fleet," said Shedd. "We need to make sure that we identify any issues that pop up and create feedback learned to benefit future installations of CANES on other ships."

Center for Service Support Announces Domain Civilian of the Year

By CSS Public Affairs

NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- The learning standards officer (LSO) assigned to the Center for Service Support (CSS) on board Naval Station Newport, R.I., was selected as the domain's Civilian of the Year Jan 23.

Michael Buechel, a retired Navy master chief petty officer who has worked for CSS since 2009, was selected from a field of other candidates throughout the CSS domain.

CSS Commanding Officer Capt. Dana Weiner said selecting the winner from the pool of nominees was challenging because "the quality of all nominees was exceptional, as were their contributions to the CSS mission. Mr. Buechel displayed a wide range of expertise and critical skills in several areas. His ability to hold three key CSS positions led to his overall selection."

Buechel assumed the position of LSO April 10, after temporarily filling this position for three months due to a staff departure. During this time, he still maintained the duties and responsibilities as the domain and technology director and filled the role as Corporate Enterprise Training Activity Resource Systems (CETARs) analyst for three months due to another staff vacancy.

"I am humbled to say the least," said Buechel, a Mystic, Conn. resident. "This selection is more a reflection of the excellent team I have to work with here at CSS and our learning sites throughout the domain as opposed to my individual efforts."

In his position as CSS LSO, Buechel supervises a combined staff of 23 civilian and military personnel in two departments. These departments directly assist the Navy with cost savings by ensuring student wait times for training are minimal and the resources available for the students provide the highest quality training.

"We at CSS are on a continual process improvement journey where innovation and communication are keys to improving our effectiveness and efficiency in the development and delivery of quality training to our warfighters," Buechel said.

CSS and its seven learning sites provide Sailors with the knowledge and skills required to support the fleet's warfighting mission. Each year, the nearly 250 staff and faculty members of CSS deliver training to more than 10,000 personnel serving in the Navy's administration, logistics and media communities.

Spirit of Hope Award Nominations Deadline Announced

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Personnel is seeking nominations for the 2012 Spirit of Hope award, which must be submitted by March 15.

The award recognizes an individual or organization that epitomizes the values of Bob Hope: duty, honor, courage, loyalty, commitment, integrity, and selfless dedication.

Since 2005, the Navy has nominated one outstanding individual or support organization to receive the distinguished Spirit of Hope Award. Nomination criteria and instructions were announced in NAVADMIN 011/13.

"We are seeking nominations of individuals or organizations that reflect Mr. Hope's service to the spiritual, social, welfare, education, and entertainment needs of our Sailors," said Millie King, Chief of Naval Personnel, Personal Readiness and Community Support Branch program analyst, who is coordinating the Navy's nomination process. "Nominations should describe extraordinary achievements and contributions above and beyond normal duties during 2012."

Originally commissioned by the USO, the Spirit of Hope Award was inspired by Hope's dedication to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces for five decades. Since 1997, this award has been formally presented by the Wiegand Foundation, Inc., during an annual ceremony held in Washington, D.C.

The Spirit of Hope Award is open to active duty, Reserve, veteran and civilian Navy employees or an organization. Members of the civilian community or non-governmental organizations voluntarily supporting Sailors and embodying the Navy's core values are also eligible.

The Navy's Calendar Year 2011 Spirit of Hope Award winner was Mrs. Carolyn Blashek. Mrs. Blashek founded Operation Gratitude out of her home in 2003, just after the start of the Iraq War. The organization has sent more than 875,000 care packages to deployed Servicemembers, their families, and wounded warriors.

Navy Calls for Humanitarian Award Nominations

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The deadline to submit nominations for the calendar year 2012 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award is March 15.

The award recognizes a private sector individual or organization that has demonstrated exceptional patriotism and humanitarian concerns for members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their families, according to NAVADMIN 013/13 released Jan. 23.

"This award is an opportunity to honor those individuals who have supported our Servicemembers and their families during the past decade of war. It is amazing the impact our nominees have on Sailors and I wish we could select more than one nominee to the all service selection process", said Millie King, Chief of Naval Personnel, Personal Readiness and Community Support Branch program analyst, who is coordinating the Navy's nomination process.

Submissions must be sent via command channels to chief of naval personnel.

The nominee selected by the Navy will further compete with nominees from the other services for the award. The winner will receive the award and be honored during a ceremony in the fall, at the Pentagon.

The Navy's selected Calendar Year 2011 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Award nominee was Mrs. Heidi Martin. Mrs. Martin, devoted to community service endeavors, is the founder and director of Martin Ministries, a small seven day a week military food/bread ministry with 186 volunteers providing services to 28 home site locations, six church ministries all over San Diego area, four referral sites, and eight sub-ministries throughout the United States.

In 1996, the award was established by the military departments in honor of Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, who contributed extensively to the support and welfare of members of the armed forces.

For complete nomination information and award questions, see NAVADMIN 013/13.

TR Trains to Rejoin Fleet with Readiness Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Brian G. Reynolds, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) participated in a third readiness exercise Jan. 22 to train Sailors to safely fight the ship as TR prepares to rejoin the operational fleet.

During the exercise, the entire crew stayed on the ship overnight in order to simulate a day at sea.

While aboard, the crew trained on several routine underway evolutions, including line handling, sea and anchor detail, a man overboard drill and a general quarters drill, to ensure the crew is qualified and the carrier is ready to proceed safely to sea.

"Right now, while we are coming out of refueling and complex overhaul [RCOH], is a great opportunity for us to form the habit patterns that will determine how we actually respond during a real situation," said Capt. Mark Colombo, TR's executive officer. "If we do these things well enough and often enough, they become muscle memory. These exercises will give us the opportunity to form those basic habits."

TR is simulating these underway conditions while the ship is completing its final year of midlife RCOH at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division Huntington Ingalls Industries.

"Some of the things that we do can be dangerous tasks," said Ens. William Boll, TR's boatswain. "The only way that we can make this a less dangerous task is through training. That way everyone knows where they are supposed to be and what they are supposed to do."

During the line handling evolution, the ship's Deck department simulated mooring to a pier - a fairly routine evolution while underway. However, the exercise did not go without risk involved.

"This line that we are using can be very dangerous," said Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Quinton Thorpe, a Sailor with TR's 1st Division. "The line can snap back at the speed of light. So we have to be very careful."

"This isn't your standard three-inch line," said Boll. "This gives our guys the experience of maneuvering these big mooring lines around."

The final exercise of the evening was a general quarters drill (GQ). During the drill, TR Sailors simulated fighting fires during a combat situation.

"Every drill is a plus for us," said Chief Warrant Officer Noel Genao, TR's fire marshal. "Every evolution that we do, we learn something. We were doing a lot of things that we didn't see during the last GQ. But, overall, I think that it went well."

This is the third exercise of this kind for TR as the crew prepares to rejoin the operational fleet. The readiness exercises are scheduled to be held bimonthly for the foreseeable future.

USS William P. Lawrence Participates in USWEX

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Carla Ocampo, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS WILLIAM P. LAWRENCE, At Sea (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110) along with the Nimitz Strike Group Surface Action Group (SAG) conducted an under sea warfare exercise (USWEX) Jan. 20-23.

The goal of USWEX was to test the undersea warfare capabilities of the SAG in real-world scenarios. Lawrence Sailors received the opportunity to practice identifying and tracking a sub, using both active and passive detection techniques.

"This was a good learning experience, especially for our junior Sailors," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Nickolas Neilan. "The fact that we got to work with actual submarines and not just simulated contacts gave Sailors forceful back up of what we teach them and what they learn in our schools."

Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Reginald Carter said that the exercise also helped the bridge watch team, lookouts and sonar watch teams learn about the different aspects of a submarine.

"This exercise has helped us hone our skills not only on board the ship but with the strike group," said Carter. "It was very successful."

Lawrence is currently underway on its maiden deployment as part of the Nimitz SAG, which consists of the guided missile destroyers Lawrence, USS Stockdale (106), USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Shoup (DDG 86) and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23.

The SAG is deploying to the Western Pacific to focus on maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts, which help establish conditions for regional stability.

U.S. and Timor-Leste Naval Forces Build Maritime Partnerships

From Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific Public Affairs

PORT HERA NAVY BASE, Timor-Leste (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy and Timorese Navy commenced the first Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Timor-Leste exercise Jan. 25, with an opening ceremony held at Port Hera Navy Base.

U.S. Ambassador Judith Fergin and Col. Falur Rate Laek, Chief of Staff of the Timor-Leste Defense Force (F-FDTL), officiated the ceremony.

Fergin reaffirmed U.S. support for Timor-Leste's efforts to consolidate peace and security gains, noting the exercise enhanced mutual cooperation.

"The contributions that the participants in Exercise CARAT will make this week will strengthen the foundations of cooperation between our two countries for years to come," said Fergin.

In his opening remarks, Laek noted that the upcoming exercises build a stronger relationship between Timor-Leste and U.S. naval forces.

"The partnership between the Timor-Leste and U.S. Navy and Marines is not a new one. These Naval and Marine exercises between Timor-Leste and United States help to will ensure peace, build experience, and strengthen the permanent partnership between Timor-Leste and the United States," said Laek.

Over the next four days, Marines from U.S. Fleet Antiterrorism and Security Team (FAST), Pacific, will conduct hands on skill transfers and combat fundamentals with their F-FDTL counterparts.

In addition to FAST, Coast Guardsmen from the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Training Branch homeported in Yorktown, Va., and Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5, homported in Port Hueneme, Calif., will conduct subject matter expert exchanges with the F-FDTL Navy on several F-FDTL ships. Coast Guardsmen will hold training on engineering, navigation, seamanship and damage control, while the Seabees will conduct medical, mechanical and electrical classroom courses.

Representing U.S. forces, Lt. Cmdr. Jennie Stone, CARAT Liaison Officer, Logistics Group Western Pacific, noted these exchanges allowed maritime professionals to share best practices and build partnerships.

"Our partners in the F-FDTL are skilled professionals, and this exercise helps increase interoperability between our forces, while at the same time building personal and professional relationships. This ongoing development becomes critical should future events call for our forces to work side-by-side," said Stone.

CARAT is a series of annual, bilateral maritime exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste.

Nimitz Earns 7th Consecutive Gold Anchor Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan J. Mayes, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) received confirmation Jan. 13, it was among the list of commands to receive the Pacific Fleet Command's Retention Excellence Award, known to many Sailors as the 'Gold Anchor Award'.

The award recognizes commands which have met or exceeded the benchmarks of 100 percent on-time Perform to Serve submissions, 100 percent professional apprentice career track Sailors, a score of 85 or higher on the annual career information program review and an attrition rate not exceeding five percent.

The criterion is set by Navy Personnel Command, and it ensures every command handles the careers of its Sailors properly.

"The big thing this year was making sure everyone was submitted on-time for PTS approval," said Navy Counselor 1st Class Domenique Sanchez. "They were also looking at attrition rate. The criteria can change year to year."

As each command goes through an annual inspection, every Sailor's career file is looked at to make sure nothing is overlooked.

"The worst thing we could do is allow a Sailor to fall through the cracks," said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Alberto Perez Badillo, USS Nimitz command career counselor.

Receiving this reward indicates careers of Nimitz Sailors are not falling by the wayside. These accomplishments are directly related to the efforts of the command's career counselors, departmental career counselors and divisional career counselors.

"The departmental counselors and the division counselors make it a lot easier," said Sanchez. "The program runs smoothly because of them, and this award proves it."

This isn't the first time Nimitz has been recognized for its outstanding career-counseling program.

"This is our seventh consecutive year to receive the award," said Perez Badillo. "This means we are doing our job. The biggest satisfaction is knowing our Sailors are being taken care of."

As visual recognition for the award, Nimitz will receive a special pennant as well as the privilege to paint her two, 30 ton anchors gold. This signals to other ships that Nimitz Sailors are receiving great career management from a team of dedicated professionals.

"Without everyone on this team, those anchors would be grey," said Perez Badillo.

Sanchez explained that moving forward Nimitz' Career Counseling department will continue to ensure every Sailor's career is handled with care. He said the gold anchors serve as well deserved bragging rights for the command.

Army Training Commander Promises Fair Standards for Combat Jobs

By David Vergun
Army News Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2013 – Fairness will be important as officials develop their plan for opening more direct-combat jobs to women, the commander of the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command said here yesterday.

Gen. Robert W. Cone spoke with reporters after Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced the Defense Department has rescinded an exclusion dating to 1994 that barred women from being assigned to combat positions below brigade level.
“Soldiers -- both men and women -- want fair and meaningful standards” to be developed for accepting women into previously restricted specialties, Cone said. “I think that fairness is very important in a values-based organization like our Army.”

The memo Panetta and Dempsey signed rescinding the policy does not spell out which military occupational specialties will be open to women. Rather, it directs the services to provide their implementation strategies to the Defense Department by May. Implementation will begin this year and be completed by the beginning of 2016, Panetta said at a news conference yesterday.

“This year we will begin to assign women to previously closed occupations using clear standards of performance in all occupational specialties,” Dempsey said at the news conference.

“The burden of proof used to be, ‘Why should a woman serve in a particular specialty?’” the chairman added. “Now, it’s, ‘Why shouldn’t a woman serve in a particular specialty?’”

As of September, 418 of the Army’s 438 MOSs were open to women of all ranks, according to an Oct. 31 Army report titled: “Women in the Army.”

TRADOC already has been studying armies in other countries, such as Canada and Israel, where women successfully have been integrated into combat specialties. Army officials will consider knowledge, skills and attributes of soldiers and get the best match in specialties now restricted, Cone said, such as infantry, armor, field artillery and engineers.

Physical requirements will be one of the important attributes, he added.

“Soldiers don’t want to see [that] degraded,” the general said.

Objective assessments and validation studies, many of which already are complete, will look at each requirement by specialty, Cone told reporters. Tasks include such things as how much infantry soldiers must be able to lift, how much they have to carry, and for what distance, Cone said. Once the validations are done, scientists will then develop specialty-specific physical fitness tests that will, in turn, be validated with field studies, he explained.

Besides physical ability, Cone said, Army officials will look at “traditional impediments” -- the attitudes regarding the acceptance of women into previously male-only jobs.

“A lot of this is about leadership and the organizational climate,” he added.

The Army will take “proactive measures to mitigate resistance to women going into these specialties,” the general said.

“We want the right environment for women,” he said.

AF to open remaining combat positions to women

1/24/2013 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Martin Dempsey announced today the rescission the 1994 Direct Ground Combat Definition and Assignment Rule for women and that the Department of Defense plans to remove gender-based barriers to service.

"Women have shown great courage and sacrifice on and off the battlefield, contributed in unprecedented ways to the military's mission and proven their ability to serve in an expanding number of roles," Panetta said. "The Department's goal in rescinding the rule is to ensure that the mission is met with the best-qualified and most capable people, regardless of gender."

While 99 percent of Air Force positions are currently open to women, Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III said the service will now pursue opening the final 1 percent.

"2013 marks the twentieth anniversary of the Department of Defense allowing women to serve as combat pilots," Welsh said. "By rescinding the 1994 Direct Ground Combat Definition and Assignment Rule, we can pursue integrating women into the seven remaining Air Force career fields still closed, all associated with special operations. We're focused on ensuring America's Air Force remains capable and ready with the best-qualified people serving where we need them."

The Air Force will partner with U.S. Special Operations Command and the other services to review opening these positions in a deliberate, measured, and responsible way, officials said. Those positions are:

Officer / Enlisted Air Force Specialty Codes closed to women:
- 13DXA (Combat Control Officer - special operations forces / direct ground combat)
- 13DXB (Combat Rescue/Special Tactics Officer - special operations forces / direct ground combat)
- 15WXC (Special Operations Weather Officer - special operations forces / direct ground combat)
- 1C2XX (Enlisted Combat Controller - special operations forces /direct ground combat)
- 1C4XX (Enlisted Tactical Air Command and Control - some special operations forces /direct ground combat)
- 1T2XX (Enlisted Pararescue - special operations forces /direct ground combat)
- 1W0X2 (Enlisted Special Operations Weather - special operations forces /direct ground combat)

These career fields comprise approximately 3,235 positions.

Today, women make up approximately 15 percent, or nearly 202,400, of the U.S. military's 1.4 million active personnel. Over the course of the past decade, more than 280,000 women have deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Today's announcement follows an extensive review by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who unanimously concluded that now is the time to move forward with the full intent to integrate women into occupational fields to the maximum extent possible.

It builds on a February 2012 decision to open more than 14,000 additional positions to women by rescinding the co-location restriction and allowing women to be assigned to select positions in ground combat units at the battalion level.

"The Joint Chiefs share common cause on the need to start doing this now and to doing this right. We are committed to a purposeful and principled approach," said Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey.

The DoD is determined to successfully integrate women into the remaining restricted occupational fields within our military, while adhering to the following guiding principles developed by the Joint Chiefs of Staff:

- Ensuring the success of our nation's warfighting forces by preserving unit readiness, cohesion, and morale.

- Ensuring all service men and women are given the opportunity to succeed and are set up for success with viable career paths.

- Retaining the trust and confidence of the American people to defend this nation by promoting policies that maintain the best quality and most qualified people.

- Validating occupational performance standards, both physical and mental, for all military occupational specialties (MOS), specifically those that remain closed to women. Eligibility for training and development within designated occupational fields should consist of qualitative and quantifiable standards reflecting the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for each occupation. For occupational specialties open to women, the occupational performance standards must be gender-neutral as required by Public Law 103-160, Section 542 (1993).

- Ensuring that a sufficient cadre of midgrade/senior women enlisted and officers are assigned to commands at the point of introduction to ensure success in the long run. This may require an adjustment to recruiting efforts, assignment processes, and personnel policies. Assimilation of women into heretofore "closed units" will be informed by continual in-stride assessments and pilot efforts.

Using these guiding principles, positions will be opened to women following service reviews and the congressional notification procedures established by law. Panetta directed the military departments to submit detailed plans by May 15, 2013, for the implementation of this change, and to move ahead expeditiously to integrate women into previously closed positions. The secretary's direction is for this process to be complete by Jan. 1, 2016.

The Joint Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Women in Service Review Memorandum can be viewed at: http://www.defense.gov/news/WISRJointMemo.pdf

The Chairman's Women in Service Review Memorandum can be viewed at: http://www.defense.gov/news/WISRImplementationPlanMemo.pdf

Schriever issues active-shooter guidance

by Staff Sgt. Julius Delos Reyes
50th Space Wing Public Affairs

1/24/2013 - SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo -- Every emergency scenario requires having a plan, including an active-shooter scenario. The 50th Space Wing Antiterrorism office, 50th Security Forces Squadron and the 50th Civil Engineer Squadron Emergency Management Flight recently issued guidance on how to survive an active-shooter incident.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, an active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and/or populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims. Active shooter situations are typically unpredictable and can evolve quickly.

"The active shooter phenomenon represents a significant change in criminal methodology, and has in turn required a significant change in tactics for both responders and potential victims," said Lt. Col. Jasin Cooley, 50 SFS commander. "In decades past, bystanders were only a tool for acquiring another target, now they are the target. With this in mind, escape and compartmentalization need to be the primary motivation of bystanders. Everyone should have a plan for escape, and assist others if forced to escape."

How individuals respond to an active shooter will be dictated by the specific circumstances of the encounter, bearing in mind there could be more than one shooter involved in the same situation.

"As active-shooter scenarios become more and more prevalent, people need to realize that it can happen to them at any time," said Lou Fischer, 50th Space Wing antiterrorism officer. "Now is the time to think about it, not when the crisis is happening. "

Increased attention should be placed on personnel who have been involuntarily discharged or fired from their job, awaiting disciplinary action, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and making unsolicited comments about violence, firearms or death. People should also observe individuals who have been served with a restraining order, are known to be mentally or emotionally unstable, made comments about being disenchanted with the military and displayed anti-war or anti-military sentiments.

"Personnel need to maintain a reasonable level of awareness at all times and to have a plan in place if presented with this situation," Fischer said. "It's all about going home to your family at the end of the day."

The following are tips on how to survive an active-shooter scenario:

If caught outside in the open:
- Seek cover and concealment. Use whatever is available, such as walls, trees or buildings, to obscure yourself from the shooter. Hide behind something capable of stopping a bullet such as masonry or brick wall.
- Run if safe. Do not run in a straight line.
- Play dead if unable to run or hide, then wait for help.
- Summon help when safe.
- Fight as a last option; use any object to disable the shooter.
- Upon arrival of security forces, leave hands in plain view. Do not make sudden movements. Wait for all clear signal from recognized authority.

If shooter is outside the building:
- Lock doors and windows; close curtains and shades.
- Lay down on floor or crouch below the window line out of the line of fire.
- If safe, move to a central secure area.
- Stay in place until all clear signal issued by recognized authority.
- Follow all directions of police and security personnel.

If shooter is inside the building:
- If safe to exit, flee the area; if not safe, stay in place (do not roam hallways).
- Do not pull the fire alarm.
- Lock and barricade door; stay low; remain silent; use furniture for cover; if possible hide behind something capable of stopping a bullet.
- Stay in place until all clear signal issued by recognized authority.
- Follow all directions of police and security personnel.

If shooter enters room or office:
- Immediately drop to the floor; seek cover and concealment; play dead.
- As a last resort, fight the shooter. Rush with available people, throw things or use improvised weapons to take shooter to the ground.
- Stay in place until all clear signal issued by recognized authority.
- Follow all directions of police and security personnel.

After the scenario
- Follow the direction of emergency responders.
- Do not speak to the media. Information will be released to the community and media as quickly as possible by official sources. Refer inquiries to the 50 SW Public Affairs office at 567-5040. Straight Talk Line, 567-8255, is also available for accurate information about the status of any disturbance or crisis situation and the actions taken or being taken
- The entire area will be treated as a crime scene.
- Once evacuated, people will not be permitted to retrieve items or access the crime scene.
- After evacuation, people will be taken to a holding area for medical care, interviewing, counseling, etc.

For all situations, dial 911 from a landline or 567-3911 from a personal phone and give information, such as location, incident details such as number of shooters, physical description, type of weapons and number of potential victims.

Safety Professionals of the Year

by Senior Master Sgt. Ray Lloyd
107th Airlift Wing

1/25/2013 - Niagara Falls Reserve Station -- Members of the Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) were recognized as the 107 AW Safety Professional(s) of the year for 2012 at the January meeting of the Commander's Quarterly Safety Sub Group. This award is given annually to the unit member or members who demonstrated a commitment to the safety ethos, risk management, and mishap prevention. The Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) Commander LT. Col. Kenneth J Anderson, Deployment and Distribution Flight, OIC Capt. Kiley Hand, Operations and Compliance Superintendent Senior Master Sgt. Matthew R. Rose, Asset Management Supervisor Senior Master Sgt. Ralph Burrows, Unit Safety Representative Tech. Sgt. Joanna M Blackburn, assistant Unit Safety Representative Senior Airman Andrew Thompson, and Building Manager Master Sgt. Melissa N. Shenefiel work together as a team to support and comply with the 107 Airlift Wing Mishap Prevention Program.

The combined effort of this group helped to make their building a safe and healthful environment. Their attention to detail was demonstrated during a recent renovation which included the loss of the building's fire alarm system and a significant water damage event. Using daily construction related hazard assessments and appropriate risk management measures, their efforts allowed the LRS to occupy their facility and still remain insulated from all construction related hazards resulting in zero mishaps. Their commitment to the safety ethos, risk management, and mishap prevention are exemplary. Col. John Higgins, Wing Commander gave a letter of appreciation and unit coin to the Airmen for a job well done.

"Safety is about preserving combat capabilities. If we don't think in those terms every day -- on and off duty -- we're not doing our job." Air Force Chief of Safety, Maj. Gen. Margaret H. Woodward