Reserve F-22 pilots lend expertise to Red Flag Alaska

by Capt. Ashley Conner
477th Fighter Group Public Affairs

8/24/2013 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- With more than 20 Red Flag exercises between them, Majs. Caleb Haley and Jonathan Gration are a part of a group of Air Force Reserve Command F-22 pilots from the 302nd Fighter Squadron here who bring a diversified skill set to Red Flag Alaska 13-3.

"I've been in about 10 Red Flags as an Air Force aggressor pilot," said Haley. "This is my first Red Flag on the blue side."

During his time as an aggressor pilot, Haley's job was to replicate the tactics used by enemy forces in combat situations, known as "red air". Now as a "good guy" in the "blue air", he is able to take his previous training to ensure success.

"The aggressors are very good at replicating threat countries," said Haley. "If blue air makes mistakes, the aggressors will punish those mistakes without mercy! Knowing this gets my adrenaline pumping and motivates me to be on my game every time."

Along with Haley's aggressor expertise, Gration, who graduated from the first F-22 weapon school class in 2009, brings a wealth of knowledge as one of the most experienced F-22 weapons officers in the Air Force.

"Being able to pass along lessons learned from previous exercises so we don't relearn the same lessons is important," he said. "There are a lot of pilots in the squadron that are flying in Red Flag-Alaska for the first time. It's incumbent on us old, more seasoned guys to make sure we educate the new guys."

During the two-week exercise that concluded Aug. 23, the F-22 pilots flew two or three, two and a half hour sorties, a week and mission planned on the days they weren't flying.

"Red Flag is the closest we get to simulating air combat. It provides us an opportunity to mission plan and execute a Large Force Exercise with all types of aircraft with different roles and mission sets," said Gration. "This flag is especially unique in that there are international players to include Japan, South Korea, and Australia. I hope to gain a better understanding of the capabilities and limitations of all the different units so that when it comes to executing the real job one day, whether in a Joint or Combined manner, I can help the team most effectively integrate to achieve mission success."

LRS, 46 years of friendship

by Airman 1st Class Kaleb Snay
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/24/2013 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan  -- If a large group of people come together with a common goal, they can accomplish great things through hard work and dedication. For more than 45 years the 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron has come together to support a group of kids in need.

Located in Aomori City, Japan, the Fuji Seiboen orphanage currently has about 70 children trying to live cohesively like a family.

Adoptions tend to be rare, so the children must get used to spending their days together, said Takeji Araya, Fuji Seiboen orphanage liason. Life can be uneventful at times, which is where the 35 LRS shows how much they care.

Since the late 1960s, the 35 LRS has built a tradition of visiting the orphanage once a year, buying gifts and spreading cheer, to the children during Christmas. As time passed, LRS felt one celebration a year wasn't enough. In 2011 a new tradition was born where the children would come out for some summer fun, at Misawa Air Base.

"Three years ago, before a squadron picnic, we decided to invite the orphanage to see if they would like to join us," said Tech. Sgt. Suleiman Meho, 35 LRS non-commissioned officer in charge of personal property. "We ended up having a beach party complete with a good old American barbeque. They loved it, they were really thankful that we invited them and so we continued to do so again in 2012, and this year."

As the children prepare for school in September, the 35 LRS once again prepared food, and fun at Misawa Air Base. The children's ages vary from two to 18, and about 80 children are expected each year, along with their adult chaperones.

"We did it again this year at Leftwich Park," said Meho. "We had a blast. We got the grills out for burgers and hotdogs. There were bouncy castles, tug-o-war and volleyball. Other than the language barrier, it was almost like a carnival for them."

With all the activities going on at the picnic, there is excitement around every corner for both the children and LRS.

"My favorite part is seeing the children's reactions," said Maj. Paul Miller, 35 LRS commander. "They have a light in their eyes as they get a chance to just have fun playing games. We try our best to make sure the events are as robust and fulfilling as we can, and each year we like to throw in something new."

Money for the picnic is raised throughout the year with donations and fundraising events on American Day, Freedom Fest, and more. During the Christmas get-together, members from LRS will often sponsor a child and buy gifts for each child, individually.

Although 35 LRS has been supporting Fuji Seiboen for more than 45 years, the orphanage was supported by service members before. Traced back to 1948, two years after the orphanage was founded, American service members showed their support in the form of food supplies and blankets. This shows that LRS has continued a legacy that started three years after the U.S. military first arrived at Misawa Air Base.

"It's an honor to show our support and have it welcomed in return. It enriches both LRS and the orphanage," said Miller. "These days there are many opportunities to get involved with the community. The Japanese community has been good to us and this is one way of showing our thanks. I'm very happy to be able to participate in such a positive community event and I hope this relationship will continue to grow in the years to come."

Commission visits Tinker, gains insights from Airmen

by Maj. Jon Quinlan
507th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

8/26/2013 - TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The National Commission on the Structure of the Air Force visited with National Guard, Air Force Reserve and active-duty members here Aug. 20 to get their perspectives on how best to shape the future force.

The commission was established by Congress earlier this year to study the Air Force's three components to determine if and how the structure should be modified to best fill current and future mission requirements with available resources. This independent analysis and the commission's recommendations are due to the president and Congress by Feb. 1, 2014.

Reservists from the 507th Air Refueling Wing along with their Air Reserve Component association partners, Oklahoma Air National Guard's 137th ARW, came together to provide the commissioners a unique look at the KC-135 association through briefings, tours and discussions.

Reservists in the 513th Air Control Group provided the commissioners a look at the E-3 Sentry and detailed how their classic association with the active-duty 552nd Air Control Wing has garnered success, especially in support of the combatant commanders in deployed theaters.

"We're here to listen and learn," said the Honorable Dennis M. McCarthy, the commission's chair, a retired U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant general and a previous assistant secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs at the Pentagon. "You've got some great people here, and that's no surprise."

Along with McCarthy, three other commissioners visited Tinker AFB. They are former Oklahoma Adjutant General, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Harry (Bud) M. Wyatt III, retired Air Force Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr., and Dr. Janine A. Davidson.

During the visit, the commissioners ate breakfast with junior grade Airmen. Wyatt later recalled a theme that came out of the breakfast with one guardsman telling him, "I want to be trained to get into the fight, to do the mission," said Wyatt. "They want to be part of the operational force."

The executive director of the commission, Dr. James Blackwell highlighted that the visit to Tinker and all visits they make are important steps in gathering information so the commission can make the best recommendations.

"Once again we have heard from the Airmen about the real impact of transforming the Air Force. What we heard today is confirming what we have heard at other visits," Blackwell said. "We have seen different perspectives here and you can really tell the Airmen speak with a lot of conviction."

Tinker AFB has all members of the total force team, guard, reserve, active duty and a robust civilian workforce. This made Tinker a prime location for the commission to see total force integration in action and to see details about the unit associations.

"One thing that was unique about our visit to Tinker is that here your tanker units (507th and 137th ARWs) have a real unique association," Blackwell said. "It's the first time the commission has seen an ARC association, and it provided us with a lot of valuable information."

The commission held an off-base hearing in Midwest City, Okla. next to the base. They first heard from squadron commanders and superintendents from the active, guard and reserve units on Tinker. Next they heard from state and local community leaders as well as members of the public.

U.S. Senator James M. Inhofe and Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin each addressed the panel highlighting the importance of the commission's visit and their recommendations in the defense of the nation.

"The commissioners heard something else here for the first time. The military has been accustomed, in a decade of wartime decision making, to focusing on effectiveness," executive director Blackwell said. "Now for the foreseeable future, the Air Force has to focus on a steady state that will emphasize peace time cost effectiveness. That message seemed to resonate with commissioners."

The NCSAF will continue to visit with more units with future visits scheduled for Selfridge ANG Base, Michigan and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

(Barry Willey, NCSAF public affairs contributed to this story)

Vigilant Eagle continues closer U.S.-Russian cooperation

By Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service

Published August 26, 2013

WASHINGTON (AFPS) --

Beginning Aug. 27, fighter jets from the North American Aerospace Defense Command and the Russian air force will scramble to track and intercept "hijacked" aircraft during an air defense exercise viewed as a steppingstone toward closer military-to-military cooperation in additional areas.

Vigilant Eagle 13 kicked off Aug. 26, with scenarios that present the United States, Canada and Russia with a common enemy: terrorist hijackers, Joseph Bonnet, director of joint training and exercises for NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, said during a telephone interview with American Forces Press Service.

The exercise is the fifth in a series, based on a 2003 agreement between the sitting U.S. and Russian presidents to strengthen the two militaries' relationship and their ability to work together. The threat of international hijackers served as a foundation to help advance that effort, resulting in an exercise program that addresses a recognized threat, Bonnet explained.

Vigilant Eagle began in 2008 as a command post exercise. At Russia's request, it now alternates between CPXs that test out principles and procedures in a computer-based setting and "live-fly" exercises that apply those principles and procedures the following year.

This year's exercise is the third in the series to incorporate actual aircraft, Bonnet reported. A Russian Tupolev and a commercial aircraft contracted by the United States will simulate commercial airliners seized by terrorists. The U.S. Air Force's Airborne Warning and Control System and Russia's A-50 Beriev will serve as command-and-control platforms.

Live fighter jets -- Canadian CF-18 Hornets and Russian Sukhois -- will track, identify, intercept and follow the hijacked aircraft, and both Canada and Russia will conduct air-to-air refueling operations. The Canadian air force has been integral to past Vigilant Eagle exercises, but is contributing aircraft for the first time this year, Bonnet said.

In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration and its Russian equivalent are participating.

The scenario involves two "hijacked" commercial aircraft that challenge participants on the ground and in the sky to provide a coordinated response, Bonnet explained. The first flight, to originate tomorrow from Anchorage, Alaska, will travel into Russian airspace. The following day, a Russian aircraft will take off from Anadyr, Russia, toward U.S. airspace.

When the aircraft fail to respond to communications, NORAD, the U.S.-Canada command that safeguards U.S. skies under Operation Noble Eagle, and the Russian air force will move into action. Both will launch or divert fighter jets to investigate and follow the suspect aircraft headed toward each other's airspace. At that point, they will hand off the missions to each other to complete.

Working together in Anchorage and Anadyr and at the NORAD headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colo., participants will cooperate in escort and handoff procedures using two distinct communications, command-and-control and air traffic control systems, Bonnet said.

Vigilant Eagle has become more ambitious and valuable with each iteration, Bonnet said, noting that this year's exercise will be no different.

"This is the culmination of everything that has gone on in previous exercises, and we expect it to continue to mature," he said. "Like us, the Russian Federation air force is eager to expand the scope and complexity of the exercise, and to look into other areas," such as related search-and-rescue and airfield operations.

Bonnet called continuation of Vigilant Eagle, particularly at a time when budget costs have caused the cancellation of many other exercises, a success in itself. With fewer than 100 people directly involved from the United States, Vigilant Eagle offers tremendous "bang for the buck," he said.

"This is a small, relatively inexpensive exercise with a huge payoff," he said. "It doesn't cost any of the countries a lot of money, but it is building things that have immediate value for all of them. When you have procedures and a means of communicating information between both sides, that has a lot of value."

Another big success, Bonnet said, is that the exercise has transcended leadership changes both in the United States and in Russia, as well as recent political tensions between them.

Both countries recognize the importance of continued cooperation to keep their international borders safe, he said.

"It is one of the biggest single areas where the Russian Federation, U.S. and Canada can truly cooperate," he said. "All three countries share a common objective in thwarting, combating and cooperating against terrorism."

As their militaries work together to confront terrorist hijackers, Bonnet said, they are laying the foundation for future cooperation in other areas.

"What we are trying to do is continually build and expand the exercise and use this as a basis for moving the relationship forward," he said. "That, to me, is the biggest value of Vigilant Eagle."

Overcoming contingencies: 91st MW conducts natural disaster field training exercise

by 1st Lt. Jose R. Davis
Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

8/26/2013 - MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The 91st Missile Wing conducted a field training exercise here, Aug. 20, to evaluate and validate the integration and response of emergency management, security forces, fire department, medical and missile field operations during a natural-disaster situation.

The exercise was conducted at one of Minot AFB's training launch facilities. Evaluators from Air Force Global Strike Command were on hand to inspect the efficacy of the 91st MW's and 5th Bomb Wing's total-force response to the singular event.

This field training exercise provides training similar to the Nuclear Weapon Accident Incident Exercise (NUWAIX) held here in 2012, but on a far smaller scale.

In the exercise scenario, a payload transporter, carrying an important missile wing asset, is en route to one of the missile facilities out in the prairies of North Dakota, near the towns of Carpio and Berthold, N.D. A sporadic storm system, common in North Dakota during the summer season, enters the vicinity of where the payload transporter is located. The storm system eventually develops into a tornado, with estimated winds of 166 to 200 mph. The 91st MW commander orders a shelter-in-place directive, ordering the payload transporter to shelter at the nearby missile alert facility, Juliet 1. The tornado's path is inevitable; the tornado passes within 50 meters of Juliet 1.

The exercise scenario also included significant damage to the payload transporter: the catalyst for a full-scale, integrated emergency response to the site.

"These contingency exercises are very important for us," said Col. Robert J. Vercher, commander of the 91st Missile Wing. "They prepare us for various scenarios, such as tornados and other natural events, which can occur outside of our control."

In 2003, President George W. Bush issued Homeland Security Presidential Directive-5, providing a single and comprehensive approach to domestic incident management. From the directive came the National Response Framework and the National Incident Management System (NIMS), which instantiated a required multi-agency response to any domestic incident or accident of significant consequence.

Based on this framework, various federal, state and local government agencies would converge onto the site involving a 91st MW asset. This exercise is meant to practice such integrated response of all the various government agencies involved.

"In this scenario, which involves very important national resources, a combined federal, state and local response is expected," said Vercher. "Providing a safe and secure deterrent force is our mission, so naturally we want to execute and train hard for unexpected circumstances."

The field training exercise is only one aspect of the 91st MW's three-day training. For the next two days, AFGSC evaluators will sit down with the 91st MW and supporting agencies to go over strengths and weakness of their initial response during the field training portion, in addition to a step-by-step walkthrough of the transition process, from the incident response force initially on scene to the response task force that concludes the situation.

Reserve F-22 pilots lend expertise to Red Flag Alaska

by Capt. Ashley Conner
477th Fighter Group Public Affairs

8/24/2013 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- With more than 20 Red Flag exercises between them, Majs. Caleb Haley and Jonathan Gration are a part of a group of Air Force Reserve Command F-22 pilots from the 302nd Fighter Squadron here who bring a diversified skill set to Red Flag Alaska 13-3.

"I've been in about 10 Red Flags as an Air Force aggressor pilot," said Haley. "This is my first Red Flag on the blue side."

During his time as an aggressor pilot, Haley's job was to replicate the tactics used by enemy forces in combat situations, known as "red air". Now as a "good guy" in the "blue air", he is able to take his previous training to ensure success.

"The aggressors are very good at replicating threat countries," said Haley. "If blue air makes mistakes, the aggressors will punish those mistakes without mercy! Knowing this gets my adrenaline pumping and motivates me to be on my game every time."

Along with Haley's aggressor expertise, Gration, who graduated from the first F-22 weapon school class in 2009, brings a wealth of knowledge as one of the most experienced F-22 weapons officers in the Air Force.

"Being able to pass along lessons learned from previous exercises so we don't relearn the same lessons is important," he said. "There are a lot of pilots in the squadron that are flying in Red Flag-Alaska for the first time. It's incumbent on us old, more seasoned guys to make sure we educate the new guys."

During the two-week exercise that concluded Aug. 23, the F-22 pilots flew two or three, two and a half hour sorties, a week and mission planned on the days they weren't flying.

"Red Flag is the closest we get to simulating air combat. It provides us an opportunity to mission plan and execute a Large Force Exercise with all types of aircraft with different roles and mission sets," said Gration. "This flag is especially unique in that there are international players to include Japan, South Korea, and Australia. I hope to gain a better understanding of the capabilities and limitations of all the different units so that when it comes to executing the real job one day, whether in a Joint or Combined manner, I can help the team most effectively integrate to achieve mission success."

On 40th anniversary, Air National Guard MAFFS crews busy fighting wildfires

by Army Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill
National Guard Bureau

8/26/2013 - ARLINGTON, Va.  -- Air National Guard crews from two states were dousing wildfires from the air in three western states this week as the National Guard marked its 40-year anniversary flying aircraft equipped with the Modular Airborne Firefighting System.

MAFFS-equipped C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft and support personnel from the California National Guard's 146th Air Wing and the Wyoming National Guard's 153rd Air Wing were dropping retardant or water on six wildfires in California, Idaho and Nevada.

The Colorado Springs Air Force Reserve Command's 302nd Air Wing also was engaged with the fires, adding a fifth MAFFS-equipped C-130 to the mix as wildfires raged in the West.

Three Air National Guard units and one Air Force Reserve unit can contribute up to eight MAFFS to support the Forest Service's annual wildfire battle. The third MAFFS-equipped Air National Guard unit is the Charlotte, N.C., 145th Airlift Wing.

Airmen started flying the Congressionally-established MAFFS mission to assist the Forest Service in wildfire suppression in 1973. Through Monday, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve crews had flown 10,294 sorties, logged 10,945 flying hours and dropped more than 28.2 million gallons of water or retardant in 40 years of service.

"Since the program started in 1973, service members have provided MAFFS support during 29 of those years," said Army Gen. Frank Grass, the chief of the National Guard Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. "Air National Guard MAFFS crews have fought wildfires in the United States, Europe, Africa and Indonesia, and we are proud of this unique contribution to civil authorities' firefighting efforts."

According to National Guard Bureau officials, MAFFS crews average 251 sorties, fly 267 hours and drop 688,292 gallons of water or retardant. The last three years have seen significant wildfire activity and been far from average for the MAFFS mission.

With four months left in the year, 2013 already had seen crews log 378 sorties through Monday, dropping 904,631 gallons. Air National Guard crews flew 884 sorties and dropped more than 2.3 million gallons in 2012. In 2011, crews flew 443 sorties and dropped 1.2 million gallons.

"We implemented a new system in 2011," Grass explained. "MAFFS II has given us improved capability. It's less reliant on ground equipment and personnel. Onboard compressors have reduced downtime and allowed us to make multiple drops on each mission. The new system provides better coverage and is cleaner and more environmentally friendly."

The MAFFS mission brings defense support to civil authorities after the capabilities of commercial and contract air tankers have been exhausted.

Guided by Forest Service aircraft, the C-130 Hercules releases water or retardant in less than five seconds from special tanks through two tubes at the rear of the airframe, saturating an area one-quarter of a mile long by 100 feet wide, which can provide critical fire breaks on the leading edge of fires.

The aircraft require only minor electrical modifications. The MAFFS is loaded from specially designed trailers at each operational unit.

The National Guard also supports civil authorities with UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook and UH-72 Lakota helicopters that use water buckets to extinguish wildfires, in addition to numerous other capabilities the Guard can bring to the Forest Service's fight, including medevac support and ground-based troops providing firefighting, traffic control and other support.

"Our contribution to Forest Service wildfire suppression is a significant domestic operation that greatly helps civil authorities in the 54 states and territories," Grass said. "We are proud to be a part of the team of local, state and federal agencies engaged in this vital mission."

U.S., Chinese Navies Exercise Counterpiracy in Gulf of Aden

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2013 – After concluding an ambitious counterpiracy exercise yesterday with the Chinese navy, members of the U.S. 5th Fleet expressed hope it will lay groundwork for closer future cooperation in ensuring freedom of movement in the Gulf of Aden, other regional waters, and beyond.

An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter assigned to the “Swamp Foxes” of Maritime Helicopter Combat Squadron 74 departs the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason during a U.S.-China cross-deck landing exercise with the Chinese navy destroyer Harbin in the Gulf of Aden, Aug. 24, 2013. The operation was part of a two-day counterpiracy exercise between U.S. 5th Fleet and the Chinese navy. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rob Aylward   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Mason joined the Chinese destroyer Harbin and Chinese auxiliary replenishment oiler Weishanhu for the two-day exercise in the Gulf of Aden, Navy Capt. Joseph Naman, commander of Destroyer Squadron 50 and Task Force 55, said during a phone interview from Bahrain.

The Chinese oiler played the role of a pirated vessel, as crew members from the Mason and Harbin conducted a combined visit, board, search and seizure drill that included a night boarding, reported Navy Cmdr. D. Wilson Marks, Mason’s commanding officer.

Simulated medical emergencies and hostage scenarios required the sailors to work together to provide a coordinated response.
In addition, the crews demonstrated synchronized maneuver techniques during a live-fire proficiency exercise, engaging an inflatable target with the 5-inch MK-45 lightweight gun and 3.9-inch ENG deck guns, Marks said.

Another “significant milestone,” Naman said, was the landing of a helicopter from each country aboard the deck of each other’s ship.

The exercise represented a big step beyond the first counterpiracy exercise between 5th Fleet and the Chinese navy, conducted in September near the Horn of Africa, Naman said. The 2012 exercise, which involved the USS Winston S. Churchill and the Chinese frigate Yi Yang, lasted only about six hours and was limited to a basic visit, board, search and secure exercise, follow-on discussion and crew lunch.
Throughout this week’s mission, Marks said, he was struck by how similarly the two navies operate.
“What my crew found out is they are sailors like we are,” practicing many of the same techniques as they confronted the same challenges, he said.

Both the United States and China recognize the importance of freedom of access and movement in the maritime environment, uninhibited by piracy or other illicit activity, Naman noted.

“I think both China and the U.S. share the common goal to make that happen,” he said.

Both navies, for example, regularly conduct counterpiracy operations in the Gulf region.

The United States is part of a multinational coalition task force that works collaboratively in and around the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. China, in contrast, operates independently. Naman said he would like to see that change, and that he hopes exercises like the one conducted over the weekend will encourage China to consider joining the coalition.

International cooperation and measures taken by the civilian shipping industry to discourage pirates have brought a dramatic drop in piracy compared to just three to four years ago, he reported.

“The sum of the parts is greater than the one, which is what the coalition brings in,” Marks said. “You can share best practices, build on each other’s strengths [and] capitalize on those strengths. … We are all working toward that shared goal of freedom of movement in the maritime [domain]. So if we all share the same goal, we ought to be working together, and that is what we are really trying to do.”
In the meantime, he said, exercising together helps to increase interoperability between the U.S. and Chinese navies that they can draw on in the future, anywhere in the world.

“As we have learned in the past, military-to-military engagement pays big dividends, because we operate in the same environment and … share the same common goals for that maritime environment,” Naman said.

Marks, who called the exercise “one of those once-in-a-career experiences,” said he and his crew hope for more opportunities to work with the Chinese navy.

For one of the participants, Navy Seaman Yi An, the exercise was particularly memorable. A naturalized U.S. citizen, the culinary specialist was born in China’s Quingdao province -- which the Harbin’s crew calls home.

Yi served as an interpreter during the exercise, generating a lot of excitement among the Chinese sailors as he shared hometown stories, Marks said. He was treated as an honored guest aboard the Harbin during a luncheon yesterday that concluded the exercise.

But exercising with their Chinese counterparts gave the entire Mason crew new insights, Marks said.
“Watching U.S. and Chinese sailors working side by side was amazing,” he said. “We may come from different places and speak a different language, but at the end of the day, we all share a common interest in protecting the maritime environment.”

(Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Rob Aylward contributed to this article.)

McChord Airman wins SAPR poster contest

by Staff Sgt. Jason Truskowski
62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

8/23/2013 - JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- Having an artistic bone in your body is handy; being able to create something that inspires and motivates others to be better Airmen is pure talent.

For Airman 1st Class Travis Gallegos, 627th Communication Squadron cyber systems operator, drawing has always been a part of his daily life. In 2011, prior to joining the Air Force, he obtained an Associate's of Graphic Design from Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell, Mont.

Gallegos, a native of Columbia Falls, Mont., was the winner of the 2013 Sexual Assault Response and Prevention program poster contest at McChord Field.

"Sexual Assault is an on-going issue and I have seen the heartache and pain caused by it," said Gallegos. "This was my way of helping to stop sexual assault."

The SAPR poster contest was an initiative thought up by dormitory SAPR-focus groups to help raise awareness of sexual assault for the dorm residents of Team McChord. These focus groups, which are entirely made up of dorm residents, come up with ways to prevent sexual assault in their living areas and are hoping to expand their coverage throughout all of Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

"We wanted to hear from the Airmen since they are the ones most-often impacted by sexual assault," said Heather VanMill, 62nd Airlift Wing SAPR program manager. "It is a way to help the Airmen have ownership of the SAPR program, which will make the overall program more robust."

A number of designs were submitted and Gallegos' design was selected to help exemplify the SAPR program at McChord Field.

"The winning poster represents a key message from our senior leaders that we (all of us) must own the solution to stopping sexual assault in our ranks," said Col. Jeff Philippart, 62nd Airlift Wing vice commander.

The poster, which will be hung in the dormitory common areas until April 2014, embodies the message the Department of Defense is trying to portray to the members of the uniformed services. Gallegos incorporated April's DoD sexual assault awareness -month theme, "We Own It, We'll Solve It...Together," and included the teal colored ribbon representing sexual assault awareness.

"I wanted to go with that theme and make it personal," said Gallegos. "I decided to draw the words out in the most clean, professional way I could."

"I can't take all the credit; I am nothing without my friends and family helping me put on the finishing touches and giving me helpful ideas to improve the overall outcome of my design."

Gallegos would like to pass the following to the Airmen of Team McChord, "We have had meeting after meeting concerning the issues of sexual assault. The day you come to work and don't hear about sexual assault is the day all those briefings will have paid off. The only thing that matters is you, 'make a change, be the difference', and stop sexual assault."

Grand Forks Airman earns second chance for AMC Icon title

by Staff Sgt. Luis Loza Gutierrez
319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- A Grand Forks Air Force Base Warrior of the North is scheduled to compete for the title of AMC Icon for the second year in a row.

Airman 1st Class Andrew Hicks, 319th Medical Operations Squadronan aerospace medical technician, earned the first-place award for a military member in the local Air Mobility Command Icon contest on Aug. 16, 2013, at the Northern Lights Club. He will now compete for the AMC-wide title.

Last year, Hicks finished second at Grand Forks, but was able to represent the base in the AMC-wide contest after the first-place finisher pulled out of contention due to a change of station.

Hicks isn't the only person smiling because of his repeat selection.

"My family and friends back home became very excited after I shared the news, but I think my wife [Jalincia Bryant], was the most ecstatic about the result," said 25-year-old Airman from Colorado Springs, Colo. "I give my lovely wife a lot of credit for winning because she picked the song."

Hicks performed a rendition of the soul music hit, "This is a Man's World" by James Brown.

The event is an AMC commander's initiative. It is loosely based around the hit TV show American Idol. Each of the 10 bases under Air Mobility Command have hosted competitions during July or August.

This year's AMC Icon final competition will be different from previous years. Judges will rate the local contest winners and select a winner based off of taped performances instead of having them travel and perform in front of a live audience.

Hicks remains very optimistic about his chances, although he didn't place during last year's final competition.

"I have a feeling that the competition will be a fun experience despite the changes and I know everyone will give it their all just as I plan on doing as well."

ESGR award 'maintains' Reserve, active-duty relationship

by Master Sgt. Jake Chappelle
446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. -- Master Sgt. Roy Osman supports two different Team McChord units with the same mission.

On one end, he works as a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft maintenance technician Airman with the 446th Maintenance Squadron. On the other end, he's a full-time C-17 civilian mechanic with the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

The 30-plus-year veteran admits he doesn't play all of the roles in the McChord maintenance machine. Assistance from his leadership and peers allow him to easily transition back and forth between squadrons. Recently, he demonstrated this acknowledgement by nominating his civilian supervisor, Rich Arnold, for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award.

The Patriot Award is given when a Reservist or Guardsman nominates their civilian supervisor, or boss, to display their appreciation for the recognition and support they have given to the service member in respect to their military duty.

"Mr. Arnold has been a great supporter of my commitment to the Reserve," Osman said. "It's been good to know he was in my corner back in the states, while I was deployed."

Arnold, a 62nd AMXS Maintenance Operations supervisor, said he appreciates the award and, as a retired chief master sergeant, can relate to the necessary demands of current Airmen.

"I'm humbled," Arnold said. "It's such a joy to work with these guys; I often feel I don't support them enough."

But Osman's experience during his latest deployment was enough to warrant a nomination--and it worked.

"I have been on deployments that have gone from six months to a year," Osman said. "The last one was a yearlong to recover a C-17 that ran off of the runway. Mr. Arnold always emailed me to see if I could use anything, or to be a sounding board to see how things were going for me personally while I was over there."

Arnold said as critical as Osman is to the McChord mission, allowing him to stay in theater to continue repairing the damaged aircraft was a no-brainer.

"I realized he was as important to the C-17 mission deployed as much as he was at home," he said. "He is a critical piece of our home station effort. But I received phone calls from (Air Mobility Command) and Boeing about how valuable he was at the deployed site, and how he established relationships with the host nation and the Army, which were also critical to recovering the disabled aircraft."

Arnold admires the knowledge and consistency Osman and other Reserve maintainers bring to the table.

"Roy and his peers bring a level of continuity and experience you could never duplicate with only active-duty folks," he said. "He is one of the most generous with his time and effort. I don't think he understands the word 'no.'"

Col. Craig Gaddis, 62nd Maintenance Group commander, said the award is a reminder of the crucial relationship between the 446th and 62nd Maintenance Groups.

"It shows both the commitment to the Reserve mission and the appreciation of the Reserve to the active-duty force for their willingness to allow people to serve in military and civilian status," he said.

Younger 62nd MXG maintainers also benefit from 446th MXG Citizen Airmen who've been around a while, according to Arnold.

"With such a mobile mission it becomes evident that the 446th is a huge experienced resource, not only in performing maintenance, but also as trainers to the young active-duty maintainers," he said.

Col. Alan Lerner, 446th MXG commander, also sees how the experience and stability of his Airmen, like Osman, benefit the younger maintainers who work on the McChord flightline.

"He is heavily relied upon at home station to provide upgrade training to both active-duty and Reserve maintainers," Lerner said. "I know the senior supervisors within his squadron are taking maximum advantage of his availability to mentor more junior maintainers in order to share his skills and experience before he retires."

The ESGR Patriot Award is not the only way to show civilian employers recognition for their support of the Air Force Reserve mission. The 446th Airlift Wing conducts an Employer Orientation Day, which recognizes employers and provides them a taste of the Reserve mission in only a half of a day.

Altus AFB shows continued mission readiness during inspection

by Senior Airman Kenneth W. Norman
97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The base recently participated in a Consolidated Unit Inspection conducted by the Air Education and Training Command Inspector General team, earning an overall grade of "Satisfactory" Aug. 12-16.

This inspection was the first of its kind since the release of new guidance combining a Unit Compliance Inspection, Aircrew Standardization and Evaluation, and Logistics Compliance Assessment Program all into one inspection.

During the inspection, more than 140 inspectors observed Altus AFB's programs, plans, and procedures to ensure adherence to Air Force Instruction and Department of Defense Directives.

The inspection results are graded with the Air Force five tier grading scale: Outstanding, Excellent, Satisfactory, Marginal, and Unsatisfactory. Altus AFB achieved impressive results, not scoring below a satisfactory in any of the eight major graded areas.

"This team pulled together a tremendous score and we need to take pride in the fact that we really did well," said Col. Bill Spangenthal, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "We scored a very high Satisfactory, which to me, with the challenges we've faced, is fantastic."

Altus AFB personnel showed continued mission readiness despite the challenges of fiscal restraints, civilian furloughs and more. As Colonel Spangenthal addressed the wing, he expressed pride in the results, highlighted top performers and noted strengths throughout the base.

"I know we have faced recent challenges with budget cuts and losing a large portion of our workforce to the furlough, but we overcame those challenges, pushed forward and effectively executed our mission," Spangenthal said. "I would like to thank each one of you for working hard with a can-do attitude and getting the mission done safely and efficiently every day."

Altus AFB Airmen and families participate in Great Plains Stampede Rodeo festivities

by Airman 1st Class Klynne Pearl J. Serrano
97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla.  -- The 15th Annual Base Cattle Drive, an event unique to Altus AFB, took place Aug. 22 to kick off the Great Plains Stampede Rodeo.

Altus Airmen and surrounding community members rode on horses to drive more than 40 longhorn cattle around the base while families, students and other base personnel watched and experienced the unique event.

The Cattle Drive is a tradition that started Aug. 23, 1999 when 15 horseback riders drove a herd of more than 30 longhorn cattle through Altus AFB.

"The Cattle Drive is tremendous," said Col. Bill Spangenthal, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "We had a great team effort between the base and the community to put this special event together--an event that no other Air Force Base does. It was a great opportunity for our Airmen and their families to experience. It's a ton of fun."

While the cattle and horses stopped to take a break from the Cattle Drive, spectators had the chance to pet the horses and interact with the riders.

"It was a great time," said Capt. Stuart Meyers, 54th Air Refueling Squadron instructor pilot. "It was an opportunity for the kids to see things they don't see every day and to just interact with the base and [local] community is outstanding."

The Great Plains Stampede Rodeo Military Appreciation Night is scheduled to take place later this evening. Altus Airmen and their families are encouraged to join the community with food, music and entertainment at the City of Altus rodeo grounds.

"I've never been to a rodeo I didn't like," Spangenthal said. "I can't wait to get out there [tonight] and spend a little time with my family and the local community to enjoy this great event."

Niagara Airman earns top performer honors at WAREX

by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Caya
914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. -- Two 30th Aerial Port Squadron Airmen here were recognized for their actions in support of Warrior Exercise/Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisc.

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Barnum and Senior Airman Michelle Reidel were acknowledged for their contributions for WAREX, July 12 through August 2.

The exercise provided units an opportunity to rehearse military maneuvers and tactics. Held in conjunction with WAREX, Global Medic is an annual joint-field training exercise designed to replicate all aspects of theater combat medical support.

Barnum, a special handling NCO, was named a top performer out of the 200 Airmen that participated in WAREX.

Barnum said he and the Niagara Team were part of the WAREX crew that set up and tore down the entire forward operating base.

"This had a deployment-like feel," said Barnum. "As soon as we landed, we unloaded our machinery and started working right away and didn't stop until the equipment was loaded back on the aircraft when the exercise ended."

Barnum said his troops also gained the attention of their superiors, praising Reidel in particular.

"Airman Reidel is new to our unit, but she's been a bright spot for us," said Barnum. "She did not shy away from any opportunities. She basically ran the whole passenger operation."

Reidel received a U.S. Army general's coin recognizing her for her work as a passenger service agent.

"While we were there we also assisted with manifesting passengers, cargo and ensured everyone was accounted for while on the aircraft," said Barnum. They knew who each and every aircraft passenger was and where they were located.

Reidel said she thoroughly enjoyed WAREX.

"It was a great training experience," said Reidel. "I was able to do things I've never done before. Going down there really helped me appreciate what we (Aerial Porters) do because what we do is awesome."

Duck pilots share stories with WWII vet

by Senior Airman Grace Lee
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/23/2013 - LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- It was a day to remember for Albert Winston, World War II pilot, who was surprised to see three guests in flight suits arrive at his 90th birthday celebration.

The three Luke F-16 pilots listened and shared stories with Winston Aug. 3 in Peoria.

For 1st Lt. Brian Herring, 309th Fighter Squadron student pilot, Winston's accomplishments as a pilot were quite impressive.

"He told us how he was a weather recon pilot flying the B-17 out of England and that he would fly from 100 to 1,000 feet above the water with only the basic instrumentation available back in WWII," Herring said. "This amazed us."

Winston also shared a humorous story that is one of Herring's favorites.

"While in the Reserve, Winston was asked by his superiors to be an instructor pilot for the T-6," Herring said. "He was handed a technical manual and told to come back in a week. When he returned, they threw him the keys and told him to have fun."

Herring said he was surprised because these days there are numerous steps and training to accomplish prior to taking the first flight.

When Herring asked Winston if he was nervous to fly after only reading the technical manual, Winston replied with a grin, "Why would I be scared? What's the worst that could happen, besides the fact that I could have killed myself?"

Winston began his career in the Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet and was called to active duty in the fall of 1942.

After marrying his childhood sweetheart, Winston was selected for pilot training Dec. 15, 1942, and trained in South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Arkansas and Virginia.

"In Virginia my crew was selected and trained for Pathfinder (radar) bombing in B-24s," Winston said. "In June 1944, I picked up a brand new B-24J at Bangor, Maine, and flew to Gander, Newfoundland, and then across the Atlantic to Prestwick. I was transported to Belfast, North Ireland, for training in escaping if shot down over Europe."

Winston's Army Air Corps career also included flying from England to south of the tip of Ireland with extremely heavy loads of fuel and machine gun ammunition.

Winston said the task was dangerous since they flew at 1,000 feet and every 100 miles they had to drop to 100 feet over the ocean so the weatherman on board in the bombardier seat could get his readings. This meant holding the plane at 100 feet above sometimes 30 to 40 foot waves for seven or eight minutes. At one time, the crew actually flew up to 25,000 feet. The flights took up to 17 hours to complete.

"We had a 35-percent loss of aircraft," Winston said. "If we didn't hear from the flights that didn't return, we had to assume they flew into the water. Many of our planes were lost on take-offs and landings in the crummy English weather. We had none of the wonderful electronic gear the planes have now."

With so much flying experience in the Army Air Corps, it is no surprise that Winston continues to inspire pilots such as Herring and 1st Lts. Joshua Rosecrans and Stowe Symon, also student pilots with the 309th FS.

"I learned what it meant to be a true American hero," Herring said. "He has done it all including flying general aviation until he was 84 years old. He is an amazing role model and someone I aspire to be like."

The rare opportunity to speak with a WWII pilot and listen to his experiences reminded Rosecrans of his reason for joining the service in the first place.

"The biggest thing I learned is that being a pilot is the best job in the world," Rosecrans said. "I can still recall the excitement on Winston's face when he told his stories. I look forward to having those same memories as I continue my career in the Air Force."

Although the pilots feel honored to have met Winston, the WWII veteran said he is appreciative of the pilots celebrating his birthday with him.

"It was nice that they were so accommodating," Winston said. "I would like to thank everyone at Luke Air Force Base for having the pilots come out and see me."

Egypt’s Defense Minister Calls Hagel to Discuss Developments

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2013 – Egyptian Defense Minister Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi called Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel in Malaysia today to discuss developments in Egypt, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel speaks on the telephone with Egyptian Defense Minister Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi while on an official visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Aug. 24, 2013. Hagel said Egypt must make progress on the political roadmap and refrain from violence. The secretary, who also will travel to Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines, is in the Asia-Pacific region to deepen cooperation with each nation and discuss regional security issues. DOD photo by Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron Hostutler   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Hagel is in Malaysia as part of a trip through the Asia-Pacific region.

In a statement summarizing the call, Little said el-Sissi updated Hagel on the security situation throughout Egypt, as well as progress on the political roadmap.

“Secretary Hagel stressed the importance of an inclusive, transparent political process that includes all Egyptians, and that differences must be resolved without violence,” the press secretary said.

The Egyptian defense minister also updated Hagel on security developments on the Sinai Peninsula, Little added, and Hagel expressed appreciation for Egypt's efforts to ensure the security of the U.S. Embassy facilities and all U.S. personnel serving in Egypt.

Face of Defense: Pilot Carries Father’s Legacy Forward

By Sonic Johnson
14th Flying Training Wing

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss., Aug. 23, 2013 – When Air Force 2nd Lt. Jon Koritz graduated from undergraduate pilot training here Aug. 16, he joined a long list of military aviators, including his late father, Air Force Maj. (Dr.) Tom Koritz, one of six pilot-physicians flying in the Air Force at the time.

Air Force Col. Billye Hutchison, left, poses for a photo with Air Force 2nd Lt. Jon Koritz and his mother, Julianne Koritz, outside the Koritz Clinic at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., Aug. 3, 2013. The clinic was renamed in 2008 in honor of Maj. (Dr.) Thomas Koritz, an Air Force physician-pilot and father of the lieutenant, who was killed in action during the second night of combat in Operation Desert Storm in 1991. Hutchinson is the 14th Medical Group commander at Columbus Air Force Base, Miss., where Koritz graduated from undergraduate pilot training later in the month. U.S. Air Force photo by Sonic Johnson   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Koritz’s father was killed in action on the second night of combat during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 while flying an F-15E Strike Eagle. He was survived by his wife, Julianne, and three sons: Tim, Jon and Scott.

"To walk across this stage, the same stage my father walked across with class 82-01 to receive his wings, is a very special moment for me and my family," Koritz said.

Koritz graduated in 2008 from East Carolina University and entered the business world in North Carolina, but he still harbored a passion for aviation. His girlfriend and his soon-to-be father-in-law, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Steve Lofgren, encouraged his pursuit and his eventual acceptance to Officer Training School in 2011.

The lieutenant rapidly learned how small the Air Force is when he reported to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, after OTS for pre-flight medical screening. The physician for his physical had served as a flight surgeon in the 4th Medical Group at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., with Koritz's father.

Koritz was joined by his wife, his mother, his brothers and other family members and friends Aug. 2, when the members of class 13-13 received their assignments. Sixteen friends and family members were on hand to see Koritz's excitement when he received his assignment to the F-15E Strike Eagle.
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Tom Travis, the Air Force surgeon general, delivered the keynote address to the newly minted aviators during the ceremony. Travis, like Koritz’s father, is an Air Force pilot-physician.
The lieutenant’s mother, Julianne Koritz, said she is proud of her son’s accomplishment and predicted that his passion for aviation will take him far.

"This is both bittersweet and difficult," she said. "The solace of this moment is that I have never seen Jon happier. … He was meant to be an Air Force aviator."

This support from his loved ones was especially important, Koritz said.

"I am just fortunate to have this opportunity," he said. "It would have never happened without the love and support of my family and friends."

JDEWR brings fight to F-16 pilots

by Senior Airman Derek VanHorn
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Groundbreaking advancements to F-16 Fighting Falcon warfare training here arrived last week in the form of a Joint Deployable Electronic Warfare Range, or JDEWR.

The JDEWR is a weapon system that provides tactical-level training to participants in live training events. It's implemented as a threat capable of submitting ground threat defenses for bilateral and joint missions and exercises for United States Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Navy aircraft stationed here, according to Lt. Col. Kevin Jones, 35th Operations Support Squadron director of operations.

The mission of the 35th Fighter Wing is the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses - known as the Wild Weasels -- and focuses largely on the neutralization of enemy Surface to Air missile sites. In the past, Wild Weasels have had to fly to Red Flag exercises over Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, which use the JDEWR system, to get the most accurate training possible for their SEAD mission.

"As a SEAD wing, we need to be able to detect, locate, engage and kill enemy SAMs, antiaircraft artillery and their associated radars," said Capt. Matthew Karmondy, an F-16 pilot in the 14th Fighter Squadron who has flown in multiple Red Flag exercises. "The more our training matches reality, the better we'll be when the balloon goes up and we are called on to neutralize enemy threats."

Karmondy said once a SAM is located, the next step is how to best neutralize that threat, whether it be through avoidance, electronic jamming or kinetic means such as bombs, missiles or guns. Pilots were previously forced to simulate these attacks, and one of the realities was that the aspect of realistic feedback from the ground always fell short. Now, with this new system, pilots can fight back realistically, utilizing all aspects within the cockpit.

"That's exactly what the JDEWR allows us to do - train like we will fight in major combat operations," Karmondy said. "Short of putting missiles and bullets in the air, the JDEWR fights back. It's a hugely important asset."

Capt. Travis Smith, 35 OSS electronic warfare officer, said the JDEWR can simulate up to seven different target systems simultaneously in its current configuration.

"It's rapidly re-deployable as well, so we could have vastly different set ups for the pilots to fly against from exercise to exercise in our own backyard," Smith added.

Before the JDEWR's arrival, Jones said "We didn't get to see a real threat on the radar looking at us -- nothing triggered our radar warning receiver. But now the arrival of the JDEWR gives the ability to actually get a spike and act accordingly to that threat."

Having the equipment here for a realistic threat environment also postures Misawa to potentially host large scale exercises in the future, boosting value in regional training with other military assets.

"Joint and bilateral training is significant in that it's just the reality of how we are going to go to war in today's day and age," Jones said.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force has provided noteworthy assistance to Wild Weasels in recent months by opening up their SAM sites for training, albeit their availability was often limited, Karmody said.

The arrival of the JDEWR makes Misawa and its surrounding airspace a top-of-the-line training forum available 24/7.

The JDEWR is the first of its kind to be placed in Japan and will be based at Misawa's Draughon Range, an area located only 10 nautical miles north of the base where pilots are authorized to drop live ordnance during training.

Jones said Draughon Range is "one of the best kept secrets in the Air Force," lauding its ability to provide both tactical and conventional targets, while also being the only air-to-ground range in Northern Japan.

"It's great to see pilots learn on Draughon Range by practicing their attacks and growing as pilots," said Capt. Greg Balzhiser, 13th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot. "You can actually see the results on the ground right in front of you rather than having to simulate the results of an attack."

35 FW pilots generally fly in two airspaces - the Charlie airspace, a massive area located along the entire northwest coast of Japan, and the Bravo airspace to the east, which encompasses the valuable Gaicho airspace.

The Gaicho airspace was made available earlier this year and has played a large role in the comprehensive and innovative efforts of Misawa AB to become globally recognized in extensive fighter jet training. Gaicho airspace feeds off the east side of Draughon Range and expands the airspace approximately 50 miles over the Pacific Ocean to bridge the gap between Bravo airspace, providing pilots significant more space to engage in variations of combat training scenarios.

1st Lt. Dustin Carey, 13 FS F-16 pilot, said it's some of the best airspace in the world, and adding the JDEWR to the mix allows pilots to explore the full range of tactics in warfare.

"The JDEWR is absolutely imperative," Carey said. "We're the world's greatest Wild Weasels, and now that we have the emitter we'll be able to train exactly like we fight which is absolutely incredible."

Smith said the diversity of training won't stop with the JDEWR, and systems such as fidelity simulators, different modes within the jet, and even commercial, off-the-shelf hardware are used to practice against.

"We're constantly looking at the mission set and thinking about ways to augment training so that the 35th Operations Group will be more than ready for the fight," said Smith.

The JDEWR will be operated by contractors within Pacific Air Forces that have wide-ranging experience with Large Force Employment training, namely Red Flag, and in time will be training others to take over the operations here.

Jones said this prospect was made possible by determined coordination between 5th Air Force, PACAF and U.S. Forces Japan, and that base officials are working a plan to make this a permanent fixture here.

Cape Commander selected to represent US Team overseas

by 45th Space Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Lt. Col. David "Dash" Ashley, 5th Space Launch Squadron commander, was recently selected to participate in the 2013 U.S. Elite Mountain Bike Orienteering Team to represent the U.S. in this summer's 11th annual World Mountain Bike Orienteering Championships in Rakvere, Estonia, Aug. 26-31.

Ashley was one of four men selected for this year's team, and this is the first year that Florida Orienteering, the local orienteering club headquartered in Orlando, Fla., will be sending a men's team to the world championships.

Although the sport of Mountain Bike Orienteering is very popular in Europe, it still at an early stage in the U.S. Mountain Bike Orienteering competitions involve racing a mountain bike in both urban and wilderness areas to locate checkpoints and return to the finish line in the fastest possible time. Racers are only allowed to use a map and a compass. Global Positioning System devices are prohibited, and events typically last 25 to 90 minutes, depending on the difficulty of the course.

Earlier in August, FLO held an orienting meet as a fundraiser for those selected to go to Estonia for the world championship. Ashley assisted with placing and collecting checkpoints (called controls) during the event, registering individuals and recording their times. Over 12 hours of work resulted in over $400 raised.

Maj. Melissa Krambeck, from the 45th Space Wing Inspector General's office, also participated in the event with her daughter.

War Hero Credits Counseling for Continued Improvement

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2013 – On Oct. 3, 2009, 54 soldiers from Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, defended Combat Outpost Keating, near the town of Kamdesh in eastern Afghanistan’s Nuristan province, from an estimated 400 enemy fighters who breached and nearly overran the position.

Eight U.S. soldiers died during or after that day’s actions, and more than 25 were hurt. After a ceremony next week, two survivors of the battle will have the right to wear the star strung on a pale blue ribbon that the United States reserves for its most revered heroes: the Medal of Honor.

In an Aug. 26 White House ceremony, Army Staff Sgt. Ty Michael Carter will become the second soldier from the battle to receive the nation’s highest award for valor, with President Barack Obama, as commander in chief of the armed forces, presenting the medal. Six months ago, former Army Staff Sgt. Clinton L. Romesha received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the same battle.

Carter was a cavalry scout in the rank of specialist assigned to the outpost, which was scheduled to be closed. Carter was one of two soldiers who held back attackers on the southern flank of the outpost for some six hours. Speaking to reporters late last month at Joint Base Lewis-McCord, Wash., where he is now assigned, Carter described what the soldiers went through.

“The incoming firepower was so intense,” he said. “If you look at the sheer numbers [and realize] there were five of us there at the fighting position -- three men lost their lives there. There were also two [other] men who lost their lives trying to support that position.”

Carter has said that what troubles him the most is the death of his friend, Army Spc. Stephan L. Mace, who was 21 and from Virginia. Mace was wounded early in the fighting, and his fellow soldiers, Carter and Army Sgt. Bradley Larson, spent hours battling heavy incoming fire before they could get him to medical help. Mace later died of his wounds.

“When I saw Mace and I was told that I couldn’t get to him, it broke my heart,” Carter said. “A good man was lying there, wounded, begging for my help, and so dehydrated that he couldn’t even have tears. … He was in pain. But Larson being, the [noncommissioned officer] that he is -- he’s a great leader -- he knew that if I went out there, I’d be dead, too. And for that I owe him my life.”

Carter told reporters that after he and Larson fought their way to the aid station with Mace, he rejoined the rest of the unit, pushing back the attackers and dousing the fires the enemy had set.

“We spent the rest of the day continuing to gather our wounded, our killed in action, and retake the COP. … It felt very draining through the day,” he said. “Then there was a sorrow that went through the troop, because we found out that [Mace] was killed. That’s one of the main things that kind of affected me.”
Carter said his own physical injuries were scrapes and bruises, “a little bit of shrapnel,” concussion and hearing loss. He credits treatment for a different kind of wound with helping him go on living after the hell he saw in Nuristan.

“I have been in counseling ever since that incident,” he said. “And because of that counseling, I am able to be a good husband and a good father –- at least that’s what [his wife, Shannon Derby] tells me -- and I probably will continue to go to counseling, just so I can improve and be able to speak to individuals like yourselves.”

Navy Capt. Richard Stolz directs the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, overseeing three centers: the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, the Deployment Health Clinical Center and the National Center for Telehealth and Technology.

In an email interview, Stolz told American Forces Press Service that most service members who have deployed won’t ever develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, but an estimated 10 to 20 percent of the 2.6 million who have deployed since 2001 have or may have developed the condition.
All combat experiences have the potential to induce PTSD symptoms, Stolz said. Service members intent on staying alive in combat, he explained, push traumatic memories away and stay focused on the present danger.

“When service members return home, they often continue to follow the same strategy that helped them to survive in combat,” Stolz added. “When they experience distressing thoughts, feelings or images they do their best to bury them. However, in most cases, efforts to control any PTSD symptoms actually make them worse.”

Self-medicating and unhealthy coping mechanisms can lead to substance abuse, depression and anxiety, he noted.

“In many cases,” Stolz added, “the longer the symptoms are avoided, the worse they become and can lead to long-term disabilities.”

PTSD is highly treatable and a number of evidence-based treatment approaches are readily available, Stolz said. He noted that along with therapy, it often is helpful for service members to share their combat experiences with other veterans who have had similar experiences.

Stolz cautioned that the best post-traumatic treatment for some may not work for others.

“Sometimes it takes a while to find the most appropriate treatment for the individual,” he said. “Once in therapy, it’s important for a patient to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with their therapist and understand what has to occur to experience long-term healing. It might get worse before it gets better. Ultimately, they will greatly benefit from facing, expressing and accepting the truth of what they have experienced.”

Stolz noted the department also is looking to develop preventive approaches to PTSD, including pre-deployment training that includes information about what to expect during a deployment.

“It is also best to educate service members on the things that they can do to become more resilient,” he added. “Adopting an accepting attitude towards ourselves and our world makes a significant difference in how resilient we are.”

He pointed to DCoE’s “RESPECT-Mil” program, short for Re-engineering Systems of Primary Care Treatment in the Military.

“The program currently operates in 90 military clinics and screens more than 80,000 primary care visits each month for PTSD and depression,” he said. “Service members diagnosed with psychological health concerns are assessed and treated in primary care with periodic follow-up, and clinics are closely monitored through embedded program evaluation measures. This concept also helps to lessen the stigma that prevents service members from seeking help for mental health concerns.”

Mental health care has advanced across the department over the past 12 years, he said.

“However, the demand to expand our knowledge and methods to effectively prepare, screen, diagnose and treat service members with PTSD will remain long after all of our nation’s heroes have returned home,” Stolz noted.

Derby met and married Carter after the battle that earned him the Medal of Honor. She told reporters during July’s news conference that when she realized what her husband and the rest of the troop had been through, “it was overwhelming.”

“I could never wrap my mind around it -- the severity of what they went through and what they had to do -- because I’ve never been a part of anything so dramatic,” she said. “So it was hard to understand and cope.”

Now that her husband is talking about the experience more openly, she said, it’s heart-wrenching.

“It makes me cry,” she said. “And when he had to go back to Afghanistan [for a second deployment], it just makes me relive everything that he had told me, [knowing] that it could happen again.”

Derby said that fear was hard for her, but she focused on supporting her husband.

“I have to be strong. I have to help him be strong. So that’s what I try to do,” she said.

Carter said he had hoped to move on in the Army to a warrior transition battalion “if they’ll take me,” though the Medal of Honor may change that. He said the work that warrior transition unit staffs do is similar to what he wants to do in the future: “Get rid of the stigma of post-traumatic stress.”

A lot of troops have the condition, he said, and are too ashamed to talk about it or get help.

“Eventually, whether it’s now or in the future, it becomes an issue,” he said. “A warrior transition unit, I thought, was an excellent place for me, just because of my experience, and … the men and women that are there, they would listen to somebody who’s seen it, done it, been there.”

Carter said he’s “extremely nervous” at the thought of visiting the White House to receive his medal.
“I’m looking forward to going there. … Meeting the commander in chief is truly an honor, and yes, I’m very nervous,” he said.

Heroic moment: right place, right time

by Airman 1st Class Zachary Kee
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- It all started with her normal drive home from work. It's a drive she has completed enough times, she could probably do it with her eyes closed.

However, for Tech. Sgt. Mary Camero, a customer support supervisor with the 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron, what happened on this trip home is something she won't forget.

"I was driving home and I saw a driver run a stop sign," said Camero. "The driver who ran the stop sign t-boned the other driver and when I saw this happen and the car roll three times, I thought to myself, 'these people are going to need some serious help.'"

At that moment, Camero made a split-second decision. She stopped her car and ran to the roll-over vehicle that lay on its side.

"I jumped on the side of the car and tried to pry the door open but the force from the other car hitting the door made it impossible," said Camero.

That's when Camero realized she was wearing steel-toe boots and used them to her advantage. She kicked the vehicle's windshield until she finally got through to the Japanese woman who was trapped inside.

While Camero worked to pull her to safety, bystanders watched anxiously as she, with the help of a Japanese man, safely pulled the woman out of the car.

Toshiyuki Adachi, chief of the Misawa Police Station, said "many of the Japanese were hesitant to help right after the accident because of the possibility of a fire starting or making the situation worse."

After they pulled the woman from the car, Camero fell back on her military training and performed Self Aid and Buddy Care. Once she knew the woman was taken care of, she checked on the other driver who only had minor scrapes and no serious injuries.

Camero stayed at the accident scene until responders arrived.

"Because of Camero's actions, the minor injuries from the accident were prevented from becoming major injuries or worse," said Adachi.

Because of her unselfish actions, Camero was given a certificate of appreciation from Adachi on behalf of the Misawa Japanese National Police.

"You, without hesitating, went and rescued the woman and treated both the drivers, and we deeply appreciate your actions," Adachi told Camero after presenting her the certificate.

Camero was thankful for the award, but said she had other reasons for risking her own safety for the lives of others.

"I am the type of person that will help when needed and go right back to work after I'm done," said Camero.

Friends of Camero, TSgts. Vonda Grant and Mari Richardson, along with Staff Sgt. Rowan Coash, were with Camero when she was given the certificate and said that is exactly who she is and all agreed that she is a "selfless" individual.

"I did what I think anyone else would have done," said Camero. "We receive the training to respond to situations like this and I feel like I was just doing my duty."

Airlifters enable jump week

by Airman 1st Class Soo C. Kim
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The C-130 Hercules shakes with turbulence as it hits a thermal updraft. The seats are packed with adrenaline-soaked Soldiers fully equipped in gear and parachutes.

"Ten minutes!" A jumpmaster yells out over the aircraft noise. "Ten minutes!" Soldiers reply as they prepare themselves for the aircraft's drop zone entry. When given the order, they hook into the zip-line and line up ready to take the dive.

Time seems to fly by as the aircraft steadies its route. "Five minutes!" is announced and soon after comes the call, "Two minutes!"

The loadmaster opens the troop door, letting in blinding light that shines on the Soldiers' determined faces. Beyond the door is nothing but a free-fall to earth.

The aircraft enters the drop window and a voice announces over the radio, "Green light, green light! Go, go, go!"

The paratroopers leap out the door, their C-9 parachutes rapidly deploying behind them. Olive drab canopies open above them, and the Soldiers steer into the wind toward the landing zone.

From Aug. 21-23, 2013, Army Special Forces paratroopers participated in joint jump training with aircrews from the 36th Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

"We conduct airborne operations training in order to maintain proficiencies for any possible future combat airborne operations," said Army Staff Sgt. Adrian Colon, 1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group.

During the week, the Soldiers participated in multiple jump sorties aboard three C-130 Hercules assigned to the 374th Airlift Wing.

"We had number of people conducting combat jumps, jumping with their combat equipment and we also had people conducting sustainment jumps, with just their parachute and no equipment," said Army Capt. Robert Shumaker, the Headquarters Support Company commander.

The training began with mission briefings, gear checks and run throughs of multiple jump scenarios on the ground before taking to the air.

"The training was a success," Shumaker said.

According to Army Staff Sgt. Emerson McArthur, lead jumpmaster, this training was a rare opportunity for him and his fellow jumpers.

"Today we had three birds following each other for combat mass attack operations," McArthur said. "Normally we don't get to do that, but the 374th provided the support for us."

Not only was the training beneficial to maintain proficiency for the jumpers, but it was also a step necessary for the jumpers to advance into higher ranks.

"(Today's) jump was required to advance to senior jump master status," McArthur said. "(This type of jump) doesn't happen often and we appreciate the support we received today."

Hagel: Defense Department Has Options for Obama on Syria

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT, Aug. 23, 2013 – Shortly after takeoff on the first leg of his second official trip to the Asia-Pacific region, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel joined a video teleconference with President Barack Obama’s senior national security advisors that focused on the deadly situation in Syria.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, right, briefs reporters Aug. 23, 2013, aboard a military plane on his way to Malaysia, where he will meet with Malaysian leaders, including Prime Minister Najib Razak and Defense Minister Hishammuddin Tun Hussein. Hagel also responded to questions on the crisis in Syria. DOD photo by Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron Hostutler   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

In the latest tragedy in the stricken nation, more than 1,000 men, women and children died in what may have been a chemical weapons attack on its own citizens by the government of President Bashar Assad. The United Nations and others are investigating the attacks.

After leaving Hawaii, the first stop on his trip, Hagel spoke today with reporters who are traveling with him to Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines.

“The president has asked the Defense Department for options. {As] always, the department is prepared, has been prepared, to provide ranges for all contingencies for the president of the United States, and we’ll continue to do that,” Hagel said.

“We’re dealing with a very serious issue,” the secretary added. “We are working with our international partners, the international community [and] the United Nations. We are looking at every option.”

Referring to an interview that Obama gave Chris Cuomo on CNN about Syria, Hagel said the president framed the situation there “exactly right” when he said the United States must be part of the international community in its response to the actions in Syria.

As the president noted, the secretary said, the United States must consider its long-term objectives, its long-term interests, and its objectives for influence and outcomes in deciding upon any response.
“The Defense Department has a responsibility to provide the president with options for all contingencies, and that requires positioning our forces [and] positioning our assets to be able to carry out whatever options the president might choose,” Hagel said.

“On the specific option of military use or force in response to what we will determine at some point here very shortly what did happen, and we’re still assessing that,” he added. “I think the range of military options is always part of the range of options the president has.”

Hagel said he thinks the international community is moving quickly to get the facts and the intelligence right about what happened in Syria so a decision can be made swiftly about how to respond.
“If, in fact, this was a deliberate use and attack by the Syrian government on its own people using chemical weapons, there may be another attack coming,” he said. “A very quick assessment of what happened and whatever appropriate response should be made.”

Tunnel of Oppression' allows GFAFB Airmen to discuss important topics

by Staff Sgt Amanda N. Grabiec
319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/22/2013 - GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE N.D. -- One Airman here recently came up with an idea to put a new spin on sensitivity training.

Airman 1st Class Cory Churchill, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron, attended an event called the "Tunnel of Oppression" at the University of North Dakota recently and wanted to bring the experience back to the base to share with other Airmen.

"I volunteered at UND a couple of months ago to be a tour guide for the Tunnel of Oppression," said Churchill. "Going in, I had no real idea what I was doing or what the info was about. But after I went through the tunnel, I was amazed at how good it was."

The 319th LRS Airmen committee, Rising IV, sponsored the base's Tunnel of Oppression to raise awareness on topics ranging from drug and alcohol abuse to suicide and depression.

Airmen entered a building with various rooms devoted to specific topics. After the briefer shared personal experiences about the topic, an open discussion was conducted allowing everyone to share their feelings or experiences.

"It's important to raise awareness on these topics because it's a way for people to get stuff off their chest that they're holding in," said Airman 1st Class Andrew JeanJacques, also with the 319th LRS. "This may make someone feel more comfortable in their work environment because now someone in their office knows what they're going through."

Senior Master Sgt. Lisa Perez, 319th LRS material management flight superintendent, assisted the committee in hosting the event.

"I'm proud that I was able to guide the Airmen in the right direction for who to talk to and make this event happen." Perez said, "They're the ones that wanted to do this and they had the courage to stand up and share their stories."

Tinker air control units embrace total force integration

by Staff Sgt. Caleb Wanzer
513th Air Control Group public affairs

8/22/2013 - TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Some active-duty Airmen serve for years without working alongside a reservist, but Airmen of the 966th Airborne Air Control Squadron have day-to-day experience.

For Capt. Ashlyn Smith, a navigator with the 966th, 'total force integration' is more than just a hot-button phrase. Smith works as an instructor teaching with Maj. Antwaun Hunter, a reservist with the 970th AACS.

Hunter is temporarily assigned to the 966th to help train Airmen fly the E-3 Sentry aircraft. He transitioned from active duty to the Reserve four years ago.

"Active-duty guys switch out every couple of years to go on to bigger and better things," Hunter said. "We reservists stick around a lot longer and are able to keep more continuity."

"We have approximately seven instructors from the 970th working with us right now," said Lt. Col. John Bartoli, 966th AAC commander. "We're very similar where it counts. They're great partners."

Reserve and active-duty squadrons at Tinker AFB have what Bartoli calls "goal congruence," making a partnership beneficial for both units.

"The relationship does a couple things," said Lt. Col. Steven England, 970th AACS director of operations. "We free up their active-duty instructors to work within their squadrons or deploy by backfilling the [training unit]. It's a win for us because we can send our reservist instructors over there to get that training experience."

The relationship doesn't stop with training. The flying squadron's parent units, the active-duty 552nd Air Control Wing and the Reserve's 513th Air Control Group, were tapped for a joint combined unit inspection in November.

"[The inspection] is a first-time deal for us," England said. "We've never worked with the 552nd before with inspections. This will be something new for both the 552nd and 513th."

England is positive about the future of the associate relationship between the 513th and 552nd.

"We don't know what the fiscal future looks like," he said. "But we hope to continue our relationship with the 966th."