Naval Leaders Discuss Bilateral Logistics Partnership between US, Japan

By Sky M. Laron, Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka Corporate Communications

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Naval logistics leaders from the United States and Japan met Dec. 4 at the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Maritime Staff Office (MSO) in Tokyo for the 7th annual N4-N4 Talks to discuss logistics in action and their bilateral relationship.

Taking care of ships and ensuring parts and supplies are delivered on time to the vessels and Sailors who need them is a priority for naval supply leaders from both the United States and Japan.

Understanding how each service conducts business was an important part of the discussion between the two delegations.

"It is a great honor to host these Navy to Navy talks," said Capt. Tomonori Yokota, director of Logistics Planning and Supplies Division, Logistics Department, MSO. "Understanding each other's logistics systems is invaluable for the U.S. and Japan."

The topics of conversation included everything from port visit processes to the transportation of supplies and equipment, with both sides sharing where they have had successes as well as difficulties in executing their mission.

"With the tyranny of distance in this AOR (area of responsibility) it is absolutely critical that we have the best lines of communication in place to ensure material gets to where it needs to go," said Cmdr. Mark Sheffield, Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Yokosuka, Operations Department director and N4-N4 U.S. presenter. "When you look at NAVSUP's support to operations spanning from the Aleutian Islands to Sydney and Guam to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, understanding what capabilities and material needs to be where and when is vital because ultimately we exist to ensure these ships perform their mission of defending the interests of the United States of America and keeping the sea lanes open."

It is the responsibility of NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka to assist in the smooth movement of ships into and out of the 7th Fleet AOR and to support the forward-deployed naval forces with all of their logistics requirements on a daily basis. Maintaining key alliances with partners and friends is part of that process.

"I think these discussions are important as a means of information sharing and learning from each other," said Capt. Raymond Bichard, NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka commanding officer. "More importantly, these talks strengthen the bond between our two navies and our two countries."

With both teams working toward similar goals of supporting their respective ship customers, the way the work is accomplished is uniquely their own.

"During all of my bilateral engagements, I find it interesting, the differences and similarities between the businesses of our two navies," said Bichard.

The message echoed at the conclusion of this engagement was clear, rest assured, even if the processes used by these logistics leaders can differ, the relationships forged between them is strong and will benefit both organizations well into the future.

As the Western Pacific region's largest U.S. Navy logistics command, just 26 miles due south of Tokyo, the Sailors, Marines, Japanese Master Labor Contract, U.S. Civil Service and contract employees at NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka provide the forward-deployed maritime warfighter with 24/7 operational logistics support integrating an extensive service provider network to deliver fuel, material, mail, and supply chain services across the U.S. Navy's largest geographical AOR.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsup/.

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Deadline Nears for Military Child of Year Nominations

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2014 – A deadline extension means friends, families and mentors still have a few days to nominate children of military families for Operation Homefront’s Military Child of the Year awards program.

The nonprofit organization will accept nominations at http://militarychildoftheyear.org through Dec. 19, officials said.

Resilience, Strength of Character

The Military Child of the Year Award recognizes children who stand out among their peers, Operation Homefront officials said. Ideal candidates demonstrate resilience and strength of character and thrive in the face of the challenges of military life, they added. Each nominee will receive a written commemoration acknowledging his or her nomination.

Family members, teachers, coaches, counselors, clergy, neighbors and friends van nominate military children for the award.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the extraordinary young people who will receive our 2015 award,” said Tim Farrell, chief operating officer for Operation Homefront. “With our nomination period squarely in the holiday season, we know it’s one of the busiest times of the year for military families, teachers and all the other people who might nominate an outstanding military kid.”

Program Expands to National Guard

This award is presented to an outstanding child from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. For the first time in 2015, an outstanding National Guard child will be recognized as well.

The recipients each receive a $10,000 award and a laptop computer, and are flown with a parent or guardian to the nation’s capital for an April 16 awards gala.

Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to military families.

Defense.gov Special Report: Battle of the Bulge - 70th Anniversary

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2014 – Seventy years ago, beginning Dec. 16, 1944, the German army launched its last-ditch effort to thwart allied efforts in a conflict that would be dubbed the "Battle of the Bulge," and would be the Axis powers' final counteroffensive of World War II. The ensuing battle, fought over an 80-mile stretch, from Belgium to Luxembourg, would last close to 40 days and result in an Allied victory. Learn more about the battle in the Defense.gov Special Report: Battle of the Bulge – 70th Anniversary.

Florida aeromedical teams train to bring wounded heroes home

by Tech. Sgt. Peter Dean
927th Wing Public Affairs

12/16/2014 - MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- When most think of a hospital, a spacious high-tech brick and mortar multi story building comes to mind, but for the men and women of the 45th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron here, their "hospital" gives a whole new meaning to the slogan "come fly the friendly skies. "

These highly trained aeromedical professionals have one focus, to bring our wounded warriors home alive. This doesn't come easy, initial and ongoing training is essential to keep these "flying medics" working together as a well-oiled machine. A fully trained aeromedical evacuation technician, not only needs to complete the necessary medical schools but also an array of flight related schools such as Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape.

"Coming in as a flight nurse or a (medical) technician requires much more than drilling once a month and two weeks a year like a typical Reservist" said Capt. Christopher Dorion, flight nurse, 45th AES. "We fly one local mission and one cross country mission a month, so you can pretty much expect on being away from home two weekends a month"

Flying hospitals can be set up in a many different airframes, such as the C-130, a C-17 or a HH-60, but for the 45th AES their recent training mission was aboard a MacDill based KC-135 Stratotanker. The KC-135 is primarily designed as an air-to-air refueling platform, but can be rapidly configured to carry multiple critically injured warfighters.  

"When we need to move a patient, it is essential that we are able to adapt a variety of aircraft quickly and efficiently, lives depend on it," said Senior Master Sgt. Kelly Latham, aeromedical technician, 45th AES.

During the three-day training mission, aeromedical evacuation professionals were put to the test with scenarios ranging from an out-of-control psych patient to an inflight emergency that resulted in a patient going into cardiac arrest.

"Inflight emergencies can be very stressful on patients, they will each react differently, so not only do the techs have to respond to the emergency but they also have to keep close eye on their patient's reactions to it," Dorion said. "They have to be on top of their game"

Scenario after scenario flight nurses and aeromedical technicians stepped up, working together as they were one.

"In each scenario, technicians are expected to react and respond with the appropriate care and answer the "20" questions," said Dorion. "Every year we have to regain our currency and make sure we are still proficient."

The training scenarios start well before takeoff; AES technicians gathered for a comprehensive briefing discussing the care of each patient, their condition, and every drug and piece of equipment that will be needed aboard the aircraft.

"You don't want any surprises when you're at 30,000 feet, you don't have the option to run to the pharmacist for medication, or down the hallway to get a piece of lifesaving equipment," said Master Sgt. Mary Beth Young, aeromedical technician, 45th AES. "If you don't have what you need it could be the difference between life and death."

Today statistics show that injured Soldiers, Seamen, Airmen, and Marines have a 98 percent survival rate once they make it into the skilled hands of an AE team.

"We could and we do run these scenarios back at the squadron, but when you're up here it's a different world," said Latham. "Many more factors come in to play, the noise, cramped space, the motion of the jet and inflight emergencies that we can not simulate back at the office."

And this kind of care in not limited to those who walk upright, military working dogs are extended the same top-notch care.

"I remember one trip we brought back a MWD, he was involved in a blast, but they are treated just like the rest, they are a vital part of the team," said Latham. "Everyone from the flight crew would come back and check on him, his handler ended up adopting him."

The feeling of pride and honor echoes throughout the 45th, and most share the same thoughts.

"I call this the best job I wish I didn't have, knowing that these men and women are out there sacrificing their lives for me, it is an honor, it is a privilege and it is extremely humbling to take care of them," said Young.

"I just returned from a 6 month deployment, very satisfying, bringing our wounded warriors home to their families is so gratifying, there really are no words to describe it," Dorion said.

"A lot of mixed emotions, very very honored to bring these guys back, it can be gut wrenching, but very rewarding," said Latham.

Editor's note: The 45th AES falls under the Air Force Reserve 927th Air Refueling Wing here.

Keesler hosts Reserve officers for development course

by Maj. Marnee A.C. Losurdo
403rd Wing Public Affairs

12/16/2014 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss.  -- The 403rd Wing hosted 40 Reserve officers from across the nation who attended the Air Force Reserve Command's Junior Officer Leadership Development course here Dec. 11-14.

The course is for lieutenants and captains and focuses on leadership, career development, and force management, said Maj. Costau Bastien, JOLD director.

"It's Air Force Reserve (Company Grade Officer) 101," he said, adding that JOLD is the first step in a series of AFRC professional development courses designed to assist young Reserve officers.

Throughout the course the students interacted with and were mentored by senior leaders.  Maj. Gen. Catherine Chilton, mobilization assistant to the Military Deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C.; Brig. Gen. Udo K. "Karl" McGregor, Vice Commander, Joint Enabling Capabilities Command, Norfolk, Virginia; Col. Frank L Amodeo, commander, 403rd Wing, Keesler AFB; Col. Marshall Irvin, commander, 94th Mission Support Group, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia; and, Col. Robert Palmer, director, AFRC Public Affairs, were guest speakers for the course.

"It's an opportunity for them to get mentoring and career guidance on how to be the best and most effective officer they can be," said Bastien.

McGregor said he enjoys mentoring junior officers at these educational courses because Reserve CGOs do not have as many opportunities to interact with senior leaders as their active duty counterparts.

"So that's why I do this, that connection with them," he said, adding that he was impressed by the caliber of officers serving in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve.

"These young officers are educated, well-traveled and articulate," said the general. "They have lots of skills."

To further enhance their future careers, junior officers received one-on-one coaching on how to complete their Reserve Officer Development Plans which assists with career and developmental education vectoring.  Their personnel records were also reviewed with them, said Bastien.

"Their records are a reflection of their accomplishments and contributions to AFRC, which is important when it comes to promotions," said Bastien. "This knowledge also empowers them to be better officers so they can mentor others."

The officers also learned about the 403rd Wing and the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron "Hurricane Hunters," receiving a mission briefing and touring a WC-130J. The course wrapped up with students participating in a teambuilding exercise on an obstacle course ordinarily used by combat controller students stationed at Keesler.

The 919th Special Operations Wing Executive Officer 1st Lt. Bobbie-Jean Johnson was one of 40 students who spent Dec. 13, crawling under wire, scaling walls, jumping over obstacles and balancing on logs.

After finishing the obstacle course, which was her favorite event of the four-day course, she said she found JOLD to be extremely beneficial.

"This is a great opportunity to enhance our leadership skills, learn about career development and network with our peers and senior leaders," she said. "Many of us will experience similar challenges throughout our career so it's great to be able to reach out to someone and get advice or suggestions on how they handled a situation or problem and then put that knowledge into practice."

The chance to interact with and learn from his peers' experiences was also a highlight for 403rd Maintenance Group Executive Officer 1st Lt. Brandon Dutton.

"For many junior officers, this is the first time since Officer Training School to see what our peers, especially in other wings, have done with their time in the Reserve," he said. "I appreciated the opportunity to meet other junior officers from around the country and learn what they do in their jobs and how they affect the Air Force. It was an eye opening experience that will make me better in my job."

For more information on the PDC, visit the center's site on the Air Force Portal.

Dobbins reservists support Wreaths Across America at Georgia National Cemetery

by Senior Airman Daniel Phelps
94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

12/16/2014 - CANTON, Ga. -- Thousands attended the Wreaths Across America event at Georgia National Cemetery here Dec. 13 to honor American veterans.

Georgia National Cemetery is the second national cemetery in Georgia and the 123rd in the national cemetery system. A private citizen donated the 775-acre site to the National Cemetery Administration in 2001. At maximum capacity, 330 acres of the site will be developed for burials; the remainder of the site is too steep to be used for interments.

"This is truly a special tradition," said Rep. Tom Price (R-GA) at the event. "Americans come together to remember and pay their respects to America's heroes.e remember those who fought and paid the ultimate scrifice. Men can not be free with out sacrifice."

Once all were laid, the colors were presented in a formal ceremony along withe ceremonial wreaths for each branch of the Armed Forces along with Prisoners of War/Missing in Action.

Price spoke at the cermony expressing his thanks to all who have served in the military.

"Those who have served  are owed a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid," Price said.

Wreaths Across America is held at National Cemeteries across the country to honor and pay tribute to America's veterans.

"We want to let all of veterans know: you are not forgotten," said guest speaker and author Alvin Townley.

Homestead has best fitness, food programs in command

482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/16/2014 - HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- The 482nd Force Support Squadron was selected as Air Force Reserve Command's best fitness and food programs of the year.

As the Fitness and Sports Program of the Year, the Sam Johnson Fitness Center received a $4.5 million renovation and was previously awarded the Air Force Reserve Command's Fitness Center of the Year from 2010-2013.

Renovations to the 5-star fitness center included a 1,200 square-foot expansion, and visitors can now enjoy a wider range of amenities. The center also features spa-like amenities such as steam rooms, a masseuse, and a lounge area.

The facility is equipped with yoga and Pilates gear, two racket ball courts, a basketball court, a weight room with traditional free weights, and a cardio workout room.

Offering enhanced fitness programs, the fitness center supported 11 classes attended by more than 300 members of Team Homestead. Additionally, the staff worked to expand the intramural/extramural sports program to include more than 40 teams.

The FSS staff put together a first-ever Miami Marlins verses Team Homestead softball game during the Airman Appreciation Day events held Feb. 13. An all-star basketball game with University of Miami and announcer Don Jackson was also a highlight for the award-winning fitness center.

AFRC Food Operations Program of the Year

As the best Food Operations Program of the Year for AFRC, members of the 482nd FSS worked to support Team Homestead through events, luncheons and expanded service at the Blazin' Beans coffee shop.

Taking just five days to transition from their old facility, the staff opened the new $8 million Community Activity Center, troop feeding facility and lounge. Through extraordinary efforts, the staff supported more than 100 events attended by more than 8,000 people.

Expanded food services offered at the Blazin' Beans Coffee Shop increased their revenue by $42,300 and the staff supported $93,000 in catering services.

The staff developed a winning chili recipe, being crowned champs of the 2014 City of Homestead Chili Cook-Off Competition.

Increasing their revenue by 4.4 percent, the squadron outpaced AFRC's goal of 2.6 percent.

The award winning programs will go on to compete at the next level, and will continue to provide Team Homestead with extraordinary service.

US, UK Navies Sign Framework for Future Cooperation

From the Navy Chief of Information Office

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Leaders of the U.S. and British navies agreed on a shared vision for closer cooperation Dec. 11, the culmination of a yearlong effort that will build on a long-standing maritime partnership over the next 15 years.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert and his counterpart in the United Kingdom, First Sea Lord Sir George Zambellas, signed a combined strategic narrative that articulates a shared vision for deeper cooperation between the U.S. Navy (USN) and the Royal Navy (RN).

"The United States and the United Kingdom rely on our navies to project power in critical regions and to protect the freedom of navigation that underpins the global economy," said Greenert.

The narrative, titled "Combined Seapower: A Shared Vision for Royal Navy-United States Navy Cooperation," is the culmination of a yearlong effort by a RN-USN study group formed in September 2013 to identify opportunities to enhance ties.

"The narrative provides a strategic vision to sustain and enhance cooperation between our two navies so that we can provide forward presence and be where it matters, when it matters," Greenert said.

The U.S. and U.K. navies share a common naval heritage and legacy of collaboration since the first half of the 19th century. More recently, a combined RN-USN destroyer squadron staff completed a nine-month deployment to the U.S. 6th and 5th Fleet areas of responsibility in April. Royal Navy personnel were part of a staff that served aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and supported the sea combat commander for the strike group.

RN sailors also train aboard USN aircraft carriers as the Royal Navy constructs aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, the lead ship of her class. The United Kingdom currently has 15 pilots training in U.S. Navy units. The two navies also work closely on countering piracy, supporting disaster relief efforts, and fighting terrorism globally.

The narrative builds on these collaborative efforts and includes the following five features that will characterize the RN-USN partnership going forward: interoperability and mutual technology investment; combined aircraft carrier operations; force and capability planning; officer exchanges; and collaborative force management.

"This combined narrative represents a new and exciting opportunity for our two nations to build on shared national interests through the value of credible seapower," said Zambellas. "It is a powerful statement of our shared maritime ambition, it cements our maritime leadership, and it delivers an even deeper partnership between our navies, to the mutual strategic and operational advantage of both the U.K. and U.S."

The narrative represents a strong commitment by the U.S. Navy and the Royal Navy to work together to achieve shared economic and security interests in the 21st century. This cooperation will ensure that the U.S. and the UK remain leaders in the increasingly important maritime domain.