Maintenance group returns T-33 Shooting Star to static 'flight' status

by Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett
JBER Public Affairs

2/15/2013 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Every day the sun rises over JBER. The timing of when it rises, whether it gets filtered through clouds, how long it lasts, and when it goes down again are all subject to time of the year and weather conditions in Alaska. But when it does light up the sky, over time it affects what it touches. For humans, it provides vitamin D. For plants, it provides a source of food.

For aircraft, such as the planes on display in Heritage Park, it slowly causes paint to fade, while rain and other factors play at corrosion and general wear on the static metal birds.

Aircraft maintainers from the 3rd Maintenance Squadron work hard maintaining the historical displays.

"The Airmen are doing a superb job on this jet," said Marc Horn, 3rd Maintenance Squadron sheet metal painter and worker. "It's just a testament to the quality of work that they do. We're really proud of it."

The maintenance crews do the refurbishing jobs when they have down time, so the projects don't impact the mission.

The Lockheed T-33A Shooting Star is the first of the historic symbols to get refurbished since it arrived at the park in June of 1999.

"We want to keep them for a long time and we don't want to wait until the last minute when there're a lot of problems, so we're bringing them in one at a time right now," he said. "We're doing what they need, so they are well preserved."

The aircraft were added to the park at different times, so the condition of each will vary, he said.

Inspectors look over the planes annually searching for corrosion or paint fading.
"We make any other repairs with holes or anything like that, that we may find, and get it structurally sound," he said. "Then we actually sand it right down to the metal and repaint the entire aircraft."

The sanding takes the old paint completely off, as well as the local markings, symbols and stencils. The aircraft is then wiped clean before a primer is applied.

The colors, symbols and stencils are all reapplied in coats. Finally, a clear coat is used as additional protection.

"It'll stay looking real nice for a long time," he said.

The Airmen working to preserve the T-33 said they understood the significance behind their efforts.

"To me, it means quite a lot because these are part of our past," said Airman 1st Class Justin Howard, 3rd Maintenance Squadron structural aircraft journeyman.

"It kind of makes it a little more special to you because we've flown these, they were our jets. These jets are part of our heritage, they are very important to us because they used to fly them. They trained, some of them fought in combat, so it's good to restore them to their former glory."

Alaskan Air Command's units, including the 5021st Tactical Operations Squadron, flew the T-33A. Air Force Col. William Povilus, 21st Tactical Fighter Wing commander, requested the plane be retained in Alaska.

It was then added to the Air Force Museum inventory in 1987.

Povilus originally had it placed in JBER's Paxton Memorial Park, near the Government Hill gate, named after Air Force Col. Pat Paxton, a former commander of the 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing killed in an F-15 crash in 1985.

The 3rd Equipment Maintenance Squadron repaired and refurbished it back to its arctic markings of the 1970s and mounted it in Heritage Park.

The T-33 made its first flight in 1948.

Production continued until 1959 with 5,691 T-33s built.

In addition to its use as a training aircraft, the T-33 has been used for such tasks as drone director and target towing, and in some countries even as a combat aircraft.
The RT-33A, a reconnaissance version made primarily for use by foreign countries, had a camera installed in the nose and additional equipment in the rear cockpit.

The T-33 is designed with two .50-caliber machine guns in the nose. It has a maximum speed of 525 miles per hour, and a maximum cruise speed of 455 miles per hour.

It is one of the world's best-known aircraft, having served with the air forces of more than 20 different nations over the course of several decades. It is a proud feature of Heritage Park, Horn said.

"We have a lot of visitors that come on base every year," the painter and operator said.
"One of the highlights of the base is going to Heritage Park and seeing jets there were actually in operation here at one point and there are actually some people that come who knew and flew these jets," Horn said.

"The jets are 40 to 60 years old and there are a lot of people that are veterans from that era who really enjoy seeing them. It means a lot."

Wolf Pack tested during Beverly Bulldog 13-2

by Capt. Sheila N. Johnston
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

2/15/2013 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!

Beverly Bulldog 13-2 tested the abilities of more than 2,600 Wolf Pack members--Airmen and Soldiers, from U.S. and Republic of Korea forces--to respond to casualties and threats during a weeklong exercise, Feb. 11-15, 2013.

Scenarios including an aircraft crash, facility fires and contamination, flying and maintaining a rapid turnover of F-16 Fighting Falcons, and their general ability to survive and operate in a complex wartime environment were some of the challenges members faced.

"We cannot predict exact situations we might be called to respond to at the Wolf Pack," said Col. John W. Pearse, 8th Fighter Wing commander. "That's why we exercise a variety of scenarios that encompass defending the base and accepting follow-on-forces while knowing we may be called to take the fight north at a moment's notice."

During these exercises, base members rely on a variety of communication avenues to receive and transmit information. Maj. Andy Grab, 8th Comptroller Squadron commander, emphasized the importance of unit control centers to track alarm conditions and disseminate information to Airmen from leadership and emergency responders while also providing information on conditions and Airmen around base back to leaders.

"UCCs (Unit control centers) are integral to the success of Wolf Pack exercises as they are the command and control conduit for the wing," said Grab. "Their swift response and coordination with the EOC (emergency operation center) ensures alert notifications are communicated across the base and emergency procedures are immediately put into action."

"This vital flow of information ensures wing leadership has visibility on the entire base. Should we have to fight tonight, our UCC's validate our wing's capability to (complete our mission)."

While unit control centers are important, that is not the only way members receive information. American Forces Network-Korea broadcasts radio transmissions which are repeated on closed-circuit television pumped throughout buildings and dorms, and the 8th Fighter Wing's command post makes giant-voice announcements and sends email notifications to cover other communication lines.

Kunsan's 'Cyber Warriors' play a big role in a variety of communication efforts.
"We maintain and monitor all communication media across the base enabling communication and C2 (command and control) for the 8th FW," said Maj. Ray Champion, 8th Communications Squadron commander. He added these systems are not just a priority during exercise, but also for daily operations.

A central purpose of these exercises is to test the 8th Fighter Wing's ability to respond to wartime scenarios. This includes all facets of the base mission, which is to: 'Defend the base, accept follow-on forces,' and when all else fails, 'take the fight north .' The base mission is part of the greater 7th Air Forces mission to 'Deter. Defend. Defeat.'

Part of defending the base includes a host of force-protection initiatives accomplished around the clock.

"With the amount of training security forces receives prior to these exercises, we are prepared to deal with any scenario," said Tech. Sergeant Venessa Brown, 8th Security Forces Squadron. "Regardless of the time, terrain and weather, the defenders at Kunsan are always prepared to protect the pack."

Another important element in defending the base is keeping them healthy or treating any injuries. The 8th Medical Group staff takes care of exercise scenarios as well as any illness or injury that might occur to members while participating in exercise events.

"The men and women of the 8th Medical Group have a critical role in preparing the Airmen of the Wolf Pack to fight tonight," said Col. Jill Scheckel, 8th Medical Group commander. "Our focus is on sustaining and enhancing performance of the human weapon system. Readiness underlies everything we do." She added the Airmen did a great job in responding to mass casualty injuries and demonstrating their ability to survive and operate in a simulated wartime environment.

Furthermore, the logistical elements of both exercising and maintaining real-world capabilities simultaneously would not be possible without Airmen from the 8th Civil Engineer Squadron, the 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron, and the 8th Force Support Squadron.

"The Red Devils--military and mission-essential civilian personnel--provided critical firefighting, emergency management, explosive-ordinance disposal, shelter management, airfield management repair, and expedient maintenance and repair required to keep the base infrastructure and facilities operational," said Lt. Col. Deron Frailie, 8th CES commander. "The team effort required to accomplish all these tasks, while Herculean, could not have been accomplished without the essential augmentees from both the 8th MDG and 8th CS. It truly is a team Wolf Pack effort to support taking the fight north."

Senior Master Sgt. Travis Goodman, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron said logistics Airmen provide a variety of support prior to and during exercise conditions.

"As Airmen arrive at Kunsan, we issue their IPE (individual protective equipment) gear. That's priority one for exercising and responding if there is a chemical attack threat." He added LRS Airmen also maintain a fleet of vehicles and transport Wolf Pack members during exercise conditions and daily operations; and they provide vital support to the Wolf Pack through movement of personnel and cargo on to and off of the peninsula.

"During exercises, we practice our ability to track and receive Airmen. We also exercise receiving supplies of all kinds to support the on-going Wolf Pack mission," Goodman said.

Responsible for maintaining base support while also exercising the Wolf Pack's ability to 'accept follow-on forces,' the 8th Force Support Squadron deals with everything from issuing Meals Ready to Eat to mortuary and casualty affairs.

"Force support Airmen are multi-faceted to do casualty reports, search for and possibly process human remains and still make sure everyone is accounted for and has a place to sleep," said Maj. Karalyne Lowery, 8th Force Support Squadron. "I am proud of how the FSS Airmen accomplished their jobs despite the variety of new and persistent scenarios this exercise."

Col. James Sturgeon, 8th Operations Group commander, said that ultimately, if the 8th Fighter Wing is called to 'take the fight north,' the 8th Maintenance Group and the 8th Operations Group exercise their ability to generate sorties, maintain a rigorous aircraft maintenance schedule, and destroy priority targets during exercises of this nature. The 8th OG in coordination with the 8th MXG generated and flew more than 160 sorties in support of Beverly Bulldog 13-2.

While Airmen in the 8th MXG generate aircraft routinely, their ability is scrutinized during exercises of this kind where aircraft are needed at a rapid rate.

"Our pilots and maintainers continue to impress me with their teamwork and unity of effort in one of the most strenuous conditions possible," said Col. Ray Lindsay, 8th MXG commander. "Our continued focus and team work only guarantees the 8th FW's ability to wreak havoc upon our adversaries."

Colonel Pearse expressed his pride in leading the Wolf Pack and said the general sense of urgency and ability of Kunsan Airmen to maintain their readiness is not just important, but essential.

"The Wolf Pack is here to deter enemy aggression and to help defend the Korean peninsula alongside our Republic of Korea partners," said Pearse. "We continue to routinely exercise our abilities and maintain our readiness to fight tonight."

PACAF command chief addresses Andersen Airmen

by Senior Airman Robert Hicks
36th Wing Public Affairs

2/15/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  -- The Pacific Air Forces command chief spoke to Airmen during an enlisted call here Feb. 12.

During the enlisted call, PACAF Command Chief Master Sgt. Steve McDonald discussed several topics, beginning with the Air Force's Comprehensive Airman Fitness initiative, which seeks to give Airmen the skills they need to overcome adverse or traumatic events in their lives. CAF consists of four main pillars: mental, physical, social and spiritual fitness.

Chief McDonald explained how the CAF program has master resiliency skills in place that serve as tools service members can use on a daily basis to help maintain resiliency.

The PACAF command chief moved on to address the suicide rate in the Air Force and the initiatives in place for suicide prevention, as well as securing more family time for Airmen.

Chief McDonald identified the severity of the issue of suicide in the Air Force and explained ways in which the military has tried to prevent suicide and provide help to service members throughout his 27-year career.

"No one knows what their darkest hour in life looks like. I know I don't, but sometimes people face this hour, and whatever it may be, you have to be prepared for it," he said. "Everyone must know their purpose and reason to press on before that darkest hour arises."

The chief also stressed the importance of service members and their families to the military and how senior leadership works to find ways for Airmen to spend more time at home with their loved ones.

"With every new addition that comes up, whether it's adding more training or changing the way we do things, senior leaders in today's force ask, 'What is this going to do with Airmen's time? How much time are they going to be losing with their families and how much extra time will they be spending at work?'"

In his parting words to Team Andersen, Chief McDonald talked about how impressed he was with the job the Airmen are doing within the Pacific area of responsibility.

Chief McDonald also provided an opportunity for Airmen to ask questions and have a discussion about the issues that are important to them.

"I'm always impressed by the Airmen," he said as he concluded his discussion with the Airmen. "The job you're doing here, with the strategic importance at Andersen and all the exercises and real-world missions you support, shows it's pretty important that you're here."

51st SFS finish BB 13-02 strong

by Staff Sgt. Sara Csurilla
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

2/18/2013 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- "We exist to defend the base--in armistice and in war," said Master Sgt. Ernest Calbillo, 51st Security Force Air Base Defense operations and intelligence NCO in charge.

Airmen from the 51st SFS demonstrated their ability to do this during the last counter surveillance scenario, or ground attack, during operation readiness exercise Beverly Bulldog 13-02 at Osan Feb. 15, 2013.

With nearly 20 people acting as opposing forces trying to sneak up and attack the 51st Fighter Wing's headquarters building, security forces Airmen fought them off, one simulated grenade at a time.

"Exercises provide security forces with the ability to apply their air base defense training," Calbillo said. "It lets us practice our tactics and procedures, and hone troop leading skills. In a real-world scenario, we may not receive any significant warning and must be ready at all times. We must do everything; physically, mentally, and emotionally to ready ourselves today for the worst case."

The mission of the 51 SFS is to maintain a secure environment from which to generate combat power, and exercise like BB 13-02 helps condition the Airmen of the 51st SFS for anything that might come their way.

"They work long hours in harsh conditions, 24 hours, seven days a week, yet remain highly motivated," Calbillo said. "This is who we are and what we do. We are the Air Force's shield. We willingly stand between the enemy and our base population so others can generate combat power."

Air Force releases findings on Misawa F-16 mishap

by Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

2/19/2013 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  -- Headquarters Pacific Air Forces today released the results of its investigation into the July 22 F-16C aircraft crash in the Pacific Ocean approximately 750 miles northeast of Misawa Air Base, Japan.

The Accident Investigation Board, convened by PACAF, found by clear and convincing evidence that the mishap was an uncommanded closure of the main fuel shutoff valve.

According to the AIB report, the F-16C Fighting Falcon experienced a loss of thrust from the engine that the aircraft's pilot could not restore. The pilot safely ejected from the aircraft and was recovered without injury. The aircraft crashed into the Pacific Ocean and was destroyed. No other property damage or injuries to military personnel or civilians resulted from the mishap.

The aircraft was assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa Air Base, Japan. The mishap occurred en route from Misawa AB, to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska to participate in exercise RED FLAG-Alaska.

Colonel Terry Scott served as the Accident Investigation Board president. Colonel Scott is the Vice Commander, 15th Wing, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Colonel Scott is a command pilot with more than 3,900 flight hours, to include the F-15 and the F-22.

Air Force units help recover diverted Navy aircraft on Rota

by Airman 1st Class Marianique Santos
36th Wing Public Affairs

2/15/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  -- Team Andersen Airmen, along with Airmen from units in support of Cope North 13, transported an R-11 refueling truck on a C-130 Hercules aircraft from here to Rota Island, Feb. 13, to recover a Navy F/A-18 Hornet that diverted there due to weather a day prior.

With the combined effort of Airmen from the 374th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and 36th Airlift Squadron, temporarily assigned here from Yokota Air Base, Japan, and the 36th Logistics Readiness Squadron and 734th Air Mobility Squadron, the refueling truck was transported to Rota and successfully refueled the diverted F/A-18 aircraft that was also here in support of Cope North.

The truck transport was necessary due to the absence of refueling facilities on Rota that can accommodate fighter aircraft. As a result of the weather conditions during the mission, the F/A-18 pilots did not have the option of diverting in a more equipped location.

"There is not a drop of jet fuel on Rota," said Senior Master Sgt. Kasey Saunders, 36th LRS NCO in charge of fuels distribution. "There were civilian aircraft, but those don't run on the same fuel as our aircraft, and the only way to refuel an F/A-18 is with a refueling truck."

Maj. Nicole Fuller, 36th LRS commander, said this is the first time the 36th LRS provided this type of refueling support. A lot of coordination and adjustments had to be made in order to make the transport happen.

"Emergency situations like these don't happen very often," said Major Fuller. "The first truck we had was too big and heavy. Instead of putting it in a larger aircraft, we got a smaller refueling truck and removed nonessential parts to make sure it was within the allowable cabin load.

"Once we got the truck there, the plan was to offload the truck from the C-130, transfer fuel from the C-130 to the truck," she added. "We then uploaded fuel from the truck into the F/A-18, reload the truck back into the C-130 which then returned to Andersen."

The truck had to be transported empty for weight and safety purposes. The C-130 then had to make another trip in order to transport additional equipment that had to be flown to Rota in order to transfer fuel from the C-130 to the refueling truck.

"In more convenient situations, aircraft divert to airfields with more facilities, however, that is not always the case," said Major Fuller. "If we do have to do it again, from this experience, we'll be better and more prepared in supporting such emergencies in the future."

With the number of units involved in the successful recovery of the F/A-18, the operation was a testament to the effective interoperability between bases, branches of service and regional partners within the Asia-Pacific.

Global Strike's Command Chief Visits Whiteman

by A1C Lacie Carmody
509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

2/19/2013 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Chief Master Sgt. Brian Hornback, Air Force Global Strike's command chief visited Team Whiteman Feb. 8-9, bringing with him a vision for the future of Airmen stationed not only at Whiteman, but across the Air Force.

Hornback is no stranger to the base, having been previously stationed here twice.

"Visiting Whiteman Air Force Base is like coming home, and it feels like the 509th Bomb Wing has wrapped itself back around my shoulders," he said.

Hornback toured the base, spending time with individuals across the installation and addressing the evolution of the Air Force.

He said he believes today's Airmen are more digitally linked and globally aware than former generations. In his view, what is important now is bridging the gap between senior leadership and junior Airmen.

This will not be accomplished by "fixing" the way junior enlisted think, but understanding and offering guidance instead, he said.

Hornback also stressed the importance of spending more time discussing the problems of the present and tackling issues in the future, while spending less time in front of computers or at a desk.

"There are some basic foundations to help lay," Hornback said. "I can't tell you that you use my path because that only worked for me 28 years ago. That path is completely different now; it's a different Air Force.

"NCOs, Staff Sgt. through Chief Master Sgt., need to spend more time with their Airmen to coach, lead and mentor them and actually maybe teach leadership traits that will help them through their Air Force Career and then maybe get out of their way. They're the future of the Air Force."

He also discussed how to break through the barriers regarding forums and how to start open discussions in order to build stronger bonds in the workplace.

"We say we want an open forum, but do we really want an open forum? Or do we want open dialogue when a forum is open? I'm not going to laugh at your questions. They may be silly but I'm not going to laugh at them. If you want to talk we'll talk," he said.

Finally, Hornback articulated his goals for the Airmen of Global Strike, highlighting the importance of both military and off-duty education.

He said he wishes to develop the Airmen throughout the command by emphasizing the superior education and training of AFGSC personnel, and the resources and equipment that make the mission work. He wants Airmen to be excited about their jobs, but also to understand the importance of their roles and responsibilities in the nuclear enterprise.

Finally, Hornback stressed the necessity of remaining positive when stationed at a Global Strike base.

"There are worse places to be," he said, "but every place you go, there you are. So what are you going to do to make it better? You control your motivation, your morale, your discipline and yourself."

New community center opens at JB San Antonio-Lackland

by Minnie Jones
433rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

2/15/2013 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND  -- Selrico Services, Inc. invited members of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland to a tour and taste event at a brand new community center and dining facility, Feb. 13.

The $175,000 renovated structure is two facilities in one -  a community center named the "Gott Commons Community Center" and the "Heroes" restaurant, or "Heroes at the Gott Commons." Both facilities are located in the old Rodney Gott Dining facility on Security Hill.

The Gott Dining Facility closed Feb. 1, 2012. According to the Department of Defense, over the last decade the Air Force has closed approximately 49 dining facilities, in some cases due to under use. The Gott Dining facility fell prey to Air Force closures, thus leaving a void on Security Hill and to the Guard and Reserve components located on the other side of the hill.

Selrico Services, Inc. is a global, full-service contractor, offering services that range from food services, to providing permanent and temporary facility solutions and operations, base operating support services, and contingency/life support solutions.

The 8,200 square-foot facility provides servicemembers and civilians assigned on the "Hill" and to the Air Force Reserve and the Texas Air National Guard with a wide variety of food and services all in one place without traveling to Lackland proper. The facility accomdate 185 people.

"The Force Support Squadron is proud to bring leisure and dining opportunity to JBSA-Lackland," said Debbie Milner, 802nd Force Support Squadron marketing director. "Customers will find a beautifully renovated facility featuring stacked stone walls, granite counter tops, and a water feature. It's a great place to unwind from the hectic pace of the day."

Security Hill is home to numerous units, such as Air Force Space Command's 24th Air Force and the 67th Network Warfare Wing and Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency.

The "Heroes at the Gott" will offer breakfast and lunch, with a choice of healthy food options; grilled foods, Mexican and Italian cuisine, and a carving station.

Other amenities include, free Wi-Fi, a sports bar and "The Grind," a coffee and grab-and-go bar that offers Starbuck products. The resource area include a reading area, where people can swap magazines and books, information on FSS leisure activities, three computers with a direct link to JBSAtravel.com and a meeting space that can be reserved during breakfast and lunch hours.

It will also give servicemembers living in the dorms a place to eat and go after work.

"The main thing is that this is a partnership between us (Selrico Services, Inc.) and the Air Force project," said Rick Aleman, President, Selrico Services, Inc. "What we were trying to do here is to give Airmen a different feel, a different atmosphere, so they can relax here - it's all about having fun and relaxing."

Panetta announces Distinguished Warfare Medal

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

2/15/2013 - WASHINGTON -- Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has approved a new medal designed to recognize service members directly affecting combat operations who may not even be on the same continent as the action.

The Distinguished Warfare Medal recognizes the changing face of warfare. In the past, few, if any, service members not actually in a combat zone directly affected combat operations.

These new capabilities have given American service members the ability to engage the enemy and change the course of battle, even from afar, Panetta said at a Pentagon news conference today.

"I've always felt -- having seen the great work that they do, day in and day out -- that those who performed in an outstanding manner should be recognized. Unfortunately, medals that they otherwise might be eligible for simply did not recognize that kind of contribution."

Now, the Defense Department does.

"The medal provides distinct, departmentwide recognition for the extraordinary achievements that directly impact on combat operations, but that do not involve acts of valor or physical risk that combat entails," Panetta said.

Technological advancements have dramatically changed how the American military conducts and supports warfighters. Unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned underwater vehicles, missile defense technology and cyber capabilities all affect combat operations while the operators may not be anywhere near the combat zone. The new medal recognizes the contributions of these service members.

It will not be awarded for acts of battlefield valor, officials said. It will be awarded in the name of the secretary of defense to members of the military whose extraordinary achievements directly impacted combat operations, and cannot be used as an end-of-tour award.

"This new medal recognizes the changing character of warfare and those who make extraordinary contributions to it," said Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. "The criteria for this award will be highly selective and reflect high standards."

The most immediate example is the work of an unmanned aerial vehicle operator who could be operating a system over Afghanistan while based at Creech Air Force Base, Nev. The unmanned aerial vehicle would directly affect operations on the ground. Another example is that of a soldier at Fort Meade, Md., who detects and thwarts a cyberattack on a DOD computer system.

The medal could be used to recognize both these exceptional acts, officials said.

In the order of precedence, the Distinguished Warfare Medal will be below the Distinguished Flying Cross, and will be limited to achievements that are truly extraordinary. "The member's actions must have resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from comrades or from other persons in similar situations," a DOD official said.

The military department secretary must approve each award, and it may not be presented for valorous actions. "This limitation was specifically included to keep the Distinguished Warfare Medal from detracting from existing valor decorations, such as the Medal of Honor, Service Crosses and Silver Star Medal," the official said.

Award criteria will be incorporated into the next revision of DOD Manual 1348.33-V3, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards, Volume 3.

First African-American Medal of Honor Recipient Safeguarded Flag

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2013 – The U.S. flag has been a symbol of American courage and patriotism for more than 200 years, and those who serve in the military hold it in high reverence.
So it’s no surprise that Army Sgt. William H. Carney risked his life in 1863 to safeguard the symbol of American pride and inspiration, earning the distinction of being the first African-American to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Carney, the son of slaves, was born in Norfolk, Va., on Feb. 29, 1840. As a young man, he was ambitious and eager to learn, and excelled in academics despite laws and restrictions banning African-Americans from learning to read and write.

After his parents’ slave owner died, the Carneys were granted their freedom. Carney’s father moved further north, searching for a suitable area to settle down. After stops in Pennsylvania and New York, the elder Carney took his family to New Bedford, Mass.

Carney spent the remainder of his adolescence in New Bedford, working odd jobs and pursuing his interests in the church. He attended services at the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and Union Baptist Church, and was on the precipice of making ministry his life’s work when the Civil War began. Carney decided he could better serve God by serving in the military to help free the oppressed.

On March 4, 1863, Carney, along with 40 other African-Americans from New Bedford, joined Company C, 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry Regiment, to fight in the Civil War.
According to state records, the regiment was the first African-American Army unit to be raised in the northern states, and its fighting force included two of famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass’ sons.

After only three months of training in Readville, Mass., they were shipped to the main area of fighting in South Carolina, where they saw action at Hilton Head, St. Simon’s Island, Darien, James Island and Fort Wagner.

It was at Fort Wagner that Carney’s heroic actions earned him the nation’s highest military honor.
On July 18, 1863, 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry Regiment soldiers led the charge on Fort Wagner. During the battle, the color guard, John Wall, was struck by a fatal bullet. He staggered and was about to drop the flag when Carney saw him.

Carney seized the flag, and held it high despite fierce fighting, inspiring the other soldiers. He was wounded twice -- in his leg and right arm -- and bled heavily. Although the Army sergeant could hardly crawl, he clutched the flag until he finally reached the walls of Fort Wagner. He planted “Old Glory” in the sand and held it tightly until he was rescued, nearly lifeless from blood loss.

According to accounts, Carney still refused to give up the flag to his rescuers, but grasped it even tighter. He crawled on one knee, assisted by his fellow soldiers, until he reached the Union temporary barracks, ensuring the flag never once touched the ground.

For his bravery, on May 23, 1900, Carney was awarded the Medal of Honor, becoming the first African-American to receive the medal.

His citation reads: “When the color sergeant was shot down, this soldier grasped the flag, led the way to the parapet, and planted the colors thereon. When the troops fell back, he brought off the flag, under a fierce fire in which he was twice severely wounded.”

Equipment scheduled to arrive for joint U.S.-Belizean exercise

by Capt. Justin Brockhoff
12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Public Affairs

2/19/2013 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AFB, Ariz. -- Construction equipment and materials for a joint U.S.-Belizean exercise is scheduled to begin arriving into ports in Belize in the spring for New Horizons 2013, a major event that will test U.S. military members' ability to deploy while building partnerships with host nation medical and civil engineering experts.

The exercise itself, overseen by U.S. Southern Command and planned by Air Forces Southern, is slated to last approximately 90 days with several construction projects to add new classrooms and buildings to existing schools with manpower provided by both U.S. and Belizean military engineers.

In addition, combined U.S. and Belizean medical teams will conduct multiple medical events to provide medical services to Belizeans.

Preparations have been going on for months to kickoff construction and medical events in the spring, according to planners. The construction equipment and materials scheduled to arrive will be received, stored and secured by the Belize Defence Force who will also be participating in the exercise.

"Deploying the equipment and supplies that exercise participants need is a major part of the New Horizons," said Capt. Richard Hallon, one the exercise's staff planners. "We've got to pack and prep the right equipment and materials in the U.S., work with U.S. Transportation Command to have those items shipped to the partner nation participating in the exercise, and coordinate for the storage and security of those supplies until the exercise participants arrive."

New Horizons dates back to the 1980s and is conducted in a Central American, South American or Caribbean partner-nation at the government's request. Once the location is determined, the host-nation government assembles and prioritizes a list of proposed medical and construction projects, which is balanced against the exercise's training objectives to ensure that participants get the maximum training benefit. From there, planning for the deployment and all of the things that go with it begins.

"New Horizons provides U.S. service members with training that they can't get at home," added Mr. Chris Donovan, the lead exercise planner for his sixth New Horizons. "This process is all about being able to plan and carry out a deployment from start to finish. There are some experiences that simply can't be gained by talking through the process. This exercise provides our service members with an opportunity to gain experience that enables them to be ready to answer the call when and where needed for a real world humanitarian need or crisis-type situation."

The other key benefit U.S. service members receive from New Horizons is the opportunity to learn from and build partnerships with the exercise participants from the host nation's government and military forces, he added.

Over the past 20 years, U.S. Southern Command has regularly partnered with the Belize Defence Force as well as the Ministries of Health and Education to conduct combined exercises that make both sides more prepared to respond to humanitarian relief scenarios.

Last year's iteration of New Horizons provided humanitarian and civic assistance through six projects in the Chincha, Pisco, and Independencia regions of Peru hit hard by a devastating earthquake in 2007. Projects included the construction of a multi-complex community center and clinic, as well as free medical care to an estimated more than 22,500 people.

Langley hosts Special Olympics

by Airman 1st Class Austin Harvill
633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

2/19/2013 - LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va.  -- One second left in the game, he lined up the shot and launched the ball through the air. The buzzer sounded, followed by the swish of success.

The crowd cheered wildly, even though the shot didn't win the game for his team, while his opponents gave him high-fives and congratulated him in the spirit of sportsmanship.

Moments like these were plentiful Feb. 9 at Langley Air Force Base, Va., where the 2013 Area 22 Special Olympics were held.

"All of the kids and adults were so happy just to compete," said Tech. Sgt. Jessica Covington, 633rd Force Support Squadron fitness assessment cell noncommissioned officer in charge. "You appreciate their effort."

According to their official website, the Special Olympics is an organization dedicated to giving special-needs individuals an opportunity to compete in a wide-range of sporting events. In support of Special Olympics, Langley hosted basketball games for the local chapter. Special-needs children and adults came together with their caretakers and coaches to compete in a day-long tournament.

"When the athletes get on the court, sometimes you forget they even have a disability," Covington said. "They are just like us--people who want to compete and have a good time."

For Covington, this event was not her first experience working with Special Olympics

"I worked with Special Olympics back in high school and at my last base," Covington said. "Their spirit of competition and teamwork is still inspiring to me."

She went on to say many athletes looked up to her and were grateful for Team Langley's ability to host the event.

"They were all very nice, both players and staff," Covington said. "Even though they planned most of the tournament and logistics, you would think we did it all by how they treated us."

The feeling of thanks and generosity was mutual for Master Sgt. Michael Daugherty, a Langley volunteer at the Special Olympics.

"I enjoy working with others; plus I like competitive sporting events," said Daugherty. "So if I also have the opportunity to help someone, why not?"

Daugherty explained how hard it can be when someone needs help, and also how good it feels to be that help.

"When I volunteer or help someone, the feeling I get is hard to explain," Daugherty said. "If you need help, it is such a relief to receive it, so to be that help is really a win-win; they feel good and so do I."

Even though the Special Olympics are not currently scheduled to return to Langley next year, Langley Airmen believe the memory of the willingness to compete and their spirit of sportsmanship from the athletes will last a lifetime.

A Grunt Speaks: 'Devil's Dictionary of Vietnam Infantry Tales & Terms

The March 21, 2013, episode of American Heroes Radio features a conversation with Major Ray Gleason, USA (ret.), the author of A Grunt Speaks: A 'Devil's Dictionary' of Vietnam Infantry Tales and Terms.

Program Date: March 21, 2013

Program Time: 1500 hours, PACIFIC

Topic: A Grunt Speaks: A 'Devil's Dictionary' of Vietnam Infantry Tales and Terms

Listen Live:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2013/03/21/a-grunt-speaks-a-devils-dictionary-of-vietnam-infantry-t

About the Guest

Major Ray Gleason, USA (ret.) “is a retired infantry major of the United States Army.  He has been awarded several commendations and decorations, including the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), Bronze Star with V (Valor), and the State of New York Humanitarian Service Medal.  Gleason was also granted the State of Ohio Commendation Medal and Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold Palm.  He is currently a lecturer at Northwestern University’s School of Continuing Studies in Chicago.  Gleason received a Ph.D. (1997) in Medieval Literature and an MA (1989) in English Literature from Northwestern University. He also received a BA (1974), Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, in English Literature and European History from Hunter College in New York.  He has taught literature and writing at Mundelein College, Lewis University and William Rainy Harper College.  Gleason is on the Leadership and English faculties of the Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana.”  Major Ray Gleason is the author of A Grunt Speaks: A 'Devil's Dictionary' of Vietnam Infantry Tales and Terms.

According to the book description of A Grunt Speaks: A 'Devil's Dictionary' of Vietnam Infantry Tales and Terms, “What was it like to be a nineteen year old US Army infantryman in the highlands of Vietnam in the late 'sixties? Major Ray Gleason’s book, A Grunt Speaks: A 'Devil’s Dictionary of Vietnam Infantry Tales & Terms from Unlimited Publishing LLC, uses the terminology and concepts of the Vietnam-era infantry to explore the infantrymen’s attitudes toward their role in the war, the anti-war movement, their enemies and each other.

Gleason, a combat veteran, retired Infantry officer, college professor in literature, and ethics teacher brings a fresh, and at times humorously ironic, perspective on the experiences of young Americans in combat and their struggles to re-integrate themselves into a society that seemed at times hostile and embarrassed by what they represented.

Much more than just a glossary of Vietnam-era lingo, this fascinating compendium also gives the reader an insider’s view of real combat in the jungles of southeast Asia.”

About the Watering Hole

The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life.  Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host

Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years.  He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant.  He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University.  He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, law enforcement technology and leadership.  Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One.  He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:

Listen from the Archive: http://www.hitechcj.com/americanheroesradio/grunt_speaks.html

Program Contact Information

Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA

editor@police-writers.com

909.599.7530

Facebook Event:

http://www.facebook.com/events/425749430840022

An American Advisor in Wartime Vietnam

The March 14, 2013, episode of American Heroes Radio features a conversation with Robert G. Kay, a civilian advisor to the South Vietnamese Navy.

Program Date: March 14, 2013

Program Time: 1500 hours, PACIFIC

Topic: An American Advisor in Wartime Vietnam

Listen Live:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2013/03/14/an-american-advisor-in-wartime-vietnam

About the Guest

Robert G. Kay is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and currently resides in Pensacola, Fla. with his Vietnamese wife. He retired from the US Navy as a lieutenant in 1969 after being wounded and losing his leg in Vietnam. He returned to Vietnam as a civilian advisor to the Vietnamese Navy at the request of the commander of US Naval Forces in Vietnam. He held this post until the military left the country in March 1973. He then worked for the Defense Attaché Office in Saigon until the fall of South Vietnam in April 1975. He retired from Civil Service in 1997, where he worked as a supervisory repair engineer for PERA (Surface) in the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.  Robert G. Kay is the author of Pass Me The Rice.

According to the book description of Pass Me the Rice, “Vietnam. It’s perhaps one of least known yet most controversial wars in American history. What’s even more obscure are the tales of Americans serving in the country and interacting with the culture of war-torn Vietnamese civilians. Pass Me the Rice shares these experiences with readers.

In Pass Me the Rice, author Robert G. Kay reveals the everyday life of an American advisor during the Vietnam War in a true, historical and often humorous account of his experiences while serving the first two of his eventual eight years in country. The book provides a unique perspective on the early Vietnam War by offering a glimpse of Americans’ encounters with Vietnamese armed forces and civilians.

As an expert in Vietnamese culture, Kay’s novel also sheds light on the value of casting off ethnocentric worldviews. It offers an inside look at a country in a prolonged war for survival and a period of history frequently cast aside. “The book shows how to deal with another culture in the most dire of circumstances and why we shouldn’t judge other cultures by our own standards,” Kay says. “It is necessary to be aware of culture and avoid making mistakes that are viewed as insulting.”

About the Watering Hole

The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life.  Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host

Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years.  He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant.  He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University.  He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, law enforcement technology and leadership.  Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One.  He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:

Listen from the Archive:

http://www.hitechcj.com/americanheroesradio/american_advisor_wartime_vietnam.html

Program Contact Information

Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA

editor@police-writers.com

909.599.7530

Facebook Event:

http://www.facebook.com/events/340309639406776

Altus AFB, local community partner to 'grow' mechanics

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

2/15/2013 - ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AFNS) --  Altus, Okla., is known for its agricultural community and an Air Force base. Together, they are not only growing crops, they are "growing" mechanics through the Grow Your Own Mechanic program.

The GYOM program is an aircraft maintenance technician internship program. It was developed in 1999 under the Student Education Employment Plan in cooperation with the Southwest Technology Center's Aviation and Aerospace program providing skilled, aerospace jobs to the local area.

"We were one of the first programs in the Air Force to take advantage of the Student Education and Employment Program," said Michael Prater, the 97th Maintenance Directorate resource management flight chief.

The SWTC, located in the city of Altus, provides the initial aircraft technical training courses in airframe and aircraft engine skills to the mechanic candidates. From there, the 97th MXS provides hands-on experience, building aircraft mechanics. After successfully completing the program, graduates may have an opportunity to work as a Department of Defense employee at Altus AFB.

"We identify the students with an end target position in the 97th MXS, so that they can grow from their trainee-apprenticeship program all the way through to the end at that same position," Prater said.

More than 161 GYOM candidates have been hired between 1999 and 2012, and 93 of those are still active. For one of those candidates, this program has made his dreams come true.

"I think it is a great opportunity," said Bernabe Mejorado Jr., a 97th MXS work leader. "Coming from where I'm from, it was just a dream to be able to work on planes. Now, it is a dream come true for me."

Mejorado first came to Altus to work in the cotton fields and then earned a job in a meat processing plant, working full-time while completing the GYOM program.

"When I was working in the fields, there was a military plane that flew by us and I was like 'There goes my plane,' and my cousin told me 'One day, man,'" Mejorado said. "So when I first started working on the planes, it was beautiful for me."

The 97th MXS is currently hiring mechanics through the GYOM program, but the process is very selective and depends on job vacancy.

"We are hiring, but we are being very selective of our hiring processes," Prater said. "We are trying to hire the very best for the future."