Friday, December 14, 2012

New program prepares recruits for air force basic military training

by Senior Airman Mark Hybers
507th Air Refueling Wing, Public Affairs


12/13/2012 - TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Twenty two Air Force Reserve enlistees took part in the new Development and Training Flight program here designed to ease civilians into Air Force life.

New recruits awaiting basic military training have the opportunity to take part in this program, the first of its kind for the 507th. It's designed to give newly enlisted reservists the framework for success.

The program started as a conversation a few months ago. The Air Force Reserve Command initiative, has seen some success at other reserve wings, said the DTL facilitators.

Master Sgt. Tom Lord, 507th Medical Squadron, was selected to facilitate the new program. He, along with Chief Master Sgt. Stephen Brown, 507th Command Chief, visited Travis Air Force Base to look at their program. Once Lord saw how it works and how it's designed, he was fully committed to getting it off the ground.

Work began on the DTF Oct. 1 with the December unit training assembly in mind as the start date.

"There was a lot of coordination and planning that went into this," Lord said. "There were so many people involved in the process. I could not have possibly done this without them."

The weekend for the recruits starts Friday night with a stay at the base. Saturday morning everyone meets at the Airman Leadership School for roll call and then it's off to breakfast. Once the recruits are back at the classroom, the rest of the day is carried out very much like a day of boot camp.

Many guest speakers and facilitators were in and out throughout the day teaching on a variety of topics and lending their own personal perspective to better help the new recruits understand what lies ahead.

"It was nice to see different recruits getting different things out of this first weekend," said Lord.

The 507th Vice Commander, Col. Kevin Trayer spoke in the morning and explained to the new recruits just how important this program is for them and how great the opportunities coming their way.

The recruits were then taken to the track for a morning of physical fitness.

Nathalie Hamilton, one of the recruits really enjoyed the fit to fight portion of the first weekend.

"I really like pushing myself physically," said Hamilton, a future KC-135 Stratotanker crew chief. "The physical fitness was definitely the most fun."

The recruits were able to get a good taste of drill and ceremonies led by 1st Sgt. Deborah Kidd of the 507th Medical Squadron. Kidd was assisted by Staff Sgt. Christina Black and Staff Sgt. Jason Overstreet both of the 507th Security Forces Squadron.

Recruits were taken through a variety of facing movements and taught how to gather information.
"That was a lot harder than I thought it would be," said Hamilton.

Sergeant Lord was very complimentary of Kidd, Black and Overstreet, stating that this portion of the weekend was one of the most informative and productive for the new recruits. He said they were able to see real life exercises that will be performed the first day they arrive at boot camp.

"I'm really glad I was able to see the mental side of this," said Tanner Daugherty, who leaves for BMT in early January.
"You understand the physical part of this, but no one can really tell you about the mental part of this. "

With these recruits leaving for BMT at random times, new recruits will join the older ones every month. Some of the expectation on the older recruits is they have the leadership to help out new arrivals, Lord said.

"It's important that each month when the new recruits show up, there is already a handful of their peers taking the leadership role to help them through that first weekend," Lord said.

With AFRC easing the transition of civilians into the military life, the facilitators hope this program will continue to gain momentum.

Panetta Signs Order to Deploy 400 U.S. Personnel to Turkey

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey, Dec. 14, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has signed an order that will deploy 400 U.S. personnel to Turkey to support the deployment that NATO agreed to recently of Patriot missile capability there, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

Panetta signed the agreement en route to Turkey as he wrapped up a trip this week that included time in Kuwait and Afghanistan with civilian and military leaders.

He visited the troops to thank them for their dedication and sacrifice, and for spending another holiday season away from family and friends.

While in Kabul the secretary also met with Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of the International Security Assistance Force, ISAF regional commanders and Afghan President Hamid Karzai.
“The United States has been supporting Turkey in its efforts to defend itself,” Little said. “NATO has recently offered up Patriot missile battery capability to Turkey, [which] is a very strong ally of the United States.”
Little said he expects the troops to be deployed in the coming weeks.

“I’m not going to go into precise locations at this time, he added, “but I wanted to let you … know that we signed that order and that we are prepared in the context of NATO to support the defense of Turkey for an unspecified period of time.”

The personnel will deploy to Turkey to operate two U.S. Patriot missile batteries once they are in place, he said.

“The purpose of this deployment is to signal very strongly that the United States, working closely with our NATO allies, is going to support the defense of Turkey, especially with potential threats emanating from Syria,” Little said.

Incirlik Air Base is an installation of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, a major command of the U.S. Air Force and the air component of the U.S. European Command, a DOD unified command.

“Turkey also is a key NATO ally and we have a lot of U.S. forces stationed there to enhance our strong defense cooperation,” Panetta told reporters traveling with him as the trip began.

“Both the United States and Turkey share common concerns now about the violence in Syria and the threat that it poses to regional stability, he added.

Panetta said DOD has been working closely with Turkey on humanitarian issues, chemical and biological weapons issues, and missile defense.

“I’m pleased that last week NATO pledged to deploy missile defense systems to protect Turkey, and we will participate in that effort as well,” the secretary said.

Panetta said the United States and Turkey are committed to work together to strengthen defense systems and to put pressure on the Assad regime in neighboring Syria to end the violence in that country and help develop the political transition that must take place there.

Dyess JA garners ACC award

by Airman 1st Class Peter Thompson
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs


12/14/2012 - Dyess Air Force Base, Texas -- The 7th Bomb Wing Judge Advocate at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, was recently named the best legal office in Air Combat Command for 2012.

"It's a validation that our team and our people are doing the best work in our MAJCOM," said Maj. Lance Aiumopas, 7th Bomb Wing deputy staff judge advocate. "It's also a message to the wing and its commanders, showing how well the base understands and works with the JA office."

The Judge Advocate's military justice department supports good order and discipline on base. They were noted for having 94 percent of Airman discharges completed within the 15-day goal and 93 percent of Articles 15 completed within a 30-day standard.

The general law department makes sure Airmen, dependents and retirees' legal affairs are in order through legal assistance. In total, they completed 464 wills, 2,235 medical directives and more than 2,000 powers of attorney.

"It makes me feel good to know that we help our Airmen be fit to fight," said Staff Sgt. Stacey Ousley, 7th Bomb Wing judge advocate. "Doing our job relieves our customers and helps everyone accomplish the mission."

During the last fiscal year, the legal office has been recognized 11 times on the ACC legal assistance honor roll, which rates legal offices on efficiency and customer feedback.

"We are able to work so efficiently because of our teamwork," Aiumopas said. "We've overcome difficulties with manning by using people's skills in one department to help when another part of our office is overburdened."

"I'm so proud of everyone in our office," said Lt. Col Patrick Dolan, 7th Bomb Wing staff judge advocate. "It's a privilege to be able to work with such world-class Airmen and legal professionals."

552nd ACW Airman awarded Army medal for heroic actions

by Tech. Sgt. Mike Andriacco
U.S. Air Forces Central Command


12/14/2012 - SOUTHWEST ASIA -- A deployed Airman was awarded the U.S. Army Commendation Medal in a ceremony here, Dec. 7, with a citation that reads in part "For heroic and selfless action in response to a life or death situation."

U.S. Air Force Capt. Joshua Allen, a Combined Air and Space Operations Center senior air defense officer, was presented the medal by Army Brig. Gen. James Dickinson, the 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command commanding general, for saving the life of an Army Soldier on Oct. 7.

Allen and Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 John Fallin, a 32nd AAMDC missile defense planner, were forward deployed to participate in a joint training exercise in Hawaii in early October. During some off time, they decided to go snorkeling near one of the local beaches and teamed up to keep an eye on each other. They were glad they did.

"We partnered up to keep safe and this is a situation where the 'Wingman' and 'Battle Buddy' system worked as prescribed," Allen said.

The duo swam approximately 100 yards off shore and explored the area a bit before deciding to return to shore. It was during this return trip that Fallin started having problems.

"As we turned back to shore I began to experience shortness of breath and muscle weakness," Fallin said. "I attempted to make it back to shore until my vision began to narrow, signaling that I might lose consciousness."

Around the same time, Allen said he noticed Fallin was falling behind and was signaling that he needed help.

"I went back to him and he explained he was having trouble breathing," Allen said. "I told him to grab onto my back and that I would swim us both in. After a few minutes I realized he wasn't improving and focused on getting to shore as fast as I could. It wasn't until we got to the beach that I noticed how blue his face was."

When the pair made it to shore, two bystanders helped an exhausted Allen move Fallin from the water to await emergency medical technicians. The EMTs transported Fallin to Tripler Army Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with reverse pressure pulmonary edema.

"It means the pressure in my lunges reversed and I began to absorb fluid from my body into my lungs," Fallin said. "It's caused by a restricted airway."

In this case, doctors believe that a combination of a faulty snorkel and a fast shift from warm water to colder, deeper water, contributed to the condition. Though critical for a time, Fallin expects to suffer no long-term effects from his injury.

As for Allen, he credits his fitness regimen with ensuring he was prepared to act and save his friend's life.

"My habits don't have me in the gym seven days a week," he said. "But the three to four times were enough to allow me to help my wingman when I wasn't expecting it."

Allen, a member of the 966th Airborne Air Control Squadron, is deployed from Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., and said that regardless of physical condition, he thinks anyone put in the same position would have done the same to help a friend.

"I don't feel like a hero," he said. "But I'm sure Chief Fallin was thankful to have me there to help him."

Fallin agrees wholeheartedly.

"He can be my wingman anytime!" he said.

Chairman Addresses Deployed Sailors’ Concerns

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

MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 14, 2012 – Members of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. Fifth Fleet, had the opportunity to voice their concerns during a meeting with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and his senior enlisted advisor here yesterday.


Click photo for screen-resolution image
Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, center, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, thanks sailors, their families and Defense Department civilians from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. Fifth Fleet, during a stop on his annual holiday USO tour in Manama, Bahrain, Dec. 13, 2012. DOD photo by U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
  

(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, joined by Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. Battaglia, met sailors, families and Defense Department civilians, and provided them an opportunity to ask questions of their senior leaders during a meet and greet on his annual holiday United Service Organizations tour in the region.
 
“You're doing an incredible job,” Dempsey told the group. “We are really in 21-year conflict that started in this region in 1991 with Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

“We were deeply engaged in trying to keep stability in this part of the world,” the chairman continued. “And then, of course, along came 9/11, and many of the threats that created that challenge for our country emanated out of here.”

The chairman told service members assembled around him that they represent “the latest generation of young men and women who have answered the call, as your country has asked, to come and serve here. And you're really, really making us proud.”

Today there are “any number of challenges facing our nation,” Dempsey said, citing rising powers as well as the possibility of available technology and weaponry falling in to the hands of nonstate groups, making them “more dangerous than they really should be to us.”

“And then there's also our financial situation, which we share with many countries in the rest of the world,” he added.

The United States, however, will weather through today’s period of uneasiness, Dempsey said, as it has done before.

“We figure stuff out, even when we appear a little uncertain or unsettled,” the chairman said. “We will, at the end of the day, do what's right, and get it right 100 percent of the time.”

The chairman said the current generation of military leaders serving the nation at home, in Afghanistan, and elsewhere around the globe makes him confident of the future.

As long as leaders remain committed to the mission, to their own development as individuals, and to their families, Dempsey said, “I think we're going to be fine.”

The chairman also rebuked the notion that the U.S. military is in decline.

“It is not in decline and it will never be in decline,” Dempsey said. “We won't let it be in decline. It might get bigger some years and smaller in others; we might stretch part of the force more one time than another -- it always seems to level out over time.

“But like I said, we will figure it out -- I promise you that,” he continued. “So during this holiday season let me just tell you, ‘Thanks.’ And I wish you everything that could possibly come your way.”

Dempsey added, “However you chose to worship, I wish you all of the blessings that come, because you, more than anyone in our country, has earned those blessings. And I promise you, we will not forget that as we do our part of the fight back in Washington, D.C.”

Following his remarks, the chairman fielded questions from the audience on topics such as the future of the Defense of Marriage Act, a federal law which currently defines marriage as the legal union between a man and a woman.

“The Supreme Court did agree to take it up sometime between now and June,” Dempsey said. “[And] yes, we do have plans in place … if the law is repealed. We will put in place methods to ensure same-sex partners have the same benefits, if they're married, as a heterosexual couple will.”
However, he did note that the Defense Department is “bound by law” until the act is “repealed or overturned” by the Supreme Court.

On a question about future operations in Afghanistan, Dempsey said after the next two years, “the president has made clear, our war in Afghanistan will be over.” However, he added, “we'll be there in more modest numbers to support [Afghan security forces].”

Dempsey also addressed concerns about a change in the current military retirement system, and assured the audience that he, and Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, will keep faith with “anybody already in the system.”

The 18th chairman concluded his visit by serenading the crowd with a rendition of “Christmas in Killarney,” then wished everyone a “Merry Christmas.”

USO Continues Legacy of Supporting America's Troops, Families

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

MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 14, 2012 – The USO’s mission hasn't changed after nearly 72 years of serving U.S. troops and their families, and it will continue to adapt to remain relevant, the USO's president said here yesterday.

Sloan D. Gibson, the nonprofit organization's president, has joined Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the annual USO holiday tour for troops deployed and stationed abroad.

“It's a really important this time of year to get over and remind troops and families that the folks back home are thinking about them,” Gibson said. “And that we appreciate them. I'd say, after 11 years of war and what appears to be some winding down, perhaps it becomes more important.”

Gibson said like everything else the USO does, the real purpose of the annual USO holiday tour is to say thanks.

“When I talk to large audiences of troops and families, I point toward the USO logo, that's usually up on a sign or up on a screen somewhere, and … I say … when you see that sign, what you need to think is America's saying, 'thank you,'” he said.

“And we find lots of different ways to say 'thank you,'” Gibson said, “and one way is by bringing some celebrities over to visit.”

The USO president said he usually goes out with the chairman, but missed last year's tour.

“This being a new chairman, I wanted to go out and do one with him,” Gibson said. “I'm guessing right now, I'll probably do the one next year as well.”

“The other opportunity, for me, I needed to get back to into Afghanistan, anyway, to visit [our] centers,” he said. “We're now running nine USO centers in Afghanistan.”

The USO centers in Afghanistan are visited about “170,000 times a month,” Gibson said.

“So I will split off at the end of the tour, and stay in Afghanistan several more days, visit some centers, and then do a little of what we call 'Christmas convoying' while I'm over there,” he said.

“This is the most fun thing I get to do, so nobody needs to wowed by that,” Gibson said. “This is a treat for me, and I can't think of a better way to spend this time of year.”

The USO president said he has been on nearly half a dozen different types of USO tours of different kinds, and “this is the fun stuff.”

“It's hard for me to carve out a week or 10 days to come do this,” Gibson said, because “this is also kind of a busy time of year for us. There's a lot of fundraising that goes on around the end of the year.”

With a lot of programs and entertainment going out, and other USO efforts to “deliver programs to troops and families,” it becomes tough to find time, but “every so often, you need to do that,” he added.

Gibson said the toughest part of putting together USO tours is dealing with scheduling, since “rarely, if ever, do we get a celebrity that says, 'No, I don't want to go and visit with the troops.'”

Celebrities usually say they would love to do a USO tour, Gibson said. Then scheduling becomes the challenge.

“And so, that's really the hard part,” Gibson said. “It's working schedules to be able to put a tour together with the right mix of talent, to go to the right locations.”

“We've got folks that are real pros at both recruiting celebrities as well as producing USO tours,” he added.
Gibson said many of the celebrities participating in USO projects have a military connection in some form or fashion, whether it's a relative, a friend or classmate who has previously served, and “often times, there was that connection at work.”

The USO president said his organization remains committed to taking care of U.S. troops and their loved ones.

“Our mission at the USO is pretty straightforward,” he said. “We [continue to] lift the spirits of America's troops and their families.”

Wisconsin Challenge Academy to honor 99 graduates, scholarship recipients



Ninety-nine cadets from 40 counties will graduate from the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy in a noon ceremony Saturday, Dec. 15, at Mauston High School.

The Challenge Academy re-shapes the lives of at-risk 16-to-18-year-olds. It uses a structured, military-style environment and state-certified teachers and counselors to build cadets' academic abilities, character, self-confidence, and personal discipline.

After graduating from the 22-week residential phase of academy training, cadets are paired with hometown mentors who offer guidance and encouragement in pursuing their new direction in life.

Maj. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, is scheduled to address graduates along with their parents, relatives, mentors, and friends on hand to celebrate their success.

Three cadets who previously graduated from Challenge Academy will receive scholarships to the colleges of their choice:

    Crystal Diaz of Oregon, Wis., was selected to receive two $1,000 scholarships from the National Guard Youth Foundation and BAE Systems, respectively. Diaz is enrolled at Madison Media Institute for Entertainment Media Business in Madison.
    Abel Thomas of Milwaukee will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship from Northrop Grumman Information Services. Thomas is attending Silver Lake College in Manitowoc.
    Oshkosh Defense will award a $1,000 scholarship to Gabby Perales of Beloit, Wis. Perales is currently attending First Class Cosmetology School in Beloit.

Twenty-eight states and Puerto Rico offer similar programs nationwide. More than 100,000 teens have successfully completed the National Guard youth programs since 1993. In Wisconsin more than 86 percent of cadets who finish the program receive their high school equivalency diploma (HSED), and more than 80 percent stay out of trouble with the law.

The Wisconsin Challenge Academy will begin its next class Jan. 17, 2013. Applications are available for future classes by contacting the Challenge Academy at (866) 968-8422

AFSOC builds partnerships with sister services, foreign militaries

by Senior Airman Melanie Holochwost
Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs


12/14/2012 - HURLBURT FIELD, Fla.  -- More than 30 servicemembers and civil servants from 10 different countries gathered here to attend the Building Partner Aviation Capacity Course Dec. 3 through today.

BPACC was designed as an avenue for Air Force Special Operations Command to create, nurture or deepen partnerships with foreign militaries, sister services, and other Air Force major commands.

During the course, international students from Afghanistan, Angola, Cote D'Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Germany, Mauritius, Paraguay, Rwanda and Zambia embedded with American students from across the joint aviation community, including not only Special Operations Forces, but general purpose Air Force, Army and Navy organizations.

One of the students, Lt. Col. Gabriel Medina, Dominican Republic Air Force Academy vice commander and fighter pilot, said the course opened his eyes to the strategic side of aviation.

"I learned that sometimes leaders use aviation to develop things that don't have anything to do with the military or even aviation," he said. "For example, aviation can be used as a tool to build tourism, which is the largest source of revenue in my country."

Prior to this course, Medina said he never understood why there were so many airports in the Dominican Republic.

"I thought it was happening by accident because we have a lot of airports for such a small country," he said. "But, now I understand there was probably a clear purpose and objective behind it - tourism.

"Basically, when you build an international airport, tourists will come," Medina added.

Maj. Frank Weise, German Air Forces Command plans and requirements officer, said he attended BPACC to prepare for future missions.

"Germany is geographically close to Africa so it makes sense that we will increase our involvement with them in the future," he said. "If there is an opportunity to go to Africa, I will apply for it. This way I can bring the information I learned in this course down to the tactical level on the field."

Weise said the course also gave him one thing that wasn't listed in the syllabus.

"I have seven new friends from Africa," he said. "That alone is a great tool to take with me."

National Guard Members Prepare for Presidential Inauguration

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Soucy
National Guard Bureau

ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 14, 2012 – Around 6,000 Army and Air National Guard members from 15 states and territories are preparing to take part in and support the 57th Presidential Inauguration, according to National Guard officials.


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Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Scott Hinds, with the District of Columbia Air National Guard, walks along a large-scale map of Washington, D.C., while giving a briefing about the 57th Presidential Inauguration at the District of Columbia Armory, Dec. 12, 2013. The D.C. National Guard has participated in every presidential inauguration since 1861. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jon Soucy
  

(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
Army Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz, District of Columbia National Guard commanding general, said National Guard members will report to the District of Columbia, and then disperse to several parts of the city to support inauguration events.

The Presidential Inauguration will be held Jan. 21, 2013.
Many of those 6,000 soldiers and airmen, who will join an additional 7,000 service members from other military services, will support local authorities, the general said.

“Most of the National Guard members will be outside of the parade route,” he said. “There are a few, about 300, that will be involved in the ceremony and the parade.”

Guard members will assist largely in traffic control, crowd management, and communications and medical support, Schwartz said. Over the past few months, he added, the D.C. Guard has worked with local and federal officials and agencies in planning for the event.

“We are working closely with the D.C. emergency management agencies, the Park Police, the active-duty military components and the United States Secret Service who are all performing the duties of the inauguration,” he said.

Army Brig. Gen. Arthur W. Hinaman, commander of Joint Task Force D.C., the Guard support element of the inauguration, noted many of those working relationships stem from everyday National Guard activities.
“We live here,” Hinaman said. “We work with these people during [several events] each year, so it’s not like we haven’t talked with these guys since 2009. We work with them every day. It’s continuous, and this is really just a culmination of everything we do.”

Army Sgt. 1st Class George Mickens, assistant noncommissioned officer in charge of logistics for JTF D.C., said planners for the upcoming inauguration have incorporated lessons learned from previous events.
“We have a good model that we go by and we take lessons learned in every [inauguration] -- and it gets [smoother] every four years,” Mickens said.

All involved agree about the complexity involved in planning such a large-scale event.

“Some of the challenges are just the dispersion of the units,” Hinaman said, referring to the participation of many units from outside the local area. “It’s not like I can come in the office and call in my 6,000-person task force and we can talk about what we’re going to do. There are challenges in that, but it’s also what makes our Guard great. We respond well and people are excited about taking part. We’re getting the support we need.”

Planning for this inauguration comes on the heels of the 2009 inauguration, which saw the largest public attendance at the event, he noted.

“The inauguration in 2009 really blew up about 30 days out, and we were scrambling to increase our effort from just a small one that we could handle here locally,” Hinaman said. “This time we’ve anticipated that it’s going to be large, and we’ve planned for it to be large, and it’s turned into something a little bit smaller than what we expected -- so we’re way ahead [of] where we were last time.”

Many in the D.C. Guard said taking part in the inauguration brings a sense of pride. The D.C. Guard’s tie to the event dates back to President Abraham Lincoln’s 1861 inauguration.

“There is a great amount of pride that comes with that,” Hinaman said. “Our slogan, ‘Capital Guardians,’ truly every four years we exercise that. We pretty much live for this event. This is our trademark event. We take a lot of pride in it. It’s an honor for us as the D.C. Guard to pay respect to the commander in chief.”
Many within the D.C. Guard have participated in more than one inauguration. This is the fourth event for Mickens since he marched in President Bill Clinton’s 1997 inaugural parade.

“I had just come into the D.C. National Guard in February 1996, so I was a starry-eyed kid,” he said. “And 11 months later, I’m marching in the inauguration celebration. It was like Christmas to me. I had always seen it on TV, and I had always wondered what it would feel like [to take part in the inauguration]. It’s history. It’s something you can tell your kids and grandkids one day. I was a part of that.”

Schwartz said this will be his ninth inauguration. Each one is unique, he added, and though the events vary over the years, many things have remained constant.

“One of the things that the D.C. National Guard is proud of [is], we have participated [in each inauguration] since … President Lincoln,” Schwartz said. “We have the skill sets and we have the know-how to do this, and we want to make sure the eye of the world sees what a peaceful transition of power looks like.”

50 SW dubbed excellent in CUI

by Staff Sgt. Robert Cloys
50th Space Wing Public Affairs


12/11/2012 - SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 50th Space Wing recently earned an overall grade of excellent during the command's Consolidated Unit Inspection administered by the Air Force Space Command Inspector General.

Members of the AFSPC IG team inspected the wing including its geographically separated units Nov. 28 to Dec 10.

Using a five-tier structure, each unit had the potential to be rated either unsatisfactory, marginal, satisfactory, excellent or outstanding.

According to the IG definition, an excellent rating indicates that performance or an operation exceeds mission requirements, procedures and activities are carried out in a superior manner and resources and programs are very efficiently managed and relatively free of deficiencies.

"The professionalism and support you provided to the IG not only during the inspection, but before is a testament to the professionalism throughout the entire wing," said Col. Robert Skinner, AFSPC IG during the CUI outbrief Dec. 10. "For a major wing in the first compliance inspection with the new five-tier system to get an excellent, be proud of that effort."

Of 47 major graded areas, 50 SW received eight outstanding ratings. In addition, 31 professional performers, 21 professional teams and 45 strengths were identified.

"The way this wing pulled together was phenomenal," said Col. James Ross, 50 SW commander. "This was a team effort. Once again you proved why we are the best wing in Air Force Space Command. I believe that this team can do anything it puts its mind to, and you just confirmed that for me."

CUIs are conducted to assess areas mandated by law, as well as mission areas identified by senior Air Force and major command leadership as critical or important to the health and performance of a unit.

"What we really want out of an inspection of this magnitude is to be a more effective, efficient and executable wing," said Chief Master Sgt. Patrick McMahon, 50 SW command chief. "I truly believe that we are."

In addition, a Logistics Compliance Assessment Team inspected Schriever's logistics professionals who earned an excellent rating. The 50 SW Judge Advocate also went through an Article 6 inspection at the same time the CUI was taking place and earned the rating of in compliance with comments. Only eight minor findings were identified from 300 checklist items.

Professional Teams
50th Space Wing
Wing Staff
Equal Opportunity Office
Information Protection Office
Public Affairs Office

50th Civil Engineer Squadron
Energy Management Team
Fire Prevention Section
Housing Management Team

50th Contracting Squadron
LGCZ (Specialized Flight) Contracting Officer and Specialist Team

50th Force Support Squadron
Manpower and Organization Section
Marketing Department
Mortuary Affairs Team

50th Security Forces Squadron
Security Forces Training Section
Shoot House Demo Team

50th Network Operations Group
Exercise Evaluation Team

22d Space Operations Squadron
Network Operations Center Team, Day Shift, 5 Dec 12
Unit Control Center A-Team, 5 Dec 12

23d Space Operations Squadron (New Boston AFS)
COMSEC Team
Records Management Team

50th Space Communications Squadron
Information Assurance Flight
Base Equipment Custodian Office

50th Operations Group
Exercise Evaluation Team Members

1st Space Operations Squadron
Operations Training Flight (MMSOC)

Professional Performers
50th Space Wing
Wing Staff
Mr. Paul M. Aldrich

Safety
Tech. Sgt. Sarah L. Law

Historian
Mr. Randolph J. Saunders

Antiterrorism Officer
Mr. Louis W. Fischer

50th Comptroller Squadron
Senior Airman Abbey J. Oladiti

50th Civil Engineer Squadron
Tech. Sgt. Evan R. Goss
Mr. Robert J. Finley, Jr.
Mr. Robert S. Matthias

50th Contracting Squadron
Mr. Stephen R. Cooper

50th Force Support Squadron
Mrs. Wendy M. Derosier
Ms. Karen A. Draper

50th Security Forces Squadron
Master Sgt. Bradley Krause
Staff Sgt. Adam S. Donahue

22d Space Operations Squadron
Capt. Irakli Matchavariani
Staff Sgt. Leanne K. Wheeler

23d Space Operations Squadron (New Boston AFS)
Mater Sgt. David E. McDonald
Mr. Rodney W. Hooper
Mr. Bruce D. Larrabee
Mrs. Leola R. LaRoche

50th Operations Group
Staff Sgt. Moises G. Gomez

50th Operations Support Squadron
Maj. Mark C. Bigley
1st Lt. Michael E. McCormick
1st Lt. Eric T. Zosso

1st Space Operations Squadron
Capt. Stanley M. Maczek
Senior Airman Jonathon R. Farill

3d Space Operations Squadron
1st Lt. Charles A. Lightfoot
Mrs. Michele A. Ingraham

4th Space Operations Squadron
Capt. Laurel A. Jodice
Mrs. Lisa A. Buhlinger

21st Space Wing
21st Medical Squadron
Staff Sgt. Maria C. Cortez-Jaehnig
Ms. Bertha Espinoza

Schriever steps up sexual assault prevention

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


12/12/2012 - SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Air Force's top leadership recently reiterated the service's zero-tolerance for sexual assault to stop a cycle of unprofessional behavior that is incompatible with the service's core values. Failure to act or prevent a potential assault is a crime.

A 2010 Gallup poll found that 19 percent of female Airmen and two percent of male Airmen were victims of sexual assault since joining the Air Force. Most of these crimes were committed by fellow Airmen - blue on blue.

"Sexual harassment and sexual assault are getting a lot of focus right now because people are seeing (behaviors) in the workplace that is starting down the harassment side then moving along and continuing to the assault side," said Paula Krause, 50th Space Wing sexual assault response coordinator.

Recently, Schriever participated in the Air Force-wide health and welfare inspection to emphasize an environment of respect, trust and professionalism in the workplace. The purpose of this inspection is to reinforce expectations for the workplace environment, correct deficiencies and deter conditions that may be detrimental to good order and discipline. Organizations looked for and removed, if found, unprofessional or inappropriate items that hinder a professional working environment.

The Community Action Information Board is currently working on an initiative to scrutinize the base's prevention program and what the base can do to be more innovative in its prevention approach.

The Equal Opportunity office and the SARC are also planning on performing organizational visits to gain a clear understanding of what they know about sexual assault and harassment.

"Do they know what is appropriate in the workplace and what is not?" Krause said. "We'll talk about how these inappropriate behaviors can lead to an assault if they are not checked."

According to the Department of Defense, sexual assault is defined as intentional sexual contact, characterized by use of force, threats, intimidation, abuse of authority or when the victim does not or cannot consent. Sexual assault includes rape, forcible sodomy and other unwanted sexual contact that is aggravated, abusive or wrongful or attempts to commit these acts.

"Primarily, sexual assault prevention falls under the SARC," Krause said. "We address victim care and prevention efforts."

Airmen and civilians who want to get involved with talking to people about awareness and prevention, can participate as victim advocates. They provide information during commander's calls, First Term Airmen Center and Right Start briefings.

Most importantly, Krause said good wingmen are key in preventing sexual harassment and assault.

"Being a good wingman and saying, 'Hey, look, I see something that is not right,' either by yourself or taking up to the chain, is really important," Krause said. "We talked about that during our bystander intervention training. 'What would you do if you're in that kind of situation?'"

Especially in a workplace environment, sexual harassment and assault start out with small things, she said. This includes people making personal comments or other inappropriate behaviors.

"If something doesn't feel right to you, it is not right," Krause said. "Say something."

According to the Letter to Airmen sent Nov. 16 by Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley, Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James A. Roy, the Air Force must drive sexual assault from the ranks.

"You are a big part of the solution," the Air Force's top leadership said. "Become personally involved. Recommit yourself to our core values. Be an advocate for professionalism and discipline. Let your fellow Airmen know you will not tolerate or support others who believe sexual assault is somehow acceptable - because it is not. Most importantly, if you are aware of sexual assault in your unit, report it."

Linebacker II Remembrance Ceremony

by Senior Airman Wiseman
36th Wing Public Affairs


12/14/2012 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- The annual Linebacker II Remembrance Ceremony was held at the Arc Light Memorial Park here Dec. 14. The ceremony honors the heroes that made the ultimate sacrifice in support of Operation Linebacker II.

Operation Linebacker II, also referred to as the "11-Day War," was conducted from Dec. 18, 1972 to Dec. 29, 1972. After peace talks between the U.S. and North Vietnam failed, U.S. President Richard Nixon ordered the bombing of North Vietnam to bring the North Vietnamese government back to the negotiating table.

"During Operation Linebacker II, more than 700 sorties were flown and 15,000 tons of ordnances were dropped on targets in North Vietnam," said Col. Randy Kaufman, 36th Operations Group commander. "For 11 days, Andersen became a very busy base."

Throughout the operation, Andersen was the staging area for the B-52 Stratofortress bombers. With an increase of Airmen and B-52s taking up nearly five miles of ramp space, Andersen was the site of the largest rapid buildup of airpower in history.

"Andersen grew to a population of more than 10,000 active duty members, and the number of B-52s increased from 34 to 155 by the time Operation Linebacker II kicked off," said Colonel Kaufman. "The population increased so much that Airmen started sleeping in the gym and 'tent cities' were constructed just to house the Airmen."

Even though the operation was considered a great success, like most conflicts or wars, there were casualties. During Operation Linebacker II, 33 B-52 crewmembers were killed or missing in action as a result of the massive bombing on North Vietnam. Many deaths were credited to SA-2 surface-to-air missiles launched by the North Vietnamese.

"Operation Linebacker II was a success, but it was not without loss," said Colonel Kaufman. "33 men and 15 aircrafts were lost during the operation," said Colonel Kaufman. "The names of those men are etched in bronze on this memorial."

It has been 40 years since Operation Linebacker II started, and Andersen continues to honor its fallen warriors every December.

"We come together to honor their gallantry and sacrifices to our nation," said Colonel Kaufman during the ceremony. "Your attendance today ensures that their sacrifices will never be forgotten."

Andersen medics decrease response time with new EMEDS HRT

by Senior Airman Benjamin Wiseman
36th Wing Public Affairs


12/14/2012 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- -- More than 60 medical Airmen from Andersen Air Force Base, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska and Yokota Air Base, Japan, joined together to train on the new EMEDS HRT here, Dec. 10-13.

EMEDS is a team of expertly-trained medical professionals who utilize a mobile tent hospital to support the needs of the emergency responders. The team is able to handle most aspects of emergency medical care, including surgery and trauma.

The 36th Medical Group current EMEDS basic capabilities can be used to provide prevention, acute intervention, primary care and dental service to a population of 1,500 to 3,000 people, and additional capabilities have been added to the new EMEDS HRT system.

The 36th MDG is one of 10 Air Force units that will be replacing the old EMEDS basic with the new system. In the past, the 36th MDG could use the basic system to respond to its humanitarian assistance rapid response team, but the new EMEDS HRT will improve the group's response time due to its leaner, faster and more effective design.

"The EMEDS basic originally used Alaskan shelters that were bulkier and took longer to set up," said Maj. Ryan Gabel, Air Combat Command training cadre from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va. "The new tents are lighter, and one tent can be completely built with electricity in about 30 minutes."

The tents are not the only upgrade to the system. With capability in mind, the EMEDS HRT system is packed to ensure the most important capability is readily available when deployment is needed.

"The basic system packed supplies to benefit movement of the EMEDS," Major Gabel continued. "But the EMEDS HRT system is packed to ensure that important capabilities are available quicker. The emergency room can now be set up and running within two hours."

Along with participating personnel, trainers from Air Combat Command and U.S. Pacific Command traveled to Andersen to assist with the new equipment set up.

"We are out here to help them familiarize with the new equipment," said Major Gabel. "We can go through the setup step-by-step to ensure everyone knows how to do it correctly."

For one week, PACAF medics worked together setting up the EMEDS HRT system, stocking it with medical supplies and even treating simulated patients.

"The team was very motivated during the training," said Major Gabel. "They were enthusiastic about learning the new equipment and process. They did a great job and gave us feedback that we can carry back to make the new system even better."

ACC Top Cops recognized

by Tech. Sgt. Chyenne A. Adams
633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs


12/14/2012 - Langley Air Force Base, Va. -- Air Combat Command leadership recognized their "top cops" during a visit to Langley Air Force Base, Va., Dec. 4 to 6, 2012.

Security Forces members came from installations throughout the command to receive their awards at the 2011 and 2012 ACC SFS Awards Banquet Dec. 6.

Brig. Gen. Allen J. Jamerson, director of Security Forces, deputy chief of staff for Logistics, Installations and Mission Support, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. presided over the ceremony that honored Airmen and civilians from SFS units throughout the command.

2011 ACC unit award winners:

Outstanding Security Forces Large Unit - 55th Security Forces Squadron, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.

Outstanding Security Forces Medium Unit - 366th Security Forces Squadron, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho

Outstanding Security Forces Small Unit - 99th Ground Combat Training Squadron, Creech Air Force Base, Nev.

2011 ACC individual award winners:

Col. Billy Jack Carter Award - Tech. Sgt. Bradford R. Camp, 4th Security Forces, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.

Airman 1st Class Elizabeth N. Jacobson Award for Expeditionary Excellence - Airman 1st Class Andrew J. Long, 20th SFS, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C.

Outstanding Security Forces Company Grade Officer - Capt. Patrick C. Gordon, 355th SFS, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. John R. Sweeney, 49th SFS, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Noncommissioned Officer - Staff Sgt. Robert J. Wilson, 366th SFS, Mountain Home Air Force Base, N.C.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Airman - Staff Sgt. Wade C. Smith, 23rd SFS, Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Senior Master Sgt. Jessie Cantu, 7th SFS, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Noncommissioned Officer - Tech. Sgt. David F. Leebert, 4th SFS, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Airman - Senior Airman Calvin B. Meyer, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Civilian Employee - Cary L. Marshall, 99th GCTS, Creech Air Force Base, Nev.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Civilian - Supervisory Level - Officer Clayton J. Gibbs, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Civilian - Non-Supervisory Level - Officer James B. Wolfe, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Company Grade Officer - Capt. Nicholas J. Petren, Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. Lawrence L. Meeks, Jr., Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Civilian Employee - Chester Chapman, Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Air Reserve Component Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. Edwin J. Lipp, 23th SFS, Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

2012 ACC individual award winners:

Col. Billy Jack Carter Award - Staff Sgt. Elizabeth N. Boyer, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.
Airman 1st Class Elizabeth N. Jacobson Award for Expeditionary Excellence - Senior Airman Michael L. Lausier, 9th SFS, Beale Air Force Base, Calif.

Outstanding Security Forces Company Grade Officer - Capt. Jaime Hernandez, Jr., 55th SFS, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. Kenneth Broughman, 4th SFS, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Noncommissioned Officer - Tech. Sgt. Ernie Y. Argarin, 55th SFS, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Airman - Senior Airman James A. Bolling, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. Brian R. Lamasney, 355th SFS, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Noncommissioned Officer - Tech. Sgt. Jeremiah E. Garza, 633rd SFS, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Airman - Staff Sgt. Joshua Begley, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Civilian Employee - Peter Torok, 355th SFS, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Civilian - Supervisory Level - Officer David M. Donnelly, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Flight Level Civilian - Non-Supervisory Level - Officer Tricia D. Johnson, 28th SFS, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Company Grade Officer - Capt. Jacob R. Foley, Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Noncommissioned Officer - Senior Master Sgt. Jeremy D. Yates, Jr., Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Higher Headquarters Civilian Employee - T. Robert Sherrill, Headquarters ACC, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Outstanding Security Forces Air Reserve Component Senior Noncommissioned Officer - Master Sgt. Edwin J. Lipp, 23rd SFS, Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

Troops Enjoy Chairman’s USO Holiday Tour Show

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

MANAS, Kyrgyzstan, Dec. 14, 2012 – Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines received a rare treat today as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and his annual USO holiday tour visited the Transit Center here.
Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey was joined by his senior enlisted advisor, Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. Battaglia, and their spouses.

Dempsey introduced this year's lineup of USO talent to the raucous crowd of nearly 500 service members who came out despite freezing temperatures and ankle-deep snow.

“I am questioning my judgment coming in December. There's probably other times a year where we could have a different climate out there,” the chairman joked.

“We really do appreciate what you do up here,” Dempsey said. “And we know what you do up here whether it's refueling five, 100 [or] 600,000 passengers passing through, going to and from Afghanistan.”
Dempsey encouraged the troops to call home to their families during the holidays and pass on his appreciation to them as well.

“I also want you to pass on to your family members, however you connect with them, whether it's Skype, Facebook, text or phone calls,” he said. “Make sure you tell them that the chairman and the sergeant major said 'thanks' for their service, and we hope you will be rejoined with them soon.

“But in the meantime, thanks for what you do,” the chairman added.

Battaglia also greeted the enthusiastic crowd, assuring them if they continued their excitement they would have a “great time.”

“As the chairman said, we really are excited and honored to be sharing some part of Christmas here with you,” the sergeant major said. “And we know you can't, for the most part, make it home during the holidays and that's ok.

“We know that while you may not be with your families back home, you're with your family here,” Battaglia continued. “And that's what's important to us and that's one of the many reasons why we're so proud of each and every one of you.”

After hearing from their senior leaders, the service members were treated to a show featuring Washington Nationals Major League Baseball players Ross Detwiler and Craig Stammen; Matt Hendricks, a Washington Capitals' National Hockey League player; comedian Iliza Schlesinger, winner of NBC's Last Comic Standing and country music singer Kellie Pickler and her band.

Additionally, USO President Sloan D. Gibson, and Shane Hudella, of “Defending the Blue Line,” an organization that donates hockey equipment to military families, watched the show, having traveled with the group.

After the show, troops eagerly waited for photos and autographs from their USO guests.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Heather Chua, a protocol specialist from Spartanburg, S.C., said she thought the show was “great.”

“It was a lot of fun,” Chua said. “I've never been to a concert before or a USO show. I liked the comedian. I liked how she was so down to Earth and she was an actual person so it wasn't like she was just a celebrity here to entertain us. She was one of us, and it was a lot of fun.

“It's good that they want to come out and share our home with us for a little while, she added.
Air Force Airman 1st Class Miranda Kalander, a native of Prentice, Wis., was especially excited after she met and sang with Kellie Pickler during the show.

“I thought it was amazing,” the airman said. “I got let off work early just to come and see these guys. It's kind of a blessing just to be able to come and see them.”

Kalander, who’d been a contestant on the 2010 season of “American Idol,” said she was fortunate to get on stage when Pickler said she would only sing the song “Red High Heels” if she sang it with her.

“So I was like 'alright,' and I just turned around and dragged one of my buddies and brought her up there with me,” Kalander said. “I kind of felt a little star-struck standing next to Kellie Pickler [because] that's kind of my dream to stand up there and sing in front of people again.”

Air Force Announces OTS Selection Board 13OT01 Results

Air Force Recruiting Service Public Affairs

12/13/2012 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- A total of 245 men and women from across America have earned an opportunity to become Air Force leaders following their selection for an officer's commission, officials here announced today.

Air Force Recruiting Service officials considered 717 applications as part of the Officer Training School Non-Rated Selection Board 13OT01. With the board's selection rate of 34.1 percent, 245 applicants were selected to serve as United States Air Force officers. Of the 245 selected, 100 enlisted members earned the chance to attend OTS and trade their stripes for gold bars as second lieutenants.

As part of the selection process, board members review both objective and subjective factors. Objectively, the board considers each applicant's academic discipline, grade point average and Air Force Officer Qualifying Test scores.
Subjectively, board members evaluate work experience, accomplishments, adaptability, character, leadership ability, potential for future growth and other recommendations. For active-duty enlisted members, performance reports and commanders' recommendations are also evaluated.

Three Air Force colonels review every application. The selection process is similar to an Air Force officer promotion board. No single factor leads to an individual's selection or non-selection, according to OTS selection officials.

People selected can expect to attend Basic Officer Training at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., in 2013.

For more information concerning OTS and the application process, active-duty members should contact their local education office; civilians should contact the nearest Air Force recruiter.

Military:
Abi Chaker, Zahi Y., Staff Sgt.
Adame, Daniel, Tech. Sgt.
Albarran, Jaime, Tech. Sgt.
Amos, Timothy S., Staff Sgt.
Applegate, Timothy J., Airman 1st Class
Arruda, Corey M., Tech. Sgt.
Bagby, Kara D., Tech. Sgt.
Beeman, Jacob L., Airman 1st Class
Bertrand, Joel S., Senior Airman
Billings, Ramah F., Tech. Sgt.
Bolduc, Matthew J., Tech. Sgt.
Boos, Brandie L., Tech. Sgt.
Brandt, Joseph H., Master Sgt.
Brifnek, Joshua M., Staff Sgt.
Brown, Alan G., Staff Sgt.
Byrd, Tonisha M., Tech. Sgt.
Caizza, Mark A., Tech. Sgt.
Campbell, Mitziehugh K., Tech. Sgt.
Carter, Joshua D., Staff Sgt.
Cazares, Michelle, Master Sgt.
Charles, Odale C., Senior Airman
Clemons, Christopher S., Tech. Sgt.
Colon, Edwin, Tech. Sgt.
Coon, David S., Tech. Sgt.
Crooks, Charles D., Tech. Sgt.
Dearco, Angelo J., Staff Sgt.
Diaz, Elionel, Senior Airman
Diddle, Alice K., Tech. Sgt.
Dietrich, William H., Senior Airman
Dillard, Douglas A., Staff Sgt.
Dobrow, Jeffrey S., Tech. Sgt.
Dockins, Casey L., Tech. Sgt.
Downey, Matthew J., Master Sgt.
Dutcher, Drew S., Staff Sgt.
Eppert, Alexandra J., Staff Sgt.
Galaz, Ryan A., Master Sgt.
Ghazali, Hammad H., Senior Airman
Gleason, Jennifer L., Tech. Sgt.
Gorham, Kelly A., Senior Airman
Grover, Joshua M., Tech. Sgt.
Guinn, Elizabeth R., Tech. Sgt.
Hammer, Daniel R., Staff Sgt.
Hanley, Robert J., Tech. Sgt.
Hardcastle, Christopher J., Senior Airman
Harmon, Mark E., Staff Sgt.
Hartline, Apryll C., Staff Sgt.
Hassan, Richard A., Staff Sgt.
Hayes, Corey J., Staff Sgt.
Hollister, Ryan A., Staff Sgt.
Jackson, Christopher S., Tech. Sgt.
Jetton, Justin M., Tech. Sgt.
Jones, Jeffrey A., Tech. Sgt.
Joos, David M., Airman 1st Class
Kakaley, Jeffrey J., Staff Sgt.
Kervin, Curtis K., Master Sgt.
Lampman, Joshua A., Tech. Sgt.
Lane, Rico E., Tech. Sgt.
Laplante, Jonathan R., Tech. Sgt.
Macias, Araceli, Senior Airman
Maldanado, Dinishia A., Tech. Sgt.
Marinelli, Vincent A., Tech. Sgt.
Marshall, Jonathan W., Tech. Sgt.
Marshall, William N., Tech. Sgt.
Mays, Marvin L., Tech. Sgt.
Mccraw, Daniel J., Staff Sgt.
Mccutcheon, Tara M., Tech. Sgt.
Mcgrath, Jonathan D., Tech. Sgt.
Mcgraw, Benajamin J., Senior Airman
Mcguire, Chadwick C., Senior Airman
Moore, Dari L., Tech. Sgt.
Ottulich, Ry L., Staff Sgt.
Pack, Frederick L., Tech. Sgt.
Palmer, Danielle C., Staff Sgt.
Parshall, Brandon K., Master Sgt.
Pillot, Katia Z., Senior Airman
Poe, Matthew A., Staff Sgt.
Quinn, Tyler K., Tech. Sgt.
Riascos, Nicholas D., Staff Sgt.
Romano, Pedro S., Tech. Sgt.
Ruddek, Charles L., Master Sgt.
Salter, Travis J., Senior Airman
Samatov, Abror B., Airman 1st Class
Scheisz, Keith J., Staff Sgt.
Sebey, Joseph Q., Tech. Sgt.
Smith, Christopher G., Tech. Sgt.
Smith, Kaion R., Tech. Sgt.
Smith, Marquis A., Senior Airman
St. Marie, Nicholas S., Staff Sgt.
Steenbergen, Gerrit M., Senior Airman
Taylor, Nathan M., Tech. Sgt.
Teague, Zachery B., Tech. Sgt.
Tennies, Tyler R., Staff Sgt.
Thoennes, Charles T., Senior Airman
Thogode, Joshua S., Tech. Sgt.
Voirol, Katherine J., Staff Sgt.
Welch, Matthew J., Senior Airman
Whitton, Daniel C., Staff Sgt.
Winningham, Joshua C., Staff Sgt.
Ylagan, Jason M., Tech. Sgt.
Yule, Emmett N., Airman 1st Class

Civilians:
Alexander, Corinne N.
Anderson, Brittany N.
Benedetti, Michael D.
Boland, Scott A.
Booker, Corey J.
Breedon, Donovan R.
Brock, Jordan M.
Brooks, Tyler D.
Brown, Elissa M.
Bruh, Justin M.
Brunski, Daniel B.
Buranich, Jason J.
Carroll, Jason C.
Cervantes, Omar B.
Chadman, Corey S.
Clark, Keri A.
Clarke, Justin N.
Cockroft, Brian J.
Collier, Richard G.
Cook, Daniel J.
Cooper, Matthew A.
Correa, Juan V.
Coward, Stefanie E.
Crouse, Jeremy L.
Cunningham, Nicholas L.
Davies, Jacob E.
Dennison, Paul P.
Diaz, Amy V.
Dilcox, Joseph A.
Dodge, Ryan S.
Doorbal, Christopher A.
Drazin, Danielle A.
Engle, Andrew E.
Evangelista, Kimberly H.
Faux, Andrew M.
Fernando, Michael A.
Fort, Luke R.
Foster, Russell A.
Fredell, Anne C.
Frye, Brett M.
Fung, Jennifer
Gallo, Joshua S.
Gerrard-Gough, Jessica A.
Gifford, Joshua P.
Golden, Serap
Griffin, Sounesa
Guidara, Elizabeth J.
Haertling, Beau S.
Harris, Sharif F.
Harris, Thomas J.
Harvey, Monica A.
Hays, Spenser C.
Heizer, Steven J.
Heller, Michael H.
Hightower, James E.
Hogan, Dallas C.
Homcha, Brent E.
Hunt, Spencer N.
Hunter, Megan L.
Irby, Robert E.
Johnson, Garrett E.
Johnson, Rande S.
Jones, Joshua B.
Jones, Reagan W.
Jones, Somer L.
Joslin, Samuel D.
Kamath, Venkatesh V.
Karr, Jeffrey C.
Kasper, Jennifer E.
Keates, Brittany A.
Kerr, Melinda D.
King, Joseph A.
Koebel, Sheila B.
Le, Tuyen H.
Leipf, Alexander A.
Lessig, Brian K.
Loewen, Aerial B.
Long, Melissa R.
Macintyre, Samantha S.
Manning, Kyle A.
Marshall, Antoine G.
Martin, Zachary S.
Mcclune, Mitchell J.
Mcelhaney, Matthew K.
Mcgee, Yulonda A.
Mcswane, Ryan D.
Meaux, Michael J.
Miller, Andrew J.
Miner, Lucas R.
Moore, Tyler M.
Munson, Thomas J.
Muscarella, Anthony J.
Neal, Terance K.
Neubauer, Marshal C.
Newman, Zachary D.
Nicholson, Mathew R.
Norton, Ashley B.
Oshea, Brandon M.
Pecora, Marissa K.
Piercy, Michael A.
Poole, Jonathan M.
Purtle, Nicholas R.
Quigney, Pamela D.
Reed, Heather A.
Rich, Sarah
Rider, Cassandra L.
Riser, Daniel A.
Rosenbury, Christopher A.
Ruden, Matthew R.
Santinizio, Leon G.
Schmitt, Carolyn M.
Shawcroft, Joseph G.
Shearer, Nathaniel F.
Singh, Bhupendra R.
Smith, Deborah C.
Solomovich, Stanislav
Spurgeon, Andrew E.
Stanley, Charles G.
Stapleton, Carla M.
Swalls, Clint A.
Talor, Jonathan J.
Tamurian, Zachary N.
Tankersley, Nicholas W.
Taylor, Jeremy R.
Tentler, Lindsay A.
Theis, Elspeth G.
Thomas, Jacob C.
Thorp, Ethan D.
Torrez, Neil A.
Trawick, Jesse A.
Trujillo, Juan T.
Tyler, Cory W.
Vaughn, Nicholas R.
Vella, Christopher E.
Villegas-Gonzalez, Enrique
Watson, Zakary R.
Welsh, Jonathan J.
Wertz, John N.
West, Austin L.
White, Cameron C.
White, Christian M.
Willis, Paula A.
Wittman, Courtney A.
Yates, Devon G.
Young, Jennifer L.

USO Programs Support Injured Troops, Families

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

MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 14, 2012 – The USO's continued support to America's wounded, ill and injured military members tops the list of services troops would like to see from the nonprofit organization, USO President Sloan D. Gibson said here yesterday.

Gibson is traveling with Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the annual USO holiday tour for overseas-stationed troops. The USO president said a survey conducted last year shows troops are most concerned about the care received by their wounded comrades.

“We just, in fact, did our fourth survey of troops and families all over the world,” Gibson said. “In the 2011 survey -- I don't have the data for the 2012 survey yet –- one of the things we ask every year is 'What's most important to you that the USO does?'

“For the first time, in 2011, the No. 1 thing on their list was taking care of wounded, ill and injured troops,” Gibson continued. “Keep in mind, only a very, very small percent of the people that were responding, had actually used any programs or facilities that we have.”

Gibson said the USO is doing “a lot of different things” to continue serving service members.

“We're building two of the largest USO centers anywhere in the world, [in the] Washington, D.C., area,” he said. “One in Fort Belvoir [in Virginia], is right on the brand-new medical campus down there. The other is at Bethesda [in Maryland] at the new Walter Reed location.”

The USO president said each of these facilities will be between 15 to 20,000 square feet and will serve as “focal points” for supporting wounded, ill and injured troops and their families.

“We've developed, and are delivering, an array of programs that are designed to help wounded, ill and injured troops sort of sustain their hope and instill confidence that they can achieve and have the fulfilling life that they always imagined,” Gibson said.

The object is to help keep families together and strong, he said, and to assist them in making plans for the future if they're going to leave the military.

“We want to make that transition a great transition; we want them to be as ready as they possibly can,” he said. “And we also want them to have a support network in place, so that after they're out, if things don't work out the way they expected, then they've got some resources to lean back on.”

Gibson said the USO sees this as “an important part of our work for an awful long time to come.”

“We call this overall effort Operation Enduring Care, and it's enduring for a reason,” he said. “Because we understand the long-term needs that [come after] 11 years of war. We want to be there.

“But we don't want to duplicate efforts,” Gibson continued. “Partnering is in our DNA -- the stars in the USO logo represent the six nonprofit organizations that [President] Franklin Roosevelt brought together almost 72 years ago to form the USO.”

Gibson also noted the USO works closely with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, which he described as “one of our great partners -- a best-in-class organization.”

“We do a lot of things for families of the fallen with TAPS, around the world,” he said.

Gibson said many people believe the USO only produces entertainment tours for service members.

“But frankly, while it's very important, it's still only a fraction of what the organization does,” he said.
The USO is about lifting the spirits of America's troops and their families, Gibson said.

“And making sure that we're constantly changing to be as relevant as we can,” he said, “to make sure we're meeting their most urgent and pressing needs.

Face of Defense: Airman Receives Harvard Scholarship

By Airman 1st Class Tom Brading
Joint Base Charleston

CHARLESTON, S.C., Dec. 14, 2012 – Air Force Staff Sgt. Katherine Lamb has received a full scholarship to Harvard University, which she’ll use to pursue a doctorate in chemistry in the fall after completing a successful six-year enlistment.


Click photo for screen-resolution image
Air Force Staff Sgt. Katherine Lamb, knowledge operations manager at the Naval Consolidated Brig at Joint Base Charleston, S.C., will pursue a doctorate in chemistry at Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass., in the fall after six years in the military. Lamb received her master’s degree in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, also in Cambridge. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tom Brading
  

(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
Lamb is a knowledge operations manager at the Naval Consolidated Brig on Joint Base Charleston here.

Harvard is located in Cambridge, Mass., and is the oldest institution for higher learning in the United States. Eight U.S. presidents, 75 Noble Prize winners and more than 60 living billionaires hold Harvard degrees.
Fellow troops say Lamb is revered throughout the brig for her intelligence, and she encourages and helps others to further their educations.

"Sergeant Lamb's vibrant and friendly personality can light up an entire room," said Master Sgt. Edward Phillips, the brig’s Air Force superintendent. "She is just a very positive and outgoing person."
Lamb said she learned the importance of education in Puerto Rico, where she was born. Her parents, who were born into poverty, moved to America seeking a better life when she was nine. Her mother went on to become a college professor, while her father works for NASA.

"My parents used to tell me, it doesn't matter if you have money," Lamb said. "You could lose money; you can never lose an education."
It was a message she took to heart.

Lamb is already familiar with the New England area. Years ago, she took her parents’ advice and received her master's degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

After graduating from MIT, Lamb said she felt a sense of pride and patriotism toward the country that offered her so many opportunities. She surprised her friends and family by enlisting in the Air Force.
"Everyone wonders, 'Why didn't you become an officer?’" Lamb said. "Well, life isn't about money. I was aware of officer programs, but for me, serving my country was enough reason to join. That's why I did, and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The enlisted men and women I've served with continue to do amazing things every day."

Lamb said serving her country and building relationships in the Air Force has been as beneficial as any college classroom.

"The Air Force is one team," she said. "College lifestyle, especially [in] an Ivy League-caliber institution, is very competitive -- people are constantly thinking about what's best for themselves. It's just the nature of how challenging those programs can be. But in the Air Force, although still challenging, I've learned how valuable teamwork is and I'll always carry those lessons with me."

Lamb gives back to the military every day by tutoring, mentoring and educating people throughout her squadron.

"She's constantly making sure I'm taking college classes," said Marine Chief Warrant Officer John Nolan, Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston security officer. "She inspires everyone to better themselves."

According to Lamb, hard work is the key to success, whether in testing for staff sergeant or applying to Harvard. Every test she successfully passed, she noted, came from hours of studying.

"Enlisted airmen are vital to the success of the Air Force mission," Lamb said. "Education is an essential tool for that success. So, when I see so many people bettering themselves by going to school, I think their stories are as compelling as mine. I'm just lucky to have such amazing and supportive people in my life."