Betty 'Tack' Blake: Only surving member of 1st WASP class

by Randy Roughton
Air Force News Service

3/10/2013 - FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (AFNS) -- Last year, a young female pilot recently showed her 91-year-old guest the F-16 Fighting Falcon she flies at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. She thanked Betty "Tack" Blake several times as she talked about her job, so Blake finally asked the young captain why she was thanking her.

"Because you started it," the captain said. "If you hadn't been successful, we wouldn't be doing what we're doing today."

Blake is believed to be the only living graduate of the first Women's Airforce Service Pilot training class during World War II. The class began with 38 women pilots on Nov. 16, 1942, but only 23 graduated on April 24, 1943. They weren't known as WASPs until the merging of the Women's Flying Training Detachment and Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron on Aug. 5, 1943.

"We were an experiment," said Blake, who now lives in Scottsdale, Ariz. "We were a guinea pig class, as they called us, because they didn't think women could learn to fly military planes."

Blake began flying at the age of 14 in 1934, and became even more interested in airplanes when she met Amelia Earhart at the University of Hawaii in January 1935. Earhart traveled to the islands in her quest to become the first pilot to solo the 2,408 miles across the Pacific Ocean between Honolulu and Oakland, Calif. Blake was the only child in the audience, so she was seated in the front row for Earhart's speech. Afterward, Earhart sat beside Blake and invited her to the airport to see the twin-engine Beechcraft she would be flying the following day.

"She was very excited to know I was learning to fly," Blake said. "She told me to keep going and do something exciting and show that women could fly. She had a lot of people fighting against her who didn't think women could do it."

Blake flew tourists around the Hawaiian Islands in an open-canopy biplane near where she grew up in Oahu before the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. She recalls the time as two different lives, before and after Dec. 7, 1941.

The night before the attack, she was invited by Navy ensigns to the officers club to celebrate her 21st birthday. The next morning, she watched the attack from the balcony of her family home on a hill above Pearl Harbor.

"My family didn't drink, so I'd never had a drink in my life," Blake said. "That was my first taste of liquor (at the party). The next morning, when Pearl Harbor happened, I was in bed with the worst hangover I ever had.

"My younger brothers woke me up, and we all went to the balcony of my house, and we watched all these planes coming over the mountain behind us going toward the ocean. When the planes went over us, they looked like AT-6 (Texans), but they were (Japanese Mitsubishi A6-M Zeroes). They had big orange suns painted on the bottom of their wings. Then, we saw them as they started diving toward the ocean in front of us. Their machine guns started going off, and you could see the bullets hitting the water and bouncing up.

"We had been having so much fun before Pearl Harbor. We were having fun every night, and suddenly it stopped."

Two ensigns Blake dated were killed at Pearl Harbor, and a third, who became her first husband several months later, also would have died if her father hadn't intervened. He had invited Robert Tackaberry to spend the night after the party so his daughter wouldn't have to drive him back to his ship at night.

"It saved his life," Blake said. "His cabin on the (USS) California was below the water line, and they dropped a bomb right in the water beside the ship. His roommate was asleep, and it killed him. So my father always reminded my future husband he'd saved his life."

Blake, who worked at Pearl Harbor as a secretary before she married Tackaberry, moved to the East Coast when he was reassigned to a ship in Erie, Penn. A couple of years later, she was selected for the first women's pilot training class in Houston, near Ellington Field.

Unlike the casual way women pilots are regarded today, Blake recalls a much different attitude during World War II. However, she had an advantage her fellow classmates didn't. She was already accustomed to getting along with men from growing up with two brothers in a neighborhood filled with boys.

"I got along fine with them because I'd grown up with boys," Blake said. "I knew how to joke, spit through my teeth and crack my jaws with them. That was very fortunate because some of the girls were in tears if a boy made a crack. I just joked back. They were always my pals.

"But a lot of the men were not happy having the women fly the same planes they were flying. They watched us like hawks, and if we did anything wrong, it was back at our base before we could get back."

After completing training, the graduates from the first class were given their choice of assignment and job. Blake chose ferry command at Long Beach, Calif., because she figured she'd be able to fly home to Honolulu. She never got the opportunity, but met her second husband, who was also assigned to Long Beach. Blake was part of a group of pilots who shuttled aircraft from factories to sites where they could be sent overseas. There was some discussion of using WASP pilots as co-pilots for overseas flights, but the war in Europe ended before it could happen.

"So, I didn't get checked out in a lot more planes that I would've liked to have flown because they brought all the men pilots back and didn't need us anymore," she said. "They gave us three days' notice, and it was, 'Goodbye, girls.'"

Blake ferried about 35 aircraft models, in addition to the AT-6 and others she flew in during training. But one airplane still remains her favorite even today.

"The P-51 (Mustang) was definitely my favorite," she said. "Whenever one goes overhead, and there are still a few of them flying around, I hear that sound and instantly know it's a P-51. It was reliable. I liked the engine, and I just felt safer in it than anything else."

Blake recently attended a funeral for the only other living graduate from the first WASP class, who also lived in the Phoenix area. The class of 1943 that was the source of the young Luke AFB pilot's gratitude is down to just one.

"Now I'm the only one left, and I hope I'm here for a while," Blake said.

Still Standing: The Story of SSG John Kriesel

The April 4, 2013, episode of American Heroes Radio features a conversation with retired Staff Sergeant John Kriesel, USA (ret.).

Program Date: April 4, 2013

Program Time: 1500 hours, PACIFIC

Topic: Still Standing: The Story of SSG John Kriesel

Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2013/04/04/still-standing-the-story-of-staff-sergeant-john-kriesel

About the Guest

Staff Sergeant John Kriesel, USA (ret.) “was nearly blown to shreds by a 200 pound roadside bomb in the parched sands of Iraq, but battlefield angels in army uniforms kept him breathing long enough to reach a field hospital.  He died three times and was shocked back to life.  Somehow he survived through four hospitals, 35 surgeries and months of recovery.  He lost both legs and suffered numerous other major injuries, but it was the loss of two close friends that hurt the most.

Four years after his near-death experience in Iraq, Kriesel became a civilian marketing employee with the Minnesota Army National Guard and in 2012 was named Director of Veterans Affairs for Anoka County. He also is a part time host on KFAN Sports Radio and former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives.  He was elected to the House in 2010 after a vigorous campaign where he was told a Republican could not win in his district, never had.  He personally visited several thousand homes in all weather conditions and literally wore out the socket in one of his prosthetic legs. He won. After tours of duty in Kosovo and Iraq and a lengthy medical recovery Kriesel’s two sons wanted to spend more time with him and he chose not to run for re-election.”  John Kriesel is a co-author of Still Standing: The Story of SSG John Kriesel.

According to the book description of Still Standing: The Story of SSG John Kriesel, “When SSG John Kriesel lost his legs and two buddies in a roadside bomb explosion, no one expected him to survive. He died three times on the operating table. Miracles, a lot of miracles, starting with a few grunts who refused to let him die in Iraq, ripped the young warrior from the grip of death and sent him on to four hospitals, thirty-five surgeries, and months of recovery and rehabilitation. Medical miracles put his body back together, but it was an incredible confluence of angels at every step along the way that breathed life into his shattered body.

This is not just another war story. This is the story of an ordinary young man who overcame extraordinary challenges with a lot of help from others, including many strangers and he emerged stronger and more in love with his country, his wife, his children, and ultimately, his own life.”

http://www.stillstandingstory.com/assets/images/stillstanding.jpg

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/still_standing.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/351067481670326

Naval Hospital Oak Harbor Uses 'Room of Horrors' to Promote Safety

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joan E. Jennings, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Whidbey Island

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Oak Harbor (NHOH) promoted Patient Safety Awareness Week (PSAW) at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, March 3-9.

According to the National Patient Safety Foundation (NPSF) website, npsf.org, Patient Safety Awareness Week is an annual education and awareness campaign for health care safety led by NPSF. Annually, health care organizations take part in the event by displaying the NPSF campaign logo and promotional materials within their organizations, which creates awareness in the community.

"This annual event emphasizes our constant need to make patient safety our number one priority," said Matthew Bowles, NHOH's patient safety specialist.

This year's theme for NPSF is Patient Safety 7/365: 7 days of recognition, 365 days of commitment of safe care, according to the npsf.org website. Their focus for 2013 is to recognize the advancements that have been made in patient safety as well as acknowledging the challenges that still exist, and to commit to working on them.

"This year we will be focusing on medication safety, patient falls prevention, and preventing infections," Bowles said.

Bowles said he helped create 'Room of Horrors' for the staff. It's a room for patient care that is filled with violations or mistakes that could harm a patient or put their privacy at risk. All staff members were invited to observe the room to find all the mistakes.

"The staff will have a better understanding of the importance of maintaining situational awareness when they are caring for patients," Bowles said. "It also reminds the staff that little mistakes can really add up to a nightmarish scenario."

According to Chantel L. Miller, NHOH's licensed practical nurse, the training has pinpointed several safety measures for patients that may get overlooked.

"Little things such as bed rails being up and your call light being within reach can make a huge impact on the patient," Miller said. "It's something I do all the time, and this training has made us stop and pay extra attention."

Bowles said NHOH is proud of their safety record, and they are continuously working to do even better.

"We have a number of programs in place to ensure patient safety, and our staff works to improve patient safety every day," Bowles said.

NHOH Commanding Officer Capt. Edward Simmer said patient safety is a 7/365 effort and it is the center of what NHOH does every day.

"Patient Safety Week gives us the opportunity to educate our community about how they can help us improve safety, and to recognize the many great initiatives by our staff to ensure we keep every patient safe, every time," Simmer said.

New York Air Guard Commander visits Hancock Field to present award to Lt. Col. Ed Cook

by Senior Airman Duane Morgan
174th Attack Wing

3/7/2013 - Hancock Field Air National Guard Base, Syracuse, New York  -- Maj. Gen. Verle L. Johnston, New York Air National Guard Commander, visited here on March 3, 2013 to present Lt. Col. Edward W. Cook Jr., Commander of the 174th Attack Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron, with the Colonel Governour Morris Citizen Soldier Award and to participate in a base-wide commander's call.

The Colonel Governour Morris Citizen Soldier Award is presented annually to a member of the New York State Organized Militia who has distinguished him or herself through outstanding support to the New York National Guard, his or her local community or the state of New York.

"It's extremely important that we're involved in our community," said Johnston. "And more so than the things Ed has done militarily, is the example he's been to all of us with his involvement in the community." 

Cook has been active for many years in the Salvation Army, Leadership Greater Syracuse and the CNY Political Leadership Institute. He is also a defensive driving instructor, soccer coach and volunteer firefighter.

Additionally, Cook has deployed seven times to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He most recently served as the Director of Logistics at the combined forces special operations component command in Afghanistan from August 2011- February 2012. For his service he was awarded the Joint Service Accommodation Medal and the Bronze Star Medal.

"When you're involved in your community, you strengthen your community, you strengthen your families and you strengthen individuals" said Johnston. "I just want to thank Ed for being a great example to us."

Johnston also took time to talk to the members of Hancock Field about the federal government's sequestration process and how it would affect the members in the future.  "Even though we are in a situation, things will somehow get resolved," said Johnston. "We hope this will have minimal impacts on the folks here at Hancock."

Finally, Johnston spoke about the good work that all the units at Hancock Field are going. "You guys are great. You are making a difference in the lives of American troops every single day.  Keep up the good work," said Johnston. "We're proud of you at state headquarters."

Women's roles evolve quickly following World War II

by Martha Lockwood
Air Force News Service

3/9/2013 - FORT MEADE, Md. (AFNS) -- Within the time span it took for women in television to transform from the female stereotypes portrayed on "I Love Lucy" to the more modern, late-century version found on "Murphy Brown," women in the U.S. Air Force were making strides that far outpaced their Hollywood counterparts.

By the end of World War II, women were fully incorporated into the military, although still primarily limited to mostly clerical roles such as typists, clerks and mail sorters, and represented only about two percent of the force. Less than a year after the Air Force became its own service, President Harry Truman signed the Women's Armed Services Integration Act, accepting women as a permanent part of the military. It was the beginning of the Women's Air Force, and for the next 30 years would represent a separate, but equal part of the military.

During the Korean War (1950-53), the only Air Force women permitted to serve in the Korean battle zone were medical air evacuation nurses. Servicewomen who had joined the Reserves following World War II, were involuntarily recalled to active duty as Women in the Air Force (WAF). Together, with already in-service WAFs, the women carried out support roles at rear-echelon bases in Japan. They were air traffic controllers, weather observers, radar operators and photo interpreters. Nurses served stateside, and flight nurses served in the Korean theater.

By the end of the Korean War (1953), 12,800 WAF officers and enlisted women were serving
worldwide, and in 1955, Air Force nurses experienced a moment of turnabout when men were accepted into the Air Force Nurse Corps.

These events would prove to be a harbinger of women's emerging equality in all aspects of military service. Yet, it would take two more decades and service in another war to achieve parity.

The Vietnam War (1965-75) numbers reveal a different story than the Korean War. American women military serving in Southeast Asia numbered 7,000, with 600 to 800 reported to be WAFs. However, although the numbers may vary, it is more interesting to note the solid achievements and the expanding role of women in the military that evolved during that time of intense service.

No longer thought of only as nurses or medical evacuation personnel, WAFs also served in a variety of support staff assignments, in hospitals, with MASH Units, in service clubs, in headquarters offices, intelligence, and a in variety of personnel positions throughout Southeast Asia.

With the 1967 repeal of the two-percent cap on the number of women serving, and the lifting of the restriction on the highest grade women could achieve, the first of many glass ceilings was shattered.

Then, in 1968 the passage of Public Law 90-130 allowed women to enlist in the Air National Guard, and on campuses in 1969, Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps (AFROTC) opened to women.

Perhaps the most notable (to date) women's accomplishment came in 1971 when Jeanne M. Holm was promoted to brigadier general. She was the first female airman to reach that rank. It was an achievement that would serve as inspiration for women throughout the WAFs for two years, until 1973, when she was promoted to major general.

It was that same year, 1973, that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Air Force Lt. Sharon Frontiero and changed military life forever. The Supreme Court ruled unconstitutional the inequities in benefits for the dependents of military women. Until then, military women with dependents were not authorized housing, nor were their dependents eligible for the benefits and privileges afforded the dependents of male military members, such as medical, commissary and post exchange benefits.

By the end of the Vietnam War (1975) the Department of Defense had reversed policies and provided pregnant women with the option of electing discharge or remaining on active duty. Previous policies had required women to be discharged if they became pregnant or if they adopted a child.

By the conclusion of the WAF program (1976) when women were accepted into the Air Force on an equal basis with men, women were laying a solid groundwork for attaining leadership positions and equal opportunities.

It was that year--our country's bicentennial--more than 200 years since women first served on the battlefield of the American Revolution as nurses, water bearers, cooks, laundresses and saboteurs--that women were admitted to the service academies.

After that, the sky was the limit. In 1976, the Air Force selected the first woman reservist for the undergraduate pilot training program, and the Air Force Strategic Air Command (SAC) assigned the first woman aircrew member to alert duty.

In 1980, the first women graduated from the service academies, and just two years after that (1982) the Air Force selected the first woman aviator for Test Pilot School.

Six Air Force women served as pilots, copilots and boom operators on the KC-135 and KC-10 tankers that refueled F-111Fs during the raid on Libya in 1986.

That year was a banner year academically for women as, for the first time in history, the Air Force Academy's top graduate was a woman.

The War in the Persian Gulf (1990-91) deployed 40,000 American military women during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. And at the end of that war, the Air Force Reserve selected its first woman senior advisor and Congress repealed laws banning women from flying in combat.

It wasn't until 1993 that women stood on the threshold of space. In that year, Lt. Gen. Susan J. Helms (then Maj. Helms) a member of the first class of the U. S. Air Force Academy ('80) to graduate women, became the first American military woman in space as part of the Space Shuttle Endeavor team.

By then, the Civil War had been over for 125 years and our nation had seen, endured, and survived two World Wars, the riots of the 60s, the war protests of the 70s, and the Space Shuttle Challenger setback of the 80s.

The best was yet to come.

(Martha Lockwood is the chief of Air Force Information Products for the Defense Media Activity)

Exemplary Airman saves life, earns city's recognition

by Eric M. White
910AW/PA

3/7/2013 - YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- In the early morning, you're driving through the city when you see two men pushing a stalled vehicle. You stop to see if they need help, and another vehicle strikes the two men against their car, fracturing one man's leg and severing the other's below the knee. The victim with the severed leg is bleeding profusely and showing signs of shock. What do you do?

The morning of Feb. 5, 2013, U.S. Air Force Reserve Senior Airman Steve Cresanto, an air transportation journeyman with Youngstown Air Reserve Station's 76th Aerial Port Squadron, was driving through the city when this scenario became reality, forcing him to make such decisions.

Jawkwan Rudolph, one of the victims, had the most serious injuries.

"His leg was amputated. You want to stop the hemorrhaging, so I applied a tourniquet," said Cresanto.

"I didn't have a tourniquet there, so I made one. I made the tourniquet out of the individual's belt and a windshield wiper from the car that struck them," said Cresanto.
Cresanto then fashioned a splint for the second victim's fractured leg using an ice scraper and another belt.

When first responders arrived at the scene of the accident, they asked Cresanto where he learned to do what he did, stating that his actions likely saved Rudolph's life. Cresanto credited the Self Aid Buddy Care (SABC) training he receives annually as an Air Force Reservist.

"We do it every single year, do the training, and I never thought I would actually use it in the field. It turns out I did, and I am glad I had the training," said Cresanto.

SABC training includes basic life support and limb-saving techniques to help injured persons survive until medical help arrives.

Charles Sammarone, Youngstown city mayor, presented Cresanto with an award on behalf of the city at a city council meeting March 6.

Detective/Sergeant Patricia Garcar, one of the first responders to the accident, recommended Cresanto for the award and presented at the council meeting her account of what unfolded the morning of the accident.

"I was just so impressed with what he did. He did not have to stop and didn't have to offer the assistance that he did, and it just amazed me," said Garcar.

Cresanto is one of more than 1,600 Citizen Airmen stationed at Youngstown Air Reserve Station who have answered the nation's call to fulfill the Air Force's core values of integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do.

"This is just another amazing example of the Airmen that we have here and the tie that we have to the community," said Col. James D. Dignan, 910th Airlift Wing commander. "There's a sense of family here at the 910th Airlift Wing."

Lt. Gen. William Etter takes over reins of First Air Force

from Courtesy story

3/8/2013 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- In a ceremony filled with traditions older than the Air Force itself, command of Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region-First Air Force (Air Forces Northern) changed Thursday afternoon in front of a formation of Airmen and distinguished guests.

During the ceremony, officiated by Gen. Charles Jacoby Jr., commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, Lt. Gen. William Etter assumed command from Lt. Gen. Stanley E. Clarke III. General Clarke is moving on to become the Director of the Air National Guard in Washington D.C.

"Lieutenant General Etter arrives at this command with a robust level of experience and he gets things done," Clarke said in parting remarks. "I can't think of a better officer to replace me here at CONR-1st Air Force."

During the ceremony Clarke was presented the Distinguished Service Medal.

Etter comes to Tyndall from the Pentagon, where he was the Assistant to the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff for National Guard Matters.

"This organization has three missions, three names, and I will wear nine hats as the commander," said Etter. "But this command is not one person; it is a team of Active, Guard, Reserve, Canadian Forces, and interagency partners and I am looking forward to working with all of you."

Etter also said he looks forward to continuing the strong bonds forged by Clarke between the CONR/AFNORTH and Tyndall families.

As the Joint Force Air Component Commander for NORAD and USNORTHCOM, the 1st Air Force commander is directly responsible for developing contingency plans and conducting full-spectrum U.S. Air Force air and space operations in the continental United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as over the maritime approaches to the United States. The organization is also responsible for providing Defense Support of Civil Authorities as the air component to USNORTHCOM. Additionally, the 601st Air & Space Operations Center falls under the 1st Air Force commander's direction, which plans, directs and assesses air and space operations for NORAD and USNORTHCOM.

Buckley, community partners unveil roadmap for future

by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Rau
460th Space Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2013 - AURORA, Colo. -- Following a year-long coordinated effort between Buckley Air Force Base and the local community, representatives unveiled the Master Plan for development March 4 at the Aurora City Building.

The plan is a vision for future growth and development of the base during the next 20 years, with great consideration for the benefit of the local community.

The Master Plan was a labor of military planning sessions, multiple community outreach events and good, old-fashioned hard work, according to Mark Gillem, urban planner with The Urban Collaborative who worked as a lead on the project. It molded the four Area Development Plans, or installation section-specific plans, into a single, focused goal for the future.

"The most important aspect was creating a clear vision," explained Gillem, who is also a professor at the University of Oregon. "We hosted a two-day workshop on base with almost 100 people showing up each day. Collaboratively, we worked together to build that vision and identify those areas we wanted to improve."

These initial vision workshops became the cornerstone that would lead to a successful planning process and a fully developed the plan, stated Joe Elms, Air Force Space Command community planner. Also, this project created a blueprint for other bases in AFSPC to follow.

"What we did at Buckley is the exact repeat of the process that we are going to put into place at all of our space command installations," Elms said. "It was an educational and empowering experience. Everybody on the installation is a stakeholder, and everybody's voice has equal volume in this process.

"We are going to start developing our installations in a more sustainable fashion," explained Elms. "We are going to (make buildings the right size for our mission), make our communities more workable and livable for the occupants, get away from the dependency on the automobile, become more dense, and use our resources more effectively."

Elms discussed that this transition from an auto park to campus-style installation would save money to those who serve on the base by reducing the cost of gas and maintenance, while creating a more livable and social community.

"This is going to positively impact the base," said Matthew Stewart, Michael Baker Corporation project manager and Master Plan consultant. "We wanted to go to a nice, green, walkable community that is sustainable. We picture Buckley becoming one of the most innovative bases in the continental United States."

Not only will the community reap the benefits of the Master Plan, but also the military members who serve at Buckley and its partner units, explained Lt. Col. William Smith, 140th Wing Colorado Air National Guard base civil engineer. The plan brought all units across all functional areas to march together in a common direction.

"We have a solid, vetted plan that is clearly the right answer for everyone involved," Smith said. "It has bulletproof planning. It has what we need."

As Buckley's Master Plan is implemented, Elms predicted the base may become "one of those famous installations that everyone wants to go to -- a place where you can live, work, shop and serve all in the same area."

Filipino survivors of a 2012 earthquake receive medical care during Operation Pacific Angel

by Senior Master Sgt. J.C. Woodring
Pacific Angel Public Affairs

3/8/2013 - DUMAGUETE, Philippines  -- U.S. servicemembers partnered with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to provide medical care for Filipino survivors of a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that devastated their town in 2012, as part of a humanitarian effort currently underway here through March 9.

Operation Pacific Angel-Philippines, a humanitarian medical and civil engineering mission that kicked off March 4 at five worksites throughout Negros Oriental Province, included approximately 55 U.S. servicemembers from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines, members of the AFP and several local non-governmental organizations.

"We are here to help, and we have all of the patients organized and coming in very orderly," said Capt. Eddie Donovan, a medical service corps officer from Osan Air Base, South Korea, who organized patient flow with Tolentino. "About half of the patients were seen here, and the others were taken to Dumaguete."

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines drove approximately 100 patients from a nearby mountain area that was hit hardest by the quake to the PACANGEL-Philippines medical sites for treatment March 6.

"That's what Pacific Angel is about," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Alvin Alana, Pacific Angel-Philippines mission commander from the Hawaii National Guard. "Within our resources, we want to care for those who need our help most. These families have lost a lot, and if we can make their life a little better, it is the right thing to do."

Since the earthquake hit the province in February 2012, the survivors have been without a medical clinic in their area.

"It is so important for them to be here that they rode in the AFP trucks for four hours just to make it," said AFP 2nd Lt. Ruth Zandra Tolentino, a nurse who assisted with patient flow . "They are so thankful for the medical treatment."

She came to Negros Oriental Province from a neighboring island to participate in the operation.

The added workload didn't seem to faze the team providing the care. Both of the medical sites provided primary, dental and optometry care, as well as physical therapy.

"There was always a Filipino doctor working alongside his American counterpart," said Master Sgt. Kimona Woodward, a medical administrator from Misawa Air Base, Japan. "It was good to see them team up like that."

Despite the obvious benefits for the patients who receive free health services, the caregivers benefit from it as well.

"The Filipino dentist deals with these types of cases all of the time, and he is fast," said Capt. Cherie Gabriel, a dentist from Yokota Air Base, Japan. "Helping them with their teeth really matters to them."

The patients who received treatment didn't hide their gratitude for the assistance.

"It was amazing how much reading glasses can make someone's day," said Staff Sgt. Dwain Tolvert, an optometry technician from Kadena Air Base, Japan.
The mission didn't go unnoticed by local government officials.

"We are very honored to have you here in Negros Oriental Province. You are making a difference throughout our province," said Roel R. Degamo, governor of Negros Oriental Province, during a meeting with Alana.

Alana joined his AFP counterpart, Col. Francisco M. Patrimonio, on regular visits to the sites and meetings with mayors of the cities closest to the sites.

Two of the sites provided medical care and three contain civil engineering programs to improve schools  in the area. 

Operation Pacific Angel is a U.S. Pacific Command humanitarian mission that sends primary care, dental, optometry and civil engineer experts to different countries each year to partner with their militaries and other non-governmental organizations. This marks the sixth year of the operation, and Pacific Angel-Philippines is the first trip of the year. It is scheduled to last through March 9.

Langley CES show their skills during fuel spill exercise

by Senior Airman Brittany Paerschke-O'Brien
633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2013 - LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. -- A bulk tank holding 500,000 gallons of fuel collapses, releasing more than 400,000 gallons over the northeast corner of the base. While the emergency response teams arrive on scene, fuel creeps dangerously close to the water's edge with every passing minute.

Fortunately, this extreme situation was only part of a fuel spill exercise at Langley Air Force Base,Va., Feb. 28. Exercises such as this help prepare first-responders in the event a real-world situation like this occurs.

The exercise began with a fuel-farm tank operator identifying the situation, evacuating the building and shutting down the electricity to the area around the spill. From there, firefighters and security forces were notified of the emergency and began arriving on scene to perform necessary containment procedures. For some of these responders, this is a time where training finally kicks in.

"I was a little nervous; my blood started flowing a little quicker," said Michael Mallozzi, 633rd Civil Engineering Squadron environmental quality assurance manager. "But as long as you know exactly what to do and you are prepared, the nerves go away. That's why we do things like this; so we are not scrambling trying to figure out what to do."

Once on scene, the incident commander set up a control center to map the area involving the spill. Meanwhile, security forces personnel established barriers and directed traffic to prevent congestion around the contaminated area.

The reaction of the emergency response team is critical to keep everyone safe because a situation like this actually could happen, said Mallozzi. Responders must be prepared and well-trained on procedures for a spill of this size in order to contain it before it reaches the water, due to its potential to reach the public, causing serious injury, he said.

Mallozzi also said that facilities that contain potential pollutants, such as the tank farm, must have mandatory spill and emergency plans so occupants can familiarize themselves and actively participate in the training.

"It's important to get this practice so if this incident does actually happen, we are not taken by surprise," said Airman 1st Class Jeremy Burnett, 633rd Civil Engineering Squadron firefighter. "The more exercises we do, the more we can be prepared for a real-life incident."

As the first-responders left the scene one-by-one, they could rest assured had this been a real-world situation, they would have taken appropriate steps to contain the spill and prevent further contamination.

Exercise brings joint team together for 'demanding' mission

by Maj. Michael Meridith
18th Air Force Public Affairs

3/8/2013 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill.  -- Hundreds of total force Mobility Airmen and nearly 20 aircraft participated in a Joint Operation Access Exercise alongside U.S. Army Soldiers and Canadian Forces service members at Pope Army Air Field, N.C., Feb. 22 through March 1.

JOAX prepares air mobility forces along with Army and Canadian paratroopers, to respond as part of the Global Response Force. The GRF is a joint force that can deploy on short notice anywhere in the world by land, air, or sea to conduct a variety of missions.

"JOAX is designed to enhance cohesiveness between U.S. Air Force, Army and allied personnel," said said Air Force mission commander Col. Paul Eberhart, 62nd Operations Group commander at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. "Training in a joint environment allows us to conduct operations that a single service would be unable to perform. I'm very happy with the way we came together and worked toward a common goal."

Exercise participants included Air Force C-130 Hercules, C-17 Globemaster IIIs, and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, crews, maintainers, security forces, contingency response Airmen, and tactical air control party members from bases across the country, in addition to Soldiers from the Army's 82nd Airborne Corps and Canada's 3rd Royal Canadian Regiment.

The Air Force team executed more than 125 sorties, dropping 5,800 troops and delivering more than 409 short tons of cargo with refueling aircraft providing more than 520 thousand gallons of fuel.

According to exercise planners, the joint team successfully met all of their training objectives and aided one brigade combat team in achieving jump currency while preparing another for an upcoming overseas deployment.

"JOAX allows the Air Force to train in one of our most demanding missions: large formation airdrop," said Harry Anson, lead planner at the 18th Air Force, which oversaw the Air Force contribution to the exercise. "By interacting and working closely with their joint partners, Airmen in JOAX are able to develop refinements to processes and procedures that can potentially enhance the effectiveness of real-world operations."

Eberhardt echoed those comments, noting that the success of JOAX sends a strong message about the capabilities the Air Force-Army team provides the nation.

"Large formation airdrop is essential to our national defense and it is important for us to exercise it. Only the United States has this incredible capability of rapidly introducing forces into hostile environments to conduct operations - whether combat or humanitarian support. It really illustrates the critical partnership between the mobility Air Forces, the joint team and our international partners."

Vampire Bats named Air Force's top air superiority squadron

by Airman 1st Class Brooke P. Doyle
18th Wing Public Affairs

3/5/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Gen. Herbert "Hawk" Carlisle, Pacific Air Forces commander, recently announced Kadena's 44th Fighter Squadron "Vampire Bats" as the winner of the Raytheon Trophy for 2012.

Awarded annually since 1953, the Raytheon trophy is awarded to the top air-superiority or air-defense squadron in the Air Force. Units are not only evaluated on operational mission performance, training and organization as a whole, but also individual achievements, awards and unit incentive programs.

The 44th FS closed out the year with more than 3,000 sorties, logging more than 5,000 hours of flying; and also provided air superiority for 11 countries across three continents.

"I would just like to thank all the Airmen for their professionalism, hard work and sacrifices that ultimately made this award possible," said Lt. Col. David Eaglin, 44th FS commander. "The 44th FS was deployed for over 290 days, and that kind of operation tempo can take a toll on our Airmen and their families. To their credit, no one ever complained. They just packed a bag, suited up and did what they were asked to do."

In 2012, the squadron did more for global United States' interests both at home and abroad than any other fighter squadron in the world.

The Vampire Bats re-wrote a joint and combined operational plan which is now being adopted verbatim by Allied Forces Central Europe. They also participated in two major contingency deployments, three flag-level exercises, six international training exercises, five operational readiness exercises and four international air shows.

"Whether flying from their forward-based home in the Pacific or protecting joint assets throughout the world, the Vampire Bats always delivered unparalleled air supremacy," said Lt. Gen. Stanley Kresge, Pacific Air Forces vice commander.

During the year, the squadron proved they were the best not only as a whole, but individually as well. Airmen from the 44th FS were awarded various awards: Bronze Star, Air medals, Air Force Commendation medals and Air Force Achievement medals.

"They have set themselves apart as dominant air superiority warriors," said Carlisle. "Their long legacy, from flying some of the first sorties on Dec. 7, 1941, to combat sorties in U.S. Central Command, have proved them worthy to join the long line of excellence that spans 57 years of Raytheon trophy competition."

C-130 maintainers keep 'em flying

by Staff Sgt. David Dobrydney
455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

3/8/2013 - BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan  -- Every day, Airmen from the 455th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron are performing essential repairs to C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.

C-130s generally spend a year here while crews rotate in and out.

Tech Sgt. Michael Raver, 455th AMXS dedicated crew chief, said that the crews currently deployed from Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., may be from different squadrons at home, but they're all a team out here.

"We all come together to do our thing," Raver said. "We're the system specialists, anything from changing tires to refueling to doing the everyday inspections."

While perhaps not as glamorous as the F-15 Eagle fighters Raver once worked on before cross-training to cargo aircraft, Raver found a certain charm in them. He said many of the aircraft earn themselves nicknames.

For example, he pointed to one C-130 and said it was dubbed 'Gizmo' after a character in the movie Gremlins, "because we're always chasing gremlins around it."

Raver said that because the C-130s are aging aircraft, each day presents a new challenge. Senior Airman Zach Pectol, 455th EAMXS crew chief, added that in a deployed environment those challenges take on an added urgency.

"You know there's a real mission to get done, it's not just a training mission," Pectol said, "so if something breaks you're on point to get [it fixed]."

On the other hand, both Raver and Pectol marveled at the versatile, 'go anywhere' nature of the C-130.

"Very rarely will these things not fly because of weather," Pectol said. "Just recently, we had a snowstorm and we wiped the snow off the plane, de-iced it, put heater cards on the prop[eller]s and [it] took off."

When he cross-trained, Raver found that just learning the details between the two airframes was the biggest challenge.

"The workload is about the same, the pace is a little slower on the heavy side," he said. However, he said when comparing the missions of dropping munitions to dropping cargo, "it can be just as satisfying."

AF civil engineer visits PRTC, commends progression

by Staff Sgt. Veronica McMahon
36th Wing Public Affairs

3/5/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  -- The U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer, Maj. Gen. Timothy Byers, visited the Pacific Regional Training Center as part of a joint-service tour at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 26 and 27.

The PRTC was a concept Byers was engaged in developing during his time as the PACAF Civil Engineer from 2003-2005, and has been one of Team Andersen's major civil engineer developments during the past decade.

"I knew it would take some years to build, but the PRTC is integral to the shift in the Pacific," the general said. "As we bring in RED HORSE, combat communications, Commando Warrior and the next Silver Flag, this expeditionary combat skills capability will help us focus on the Pacific. It will also help us work on tactics, techniques and procedures with allied nations which will help us build partnerships."

The PRTC is an integrated contingency response environment designed to enhance basic skill sets, as well as teach advanced tactics Airmen would not have encountered in technical school or at home stations.

"Out here we teach students expeditionary skills as they go downrange," said Capt. Nathaniel Lesher, 736th Security Forces Squadron Commando Warrior Flight officer in charge. "We are trying to make this look like the best regional training center there is."

Byers was accompanied by U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Kessler, Commander of Marine Corps Installations Command, and other Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy leadership. They toured multiple aspects of the PRTC and were briefed on the progress of the site since its inception.

The leaders experienced an interactive demonstration of the various training capabilities conducted at the PRTC by walking through a counter-improvised explosive device lane, watching a TTP demonstration and viewing weapons currently used at the facility.

Members of 554th RED HORSE Squadron are constantly working on improving the PRTC facilities. The Airmen of the 554th were able to show Byers how they conduct tilt-up construction. Byers said he was impressed by the PRTC's development and progress. He admires the capability of the Airmen and their ability to work together as a team.

"There's been great work ethic from 554th RED HORSE and 254th Air National Guard units," Byers said. "They've also integrated the Naval construction force and Army engineers to help build up the site."

Team Andersen's accomplishments did not go unnoticed. Byers praised the work ethic of Andersen Airmen throughout his tour and recognized several service members for their hard work and dedication.

"Look at the facility," said Byers. "Six years ago it was a jungle out there, and now, a mini city is standing. Their efforts are outstanding and I think it's going great."

The PRTC is an ongoing project that is the center for training Airmen from the Republic of Korea, Japan, Hawaii, Alaska and Guam and is responsible for training approximately 400 students, but will continue to grow as the training site expands.

"There has been a lot of progress so far but there is a ways to go before the site is complete," said 1st Lt. Ronda Underwood, 554th RHS section commander. "The idea is that it will be the focal point training site in the Pacific for Commando Warrior, which is already there operationally, and Silver Flag, which will be moving from Kadena Air Base in Japan."

According to Underwood the site will also be the future home for the 554th RHS, the 254th RED HORSE Air National Guard Unit and the 644th Combat Communications Squadron.

Virginia Air National Guard Achieves LCAP Excellence

by Master Sgt. Carlos J. Claudio
192 Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/5/2013 - Langley Air Force Base, Va. -- Airmen of the 192nd Fighter Wing Virginia Air National Guard and 1st Fighter Wing maintenance teams here scored an 'Excellent' 91.37 percent in the Air Combat Command Logistics Compliance Assessment Program assessment Feb. 8-13.

The LCAP provides leadership with an evaluation of a unit's ability to perform key logistics processes in a safe, standardized, repeatable and technically compliant manner.

"The LCAP inspectors validated what we already knew; the strength of the 1st and 192nd Fighter Wings Total Force Initiative relationship has resulted in the best maintenance organization in ACC," said Col. Robert Grey, Jr., 192nd Fighter Wing Maintenance Group commander. "We continue to develop strong working relationships and seamless integration between RegAF and ANG maintainers, capitalizing on the strengths both organizations bring to the fight. We strive to be the example for how well TFI can work.

The LCAP dates ran through the Virginia Guard's unit training assembly which is once a month. That allowed the majority of its part-time members an opportunity to participate in the evaluation.

"The leadership of the 192MXG couldn't be more proud of the performance of our full-time and part-time members," said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Bouley, 192nd Maintenance Group chief.

Since the beginning of TFI, each unit training assembly weekend operates like an Air Expeditionary Force rotation.

"Friday we operate with a predominant active duty force," said Bouley. "Saturday we swap 300 maintainers to drill status guardsmen and the maintenance machine never misses a beat. Sunday to Monday the process reverses."

Five 192nd MXG warriors were selected as 'superior performers' by the Logistics Compliance Assessment Team, further solidifying the 192nd FW's drive for perfection not only in higher headquarters inspection, but also in their daily maintenance performance.

Family practice physician earns Air Force medical award

by Staff Sgt. Maria Bowman
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2013 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Scott Air Force Base is home to the best company grade, family physician in the Air Force--Capt. Amanda Schaefer--who serves as a family health medical director.

She recently received the 2012 Air Force Medical Service Clinical Excellence Award.

"I enjoy the versatility of family medicine," Schaefer said. "I love my patients. Every patient is an individual with a unique story to tell. As a doctor, I love to fix problems.

"A big part of my job is patient education and guidance. I love that my job is always evolving and changing, which inspires me to a lifetime of learning and teaching."

The doctor has only been in the Air Force for two years, but she has already made the transition from a new service member to a key player in the 375th Medical Group. As medical director, she reviews the quality of all care provided by the clinic, supervises two physicians' assistants and is responsible for 3,150 patients.

On Tuesdays, she volunteers in the Belleville Family Practice Residency program, where she guides and educates the doctors who are working toward certification as family practice physicians.

Schaefer said her mother inspired her to become a doctor because she started college when she was a child and eventually became a family nurse practitioner.

"When I was 15, she opened a rural health clinic in a small town in Texas," she said. "I worked there summers and after school. It was truly an honor to become such an integral part of families and communities."

Some the other duties she has taken on include providing school physicals, peer audits, and helping launch the MiCare portal.

MiCare is a website that provides beneficiaries with tools and information that will eventually enable them to view and give input to their Personal Health Record. It also allows patients to send questions or requests for routine appointments to their health care team.

"MiCare breaks down barriers for communicating between patients and primary care teams," Schaefer said. "That is critical to providing good care."

Communication with her patients helps with providing good care.

"She has a sincere dedication to supporting the wellness of her patients," said Maj. Paul Schroth, Scott Family Health Clinic flight commander. "Her patient satisfaction ratings have remained consistently higher than 98 percent, which is difficult to achieve and even more difficult to sustain."

Working with Schaefer is a pleasure to other physicians at the clinic.

"Dr. Schaefer's leadership and efforts in Scott Family Health have helped the clinic to produce preventative health and continuity of care metrics that are among the best in the Air Force," said Col. Michelle Lavey, 375th Medical Operations Squadron commander. "She is innovative and energetic, and her enthusiasm is catching. You can see her reflection in almost everything the clinic does."

In addition to her work duties, Schaefer focuses on being a productive member of her community.

"I am active in my community, coaching a youth soccer team, helped raise $750,000 for charities and am working toward a cure for cancer," Schaefer said. "I also completed the Aerospace Medicine Primary Training course to become a flight surgeon."

While the doctor feels honored to receive this award, she gives credit to the people she works with.

"An award like this is never earned in a vacuum," Schaefer said. "I have an amazing support staff with the best nurses and medical technicians in the Air Force. This award is really theirs. It is a reflection of their professionalism, dedication and work ethic."

Commander Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to South Korea

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

WASHINGTON, March 7, 2013 – The top U.S. and United Nations commander in Korea today reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to South Korea’s defense and urged North Korea to cease provocative actions.

Army Gen. James D. Thurman, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, United Nations Command and Combined Forces Command, addressed a recent North Korean threat to nullify the 1953 armistice that ended open warfare on the Korean Peninsula.

“For 60 years, the armistice agreement has ensured peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula,” he said. “It concerns me when any signatory to a mutual agreement makes a public statement contrary to that agreement.
“As the UNC commander, I am charged to fully enforce the conditions of the armistice,” Thurman continued. “The success of the armistice has enabled the Republic of Korea to become a vibrant democracy, and we remain ready to defend the Republic of Korea.”

The United States calls on North Korea to refrain from additional provocative actions that would violate its international obligations and run counter to its commitments, the general added.

The latest provocations come on the heels of the U.N. Security Council agreeing to new sanctions after a third North Korean nuclear test last month.

Threats of provocations will only further isolate North Korea and undermine international efforts to ensure peace and stability in Northeast Asia, said Army Lt. Col. Cathy Wilkinson, a Pentagon spokeswoman. “The United States is firmly committed to the defense of the Republic of Korea and to the maintenance of regional peace and stability,” she added.

Wilkinson also noted that annual defense-oriented training exercises such as “Key Resolve” and “Foal Eagle” are designed to increase alliance readiness to defend South Korea, protect the region and maintain stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Survivor not taking gift of giving for granted

by Tech. Sgt. Jay Ponder
908th AW Public Affairs

3/7/2013 - Maxwell, AFB, AL -- When one experiences a traumatic life event, it can either strengthen or weaken personal resolve to face such an event's challenges and give hope and inspiration to others.

As Airmen of the 908th trained and took care of regular military requirements during the January UTA, few were aware of one Airman's overcoming one of life's greatest ordeals and her long journey back.

The LifeSouth blood mobile made one of its frequent stops at the 908th, and while many Airmen made donations, Senior Master Sgt. Martha Roy, a survivor of breast cancer, chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, hasn't been able to give for five years.

With an ear-to-ear grin, Roy expressed to LifeSouth technicians how happy she was to once again be allowed the privilege of donating blood, and speaking about the experience came easy for her while giving thanks for her recovery.

"I thank the Lord every day for the support and encouragement I have received from family and friends," she said.

There had been dark days to face in 2007 as she learned about her cancer, which had already robbed her of loved ones, and began treatments.
"My oldest sister had died of breast cancer in 1995 and my middle brother died of pancreatic cancer in 2005."

Knowing what was in store, Roy's husband Andrew knew it would be a team effort, and being retired, he would have the necessary time.
"It was a 'walk' we had to do together," he said.

"As I look back on when I was first diagnosed with cancer, it became a long road ahead of me that had to be walked," she explained, "Once it was confirmed I had cancer, I was immediately scheduled for various surgeries."

But the surgeries were just the beginning. Along with the surgeries came chemotherapy treatments and five years of having to take Arimidex, used to treat breast cancer by lowering estrogen hormone levels in an effort to shrink a tumor and slow its growth.

"Even though the medicine was necessary, it still had negative effects such as body aches and pains, upset stomach, weakness and thinning hair," she said.
"Throughout the whole thing, I asked myself if I would be able to overcome what she did," Andrew said. "But we're Christians __ all of our strength came from above."

Friends and family also provided encouragement and support.

The 30-year veteran of the Air Force and Air Force Reserve said she finally learned of her victory in December.

Roy is still facing obstacles to allow her body to heal, but she's feeling almost completely back to normal and has a positive attitude.

"I was overwhelmed with such joy and excitement," Roy summed up, "that I had finally crossed the finish line and the Lord gave me the strength to be victorious."
Now, she's back at her job with the 908th Force Support Squadron doing what she does best, staying in the thick of things.

And in regard to his wife donating blood as soon as she was able, Andrew said, "This is her way to help give back, but she could not until the Arimidex was over. What better thing to give than your blood if it's going to save someone else's life?"

So there she was sprawled out on the sofa seat of the blood mobile still grinning with happiness. The gift of life had been returned to her, and now, she can once again give a gift of life to others.

New Command value focuses on Airmen as innovators

by Carla Pampe
Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

3/7/2013 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- As Airmen at all levels continue to look for more efficient ways to do business, Air Force Global Strike Command has added a new command value focused on innovation.

The value, "Persistent innovation at all levels," directly ties to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force's idea of "every Airman an innovator."

In the newest Air Force Vision, released in January, Airmen are encouraged to look for ways to improve processes.

"Every Airman should constantly look for smarter ways to do business," the Vision states. "The person closest to the problem is often the one with the best solution. Leaders should empower Airmen to think creatively, find new solutions, and make decisions."

Lt. Gen. James Kowalski, AFGSC commander, believes reviewing processes and finding efficiencies is even more important in a time of fiscal austerity.

"In my mind, the biggest silver lining ... if there's a silver lining to all of this [the budget cuts], is that it creates an atmosphere where people are more willing to be innovative," he said. "They're more willing to listen to new ideas - different ideas on how to do things more efficiently."

"We put some processes in place to allow Airmen and supervisors to pass information up to us," Kowalski added. "Then we are working a lot of that with Headquarters Air Force ... to try to become a little smarter about how we're doing business."

In an example of innovation, Air Force Global Strike Command instituted a unique program called "Strike Now," to provide a means for Airmen and their supervisors to submit process improvement ideas directly to AFGSC Headquarters.

Through the program, any AFGSC Airman can submit an innovative idea that improves mission efficiency, effectiveness or readiness.

"Persistent innovation at all levels" joins the original seven values put in place when Air Force Global Strike Command stood up in 2009:

- Individual responsibility for mission success
- Critical self-assessment of our performance
- Uncompromising adherence to all directives
- Superior technical and weapons system expertise
- Pride in our nuclear heritage and mission
- Respect for the worth and dignity of every Airman
- Safety in all things large ... and small

With the addition of this value, the command continues to focus on building behaviors that, over time, become a culture, Kowalski said.

"Our Airmen are entrusted with the special trust and responsibility for the most powerful weapons in our nation's arsenal," he added. "By constantly looking for ways to do this better, we are continuing an Air Force culture of innovation and excellence."

Montana Citizen-Airman named senior enlisted advisor to chief, National Guard Bureau

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

3/7/2013 - ARLINGTON, Va. -- Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell Brush will be the next senior enlisted advisor to the chief of the National Guard Bureau, Army Gen. Frank Grass announced Wednesday.

Brush, currently the Montana Air National Guard's state command chief, will be the Bureau's fourth senior enlisted advisor, replacing Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall. She retires in June after three years serving in the highest position ever held by an enlisted woman in the U.S. armed forces.

The senior enlisted advisor advises Grass, who is also a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on all enlisted matters affecting the force, such as training, health and enlisted professional development.

"I'm honored to have this opportunity to represent the enlisted force," Brush said. "There is much that people are unaware of about the sacrifices that our Guard members make every single day: We are police officers, plumbers and teachers in our communities who make a seamless transition to Soldiers and Airmen when our states, territories or nation call."

Prior to assuming his current position in Montana, Brush served as 1st Air Force command chief at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida. A true Citizen-Airman, Brush has served as an officer in the City of Billings Police Department for more than 21 years.

He enlisted in February 1987, serving six years with Air Force security forces on the active-duty side before taking a break in service to pursue his civilian police career. He re-enlisted in the Montana Air National Guard after an 18-month break, again serving with security forces.

"We were fortunate to have a number of extremely qualified candidates," Grass said. "It speaks to the excellence and professionalism of our senior enlisted leaders in the states and territories. Chief Brush is going to provide outstanding advice at a critical time when we face fiscal constraints and changing missions.

"He also joins us at a crucial moment as we restructure the National Guard Bureau," Grass added. "It is important we continue to meet the enhanced responsibilities given us as a direct result of the performance of our Guard members since the Sept. 11 attacks."

Brush is married. His wife, Blaire, and he have three sons, Davis, Parker and Cooper.

"My family's been very supportive and they too bring a perspective as a Guard family that hopefully will benefit the enlisted force," Brush said. "All Guard families sacrifice so that our Citizen-Soldiers and -Airmen can perform their double duties as civilians and service members."

Chief Brush said he is looking forward to starting his new position in May and ensuring America's investment in the National Guard continues to pay dividends.

"One of my concerns as we work through sequestration is that we make deliberate, well-thought-out changes to our force, not lose the best and the brightest and not hollow out the force," he said. "It is critical that we not lose the extraordinary professionalism and capabilities that the National Guard has achieved in more than a decade of contributing to our nation's warfight."

Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Leonard was the first senior enlisted advisor. He was followed by Army Command Sgt. Maj. David Hudson, who served until Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall became the third advisor and the first drawn from the Air National Guard.

Alaska Reserve unit stands up Security Forces Squadron

by Capt. Ashley Conner
477th Fighter Group Public Affairs

3/6/2013 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The 477th Security Forces Flight reached a new milestone when it transitioned to a squadron under the 477th Fighter Group here March 1.

Once the squadron reaches fully operational capability in 2015 the squadron will deploy as a unit. Until then they will be supporting their active duty counterparts on JBER.

"We are currently working on implementing a plan for the 477th Security Forces to augment the 673rd Security Forces," said Master Sgt. Hiram Gunter, 477th SFS. "It is important for the Total Force Integration relationship that the Reserve unit is able to send highly qualified security forces members to step in and share the burden of securing this installation. "

During this phase when the squadron is transitioning from initial operating capability to full operational their main objectives are recruiting, training and preparing.

"We are running our Airmen through a simulated use of force scenarios in the Engagement Skill trainer, conducting field operations such as land navigation. All of these training opportunities will hone our skills and keep them sharp when we are called upon for real world missions," said Gunter.

Currently the squadron has 19 of its 54 positions manned and all are Traditional Reservists, meaning their military obligation would be one weekend a month and two weeks a year.

"The establishment of any military unit is an important event, but perhaps more so for a Reserve unit as we provide opportunities for Alaskans to serve our Nation and remain in Alaska," said Col. Tyler Otten, 477th Fighter Group commander. "Anyone who is separating from Active Duty, graduating high school or simply looking for a way to serve part-time as a Security Forces Specialist, we now have a security forces squadron added to our organization allowing you to serve where you live."

Special Operations Promote Global Partnership Capacity

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2013 – U.S. Special Operations Command’s commander today described to Capitol Hill legislators the importance of expanding global partnerships and training authorities over multiple years to continue meeting mission goals as the 2014 drawdown in Afghanistan nears.

“Our direction here as we push toward a vision for [special operations forces] 2020 is about building partner capacity,” Navy Adm. William H. McRaven said at the House Armed Services Committee defense authority review.

While there are a number of authorities that enable the command to engage in numerous joint capability, exercise and training programs, most are only one-year funding authorities, McRaven said.

“As you begin to build a partner’s capacity, you want … a five-year plan or a 10-year plan because it takes time to build capacity if you want to do it right,” he said.

McRaven noted successful partnerships with nations such as Colombia, where in 2002, special operations forces helped foil the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia—People’s Army.
Socom also seeks military construction funding to build training facilities and barracks that will aid longer-term capacity-building, he added.

The admiral noted that although about 85 percent of deployed special operations forces are currently in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, additional partnership-building capacity will be needed to fulfill new missions around the world.

“This is about strengthening our alliances, building our network … and my expectation is that I’ll be able to take that capacity coming out of Afghanistan and be able to push [it] to other combatant commanders,” McRaven said.