ANGRC leadership recognizes top performers, shares story of heroism

by Master Sergeant Marvin R. Preston
Air National Guard Readiness Center Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The Air National Guard Readiness Center recognized the outstanding work and accomplishments of their top performers during the 2nd Quarter Awards Ceremony and Commander's Call Aug. 14 at the ANGRC here.

The ceremony was hosted by Air Force Brig. Gen. Michael R. Taheri, the commander of the ANGRC, and focused on the accomplishments of the ANGRC staff.

"The ANGRC team has proven their dedication to defending the nation by leaning forward and accomplishing the mission every day," said Taheri.

The top performers for the 2nd quarter were:

● Civilian of the Quarter Category 1, Gloria Fernandez, Installations and Mission Support
● Civilian of the Quarter Category 3, James A. Guevara, Logistics
● Airman of the Quarter, Brittney S. Bankston, Air Reserve Personnel Center
● Non-Commissioned Officer of the Quarter, Technical Sgt. Kristin N. Schultz, Human Resources
● Senior NCO of the Quarter, Senior Master Sgt. Angel L. Luna, Logistics
● Company Grade Officer of the Quarter, Capt. Jessica R. Gruver Koefod, Air Operations
● Field Grade Officer of the Quarter, Maj. Drew D. Roper, Plans and Programs

Taheri also used the occasion to talk about Master Sgt. Michael Sears, an Explosive Ordinance Disposal technician assigned to the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard. Sears was recently awarded the Silver Star Medal, the nation's third-highest award for valor.

As part of a three-man EOD team, Sears was engaged with enemy forces September 29, 2012, in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, when a rocket-propelled grenade hit a Polish mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle and seriously injuring the driver. Leaving cover behind, Sears repeatedly sprinted 150 yards through enemy gunfire to direct his team in returning fire.

Sears fired more than 190 rounds from his M4 rifle, and is credited with saving the life and protecting the wounded Polish soldier, and protecting a Polish medic.

Taheri talked about how directorates at the ANGRC play a direct role in mission success through equipping, properly training and adequately funding ANG Airmen around the world.

"This is someone who clearly deserves the Silver Star, but I would tell you that you have a lot do with that," said Taheri. "At the end of the day, it's fundamentally the team here that resources the 105,400 and supports them in every way. I'm proud to know that it's this [ANGRC] team that stands behind and supports those people conducting those combat operations worldwide."

ANG paves way for Airman with eyes on the sky

by Tech. Sgt. Matt Hecht
177th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - Atlantic City, N.J. -- One Air Force Airman who normally works as a crew chief for high performance fighters had an opportunity this year to been seen high over the skies of Atlantic City Aug 13 during the 2014 "Thunder Over the Boardwalk" Air Show as a demonstration pilot.

Since Senior Airman Austin Daniel was 5 years old, he knew he wanted to fly.

"For his 5th birthday, all he wanted was for me to take him up," said Austin's father, Jeff Daniel, a former Air Force T-37 instructor pilot. "Once he was up in the air, he was hooked."

The junior Daniel began his flying career at 14, and at 16 had a base tour here at the 177th Fighter Wing.

"That tour was a huge influence," said Daniel. "I got to talk to a fighter pilot, and I asked him, what do I need to accomplish to do what you do? He told me to enlist in the Air National Guard, and that's exactly what I did when I graduated high school."

In 2009 Daniel graduated from Air Force Basic Training as well a technical training to become an Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft crew chief. At the same time, he had already gotten his commercial pilot's license and began flying with the Raiders Demonstration Team, based out of Lumberton.

"The Guard is the best opportunity in the military," said Daniel. "To have so many options, full-time, part-time, it's so flexible. I was able to work as a crew chief part-time, finish my college degree in Aviation Flight Technology, and fly!"

As a member of the Raiders, Daniel relies on skills he learned in the ANG.

"The Air National Guard was my first experience working in such a large organization, and the skills I learned as a crew chief, like aircraft systems management, have helped me out immensely as a pilot, and also as a team member," said Daniel. "Being a crew chief and flying as a demonstration pilot actually have a lot in common; there is a huge amount of trust and comradery in both."

At 23 years old, Daniels has accumulated an amazing 2,000 flight hours. While flying with the Raiders Demonstration Team as a solo pilot, he flies the Yak-52 aircraft, a hardy Russian-made training aircraft.

"It's a great aircraft, very fuel efficient and great in formation flying with basic aerobatic maneuvers," said Daniel.

Daniel recently achieved one of his goals: being hired by a regional airline as a pilot.

"He started flying with the Yak-52, a very complex aircraft," said his father Jeff. "It was a unique way to learn how to fly, and it translated well with flying crop dusters and now the airlines."

"Flying in shows like 'Thunder Over the Boardwalk' here in Atlantic City is exciting," said Daniel. "I used to be that kid, looking up at planes and getting inspired, and it's an honor that it's me up there inspiring kids today. Flying the AC air show feels great, it's real 'seat of the pants,' and it's a beautiful view!"

For the future, Daniel is still looking to the sky, hoping to one day fly fighters for the ANG.

CNIC Visits Guam, Addresses Service Members, Civilians

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Wilson, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- The commander of Navy Installations Command addressed service members and civilians during an all-hands call aboard Naval Base Guam Aug. 14.

Vice Adm. William D. French focused on four tenants outlined by Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, the chief of naval operations, during his brief. Specifically, continued dominance of the seas, cyber technology and security, the Navy's continued relationship with the Marine Corps and lastly the rebalance to the Pacific.

"The Navy and Marines, our relationship is strong here and will become stronger as we continue to move more Marines here to Guam from Okinawa," said French. "What is done is Guam is critical to what our posture is across the Navy and across all the services, and the missions that we execute in this part of the world. We could not do that without the support from here."

French said the military's support in Guam for homeported and visiting submarines as well as surface ships, the Marine buildup and the collaboration with the Air Force directly effects military operations spanning the western Pacific.

He also spoke about changes to military pay charts, uniform changes, water safety and new opportunities for Sailors wanting to serve at sea and Sailor resiliency, namely the quality of life for Sailors necessary to remain healthy and mission capable.

"The concept of resiliency deals with the challenges of life," said French. "This is how to eat healthier, how to avoid alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and this includes sexual assault prevention. We encourage folks to live their lives healthier to make the long-term health risks go down, feel better and be more effective at what you do. There are a lot of opportunities here. Continue to look out for shipmates."

French encouraged Sailors to leave the fence line and engage the culture of Guam, namely with the people and enjoy the family atmosphere of the island.

"There are great opportunities to enjoy this great place," said French. "Thank you for what you do every day to make this a better place. What you do in Guam is very important and the importance of this place will only grow with time as we bring more Marines, more Navy personnel and their families. Please do everything you can to feel a part of the wining team."

French reiterated that he was proud of the collaboration and cooperation between all the military services on Guam and the civilians who support the overall mission. He said the value of Guam is not only recognized by the Navy but by all departments that help govern.

US Ambassador to Uruguay Visits USS America at Sea

From USS America Public Affairs

USS AMERICA, At Sea (NNS) -- Forty high-ranking civilian and military officials from the South American nation of Uruguay visited the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) Aug. 13 to participate in a key leadership engagement.

Distinguished visitors included U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay, Julissa Reynoso; Deputy Chief of Mission, Brad Freden; members of the Uruguay House of Representatives and Senate Defense Committee; and three Uruguay military flag officers.

Once aboard, the guests were welcomed by Rear Adm. Frank L. Ponds, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, and America leadership.

"Our journey around South America has been about partnerships and engagements with our friends and our neighbors," said Ponds. "The United States and Uruguay have a long and meaningful relationship based on the shared values of fairness, respect, dignity and compassion; realized through a fair and transparent democratic process. Today reinforces the mutual commitment and cooperation we share as navies and nations in ensuring the security of our maritime commons; advancing peace keeping operations; addressing transnational threats and; carrying-out humanitarian relief and disaster relief missions."

America Sailors and embarked Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) South provided the distinguished visitors with a tour of the ship's vehicle stowage area, hangar bay, medical spaces and flight deck. During the tour, Marines showcased their humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) capabilities available on board, including their transportable lightweight water purification system.

"As a Navy and Marine Corps team, we must all be ready for unexpected humanitarian missions," said Lt. Col. George D. Hasseltine, commanding officer, SPMAGTF South. "Marines are able to bring incredible capability from the sea to on ground locations expeditiously. Just like our Uruguayan partners, humanitarian efforts are a priority for us, and we train and prepare for these types of missions daily."

Guests had an opportunity to walk through the ship's medical spaces as well and observe America's diverse medical and dental services, including two operating rooms, an intensive care unit, 23-bed ward and bed-surge capabilities.

"We have a highly-trained team of physicians and hospital corpsmen," said Lt. Cmdr. Jian Mei, America's senior medical officer. "America brings with it a robust medical capability. We can perform surgical procedures on board, and provide intensive care and post-surgical monitoring. Our digital x-ray allows us to take an x-ray and consult with doctors thousands of miles away. In the case of humanitarian missions, this ability is essential to ensure patients receive the best treatment available."

Following the tour, guests and shipboard leadership had lunch in the ship's wardroom, and participated in a presentation highlighting America's characteristics, capabilities and ability to support HADR efforts.

"America is an amphibious platform built for aviation-centric missions," said Capt. Robert A. Hall, Jr., America's commanding officer. "The additional space for aircraft, aviation maintenance and storage capacity built into this ship would enable us to remain on station longer to sustain Marine Corps operations ashore. Through flexible lift and air delivery, the Navy and Marines Corps team can provide quick relief along the coast or deeper inland in a humanitarian or disaster relief situation. America can also perform as a command and control center to help coordinate and ensure a unity of effort among partners. A focus area during our transit around South America is to help strengthen existing partnerships and to share lessons learned and experiences on how to best prepare and work together during these types of unforeseen events."

Prior to the guests' departure, shipboard leadership and distinguished visitors exchanged gifts as a sign of respect, cooperation and trust. U.S. Ambassador Reynoso expressed her gratitude for America's warm welcome and hospitality, especially with the ship continuing on her course south.

"I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to share this day with you," said Reynoso. "On behalf of the Embassy and our Uruguayan friends, I cannot express just how grateful we all are. I have family and friends in the U.S. military, so I truly understand the sacrifices these Sailors and Marines aboard make for their country. Events like today truly help build lasting relationships."

America is currently traveling through the U.S. Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility on her maiden transit, "America Visits the Americas". America is the first ship of its class, replacing the Tarawa-class of amphibious assault ships. As the next generation "big-deck" amphibious ship, America is optimized for aviation, capable of supporting current and future aircraft such as the MV-22 Osprey and the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter. The ship is scheduled to be ceremoniously commissioned Oct. 11 in San Francisco.

USS Peleliu Visits Guam

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin Knight, USS Peleliu Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu "Iron Nickel" (LHA 5), the U.S. Navy's only remaining LHA class ship, pulled into Guam for a four-day port visit, Aug. 15.

This marks the first time Peleliu has visited Guam since its 2010 deployment and the first port visit for any amphibious assault ship since the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) visited in 2012.

"Guam [has] a tourist based industry with lots to offer and I believe there is something to do for every Sailor," said Cmdr. Matthew Niedzwiecki, Peleliu's air boss. "'Boonie stomping,' which means hiking in the jungle, to some of the waterfalls is an island favorite and many of the hotels offer dinner shows highlighting the Pacific culture of the Marianas Islands. Every Sailor should expect to have a good time."

Peleliu Sailors will participate in numerous community relations projects (COMREL) and sporting events during their brief stay in Guam.

"Community relations projects help build, develop, and secure important relationships with the people of Guam that endure for years," said Cmdr. Jack Carver, Peleliu's protestant chaplain. "People are impressed upon watching warships pull into port. When they meet the people who operate and maintain the ship they are even more impressed. Community relations give the general public a personal example of the commitment and professionalism that characterizes the way Sailors approach their mission every day."

Carver added the Sailors who participate in the community relations projects will gain a rich understanding and appreciation for the history and culture of Guam.

"We want to return our appreciation for the gracious hospitality that the people of Guam will offer us throughout our port visit," said Carver.

In addition to these COMREL projects, Peleliu's sport teams, including volleyball, soccer, and men's basketball will compete against Guam-based U.S. military teams, as well as host nation clubs.

"Playing sports against locals in foreign ports is great for many reasons," said Lucas Eckstein, Peleliu's fun boss. "It gives Sailors an opportunity to get exercise in other ways than just running on a treadmill or biking on the ship's gym. It's also great for international relations. Playing sports against someone who may not speak the same language as you offers a unique opportunity to forge a connection without speaking a word."

Peleliu's Sailors, most of whom have never visited Guam, will have the opportunity to visit an island rich in local and U.S. military history.

"Guam is fantastic port call for those that enjoy the outdoors," said Niedzwiecki. "I was stationed here for three years and my wife and I enjoyed snorkeling, diving, and hiking. In addition, the Chamorros are very friendly and love to tell you about the island heritage. Hafa adai ["hello" in Chamorro, the native language of Guam and the islands of the Northern Marianas] and welcome to Guam, "where America's day begins."

Peleliu is underway conducting a scheduled Western Pacific deployment after successfully completing Rim of the Pacific exercise 2014, in and around the Hawaiian Islands.

Citizen Airman aided in her drive for excellence

by 1st Lt. Jeff Kelly
442d Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Sixty miles is a long way to walk.

Senior Airman Thelma Smith had few other options to make the trip from her parents' home in Grandview Missouri., to Whiteman Air Force Base for her weekend commitments with the Air Force Reserve. That changed Aug. 8.

A recent divorce and a car with serious mechanical problems left Smith, a member of the 442d Fighter Wing Force Support Squadron, without transportation for months. She was forced to rely on her family, friends and even a few rental cars to fulfill her reserve commitment, get to her civilian job each day and to accomplish the day-to-day tasks required of a single mother.

But fortune smiled on this Citizen Airman when she received a refurbished 2001 Ford Explorer from an organization called "Cars 4 Heroes" at an event held at the Bi-Lo Country Mart in Warrensburg.

Smith was in tears as she received a hug and her new car keys from program founder Terry "Car Santa" Franz. A crowd of local citizens and members of her reserve wing applauded as she sat in her new vehicle for the first time.

"One drill weekend, she called me to ask if she could stay on base so she wouldn't have to spend as much money in gas for her rental car," said Senior Master Sgt. Travis Stickels, 442nd FSS Services superintendent. "This caught my attention and after talking with her I realized the desperate need she had for her own vehicle. She is such a tough and determined person that she never complained about her situation to anyone. We had no idea she was jumping through all these hoops to live up to her reserve commitment and to simply make ends meet in her civilian life."

Smith rented a car for three consecutive months to get back and forth from her parents' home in Grandview, where she lives, to make the trip to her reserve job during weekend unit training assemblies. The drive from Grandview to Whiteman Air Force Base takes roughly one hour.

Stickels received an e-mail from the Cars 4 Heroes program only a few days before he learned of Smith's situation.

"Sergeant Stickels told me about this program," Smith said. "That's how I got here today. I'm so thankful."

Smith, a reservists for six years now, has a 3-year-old daughter and is pregnant with another child due in September.

"I'm going to be able to keep the civilian job that I love because of this," Smith said. "I'm going to be able to support my two girls because of this. My family has been there the whole time for me through all of this but now having this car will help me so much."

In her application, Smith said she desperately needed the car to get to her "dream job" with the Community Blood Center, a position she has held since June 9. Smith's father had been taking her to work every day but now has a job opportunity of his own that means she would have to find another source of transportation to work, day care and appointments, she said.

Franz said that when he notified Smith that his organization was going to be able to help her and that she would be receiving a car, he immediately knew that the Cars 4 Heroes organization had made the right choice in choosing her as a recipient.

"I'm not fixing anyone's life," said Franz. "I'm just giving them a tool to get back on their feet. I do this for our veterans because they deserve it. You can feel the stress come off people when you can do something like this for them. But there is a little selfishness for me to do this too. It's just plain fun."

The program started as "Cars for Christmas" more than 20 years ago, Franz said, a giveaway that was open to any deserving person. But after meeting an injured Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, Franz said the organization focused solely on helping veterans in need and has been donating cars to veterans weekly for the last nine years. All of the cars used by the organization are donated by people who want them to be used for a good cause, Franz said.

"She has been through a lot in the last year," Stickels said. "But she is on the up-swing now and this just tops everything. This could not have gone to a more deserving person. It's good to see when great things happen to great people. She loves helping others and it is great to see someone reach out to help her."

Smith's appreciation was evident in her smile and in the thanks she gave to everyone involved in the event.

"It still doesn't seem real but I'm so glad that it is," said Smith. "I'm so thankful. I've been given a fresh start."

5th BW celebrates 95 years

by Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Today marks the 95th Anniversary of the 5th Bomb Wing. Originally activated August 15, 1919 as the 2nd Observation Group at Luke Field in the Territory of Hawaii, the men and women of the 5th BW have seen action in WWII and Operations Desert Fox, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, to name a few.

It was just 16 years after the Wright Brothers' first 12-second flight when the men assigned to the newly designated 5th Bombardment Group were practicing bombing, navigation, tracking and aerial gunnery training missions. Using the NBS-1 short-range night bomber and the DH-4 light bomber, aviation had come a long way.

Throughout the 1930s, they performed various services for the Territorial Forestry Division in Hawaii. Completing tasks like sowing seeds from the air or dropping supplies and equipment, one of the biggest accomplishments came in 1935, when they saved a city from a volcanic eruption. Using the B-12 bomber to bomb the lava flow, they diverted it to an unpopulated area, leaving the city of Hilo unharmed.

During the '40s, the 5th BG became a more critical part of the nation's security. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, the first aircrews to take flight were from the 5th BG. Presumably using the B-17, two volunteer crews searched for the Japanese task force who had destroyed so much of the Pacific Fleet and Hawaiian Air Force.

Throughout World War II, the 5th BG played a vital role. Raiding enemy bases, supporting ground forces and damaging several Japanese ships, the group received two Distinguished Unit Citations for its efforts. By March of 1945, the 5th BG had moved to Samar, Philippine Islands and in early 1947 was redesignated as the 5th Reconnaissance Group. Their mission was to engage in the Post Hostilities Mapping Program under the auspices of the 13th Air Force. Their aircraft now included B-17s, F-2s, F-9s, F-13s, RB-29s, L-5s and helicopters.

While flying reconnaissance missions over Korea and Puerto Rico during the summer of 1950, the group was informed it would be converting to the RB-36 Peacemaker, and was again redesignated as the 5th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing on November 14, 1950. They received their first RB-36 in January of 1951, and began probing Soviet Union borders to determine their air defense capability. The Air Force was able to draw up war plans based on its discoveries.

The 5th Bombardment Wing stood up in October of 1955 and received its first B-52 Stratofortress February 13, 1959. In an effort to make it more difficult for the Soviet Union to destroy an entire fleet with one attack, the B-52s were dispersed over a larger number of bases.

The '60s marked a busy time for the 5th BW, as half of the wing's aircraft were maintained on alert status, fully fueled and ready for combat. Minot's very on 23rd Bombardment Squadron saw combat during the Vietnam War, attacking targets in Southeast Asia.

In 1965 then Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara directed a phaseout of a portion of the B-52 force, resulting in terminating the wing at Travis AFB. In order to preserve the unit, the wing moved to Minot Air Force Base, N.D. on July 25, 1968, and began flying the B-52H Stratofortress.

After 35 years, the wing pulled its aircrafts from constant alert status in the final days of the cold war in 1991. Following the activation of Air Combat Command, the 5th Wing became the 5th Bomb Wing on June 1, 1992.

More recently, the 5th BW saw combat in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Fox in 1998, attacked targets in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2001 and flew more than 120 combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Today, the 5th BW is home to 26 B-52s and around 4,500 Airmen. Representing one leg of the nuclear triad, the wing embodies our nation's ability to deter our adversaries and assure our allies. The Airmen of the 5th BW are capable of flying anywhere around the world and stand ready to deliver a wide range of munitions. After 95 years of faithful service, the 5th BW still remains the guardian of the upper realms.

Tyndall's mission gets Jazzed up

by Airman 1st Class Alex Echols
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  -- More than 230 Team Tyndall members, 14 F-22 Raptors, eight T-38 Talons and approximately 30,000 pounds of cargo deployed to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans last month to complete training for what turned out to be a record-breaking deployment for 325th Fighter Wing.

The 325th FW's mission is to train and project unrivaled combat power. Six units in the 325th Fighter Wing deployed more aircraft and personnel, conducted more sorties and completed more F-22 basic-course training than ever before.

Twelve 43rd Fighter Squadron student pilots were able to complete 182 flying missions, or sorties, accomplishing three weeks' worth of training in just two weeks.

"This was a highly successful deployment," said Lt. Col. Bill Creeden, 43rd FS commander. "Our mission there was to complete an eight-month training course for a record-size class, culminating in full mission scenarios referred to as Air Combat Tactics, while also practicing baseline readiness skills for all of Team Tyndall."

The Louisiana Air National Guard's 159th Fighter Wing hosted Team Tyndall. At NAS JRB New Orleans, the students were able to fly with and against F-15 Eagles, T-38 Talons, B-52 Stratofortress', E-3 Sentrys, AC-130 Gunships and KC-135 Stratotankers, which vastly supported the requirements necessary to finish their training, said Creeden.

"The benefit you gain by taking your unit to, and operating from an unfamiliar location is exponential," said Creeden. "Executing your mission in a disparate and dynamic environment increases a unit's overall ability and confidence taking you out of the normal day to day way of doing business."

This could not have happened without the combined efforts of 234 total personnel from the 43rd FS, the 43rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit, the soon to be 2nd Fighter Training Squadron, the 325th Maintenance Squadron, the 325th Maintenance Group and the 325th Security Forces Squadron. The 325th Logistics Readiness Squadron also played a vital role in deploying and redeploying all of the personnel and cargo, said Creeden.

The 43rd AMU and 325th MXS were crucial to making this mission happen.

"Without maintainers, pilots don't fly," said Capt. Byron Silkett-Irvine, 43rd AMU officer in charge. "Our role was to ensure our aircraft were fixed, inspected and ready to go each day. This was another example of the 43rd AMU and the 325th MXS coming through for the 43rd FS in a remote location."

During last year's deployment, the 43rd FS was only able to complete 96 of its planned sorties, said Silkett-Irvine. This year, that number almost doubled. This was largely due to the fact that no sortie went uncompleted due to a maintenance issue.

"This was by far the most successful TDY that the 43rd AMU has ever put on, and the numbers support that," said Silkett-Irvine.

"I have never been around an AMU that has the morale, drive and desire to succeed as evident by the maintainers of the 43rd AMU, and it was evident out there," said Creeden.

The 325th Operations Group Adversary Air Squadron, which will become the 2nd FTS on Aug. 22, provided T-38s to act as additional adversaries to engage alongside the NAS JRB New Orleans' squadrons.

"We provided six adversary aircraft both morning and afternoon each day to enable 43rd fighter squadron student training," said Lt. Col. Derek Wyler, 325th OG Adversary Air Squadron commander. "We integrated with F-15s from New Orleans to provide a robust adversary capability, and once again demonstrated the ability to go on the road to support the 43rd FS or the 95th Fighter Squadron, providing the same world class threat replication that we do at home."

Each of these components came together to deliver top-notch training necessary to graduate eight new F-22 pilots to the Combat Air Force.

AWACS upgrade achieves initial operational capability

by Darren D. Heusel
Tinker Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - Tinker Public Affairs -- The Commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. Mike Hostage, declared Initial Operational Capability for the 552nd Air Control Wing's E-3G "Sentry" Airborne Warning and Control System Block 40/45 aircraft July 28 here.

"This modification represents the most significant upgrade in the 35-plus year history of the E-3 AWACS and greatly enhances our crewmembers' ability to execute the command and control mission while providing a building block for future upgrades," said Col. Jay R. Bickley, 552nd ACW commander.

Colonel Bickley said meeting this milestone is a testament to outstanding teamwork as evidenced with the great partnership enjoyed between the 552nd ACW, ACC, the AWACS System Program Office, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex and the wing's contracting partners.

Gordon Fitzgerald, the 552nd ACW's director for Requirements, said six Block 40/45 modified aircraft have been delivered to the 552nd ACW and two of the E-3G models have been successfully deployed in support of counterdrug operations.

He went on to say the wing has Block 40/45 specific parts, support equipment and technical data on hand. The wing has also completed initial training and initiated a structured plan for ongoing training.

"We are confident we can deploy and support this important weapon system worldwide," Mr. Fitzgerald added.

Brig. Gen. Gene Kirkland, OC-ALC commander, said the complex workforce is proud to be part of an important operational milestone.

General Kirkland said there is still much left to do to give the 552nd ACW more 40/45 capable platforms.

Colonel Bickley praised the many members of the AWACS team who made the milestone possible, adding, "This is a great asset for U.S. command and control and a milestone we can all be proud to be a part of."

The 552nd ACW is home to the E-3, with 27 of the fleet's 31 AWACS aircraft being housed at Tinker Air Force Base. Of the remaining four aircraft, two are stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan, and two are at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska.

According to Mr. Fitzgerald, the entire fleet of E-3 aircraft will be upgraded by FY 2020.
Known for its signature black-and-white rotating radar dome that sits on top of the aircraft, the E-3 Sentry provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by commanders of U.S., NATO and other allied air defense forces.

In support of air-to-ground operations, the Sentry can provide direct information needed for interdiction, reconnaissance, airlift and close-air support for friendly ground forces. It can also provide information for commanders of air operations to gain and maintain control of the air battle.

As an air defense system, E-3s can detect, identify and track airborne enemy forces far from the boundaries of the U.S. or NATO countries. It can direct fighter-interceptor aircraft to enemy targets. The E-3 Sentry is designed to respond quickly and effectively to a crisis and support worldwide military deployment operations.

With its mobility as an airborne warning and control system, the Sentry has a greater chance of surviving in warfare than a fixed, ground-based radar system. Among other things, the flight path can quickly be changed according to mission and survival requirements. The E-3 can fly a mission profile for more than eight hours without refueling. Its range and on-station time can be increased through in-flight refueling and the use of an onboard crew rest area.

The 552nd ACW has had a continuing presence in the Middle East, flying over 14,000 sorties and logging more than 130,000 flying hours from 1980 to 2003. In 2003, the wing returned to Tinker AFB for a break in deployment. The break didn't last long. In early 2007, the wing returned and reestablished its presence in the region.

Buckley hosts IRR muster

by Tech. Sgt. Rob Hazelett
Air Reserve Personnel Center

8/15/2014 - BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Buckley Air Force Base held an Air Force Individual Ready Reserve muster screening here Aug. 7. IRR musters are mandatory formations hosted by a Total Force Air Force installation commander and conducted at active duty, Guard and Reserve installations.

Selected IRR members attending the one-day event received informational briefings on readiness and personnel accountability.

Members also benefited from taking advantage of a face-to-face opportunity to verify and update their contact and medical information, thereby increasing the timeliness and efficiency in ARPC's ability to contact the IRR in the event of mobilization.

The screening program strives to enhance readiness, boost combat capability and streamline reporting procedures in the event of a call-up. The musters not only help to enhance the readiness and reporting of the pre-trained individual manpower population, but have been an effective tool in recruiting trained assets and exposing IRR members to an array of career opportunities.

Additional objectives of the IRR muster program are to verify and update personal data on each member; ensure Air Force compliance with legal responsibilities for IRR screening; ensure availability and maintain readiness of IRR members for mobilization; determine skill proficiency degradation and evaluate the need for refresher training to maintain minimum proficiency of IRR members.

Red Flag-Alaska keeps training relevant to flyers, maintainers

by Air Force Staff Sgt. Blake Mize
JBER Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Although the way wars are fought has changed dramatically over the years, and fighter aircraft are not always used as much as they once were, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh has stressed that training opportunities such as Red Flag-Alaska will be integral to the development of the force moving forward.

RF-A is meant to put pilots in combat situations and ensure their ability to thrive in such situations. Red Flag officials say Alaska's vast airspace provides the perfect
training area to refine those capabilities.

"The Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Complex airspace allows aircraft to practice tasks that cannot be accomplished in other areas," said Air Force Lt. Col. Dylan Baumgartner, commander of the 353rd Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 1, out of Eielson Air Force Base. "The large volume of sky and lack of population throughout most of the range space allows for full use of aircraft capabilities, such as extended supersonic flight, which isn't available in most training areas.

"Red Flag-Alaska has a focus on the Pacific theater and many allies and partner nations come here to train with their U.S. counterparts," Baumgartner continued.
"This will support the U.S. pivot to the Pacific theater and allow the U.S. and its allies to operate more effectively together."

RF-A is a joint/coalition, tactical air combat employment exercise, which often involves several units whose military mission may differ significantly from those of other participating units.

Originally named COPE THUNDER, it moved to Alaska from Clark Air Base, Philippines in 1992 after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo forced the curtailment of operations there. COPE THUNDER was re-designated Red Flag-Alaska in 2006.

"Red Flag [then COPE THUNDER] was developed after the Vietnam war to increase the lethality and survivability of crews in combat," Baumgartner said.

"Historically, aircrews are most vulnerable to being shot down during their first 10 combat missions - a truism which dates to World War I and the beginning of air combat. Red Flag is designed to provide crews with their first 10 simulated combat sorties in a challenging yet controlled environment, which allows them to make mistakes in training which would have killed them in combat."

This training is a beneficial experience for newer pilots and maintainers who are seeing their first "combat," Baumgartner said, but that is also true for those who will lead them into battle.

"It trains not only the newest aircrew, as originally designed, but also provides a challenging environment for training mission commanders, who are certified to lead large formations of aircraft into combat," he said. "RF-A provides a venue for planning, executing and debriefing large-force exercises to train new mission commanders."

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base team to host RF-A four times a year and each installation brings unique capabilities that contribute to the training.
"The 18th Aggressor Squadron [from Eielson] provides realistic enemy replication using specially trained pilots and controllers," Baumgartner said. "They simulate a variety of enemy aircraft using uniquely painted F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. The 353rd Combat Training Squadron and Detachment 1, 354th Operations Group (JBER) provide exercise planning and execution support as well as operate the land-based threat systems and maintain the targets on the respective bombing ranges."

In addition to the Alaska units, Air Force units from all over the world participate. All four U.S. military branches are represented and a varying number of international allies take part in the quarterly training.

"In this RF-A [14-3], the U.S. and Australia are the participating nations, but typically we see approximately 16 nations during four exercises throughout the year," Baumgartner said. "All four U.S. services are participating. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aircraft are flying along with U.S. Air Force aircraft. U.S. Army personnel are involved in operations in and around Eielson and Fort Greeley, Alaska in the landing zones and bombing ranges contained in the JPARC."

C-17 division leadership transitions from Wright-Patt to Robins

by Jenny Gordon
78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/8/2014 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The C-17 System Program Office here has experienced another milestone with the recent transition of division leadership from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

Col. Amanda Myers has assumed leadership as the Air Force's C-17 system program director, a position which is now based at Robins as part of a series of moves which began in 2009.

While Wright-Patterson will maintain capabilities development and the chief financial officer position, Robins will continue to focus on C-17 sustainment.

The C-17 system program office transition here is estimated to be completed by 2016, with the potential to include an additional 80 to 95 personnel.

The division, which includes foreign military sales and Boeing representatives, could grow to a total workforce of about 350.

Col. John Newberry, deputy program executive officer for Air Force Mobility Programs with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at WPAFB spoke highly of the accomplishments of the program and how it has evolved from its initial concept in the late 1970s to its full inception into the Air Force's mobility fleet.

"This is an exciting time for the C-17 program as we enter into the next chapter with the transfer of leadership to Robins," he said. "Col. Myers has the skills needed to oversee the continued sustainment and modernization of the C-17 fleet."

The previous construct was split between two senior materiel leaders, and consisted of the system program director -- recently retired Col. Andrew Ingram who was stationed at WPAFB -- and the outgoing system support manager Col. David Morgan.

The C-17 System Program Office with personnel located at both Robins and WPAFB plays a crucial role in the sustainment, modification, maintenance and overall service of the entire fleet.

Working closely with Boeing, the office has ensured that the Air Force can execute its core function of rapid global mobility while building a reputation of safety, capability and remarkable reliability.

Since its initial operational capability was declared in 1995, the entire C-17 fleet with FMS partners has flown more than 2.8 million flight hours with a cumulative 756,422 sorties in support of military operations, exercises, patient transport and humanitarian relief.

The Air Force received its final C-17 Globemaster III in the fall of 2013.

Myers recently attended the U.S. Army War College, and was formerly the T-38 system program manager at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.

She has encouraged members of the C-17 team to continue to provide the best support possible to the warfighter, and said her job is to ensure all tools and resources are available to make that happen.

In the words of her favorite president, Abraham Lincoln, she said, "Whatever you are, be a good one. You all have an important role to play. Our mission is so important that I will expect a lot from you. And you are so important that you should expect a lot from me."