Intel Official: 2016 Budget Factors Asymmetrical Warfare Needs

By Amaani Lyle

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2015 – The 2016 budget will reflect how intelligence capabilities and other investments align with defense challenges such as asymmetrical warfare, a Pentagon official said today during the 2015 Potomac Officers Club second annual Intel Summit.

Jim Martin, assistant under secretary of defense for intelligence portfolios, programs and resources, said asymmetrical warfare is a major focus not only for the intelligence community, but the Defense Department writ large.

“In many ways, we have a unique problem that’s common to our defense planning scenarios,” Martin said. “Initiative, space and time are on our opponents’ side.”

Asymmetric Threats

The United States’ distance to North Korea, China, Russia or the Middle East, Martin noted, can pose challenges in larger war-fighting scenarios.

“When you see state-sponsored asymmetrical warfare, it’s really aimed at the United States because of that unique challenge, which is different than the European wars of the past where you have nation states right next to each other,” he said.

As such, China and Russia emphasize capabilities such as mobile ballistic missiles, cyber warfare and counter-space systems, which Martin explained are designed to stymie U.S. response and to limit the movement of its forces.

And over the last 20 years, according to Martin, the United States has enjoyed significant war-fighting technological, logistic and combat advantage.

“But if you can only get a trickle of forces into a theater because of those asymmetrical techniques that would be used against us, then it becomes much more manageable from a China, North Korea, or Iran perspective,” he said.

Through a functioning day-to-day lens, he said, the DOD has recognized the importance of integration between defense intelligence and other elements of the intelligence community and the 2016 budget will indicate intel investments to address issues across the spectrum.

“It’s the greatest degree of integration I’ve seen,” Martin said. “There’s a tremendous amount of cooperation among the defense intelligence establishment, the associated intel agencies, and with CIA and [the Office of the Director of National Intelligence] as their oversight.”

Ultimately, Martin said, he and ODNI officials predict national security could meet various futures based on world events, from economic stagnation to a strategic consensus between the United States and China that could lead to a “golden age of technological innovation and competition.”

“We have some exciting challenges that are not insurmountable, but they are serious, and they will take a cooperative attitude in order to get where we need to be,” Martin said.

Single Airman Initiative provides Airmen with fun, community

by Staff Sgt. Stephenie Wade
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

1/21/2015 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- In 2010, the 375th Force Support Squadron adopted a new Air Force program called the Single Airman Initiative.

Funded by the Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force, and administered by Headquarters Air Force Services Agency, the program provides trips and events for single enlisted Airmen, regardless of rank, for a nominal fee.

"The goal is to provide resources that encourage a strong way of life, duty and a sense of community for single Airmen," said Garry Green, Scott AFB SAI Manager. "When we started the program it was hard to get people to sign up due to lack of visibility. Now we have a waiting list for almost every trip."

Green finds, plans and coordinates each event with a minimum amount of volunteers for the day. Before a trip can be funded, Scott Outdoor Recreation must show that it will teach attendees a skill or life lesson. For example rock climbing teaches patience, perseverance and problem solving skills. Green said the program also enhances resiliency and contributes to readiness.

During a recent visit to Scott, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody, and his wife, Athena, were inspired by one Airman's story of what the program means to her.

"The Single Airman Initiative program has personally provided myself and others like me the resources to foster the Air Force culture, mission, and a sense of community for the single Airmen within our Air Force," said Staff Sgt. Haida StarEagle. "This program is vital to many active duty members because some Airmen are facing issues which may be overlooked by leadership at all levels. Moving is also stressful for single Airmen, not just those with families. For example, many single, first term Airmen have to contend with issues such as being assigned to a new location with no social network of support and no transportation."

StarEagle said reintegration to normal day-to-day operations outside of a deployed location is a challenge in itself and even harder for someone who is single with no support system. StarEagle was introduced to the SAI program in 2006 after returning from a deployment to Iraq. Her supervisor at the time was notified by her friends that she was secluding herself within the confines of her dorm room and not participating in the activities she used to partake in. Knowing she was an adrenaline junky and avid extreme sports participant, her supervisor introduced StarEagle to her base's Outdoor Recreation department.

StarEagle arrived at Scott a little more than three months ago. It has been hard for her adapting to stateside life after serving seven years in an overseas environment.
Being the new person again she found comfort in a program she has depended on for almost her entire career. Since she arrived at Scott, her leadership and co-workers said they have noticed she has adapted to this location faster than most.

From a military standpoint, I believe that the root benefit of the program here is to increase the resiliency within the force. Building relationships with others during these trips and signing up for another one knowing that they have made new friends with similar interests confirms that the SAI program is a successful program. It opens up new gateways for Airmen to express their concerns with someone who they feel they can open up to and trust. These types of relationships can be difficult to find in a military where it seems everyone has a family, and you don't want to impinge on their personal time."

She says Scott's SAI program is the best by far, a statement that mirrors a recent Air Force Times article that tied Scott's program with Luke AFB, Arizona, for the No. 1 SAI program.

StarEagle is optimistic that in the future each base will have an Air Force SAI representative so they can collaborate, exchange ideas, and enhance resiliency among the ranks by reinforcing the benefits of the current program.

Last year the Scott SAI program provided 17 trips, one or two every month, and has managed close to 50 since the initiative began here three years ago. If members do not have transportation, ODR will pick them up from the dorms. Two trips unique to Scott are an underground kayaking adventure and a hot air balloon trip. This year single Airman can look forward to more overnight trips. If you have an idea for a trip, members can email Garry Green directly or visit ODR. For more information or to sign up visit www.375fss.com.

Face of Defense: Airman Preserves Uniforms, Heritage

By Air Force Senior Airman Jensen Stidham

20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C., Jan. 21, 2015 – Mannequins wearing different shades of green and blue, each festooned with medals and ribbons, will greet you if you visit the deputy commander’s office in the 20th Maintenance Group building here.

A Longtime Hobby

For most of his life, Air Force Lt. Col. Kyle Clement has been preserving airman heritage by collecting vintage Army Air Corps and Air Force memorabilia, most notably, uniforms and their decorations dating back to 1914.

"Everybody collects little things when they are growing up," he said. "When I was a teenager, I just happened to collect bits and pieces of Air Force uniforms. It just always caught my eye."

Since enlisting in the Air Force in 1989 and earning his commission in 1994, Clement said, he has pieced his collection together from across the United States. "The majority of it came from thrift stores," he added. "As I travel, if I pass an antique store, I'll pull over and check it out. It's amazing what you can find. Most stores don't even know what it is."

Passion Goes Beyond the Fabric

Though his collection of complete uniforms has grown to more than 15, his passion for collecting is not all about the pieces of fabric, Clement said.

"Every one of these uniforms belonged to an airman, and I think that is key," he explained. "The history of why these uniforms were worn, who wore them, and how our uniform has changed over the years is incredible. The uniforms we wear today are just pieces of the uniforms that used to be worn."

Though he bought his first vintage uniform as a young captain, Clement said, his favorite uniform -- known as "pinks and greens," the Army Air Corps uniform from World War II -- connects him to an earlier time in his life. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1994 wearing a similar uniform, he said, and the uniform reminds him of his college years and the opportunity that led to his commission.

Since college, Clement said, he has spent time reading to ensure he displays all of his uniforms, ribbons, medals and hats accurately.

"Lieutenant Colonel Clement's collection is brilliant," said Air Force 2nd Lt. Cameron Schmitt, the group’s executive officer. "His love for history is incredible, and it is such a great opportunity to work with someone who is willing to give a quick history lesson at a moment's notice."

Looking Ahead

In addition to continuing to collect vintage uniforms, Clement said, he hopes to become an ROTC instructor after he retires from the Air Force and he plans to display them in his classroom.

"My intent is for these uniforms to never come home with me," he said. "I plan to have them in my classroom one day and then donate them to the school. That way, they can continue to be appreciated."

Clement’s passion for uniforms has been a lifelong journey rooted in Air Force history, Schmitt said.

"He is helping preserve our heritage through his collection, and that is crucial to the development of airmen and officers alike," he added.

One STEP ahead

by Senior Airman Peter Thompson
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

1/16/2015 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- "Do you believe in the Christmas spirit? Do you believe somebody could walk into this room as a staff sergeant and leave it as a tech sergeant?"

Staff Sgt. Raven Taylor, 7th Medical Operations Squadron medical technician, went to work at the 7th Medical Group building Dec. 22, as she had for the past seven months. This day was different than every other day, however. On this day, Col. Michael Bob Starr, 7th Bomb Wing commander, recognized her for outstanding service to the Air Force and promoted her to the rank of technical sergeant through the Stripes for Exceptional Performers program.

Taylor, the youngest of four children, was born in Blackshear, Georgia. From an early age, she showed leadership traits as an exemplary student and cheerleader through college.

In November 2007, after several years of college and earning an associate's degree, Taylor decided to join the Air Force to help guide her career and life in a more purposeful direction.

"I wasn't quite focusing the way I wanted to so I decided I needed to take a detour and get back on the right track," Taylor said.

"My plan was to join, do my four years, get my bachelor's degree and then I would be done," she said.

Taylor started her career at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, where she stood out amongst her peers. She was an active member of both the base and community. Her plans changed when she earned Senior Airman below the zone and made staff sergeant her first time testing. These accomplishments opened Taylor's eyes to her future in the Air Force.

"I wanted to see what else was out there," she remembered. "I was still education oriented, but that was when I started seeing the possibilities that come with making a career in the Air Force."

Taylor's next career milestone was the most significant up to that date. The Air Force selected Taylor as one of the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2011 while stationed at Yakota Air Base, Japan. In addition to her regular duties, Taylor would act as a conduit for Airmen across the Pacific Air Force and Chief Master Sgt. James Roy, retired chief master sergeant of the Air Force. Together with the other 11 OAY, Taylor worked to address and correct issues with enlisted policy and make a lasting impact on the Air Force as a whole.

"I was very thankful. I did not know about the program before I was selected to be a part of it," Taylor said. "When I got it, I just ran with it. It helped me to become a better Airman, leader and NCO."

On the morning of Dec. 22, Taylor accepted her testing date for technical sergeant. Thoughts of added pressure from testing for a third time ran through her mind as she dealt with her busy schedule. To add to her workload, her supervisor asked her to fill in for a squadron meeting.

"I got to the meeting, everything was normal," she said. "My supervisor and Airmen came into the meeting, but I thought nothing of it really."

While her squadron commander was speaking about the upcoming holidays, Starr and Chief Master Sgt. Eddie Webb, 7th Bomb Wing command chief, walked in.
Starr began asking people about their plans for the holiday.

"I was sitting there, thinking in my mind, please don't come to me, please don't come to me," Taylor said with a smile growing on her face. "I was at the end of the table so I thought I was safe, but he asked me."

"Do you believe in the Christmas spirit? Do you believe somebody could walk into this room as a staff sergeant and leave it as a tech sergeant?" Starr asked.

"It still gives me chills when I think about it. I did not see it coming," she said, tears filling eyes.

The STEP promotion system supplements existing Airmen promotion system by providing a tool available to commanders for promoting to staff sergeant, technical sergeant and master sergeant, those who they feel exhibit exceptional potential.

Taylor's leadership recognized her exemplary career and impact on the Air Force as a whole. She was one of only eight staff sergeants selected to be step promoted in the entire 12th Air Force.

Air Force Surgeon General visits Beale

by Senior Airman Bobby Cummings
9th Reconnaissance WIng Public Affairs

1/20/2015 - BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Thomas Travis, Air Force Surgeon General, visited Beale Air Force Base, Calif., Jan. 13-15, to get the latest updates on the  9th Medical Group's capabilities and accomplishments  along with the overall health of the community.

Travis oversees 75 military treatment facilities worldwide and a 42,000-person integrated health care delivery system serving 2.6 million beneficiaries.

His responsibilities include serving as the functional manager of the Air Force Medical Service. He advises the Secretary of the Air Force and Air Force Chief of Staff, as well as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs on matters pertaining to the medical aspects of the air expeditionary force and the health of Air Force communities.

Travis, along with Brig. Gen. Sean L. Murphy, command surgeon of Air Combat Command, and Chief Master Sgt. Jason Pace, Chief of the medical enlisted force, spoke with Airmen from the 9th MDG regarding the future of the AFMS.

"By concentrating on prevention and health, in addition to care, we can attain our vision that our supported population is the healthiest and highest performing segment of the US by 2025," Travis said.

In addition, the pair made numerous stops at various medical agencies to interact with Airmen.

"I am absolutely thrilled with what I see here at the 9th MDG in supporting all of the incredibly talented Airmen at Beale," Travis said. "I'm seeing bright, energetic and innovative Airmen that often times are ahead of my thinking.  The future of Air Force medicine is in great hands."

According to Travis, high operations tempo and unique intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions at Beale require specific operational medical support.  That support is in place and functioning well.

"Many people don't realize Beale Airmen are at war every day around the clock 365 days a year," he said. "There are specific career fields here with very specific stressors. The 9th MDG provides support to those Airmen."

Travis left Beale with an assured sense of Beale's medical capabilities.

"I am very proud of the Airmen and the leadership of the 9th MDG," Travis said. "Great leaders are people who delegate, trust and empower their Airmen to innovate and accomplish what they're fully capable of.  I see that here."

Modernization is a must for the nuclear enterprise

by Staff Sgt. Torri Ingalsbe
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs Command Information

1/21/2015 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The Air Force's priorities for modernization and continuous improvement in the nuclear enterprise were the top of discussion during the Air Force Association's monthly breakfast Jan. 20 in Arlington, Virginia.

"This nuclear deterrent is as relevant and is as needed today as it was in January of 1965," said Maj. Gen. Garrett Harencak, the Air Force assistant chief of staff for strategic deterrence and nuclear integration. "And it will be, until that happy day comes when we rid the world of nuclear weapons. It will be just as relevant in 2025, ten years from now."

To remain relevant, Harencak explained the importance of investing in programs to modernize the two legs of the nuclear triad owned by the Air Force, including the long-range strike bomber and the ground-based strategic deterrent.

"It's not going to be inexpensive, but it's also not going to be unaffordable," he said. "It's something we have to do to protect our nation. In this world, there still is a nuclear threat and our United States Air Force is there to meet it so we can defend our great nation, and our allies."

The Air Force's goal is to develop and purchase 80 to 100 LRSB aircraft. This modernization of nuclear-capable bombers will provide safe, secure and effective forces for generations to come, he explained.

"In what world do we send our grandchildren into combat in 80-year-old airplanes?" Harencak asked. "There are a lot of hard decisions we've got to make out there, but this isn't one of them. We want them (our children and grandchildren) to win: 100 to nothing, not 51 to 49. We can afford this, and it's desperately needed so the United States Air Force continues to be what it always has been - the force that allows alternatives and options for our president to defend America."

In addition to investment in aircraft, the Air Force is continuously working on increasing morale and mission focus within the intercontinental ballistic missile community, with help and guidance from the Force Improvement Program.

"Our ICBMs have been referred to as America's 'ace in the hole,' for more than 50 years," Harencak said. "They still are. They are still the ante into this game that is so high that no one out there would ever be perversely incentivized to attempt to become a nuclear competitor with us. They make sure no one out there has any illusions that they could accomplish anything through the threat or use of nuclear weapons."

To reinvigorate the ICBM community, the Air Force is on track to modernize the Minuteman III weapon system until the ground-based strategic deterrent is underway. Last year marked many changes in the community, and Harencak said the Air Force will continue to make improvements.

"What we're doing is making sure this is a process of continuous improvement," he said. "I am 100 percent positive we don't have it 100 percent right - but that's okay. We do have the processes and organizations in place to make sure we continually improve and never take our eye off the ball of the needs of Airmen in the nuclear enterprise."

The bottom line is we must move forward to ensure America's nuclear triad is still the best in the world, and the general said modernization and recapitalization is the way to go.

"The triad has been proven and tried and true for decades - because it works," Harencak said. "We need to continue to make the modest investments necessary to make sure we have the absolute best nuclear deterrent going forward."

Homestead teams-up with local fire rescue for life saving training

by Senior Airman Jaimi L. Upthegrove
482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/20/2015 - HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- Homestead's Fire Flight teamed-up Jan. 8 with Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue instructors for challenging training focused on survival techniques.

The training included navigating through a building blind, locating a safe exit using a fire hose, the Denver Drill, which is a technique taught to firefighters because of a firefighter who lost his life in Denver, and working through confined spaces.

The Fire Flight is a specialty team within the 482nd Civil Engineering Squadron Prime BEEF (base engineer emergency force). The unit is composed of civil engineer forces organized for direct combat support or emergency recovery from natural disasters.

Upon arrival, the reservists were divided into two teams and given a safety briefing. Each team went to a separate area of training and rotated through the different stations.

One of the stations was a mock apartment building. The instructor walked the team through the drill verbally before everyone suited up and broke into pairs.

Each pair put on full proximity gear with a face-covering mask, blinding them so they couldn't see in the darkened building. The blindness simulated heavy smoke obscuring their vision, and the pairs had work together using their tools, hands and each other to safely navigate through the apartment without becoming disoriented. The drill ended when the instructors yelled, "You're out of air ... you have 20 seconds to get out!" In 20 seconds, the pair scrambled to locate the window and jump out.

"This drill is to help them learn the importance of staying oriented in any environment," said Capt. Elvin Gonzalez, Miami-Dade County fire instructor. "It's hard to imagine how disorienting it is to be crawling around in full gear in a structure you've never been in without being able to see. If you get disoriented, you don't know how to get out if things get hot or you run out of air."

The next training station was similar, but for a different purpose. Each team was taught how to locate the hose and use it to determine which direction would lead them safely back to the fire truck.

After the team regrouped from the fire hose challenge, they transitioned to a large room full of obstacles. The instructors demonstrated various ways to get through different obstacles, describing  when they might encounter them in a real world scenario.

"This training helped build my confidence and taught me to not be claustrophobic," said Staff Sgt. Alvaro Casado, Fire Flight fire protection technician. "Now I know when I get into that kind of situation to relax and think it through, not to panic."

Among the obstacles was a large box full of wires and string that each person had to successfully crawl through, not getting themselves or equipment tangled. Each obstacle presented a unique problem. For instance, one obstacle was small and triangle-shaped forcing the individual to contort their body and plan where to place their tank. Another was a small, smooth cylinder tube.

"The tube was probably the hardest because it was tight and there was nothing to grip," said Senior Airman Angelo Viniegra, Fire Flight fire protection technician.

After a challenging morning filled with instruction and drills, both teams took a much-needed lunch break and prepared for learning the Denver Drill and going through the maze.

Lt. Kory Kiper, Miami-Dade County fire instructor, explained that a firefighter from Denver lost his life because the area he went down in was too small for his team members to maneuver his body into a life-saving carrying position to get him out.

Kiper said after that event, this technique was created to save lives in the future.
At the instructor's direction, team two went straight to the maze.

The maze was a room full of obstacles the Airman crawled through in full gear, wearing oxygen tanks, but without a light source to guide them.

They worked in pairs to get out safely before running out of air.

"Most of our Airmen have never dealt with confined spaces, so this is critical survival training because if a building collapses, and you haven't trained, you won't know how to react, you may panic and die," said Chief Master Sgt. Lorenzo Gardner, Fire Flight chief. "We want to put them through this type of intense training so they'll know how to handle the situation if it happens to them."

Prime BEEF personnel are a rapid response expeditionary force. The training they received prepares them for future deployments or to assist locally in emergency situations.

"This class was very professional, second to none," added Gardner. "The instructors obviously loved their job and were very knowledgeable."

Wyoming MAFFS crew receives aircrew distinction award

by Capt. Cody Hawkins
153rd Airlift Wing

1/15/2015 - CHEYENNE, Wyo. -- An Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and active-duty Air Force aircrew aboard an Air Force C-130H3 Hercules aircraft recently received the Air Mobility Command Chief of Safety Aircrew of Distinction Award for their efforts following a landing gear malfunction while fighting fires in southern Utah.

The Modular Airborne Firefighting System crew finished two successful fire retardant drops when they were instructed to reload for a third drop at Hill Air Force Base in northern Utah.

As the crew prepared to land, Maj. Jack Berquist, aircraft commander, and his co-pilot, Maj. Derik George, noticed the nose gear wasn't functioning properly. At that point, the crew, including the navigator Capt. Brett Goebel, flight engineer Tech. Sgt. Damian Hoffmann, and load masters, Master Sgts. Brandon York and Christian Reese, began troubleshooting the problem. Berquist also began communicating with Hill Air Force Base's air traffic control about the issue.

After two hours of circling and with only about 30 minutes of fuel remaining, the crew realized they had exhausted all of their options. That's when Berquist directed his crew to prepare for an emergency crash landing. Preparations included having Hill officials spray foam on the runway and having crash fire rescue personnel in place.

After configuring the disabled aircraft, Berquist landed the plane and held the nose up off the ground as long as possible, before gently bringing it in contact with the runway. Berquist was able to bring the aircraft to a smooth stop on the center of the runway and the crew exited the plane without injuries.

The efforts by the MAFFS 3 crew resulted in the safe return of six Airmen and only minor damage to a $37 million aircraft.

"In-flight emergencies and emergency landings do happen," said Goebel. "We train extensively year-round in the aircraft and simulator for unlikely events such as these. Without a doubt, we provide some of the best training and preparation of any professional flying organization from not only an individual, but also a crew standpoint. This was definitely a crew effort!"

109th members selected as NYANG Airmen of the Year

by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt
109th AW Public Affairs

1/16/2015 - STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.Y. -- Two Airmen from the 109th Airlift Wing here were among six recently selected 2014 New York Air National Guard Outstanding Airmen of the Year.

Senior Airman James Comstock, who is the NYANG Airman of the Year, and Master Sgt. Michael Lazzari, the NYANG First Sergeant of the Year, were selected for the state-level award based on superior leadership, job performance, community involvement and personal achievements.

"Congratulations to our two state-level winners," said Col. Shawn Clouthier, 109th AW commander. "They were among 14 extremely strong candidates from our wing. All of whom embody superior performance and the strong leadership qualities to excel in the future. Also, congratulations to all of the selections from across the state and good luck as they compete at the national level."

Lazzari, a Schenectady native who has nearly 19 years of total military service including a five-year active duty tour, joined the 109th AW Fire Department in 2007. In 2012, he became the first sergeant for the 109th Mission Support Group. In the last year, Lazzari has supported both Operation Raven Dew in Greenland and Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica as the unit's deployed first sergeant.

Lazzari said the continued teamwork at the 109th AW has been one of the contributing factors to his success as first sergeant. He also said the sacrifices and support his family has made during his time way have been true motivators for him.

"Without them I wouldn't be able to do this at all," he said. "I can't thank them enough for all the support they offer. I love being at home with my wife, daughter and family and don't take my time away from them for granted. If I am not giving my best, their sacrifices and support are for nothing. I solely accept this award as a reflection of all the help and support I receive from my wife, family and friends."

Comstock, a Guilderland native, joined the wing in 2008. He is currently a customer support representative with the 109th Logistics Readiness Squadron. Comstock received the John L. Levitow award while attending Airman Leadership School this past year and is also the current president of the 109th First Six Council. The council represents the junior enlisted of the wing. With the council, he has participated in many community events throughout the year, and also coordinated the wing's first Adopt-A-Highway project.

"I attribute this award to the great opportunities the unit offers," Comstock said. "An award like this couldn't be accomplished without a unit that supports their people to strive past their potential."

Along with the unit, Comstock said his he couldn't have accomplished what he's achieved without the support of his wife and children.

"I was very excited to hear the news at each step of the process ... going from squadron, to wing to state," he said. "We have a lot of excellent Airmen in the New York Air National Guard, and to be thought of as one of them is a great thing."

"These two individuals embody the Air Force core values of integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do," said Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto, 109th AW command chief. "They are team players and always motivated to do what they can to lead and make a difference at this Wing and within their community. Their can-do attitudes are infectious! I am so proud of them, and I am glad that the state recognized who they are and what they represent."

Comstock and Lazzari will compete for the 2014 Air National Guard Outstanding Airmen of the Year.

Hurricane Hunters investigate training options in New Mexico

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

1/20/2015 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Being the only weather reconnaissance squadron in the Department of Defense providing surveillance of tropical storms and hurricanes for the National Hurricane Center can present some unique challenges--like aircrew training.

A quest for improved WC-130J Combat Systems Operator training led the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, part of the 403rd Wing at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, to visit the 58th Special Operation Wing's 58th Training Squadron's C-130J Center of Excellence at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, Jan. 12-14.

The 58th SOW, which received MC-130J and HC-130Js in 2011, is the only school house in the Air Force that offers C-130J CSO, or navigator, training. The wing trains Air Force special operations and combat search and rescue aircrews offering more than 100 courses in 18 different crew positions to include pilots, loadmasters and CSOs. It was the unit's CSO course that prompted the 53rd WRS to investigate future training opportunities at Kirtland, said Lt. Col. Matthew Muha, 53rd WRS commander and navigator.

All special mission C-130s have navigators because of the workload the specials systems require. While a typical C-130J crew consists of two pilots and a loadmaster, a WC-130J Hurricane Hunter aircrew consists of five positions: pilot, co-pilot, aerial weather reconnaissance officer, loadmaster, and combat systems operator, or navigator. For the weather mission, CSOs prepare weather recon mission plans, use navigational equipment to locate and penetrate tropical cyclones, and use radar to avoid areas of extreme weather in a storm.

"Sometimes it takes two pilots just to fly the plane in very severe weather so the navigator is guiding us through the least severe of the severe weather," said Lt. Col. Keith Gibson, 53rd WRS director of operations and pilot.

Currently, 53d WRS pilots and loadmasters go through their initial C-130J training at 314th Airlift Wing's tactical airlift "Center of Excellence" at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. CSOs from the 53d WRS have no external formal school, so they train in-house at Keesler.

"When our pilots and loadmasters go to Little Rock for initial and mission qualification, the CSO is not part of the crew. This is a disadvantage for not only the CSO, but also the pilots and loadmasters since they don't have a CSO on the crew for their initial training in the C-130J," said Muha, adding that the squadron has an Air Education and Training Command approved syllabus for specialized mission training for CSOs and ARWOs. "An advantage of training our CSOs at the 58th is they would get to train with pilots and loadmasters as a crew. This will make all crew positions more accustomed to working together as a team, which greatly improves crew resource management."

Another advantage of training at Kirtland would be the availability for simulator training, said Gibson. CSOs currently conduct all training in the actual WC-130J aircraft during flight.

"It's a lot cheaper to train personnel on a simulator versus during an actual mission," said Gibson. "With a simulator trainers can create different environments such as day, night, high-level, low-level, and bad weather to force the crews to work together in those situations. We can't create bad weather so when our CSOs train for the weather mission it is real-world."

The 53rd WRS originally visited Kirtland in November 2014 to investigate training options for their CSOs, but while there they discovered the school also has courses that may benefit their other crewmembers as well, which prompted the visit to the 58th TRS this week, said Muha.

The group of nine Hurricane Hunters received an overview of the school, a tour of training devices, to include simulators, and had in-depth discussion with wing, group and squadron leadership about the potential for WC-130J training at Kirtland.

"The training they offer here is also excellent for pilots and loadmasters but it is undetermined if it's more appropriate than what is already provided at Little Rock," said Col. David J. Condit, 403rd Operations Group commander and navigator. "There may also be some potential for aircraft systems training for ARWOs who also have to do all of their training in-house at the squadron."