Sentry operators keep 'eyes in the sky'

by Senior Airman Maeson L. Elleman
18th Wing Public Affairs

5/1/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) -- In the quiet darkness surrounding the flightline here, the awaiting aircraft roars to life with an escalated screech, and cool air rushes to fill the newly-lit cabin.

As the chill meets the lingering humid air within the aircraft, a smoke-like fog diffuses into the nooks and crevices around the computer stations and throughout the cockpit.

While it sounds like a mysterious and menacing science fiction movie, this is a commonplace occurrence for the E-3 Sentry crew from the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron.

Once the airborne warning and control system takes toward the horizon and the dense fog begins to disperse, the cabin isn't the only thing that becomes more visible to the crew, but rather the entire encompassing airspace.

With its command and control capabilities and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission, the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft assigned to the unit opens the crew's and Kadena AB's eyes to virtually everything in the air. It's this capability that allows Kadena AB and other Air Force assets to project superior force for any contingency.

"If a contingency kicks off in the area, we're the eyes in the sky," said Maj. Cliff King, the 961st AACS electronic combat officer. "It's important to have AWACS in the sky for protection of our assets and allies in the region."

Operating as the largest overseas combat wing, Kadena AB hosts multiple airframes ranging from F-15 Eagles to HH-60G Pave Hawk search and rescue helicopters.

However, AWACS crews provide essential air battle management and comprehensive information on visibility and direction of practically all aircraft in the region. Without this ability, all Air Force airborne units would be blind to other aircraft in the battlespace.

Lt. Col. Trey Coleman, the 961st AACS director of operations, said that capability is something that sets the Air Force apart from other nations.

"I think that air battle management is a direct correlate to the rise of American air power since the Vietnam War," Coleman said. "It's one of those integral things that makes American air power unique and makes it the best in the world."

Since its establishment here more than a decade ago, the 961st AACS has provided unwavering and unmatched air battle management in the Pacific area of responsibility.

There are 32 Sentries currently in the Air Force inventory. Air Combat Command hosts 27 E-3s at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., while Pacific Air Forces features four of the aircraft between Kadena AB and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

However, Coleman, who's been on Kadena AB since September last year, said its expansive mission and strategic location make Kadena one of the most important bases for deterring conflict in the region.

"I believe Kadena AB is the best and most important place in the world to conduct air battle management," Coleman said. "In today's geo-strategic context in the Pacific coupled with the downsizing of our fleet, nowhere else is it more important to have effective and efficient ABM."

Though the 961st AACS has only claimed the iconic "ZZ" tail codes of the 18th Wing since 1991, the squadron hosts a lineage as the 61st Bombardment Squadron commissioned in 1940, which predates those of its fellow Sentry-laden sister units.

Despite altering its mission and equipment since it began in World War II to the advanced systems it boasts now, Coleman said the equipment isn't what gives American Airmen the deciding advantage.

Rather, he said, it's the legacy preceding the formation of the Air Force, exemplified by Medal of Honor recipients and predecessors in training and command.

"Our technology is fantastic, but it'll be out-aced in time," he said. "What we bring to the table as American Airmen is a corporate wealth of knowledge that spans all the way back to (retired Brig. Gen.) Billy Mitchell and the Air Corps Tactical School."

Dover reservist battles brain cancer

by Tech. Sgt. Charles Walker
436th AW Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del.  -- Sometimes a headache is just a headache. Other times it can be the sign of something much worse.

Just ask Maj. Shawn Boyle, an Individual Mobilization Augmentee reservist with the 436th Airlift Wing Judge Advocate office.

Boyle, who lives outside of Pittsburgh, Pa., was experiencing what he thought were severe migraine headaches. Over time the headaches and the pain from them continued to grow worse. Boyle had been to the doctor several times and he was taking aspirin.

He went to the local doctor in October 2012, and they told him it was his sinuses. In early February of this year, Boyle was at the fitness center working out, when the pain from the headaches became unbearable. He was sent to a specialty doctor and that's when he got the proper diagnosis ... brain cancer.

Boyle was diagnosed with a slow-growing cancer in his brain. It is inoperable, and the outlook for he and his family is going to be a rough and bumpy one.

"The doctor said unless you knew what you were looking for, when you hear about headaches in the front of the head you assume it is sinus," Boyle said. "The cancer is an inoperable astrocytoma. They can't operate, but they can try to slow its growth with radiation."

Boyle began radiation treatment last week at the John Murtha Cancer Center at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. He will undergo aggressive radiation treatment for six and a half weeks and then he will be checked again to see what his and the cancer's reaction was to the radiation. Boyle said his doctor is telling him if the treatment goes well he can live as much as 10-to-15 years.

Boyle's wife Sarah said it's been a rough couple months for her and her family since getting the news in February.

"Obviously the diagnosis has been difficult," Sarah said. "Our sister-in-law had a brain tumor and died last year leaving behind her two daughters. So the diagnosis was not a happy thing, it felt like a blow. But the amount of care and concern we've received, it's amazing. I never expected such an outpouring, I'm truly grateful."

Sarah, who is a family therapist with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania, said the news has been especially hard on their daughter Cathleen, who is staying with Sarah's parents while Sarah and Shawn stay at the Fisher House near Walter Reed.

"She is very stoic, it has hit her very, very hard," Sarah said. "She tries very hard to protect her dad and keep a stiff upper lip, but she has already broken down a few times. We got the school involved once we got the diagnosis and they are keeping tabs on her. Even though she is staying with my parents, the split has been very difficult."

Shawn said that since his diagnosis, his other family, the Air Force, has stepped in to help him in ways he never would have imagined, namely his bosses Lt. Col. Scott Boehne, staff judge advocate with the 436th AW and Carmel Feliciani, also from the same office.

"My co-workers have been wonderful," Boyle said. "Ms. Feliciani has been on the phone every day seeing if I need anything. Lt. Col. Boehne has been taking care of things as well. They've both been really great. I can't say enough on how everyone has been treating me. It has been wonderful."

Boehne said that he and his office have tried to do everything they could to keep Shawn stress free as he and his family begin their battle with cancer.

"We tried to do everything we could on our end so he would not worry about his status with the Air Force," Boehne said. "We had to learn a bit, about who are the right points of contact, but we have been working those bureaucratic hurdles. We've tried to shield him from stress so he could focus on treatment and recovery."

Sarah said Thomas Krug deserves a lot of thanks for the care her husband has received so far. Krug, who is a recovery care coordinator with the Wounded Warrior Program, is basically making sure Shawn and Sarah are cared for and that their needs are met.

"He has meant everything," Sarah said of Krug. "In many ways, he has saved our lives. I wouldn't know where we would be without Tom, and we can't thank him enough. The Wounded Warrior Program is just wonderful. Everybody who works for them should be thanked."

Boyle, who began his 20-year career as an enlisted soldier in the Army, before switching to the Air Force and joining the JAG Corps, began his chemotherapy last Tuesday and will continue with radiation treatment for the next six weeks.

His love for his family and the Air Force he said means the world to him.

"Sometimes an event in your life changes so much" Boyle said. "One minute your life can turn upside down. A lot of people step up and offer you so much love and so much hope, how do you say thank you? You can't say thank you enough.

"My military family means so much to me. Me and my family, we're holding up well. I'm just going to enjoy them as much as I can for as long as I can."

AMARG held Boneyard 5k

by Airman 1st Class Christine Griffiths
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZ.,  -- The 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group hosted the Desert Boneyard 5K here, April 28.

AMARG, commonly known as the Boneyard, is a one-of-a-kind, specialized facility within the Air Force where aircraft retire.

Prior to the run, participants watched as Airmen from the D-M Honor Guard performed the opening ceremony and told the Air Force story, as well as the history of the Boneyard.

This was the first year AMARG held the 5k, knowing that the local community and active duty military from around Tucson would enjoy the chance to run among the aircraft at the Boneyard.

"In the initial planning stages we were actually preparing for 300 people," said 1st Lt. Michele Tempel, 355th Civil Engineer Squadron Civil Engineer Readiness Emergency Management flight commander. "And we really passed that up fairly quickly and ended up with 810 registered participants; we far exceeded our expectations!"

Capt. Michael Miller, Bravo Company 209th Military Intelligence commander at Fort Huachuca, was the first place winner in the first 5k event.

"This event was really well organized and well supported. I can tell the Air Force put a lot of effort into it," Miller said. "It was a lot of fun and it was great to see the whole community out here having a good time."

With the positive response from the base and local community, AMARG is looking to hold this event annually.

"Hopefully in the years to come it becomes and Air Force tradition," Tempel said. "We have a lot of interest, so I can definitely see that happening in the future."

Moody holds F-86L Sabre dedication ceremony

by By Senior Airman Eileen Meier
23d Wing Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Members of Team Moody came together to attend the F-86L Sabre dedication ceremony in honor of fallen U.S. Air Force pilot Maj. Lyn McIntosh at the President George W. Bush Air Park at Moody Field April 27, 2013.

The ceremony began with a prayer from U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Donald Bridges, who spoke about McIntosh and his brave actions as a fighter pilot.

"May this memorial serve to remind all those who pass by those scriptured words," said Bridges. "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for friends."

McIntosh was killed in a collision with two aircraft during Operation Eagle Claw in 1980. It was a mission ordered by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter to end the Iran hostage situation.

Members of the McIntosh family were introduced at the ceremony, followed by the unveiling of McIntosh's name stenciled on the side of the F-86. His three sons Mark, Stuart and Scott McIntosh joined Col. Edward Ford, 23d Mission Support Group commander, on the stage to unveil the plaque dedicated to their father.

Col. Billy Thompson, 23d Wing commander, took the podium to say a few words.

"Two days ago we marked 33 years since (McIntosh) gave his life during Operation Eagle Claw, a rescue attempt of 52 American hostages held in Tehran, Iran," said Thompson. "His heroic actions and this aircraft will forever leave Major McIntosh and the Flying Tigers with Moody AFB .

"Major McIntosh embodied the motto by which our rescue community lives: These things we do, that others may live," said Thompson. "We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the McIntosh family and the city of Valdosta for allowing Major McIntosh's legacy to be a part of ours. It's truly an honor."

In 1961 the F-86 was loaned to the city of Valdosta from the U.S. Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base , Ohio, to be displayed as a monument representing the close community ties with Moody.

Shortly after McIntosh was killed on April 25, 1980, it was rededicated in his honor because of his native ties with the town. Twenty-two years later, consent was received from assigned custodians of the F-86 and the McIntosh family to relocate the vintage aircraft to Moody AFB.

With a group effort of base and local agencies, the F-86 arrived at Moody April 25, 2012, the 32nd anniversary of McIntosh's death.

"I think this aircraft and memorial does nothing more than strengthen the bonds between the base and our city," said Thompson. "We truly appreciate how much of a piece of history this F-86 is.
"I say it all the time, but I truly believe we couldn't do what we do at Moody without the unfailing support of the local communities," he added.

Andersen wheel, tire shop improves capabilities, minimizes time, money spent

by Staff Sgt. Veronica McMahon
36th Wing Public Affairs

5/1/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -  -- The 36th Maintenance Squadron Aircraft Wheel and Tire shop recently installed new equipment to fully accommodate the B-52 Stratofortress and any other aircraft using the flightline on Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, while saving roughly $32,000 annually.

This capability is due to the installation of universal adapters for the aircraft tire bead breakers. The universal adaptor allows the bead breaker to separate the rubber from the rim on various tire sizes.

"Previously, we only repaired tires for the RQ-4 Global Hawk, but now we've begun expanding our capabilities to assist with the B-52s," said Staff Sgt. Tyler Ambrose, 36th MXS Wheel and Tire Shop specialist. "Now that we have installed this adapter we are able to work on any aircraft in the Air Force inventory, saving us time and money."

Ambrose and Staff Sgt. Jan Stevens, 36th MXS wheel and tire shop specialist, run the two-man shop and are thankful to have the new ability to repair tires here.

"Until recently, brand-new tires were flown into Guam completely assembled," Ambrose said. "Now that we have the capability to work on them, the parts can be shipped in by boat and assembled here. All repairs can also be conducted right here at the shop.

"It's a major cost benefit considering that we are in the remote location of Guam," he continued. "The tires are so heavy it cuts down tremendously on shipping costs alone."

Since the equipment was installed so recently, the team has not yet repaired a B-52 tire, but they have repaired Global Hawk tires, along with tires from other aircraft during recent exercises.

"During Cope North, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, U.S. Navy and other U.S. Air Force units were able to use the shop to do minor repairs here instead of shipping in completely assembled tires from their home station units," said Stevens.

According to Stevens, tires for the JASDF Mitsubishi F-2s and F-15 Eagles, U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornets and the Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons were all repaired using the new equipment, and so far, the tools have worked to the shop's expectations.

"Having the universal adapter makes the process a lot quicker, smoother and now we can accommodate anything we come across," said Stevens. "This new capability also allows us to provide more services during joint exercises and support our international allies."

While they are now capable to support any aircraft tire, Ambrose and Stevens said they expect most of their repairs to be on the Global Hawk and B-52 tires.

Along with repairs, the B-52 tires will soon be built on Andersen as well. The shop has already received 49 different parts that make up a B-52 tire and is equipped with roughly 75 percent of the parts to build the tires in-house. According to Ambrose, in the next few months the shop will have the ability to fully outfit an aircraft in a day if need be.

When the B-52 units deploy in for their six-month rotations, six maintainers will accompany the unit and assist with tire repairs to assist with the increased work load.

"The Global Hawks are always here, the B-52s are constantly deploying in and other aircraft are always using the flightline, so whatever tire problems come up we are ready," Ambrose said. "Any tire obstacle we come across on Andersen, we are ready and able to play our part to keep the mission going."

Face of Defense: Training Helps Mechanic Save Fellow Paratrooper

By Army Sgt. Mike MacLeod
1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division

FORT BRAGG, N.C., May 1, 2013 – Army Sgt. James Hayes has one piece of advice for soon-to-deploy mechanics: take your training seriously.

Army Sgt. James Hayes stands in front of a vehicle-recovery wrecker at Fort Bragg, N.C., on April 30, 2013. Hayes and his team used a wrecker to lift a damaged vehicle off a fellow paratrooper a year ago in Afghanistan, saving the paratrooper’s life. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mike MacLeod   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Hayes, a mechanic who deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team to Afghanistan in 2012, said that the first time he had to rely on his training to right a flipped armored vehicle, everything worked exactly as he had trained.

At stake was the life of a fellow paratrooper, Army Spc. Justin Lansford, a turret gunner who was pinned under the top of a mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle after it was flipped by an exploding improvised explosive device. Lansford was critically wounded and was bleeding heavily from femoral arteries.

“I remember thinking it was going to turn bad quick if I didn’t do it right,” said Hayes, a freckle-faced former German citizen and son of an American soldier.

When Hayes, Army Cpl. Joshua Dobson and two other mechanics arrived at the attack site, medics were treating Lansford, and the damaged vehicle was on fire, Hayes said.
After extinguishing the fire, the mechanics determined the correct lifting points and amount of winch force to apply based on the vehicle’s weight, and gently lifted the wreckage high enough to extricate the pinned paratrooper.

“I can’t even explain to you how rewarding that feeling was,” Hayes said.

Lansford was airlifted from the battlefield, eventually recovering from his injuries at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Although Lansford lost both of his legs above the knee, he was glad to be alive, he said.

During Hayes’ six-month deployment, he and his team recovered 15 to 20 vehicles. Most were for mechanical failures or driver inexperience, or a combination of the two, he said.

On one convoy, three vehicles, including Hayes’ wrecker, were struck by IEDs within seconds of each other. He and Dobson escaped injury, but soldiers in both of the other two vehicles were medically evacuated by helicopter.

The wrecker had been towing a damaged vehicle when it was hit, so mechanics used a larger truck to tow both vehicles in-line, Hayes said. The train of towed vehicles may have looked odd, he said, but it worked to take them off the battlefield.

“The training really works,” Hayes said.

Hagel Discusses Partnership With Colombian Defense Minister

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 1, 2013 – Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met with Colombian Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzón this morning at the Pentagon to discuss the close security partnership between the United States and Colombia, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel welcomes Colombian Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzon at the Pentagon, May 1, 2013. The two defense leaders met to discuss issues of mutual concern. DOD photo by Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron Hostutler   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

In a statement summarizing the meeting, Little said Hagel commended Colombia for continuing to make significant progress in its campaign against the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, a group known by its Spanish acronym FARC.

Hagel noted that while the fight continues, the United States will support Colombia in its efforts to defeat a common threat and achieve a lasting peace, the press secretary added.

The leaders also discussed ways the U.S. and Colombian militaries can work with one another on regional long-term defense planning and other future opportunities for collaboration, Little said, and Hagel noted that Colombia provides significant capabilities that have helped increase stability in the region.

Hagel stressed the importance of working with Colombia’s Defense Ministry to identify opportunities for closer collaboration ahead of additional high-level bilateral security meetings this summer, Little said.

DOD Continues to Refine Options for President on Syria

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 1, 2013 – Defense Department leaders continue to work on options and refine plans to respond to the situation in Syria if called upon, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said here today.
Since opposition to the Bashar Assad regime burst into war, DOD officials have been developing options for a wide range of contingencies, Little said.

“We continue to refine those plans based on how the conflict is unfolding and based on information we receive,” he added. “That’s our responsibility, and we believe it is important to have options on the shelf to pull off in case the president looks to us to execute those options.”

Little stressed that U.S. government officials and international partners not only are looking at ways to aid the opposition, but also are considering the “day after” the Assad regime falls.

“This is not just about bringing an end to the Assad regime,” he said. “It’s also working with Syrians and partners in the region and other partners in the international community to help the Syrian people define for themselves what a post-Assad Syria will look like.”

U.S. concern in the region is not just about chemical weapons or extremist groups in Syria, Little said.
“This is a very complex, challenging environment, and those are factors that you have to weigh when you are working with others to define the day after,” he added. “We stand ready to provide updated options to the president whenever he asks for them. That’s our job.”

Little said DOD is involved with all interagency partners and is following the White House’s lead to bolster humanitarian assistance and determine how to engage even more closely with the opposition.

“We are fully engaged inside the government and with international allies and partners on how to look at the situation in Syria and act if necessary,” he said.

While the United States is fully cognizant of the role extremist groups are playing inside Syria, Little said, “we also understand that there are a large number of moderate opposition groups inside Syria that are trying to define a path toward a post-Assad Syria.”

The U.S. government’s policy on Syria hasn’t changed, he said: The United States is providing nonlethal aid to the opposition.

U.S. officials continue to look for further corroborating evidence of chemical weapons use in Syria, Little said.

Misawa fighter jets break new training barriers

by Senior Airman Derek VanHorn
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- An F-16 Fighting Falcon's radar warning receiver emits an eerie, distinct pattern as it soars over the Northern Pacific Ocean, moving closer and closer toward hostile territory. The warning tone means one thing -- missiles are inbound.

More alert now than ever before, with adrenaline pumping through every part of the pilot's being, it's time for action. The flight suits they wear -- originally created to keep the pilots warmer -- now serve an opposite purpose, soaking up feverish sweat in preparation to suppress the enemy.

This can end two ways -- a surface-to-air missile rips through the jet or the enemy radar SAM site is fiercely rendered useless, putting it to an immortal sleep.

This intense training scenario is the new norm for 35th Fighter Wing pilots as it provides the most effective real-life training they have encountered in more than 50 years here.

A team effort between the U.S. Air Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force has brought this robust simulated combat environment to the fight, implementing field training exercises for both U.S. and joint forces and setting the stage for Large Force Employment training.

The 35 FW is home of the Wild Weasel, the only Suppression of Enemy Air Defense assets in the Pacific Air Forces theater.

Previous SEAD training was primarily executed during biannual Red Flag exercises which have since been suspended due to recent Department of Defense budget constraints.

Although in its early stages, Capt. Chris Behrens, 35 FW weapons systems commander, said the capabilities this training provides can be monumental, adding that the wing has been actively moving in this direction for some time now.

"It's good both ways -- (JGSDF) get to defend themselves and simulate shooting at F-16s, and they have a great time doing that, and we get to react and simulate shooting back at them," Behrens said. "It's a great training opportunity, it's huge."

Because of the previous lack of SAM sites for WW pilots to train with, which were none, the JGSDF have knocked down a barrier that now allows pilots to track and identify emitters put out from Japanese SAM sites, allowing U.S. pilots to train to save their jet while simulating shooting back.

As a result of this joint effort, these types of defensive exercises now have the capability to take place daily, whereas previous operations were limited to only a few times a year abroad or were entirely simulated.

When simulated training took precedence, Behrens said "pilots would literally tell their wingmen, 'hey, you're being targeted', and instead now we actually have a missile site simulating shooting at us and showing up on our real-life systems so we can react and simulate engaging."

A critical ingredient that has accelerated the training process was gaining access to the Gaicho airspace, an area over the Northern Pacific Ocean that connects the airspace over the ocean to the mainland.

The Gaicho airspace hosts an area known as Draughon Range, a location where pilots are authorized to drop live ordnance.

"This airspace allows us to train for our full Wild Weasel mission, using real targets to drop bombs for realistic training and mission employment," said Capt. Thomas Mueller, 35th Operations Support Squadron chief of wing training. "We will fly every type of mission here and use it regularly."

The benefits of this addition have already made their mark, as 35 OSS Commander Lt. Col. Dave Lyons said he thinks the acquisition of this airspace has had the biggest impact on 35 FW combat training since the arrival of the F-16 at Misawa.

It's an asset that serves a dual purpose.

"Japanese air and ground forces benefit greatly as well, as the Gaicho airspace connects Bravo airspace to these SAM emitters, allowing the JGSDF to train on real air threats too," Mueller added. "Training against real threats will increase the capability of both Japanese and U.S. forces."

"This may be the most important thing that has happened here in the last 20 years," Behrens said. "We now have some great training moving forward to continue to be the best."

Flight sergeants: Pillars of law enforcement, security

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

4/30/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- ALPHA. BRAVO. CHARLIE. DELTA. Some recognize these as the first four letters of the phonetic alphabet. But for the 36th Security Forces Squadron's four flight sergeants, these are the teams of Airmen and civilians they guide to ensure protection of residents and resources on Andersen Air Force Base.

"Our flight sergeants are of extreme importance because they provide control and coordination for our security and law enforcement mission," said Capt. Stephen Zeglen, 36th SFS operations officer. "These NCOs provide guidance and leadership to accomplish our mission every hour of every day."

Flight sergeants are charged with coordinating all security and law enforcement duties for their shift and are required to be on scene for all incidents. They are in charge of command and control, determining the proper course of action and initiating response until relieved by higher authority.

"You have to have the ability to adapt to a situation, asses the scene and make a split-second decision on a positive course of action," said Tech. Sgt. Scottie Boyd, 36th SFS Law Enforcement and Security bravo flight sergeant. "You have to make sure the scene is safe for emergency responders and is blocked off from public access. It's also important that you have confidence in yourself and in the decision you make at that point in time."

The flight sergeants also have administrative responsibilities which are necessary to keep the squadron running. This includes rating enlisted performance reports, keeping track of training and providing documentation for record.

"They are not only tactically in command, they are also administratively responsible for the Airmen assigned to their flight," Zeglen said. "It is not unusual to see flight sergeants in during their days off to finishing paperwork and reports."

To qualify for a flight sergeant position, a security forces NCO must have at least six years of law enforcement experience and a critical duty certification. The certification is achieved through two months of on-the-job training and passing verbal, written and practical examinations.

"Flight sergeants are the senior members of their flights," Zeglen said. "They serve as the voices of experience and wisdom and provide mentorship to all Airmen under them. It's a huge responsibility."

With the plethora of responsibilities that range from command and control, administration and looking out for their Airmen's well-being, flight sergeants have managed to lead their teams effectively and ensure the safety of Team Andersen so Airmen can focus on the mission at hand.

The Inspection team you've never heard of

by Senior Airman Mark Hybers
507th Air Refueling Wing public affairs

5/1/2013 - TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The 1st Aviation Standards Flight is a small team of reservists performing critical inspections to ensure aircraft take off and land safely, not only at Tinker Air Force Base, but locations all over the globe.

The 24-member flight, located at the Federal Aviation Administration center at Will Rogers World Airport is a little known part of the 507th Air Refueling Wing. This unique flight augments the FAA in their mission and works hand in hand with their active duty counterparts.

This small team of inspectors spends a great deal of time flying in either the Bombardier Challenger 601 or 605 running tests on everything from takeoff and landing systems to flight routes as well as low level routes.

Missions are typically flown every two weeks. Planning for these inspections involves a great deal of preparation.

"A four or five day trip typically has two full days of planning," said Senior Master Sgt. Brian Davie, 1st ASF mission specialist superintendent. "Then there is a couple days of post trip reporting. So the whole process for one inspection can take quite a bit of our time."

While the normal two week planning, performing and post reporting takes place, this team also prepares for their annual inspection at McMurdo Station, a U.S. Antarctic research center located on the southern tip of Ross Island.

Inspections in Antarctica take place at the beginning of the summer season, which is normally in October or early November. The teams from 1st ASF are the only teams in the world qualified to inspect McMurdo Station.

"One of the reasons we go on this trip every year is because there is a microwave landing system there which is almost extinct now," said 1st ASF Commander, Lt. Col. Dustin Welsh. "There are still some military installations that use this same system, so it's good training for us."

The lack of qualified inspectors isn't the only challenge when it comes to the yearly McMurdo mission. The environment creates many problems.

"Operations are conducted in extremely cold temperatures, and in an area where weather patterns are constantly changing," said Maj. Brett VanMeter, 1st ASF standards team. "Due to these extreme conditions, the aircraft is operated 24 hour-a-day, stopping only for fuel and a change of crew."

Ensuring navigation aids are performing correctly is crucial in an environment where storms, often referred to by the locals as "herbies," could last for days.

"These storms take visibility down to zero," said VanMeter. "Even vehicle operations are conducted by driving flag to flag."

VanMeter said when a "herbie" is too strong, flight operations cease altogether, however, maintenance crews are required to stay with the aircraft and periodically start the engines to keep them warm so that all aircraft and electronic systems operate normally.

An operation conducted in an environment where there is no discernible horizon is called a 'flat light.' VanMeter said this type of flying makes it hard for pilots to visually determine how high they are above the ground.

"When we fly in an environment like that, a safety pilot is normally aboard to help monitor the radar altimeter and provide another set of eyes for safe operations," he said.

Several runways at McMurdo Station are inspected each year. There is an ice runway that aircraft like the Challengers used by 1st ASF fly. There are also two ski runways and one emergency ski runway that are used during the summer months by ski-equipped C-130s for primary air support.

To further solidify the need for these annual inspections and ensure all systems are working properly, the location at Antarctica has a magnetic variation that is approximately 167 degrees VanMeter said.

"That means when pilots look at their flight instruments on approach, the normal system shows the airfield is behind the aircraft," he added. "That means the pilot has to mentally turn the plane around in their head in order to approach."

All of those variables, plus the constant slow movement of the ice pack on which the runway is, increase the need for yearly inspections.

The small team also deploys on a regular basis to overseas combat zones performing inspections on mobile ground systems ensuring NATO aircraft are getting in and out of theater safely.

"The reason we are part of the Air Force is because the FAA does not have the capability to perform inspections in combat zones," said Welsh. "After being dismantled for many years, the Air Force re-instated these inspection teams in the early 90s because we are a critical part of the mission."

59th Medical Wing supports Army South exercise in Panama

by Army Capt. Sarah Harris

4/30/2013 - PANAMA -- Airmen of the 59th Medical Wing based out of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, were in the municipality of Veraguas, Panama, for the start of the Beyond the Horizon medical readiness training exercise April 16.

BTH 2013 is a U.S. Army South exercise deploying military engineers and medical professionals to Panama for training, while providing services to rural communities. Conducted annually, these missions are part of U.S. Southern Command's humanitarian and civic assistance program.

The 11-day medical readiness training exercise, or MEDRETE, provided medical and dental care to residents in Cerro De Plata, Los Valles and Calobre. The exercise focuses on key health issues in the area, including children's care, nutritional education, basic dental services, hypertension and eye surgery.

"Our goal is to continue to forge that operating team success between the Air Force and Army," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Randy Ivall, who is serving as the officer in charge of this Panama MEDRETE, "Ultimately, at the end of the day, this also prepares us for future missions as well."

"We're expecting about 8,000 patients total by the end of the exercise," said Ivall. "Between the Soldiers and Airmen, we'll get it done."

The exercise was made possible with joint collaboration from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, the Panamanian Ministry of Health and the Panamanian security forces.

Issues such as medication and supplies arriving on time, as well as the language barrier have been a small challenge for the group.

"Our job is to see and take care of as many people as we can," said Master Sgt. Rhonda Bradley, who is in Panama on her second BTH mission, "Although crowd control and language barriers exist, we're still able to make it work."

The exercise brings together Airmen and Soldiers who are experiencing their first BTH as well as those returning for a second and third time.

"It's been great so far," said Maj. Larissa Weir, an OBGYN here on her first BTH mission. "We converted a school into a temporary clinic, so we are now able to take care of the citizens. I'm really enjoying it."

"The most rewarding experience is the appreciation shown by the citizens," said Capt. Karla Dennard, an OBGYN here on her second BTH mission, "My hope is to be able to promote education and self-care in these young females."

The teams will spend three days in Cerro De Plata, another three days in neighboring Los Valles, and finally five days at the final location of Calobre.

"Numbers are important, but they can't tell the entire story," said Ivall, "That cultural exchange that makes us better officers and noncommissioned officers is invaluable."

Faith in Captivity: Vietnam POW inspires 128th ARW Airmen

by Staff Sgt. Jenna Hildebrand
128th Air Refueling

4/26/2013 - MILWAUKEE -- With his hands bound in manacles, an imprisoned Air Force pilot watched from his bamboo holding cell as North Vietnamese soldiers moved a wounded American prisoner into the cell across from his. The pilot was shocked at the man's appearance; his fingers were raw and his body was emaciated. His whole body was covered in wounds; he had been pushing through the jungle for 45 days without food. The pilot did not recognize the new prisoner.

The next morning, the guards had the pilot and his cell mate pick up the new prisoner to take him to the bathroom. The withered man looked over at his fellow prisoner and said, "Aren't you Guy Gruters?"

"Yea, who are you?" Gruters responded.

"Lance Sijan."

Oh no. Not Lance... not Lance, thought Gruters.

Thursday, April 25, Air Force veteran and Vietnam prisoner of war, retired Capt. Guy Gruters, spoke of his tragic yet inspiring experience in captivity to Airmen and civilians assembled in Sijan Hall at the 128th Air Refueling Wing.

Gruters told the audience, which also included members of the 128th's Community Council and distinguished guests including: Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker; Maj. Gen. Donald P. Dunbar, the Adjutant General of Wisconsin; and Janine Sijan Rozina, Sijan's sister, that he and Sijan were in the same squadron at the Air Force Academy for three years. Sijan, a Milwaukee native, was solid as a rock at 210 pounds and had played football for the academy.

"To see him hurt so bad was really difficult," said Gruters. "They would torture him and we would scream in our cells to get them to lay off him and they'd come beat us."

Gruters continued to specify the harsh treatment they received where they were moved to at Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi. Their manacles were on 24 hours a day. They were beat constantly on their wounds. They were only allowed to wash themselves once a week. Parasites, malnutrition and heat rash deteriorated the prisoners' health.

Though Sijan's wounds and health worsened, Gruters said he was always asking what the escape plan was and what he could do to help.

"He was always ready to escape," said Gruters. "We'd always come up with plans just so Lance was satisfied."

Sijan succumbed to the harsh treatment, and died of pneumonia on January 22, 1968.

"Lance's leadership of resistance was perfect," said Gruters. "He fought them until he died. His story was spread throughout the camps over and over again and I think that's what was responsible for a lot of the resistance in the camps."

In the more than five years Gruters spent in captivity, he and his fellow prisoners devised a way to communicate to keep their faith alive. The tap code, which is now taught in military intelligence schools, is based off of the alphabet in a grid system. One person would kneel on the floor to ensure the guards were nowhere nearby while two would tap on the wall to send messages back and forth.

"We did texting, said Gruters. "You know how all the kids do texting now. Every night we tapped GNGBU. Good night, God bless you."

The punishment for communicating was three days and three nights of torture, but the prisoners communicated for hours using the tap code to raise their morale and hold on to their faith.

"The North Vietnamese couldn't conceive of how we did this," said Gruters.

Gruters told his audience that he had the best leadership in that prison camp. The higher ranking officers often took the brunt of the beatings for their men. They encouraged subtle resistance and mandated that they take part in church services within their cells. Their primary order was to return with honor.

After Gruters and 590 POWs were released during Operation Homecoming in 1973, Gruters was instrumental Sijan being awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously in 1976.

Gruters' message to the Milwaukee audience was that leadership and teamwork will prevail. Communication was a key component in the prisoners' survival and in Gruters' presentation.
After much applause, Walker stood up and thanked Gruters for his great contribution and commitment to his country and his faith. Then he addressed the audience.

"Freedom. It's a simple word. It's endowed by our creator. Defined by our constitution more than 225 years ago, but it's defended by men and women like you," said Walker.

Face of Defense: Recruiter Makes Most of Every Day

By Marine Corps Cpl. Adam Leyendecker
1st Marine Corps District

BATAVIA, N.Y., April 30, 2013 – For many Marines, recruiting duty can mean working sunrise to sunset, or in some cases, even later. Many work weekends and sometimes even holidays, sacrificing time that could be spent at home with family.

Marine Corps recruiter Sgt. Curtis D. Bennion points to the “Pride of Belonging” benefit tag during an appointment with an applicant, April 12, 2013. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam Leyendecker   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Marine Corps Sgt. Curtis D. Bennion, a recruiter here at Recruiting Substation Batavia, Recruiting Station Buffalo, 1st Marine Corps District, maximizes the time he has during every day of the week, both as a Marine and as a member of his community.

On Sept. 8, 2004, Bennion, who grew up on a dairy farm in Portageville, N.Y., decided to leave the farm to see what else was out there. That’s when he found himself at a local Marine Corps recruiting office and told the recruiter he wanted to join the military. He said he recalls the recruiter telling him, “Get out, and come back when you want to be a Marine.”

He walked back in 10 minutes later, he said, because he wanted to challenge himself to do something not most people are willing or able to do and to be part of the best.

After joining the Marine Corps, Bennion became a motor transport operator and deployed to Iraq with an explosive ordnance disposal unit in 2004 and 2005. After spending much of the early part of his career away from his home and family due to being called to duty overseas, Bennion now finds himself recruiting in western New York state, where he grew up.

Bennion said he has adapted the same mentality his recruiter had, with a no-nonsense approach.
“I’m not a salesman,” he said. “I offer the Marine Corps as an option, but I don’t get all hyped up and show emotion to sell someone into joining the Corps.”

Bennion’s approach to recruiting has helped him earn one of the top spots among the recruiters at Recruiting Station Buffalo in the last year.

“There is no Marine that works as hard as this guy,” said Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Colombrito IV, a recruiter from Recruiting Substation Batavia. "He doesn’t go to sleep until 11 p.m., and he’s already at the office working out at 5 o’clock in the morning while I am still sleeping.”

Recruiting Station Buffalo officials also have noted Bennion's significant contributions to recruiting reservists and women. Many of his recruits become squad leaders or guides in their boot camp platoons, and he works hard to prepare his “poolees” -- the young men and women waiting to leave for recruit training.

“He’s the poster-boy Marine,” Colombrito said. “He does everything the Marine Corps way. He’s always up in front of the pool, leading his poolees. They all want to emulate Sergeant Bennion.”

When Bennion isn’t recruiting, he is finding ways to become an influence in his community. He is a volunteer firefighter, training for two hours every Monday and putting in 10 hours a week at the department.

Paul Dougherty, the fire chief of the Pavilion Fire Department, said being a volunteer firefighter isn’t an easy task. It takes a willingness to drop whatever you are doing whenever an incident strikes, whether it is in the evening or on weekends and holidays, he added.

On Christmas Day, Bennion woke up at 3 a.m. to attend to a trailer fire, spending six hours helping to put out the flames.

“Bennion’s experience in the Marine Corps has benefited him in being able to adapt to people he doesn’t know to achieve the mission,” Dougherty said. “It is difficult to acquire and retain members, so it is good to see someone like Curtis come along.”

Bennion’s involvement in his community doesn’t stop there. The Medina High School band had him march them onto the field during the New York State Field Band Championships in Syracuse, N.Y. The theme of the song they marched to was a tribute to him and all service members who fought before him and for the ones who will follow.

“Bennion is a Marine from family life to work,” Colombrito said. “He never stops.”

Bennion said his success and his family's success are what drive him to continue to grow into the best Marine, father, husband and man he can be. After recruiting duty, he added, he hopes to become an instructor at his military occupational specialty's school. He also hopes to achieve the rank of master gunnery sergeant someday to continue to lead the future of the Marine Corps, he said.

Realistic training simulates host of scenarios for battle damage unit

by Jenny Gordon
Robins Air Force Base Public Affairs

4/26/2013 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Handpicked from throughout the Air Force, members of the Expeditionary Depot Maintenance team from Robins train all year to remain ready to deploy at a moment's notice.

The highly-specialized aircraft battle damage repair unit trains five times a year to remain proficient in its skills. Its mission is to repair aircraft as quickly as possible and get them back in the air.

About 63 people now make up the maintenance team, which includes engineers, electricians, sheet metal and fuels systems specialists, and crew chiefs who perform structural maintenance work on damaged planes.

The team's most recent training exercises were conducted at Warrior Air Base -- used as a simulated deployed environment.

The week-long event allowed evaluators an opportunity to identify what types of deficiencies existed, how members reacted to various situations such as simulated insurgent attacks and chemical attacks, and how members adapted and overcame barriers.

"What we want to see is if they can make the hard decisions, and also make the right ones," said Tech Sgt. T.J. Barb, an EDMX team member since 2003.

"There is no other unit that has the capability to do what we do. We like to say we don't get ready -- we stay ready," he added. "We're a small unit with a great responsibility. It's a great feeling to know we may have made a difference somewhere in the world, allowing someone to come home, but also making it impossible for a tyrant to gain advantage on any particular day. That's what we're here for."

Sharing in the unique challenges that exist while deployed, Tech Sgt. Mike Reid has been training with the team for the past six years.

"It's something new every time," he said.

Training also includes a group of engineers who deploy with an EDMX team when aircraft experience heavy damage at a location.

"We really get to put our school work to use right away," said 1st Lt. Eric Baker, an engineer and exercise evaluator who will deploy later this year. "This is extremely practical training where we can see an end result in a matter of hours. Young lieutenants don't get opportunities like this very often."

Aeromedical Evac team saves 3-day-old baby

by Tech. Sgt. Aries D. Early
Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, HAWAII -- The mission: get a newborn in dire need of heart surgery from Asia to the West Coast of the U.S. in the least amount of time while ensuring the baby remains in stable condition.

This was the situation Airmen from 735th and 613th Aeromedical Evacuation Teams were faced with April 15, 2013, here.

Pacific Air Force's area of responsibility extends from the west coast of the United States to the east coast of Africa and from the Arctic to the Antarctic, spanning more than 100 million square miles, but covering this distance can be a challenge when providing proper medical care.

The team responded when informed of the urgent requirement to assist in the transport of the 3-day-old baby and a neonatal intensive care unit from Thailand to San Diego, Calif., for heart surgery.

"Staff Sgt. Jerry Marquez, one of our newest team members, took the initial call asking for support," said Master Sgt. Darius Thomas, 613th Aeromedical Evacuation Team Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge. "He had to not only ensure an aircraft was available for the mission, but also process a crew extension waiver through our senior director."

Crew extensions are required when missions exhaust their allotted duty time, which is not hard to do with a mission traveling 11 time zones.

Once the C-17 Globemaster III landed the team had to work with the crew to offload more than 50 passengers and 10 tons of cargo, then refuel the plane with more than 100,000 pounds of fuel, all before realigning the aircraft for the critical care move.

"I was extremely impressed by the 735th Air Mobility Squadron's willingness to do whatever was necessary and they far exceeded any reasonable expectations," said Col. Ken Linsenmayer, 613th Air Mobility division chief.

Linsemayer added that an important component of the success of this mission and any other is attitude.

"Their conduct and determined attitude to execute and support this family is a testament to each member of the 735th AMS' character and integrity and is an outstanding example of military leadership and professionalism," said Linsemayer.

JSTARS: Connecting the dots on battlefield

by Airman 1st Class Alexander W. Riedel
Air Force News Service

4/30/2013 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFNS) -- After slipping by each other the narrow aisle of an E-8C Joint STARS aircraft, more than a dozen Airmen settle into their seats and begin to flip switches and work through checklists. Their olive-green headsets block out the roar of the jet engines and replace it with busy radio chatter as the crew prepares for the mission ahead.

Computer screens in front of them come to life, as their aircraft's radar returns a black and white image of lines, bumps and craters. Additional radar sweeps fill the screen with yellow dots. The clutters they form begin to trace the path of roads and highways.

"The dots are moving target indicators and reflect the information our radar bounces back to us," said Airman 1st Class Cher, an airborne operations technician assigned to the 461st Air Control Wing at Robins Air Force Base, Ga.

Supplying the U.S. military with this elusive type of data is the heart of the Airmen's mission at JSTARS, the Joint Surveillance and Target Attack Radar System.

The secret of Joint STARS is hidden inside the 27-foot long radome tucked underneath the belly of the aircraft that otherwise looks like a regular airliner. Inside, the AN/APY-7 side-looking radar can sweep from one side to the other, transmitting its signal across hundreds of miles.

As the signal bounces off of even slightly moving objects, the antenna picks up every movement, betraying their exact location, no matter whether night or day -- making it impossible for enemies to hide.

"If it moves, we see it," said Lt. Col. Chris Quimby, the director of plans at the 116th ACW. "But we don't just see something and report it. We can act on it immediately."

The mission sounds simple - detecting movement on the ground and relaying that information to other units. But it takes the trained eyes of the crew members of the active-duty 461st ACW and their Air National Guard counterparts of the 116th ACW, to connect the dots in meaningful ways, make out patterns and keep a human eye on the impartial tools of technology.

Airmen turn the radar signal into information that allows commanders to know their troop's position relative to the enemy and early decision making of whether to engage or navigate around danger.

Joint STARS's powerful radar allows the Airmen to survey a wide area with radar, and provide ground forces with an unparalleled look from above.

But the air battle managers aboard the E-8C are more than just remote observers. When necessary, they can act as an air control tower in the sky, de-conflicting air-travel paths and leading aircraft to ground targets across the battlefield.

"We are the one point of contact for the units on the ground," said Major Jon, a mission crew commander with the 461st ACW. "With us in the air, nobody has to find their communication channels; they can just talk to us directly, as a one-stop shop. We're the air to ground experts and without us, the warfighter doesn't have the information he needs -- information that will save their lives."

The aircraft is filled with radar surveillance and communication tools, including 22 radios, six data links, and a secure telephone that connects the Airmen to ground and air commanders.
The Airmen communicate with each other and units far away in highly encrypted chat rooms. Between the flight deck, navigator, radar technicians and operators, their secret chat is a revolving door of communication throughout the aircraft and beyond.

"Even though we may look like we are all zoned into our own spots, we have a lot of communications over the internal nets on the aircraft," Cher said. "The advantage is that it's a more secure way of communicating. It allows you to see all the available parties and to respond when you have the time."

This constant flow of information allows the airborne crew of 20 or more to detect, locate, classify, track and target hostile ground movement from a safe distance. They have no weapons on board and don't need them, as JSTARS is so far away from their target that they never even see or hear the aircraft.

On missions that can last through the night, the analysts spend long hours scanning the ground and managing requests for information -- all while relaying their discoveries to ground troops.

"By being up in the air for extended periods of time, we can collect historical data, and focus on a certain area for hours at a time," said Tech. Sgt. Mike, an airborne radar technician with the 116th ACW. "It is important for us to stay up in the air for long periods of time in order to collect that type of (long-term) data and produce a pattern of life on the ground."

After tracking movement day after day, minor variations may tip off troops to an impending attack when those patterns change or a lone vehicle suddenly stops at an unusual place - Put together with other pieces of intelligence the data can be a gold mine, revealing new enemy sites and routes.

"We look at the history that shows the dots in sequence, looking for anything moving in a certain way," Cher said. "There are specific criteria we look for in these tracks -- something moving towards a road, for example. If that happens, we'll be able to see the dots pop up and 'move' to the road."

This rapidly evolving forensics capability continues to enhance the operational value of Joint STARS' target indicators beyond immediate use while on orbit.

"We can do a sweep of the area, collect dots for several days, so the Army knows in advance how people normally travel, what footpaths and roads they take and what times those roads are busy. So we know when some movement is suspicious," Quimby said.

The ability to glean meaning from the dots is, however, limited by technology. Typical information often only includes speed, heading and size of a column of objects.

After years of radar refinement, a burst of radar energy can be turned into Synthetic Aperture RADAR images, delivering almost photo negative images of the ground, able to show larger structures and contours on the ground. Yet the operators still rely heavily on their training and experience to gain insight into what the dots really mean.

Once the analysts find suspicious tracks, more flexible fighter aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems are therefore cross-cued and become the "eyes" of Joint STARS. This allows the crews to "zoom in" and explore a smaller area of responsibility through thermal or optical imaging for a clear visual identification of points of interests.

For now, JSTARS remains irreplaceable and its scan area unmatched, Mike said.

"Drones are basically looking though a narrow straw," Mike said. "They can only see and survey a very small area at a time. With our radar we can see a broader picture and cover a large area. We give a wide-area surveillance, a wide, big picture of the battle area. If there is anything moving on the ground, we can see it."

The capabilities of Joint STARS are far-reaching and make it more than a warfighting tool. Its ability to detect the infiltration of insurgents from neighboring countries, can also be used to prevent drug traffickers from crossing borders under the cover of night, for example.

In battle, the crews can provide vital support when a service member's life is on the line. With its 360 degree awareness of the battlefield, crash and ambush sites are quickly located, directing rescue crews to the scene while protecting troops from attack.

During Operation Anaconda, the first large-scale battle of the U.S. war in Afghanistan, the flexibility of the crews could support combat search and rescue forces and manage protection of a downed helicopter crew on the ground -- at the same time.

"We were on station and our mission crew commander was the first to talk to the pilots on the ground, setting up a security perimeter around the crash site," said Mike, who was part of the crew during the mission. "The guys on the ground may not know who is coming towards them. For us it was important to provide the big picture, and to make sure that the rescue crews could take care of what they need to do. It's kind of a security blanket, providing piece of mind, to know that Joint STARS is up there watching, making sure no bad guys are coming."

Soldiers' best friend

When Joint STARS is in the air, the rules on the ground change in favor of the Soldiers, the operators said.

"During a deployment with the Army, I really liked doing over watch," Cher said. "We can exactly pinpoint where the Soldiers are and if something is approaching their location, we can immediately tell them 'Hey there is something coming.' That is really rewarding for me because you could potentially save people on the ground because with us in the air they know when somebody is coming."

From inception, Joint STARS' primary purpose was to support the Army in anticipating battlefield movements. By design, Soldiers regularly join Airmen aboard the E-8C to ensure seamless support to ground forces.

"We act as liaison between the Army personnel on the ground and the Air Force mission commander on the aircraft to ensure we are collecting the needed information," said Sgt. 1st Class Bautiste, an analyst assigned to JSTARS. "We try to provide the intelligence requirements the ground commander has to accomplish his mission to be able to focus his troops. Just with my experience as an infantry man, I have a much better understanding of tactics, techniques and procedures, how people are moving on the ground, what they need and what they are looking for."

This experience is equally appreciated by the mission crew commander, who likewise sees the Soldiers as a valuable resource.

"The Army gives us a sense of continuity and expertise," said Maj. Jon. "Having Soldiers on board helps because it prevents misunderstandings and makes us more effective for the troops on the ground."

Joint STARS continuous to evolve

Although originally designed for Cold-War operations and tactics, such as the Fulda Gap in Germany -- where Allied forces prepared to counter a large-scale, tank-based invasion by forces of the Warsaw Pact -- experienced Joint STARS operators have seen many changes to their missions. From the open plains of Iraq to the remote mountain ranges of Afghanistan, Joint STARS has become a growing center piece of intelligence gathering in ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

"Things change constantly. In the early months of (Operation Iraqi Freedom) it was basically ground war, with big convoys coming down the road," Jon said. "Today, in Afghanistan, I'm not looking for convoys, I'm looking for one or two tracks. It's the tactics and procedures developed by people on this aircraft that make us usable in almost any situation. It's the people on the aircraft that make the mission."

Despite its beginning as a support mission for the Army ground forces, Joint STARS crews now increasingly find themselves over water, taking on new maritime missions.

"This is not your 'daddy's Joint STARS,'" said Col. Dean Worley, the commander of the 461st ACW. "The national strategy has emphasized a Pacific shift and there are certain capabilities we will need to control the surface domain, the maritime as well as the air domain. And because of that we are now relearning how to be effective in the 'Air Sea Battle' using our ability to conduct multi-domain operations in the air and at sea, in support of that national strategy."

Radar enhancements now allow Joint STARS to track dots over water - quickly searching large areas for boats and crafts of all sizes and allowing the Navy to increase its ability to see beyond the ships' radar.

"We can look all around a ship and prevent anything from approaching that they can't see," Jon said. "While they have an on-board radar, it can only see so far. We're in the air and we can see much further."

The added capability may soon allow JSTARS to operate theater-wide without limitations. To those who can read the dots, anything that is moving on the ground or at sea seems an open book.

"Having C2/ISR on the same platform provides an amazing capability and no other jet can do exactly what we do," Cher said. "And now, with maritime capabilities, we can be sent to a job and do almost anything that the warfighter needs us to."

Busier than ever before

According to officials, the demand for Joint STARS and the information they glean from the myriad of dots, is only growing. Global demand for "dots" is five times greater than capability to deliver them -- and JSTARS is the biggest producer of GMTI to date. Often Joint STARS is the first aircraft to explore a new battle area and the last to leave.

"The platform has proven so capable because it can do multiple things at the same time," said Col. Kevin Clotfelter, the commander of the ANG 116th ACW. "And a large player in that is the aircrew personnel. It's hard to replace the person on the aircraft, problem solving, delegating, prioritizing tasks and giving clear tasks."

Due to its usefulness, data from Joint STARS missions is used across all combatant commands and teams have been undergoing continuous steady-state deployments since 2001. While taxing on manpower, "Team JSTARS" is going strong, Clotfelter said, strengthened by the cooperation of experienced Guardsmen who stay with the unit for long periods of time and their more mobile active-duty counterparts.

"The Guard is an equal partner. In fact, it takes both wings to fulfill a tasking," Clotfelter said.  "We are meeting (all taskings) together. And the Guard brings some continuity and predictability because (the Guardsmen) are not as susceptible to permanent change of stations as active-duty personnel.

"But at the same time, active-duty personnel bring experience and perspective from the place they left, whether that was a different airframe or a staff job somewhere," he said. "We have the best of both worlds, because we get long-term experience, some predictability, on one hand, but also get a fresh look, and lots of energy and creativity on the other."

While the war may be drawing down in the Middle East, JSTARS tasking are not slowing down and the crews are busy as ever.

"We've been seeing the widest deployment of JSTARS in history," Clotfelter said. "We've seen more Guardsmen deploy at one time than ever before. That means we are more places than we've ever been. I'm proud to say the Guard supports this with a lot of volunteerism and willingness to go to the fight."

A dynamic and relevant mission has kept Airmen of JSTARS engaged and rising to the challenge, Clotfelter said.

"JSTARS is busy right now and, really, we've been busy since 2001," Mike said. "Our mission is important and that makes us feel good about what we do. That's one reason why I volunteer to deploy. We have a real impact on the mission."

To the active-duty and Air National Guard Airmen who make up JSTARS, it's much more than simply connecting the dots and compiling data. It's all about saving lives on the ground.

Student donates hair to less fortunate

by Staff Sgt. Jamal Sutter
23d Wing Public Affairs

4/29/2013 - VALDOSATA, Ga. -- (Editor's note: The mention of Locks of Love and Relay for Life does not constitute endorsement by Moody Air Force Base or the U.S. Air Force.)

With more than 600 of his peers cheering him on in a packed gymnasium, 14-year-old Ian Lamp sat center-court as he parted ways with something that has been part of his identity since age 6 -- his hair.

Ian, Pine Grove Middle School 8th grader and son of Master Sgt. John Lamp, 23d Component Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, cut 14 inches of his hair April 26 for donation to Locks of Love, a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to children suffering from long-term medical hair loss.

"My heart was racing," Ian said. "I was a little bit nervous, but I had to go through with it."

His reason for cutting his hair was to do his part in the fight against cancer. Since he had family members diagnosed with cancer and after one of his 6th grade teachers died from cancer last year, he felt it was the right thing to do.

He made a promise that if any of the sports teams he played for won half of their games, he'd cut his hair, and after his soccer team reached that goal this season, he kept his word.

"While he enjoys his hair, and it's kind of his identity, I thought it was a pretty noble cause that he was willing to donate his hair," Lamp said. "Sometimes you don't think your children have that in them, and I'm very proud as a father that [he decided] to do something like that to give to somebody else."

In addition to giving away his hair, Ian also helped raise $625 for Relay for Life, which was nearly half of what the school raised this school term for the cause. He did this by placing donation bottles in each homeroom leading up to cutting his hair.

"A lot of times in middle school, it's all about 'me,' but for him to be able to raise money for cancer research and survivor's awareness is awesome," said Ken Overman, Pine Grove principal. "He's been with us from 6th through 8th [grade], so we've only known Ian with the long hair. That's his trademark. For him to offer that up, I thought that was a selfless act."

Ian, whose hair measured 22 inches before getting it cut and shaven, also played football and was often compared to a National Football League player who is also known for his long hair.

"I play football, and I play outside linebacker," Ian said. "I'm number 52 just like Clay Matthews, so everyone used to call me Clay. They say I play like him."

After cutting his hair, Ian received a shower of praise and admiration from his fellow students as they thanked and congratulated him for what he did. But there was no bigger supporter of him that day than his own father.

"I can't say enough how proud I am of what he did and what he accomplished in the contributions he's made to Locks of Love and the money he helped raise for the school," Lamp said. "As a father, I'm so proud he put himself aside and did so much for so many no matter how minor it is."

Chaplain races to aid troops: NASCAR makes a pit-stop at JBLE

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

4/30/2013 - JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va.  -- A V-8 engine's roar pierced the serenity of a quiet, cool morning. The NASCAR driver behind the wheel confidently revved the engine as his hand gripped the stick-shift.

This was the day he had waited for since coming to Virginia, a chance to showcase the SupportMilitary.org car to Service members at Joint Base Langley-Eustis with the help of U.S. Air Force Col. Steve West, 633rd Air Base Wing chaplain and founder of the Support Military organization.

The NASCAR team stopped by JBLE on their way up to the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Toyota Owners 400 race at Richmond, Va.

West worked with Dell Hamilton, Support Military co-founder and NASCAR team member, showcasing the number 52 former NASCAR competition vehicle to JBLE.

West and Hamilton created the organization together in August 2012, providing a conduit for outside organizations to be recognized as legitimate and military-friendly. This in turn gives Service members and supporters a reliable outlet to find trustworthy organizations to support. Neither of them expected it to progress so quickly.

"We really have been fortunate," said West. "It makes me happy to see there are so many people out there who are willing to do something for our troops if you just give them direction."

When the NASCAR competition vehicle showed up at JBLE, Service members at Langley and Fort Eustis showed their appreciation.

At Fort Eustis, the number 52 car parked in front of the Exchange, giving viewers a chance to ask questions about the car or just take a peek at the heavily-modified stock car.

"I used to race open-wheel dirt cars," said U.S. Army Spc. Jebediah Thomas-Ziemer, a generator mechanic and NASCAR enthusiast. "Seeing the next step up, I have to admit, is pretty cool."

At Langley, Service members also took the opportunity to share this unique experience with their families.

"It is really nice what they did for us," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Sean Cartwright, 83rd Network Operations Squadron cyber systems operations technician. "Not everyone gets a chance to spend their lunch with their family and a race car."

Cartwright also brought along his 4-year-old son, Nathan, an avid race car enthusiast, to look at the car.

"Nathan really likes race cars, so this is a real treat for him," said Cartwright.

Nathan wasn't the only child to experience the car; children and caretakers from the Bethel Youth Center also saw the car and had a chance to sit in the driver's seat.

"This was an excellent surprise for the kids," said Shanda Misse, youth programs chief. "Once the trailer pulled up, the kids started talking and getting antsy; they really were excited to see the car."

In addition to showcasing the car around JBLE, Blake Koch, the driver for SupportMilitary.org, also took the time to answer questions and share his experience with NASCAR to Service members at the Langley Chapel. He also shared his appreciation for what Service members do every day.

"Without you guys, I wouldn't be able to drive," said Koch. "Knowing that, it is truly an honor to represent you guys any way I can out on the track."

DeRubbio named 2012 AETC Support Civilian of Year

by Dan Hawkins
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

4/30/2013 - SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- An instructional systems designer here has been named the 2012 Air Education and Training Command Support Civilian of the Year.

Albert DeRubbio, 372nd Training Squadron instructional systems designer, found out he won the award from his commander, Maj. Richard Boatman, during a staff meeting.

"I was every bit as surprised as anyone," DeRubbio said. "My package went a lot further than I thought it would after I won the (82nd Training Wing) award."

The Brooklyn, N.Y., native worked on projects that had wide-ranging impact across the 982nd Training Group, including the development of the Royal Saudi Air Force 3-level armament training course and helping lay the groundwork for a computer-based training program for 82nd TRW detachments around the world.

"I worked with the subject matter experts at Seymour-Johnson (Air Force Base) developing the RSAF 3-level armament course," DeRubbio said. "We exchanged a ton of information and formatted it into Air Force documents that could be used for the course and the RSAF students."

The three-level armament course requirements and needs for the RSAF are different than the course currently used for U.S. Air Force students, so designing the course to fit the customer's needs was critical, said DeRubbio.

"Mr. (Scott) Bakos and I put a lot of work into this project," he said.

After identifying a training deficiency with instructional systems design monitors at the group's field training detachment, DeRubbio began working with the 982nd TRGs Instructional Technology Unit (ITU) to create a CBT for use in the field.

"I am responsible for the F-15 and fighter engine training curriculums at our detachments," he said. "Due to permanent change of station moves and other factors, our ISD monitors were experiencing a good deal of turnover and caused a training gap."

With the development of the CBT, the ISD monitors at the detachments are now assured of getting the required training needed for the position.

This is the first major command level award for DeRubbio, who has been in his current position since 2007. He won group and wing-level awards back in 2006 as an instructor with the 361st Training Squadron.

"I give all the credit to everyone I work with," DeRubbio said. "I also want to thank Major Boatman and Master Sgt. Lance Hendricks for putting me in for the award."