Farmland roots bear 80 years of American Freedom

by Staff Sgt. Jason McCasland
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

2/1/2013 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- More than 80 years ago a 22,000-acre cotton field gave birth to more than just the cotton planted by a Northwestern Louisianan, from that fertile soil grew Barksdale Air Force Base and home of the oldest bomb wing of the Air Force.

The dedication of Barksdale Field, in honor of 2nd Lt Eugene Hoy Barksdale, on Feb. 2, 1933, would begin an illustrious career that has housed many units over its 80 year span and has been in many of the country's engagements throughout the military's history.

Even before the official dedication of the base, the 20th Pursuit Group, which later became the 20th Operations Group at Shaw AFB, S.C., began aerial training here with Boeing P-12's for engaging hostile air targets.

By the mid-1930s the 3rd Attack Wing, which is still serving today at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, brought the Curtis A-12 and Northrop A-17 to make Barksdale Field its new home. Both the 3rd Wing and 20th Pursuit Group used Barksdale Field to hone gunnery and bombing skills that would be used in the coming wars.

After November of 1940, Barksdale transitioned into an Air Corps flying school where the airfield trained many of the replacement crews and entire units that were sent downrange to fight in World War II. The 17th Bomb Group, which would later be led by Gen. Jimmy Doolittle, trained here after completing their famous raid on Tokyo.

After the Air Force became its own service in 1947, Barksdale Field was renamed Barksdale Air Force Base in 1948. The following year, Barksdale became the home of the first Air Force strategic reconnaissance and bomber aircraft, the North American RB-45 Tornado, entered into the Strategic Air Command.

A decade later the B-52 landed and set up camp for its permanent home here. After a few years of waiting the 2nd Bomb Wing arrived at Barksdale to form the perfect marriage of wing and plane and promptly sent the eager young aircraft on its missions to Southeast Asia to support missions such as Linebacker II, Arc Light and Young Tiger during the Vietnam War. During the war, the 8th Air Force Headquarters was installed here and began the partnership of more than three decades.

Barksdale has had many accomplishments during these past 80- years some of which include: a visit from space shuttle Columbia in 1990 and space shuttle Endeavor in 2008, Operation Just Cause, Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm where we flew the longest combat sortie in history at that time; 35 hours. Barksdale even provided a safe haven for former President George Bush on Sept. 11, 2001. Barksdale then played a key role in Operation Enduring Freedom providing devastating combat capability.

For the past 80 years Barksdale has paved the way and provided stepping stones for other major commands within the Air Force and continues to enable the success of our expeditionary Air Force. Barksdale and its Airmen will remain ready to conduct air operations - from training and maintaining our wartime proficiencies to ensuring our families are prepared to endure our absence during a deployment.

North Korean Nuke and Missile Tests Undermine Stability

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2013 – North Korea’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs constitute a serious threat to international peace and security and undermine the peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula as well as the Northeast Asia region, officials from the United States, Japan and South Korea said in a joint statement.

The Defense Department issued that statement following the annual Defense Trilateral Talks, held in Tokyo Jan. 30-31.

The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, non-proliferation, the regional security situation and North Korea, according to the release.

The joint statement said if North Korea carries out any further provocations, including a nuclear test, it will bear responsibility for the consequences for disregarding the overwhelming views of the international community.

The United States, South Korea, and Japan will closely coordinate to deter a potential North Korean nuclear test and to respond to ballistic missile threats, according to the release. In this process, the release said, the three countries will closely cooperate with the international community, including China and Russia.

The DTTs are a regular cooperative dialogue between the United States, Japan and South Korea and have been held annually since 2008.

Louisiana Recruiters to Carry Colors at Super Bowl

By Jennifer Villaume Baton Rouge Recruiting Battalion NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 1, 2013 – Local service members will present the nation’s colors to kick off Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes Benz Superdome here Feb. 3. Members of the Joint Color Guard practice for the Super Bowl at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chasse, La., Jan. 15, 2013. U.S. Army photo by Jennifer Villaume    (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. But before the kickoff service members carrying the nation’s colors will march in unison, representing the whole of the military force which preserves that American identity and culture.   “This is a unique experience because this will be the first time I will have the opportunity to work alongside every branch of the Department of Defense and the U.S. Coast Guard,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Antonio Frese. “Usually joint operations involve two to three service components, so this is a rare opportunity to be exposed to all branches.” The Joint Armed Forces Color Guard is made up of local recruiters from each branch which serves New Orleans and surrounding areas. “It is quite an honor to be selected to lead our team in presenting the National Colors at such a huge event. I am a soldier and a recruiter. Not only will I be representing the Army; I am representing what it means to serve,” said Sgt. 1st Class Ervin Davis. “It will be a positive message for all the young men and women watching who may have a desire to serve their country to see the professionalism and pride of our men and women in uniform.” The Joint Armed Forces Color Guard has met for practice two days a week leading up to the Super Bowl at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chase, La. The full dress rehearsal is being conducted today. “Every branch has different drill and ceremony procedures so practice is essential,” Army Staff Sgt. Lester Scott said. For a 10-member color guard practice does make perfect. “We have to be able to execute by time and feel, instead of sight, since we are not standing next to each other,” Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Stephen Howell said. “Many of my friends and family will be watching, and I want them to be proud of my effort. We will be the face of the Marine Corps.” Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Daphne Gilles arrived at her new unit just four months ago. “I am extremely honored that I was selected,” Gilles said. “I was given the position of Captain of Coast Guard District Eight Color Guard and Honor Guard Team upon my arrival. It is a tremendous privilege to represent the Coast Guard.” Even with all the practicing and precision required, to everyone involved it will be a memorable and fun day. “I will be able to point to a large-framed picture on my wall of me holding the Air Force flag at the 50-yard line and say proudly, ‘The United States Air Force trusted in me enough to represent the service in front of 100 million people worldwide.’ It doesn’t get any better than that,” Frese said. The Super Bowl provides a connection to home for many service members deployed overseas. “I have been deployed twice, both for one year each. I missed my baby’s birthdays and other special events. The Super Bowl was the only event that I requested off while overseas, knowing that we were all watching together,” Scott said. “Something about this football game brings us all together no matter what is going on. This game has meant the world to me by connecting me to home, and now I get to be a rifle man next to the American flag. It is an honor.” This year, they get to watch together. Scott’s two children will be in the Superdome cheering on their dad. Other Joint Armed Forces Color Guard team members include: -- Staff Sgt. Joshua Reyes, U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion, New Orleans Company; -- Gunnery Sgt. Toland Howard, U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Battalion, Baton Rouge Company; -- Petty Officer 2nd Class Holly Diaz, U.S. Navy Recruiting Battalion, New Orleans Company; -- Staff Sgt. Adrian Munoz, U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Battalion, Baton Rouge Company; and -- Lance Cpl. Randy West, U.S. Marine Corps Band, New Orleans. Since the Superdome opened in 1975, it was the site of six Super Bowls. The “dome” underwent a six-year major renovation after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. It is now the fifth largest NFL stadium in the country.

Fairchild helicopter pilot wins AETC award Posted 2/1/2013 Updated 2/1/2013 Email story Print story Share by Senior Airman Mary O'Dell 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs 2/1/2013 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE- Wash. -- A helicopter pilot from the 36th Rescue Flight was awarded the Air Education and Training Command Aviator Valor Award for the year 2012. Capt. Ashly Barnes, the standardization and evaluation liaison officer, 36th Rescue Flight, distinguished herself as a pilot during a mission to save the life of a United States Air Force survival student who suffered a severe head injury. "It's a bittersweet business because we never want to have to search for a missing person or medically evacuate an injured student, but that's what we're here for," said Barnes. On Aug. 10, a 26-year-old Airman in training to be a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist tripped, fell over a log and struck his head on the ground. He vomited and became lethargic and confused. Due to the mountain's high density altitude and the nature of the medical evacuation, the risk for this mission was assessed as high. Barnes and her crew had to be hastily recalled to do the rescue. Flying at maximum airspeed, the crew arrived on scene within 20 minutes. The student, located at about 6,000-feet elevation, could not be hoisted alone because of his deteriorating condition. As the patient was being lifted, the helicopter descended toward the trees. Barnes skillfully walked the aircraft forward, to keep her survivors safely suspended over the trail surrounded by 100-foot trees. "We learn a lot from all of our missions and we are always tailoring our training so we're better prepared for the next one," said Barnes. The Minnesota native said she didn't always want to fly, but became a UH-1N Iroquois helicopter pilot after she graduated from the Air Force Academy. "I enjoy what I do," said Barnes. "We have the most diverse Huey mission in the Air Force here at Fairchild Air Force Base." Barnes said she's honored to win this award, but that every mission they accomplish is a team effort and in her eyes, the entire rescue flight and 336th group won this award. According to her award package, Barnes performed 40 days of MEDEVAC alert during eight temporary duty assignments, totaling 271.2 flight hours for the year. She has also trained more than 4,900 SERE students and 23 SERE specialist training candidates. The RQF also assists with civil search and rescue, hoists, rappelling, parachute operations and other aircrew proficiency training to maintain mission readiness. "Captain Barnes' determination and hard work enabled her to upgrade from a co-pilot to an instructor pilot within a single year," said Maj. Matthew Johnson, the 36th RQF commander. "Such a feat is rarely accomplished and then only by the best of pilots."

by Senior Airman Mary O'Dell
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

2/1/2013 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE- Wash. -- A helicopter pilot from the 36th Rescue Flight was awarded the Air Education and Training Command Aviator Valor Award for the year 2012.

Capt. Ashly Barnes, the standardization and evaluation liaison officer, 36th Rescue Flight, distinguished herself as a pilot during a mission to save the life of a United States Air Force survival student who suffered a severe head injury.

"It's a bittersweet business because we never want to have to search for a missing person or medically evacuate an injured student, but that's what we're here for," said Barnes.

On Aug. 10, a 26-year-old Airman in training to be a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist tripped, fell over a log and struck his head on the ground. He vomited and became lethargic and confused.

Due to the mountain's high density altitude and the nature of the medical evacuation, the risk for this mission was assessed as high. Barnes and her crew had to be hastily recalled to do the rescue.

Flying at maximum airspeed, the crew arrived on scene within 20 minutes. The student, located at about 6,000-feet elevation, could not be hoisted alone because of his deteriorating condition.

As the patient was being lifted, the helicopter descended toward the trees. Barnes skillfully walked the aircraft forward, to keep her survivors safely suspended over the trail surrounded by 100-foot trees.

"We learn a lot from all of our missions and we are always tailoring our training so we're better prepared for the next one," said Barnes.

The Minnesota native said she didn't always want to fly, but became a UH-1N Iroquois helicopter pilot after she graduated from the Air Force Academy.

"I enjoy what I do," said Barnes. "We have the most diverse Huey mission in the Air Force here at Fairchild Air Force Base."

Barnes said she's honored to win this award, but that every mission they accomplish is a team effort and in her eyes, the entire rescue flight and 336th group won this award.

According to her award package, Barnes performed 40 days of MEDEVAC alert during eight temporary duty assignments, totaling 271.2 flight hours for the year. She has also trained more than 4,900 SERE students and 23 SERE specialist training candidates.

The RQF also assists with civil search and rescue, hoists, rappelling, parachute operations and other aircrew proficiency training to maintain mission readiness.

"Captain Barnes' determination and hard work enabled her to upgrade from a co-pilot to an instructor pilot within a single year," said Maj. Matthew Johnson, the 36th RQF commander. "Such a feat is rarely accomplished and then only by the best of pilots."

Scott firefighters save mechanic's life

by Airman 1st Class Jake Eckhardt
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

1/30/2013 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- A team of firefighters raced down the flightline at the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing to arrive at what looked like a normal KC-10, but the real emergency was inside the plane.

Firefighters deployed from Scott Air Force Base, assigned to the 380th Expeditionary Wing Civil Engineer Squadron fire department, rescued an unconscious maintainer inside the belly of the aircraft.

Airman 1st Class Jeffery Simcoe, 375th CES firefighter, said, "When we got the call, we were told that it was a medical emergency. That's all the dispatcher knew at the time."

They were told that the victim was incapacitated outside the aircraft, but when the rescue crew arrived at the scene, they found the victim not outside, but inside the fuel-cell of the plane.

Staff Sgt. James Fligor, 375th CES fire department crew chief, said, "When we got there, the crew was still determining how to get in the aircraft--we had to get in there."

The crew climbed a ladder to reach the belly of the aircraft. From there, they had to move through four small, fuel-soaked passages connected by a small corridor that had just enough room for one person to crouch in.

"I thought the passageways were vents," Simcoe said. "They were just big enough to put your arms through and slide in."

To reach the unconscious maintainer, the firefighters removed their protective gear except for their breathing apparatuses. They also removed the air tanks from their backs to strategically maneuver their way through the passages.

After 15 minutes of struggling with the firefighter's tanks, the maintainers hooked up their on-board supply air respirator, to allow the firefighters to move through the passages easier because of its 300-foot hose instead of the 2-foot hose they had before.

"When we got to him I thought he was dead," Simcoe said. "He was face-first in this pool of fuel. He wasn't moving."

The victim had passed out because of exposure to the fuel and heat.

The team placed a self-contained breathing apparatus on the unconscious airman after verifying he was still alive. The team also began the tedious task of getting him out.

"Once he started to stabilize, we moved him," Fligor said. "By that time, my team and I had to leave because our air bottles were running out, so we were replaced by two other guys."

Teams of two rotated in to drag the victim out of the fuel cell, because the teams only had a limited amount of air to use on the maintainer, forcing them to trade out for more oxygen.

"After he woke up a little, he was disoriented and didn't know where he was, so he fought back a little," Airman 1st Class Kendall Fair, 375th CES firefighter, said. "He was pulling off the mask we put on him. We understood the situation that was happening, but he didn't."

Forty-five minutes and three teams later, the firefighters pulled him out to safety. The maintainer was sent to the hospital and made a full recovery by the next day.

"It was the first time I have ever saved a life," Fair said. "It made me like my job even more. Day-to-day gets pretty slow sometimes, but when you do get that call it makes it all worth it."

Innovative Thinking: 19th OG converts to 4-day fly week, increases training

by Staff Sgt. Jacob Barreiro
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

1/31/2013 - LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Nearly a year ago, the 19th Operations Group at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., truncated their fly-week from five days to four, leaving one day a week explicitly dedicated to training. Group leaders said the switch has led to increased training rates and improved deployment readiness, while saving taxpayer dollars.

Lt. Col. Toby Sernel, 19th OG deputy commander, said the change came about after examining the efficiency of the group's five-day flight week.

"What we saw with the five-day fly week, was ... our flying and training was not as efficient as it could be," said Sernel.

The group determined that with a little flexibility they could simultaneously improve their training and make more efficient use of their flying hours, and thus the four-day fly week, with every Friday dedicated to training, was born.

"What we wanted to do was come up with a way to improve our deployment readiness," said Sernel. "We wanted to improve the training that our C-130 members were getting at our four flying squadrons here."

Previously the 19th OG dedicated just one day to training a quarter, which led to bloated schedules and a dearth of time, said Sernel.

"They (the old 19th OG's training days) were jam-packed with stuff," he said. "Maybe we got 30 minutes to do two hours of training on top of 30 minutes to do another four-hour training block. It really wasn't very efficient or effective."

Allowing for a training day every Friday has led to more relevant, focused and thorough training for the 19th OG, from the group level to the squadron level down to the individual, said Sernel.

"We've increased training 12 to 14 fold of what we had before," he said. "The benefits extend to everyone throughout the group."

While more time for training and interaction at a ground level is a good thing for Airmen and their supervisors, decreasing the flight week from five to four days means packing what was previously five days of work into four. To execute this plan required innovation and focused planning, and it's a challenge the 19th OG met, said Sernel.

"What we did was pack five days worth of flying into four days," he said. "To do this we had to focus on certain events on certain days. In a lot of ways this made us improve our planning because a four-day fly week requires greater focus and planning at the group and squadron level."

After nearly a year of flying one less day a week, Sernel said he thinks the Airmen of the 19th OG are even better prepared to go to war than they were before, while saving time and money.

"We're getting the same, if not more focused, training in those four days," he said. "Our crews are more prepared for CENTCOM AOR now than they were a year ago. We've saved 640 flight hours in calendar year 2012. We're doing what we can to make more effective and efficient use of our flying training hours; those are expensive hours."

Sernel said the 19th OG typically completed 95 percent of their training requirements in years past. From July - Dec 2012 the group produced a 98 percent completion rate. He credits this to increased focus in training.

"We're getting more precise, more focused, more realistic training on par with previous year's completion rates in four days," said Sernel. "That's a good thing."

The benefits from the four-day fly week extend from the top down, said Sernel. 19th OG Airmen, at the group and squadron level, are getting more time for professional development. Another added bonus is the group is able to maximize the use of the flight simulators on base, a move that allows flyers to log realistic training while saving taxpayer dollars.

While the move to a four-day fly week has benefited the 19th OG immensely, Sernel said the innovative program extends benefits to other groups on base as well.

"The Maintenance Group and the Mission Support Group reap benefits," he said. "They have more time to take care of training, more time to take care of airplanes. They have more time to focus on what they need to do on that day."

More time for training, improved efficiency of mission and training time, and helping their Airmen improve their careers is what the move was all about, said Sernel, and nearly a year into the switch, the plan appears to be working.

"There are benefits at all levels," he said. "Commanders get more time with their people. Supervisors get more time with their flights, whether they're loadmasters, or pilots or (Aircrew Flight Equipment) technicians. There are a lot of support agencies in the ops group that get time with their supervisors they wouldn't get every week if we flew five days a week. By taking a break, I think everyone would say it's a good thing to get more time with their leadership, getting more time to do what we call unit maintenance."

Air Force to hold meetings on proposed F-16 transfer

Release Number: 010213

2/1/2013 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  -- The U.S. Air Force is holding a series of public meetings in the Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska, communities to invite public comment on potential environmental impacts of a proposed transfer of an F-16 aircraft squadron.

The Air Force is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement on a proposal to relocate the 18th Aggressor Squadron from Eielson Air Force Base, near Fairbanks, Alaska, to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, in Anchorage, Alaska. Under the proposal, the Air Force would plan to re-size the remaining wing overhead and base operating support functions at Eielson in fiscal year 2015. The EIS will also consider a No Action alternative, which is to keep the squadron at Eielson. No decision has been made on the proposed move. The EIS is part of a process required of federal agencies under the National Environmental Policy Act.

The Air Force is proposing the move to reduce defense spending and support congressionally mandated deficit reductions, as outlined in the Budget Control Act, and as part of its priority to prepare for future challenges and protect the broad range of U.S. national security interests.

The 18th Aggressor Squadron consists of 18 assigned F-16 aircraft, three back-up F-16s, and associated support and maintenance Airmen. The proposed relocation includes removing 623 military personnel from EAFB in fiscal year 2014, transferring approximately 542 positions to JBER, and eliminating 81 positions. Beginning in fiscal year 2015, the Air Force proposes an additional reduction of approximately 749 military and 179 civilian authorizations at EAFB appropriate to the command structure required for the remaining operations. Current planning estimates call for a proposed end state of approximately 769 appropriated funds personnel at EAFB after FY15 (559 military members and 210 civilians).

If the proposal is ultimately approved, Eielson will continue to host the Red Flag and Distant Frontier training exercises with the 18th Aggressor Squadron operating out of JBER under one of two possible alternatives. Under Alternative A, the F-16 aircraft would fly to and from exercises using aerial refueling. The participating F-16 aircraft would not routinely land at Eielson for refueling. Under Alternative B, the 18th Aggressor Squadron would deploy to Eielson for the duration of the exercises.

Under either alternative, the aircraft would operate in the same air space as currently used for Red Flag and Distant Frontier exercises. Transient aircraft and personnel from outside of Alaska participating in these exercises would continue to deploy to and operate out of Eielson.

To effectively define the full range of issues to be evaluated in the EIS, the Air Force will determine the scope of the analysis by soliciting comments from interested local, state and federal agencies, as well as members of the public. The Air Force's public scoping meetings will provide the public with an opportunity to learn about the proposal and participate in the process by providing input. Public input supports the Air Force in making informed decisions.

During the scoping meetings which are open to the public, the Air Force will describe the NEPA process and outline opportunities for public involvement throughout the process. Scoping meetings and the dates and times for each meeting are provided below.

 February 4, 2013
6:00 - 9:30 p.m. with the presentation at 7:00 p.m.

Alaska State Fairgrounds
Glenn Highway, Hoskins Building
Palmer, Alaska

February 5, 2013
6:00 - 9:30 p.m. with the presentation at 7:00 p.m.

Tyson Elementary School
2801 Richmond Avenue
Anchorage, Alaska

February 6, 2013
12:00 - 3:30 p.m. with the presentation at 12:30 p.m.
AND
6:00 - 9:30 p.m. with the presentation at 7:00 p.m.

Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge
Edgewater and Jade Rooms
4477 Pikes Landing Road
Fairbanks, Alaska

February 7, 2013
6:00 - 9:30 p.m. with the presentation at 7:00 p.m.

North Pole High School
601 North Pole High School Boulevard
North Pole, Alaska

Each scoping meeting includes a half hour presentation and approximately three hours for an open house and oral public comments. The presentation will provide information on the purpose and reasoning behind the F-16 relocation proposal and an explanation of the NEPA process. The public will be provided an opportunity to provide oral comments on the analysis process to help identify potential environmental impacts. Community members will be able to relay information directly to Air Force members during this time.

Public comments are encouraged and will be accepted either verbally or in writing at the scoping meetings. Comments may also be provided via mail to the point of contact listed below. The Air Force will accept comments at any time during the environmental process. However, to ensure the Air Force has sufficient time to consider public input in the preparation of the Draft EIS, please submit comments to the below point of contact by March 1, 2013.

Mr. Allen Richmond, AFCEC/CZN
2261 Hughes Ave, Ste. 155,
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-9853
Telephone: (210) 395-8555

For further information please go to http://www.afcec.af.mil/f-16_eielson_eis/index.asp

605th AMXS breaks ice

by Airman Sean M. Crowe
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs

1/31/2013 - JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The 605th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron works through less-than-ideal weather conditions to ensure the 305th Air Mobility Wing's mobility mission continues.

Aircraft deicing has come a long way in recent years said Master Sgt. Kenyon Blough 605th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron lead production superintendent.

Aircraft maintainers historically would drive simple cherry pickers to the aircraft, and then spray them down with hoses from the bucket. Maintainers now use global deicing trucks which have an enclosed compartment to control the automateddeicing nozzle, said Blough.
The 605th AMXS's service members ensure all aircraft here are free of frost and ice shortly before takeoff during the winter.

"We hold a meeting regarding the snow a week or two before the first predicted snowfall," said Blough. "We schedule deicing teams and ensure the global deicing trucks are postured for use."

Deicing teams comprise three-man teams: a global deicing truck driver, a spotter on the ground and a bucket operator who controls the deicing nozzle.

The deicing nozzle is not a water gun. The deicing nozzle uses a combination of hot air and Type 1 deicing fluid to accomplish the mission.

"Deicing fluid is more efficient at melting ice and in turn more cost effective," said Blough. "It's even more effective when propelled by hot air making the device twice as efficient as past technology."

A team sets out to deice an aircraft in the one-hour window prior to takeoff. The deicing team is notified by the maintenance operating center anytime there is frozen precipitation on an aircraft. Staff Sgt. Steven Betz, 605th AMXS flying crew chief, described a typical deicing sequence.

"The operator begins spraying at the aircraft's nose and works his way to the tail," said Betz. "We let gravity help us on our mission spraying from the top and moving down. We focus on critical areas including the flight controls and hydraulic systems as these are crucial to flight. The spotter on the ground ensures the sprayer doesn't miss any areas he might not have the best view of. We then finish by coating the aircraft in Type 4 anti-icing fluid."

Type 4 anti-icing fluid is a liquid agent which prevents the plane from icing over again before takeoff, whereas Type 1 deicing fluid is solely used for the initial deicing.

"The aircrew then double checks the aircraft to ensure we did a thorough job," said Betz.
The 605th AMXS ensures 305th Air Mobility Wing aircraft readiness throughout the New Jersey winters here. Leadership credits their mission's success to the junior service members who work tirelessly in freezing temperatures to deice aircraft.

"It takes a great deal of coordination to accomplish the timely process, from the superintendents all the way down to the truck operators," said Betz.

Hagel: Accountability Key Factor to Defense Management

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2013 – Accountability is at the heart of managing the Defense Department, former Nebraska Sen. Chuck Hagel told the Senate Armed Services Committee yesterday.

Hagel, President Barack Obama’s choice to succeed retiring Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, provided eight hours of testimony to the Senate panel.

Senators asked Hagel how he will manage the largest institution in the United States.

Hagel said you don’t really manage the department, you lead it.

“It’s not about me. The secretary of defense, he leads, he advises the president, but it’s really about the people who have the accountability and the responsibility to manage every aspect of our defense apparatus,” Hagel said.

The department has roughly 50 presidential appointees, so that leaves most of the day-to-day management to officers and senior civilians, and those officials must be accountable, he said.
“We’re all accountable, and the emphasis on accountability I don’t think could ever be overstated,” Hagel said.

It is important to give managers the resources they need and the flexibility to make the best use of them, he said.

“You give them direction and expectations … but not to the point where you don’t want their input and their ability to be flexible with their management,” Hagel said. “I think that's the … key to anything, but surely it is the key to something as large as the Department of Defense.”

Hagel said he has a lot of learning to do if he is confirmed as the next defense secretary.

“I will be the leader. I’ll be responsible. I’ll be accountable,” he said. “But I’ve got to rely on the right teams, the right people, bring those people together.”

AF selects primary, alternate test pilot school candidates

by Debbie Gildea

Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – More than 50 Air Force officers have been selected as primary or alternate Air Force and Navy test pilot school selectees, and one will attend the Epner Test Pilot School in France, Air Force Personnel Center officials said today.

“Selectees, identified during the 2012 selection board, will fill July 2013 and January 2014 classes,” Howard Peterson, AFPC pipeline and trainer assignments.

The program exists to develop specially trained pilots, combat systems officers, flight test engineers and remotely piloted aircraft pilots to monitor, manage, and perform flight tests on research, experimental or production-type aerospace vehicles and weapon systems, Peterson said.

“Graduates have profound strategic impact on the development of future combat capabilities,” “so selection is highly competitive,” Peterson explained. “Program graduates are future senior leaders who will help shape our national security, so identifying the right people for this opportunity was critical.”

New chief selects attend AFGSC orientation

by Airman 1st Class Joseph A. Pagán Jr.
AFGSC Public Affairs

2/1/2013 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Chief master sergeant selects from Air Force Global Strike Command bases and units attended a 4-day orientation course this week at Barksdale AFB.

The course was intended to teach the chief's tools to help them lead at the top level of the Air Force enlisted rank.

"As a chief master sergeant, especially the new chiefs, we have to continue to develop," said Chief Master Sgt. Brian Hornback, AFGSC Command Chief. "There are tools they will need to lead at the highest level of enlisted rank."

The 31 chief selects in attendance learned the importance of not only being a chief from an AF level but also from a command level.

"It is important we teach them about our MAJCOM because we have certain expectations of our chiefs," said Hornback. Each MAJCOM has a different focus and he said there is "a special trust and responsibility" within this command.

The orientation replaces the Chiefs Leadership Course, formerly taught at Maxwell AFB, Ala.

"The challenge was having the funding to get all the chief selects in the AF together," said Hornback. "Soon, chiefs coming up will be able to get an orientation from both their MAJCOM and a big AF institution."

He added when he attended the Chief Leadership Course they mainly focused on why chiefs were important to the AF and not enough about the MAJCOM they were working for.

Senior Master Sgt. Ray Lapham, 2nd Maintenance Group Weapons Manager, an attendee and chief select, he said he believed the course at AFGSC would teach him about his responsibility within his MAJCOM as opposed to being with chiefs from another command.

"It has been a great opportunity to be here with peers and with chiefs who have a lot of experience," said Lapham. "I've learned about our roles for AFGSC and what it takes to make what you do a little bit better for the lives of your people both professionally and personally."

Senior Master Sgt. Brian Cerney, 28th Comptroller Squadron superintendent, Ellsworth AFB, is a chief master sergeant select who is moving to the AFGSC headquarters in February.

"Since I'm coming into Global Strike, having the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the nuclear enterprise and the leaders within the command has been invaluable," he said.

This year, there were 1,981 senior master sergeants eligible for promotion. Only about 1 percent of the enlisted force achieves the rank of chief master sergeant.

Deployed Troops Resist ‘Groundhog Day’ Mindset

By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2013 – It’s a running joke among many deployed troops: every day feels like Groundhog Day. Army Pfc. Jesse Wilkins, right, assigned to the 25th Signal Battalion in Kabul, shoots pool with Army Spc. Wayne Thompson of the 810th Medical Detachment. Wilkins said he strives to keep his deployment interesting and resist falling into a rut that could lead to complacency and impact the mission. U.S. Army photo by Capt. Marvin Baker   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. Tomorrow, as Punxsutawney Phil emerges from hibernation to check for his shadow, many U.S. forces in Afghanistan will feel like they’re characters in the old “Groundhog Day” movie in which Bill Murray plays a weatherman who repeatedly relives Feb. 2.   They’ll rise from their same bunks, put on their same uniforms, eat the same chow at the same dining facility and conduct the same mission they do every single day throughout their deployments. But most say they make concerted efforts to break the routine – not only to keep their sanity, but to keep their edge in a tough operational environment. Several deployed service members spoke by telephone with American Forces Press Service today, describing the strategies they use to stay sharp. Just one week into his nine-month deployment to Afghanistan’s Ghazni province in Regional Command East, Army Sgt. Andrew Tobin said he’s already adjusting to a familiar routine. He wakes up each morning at about 7, shaves and showers, then heads off to work. “You hope to fall into a good routine and you just fall into the groove,” said Tobin, who already knows the ropes after a yearlong deployment in 2010. “You roll day to day and forget what number day it is and you forget what day of the week it is. It’s just another day.” But with bad weather grounding aircraft that would ferry Tobin and his fellow troops to their advise-and-assist mission with Afghan national security forces, he admits that he’s already starting to get a case of cabin fever. Army Sgt. Ramel Thomas, who’s almost midway through his second one-year deployment to Afghanistan, understands that all too well. He spent his first one-year deployment in Kabul, overseeing food service operations at a dining facility. “It can feel like Groundhog Day,” if you don’t try to break up the monotony, he said. Thomas said the variety of his current deployment, assigned as a driver and liaison for the 3rd Infantry Division at the International Security Assistance Force Joint Command headquarters in Kabul, offers a reprieve. The work is interesting and challenging, he said, and gives him the chance to learn new skills. “You have to stay sharp,” he said. “I take pride in what I do with my job, and at the same time, it is helping my time go fast. I am always learning, and the military is all about learning.” Air Force Col. Ginger Wallace, operations branch chief for ISAF’s Force Reintegration Cell, said regularly getting “outside the wire” to work with the Afghans gives her more diversity than many deployed service members. “I’m lucky because the job is different almost every day,” she said. “I get to work with the Afghans every day, so it’s not a job that confines us to a FOB or base.” But when she returns to her base, Wallace, too, experiences the routine of deployment. “We go to the same dining facility every day, the same laundry service every day, the same gym every day,” she said. “For the most part we work, we eat, we sleep and we work out. That is about it.” The problem, many deployed services members said, is that too much routine can spill into the mission. “You definitely can’t fall into complacency, and there is definitely no room for that on the battlefield,” said Tobin, who’s assigned to Cross-functional Team Warrior at Forward Operating Base Arian. “Just because you patrol the same area every day doesn’t mean that if nothing happened yesterday that something won’t happen today. You definite have to stay vigilant and situationally aware of everything.” “If you don’t break the routine a little bit, you can lose that edge,” agreed Air Force Maj. Demetrius Mizell, joint secretariat liaison officer with the Force Integration Cell in Kabul. “Especially being out here and doing what we do, it could be the difference between life and death.” Every deployed service member has his or her own formula for keeping every day of deployment from becoming a carbon copy of the last, Tobin said. “Some go to the gym to relieve stress. Some like to read a book or watch movies,” he said. “It’s all about staying sharp and not driving yourself crazy.” Variety can come in many forms. When  Mizell, found himself eating the exact same breakfast every single day – French toast, bacon, one egg and yogurt – he intentionally started throwing in an occasional breakfast burrito or bowl of oatmeal, he said. For many deployed troops, Mizell said, communicating with loved ones at home is the biggest way to break routine. He called Friday morning Skype sessions with his wife and 7-year-old son the highlight of his weeks. Tobin said he avoids routine, even when calling home. “I try not to set a pattern that I’ll call on this day at this time because if I break that pattern, people back home will worry,” he said. “And the last thing I want to do is cause them any more worry than I already have.” A month after arriving in Afghanistan, Army Pvt. Jesse Wilkins is taking the advice he’s received to heart. “They told us that you have to mix it up during deployment,” said Wilkins, assigned to the 25th Signal Battalion in Kabul. “They said that if you do the same thing every day, and you just stay in your room on the computer watching movies or YouTube all day, it’s not a good idea because you could go insane.” So after getting off his night shifts, he treats himself to one episode of the old Dragon Ball TV series he downloaded to his cell phone. But he also hits the post exchange, shoots pool at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center and is learning to play guitar. “It’s very important to mix it up and try something new,” he said. “If you like working out, try taking a Crossfit class. If you want to learn a new language, try learning French. You can go to the education center and take college courses and better yourself while you are out here.” After pulling his 12-hour shifts through the night, Thomas said, he spends much of his time on professional development and using tuition assistance to pick up college courses. Army Capt Morgan Samuels, a rotor wing current operations liaison with the ISAF Joint Command, said she’s taking advantage of serving on a NATO compound by increasing her own language skills. She’s teaching German to a Canadian officer, who in turn is teaching Samuels French. It’s fun, breaks up the monotony and fends off complacency that could affect the mission, she said. “Keeping yourself busy keeps your mind fresh, and by keeping your mind fresh, it helps you do your job,” she elaborated. “So when things come up, you’re able to react fast because you haven’t allowed yourself to get ‘too settled in.’” As they resist falling into that trap, many deployed troops say the best way is to lean on each other. They hang out together and look forward to special events they plan, such as Thursday night pizza-and-movie nights at Wallace’s and Mizell’s office. The biggest secret to resisting Groundhog Day, Mizell said, is to keep a positive outlook. “Everyone has a good sense of humor, so we do a lot of laughing,” he said. “If you come to this building, you probably hear more laughing than in any other building, because we know you have to have fun. You have to keep your sense of humor.”

Face of Defense: Airman Plans Journey to Top of World

By Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Cloys
50th Space Wing

SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Jan. 31, 2013 – The Tibetans call it "Chomolungma," meaning "Mother Goddess of the World." GPS equipment measures its peak at 29,035 feet.

Air Force Capt. Colin Merrin, a member of the U.S. Air Force Seven Summits Challenge team, stands at the summit of Mount Rainier in the state of Washington. He plans to reach the summit of Mount Everest in May 2013. Courtesy photo   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

If all goes well for Air Force Capt. Colin Merrin, Mount Everest soon will be a line on his mountaineering resume that can't be topped.

 

Merrin, a GPS operator from the 2nd Space Operations Squadron here, will begin the journey of a lifetime at the end of March. But before getting a call from the U.S. Air Force Seven Summits Challenge, he said, reaching the top of Mount Everest didn’t appeal to him.

"It's really commercialized," he explained. "Everest also has a bit of a weird stigma to it."

Had the call come from anyone else, he said, he might have declined the invitation. But after hearing the greater cause, he added, he reconsidered.

The U.S. Air Force Seven Summits Challenge is an independent Air Force team whose vision since its creation in 2005 has been to reach seven famed summits and plant the American and Air Force flags. They climb to promote camaraderie and esprit de corps among airmen, highlight personal fitness and growth, and honor friends and colleagues who have died in the line of service since 9/11.

The group also supports the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a charity that provides full scholarship grants and educational and family counseling to the surviving children of special operations personnel who have died. The organization also provides financial assistance to those severely wounded and their families.

"My primary motivation was the foundation," Merrin said. "Climbing Everest has become a great way to support them, as well as the team."

If successful in their endeavor, Merrin's crew will become the first team of active-duty American military members to have reached Everest’s summit. The Seven Summits team also will be the first from any nation to have reached the top of all seven famous mountains that make up its quest. The others are Mount Elbrus, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Aconcagua, Mount McKinley, Mount Vinson and Mount Kosciuszko.

The journey to Everest’s peak doesn't start at the base of the mountain, Merrin said. It starts months, sometimes even years, before.

"Everest isn't a mountain you can just go [climb]," he said. "I started training hard three months before the trip to Mount Everest. I try to keep my training as specific as possible. If you want to get better at bench pressing, you bench press. If you want to get better at climbing mountains, you climb."

For Merrin, Colorado Springs is a perfect training ground. With the base camp of Everest sitting at 17,500 feet, Pikes Peak serves as a good starting point for getting acclimated to higher elevations.
Because of the dangers associated with Mount Everest, climbers are encouraged to have glaciated mountain experience as well as high-altitude mountain climbs. In February 2011, Merrin was able to test his body's response to extremely high altitudes when he reached the 22,841-foot summit of Aconcagua in Argentina’s Andes mountain range.

"The human body is not designed to endure the sort of conditions you find past 18,000 feet. There's about 40 percent of the normal amount of oxygen, but my body did well," Merrin said. "Knowing that reassures me for Everest."

Though some dangers are out of his control, Merrin said, he draws confidence from the quality of his team.

"The team I'm going with is a strong group of elite climbers," he said. "There's a strong focus on risk management and safety."

Officials with the 50th Space Wing here are extending their support to Merrin and the Seven Summits team.

"I am extremely proud of Captain Merrin. It's a mind-bending prospect, if you think about it, to have a team of airmen standing on the top of the world's tallest mountain," said Air Force Lt. Col. Thomas Ste. Marie, the 2nd Space Operations Squadron commander. "The fact that Colin is a GPS operator is even more fitting."

The first leg of Merrin's journey is set to begin with a two-week, 40-mile trek to Everest's base camp and an acclimation climb up nearby Mount Lobuche at the end of March.

12th FTW goes the distance to honor Airmen, saves $30K

by Bekah Clark
12th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

1/30/2013 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas  -- Like most wings the 12th Flying Training Wing honors their annual award winners every January in a ceremony that highlights their achievements from the last year.
However, when time came to plan this year's ceremony the wing had a new challenge to face: how to get everyone there.

Unlike many wings, 12th FTW personnel aren't all stationed in the same place. In fact, approximately two-thirds of the wing's personnel aren't stationed anywhere near their parent wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. Instead members of the 479th and 306th Flying Training Groups call Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla. and the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., home.

In years past, the wing hosted their annual awards ceremony the night prior to the Air Education and Training Command Symposium held in San Antonio, Texas, which authorized the use of temporary duty funds for AETC personnel across the country to attend. This permitted the wing to bring their nominees for the symposium, thus allowing them to take part in the awards ceremony. But when the symposium was cancelled for 2013 due to current fiscal realities, the 12th FTW found another way to honor their Airmen.

"Flying our nominees in from our geographically separated units would have cost us nearly $30,000," said Col. Gerald Goodfellow, 12th Flying Training Wing commander. "That cost was neither feasible nor responsible, so we came up with an alternative...We decided to bring the ceremony to them."

Goodfellow, Col. James Gifford, 12th FTW vice commander; and Command Chief Master Sgt. Avery Woolridge, travelled more than 1,600 miles to each of the units Jan. 28 and 29 to personally recognize the nominees and winners in separate luncheons.

According to Woolridge, recognizing the Airmen in person is a leadership priority and a mission critical requirement.

"Accomplishing the mission in today's high operations tempo, 'do more with less' Air Force is challenging and complex. Compound that complexity with the rigors associated with being separated by 1,600 miles and you understand the men and women of the 12th FTW do miraculous things," said Woolridge.

"Our direction to them was simple, find innovative ways of doing business. And for the past 12 months, they've done that and done it well. The least we can do is shake their hands and say thank you for the many sacrifices they've endured and exemplary performance they've displayed over the past year. We owe them that."

For Goodfellow, making choices like these isn't just about saving money, it's about ensuring that we spend our resources wisely so we can continue to be the world's best Air Force.

"Whether it's finding efficiencies in our operations or in the execution of a morale program like our annual awards ceremony, it's our collective responsibility to make prudent choices so we can ensure the Air Force continues to meet its full airpower potential," he said.

The wing hosted a ceremony to honor its Airmen at JBSA-Randolph on January 25.

12th Flying Training Wing Annual Award Nominees:
*Denotes Winner

Junior Enlisted Member:
*Senior Airman Oliver Rhudy - 479th FTG

Noncommissioned Officer:
*Tech. Sgt. Neal - 12th OG
Tech. Sgt. Matthew Kurpaski - 306th FTG
Staff Sgt. Johana Medellin - 479th FTG

Senior Noncommissioned Officer:
Master Sgt. Shaun Abell - 12th OG
*Master Sgt. Justin Demke - 306th FTG
Master Sgt. Efrain Sanchez - 479th FTG

First Sergeant:
*Senior Master Sgt. Steven Alford - 479th FTG

Company Grade Officer:
*Capt. Jeff Shulman - 12th OG
Capt. Marshall Klitzke - 306th FTG
Capt. Tom Walsh - 479th FTG

Field Grade Officer:
*Maj. Andrew Gilmer - 12th OG
Maj. Mike Albers - 306th FTG
Maj. Richard Wilson - 479th FTG

Civilian Non-Supervisor Category I:
*Katrina Scott - 12th OG
Cheri Williamson 306th FTG
Paul Knoblock - 479th FTG

Civilian Non-Supervisor Category II:
Wesley Fillmore - 12th OG
Richard Long - 306th FTG
Paola Joyner - 479th FTG
*Angela Werley - 12th MX

Civilian Non-Supervisor Category III:
Randy Hunt - 12th FTW
Tim Gorshe - 12th FTW
*Robert Frink - 12th OG
Courtney Davis - 306th FTG
Michael Gnall - 479th FTG

Civilian Supervisor Category I:
Dwight Vickers - 12th OG
John Apostolides - 479th FTG
*Michael Howell - 12th MX

Civilian Supervisor Category II:
*Sara Rodriguez - 12th OG
Michael Thompson - 306th FTG
Richard Taylor - 12th MX

Civilian Wage Grade:
*Darlene Daspit-Pohl - 12th OG
David Alteiri - 306th FTG
John Harris - 12th MX

Flight Commander:
*Maj. Becky Russo - 12th OG
Capt. Sarah Towler - 306th FTG
Capt. Karyn Argueta - 479th FTG

Instructor Combat Systems Officer:
*Capt Anthony Bares - 479th FTG

Instructor Pilot:
*Capt. Thomas Zaremba - 12th OG
Capt. Joshua McCrary - 306th FTG
Maj. David Kendall - 479th FTG
 

Hagel Vows Policies Worthy of U.S. Service Members, Families

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2013 – Former Nebraska Sen. Chuck Hagel told the Senate Armed Services Committee today that his guiding principle is to make U.S. policy “worthy of our troops and their families and the sacrifices we ask them to make.”

In his opening statement at his confirmation hearing, Hagel -- President Barack Obama’s choice to succeed retiring Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta -- said he supports the administration’s policies down the line.
Hagel, who served as an Army sergeant in Vietnam, stressed his own time in the military and his experiences as a veteran while reiterating his commitment to taking care of service members, veterans and their families.
Turning to the threats the United States faces, Hagel told the senators the transition in Afghanistan will be front and center on his to-do list if he’s confirmed.

“Discussions are ongoing about what the U.S. presence in Afghanistan will look like after 2014,” he said, adding that the United States will train Afghan forces post-2014 and will maintain a counterterrorism presence in the nation.

Terrorism remains a threat, Hagel said, and he vowed to keep the pressure on terrorist organizations wherever they try to establish themselves. Yemen, Somalia and North Africa are particular trouble spots, he told the Senate panel.

“At the Pentagon, that means continuing to invest in and build the tools to assist in that fight, such as special operations forces and new intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance technologies,” he added. “And it will mean working hand in hand with our partners across the national security and intelligence communities to confront these and other threats, especially the emerging threat of cyber warfare.”

Hagel also said he fully supports Obama’s goal of preventing Iran from developing nuclear arms and the means to deliver them.

“As I’ve said in the past, all options must be on the table to achieve that goal,” he said. “My policy is one of prevention, and not one of containment, and the president has made clear that is the policy of our government.”

As defense secretary, Hagel said, he would ensure the U.S. military is ready for any contingency in the region. He also would ensure Israel maintains its qualitative military edge in the region, he added, and supports continued funding and research for the Israeli Iron Dome defense system.

Hagel also told the senators he is committed to maintaining a modern, strong, safe, ready and effective U.S. nuclear arsenal.

Addressing the shift toward the Asia-Pacific region in U.S. military strategy, Hagel said the American military is modernizing forces in the region and looking to deepen relationships with traditional allies such as Japan, South Korea and Australia. The American presence will deter states such as North Korea, he said, and will serve as a stabilizing influence. He vowed to expand the networks of security cooperation throughout the region to combat terrorism, counter proliferation, provide disaster relief, fight piracy and ensure maritime security.

“It is a recognition that the United States has been and always will be a Pacific power, and the Asia-Pacific is an increasingly vital part of the globe for America’s security and economy,” he said. “That’s why we must become even more engaged in the region over the coming years.

But the pivot to the Pacific does not mean that threats in other parts of the world are going away, Hagel noted, adding that the U.S. military will continue addressing challenges that emanate from the Middle East and North Africa.

“I will continue this rebalancing, even as we continue to work closely with our longtime NATO allies and friends, and with allies and partners in other regions,” he said.

On the looming threat of sequestration -- deep, across-the-board spending cuts that will take effect March 1 unless Congress comes up with an alternative -- Hagel said he agrees with Panetta that the plan to chop billions from the department is a bad idea.

“As someone who has run businesses, I know the uncertainty and turbulence of the current budget climate makes it much more difficult to manage the Pentagon’s resources,” he said. “If confirmed, I am committed to effectively and efficiently using every single taxpayer dollar, to maintaining the strongest military in the world, and to working with Congress to ensure the department has the resources it needs -- and that the disposition of those resources is accountable.”

Hagel pledged to continue implementing the 2011 repeal of the law that had barred openly gay service members from serving in the military, promising to do everything possible under current law to provide equal benefits to the families of all service members. He also pledged to continue Panetta’s work in opening more combat jobs to military women and fighting sexual assault in the military.

“I will work with the service chiefs as we officially open combat positions to women, a decision that I strongly support,” he said. “And I will continue the important work that Leon Panetta has done to combat sexual assault in the military. Maintaining the health and well-being of those who serve is critical to maintaining a strong and capable military, because an institution’s people must always come first.”

JBER's 3rd Wing wins PACAF safety award

by PAO Staff Report
JBER Public Affairs

1/30/2013 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The Pacific Air Forces Safety Special Achievement Award was presented to the 3rd Wing during a flight safety awards ceremony Jan. 2. The award recognizes the wing's outstanding accomplishments in numerous mishap prevention areas.

"It is truly an honor to receive this particular award," said Air Force Lt. Col. Travolis Simmons, 3rd Wing chief of safety. "It serves as a testament to the overall quality of our safety programs. More importantly, the award validates the disciplined contributions of all 3rd Wing Airmen who enabled the wing's many mission successes in 2012."Fiscal year 2012 was a year marked by challenging circumstances for JBER and the 3rd Wing. Despite record snowfall during the 2011-2012 winter, the Joint Base's 3rd Wing operated and safely maintained 7,037 flight sorties for a combined total of 15,159 flight hours.

Aircrew delivered more than 2,000 passengers and more than 4 million pounds of cargo in support of Pacific Command and Central Command missions without any major mishaps. Additionally, the 3rd Wing safely hosted two Red Flag exercises, which included more than 1,000 joint and allied forces, and 47 aircraft for 580 flight sorties and more than 1,000 flying hours.

Wing personnel helped discover the root causes of F-22 Raptor hypoxia-like symptoms Air Force-wide, ultimately resulting in changes in aircrew flight equipment across the Combat Air Force. This discovery led to the development of the Reduced Oxygen Breathing Device Program to simulate hypoxia symptoms for pilots, saving more than $284,000 annually in travel costs.

Outside of daily flying operations, the 3rd Wing hosted the largest air show in the joint base's history, with more than 73 participating aircraft, a record-breaking 235,000 visitors, and more than 500 volunteers with zero safety incidents.

During this time, 3rd Wing Safety personnel also engineered a joint Bird and Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Program with neighboring Bryant Army Airfield, reducing bird strike potential across the joint installation by 50 percent for more than 150 aircraft. Weapons Safety analyzed 23 explosive clear zones and discovered encroachment of a public traffic route. This revelation prevented future hazards and ensured protection of personnel as well as a coveted Alaska hunting locale.

Their personnel also played a key role in the ammunition barge joint operation with United States Army Alaska by identifying a convoy safety hazard, resulting in 20,000 pounds net explosive weight arriving with zero mishaps.

The 3rd Wing Safety team's contributions extended well outside the joint base installation. The team conducted a Wake Island site survey and coordinated risk assessment with the Naval Surface Warfare Center. This coordinated effort resulted in approval for seven explosive site plans and allowed the Missile Defense Agency to establish a posture for integrated flight tests.

Air Force Gen. Herbert Carlisle, PACAF commander, lauded the accomplishment and encouraged a continued commitment to safety excellence.

Upon receiving the award, Air Force Col. Dirk Smith, 3rd Wing commander said, "I could not be more proud of our 3rd Wing Safety professionals. Their achievements show that engaged leadership drives disciplined, precise and safe mission execution. "Our safety team understands the complexity of our diverse 3rd Wing mission," the commander continued. "From F-22 oxygen system improvements to Wake Island weapons safety groundwork, our safety enables our leadership team to create an environment for safe operations that ultimately increase our combat capability."

Simmons summarized the significance of the award.

"Whenever you are fortunate enough to win a major command-level award, it is a big deal," he said. "We are certainly excited about it and appreciative of the recognition. However, success in safety is not about past performance. Success in safety is about the future. Everyone in the organization must be vigilant in maintaining a proactive approach to safety as we attempt to anticipate tomorrow's problem areas and mitigate the risk of future mishaps."

Family of missing pilot expresses optimism for his safe return

1/31/2013 - MANIAGO, Italy (AFNS) -- "If anyone could survive something like this, it would be Luc," she said.

Cassy Gruenther spoke the words with full confidence sitting on the couch of her home in northeast Italy.

Her husband, Capt. Lucas Gruenther, 32, has been missing since officials at Aviano Air Base, Italy, lost contact with the captain's F-16 Fighting Falcon Jan. 28 during a nighttime training mission over the Adriatic Sea.

"Luc is a self-reliant outdoorsmen who would sleep every night under the stars if he could," Cassy said. "He's a sky diver, he's a rock climber and he's a certified scuba diver. He is also a health nut and in great shape."

A 2003 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, Gruenther's selection as a fighter pilot was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, according to his family.

"Luc has wanted to be a pilot since he was a little boy," said Romel Mathias, Gruenther's mother. "And, he did everything he had to do to get there. That's what he does with everything in his life. If he wants to do something, he finds a way to do it."

"That's why I know he's coming home," added Cassy, who is pregnant and just weeks from delivering the couple's first child, Serene. "If he has his mind set on something, he will find a way to make it happen. He'll find a way; whatever he has to do."

The massive search effort has included aircraft and ships from the United States and Italy. According to the family, the U.S. military has confirmed finding debris from the aircraft including Gruenther's drogue parachute and his helmet.

"The drogue chute is a good sign," said Cassy. "It means he ejected, and we've been told the helmet is in good condition."

The captain's family is not alone in their optimism as thousands of friends and well-wishers posted messages online and sent in their support for the Gruenthers.

"The support we've had has been amazing," said Kerry Williams, Cassy's mother. "We've received emails and Facebook posts from every state and from around the world. A local trail runners association has even scheduled a run for him this Saturday. We just can't express in words how grateful we are for the support, especially the support we've received from the rescue teams and volunteers out searching for Luc."

The captain's supporters also include many from the local Italian community. The Gruenther's are heavily involved in their community, leading the Maniago township's chapter of the Vicini Americani (or American Neighbors) program, which helps to build friendships between the American and Italian families in the communities outside the base.

"He loves culture and he loves languages," Cassy said. "He studies every night and was able to speak Italian fluently after our first year here. He also loves helping Italians who ask for help with their English. He's built many friendships with Italians as they work together on pronunciation and finding the perfect word."

Cassy said that her husband has no plans to leave the Air Force any time soon and that he has the potential to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather Army Gen. Alfred Gruenther, who served as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe from 1953 to 1956.

"He loves what he does," she said. "He's the kind of officer who knows the name of every maintainer out there on the flightline. I've always pictured him as a general one day, making a difference."

Mathias echoed her daughter-in-law's comments.

"He served six months in Afghanistan where his mission was to support ground troops," she said. "We remember Luc saying that the greatest day on deployment was when he got to meet the Soldiers he supported with air cover during an operation."

18th Medical Group proves to be PACAF's best

by Airman 1st Class Justin Veazie
18th Wing Public Affairs

1/30/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 18th Medical Group was recently recognized by Pacific Air Forces' headquarters for meritorious service in 2012.

The 18th MDG won Best Ambulatory Clinic Patient Safety Program, Air Force Surgeon General Award for Best Clinic, Largest Dental Clinic of the Year and Outstanding Medical Logistics Small Account of the Year.

"We are extremely proud of (our) unit," said Col. Barbara King, 18th Medical Group commander. "This is just a resolve of good mentorship, and our Airmen doing their job to the best of their ability and being recognized for it!"

Kadena's medical group is the Air Force's largest freestanding ambulatory clinic in terms of personnel. It is comprised of more than 80 medical and dental care providers who see nearly 600 patients daily.

The clinic provides Kadena and other Department of Defense beneficiaries with extensive medical, dental and other support services.

"Thanks to the professional men and women of the (18th MDG), we are able to keep all operations running smoothly," said King.

Twelve medical group individuals also received command awards. The individuals and their awards are:

U.S. Air Force Biomedical Clinician Category I Company Grade Officer of the Year: Capt. Rodney A. Ho

Clinical Dentist of the Year: Capt. Jeremy B. Lake

Outstanding Biomedical Equipment Repair NCO of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Dustin M. Sprague

Outstanding Base Bioenvironmental Engineering NCO of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Dion J. Taylor

Outstanding Mental Health Airman of the Year: Senior Airman Danielle A. Meadows

Outstanding Diet Therapy NCO of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Jennifer J. Randolph

Aerospace and Operational Physiology NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Clint K. Copeland

Outstanding Aerospace Medicine NCO of the Year: Tech. Sgt. John E. Glover

Outstanding Dental Airman of the Year: Airman 1st Class Amanda E. York

Outstanding Dental NCO of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Cheyanne L. Brown

U.S. Air Force Clinical Excellence Award - CGO Category: Capt. Shannon M. Brodersen

U.S. Air Force Clinical Excellence in Nursing Award - CGO Category: Capt. Lindsay B. Howard

Making sure patients get the best care is a main priority of the medical group.

The 18th MDG's motto is "Trusted Care, Here and in the Air."

610 ACF sets the stage

by Airman 1st Class Kia Atkins
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/30/2013 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- In many endeavors, such as theatrical or musical performances, the people behind the scenes are rarely recognized for their part. Similarly, during training exercises, the pilots are usually the stars of the show. However, they wouldn't be able to perform without the help of their stage hands, the 610th Air Control Flight. They may not be the ones in the spotlight, but without them the show could not go on.

Though small in number, the 610 ACF has an important mission of providing command and control for all aircraft flying in Northern Japan.

"Our job is to make sure all U.S. aircraft are aware of each other, as well as any Japan Air Self-Defense Force or civilian aircraft flying in the same area," said Tech. Sgt. David Boyd, 610 ACF weapons director. "We make sure our fighters stay within the airspace given to us from the country of Japan and if there is ever an emergency, we are the first to respond. It is our responsibility, in an emergency, to get the pilots the help they need and contact the correct agencies to handle the situation at hand."

Approximately 15 people are in charge of controlling offensive and defensive counter-missions for F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots performing Suppression of Enemy Air Defense and Destruction of Enemy Air Defense missions, as well as providing guidance and ensuring safety of flight.

The 610 ACF forms a team with pilots to do tactical missions. During the missions, they formulate a game plan and brief it to the pilots before they fly into the airspace. Then when the pilots are there, the 610 ACF controls the mission.

For training missions they can either control "good guys" or "bad guys", referred to as blue air and red air respectively, and simulate what could happen in a war-time scenario.
"When they [pilots] do certain missions, we play along with whatever they are doing," said Senior Airman Jonathan Huggins, 610 ACF senior director technician. "For example if they are fighting against a certain kind of aircraft, it's our job to know what that aircraft can do. We also inform them of the location of enemy jets, their range and when ally pilots are in threat range."

On a daily basis, the 610 ACF works side-by-side with members of the JASDF to provide air command and control in the Northern Sector of Japan. Teams from both the U.S. Air Force and JASDF work out of the same operations center using JASDF equipment and sensors.

"Coordination and cooperation is needed every day to ensure both countries are able to achieve their desired objectives for the day," said 1st Lt. Preston Phillips, 610 ACF air weapons officer.

Though often confused for air traffic controllers, the 610 ACF is in charge of controlling aircraft in large portions of airspace. Air traffic controllers guide air traffic and control aircraft around bases, whereas the 610 ACF keeps them separated and controls them over fighting ranges and when they're in the airspace.

"Air traffic controllers are primarily responsible for the safe separation and deconfliction of aircraft and airfields," said Staff Sgt. Devon Sonly, 610 ACF NCO in charge of weapons and tactics. "We are responsible for providing situational awareness and direction to aid in fighter targeting. This allows the fighters to take shots at range and increase survivability while maximizing our [the Air Force's] lethality."

As part of the mission essential crew, the 610 ACF is out there every day helping pilots train and complete their missions on a daily basis.

"We are their eyes and ears when they cannot see," said Boyd. "We guide them [pilots] to intercept enemy aircraft, as well as help them stay safe in the airspace."