Seikan War breaks out over Misawa

by Senior Airman Derek VanHorn
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2014 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Multiple formations of fighter jets rip through the Japanese sky at a relentless pace with a roar that's seemingly never-ending. Most of them are U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons, and are accompanied by F-15s and F-2s from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. They're all here for the same reason -- all-out war.

Seikan War, an annual large force exercise, took place Feb. 26 and 27 and teamed up the aerial, lethal forces of the U.S. and Japanese militaries. Four missions were executed over two days during morning and afternoon flights featuring up to 22 aircraft competing simultaneously in two separate airspaces, one over the Sea of Japan and another over the Pacific Ocean.

"Anytime you have that many aircraft airborne at the same time in the same airspace, you're going to face many challenges," said 1st Lt. Danielle Kangas, 14th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot. "This training allows us to realistically simulate what we can expect in combat."

Kangas flew in missions both exercise days and played the role of "red air," or the enemy. With 20 jets taking off within 30 minutes, it was the most action MIsawa Air Base had seen at one time in months. It's something of controlled chaos, a true depiction of air power.

"We all had specific locations to be at when the fight started; the blue air setting up to defend their lane in defensive counter air or to push into their target area in the strike mission while the red air set up their presentations in the opposite end of the airspace," Kangas explained. "My job was to accurately execute red air tactics to challenge the blue air and bomb the target they're defending."

One of her opponents, fellow 14 FS F-16 Pilot Capt. Houston Pye, who flew "blue air" - one of the good guys defending the target area. Pye's team traveled in three waves with F-15 Eagles leading as escorts, followed by F-16s performing the Wild Weasel mission of suppressing enemy air defenses, and finally F-16s and F-2s racing through executing air interdiction.

Pye said the big challenge is keeping situational awareness while sharing the airspace with so many aircraft at once, all the while realizing what each jet has to offer.

"It's basically putting your best players forward and taking advantage of their capabilities," Pye explained, citing the differences in the jets' radar and weapon systems.

"Normally we're flying with no more than 10 total jets at once," Pye said. "But here, we had 16 versus six. It's similar to how we would operate in combat.

"If we're going to go into hostile territory, we're not going to have just a 4-ship of SEAD," Pye continued. "With our Wild Weasels, we might have up to 20 strikers or escorts on a real-world mission."

The scenarios allow no room for error, and present the perfect challenge for 35th Fighter Wing Wild Weasel pilots. Along with the frenzy of swarming fighter jets, two Patriot surface-to-air missile batteries from the JASDF's 6th Air Defense Missile Group were employed.

Surface-to-air missile suppression and destruction is the core of the Wild Weasel mission -- it's why they exist. Throwing two SAM sites into the mix topped off the full-fledged battlefield that accurately tested the pilots' capabilities.

"That's what we want as flyers," said Capt. Chris Charron, 14 FS F-16 pilot, who flew both days. "It realistically prepares us for combat contingencies and is an awesome opportunity to work bilaterally with the Japanese."

As training excels thousands of feet in the sky, every maintainer on the ground knows the jets can't fly without their hand in the deal. For Staff Sgt. Jesse Simmons, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron F-16 integrated avionics craftsman, the opportunity is twofold.

"It's rewarding to know the aircraft we work on go out there and defend not only the Pacific, but the entire world," said Simmons, who worked on F-16s alongside JASDF maintainer Tech. Sgt. Tomoyoshi Katsuno throughout the week. "And to have the chance to work with our JASDF counterparts works to the advantage of both sides. We're able to share our strengths with one another as well as bond together."

Maintainers prepped jets for 84 sorties that flew during the exercise, which utilized nearly half the 35 FW's F-16 fleet, according to Capt. Matt Karmondy, 35th Operations Support Squadron project officer for Seikan War. Karmondy said all the work that went into such a potent operation - such as tactical considerations, differing training rules, and breaking the language barrier - was well worth the effort.

"The Japanese are an extremely important ally in the Pacific," said Karmondy. "Strengthening our abilities both offensively and defensively in the air is huge for both Forces."

Teaming up to move munitions

by Staff Sgt. Jessica Haas
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Airmen assigned to the 8th Maintenance Squadron, Logistics Readiness Squadron and the Fighter Wing safety office worked together during the peninsula-wide munitions realignment process Jan. 6 to Mar. 10, 2014.

"The realignment of munitions throughout the United States Forces Korea is a big deal," said Maj. Timothy Fuhrman, 8th MXS commander. "The 8th FW is doing their part as one of the largest munitions retrograde efforts on the peninsula. All realignment efforts are meant to put the 8th FW in the best position to meet operational requirements and 'fight tonight'."

The major went on to say large portions of Kunsan's stockpile are being moved to other areas within the Pacific Command or back to the U.S.

"Logistically, there are major benefits to the realignment that come in the form of man-hour savings," said Fuhrman. "For example, there will be less periodic inspection requirements, less munition container repairs and less re-warehousing. Additionally, the munitions retrograde will free up premium floor space in the Munitions Storage Area, which will allow overall better munitions stockpile management."

While the munitions flight headed up the operation, they didn't do it alone.

"The munitions flight has had tons of help," said Fuhrman. "Seventh Air Force/A4 has done a wonderful job providing us with shipping containers and lumber. The 8th FW safety office performed a major risk assessment on the operation seven to eight weeks ago that had to be approved by Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc Jouas, 7th Air Force commander. The 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron has been remarkable in supporting us with all of the shipping, handling and transportation requirements as well."

With the teamwork demonstrated by each of these squadrons, the realignment was a success and the Wolf Pack is now even more prepared to take the fight North.

USAF, JASDF participate in NCO bilateral exchange

by Airman 1st Class Hailey Staker
18th Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Approximately eight U.S. Air Force and Army service members participated in a Japan Air Self-Defense Force NCO exchange recently here.

The purpose of bilateral exchanges between the JASDF and U.S. military is to create a better understanding of how the U.S. military operates, as well as foster good community relations with the host nation.

"The exchange we have right now is between the U.S. forces and the JASDF in the different fields of aircraft maintenance and other base agencies," said Senior Master Sgt. Cesar Acevedo, 909th Aircraft Maintenance Unit flight chief and 18th Wing/JASDF bilateral coordinator. "We are trying to create a common bond between the (JASDF) capabilities and our capabilities, and to know each other's actions in case we have to work together in the future."

Not only did various agencies such as the civil engineer and communication squadrons participate in this exchange, but the U.S. Army, 1st Air Defense Artillery Regiment also provided two soldiers to work with JASDF Army members.

"At the moment, we are responding to the needs of the JASDF," Acevedo said. "This time they requested the Army and have two Army members that needed to have some interaction with U.S. forces so they put that on their request, and the Army was able to come forward. It also takes a lot of coordination from the JASDF up in Tokyo, Japan, related to funds availability and also what kind of benefit the JASDF will draw from this exchange."

In order to be chosen for this program, JASDF members must submit a package, which is then sent to a review board to ensure requesters meet proper rank and job requirements. Finally, the top performers are selected to participate in this exchange.

"The goal of the JASDF and the U.S. Military is kind of the same, but we have different minds and rules, so this exchange program helps us to get closer, work together so when we have an emergency, we can work together," Tsuruta said. "Most JASDF (members) don't know what goes on here, so I want to pass along information like how the U.S. military really is and I want to help change their minds. This relationship is very important so I don't want this program to stop after this exchange."

Acevedo said he would like to open up the program to other U.S. military branches such as the U.S. Marine Corps and the Navy.

"We want to open this up to everyone, all military forces from the U.S., to partake with the JASDF and just be a team," Acevedo said. "It's a bilateral partnership that we have and, as a whole, that's the end goal of the JASDF and U.S.: to strengthen the bilateral partnerships that we have with the host nation."

During this exchange, Tech. Sgt. Tatsuya Tsuruta, JASDF civil engineer construction worker, worked with Staff Sgt. Billy Starks, 718th CES construction manager, and learned many things such as how to work a wood grinding machine and the basics of construction management.

"I've learned unit organization and how the U.S. military are separated (into different units) so you are very well organized," Tsuruta said. "I haven't worked close with the U.S. military before so this is my first time."

Due to Starks and his creativity, Tsuruta was able to work with a machine he had never worked with before.

"This is a Morbark Tub Grinder, which grinds tree trunks, tree limbs, and other wood debris from around Kadena after typhoons," said Staff Sgt. Paul Mitchell, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron pavements and equipment craftsmen. "If Starks didn't think outside the box and bring Tsuruta to us, he would not have seen the other side of his allied nation doing their thing or learn something cool and new because he does not have anything like this in their equipment training or operations."

Tsuruta added that now that he's worked with the machine and taken pictures, he can explain to his peers how to use the machine if they were to ever need to use it.

The main challenge Starks and Tsuruta came across was communication.

"My being here in the exchange program has taught me that the communication is more important before starting work because we have to be able to communicate if we're going to work with the U.S. military so I have to be able to speak English," Tsuruta said. "I really appreciate that you guys offer this exchange program to us and I would like for this to continue."

"The language barrier was my biggest challenge, I think if I didn't know basic Japanese, maybe it would have been just a bit harder," Starks said. "Sometimes we think there are a lot of differences but after working with them, I noticed a lot of similarities. I was able to teach him and he was just working like a regular CE troop and the guys in his career field, they use a lot of our same software, equipment and techniques so when we're accomplishing the mission, I know a JASDF person can come to Kadena and get the mission done just like us."

Acevedo added that as long as the U.S. is available, and the JASDF are willing to participate, the program will continue.

"The fact that we have an incredible support from the host nation here, like when I deployed to Cope North, they are extremely disciplined maintainers, they are ready and prepared, very serious about their job and take their responsibility very seriously and that's the same projection that we have with them, is important," Acevedo said. "Also, the agencies on Kadena are extremely open and helpful to these exchanges. Kadena is open to the JASDF as much as the JASDF is open to the U.S. Forces, it is all about strengthening the bilateral partnership that we have and at the end of the day that is why we are here, to create long lasting relationships with the JASDF and to make sure that if we do have to come to the defense of the nation we will be able to operate without any problems."

Largest Sentry Aloha exercise in history kicks off at JBPH-H

by Tech. Sgt. Terri Paden
15th Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  -- 

The flightline here was abuzz with activity March 6 as the first sorties of Sentry Aloha were launched, signaling the official start of the aerial combat exercise.

Sentry Aloha has been an ongoing series of exercises over the past three decades, but this is by far the largest ever.  It will last three weeks and include more than 350 Airmen, five visiting units and multiple airframes.

With Airmen from the Air National Guard, Air Reserves and active-duty all working together toward the common goal of making this Sentry Aloha the biggest and most successful to date, the training was also an exercise in total force integration.

"Historically, the purpose of Sentry Aloha was to support indigenous fighters on the island, but it's grown to be much bigger than that now," said Maj. Ryan Itoman, Sentry Aloha officer in charge. "What you're seeing here now is different because we have joined up with several outside units to create a large force exercise--historically it's just been one other unit."

Among the nearly 50 participating airframes are F-16 Fighting Falcons, F-15 Eagles, F-22 Raptors, C-130 Hercules, C-17 Globemasters III, KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-10 Extenders. Additionally, the 15th and 154th Maintenance Groups, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 613th Air and Space Operations Center and the 109th Air Operations Group are supporting the exercise as well.

Itoman said the newly formatted exercise will allow all participating units to truly train like they fight with the focus of the exercise being on offensive and defensive counter-air measures and fighter integration.

"This is a win, win, win situation," said Itoman. "It's a win for the indigenous Raptors, and it will provide everyone very realistic threat training. All these aircraft are integrated in combat, so it's great to train that way. The concept was to build a Sentry Aloha that would provide optimal training for several different units, and not just the home unit."

Itoman said fighting alongside the F-22 Raptor as well as against the Raptor in the various training scenarios will be, "really excellent training" for the visiting fighter squadrons.

In addition to the opportunity to train with such a large assortment of dissimilar aircraft, Sentry Aloha also provides the visiting units another unique opportunity--optimal weather conditions for training every day.

"Hawaii offers something for training that few other places do," said Lt. Col. Charles Anthony, Hawaii Air National Guard public affairs director. "It has the largest unrestricted air space in the U.S. and great weather even in the winter. Units can do so much more training this time of year in Hawaii than they could ever do virtually anywhere else."

Michigan Army Guard artillery, aviation units conduct cold weather sling load and howitzer live fire exercise

By Army Staff Sgt. Kimberly Bratic
126th Public Affairs Operations Center

GRAYLING, Mich. (3/7/14) - Soldiers of the Michigan Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 119th Field Artillery Regiment, with support from Soldiers with B Company, 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment and 3rd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment, successfully conducted cold weather training at Camp Grayling Joint Military Training Center, Mich., recently.

The two-day mission, challenged by extreme sub-zero temperatures, included the slingloading and live fire of 12 M-777 155mm howitzers. The weapons were slingloaded underneath CH-47 Chinook helicopters and transported to their firing positions while the gun crews were then transported to the firing point in UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters.

"When we planned for this, we planned for 20 to 30 degree temps," said Army Lt. Col. Scott Meyers, commander of 1st Bn, 119th FA Regt.. "Our first day up here, it was 30 degrees below zero so we ended up doing more arctic-type training."

Early morning day one, the low temperatures took their toll on equipment but the mission pressed on.
"The vehicles and equipment - it's been hard on them," said Meyers. "We've learned what works in 30 below and what does not."

With the frigid temperatures, machinery that was expected to work, didn't.

"We went through a couple dozen batteries for vehicles," said Meyers. "Getting them to start in the morning was very difficult and tires were going flat. We had two 2,500 gallon diesel tankers completely gel up and freeze so we had to bring them into a warming bay so we could draw the fuel the next day."

The Soldiers of the battalion pressed on despite the arctic conditions.

"They've overcome and, today, all vehicles are running," said Meyers. "Mechanics were up until 2300, 11 p.m., last night fixing everything and it's working today so there's a lot of motivation to make this weekend work."

Despite the cold weather, members of the unit found the challenges helped them gel a bit more in accomplishing their mission.

"It was definitely cold, but it was a lot of fun and something new for the battalion," said Army 1st Lt. Adam Stephens, executive officer of Battery A, 1st Bn., 119th FA Regt. "Sometimes it's good to challenge yourself and overcoming adversity brings the unit together to achieve the mission."

Stephens served as liaison to the flight crews to ensure Soldier safety and the landing times of the Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters.

"We had zero cold weather injuries," said Meyers. "Thirty below zero standing under 140 mile per hour winds underneath a Chinook that's lifting up a howitzer, that's certainly a challenge."

There were several 'firsts' for the unit's cold weather operation. For many in the battalion, those firsts included slingload operations and simply flying in a helicopter, said Meyers.

During the two-day operation, 36 aircraft missions with the howitzers were executed seamlessly and external evaluators overseeing the unit commented that the Soldiers performed as if they had many years of experience, said Meyers.

And while the temperature was low during the mission, Soldier morale remained high.

"The Soldiers' motivation is high and the Army equipment has kept them warm," said Meyers. "We even had four (re-)enlistments today. We had Soldiers say, 'We would like to re-enlist. This was one of the most awesome things we've ever done.'"

More than 100 Soldiers from the battalion and the aviation units that supported them earned cold weather operation training certifications and learned a variety of adaptive techniques.

The battalion will be conducting other slingload missions throughout this year and the cold weather operation is slated to be conducted again in 2015.

IceMentor program aims to guide, develop Airmen

by Senior Airman Zachary Perras
354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2014 - EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Throughout life, individuals may seek others of like mind for advice, guidance and friendship. In the Air Force, this is no different; young Airmen sometimes seek help adapting to and learning the ins and outs of military life.

However, help is not always easy to find, especially for someone brand new to the Air Force. At Eielson, this is where the IceMentor program steps in.

IceMentor began as an idea several years ago, but only recently progressed into a full-fledged program. Staff Sgt. Ashley Biondo, 354th Medical Support Squadron NCO in charge of customer service acquisitions, heard about the old idea and volunteered to revive it.

"The Air Force pushes us to find a mentor, to find that go-to person who can give you advice in a time of need," Biondo said. "The truth is, many of us would love to have a mentor but, just don't know where to go or who to turn to for help."

The aim of IceMentor is to do just that: fill the gap when it comes to finding a mentor and eliminate the possible stressors of not knowing what avenue to take.

"There are many situations our Airmen go through that a mentor could have helped them get through, whether it's deployments, marriage issues or schooling," Biondo said. "We want to shape our future leaders one Airman at a time, so why not talk to someone who has been there before?"

This simple question is what inspired the slogan of IceMentor, said Biondo. "'We've been in your boots, now let us teach you how' really encompasses every aspect of IceMentor. It shows that our Airmen have a place to go and someone to turn to no matter what."

Through the IceMentor program, Biondo said potential mentors have a personal interview with the IceMentor committee members. This helps develop a better understanding of who the mentor is when matching with a mentee. Both mentors and mentees fill out an application form and are matched based on the interests and needs of the Airman.

Senior Airman Gavin Baxter, 354th Civil Engineering Squadron water and fuels systems maintenance technician, has experienced the benefits of the IceMentor program firsthand as one of the first mentees of the program.

Baxter was paired with Staff Sgt. Paul Davis, 354th Force Support Squadron NCO in charge of mortuary affairs. With Davis' help, Baxter said he's been more confident in his future in the Air Force.

"It's like having an older brother to help guide me through different aspects of my career and my life," Baxter said. "It's great knowing that if I'm going through something I've never experienced before, I have someone by my side to turn to and give me a hand."

Biondo said that Airmen are matched with someone who is outside of their work area in order to keep an unbiased mentality, and also help Airmen feel more at ease.

"It's definitely a professional program, but it's also more laid back because we want the Airmen to be comfortable talking about whatever issues they have," she said. "No matter what, they'll be matched with someone who wants to be there for them and lend a helping hand."

For more information or to sign up for the IceMentor program, contact Biondo at 377-4108.

Step Up, Step In: Spiritual fitness makes life worth living

by Airman 1st Class Ryan Conroy
31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy  -- To increase Airmen resiliency, the Air Force has adapted a culture of Comprehensive Airman Fitness, helping instill four pillars of standards to ensure Airmen are "fit to fight" across the board in four separate categories--mental, physical, social and spiritual.

Most people correlate spirituality with religion, but according to Chaplain (Lt. Col.) John Tiller, 31st Fighter Wing, being spiritually disciplined is an understanding and sustainment of one's sense of self and purpose in adverse conditions.

"When you're talking about combat, multiple deployments, the loss of wingmen or anyone you care about, those are the types of things that will really stress the way you think about life," said Tillery. "Spiritual resiliency has a grounding effect. It's that spiritual depth that can help you bounce back from even those difficult types of things."

Without a sense of value and worth, Tillery warns that service members can invite feelings of inadequacy or stress into their daily lives.

"We see that without a spiritual aspect in someone's life, there's a loss of optimism, hope and purpose. I think a lack of developing the spiritual element results in a loss of a sense of purpose," said Tillery. "Once you begin to move into an area of meaninglessness, then that has a way of depressing you in your other areas. Your mental activity then begins to revolve around very narrow and particular things. Like, what do I have to do today? Must I get out of bed today?"

While each pillar of comprehensive fitness is equally important, some believe that a person does not have the ability to be spiritually fit , yet be deficient in the other categories.

"I believe the pillars are inter-related and while I believe that a person can be physically fit and not be emotionally or mentally fit, I find it impossible to be spiritually fit and not be fit in every other area as well," said Chief Master Sgt. William Harrington, 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron, chief enlisted manager. "I just think it permeates who we are in every other area because you have a sense of purpose and drive. You must be physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually fit to deal with the ups and downs of military life."

Realizing what makes one passionate is the first step in exercising an individual's spiritual discipline.

"One thing a person should do, is reflect upon what your spiritual beliefs are. It's hard to strengthen something that you don't know what it is," said Tillery. "Sit down and think, 'What are the things that give me self-worth?,' and 'What gets me up in the morning?,' or 'What is it that keeps me optimistic about life?,' and once you sort those things out, well then you can begin to strengthen those things."

Spiritual fitness can be demonstrated through an array of activities or disciplines that bring someone a sense of connectedness. Activities such as hiking, meditating, watching the sunrise in the morning or choosing to express an individual's religious demeanor can all have an impact on one's spiritual disciplines.

"Anything that is seen as greater than one's self has spiritual aspects to it," said Tillery. "We're talking about values that give you worth as a person."

Logistics Airmen 'march' to honor fallen chief

by Capt. Mark Graff
65th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - LAJES FIELD, Azores -- Airmen from the 65th Logistics Readiness Squadron honored unit heritage and a fallen chief master sergeant during a physical training session here, Feb 28.

The formation run, known as 'Eddie's March', honored Chief Master Sgt. Eddie Speight, formerly of the 65th Supply Squadron at Lajes Field. Speight died suddenly of a heart attack in 1996 during a basketball game at the base fitness center. The North Carolina native was 36 years old.

Speight's legacy is a source of squadron pride, said Master Sgt. Casey McKinney, 65th LRS fuels and information service center section chief.

"We made the decision to call it Eddie's March simply because it started and ended at (Building) T-610, now known as 'Eddie's Place'," McKinney said. "Chief Master Sergeant Speight is still fondly remembered today by our local national (employees)."

Francisco Homem, a 33-year 65th LRS Portuguese employee, remembered Speight as a 'people person.'

"He was one of those awesome flight chiefs," said Homem, 65th LRS logistics manager. "He was a very nice person, who took care of his people."

Maj. Billy Shaw, 65th LRS commander, spoke about the chief prior to the run.

"Major Shaw started the run off with a little bit of history about Chief Speight and his contributions the 65th Supply Squadron as well as the 65th Air Base Wing. (We were) pumped up from Major Shaw's speech and... we took off on a 4.4 kilometer formation run," said McKinney.

In all, 35 Airmen from the logistics squadron participated in the unit physical training event. The Airmen gathered for a social event afterwards and toasted their predecessor.

Honoring Speight at a PT session was suggested by 65th LRS Airmen, McKinney said.

"This idea evolved from a suggestion brought up in our monthly PT meetings," said McKinney. "We were in the market for something challenging and outside the norm.

"This is just how we PT," the master sergeant said. "This session was more involved than others and verged on becoming a full-fledged event, but at its core, this was just PT. If our members come to us with a good idea, we do everything we can to make it work."

Unified Airmen: Lajes formation run brings wing together

by Capt. Mark Graff
65th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - LAJES FIELD, Azores -- The 65th Air Base Wing at Lajes Field held a wing formation run here, March 7. The formation run - a recurring, quarterly event - reminds Lajes Airmen of the wing's focus areas: discipline, readiness and unity.

Squadrons assembled in formation and performed calisthenics and warm-up exercises prior to the two-mile run.

Not coincidentally, the running course took Lajes Airmen onto the base's airfield and past massive fuel tanks and communications equipment. The 65th ABW's mission is to provide en-route support to transient aircraft, employ the Air Force's second largest fuel store and facilitate global communications through special equipment on the island.

The 65th Civil Engineer Squadron led the formation run after being awarded the Commander's Cup Trophy for earning first place in 2013 intramural sports. The wing also recognized 2013 Annual Awards winners.

Master Sgt. Victor Santana, 65th Contracting Flight infrastructure section chief, said the event unifies Lajes Airmen and reminds them of basic military skills.

"This event is a great opportunity for the wing to form up as a team and listen to guidance from our leaders," said Santana, a native of Guanica, Puerto Rico. "It also shows how important PT is to our wing leaders - all the way from the top to the bottom."

Santana added that a formation run affords units the opportunity to practice seldom-used drill and ceremonies skills.

Tech. Sgt. Robert Payne led warm-up stretches before the run to prevent injuries.

"It (was) a windy cold morning, so the biggest thing was warming everybody up (and getting) the blood pumping, as you don't want to do the cold stretching," said Payne, a native of Seattle. "We had a two mile run on some uneven terrain, so the biggest thing was just making sure everybody was loose so we got everybody back with no injuries."

Santana noted an overall sense of camaraderie and unity at the wing-wide event.

"When we get together like this, it makes us a team; one team, one fight," the master sergeant added. "I've been in the Air Force for 17 years and while this is not my first wing run, I think that we do it a little bit special here at Lajes."

Payne saw the wing run as a break from the norm and a team-building event.

"It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and the mundane," said Payne. "We are only (600) strong here at Lajes and we get caught up working our own shops and taking care of our own daily disciplines. But when we can sacrifice a couple hours and come together with the family aspect and brotherhood, then it doesn't get much cooler than that."

Additional Airmen, aircraft to support NATO policing mission in Baltics

48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/7/2014 - ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The 48th Fighter Wing has sent additional aircraft and personnel to support NATO's air policing mission in Lithuania, at the request of U.S. allies in the Baltics.

Six F-15C Eagles departed RAF Lakenheath and two KC-135 Stratotankers carrying more than 60 Airmen departed RAF Mildenhall March 6.

Nearly 150 Airmen and four F-15C Eagles from the 48th FW have been supporting the Baltic Air Policing mission out of Siauliai Air Base, Lithuania, since January as the 48th Air Expeditionary Group.

"This is the advantage of being forward-based," said Col. Mark Ciero, 48th Fighter Wing vice commander. "If called upon, we can quickly respond to support our allies and partners."

Air policing is part of NATO's "Smart Defense" model that incorporates allied nations conducting operations through shared capabilities and coordinated efforts to effectively accomplish missions. NATO countries rotate to provide Airmen and aircraft for the BAP mission, which is slated to continue through 2018.

In the last decade, 14 NATO nations have participated in this mission. This deployment marks the fourth rotation for U.S. forces.

HMCS Protecteur, Crew Arrive Safely to Pearl Harbor

By Staff Sgt. Christopher Hubenthal and U.S. 3rd Fleet Public Affairs

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM (NNS) -- Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Protecteur, guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) and fleet ocean tug USNS Sioux (T-ATF-175) arrived here safely March 6, following recovery efforts led by the U.S. Navy after a fire aboard the Canadian ship last week.

Chosin, guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and Sioux provided assistance to Protecteur and ensured its safe return to port.

Michael Murphy was first to arrive on scene immediately after the fire occurred early morning Feb. 28. Shortly after, Chosin arrived on scene and commenced towing operations while transporting food and water to Protecteur via embarked helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM 37).

"This recent event is proof enough of the need to maintain consistent and continuous readiness," said Capt. Patrick Kelly, Chosin's commanding officer. "With but a few hours notice, Chosin along with Michael Murphy, Sioux and HSM-37 were able to respond to a call to action. We are honored to have been called and proud of the support we were able to provide our fellow mariners."

Sioux took over towing operations March 2 and towed Protecteur for the remaining four days into port. Michael Murphy returned to port March 4 with 19 family members and civilian contractors from Protecteur, as well as a Canadian Sailor with a hand injury.

"The incredible courage of the crew of Protecteur and the resiliency of their families during this tumultuous time is truly inspiring," said Rear Adm. Bill Truelove, commander Maritime Forces Pacific, Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). "The RCN is appreciative of the tremendous support that has been provided by the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and all those involved in helping get Protecteur and her crew safely back to Pearl Harbor."

Protecteur was operating within U.S. 3rd Fleet's area of responsibility, serving as the oil replenishment ship, assisting other ships operating within the area for the month of February. The fire occurred during the ship's transit back to Esquimalt, British Columbia.

The ship will remain in Hawaii for an undetermined amount of time while the RCN conducts an initial damage assessment.

Warrior of the North named AMC Outstanding Chaplain Assistant NCO of the Year

by Staff Sgt. Susan L. Davis
319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2014 - GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Staff Sgt. Nikki Webb, NCO-in-charge of chapel operations for the 319th Air Base Wing Chapel, was recently named the top chaplain assistant NCO of the year for Air Mobility Command.

This latest honor comes to her shortly after also being named the NCO of the Year for the 319th Air Base Wing Staff Agencies, and two-time NCO of the Quarter.

"I was so shocked when I found out I won this award," she said. "I basically just consider everything I did something I would've done anyway, it's my job! But I am truly grateful for this recognition."

Over the past year, the chapel has consistently had no more than two chaplain assistants, which the Stanford, Ky., native said posed some significant challenges, and caused her to fill in for the Senior Religious Support Team normally a role for a senior NCO along with Chaplain (Maj.) Steven T. Dabbs.

"Nikki is extremely diligent--she will not go home until the mission is complete," said Dabbs. "She is also very service-oriented and loves people. She is perfect for assisting clergy."

Webb was also one of only 26 Airmen coined as a "star performer" by the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, and piloted the base's first Spiritual Pillar Wingman Day, coordinating 11 seminars attended by more than 600 Airmen--an AMC benchmark.

She was even responsible for disbursing more than $9,000 on the chapel's behalf, overseeing 59 transactions and earning an "Outstanding" rating for the chapel's government purchase card program.

Outside of the office, she just received her final grade on her last class before earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice, finishing with a 3.5 grade point average.

Finally, she volunteered a total of 124 hours of her personal time, earning the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Webb wanted to make one thing clear: her success is the whole chapel's success.

"We work hard as a team, and that's the one reason why we are so successful," she said. "I work with a great bunch of people, and we all come together to get things done."

She now moves on to compete for Chaplain Assistant NCO of the Year at the Air Force level.

"I absolutely believe Nikki has a great chance of winning this award at the Air Force level, although the competition will be tough," said Dabbs. "We have a number of outstanding chaplain assistants in the Chaplain Corps--she is definitely among our best up-and-coming NCOs. I'm truly proud of her, and consider myself truly blessed to have her on my team."

American300 tour brings Olympians to Malmstrom

by Airman 1st Class Collin Schmidt
341st Missile Wing Public Affairs

3/6/2014 - MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- The American300 tour has come to Malmstrom Air Force Base many times in recent years and with every visit has strived to bring inspiring people, stories and a message of resiliency. This visit was no different. Accompanying Robi Powers, American300 founder, for the beginning of this year's Never Quit Series tour were two Olympians who have had their share of ups and downs and brought not only a message of encouragement, but proof that hard work pays off.

Ann Battelle, former U.S. Olympic mogul skier, and Erin Simmons-Nemec, former U.S. Olympic snowboarder and X-Games champion, joined Powers on a tour of Malmstrom to speak with Airmen about the challenges they faced while chasing their dream of competing in the Olympics. Along the way, the Olympians took time to show their appreciation for military members by speaking with Airmen and learning about what they do on a day-to-day basis.

"The things these Airmen do every day are amazing," Simmons-Nemec said. "If someone needs help, his or her teammate is right next to them pushing them along. For [Airmen], they might think that becoming an Olympian is so far-fetched or that to participate in something like the Olympics would be so incredible. On the flip side of that, we think that what these men and women do on Malmstrom every day is incredible. The work they accomplish and the mission they have here is amazing to us."

During the tour, Simmons-Nemec and Battelle spent hours performing hands-on training alongside Airmen to learn aspects of their careers and get a feel for what they do on a daily basis. The tour kicked off at the base gym with a physical training session alongside Airman Leadership School students and continued on to a first-hand look at a missile alert facility.

Over the course of the tour, the Olympians spoke at multiple shops and met with Airmen at the Elkhorn Dining Facility for breakfast, lunch and dinner to hear their personal experiences of life in the military.

"This has been one of the biggest eye-opening experiences of my life," Battelle said. "Within the 24 hours that I've been here, I have learned so much. I've met people with these incredibly specific jobs that keep our country safe. The work they do is exceptional and it's humbling to see them put their heart into this mission just like we put ours into our training.

"As an Olympian, you need to be at the top of your game during competition, but here you need to be at the top of your game every single day and that is a feat in-and-of-itself," she said.

The theme of this tour was resiliency. During every meeting, it was a goal of the tour's participants to learn one thing that helped Airmen remain resilient and accomplish their goals. In return, they would share personal life experiences, which helped them along the way and a promise that hard work pays off.

"These Airmen are some of the best in the business," Powers said. "Our goal is to give them a boost and inspire them to do great things. I've seen what they do and I know the hard work that goes into this profession. For me, it's been great to see my friends [Simmons-Nemec and Battelle] learn about what goes on here. These guys are the best."

According to Airmen who had the opportunity to listen to the American300 tour guests, it was a great experience and an exceptional learning lesson.

"It was really interesting to meet Olympic athletes," said Airman 1st Class Michael Carrete, 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron member. "To meet someone who has achieved goals that not many Americans have achieved was really inspiring. This was special because these were ordinary people who went on to become Olympians and now they're taking the time to talk with me about what I do and my goals. Speaking with them has motivated me to push myself and see what I can accomplish. Someday, I hope to do great things also."

Hagel, Israeli Defense Minister Discuss Red Sea Operation

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Mar. 7, 2014 – Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Moshe "Boogie" Yaalon yesterday afternoon and received a briefing on Israel's interdiction operation in the Red Sea that seized a suspected Iranian shipment of advanced weapons bound for terrorist organizations operating in Gaza.

In a statement summarizing the phone call, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said the secretary congratulated Yaalon on the operation’s success and reiterated the U.S. commitment to holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing activities in the region, “even as we continue efforts to resolve our concerns over Iran's nuclear program through diplomacy.”

“Secretary Hagel made clear that illicit actions by Iran are unacceptable to the international community and in gross violation of Iran's U.N. Security Council obligations,” the press secretary added.

The Defense Department and the Israeli Defense Ministry have been in consistent touch on Israel's interdiction operation, Kirby said, coordinating extensively through military and intelligence channels.

“The secretary and the minister pledged to continue this close consultation as Israel completes its final inspection of the vessel,” he said, “and reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Israel defense relationship.”

Face of Defense: Airman Overcomes Setbacks to Complete Training

By Air Force Airman 1st Class Robert L. McIlrath

82nd Training Wing

SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas, Mar. 7, 2014 – Transforming from a civilian into today's fighting airman can entail many unimagined obstacles, but one airman in particular faced a series of obstacles head-on, neither faltering nor failing.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Tracy A. Guardado, a 366th Training Squadron electrical systems apprentice course graduate, wasn't deterred by hurdles that forced her to wash back in class on multiple occasions and almost got her sent home early.

Joining the Air Force wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision, Guardado said. It was something she wanted years before she packed up and left for basic training, she explained, but she postponed her plans to tend to family medical issues. "I wanted to join right out of high school, but my mother was sick, so I went to college instead so I could take care of her," she said.

No stranger to hard work, Guardado was a part-time police officer in New Jersey, a part-time volunteer police officer and a full-time inventory manager at a convenience store, all while attending classes at a local college. When her mother died, she said, she decided to join the Air Force Reserve. Guardado arrived here for technical training in June. Stepping off the bus, she met her military training leader for the first time, which would cement the foundation she would need in the upcoming months. Her MTL said she saw potential in the quiet young lady among the new airmen fresh out of basic training.

"I've been her MTL from the very beginning," said Air Force Staff Sgt. LaVanda Jennings, a 366th TRS staff member. "When Guardado first got here, she was very quiet -- very behind-the-scenes."

Air Force training squadrons award leadership ropes worn around the left shoulder of airmen who show potential leadership skills. Green ropes are awarded first to the newest selected leaders. After showing notable leadership skills, they are promoted to wearing a yellow rope, with the possibility of being awarded a red rope. There is only one red leadership rope per squadron.

Guardado wore a red rope.

"When Guardado became an airman leader, it brought her out her shell," Jennings said. "Becoming red rope was huge for her. I couldn't imagine having a better red rope."

Things were going well for Guardado until about halfway through her training, when she was injured while running.

"I rotated my pelvic bone, and I could barely walk," she said. "I couldn't climb the electrical pole."

Most Air Force bases are like cities within themselves. The electrical network is built and maintained by electrical systems apprentices.

"She never let her injury get her down," Jennings said. After her injury, Guardado attended several months of grueling physical therapy sessions, doing everything she could to get healthy. "I had to wait three months before I could start class again," she said.

Once she was walking normally again, Guardado started class, but she had another setback a short time later. In November, with a case of pneumonia put her on medical hold. She was washed back in training again, a waiting period many airmen describe as "limbo."

"When most airmen are in limbo, their care factor dissipates," Jennings said. "She had a very good attitude the whole time. Once she has made up her mind that she is going to do something, that's it. She does it."

After nearly a month of waiting to be healthy enough to start class, Guardano accomplished her goal. She graduated in February 2014 and pinned on her occupational badge.

Guardado said several factors that contributed to her recovery both times. She gained strength from the encouragement of her peers, and the journey would have been more difficult without the professionalism and dedication of her military training leader, she said.

"My peers and MTLs kept my spirits high when I was waiting to start back training," Guardado said. "Staff Sergeant Jennings was there to help me through mentally when I got hurt and got washed back, and again when I got sick."

Air Force Airman 1st Class Melinda L. Sachs, a 366th TRS electrical power production course student, was a roommate of Guardado's. For the few months they knew each other, Sachs said, she witnessed Guardado's dedication firsthand.

"She knows what she wants, and she gets it," Sachs said. "Knowing her has taught me to go after my goals as hard as I can, no matter how long it takes."

After eight months here, Guardado left the 366th TRS on her terms as a graduate.

"Leaving here and going back home is bittersweet," Guardado said. "I've learned so much about everything, and I've gotten to know everyone really well. Being here has shown me what I want to do with my life."

Guardado will join her Reserve unit, and she said she plans on resuming her job as a police officer. In the meantime, she added, she will be looking at the possibility of switching to the active duty Air Force.