40th Airlift Wing hosts local media flight

by Adam Luther
440th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - POPE FIELD, N.C. -- The 440th Airlift Wing invited media from the Fayetteville and Raleigh, N.C. areas to take part in an aeromedical evacuation training flight here, Mar. 10.

Media members were able to witness firsthand the type of training aeromedical personnel undergo in order to stay proficient and current in their career field.  Aeromedical training is already challenging; but this time adding to the difficulty, the aeromeds had members of the media watching their every move, interviewing and taking video and photos of them.

The four-hour low altitude flight consisted of different training scenarios including an in-flight fire, a crew member suffering from a seizure, and performing life saving chest compressions on a patient dummy who received injuries from an improvised explosive device.

The flight path traced the coastline, taking the group over the Outer Banks providing views of four of North Carolina's lighthouses.  Although bumpy at times, at 600 feet above the ground the visions from the C-130H were spectacular.

On the battlefield, the role of an aeromedical evacuation crew is to get wounded servicemembers out of the hostile area to a hospital in a safe location.  The aeromedical evacuation field boasts a 98 percent survival rate once the wounded reach them. 

Harry S. Truman, Carrier Air Wing 3 Conclude OEF Support

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Emily M. Blair, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs

GULF OF OMAN (NNS) -- Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, embarked on board the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG), completed its final sortie in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), March 19.

CVW-3 flew more than 2,900 sorties and more than 16,400 flight hours in support of OEF beginning Aug. 27, 2013.

Lt. Ian Higgins, assigned to the "Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron 32, took part in the final combat sortie, flying an F/A-18F Super Hornet. He flew 27 OEF missions, totaling nearly 170 flight hours.

"It has been an honor supporting the troops on the ground," said Higgins. "Launching our final mission was like any other day, we had to remain focused. Finishing our support of OEF may mean that we are closer to going home, but we still had to make sure the troops on the ground can make it home safely too."

Sailors and Marines performed maintenance, and launched and recovered aircraft daily throughout seven months of OEF support. Capt. George Wikoff, commander, CVW-3, said teamwork was the key to successful OEF operations.

"It begins and ends with teamwork," said Wikoff. "We executed our missions safely and just as we practiced during our pre-deployment exercises. To do that, every Sailor and Marine, every maintainer and every pilot, worked together. That teamwork is what enabled us to provide continuous support to coalition warfighters on the ground in Afghanistan."

Wikoff said that while teamwork within the air wing was key, teamwork between the air wing and Harry S. Truman was equally as crucial.

"Team Truman was a major reason we were so successful," he said. "They're the ones that launch and recover our aircraft and work non-stop to ensure the ship is ready to execute each day's air plan. Without them, we don't launch, and the warfighters don't get the support they need."

Capt. Bob Roth, Truman's commanding officer, echoed Wikoff in saying the teamwork between Truman and CVW-3 was the driving force behind successful support for OEF.

"Aircraft carriers are a powerful tool of diplomacy and power projection," said Roth. "We operated seamlessly with Carrier Air Wing 3 to provide combat air power from the sea. The understanding, respect, and unconditional mutual support between this ship and air wing are what I value above all else. Together, we are unstoppable. This teamwork is what allowed us to support the warfighters on the ground when they needed us to protect them and help them accomplish their mission."

HST CSG Commander Rear Adm. Kevin Sweeney praised both CVW-3 and Truman for the safe and successful execution of OEF flight operations.

"Providing support to the coalition troops on the ground in Afghanistan was one of the main mission areas for us," he said. "I could not be more proud of our young Sailors and Marines. They executed precision, professionalism, and lethality when called upon. In doing so, we also helped build trust and confidence with our partners and allies throughout the region."

Truman and CVW-3 are scheduled to be relieved by USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and CVW-8 later this month.

Harry S. Truman, flagship for the HST CSG, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and supporting theater security cooperation efforts.

Working through the heat to build relationships

by Staff Sgt. Clayton Lenhardt
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The 8th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department hosted Marines and Republic of Korea airmen during a joint training session conducted Mar. 18.

The training was a part of Exercise Foal Eagle and focused on scenarios simulating combined operations in emergency situations. Foal Eagle provides invaluable large-force employment training for U.S. and ROK military personnel.

"This training benefits joint operations here," said Master Sgt. Thomas Gervais, 8th CES assistant chief of operations. "Our interoperability and our ability to work together are integral to the success of the Wolf Pack mission."

The day started with training on ladders, ropes and knots. After lunch the firefighters moved out to the structural trainer, which allows them to do multiple building fire scenarios.

"We can do live fire training in it, we can do ladder training and we can do confined space training," said Gervais. "Also, any type of search and rescue training can be conducted at the structural trainer."

The advantages of practicing together were noted by Col. Carrie J. Bausano, 8th Mission Support Group commander.

"Oftentimes, we're going to be thrown into this mix when a contingency happens," said Bausano. "To have that practice before it actually comes about, will benefit us in the future."

Not only did the firefighters train together, they also shared a meal while experiencing other cultures.

"A lot of laughs were involved and a lot of stories were shared," said Marine Lance Cpl. Christian Alvarez, Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 firefighter. "Here, the Koreans are a lot older than us, they're passing on a lot of knowledge and a lot of experiences that they've been through during the years, and those are just great stories to be a part of."

Yi Son U, 8th CES firefighter, said he enjoyed working with Marines for the first time.

"I can learn about the Marines, Air Force and [American] culture," said Yi.

It doesn't matter what uniform is worn, what country the servicemember is part of, or what language is spoken, at the end of the day it comes down to one important thing: saving resources.

"Once you get over those barriers, it's the same language," said Bausano. "Put out the Fires, save the people, save the assets."

Det. 25: Trainers for maintainers

by Senior Airman Ashley Taylor
354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Their numbers are small, but they work to make a huge impact.

Four instructors and one detachment chief make up the 372nd Training Squadron, Detachment 25, tasked with delivering expert F-16 Fighting Falcon maintenance training to America's Warriors in support of global operations.

An Air Education and Training Command asset, Det. 25 is established here as a tenant unit. Four instructors teach 28 different classes of advanced training year-round, including crew chief instructor, weapons instructor, propulsion and engines instructor, and electro-environmental instructor courses.

"We take Airmen in their career fields and we expand upon that knowledge to make them a better maintainer and communicator," said Master Sgt. William Jernigan, 372nd TRS Det. 25 chief. "Without the communication part of it, it doesn't matter how good you are if you can't properly communicate or project what you need to do."

Four classrooms and a training room allowed the Community College of the Air Force certified instructors to put in 3,920 hours of teaching in the past year, with 155 students graduating from 49 courses.

"These classes are mandated by Pacific Air Forces and have to be taught in order for upgrade training required at certain levels," said Jernigan. "In most courses, the numbers are smaller to give a more one-on-one approach for learning. Too many people at a time would interfere and that makes for a non-conducive training environment."

One of the many training tools used by the detachment is an asset called the Modular Simulated Aircraft Maintenance Trainer, which mimics an aircraft.

"If you try to fix a non-broken aircraft to create a training scenario, you're going to create problems," said Staff Sgt. Ashley Hutson, 372nd TRS Det. 25 electro-environmental instructor. "What the simulator does is allow students to have a jet and test equipment right here to turn a knob without having to actually break the aircraft or use manpower from the unit."

Helping to support Eielson's mission to prepare, deploy and enable while directly supporting the 18th Aggressor Squadron, Det. 25 continues to ensure aircraft are operable so Icemen can fly, fight and win.

"They have the aircraft they need ... but when the aircraft goes to depot it's paramount to get it back in the air," said Jernigan. "It's very important that they have the people who can do the job to fix the aircraft and do it right the first time."

Hagel Discusses Airliner Search With Malaysian Official

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 21, 2014 – Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel spoke this morning with a senior Malaysian government official about the ongoing search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said.

Defense Minister Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein, who also is Malaysia’s acting transport minister, thanked Hagel for the support being provided by the United States, particularly that of the U.S. Navy, and requested that U.S. officials consider providing some undersea surveillance equipment as well, Kirby said in a statement summarizing the call.

“Secretary Hagel assured Minister Hishammuddin that he would assess the availability and utility of military undersea technology for such a task and provide him an update in the very near future,” the press secretary said.

Three member of Team Buckley selected for SMSgt promotion

460th Space Wing Public Affairs

3/20/2014 - BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Three members of Team Buckley were notified of selection to senior master sergeant during the 2014 promotion release March 20.

Congratulations to the following master sergeants:

460th Space Wing
Shaun Weimer - 460th Space Communication Squadron
Willie Frazier - 460th Space Communication Squadron
Ryan Wortman - 460th Operations Group

Air Force Office of Special Investigations
Mat Miles - Det 801

Air Reserve Personnel Center
Christina Duran

Of more than 14, 000 eligible master sergeants only 999 have been selected for promotion, with a selection rate of 6.74 percent.

The average overall score for those selected was 677.15. Selectees' average time in grade was 4.25 years and time in service was 19 years. Other score averages included 134.99 for enlisted performance reports, 20.41 for decorations and 70.26 for the Promotion Fitness Exam.

Selectee promotions will begin in April, in order of promotion sequence numbers.

Selections are tentative until the data verification process is complete, which is no later than 10 days after the promotion release date. Personnel officials will notify Airmen, via military personnel sections, if their selection is in question.

The list will be accessible on the AFPC public news page and social media sites, the Air Force Personnel Services website, and the Air Force Portal.

90th IOS member wins AFSPC award

24th Air Force Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- Capt. Juan Morales, 90th Information Operations Squadron chief of cyber exercises, won the 2014 League of United Latin American Citizens Excellence in Service award at the Air Force Space Command level.

Morales currently serves as the assistant operations officer for the Air Force Mission, United States Military Group at the U.S. embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, which aims to build partner capacity between the two nations.

In this role, Morales directed multiple mobile training teams that supported seven Colombian Air Force bases. This resource greatly enhanced the Columbian Air Force's counter-drug and counter-terrorism capabilities. In addition, he worked to improve success of Columbia's remotely piloted aircraft program by aiding in the opening of the first Columbian RPA School for more than 90 pilots, increasing overall hours flown and improving mission success rate.

Morales was able to create an atmosphere or cooperation between more than 50 Colombian and U.S. personnel and the two countries in general, according to his award narrative. The document states "Capt. Morales is a phenomenal leader and human being. He honed every aspect of the Air Force Mission in Colombia and is pivotal for the U.S.-Colombia Cooperation program."

Morales credits his knowledge of the Spanish language and culture for enabling him to build rapport with the Colombian military.

"I was better able to understand their needs and help in any way we could," Morales said.

In the 90th IOS, Morales serves as the Cyber Modeling and Simulation deputy flight commander. In this role, he fields and integrates advanced cyber technology into Air Force cyber units while managing a staff of more than 40 individuals to integrate full-spectrum cyber capabilities for Air Force, joint and national networks. In addition, he manages a $3 million Air Force Cyber Simulation Center, which enables experimentation, development, fielding and exercising of thousands of cyber capabilities.

Morales earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, which, he says, is his greatest accomplishment in the Air Force.

In his free time, Morales enjoys playing sports, especially volleyball and basketball, and coaching a youth soccer team at JBSA-Lackland.

"I want to thank my leadership at the 90th IOS, 318th Cyberspace Operations Group, 688th Cyberspace Wing, 24th Air Force and Air Force Space Command for their support and for recognizing my work. It feels great to be recognized and makes my family and friends proud," said Morales. "I would also like to thank my peers for their great service. Thank you!"

Character, Courage, Commitment: Lajes community celebrates women's history month

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

3/21/2014 - LAJES FIELD, Azores -- Men and women of the Lajes Field community celebrated Women's History Month at a luncheon here, March 20. The luncheon, part of a series of events in March, was hosted by the 65th Air Base Wing Women's History Month Committee.

The 2014 Women's History Month Theme is "Celebrating Women of Character, Courage and Commitment." A series of luncheon speakers did just that.

Keynote speaker, Chief Master Sgt. Tracy Lewis, 65th Medical Group superintendent, explained that during the course of her Air Force career, she's witnessed numerous changes in women's roles in the Air Force.

"When I was younger, men did not want to work for women in leadership roles and we had to correct them, so that's some of the stuff that happened (even in the Air Force)," said Lewis, a 29-year Air Force veteran.

Lewis argued that Air Force women are shaping the course of history, especially while stationed in or deployed to foreign countries where women have lesser roles in society.

"(People from those countries are) seeing the men interact with the women like we're equals, because in the Air Force we are," the chief said to female Airmen in the audience. "They see women doing jobs that (some women) can't do right now and they see you excelling at them. So you're all a primary example... of helping those countries move forward."

"I am so proud to be a part of this Air Force. Until you stop to think where (women) have come from, you don't realize we've all been part of history," she said.

Four Lajes Field Airmen offered short stories honoring women who had made a significant impact on their personal lives, in their professional field or to women's rights, in general.

Emmeline Pankhurst was a key figure in early women's suffrage movements, explained Airman 1st Class Lateen Chatman, 65th Medical Support Squadron outpatient records technician.

Pankhurst led the militant women's rights group Women's Social and Political Union that fought for women's suffrage in Britain in the early 1900s.

Capt. (Dr.) Joshua Storey, 65th Medical Operations Squadron family medicine physician, enlightened the audience on the accomplishments of Dr. Virginia Apgar, a female doctor who revolutionized obstetrics and neonatal care. Apgar created the "Apgar Score," a grading system that evaluates the health of newborns.

Capt. Maria Jean-Drummond, 65th Medical Operations Squadron nurse practitioner, and Maj. Billy Shaw, 65th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, talked about their mothers. Each relayed tales of their mother's hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Jean-Drummond's mother, Julianna Jean, raised four children and owned and operated a restaurant in Castries, St. Lucia in the Caribbean. Jean then moved to New York City where she worked at Marriott East Side Hotel and was twice named Employee of the Year.

Shaw's mother, Air Force Chief Master Sgt. (ret.) Ann Shaw, overcame the death of both of her parents as a teenager and ended up living in an orphanage. There, she was inspired to join the military by learning about military life from a U.S. Army soldier who volunteered at the orphanage.

Breaking from standard military event protocol, military spouses were asked to provide closing comments.

Melinda Bargery, wife of Col. Chris Bargery, 65th ABW commander, and Micaela Boling, wife of Chief Master Sgt. Alan Boling, 65th ABW command chief, both expressed hope for continued improvements in gender equality and recognizing women's accomplishments

Boling encouraged women to make their opinions known as a means for social progress.

"If you haven't gotten into the practice of speaking up and letting your voice be heard, please start doing that," Boling said. "So many women have paved the way and really given it their all and spoken up when it was hard and when it was unpopular."

Bargery detailed the variety of jobs she's held and noted the freedom she's enjoyed in her professional life.

"In my life, I have worked at a Sears store, I have been a waitress in three different restaurants, I was a resident advisor in my college and after graduating... I was a teacher in Montana and the Philippines briefly," said Bargery. "Here's the thing: military spouse, wife, mother and teacher are the jobs that I choose as my life's work, and I love it. (Because) of all those women who have gone before me, I am free to make the choice that I've made to live my life as I have."

Stepping Up: 100th LRS leaders provide SAPR training

by Gina Randall
100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

3/20/2014 - RAF MILDENHALL, England  -- "The Air Force goal for sexual assault is not simply to lower the number. The goal is zero," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III when he spoke before the House Armed Services Committee in January 2013. "It's the only acceptable objective. The impact on every victim, their family, their friends (and) the other people in their unit is heart-wrenching, and attacking this cancer is a full-time job, and we are giving it our full attention."

The leaders of the 100th Logistics Readiness Squadron took this message to heart and decided to step up by offering new training to their Airmen.

"You all have mothers, sisters and some have daughters, right? Imagine if it was one of them who was attacked," said Maj. Michael Boswell, 100th LRS commander. "We need to look out for our brothers and sisters in our squadron and our Air Force."

Boswell spoke to 100th LRS Airmen during a sexual assault prevention and response two-day training leadership course. The aim of the training was to provide supervisors the knowledge on what to look for in their Airmen and to provide practical tools on how to step in to help a sexual-assault survivor.

Military members learn how to avoid becoming a victim and where they can seek help should the worst happen. But Boswell wanted his Airmen to know how to help their co-workers and their logistics readiness family.

Following the training, an Airman said it was extremely helpful and innovative.

"I think they should have this type of training at more bases, to let supervisors know how to deal with these circumstances," said Tech. Sgt. Miranda May, 100th LRS Vehicle Operations supervisor from Myrtle, Miss.

During most training, participants view statistics and charts; however, this training was very different, and it struck a chord.

Far from slideshows and bar graphs, the group discussed actual cases from Airmen with a story they were brave enough to share. The Airmen could imagine the person in each case. Perhaps the participants could relate to the emotions they felt hearing the stories to those displayed by someone in their office -- someone displaying different personality traits than normal, someone with a burden to bear.

"It's more realistic to talk about real-life situations rather than just seeing a graph, this hints more at someone's voice or reading something someone said or experienced," said Senior Airman Jordan De Jesus, 100th LRS individual protective equipment journeyman from Naples, Fla.

Master Sgt. Karin Pastian, 100th LRS IPE section chief from Garland, Texas, also led the training. Pastian concentrated on rape-trauma syndrome. Her role was to explain the aftereffects of rape -- how a victim would feel the trauma of what has happened to him/her. Senior Master Sgt. Sandra Ruiz, 100th LRS Asset Management superintendent from Mascoutah, Ill., focused on the phenomenology of rape. She explained the study of structures of consciousness, as experienced from the first-person point of view. The training taught those present about what a survivor may be feeling.

Together, they discussed with the group how the feelings would be diverse, ranging from betrayal, self blame and denial to guilt and shame, and often undetectable unless a supervisor knew their Airmen on a personal level.

Pastian and Ruiz wanted this training to be different, and to find other ways for members to take the message away and think about it.

"[Previous training] always focused on prevention and what to do as bystanders, but it didn't teach us as leaders, what to do if something like this does happen to one of our troops," May said.

Following these discussions, Master Sgt. Tamela Sanders, 352nd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron Maintenance Training Section superintendent and a victim advocate from Pensacola, Fla., used visual aids to help the group understand how the personality of a victim may change following a rape. These visual aids included a box of emotions, leading to the soul of the survivor and the personality of that person. Sanders also passed around a jack in the box. This represented a different emotion, and how the people in a survivor's life may never know what emotion would present itself, or at what time.

The 100th LRS leaders expressed they want each and every member of the squadron to be able to come to work and feel safe. They want their Airmen to feel comfortable, and to let them know they will be heard if they have concerns.

Far from previous generations who may have felt victimized for speaking out for what is right; they want the new generation of Airmen to be able to step up and step in if they see unacceptable behavior.

Boswell's message was clear; there is no room for inappropriate "games" in his squadron. Seemingly harmless pranks may seem like a joke to some, but to others it could provoke difficult memories or make people feel uncomfortable.

"Each person deserves the right to feel comfortable at work; and they will in my squadron!" Boswell said.

For more information about this training or other sexual assault-related topics, contact the RAF Mildenhall Sexual Assault Response Coordinator at DSN 238-7272 or commercial at 01638 547272.

Moody hosts WWII veterans

by Airman 1st Class Ryan Callaghan
23d Wing Public Affairs

3/20/2014 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- How far would someone go to bring booze to the party? For one World War II pilot, the answer is round-trip from Italy to Tunisia in his P-38 Lightning fighter plane.

All was going according to plan until, mid-flight, tragedy struck. After retrieving the goods and on his way back to Italy, the thirst-quenching fighter pilot hero made a diving run at a training field to frighten some cadets, and upon pulling out of the dive, he realized he had lost the bottle-filled belly tanks from the bottom of his aircraft.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jack Lenox and former 1st Lt. Ken Taylor shared this and many more of their stories during a visit to Moody Air Force Base, Ga. hosted by the 71st Rescue Squadron, here, March 7.

Maj. Eric Lipp, 71st RQS HC-130J Combat King II evaluation pilot, and his parents Chris and Vicki, organized the visit, giving Lenox and Taylor the opportunity to operate both the HC-130P Combat King and A-10C Thunderbolt II simulators prior to a capabilities demonstration aboard the HC-130J Combat King II.

"I decided that having them here for just a simulator and static display wouldn't be adequate," Lipp said. "We should also take the time to show them the respect they deserve and have them spend time with the 23d Wing to tell their stories and inspire our people."

Lenox and Taylor enlisted in the U.S. Army in the early 1940s, and by 1944, both men were flying as part of the Army Air Forces. Lenox would become an enlisted pilot, known as a "flying sergeant," and Taylor a bombardier.

"I qualified for pilot, bombardier and navigator," Taylor said. "In the meantime, if you washed out [of training] you had to go back to the Infantry, so I chose bombardier. I figured anybody could hit the ground with a bomb."

Lenox was determined to become a pilot immediately after graduating high school in 1941.

"I had read an article in the local newspaper about a new group of people who were flying but were not commissioned officers," he said. "I went to find out about that, and it seemed like I was qualified to go into this program, so I got to boot camp, I put in for flight training and passed the physical to be a flying sergeant."

By the end of their training, Lenox was promoted to flight officer under a warranted commission and Taylor graduated as a second lieutenant.

Post training, both Lennox and Taylor volunteered for combat duty, Lenox learning to fly P-40s and P-51s and Taylor the B-29.

In September 1943, Lenox was sent to Dakar, Africa, as a P-51 replacement pilot to contribute to the Allied war effort but was met with an unexpected twist.

"I got to Africa the first day of September 1943, and there were no P-51s [there], they didn't know what a P-51 looked like," he said. "They didn't know what to do with us! I had been flying twin engine AT-11s at the bombardier school, so they stuck me on P-38s."

The newly transitioned pilots averaged only 25 training hours on their new aircraft. Fortunately for Lenox, flying the P-38 Lightning came easily to him.

"About all we learned how to do was take it off and land it. We didn't get any practice shooting the guns," he explained. "We ended up going from P-51s into P-38s and [the next thing you know] we're flying combat missions."

Lenox named his plane "Snookie", after a woman he was dating, and in December 1943, he and Snookie, along with the 49th Squadron, moved to Italy to become part of the 15th Air Force.

While stationed in Italy, Lenox earned his first aerial victory against a German ME-109 during a dogfight over Athens, Greece. He was flying in formation with the group commander on an escort mission when 15 to 20 ME-109s moved in to attack the bombers he was protecting.

Even though Lenox has cemented his legendary legacy he still tells his story with humorous modesty.

"The group commander rolled his aircraft over and made a diving run toward the enemy fighters down below," he said. "I followed him down, but I didn't know exactly what I was doing. I looked at my airspeed and said, 'oh, that's too fast.'"

While Lenox was focused on slowing down and straightening out his aircraft, he accidentally fell perfectly in place behind a small formation of enemy fighters.

"In front of me were four ME-109s just sitting there in formation, and I was right behind them," he said. "I started shooting at one of them and black smoke was running down his fuselage on both sides."

After his target peeled off the formation and went down, Lenox quickly realized he was gaining on the remaining enemy aircraft.

"I did a tight [maneuver] to the left to get away from the other three, because I was about to pass them up. Then they would be shooting at me!" he said. "Unfortunately putting myself into a maneuver like that ... I blacked myself out."

His aircraft rose almost 2,000 feet before his vision returned, and once he came-to, he found himself in another fortunate position.

"I saw another P-38 by itself, so I scooted up there and got in formation with him. Low and behold, it was the group commander who I had started out with in the first place!"

Flight Officer Lenox flew 51 combat missions totaling 252 combat hours and received a battlefield commission to second lieutenant during his time in Italy.

Meanwhile, Taylor was finally able to join the fight in April 1945 as part of a B-29 crew with the 6th Squadron flying out of Guam. Although the war would end only five months later, he and his crew flew 30 missions, each lasting between 14 and 18 hours, for a total of 428 combat hours. Taylor said two of his flights stand out; the first earning him a Distinguished Flying Cross and the second being the last combat mission flown during WWII.

Taylor's Distinguished Flying Cross citation details the dangerous situation on May 29, 1945.

"While participating in a daring daylight formation incendiary attack, intense anti-aircraft fire scored hits on their bomber," it reads. "Fire broke out, filling the aircraft with smoke."

Despite the hazardous conditions, the crew remained in formation to complete their run.

"The crew prepared to bail out, however after further investigation of the fire and after breaking through the floor boards and using the complete supply of drinking water, brought the fire under control."

With almost no remaining electrical system components, the crew flew the crippled aircraft to an emergency field and managed a safe landing.

When Taylor tells the story, he always enjoys explaining why they had such trouble putting the fire out in the first place.

"We would come to find out that the ground crews were using the fire extinguishers to cool their beer with, and they didn't replace them," he said. "There were a lot of [demotions] when we got back."

By the end of the war, both men had earned their share of victories and a handful of awards to prove it.

In all, Taylor was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Air Medals, two Presidential Citations, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the American Theatre Service Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Iwo Jima Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Lenox is an Ace with four confirmed victories and was decorated with the Silver Star. He piloted 12 aircraft during his career and was also awarded the Air Medal with 11 Oak Leaf Clusters, the European-Middle Eastern- African Campaign Ribbon with two Battle Stars and the Distinguished Unit Citation Ribbon.

Taylor was discharged in December 1945 and Lenox retired from the Air Force in 1967. Both are now enjoying retirement in Florida.

To wrap up his time at Moody, Lenox simply wanted to remind the listeners to be friendly to each other.

"I would hope that people think of all the great friends that they are making for life," he said. "I remember the people that I flew with in the war and realize I really made a lot of lifelong friends. There are a lot of good, good people in the military."

Face of Defense: Ghana Native Serves With Pride as U.S. Marine

By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Joshua Heins

2nd Marine Aircraft Wing

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C., March 21, 2014 – In the United States, winning the lottery means winning a pile of cash. In Ghana, West Africa, the lottery means a new life, a U.S. visa, and for one Marine, a chance to serve.

Lance Cpl. Andrews K. Nsenkyire, an administrative specialist with Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point’s Installation Personnel Administration Center, was living in Ghana when he found out he had won a national visa lottery.

Nsenkyire was one of the 5,832 applicants from Ghana, a country of more than 24 million citizens, who won the opportunity to apply for an immigration visa in 2012.

“One day, when I was in high school, a teacher came into class and passed out some forms telling us to fill them out,” Nsenkyire explained. “I did not know what the forms were for, and to be honest, I had completely forgotten about it."

Nsenkyire went on with his life, with no explanation about the paperwork and no clue his life was about to change forever. Months later, Nsenkyire's teacher, the same one who encouraged him to complete the visa forms, gave Nsenkyire the news: he had won the national lottery.

“I was happy for the chance to apply for a visa,” he said. “I had to go to the U.S. Embassy three times for interviews, to take pictures and fill out forms.”

Money was tight, so Nsenkyire sold most of his belongings -- including his computer, television and motorcycle -- to fund the visa process and travel expenses. With a little help from his visa sponsor, he was on a flight to the United States in May 2012.

“I didn’t come from a rich family,” he said. “But I always wanted to join the military to protect people who can’t defend themselves.”

Nsenkyire said he attempted to join the Army in Ghana, but he was not accepted. Driven by his desire to serve and aided by his new life in the United States, he added, he found the closest recruiting office in Alexandria, Va.

Nsenkyire walked into a recruiting office for the first time in June 2012 and began exploring his opportunities as a Marine almost by chance, he said.

“Once I walked in the office, the first person I saw was a Marine,” he said. “I told him I wanted to join the Army, and his response was, 'No, you don't!' Then he explained to me how good I would be as a Marine."

That was the first time he had ever heard of the Marines, Nsenkyire noted, because Ghana doesn’t have a Marine Corps. He made his decision after he asked his brother about the Marines and he learned they are considered the best fighting force in the world, he said.

Two months after arriving in the United States, Nsenkyire began the enlistment process, which took about five months. He joined the Delayed Entry Program with Recruiting Station Frederick, Md. Nsenkyire said he could not wait to depart for boot camp after joining.

“I was supposed to leave on April 8, 2013,” he said. “I was always talking to my recruiter, Sgt. William Howard – I wanted to go early. One day, he called me and said he had room in his schedule and that I would be shipping out in January.”

After graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C., Nsenkyire completed Marine Combat Training at Camp Geiger, N.C., and military occupational specialty school at Camp Johnson, N.C.

Nsenkyire arrived at Cherry Point in the summer of 2013 and quickly gained a reputation for professionalism and reliability. As a personnel clerk at IPAC's quality control department, Nsenkyire earned a meritorious promotion to lance corporal in November 2013. He recently was named Air Station Marine of the Quarter, and said he plans to continue his track record of success, on and off duty.

“I help solve people's problems,” Nsenkyire said. “I make sure I do my job perfectly, because I’m one of the only people on base who can help with pay issues, so I need to pay attention to every detail.”

Airmen helping Airmen

by Senior Airman Shannon Hall
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Team Dyess held a luncheon March 3, to kick-off the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign. This campaign consists of four different charities that raise money to support active duty, retirees, reservists, guard members and dependents through financial stresses.

Hardships can occur at any time in someone's life and the Air Force has different avenues to help out Airmen during their military career and after.

"I contribute every year because I believe in the Air Force family," said Master Sgt. Brandy Wess, 7th Operations Group first sergeant. "We are members of an institution that takes care of one another, and I understand that my contribution is vital in helping my fellow Airmen through unfortunate events."

As a young Airman, Wess was an eyewitness to how the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign supports those in need.

"When I was an Airman, my son passed away after fighting in the neonatal intensive care unit for three weeks," Wess said. "I could not afford the service and funeral expenses, so my first sergeant coordinated with Air Force Aid to get me a grant.

I continue to be humbled by the support shown to me by my teammates. During an extremely emotional time, they stepped up and had my back," Wess said. "At my son's wake, eight of my wingmen stood behind me at parade rest in their service dress, forming a very protective semi-circle. My family was in awe at the sight. I knew my Air Force family was looking out for me and this mentality is why I became a first sergeant."

The campaign will run until April 11, with Team Dyess' goal this year being to reach $115,000 in donations. Squadron representatives will be visiting all squadrons to inform Airmen about the four charities, answer questions and assist in filling out donation slips for those who choose to do so. Any donation, regardless of the amount, can make a difference.

"Over $17.4 million assisted more than 75,000 Air Force members and their families last year, " said Ron Hooks, Air Force Aid Society officer. "Dyess alone assisted 244 members with $179,786."

Although some Airmen might be reluctant to request assistance, this is exactly why this campaign was created 73 years ago, Hooks said. Airmen can speak with their supervisors, first sergeants or go directly to the Airmen and Family Readiness Center if they ever find themselves in financial discomfort.

Red Flag 14-2 ends; SJ Arimen return home

by Staff Sgt. Chuck Broadway
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/21/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Following two weeks of non-stop operations, more than 200 members of the 4th Fighter Wing returned home from participating in Red Flag 14-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. from March 1-14.

As the host unit for the exercise, the 336th Fighter Squadron sent 14 F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft along with maintenance and other support personnel to represent the largest fighter wing in the Air Force.

Red Flag is a multi-faceted exercise conducted on the Nevada Test and Training Range, which incorporates all domains of warfare including command and control, real-time intelligence, analysis and exploitation, and electronic warfare.

In addition to Seymour Johnson AFB, more than 18 other U.S. military units and five coalition nations participated in Red Flag 14-2, creating a joint learning environment between partner nations.

"For us to be able train as a coalition was invaluable and a great success," said Col. Michael Koscheski, 4th Operations Group commander and acting air expeditionary wing commander for Red Flag 14-2. "Past experience has shown that when we get involved in conflicts we do so as a coalition. We were able to integrate very well (during the exercise) and our partner nations feel more confident in U.S. forces and our capabilities, and vice versa."

Throughout the exercise, the 336th FS "Rockets" went head to head with F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 64th Aggressor Squadron and F-15 Eagles from the 65th Aggressor Squadron, both at Nellis AFB. While there, they incorporated multiple aircraft platforms such as the B-52 Stratofortress from Barksdale AFB, La., and the E-3 Sentry from Tinker AFB, Okla., and Geilenkirchen, Germany, created a joint environment with a steep learning curve.

For several aircrew members from the 4th FW, it was one of the first times they've planned flying operations to include air-to-air, air-to-ground, close air support and bombing missions for a singular objective.

"There was definitely a positive learning curve and we were able to grow our mission commanders by integrating all the squadrons into a package to achieve (desired) effects in the battle space by putting those parts together into a coherent force," Koscheski said.

Koscheski and others referred to Red Flag 14-2 as a success, and the exercise gave a great assessment of where the 4th FW is with their training and what could be improved.

"We are really happy with how we did as a squadron," said Maj. Mike Landers, 336th FS director of operations. "The exercise was an outstanding experience for all of our aircrew, especially our younger members. It provided them with opportunities unavailable to us at home and (allowed us) to see where we stand operationally. A lot of the coalition nations we worked with (at Red Flag), we will work with on future deployments and now we are better prepared for that."

With a focus of integration and today's operational environment, Koscheski stated the experience gathered at Red Flag will help adjust training for combat units as they prepare to deploy.

"For more than a decade now we've been involved in warfare operations in places like Iraq and Afghanistan," he said. "We have done a lot of close air support operations as part of counterinsurgency operations and for us to go against a high-threat competitor like what we saw at Red Flag shows that we need to rebalance our training plans and ensure we are working on capabilities in our portfolio to meet the full spectrum of conflict."

One of Koscheski's goals leading into Red Flag was for this particular exercise to be remembered for the outstanding work done by everyone who played a role. He said the Red Flag staff gave numerous accolades to participants and were proud of the professionalism on and off duty displayed during the exercise.

"I think we set a new benchmark in terms of a successful Red Flag that created a learning environment," Koscheski said. "It went very well and people should take away some confidence that we are prepared for operations now. The big takeaway for Red Flag 14-2 was the coalition and partner nation building. We really integrated with new weapons systems well and I think we set the stage for further integration with coalition partners."