US Ambassador to Uruguay Visits USS America at Sea

From USS America Public Affairs

USS AMERICA, At Sea (NNS) -- Forty high-ranking civilian and military officials from the South American nation of Uruguay visited the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) Aug. 13 to participate in a key leadership engagement.

Distinguished visitors included U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay, Julissa Reynoso; Deputy Chief of Mission, Brad Freden; members of the Uruguay House of Representatives and Senate Defense Committee; and three Uruguay military flag officers.

Once aboard, the guests were welcomed by Rear Adm. Frank L. Ponds, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, and America leadership.

"Our journey around South America has been about partnerships and engagements with our friends and our neighbors," said Ponds. "The United States and Uruguay have a long and meaningful relationship based on the shared values of fairness, respect, dignity and compassion; realized through a fair and transparent democratic process. Today reinforces the mutual commitment and cooperation we share as navies and nations in ensuring the security of our maritime commons; advancing peace keeping operations; addressing transnational threats and; carrying-out humanitarian relief and disaster relief missions."

America Sailors and embarked Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) South provided the distinguished visitors with a tour of the ship's vehicle stowage area, hangar bay, medical spaces and flight deck. During the tour, Marines showcased their humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) capabilities available on board, including their transportable lightweight water purification system.

"As a Navy and Marine Corps team, we must all be ready for unexpected humanitarian missions," said Lt. Col. George D. Hasseltine, commanding officer, SPMAGTF South. "Marines are able to bring incredible capability from the sea to on ground locations expeditiously. Just like our Uruguayan partners, humanitarian efforts are a priority for us, and we train and prepare for these types of missions daily."

Guests had an opportunity to walk through the ship's medical spaces as well and observe America's diverse medical and dental services, including two operating rooms, an intensive care unit, 23-bed ward and bed-surge capabilities.

"We have a highly-trained team of physicians and hospital corpsmen," said Lt. Cmdr. Jian Mei, America's senior medical officer. "America brings with it a robust medical capability. We can perform surgical procedures on board, and provide intensive care and post-surgical monitoring. Our digital x-ray allows us to take an x-ray and consult with doctors thousands of miles away. In the case of humanitarian missions, this ability is essential to ensure patients receive the best treatment available."

Following the tour, guests and shipboard leadership had lunch in the ship's wardroom, and participated in a presentation highlighting America's characteristics, capabilities and ability to support HADR efforts.

"America is an amphibious platform built for aviation-centric missions," said Capt. Robert A. Hall, Jr., America's commanding officer. "The additional space for aircraft, aviation maintenance and storage capacity built into this ship would enable us to remain on station longer to sustain Marine Corps operations ashore. Through flexible lift and air delivery, the Navy and Marines Corps team can provide quick relief along the coast or deeper inland in a humanitarian or disaster relief situation. America can also perform as a command and control center to help coordinate and ensure a unity of effort among partners. A focus area during our transit around South America is to help strengthen existing partnerships and to share lessons learned and experiences on how to best prepare and work together during these types of unforeseen events."

Prior to the guests' departure, shipboard leadership and distinguished visitors exchanged gifts as a sign of respect, cooperation and trust. U.S. Ambassador Reynoso expressed her gratitude for America's warm welcome and hospitality, especially with the ship continuing on her course south.

"I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to share this day with you," said Reynoso. "On behalf of the Embassy and our Uruguayan friends, I cannot express just how grateful we all are. I have family and friends in the U.S. military, so I truly understand the sacrifices these Sailors and Marines aboard make for their country. Events like today truly help build lasting relationships."

America is currently traveling through the U.S. Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility on her maiden transit, "America Visits the Americas". America is the first ship of its class, replacing the Tarawa-class of amphibious assault ships. As the next generation "big-deck" amphibious ship, America is optimized for aviation, capable of supporting current and future aircraft such as the MV-22 Osprey and the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter. The ship is scheduled to be ceremoniously commissioned Oct. 11 in San Francisco.

USS Peleliu Visits Guam

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin Knight, USS Peleliu Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu "Iron Nickel" (LHA 5), the U.S. Navy's only remaining LHA class ship, pulled into Guam for a four-day port visit, Aug. 15.

This marks the first time Peleliu has visited Guam since its 2010 deployment and the first port visit for any amphibious assault ship since the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) visited in 2012.

"Guam [has] a tourist based industry with lots to offer and I believe there is something to do for every Sailor," said Cmdr. Matthew Niedzwiecki, Peleliu's air boss. "'Boonie stomping,' which means hiking in the jungle, to some of the waterfalls is an island favorite and many of the hotels offer dinner shows highlighting the Pacific culture of the Marianas Islands. Every Sailor should expect to have a good time."

Peleliu Sailors will participate in numerous community relations projects (COMREL) and sporting events during their brief stay in Guam.

"Community relations projects help build, develop, and secure important relationships with the people of Guam that endure for years," said Cmdr. Jack Carver, Peleliu's protestant chaplain. "People are impressed upon watching warships pull into port. When they meet the people who operate and maintain the ship they are even more impressed. Community relations give the general public a personal example of the commitment and professionalism that characterizes the way Sailors approach their mission every day."

Carver added the Sailors who participate in the community relations projects will gain a rich understanding and appreciation for the history and culture of Guam.

"We want to return our appreciation for the gracious hospitality that the people of Guam will offer us throughout our port visit," said Carver.

In addition to these COMREL projects, Peleliu's sport teams, including volleyball, soccer, and men's basketball will compete against Guam-based U.S. military teams, as well as host nation clubs.

"Playing sports against locals in foreign ports is great for many reasons," said Lucas Eckstein, Peleliu's fun boss. "It gives Sailors an opportunity to get exercise in other ways than just running on a treadmill or biking on the ship's gym. It's also great for international relations. Playing sports against someone who may not speak the same language as you offers a unique opportunity to forge a connection without speaking a word."

Peleliu's Sailors, most of whom have never visited Guam, will have the opportunity to visit an island rich in local and U.S. military history.

"Guam is fantastic port call for those that enjoy the outdoors," said Niedzwiecki. "I was stationed here for three years and my wife and I enjoyed snorkeling, diving, and hiking. In addition, the Chamorros are very friendly and love to tell you about the island heritage. Hafa adai ["hello" in Chamorro, the native language of Guam and the islands of the Northern Marianas] and welcome to Guam, "where America's day begins."

Peleliu is underway conducting a scheduled Western Pacific deployment after successfully completing Rim of the Pacific exercise 2014, in and around the Hawaiian Islands.

Citizen Airman aided in her drive for excellence

by 1st Lt. Jeff Kelly
442d Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Sixty miles is a long way to walk.

Senior Airman Thelma Smith had few other options to make the trip from her parents' home in Grandview Missouri., to Whiteman Air Force Base for her weekend commitments with the Air Force Reserve. That changed Aug. 8.

A recent divorce and a car with serious mechanical problems left Smith, a member of the 442d Fighter Wing Force Support Squadron, without transportation for months. She was forced to rely on her family, friends and even a few rental cars to fulfill her reserve commitment, get to her civilian job each day and to accomplish the day-to-day tasks required of a single mother.

But fortune smiled on this Citizen Airman when she received a refurbished 2001 Ford Explorer from an organization called "Cars 4 Heroes" at an event held at the Bi-Lo Country Mart in Warrensburg.

Smith was in tears as she received a hug and her new car keys from program founder Terry "Car Santa" Franz. A crowd of local citizens and members of her reserve wing applauded as she sat in her new vehicle for the first time.

"One drill weekend, she called me to ask if she could stay on base so she wouldn't have to spend as much money in gas for her rental car," said Senior Master Sgt. Travis Stickels, 442nd FSS Services superintendent. "This caught my attention and after talking with her I realized the desperate need she had for her own vehicle. She is such a tough and determined person that she never complained about her situation to anyone. We had no idea she was jumping through all these hoops to live up to her reserve commitment and to simply make ends meet in her civilian life."

Smith rented a car for three consecutive months to get back and forth from her parents' home in Grandview, where she lives, to make the trip to her reserve job during weekend unit training assemblies. The drive from Grandview to Whiteman Air Force Base takes roughly one hour.

Stickels received an e-mail from the Cars 4 Heroes program only a few days before he learned of Smith's situation.

"Sergeant Stickels told me about this program," Smith said. "That's how I got here today. I'm so thankful."

Smith, a reservists for six years now, has a 3-year-old daughter and is pregnant with another child due in September.

"I'm going to be able to keep the civilian job that I love because of this," Smith said. "I'm going to be able to support my two girls because of this. My family has been there the whole time for me through all of this but now having this car will help me so much."

In her application, Smith said she desperately needed the car to get to her "dream job" with the Community Blood Center, a position she has held since June 9. Smith's father had been taking her to work every day but now has a job opportunity of his own that means she would have to find another source of transportation to work, day care and appointments, she said.

Franz said that when he notified Smith that his organization was going to be able to help her and that she would be receiving a car, he immediately knew that the Cars 4 Heroes organization had made the right choice in choosing her as a recipient.

"I'm not fixing anyone's life," said Franz. "I'm just giving them a tool to get back on their feet. I do this for our veterans because they deserve it. You can feel the stress come off people when you can do something like this for them. But there is a little selfishness for me to do this too. It's just plain fun."

The program started as "Cars for Christmas" more than 20 years ago, Franz said, a giveaway that was open to any deserving person. But after meeting an injured Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, Franz said the organization focused solely on helping veterans in need and has been donating cars to veterans weekly for the last nine years. All of the cars used by the organization are donated by people who want them to be used for a good cause, Franz said.

"She has been through a lot in the last year," Stickels said. "But she is on the up-swing now and this just tops everything. This could not have gone to a more deserving person. It's good to see when great things happen to great people. She loves helping others and it is great to see someone reach out to help her."

Smith's appreciation was evident in her smile and in the thanks she gave to everyone involved in the event.

"It still doesn't seem real but I'm so glad that it is," said Smith. "I'm so thankful. I've been given a fresh start."

5th BW celebrates 95 years

by Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Today marks the 95th Anniversary of the 5th Bomb Wing. Originally activated August 15, 1919 as the 2nd Observation Group at Luke Field in the Territory of Hawaii, the men and women of the 5th BW have seen action in WWII and Operations Desert Fox, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, to name a few.

It was just 16 years after the Wright Brothers' first 12-second flight when the men assigned to the newly designated 5th Bombardment Group were practicing bombing, navigation, tracking and aerial gunnery training missions. Using the NBS-1 short-range night bomber and the DH-4 light bomber, aviation had come a long way.

Throughout the 1930s, they performed various services for the Territorial Forestry Division in Hawaii. Completing tasks like sowing seeds from the air or dropping supplies and equipment, one of the biggest accomplishments came in 1935, when they saved a city from a volcanic eruption. Using the B-12 bomber to bomb the lava flow, they diverted it to an unpopulated area, leaving the city of Hilo unharmed.

During the '40s, the 5th BG became a more critical part of the nation's security. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, the first aircrews to take flight were from the 5th BG. Presumably using the B-17, two volunteer crews searched for the Japanese task force who had destroyed so much of the Pacific Fleet and Hawaiian Air Force.

Throughout World War II, the 5th BG played a vital role. Raiding enemy bases, supporting ground forces and damaging several Japanese ships, the group received two Distinguished Unit Citations for its efforts. By March of 1945, the 5th BG had moved to Samar, Philippine Islands and in early 1947 was redesignated as the 5th Reconnaissance Group. Their mission was to engage in the Post Hostilities Mapping Program under the auspices of the 13th Air Force. Their aircraft now included B-17s, F-2s, F-9s, F-13s, RB-29s, L-5s and helicopters.

While flying reconnaissance missions over Korea and Puerto Rico during the summer of 1950, the group was informed it would be converting to the RB-36 Peacemaker, and was again redesignated as the 5th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing on November 14, 1950. They received their first RB-36 in January of 1951, and began probing Soviet Union borders to determine their air defense capability. The Air Force was able to draw up war plans based on its discoveries.

The 5th Bombardment Wing stood up in October of 1955 and received its first B-52 Stratofortress February 13, 1959. In an effort to make it more difficult for the Soviet Union to destroy an entire fleet with one attack, the B-52s were dispersed over a larger number of bases.

The '60s marked a busy time for the 5th BW, as half of the wing's aircraft were maintained on alert status, fully fueled and ready for combat. Minot's very on 23rd Bombardment Squadron saw combat during the Vietnam War, attacking targets in Southeast Asia.

In 1965 then Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara directed a phaseout of a portion of the B-52 force, resulting in terminating the wing at Travis AFB. In order to preserve the unit, the wing moved to Minot Air Force Base, N.D. on July 25, 1968, and began flying the B-52H Stratofortress.

After 35 years, the wing pulled its aircrafts from constant alert status in the final days of the cold war in 1991. Following the activation of Air Combat Command, the 5th Wing became the 5th Bomb Wing on June 1, 1992.

More recently, the 5th BW saw combat in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Fox in 1998, attacked targets in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2001 and flew more than 120 combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Today, the 5th BW is home to 26 B-52s and around 4,500 Airmen. Representing one leg of the nuclear triad, the wing embodies our nation's ability to deter our adversaries and assure our allies. The Airmen of the 5th BW are capable of flying anywhere around the world and stand ready to deliver a wide range of munitions. After 95 years of faithful service, the 5th BW still remains the guardian of the upper realms.

Tyndall's mission gets Jazzed up

by Airman 1st Class Alex Echols
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  -- More than 230 Team Tyndall members, 14 F-22 Raptors, eight T-38 Talons and approximately 30,000 pounds of cargo deployed to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans last month to complete training for what turned out to be a record-breaking deployment for 325th Fighter Wing.

The 325th FW's mission is to train and project unrivaled combat power. Six units in the 325th Fighter Wing deployed more aircraft and personnel, conducted more sorties and completed more F-22 basic-course training than ever before.

Twelve 43rd Fighter Squadron student pilots were able to complete 182 flying missions, or sorties, accomplishing three weeks' worth of training in just two weeks.

"This was a highly successful deployment," said Lt. Col. Bill Creeden, 43rd FS commander. "Our mission there was to complete an eight-month training course for a record-size class, culminating in full mission scenarios referred to as Air Combat Tactics, while also practicing baseline readiness skills for all of Team Tyndall."

The Louisiana Air National Guard's 159th Fighter Wing hosted Team Tyndall. At NAS JRB New Orleans, the students were able to fly with and against F-15 Eagles, T-38 Talons, B-52 Stratofortress', E-3 Sentrys, AC-130 Gunships and KC-135 Stratotankers, which vastly supported the requirements necessary to finish their training, said Creeden.

"The benefit you gain by taking your unit to, and operating from an unfamiliar location is exponential," said Creeden. "Executing your mission in a disparate and dynamic environment increases a unit's overall ability and confidence taking you out of the normal day to day way of doing business."

This could not have happened without the combined efforts of 234 total personnel from the 43rd FS, the 43rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit, the soon to be 2nd Fighter Training Squadron, the 325th Maintenance Squadron, the 325th Maintenance Group and the 325th Security Forces Squadron. The 325th Logistics Readiness Squadron also played a vital role in deploying and redeploying all of the personnel and cargo, said Creeden.

The 43rd AMU and 325th MXS were crucial to making this mission happen.

"Without maintainers, pilots don't fly," said Capt. Byron Silkett-Irvine, 43rd AMU officer in charge. "Our role was to ensure our aircraft were fixed, inspected and ready to go each day. This was another example of the 43rd AMU and the 325th MXS coming through for the 43rd FS in a remote location."

During last year's deployment, the 43rd FS was only able to complete 96 of its planned sorties, said Silkett-Irvine. This year, that number almost doubled. This was largely due to the fact that no sortie went uncompleted due to a maintenance issue.

"This was by far the most successful TDY that the 43rd AMU has ever put on, and the numbers support that," said Silkett-Irvine.

"I have never been around an AMU that has the morale, drive and desire to succeed as evident by the maintainers of the 43rd AMU, and it was evident out there," said Creeden.

The 325th Operations Group Adversary Air Squadron, which will become the 2nd FTS on Aug. 22, provided T-38s to act as additional adversaries to engage alongside the NAS JRB New Orleans' squadrons.

"We provided six adversary aircraft both morning and afternoon each day to enable 43rd fighter squadron student training," said Lt. Col. Derek Wyler, 325th OG Adversary Air Squadron commander. "We integrated with F-15s from New Orleans to provide a robust adversary capability, and once again demonstrated the ability to go on the road to support the 43rd FS or the 95th Fighter Squadron, providing the same world class threat replication that we do at home."

Each of these components came together to deliver top-notch training necessary to graduate eight new F-22 pilots to the Combat Air Force.

AWACS upgrade achieves initial operational capability

by Darren D. Heusel
Tinker Public Affairs

8/15/2014 - Tinker Public Affairs -- The Commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. Mike Hostage, declared Initial Operational Capability for the 552nd Air Control Wing's E-3G "Sentry" Airborne Warning and Control System Block 40/45 aircraft July 28 here.

"This modification represents the most significant upgrade in the 35-plus year history of the E-3 AWACS and greatly enhances our crewmembers' ability to execute the command and control mission while providing a building block for future upgrades," said Col. Jay R. Bickley, 552nd ACW commander.

Colonel Bickley said meeting this milestone is a testament to outstanding teamwork as evidenced with the great partnership enjoyed between the 552nd ACW, ACC, the AWACS System Program Office, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex and the wing's contracting partners.

Gordon Fitzgerald, the 552nd ACW's director for Requirements, said six Block 40/45 modified aircraft have been delivered to the 552nd ACW and two of the E-3G models have been successfully deployed in support of counterdrug operations.

He went on to say the wing has Block 40/45 specific parts, support equipment and technical data on hand. The wing has also completed initial training and initiated a structured plan for ongoing training.

"We are confident we can deploy and support this important weapon system worldwide," Mr. Fitzgerald added.

Brig. Gen. Gene Kirkland, OC-ALC commander, said the complex workforce is proud to be part of an important operational milestone.

General Kirkland said there is still much left to do to give the 552nd ACW more 40/45 capable platforms.

Colonel Bickley praised the many members of the AWACS team who made the milestone possible, adding, "This is a great asset for U.S. command and control and a milestone we can all be proud to be a part of."

The 552nd ACW is home to the E-3, with 27 of the fleet's 31 AWACS aircraft being housed at Tinker Air Force Base. Of the remaining four aircraft, two are stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan, and two are at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska.

According to Mr. Fitzgerald, the entire fleet of E-3 aircraft will be upgraded by FY 2020.
Known for its signature black-and-white rotating radar dome that sits on top of the aircraft, the E-3 Sentry provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by commanders of U.S., NATO and other allied air defense forces.

In support of air-to-ground operations, the Sentry can provide direct information needed for interdiction, reconnaissance, airlift and close-air support for friendly ground forces. It can also provide information for commanders of air operations to gain and maintain control of the air battle.

As an air defense system, E-3s can detect, identify and track airborne enemy forces far from the boundaries of the U.S. or NATO countries. It can direct fighter-interceptor aircraft to enemy targets. The E-3 Sentry is designed to respond quickly and effectively to a crisis and support worldwide military deployment operations.

With its mobility as an airborne warning and control system, the Sentry has a greater chance of surviving in warfare than a fixed, ground-based radar system. Among other things, the flight path can quickly be changed according to mission and survival requirements. The E-3 can fly a mission profile for more than eight hours without refueling. Its range and on-station time can be increased through in-flight refueling and the use of an onboard crew rest area.

The 552nd ACW has had a continuing presence in the Middle East, flying over 14,000 sorties and logging more than 130,000 flying hours from 1980 to 2003. In 2003, the wing returned to Tinker AFB for a break in deployment. The break didn't last long. In early 2007, the wing returned and reestablished its presence in the region.

Buckley hosts IRR muster

by Tech. Sgt. Rob Hazelett
Air Reserve Personnel Center

8/15/2014 - BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Buckley Air Force Base held an Air Force Individual Ready Reserve muster screening here Aug. 7. IRR musters are mandatory formations hosted by a Total Force Air Force installation commander and conducted at active duty, Guard and Reserve installations.

Selected IRR members attending the one-day event received informational briefings on readiness and personnel accountability.

Members also benefited from taking advantage of a face-to-face opportunity to verify and update their contact and medical information, thereby increasing the timeliness and efficiency in ARPC's ability to contact the IRR in the event of mobilization.

The screening program strives to enhance readiness, boost combat capability and streamline reporting procedures in the event of a call-up. The musters not only help to enhance the readiness and reporting of the pre-trained individual manpower population, but have been an effective tool in recruiting trained assets and exposing IRR members to an array of career opportunities.

Additional objectives of the IRR muster program are to verify and update personal data on each member; ensure Air Force compliance with legal responsibilities for IRR screening; ensure availability and maintain readiness of IRR members for mobilization; determine skill proficiency degradation and evaluate the need for refresher training to maintain minimum proficiency of IRR members.

Red Flag-Alaska keeps training relevant to flyers, maintainers

by Air Force Staff Sgt. Blake Mize
JBER Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Although the way wars are fought has changed dramatically over the years, and fighter aircraft are not always used as much as they once were, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh has stressed that training opportunities such as Red Flag-Alaska will be integral to the development of the force moving forward.

RF-A is meant to put pilots in combat situations and ensure their ability to thrive in such situations. Red Flag officials say Alaska's vast airspace provides the perfect
training area to refine those capabilities.

"The Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Complex airspace allows aircraft to practice tasks that cannot be accomplished in other areas," said Air Force Lt. Col. Dylan Baumgartner, commander of the 353rd Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 1, out of Eielson Air Force Base. "The large volume of sky and lack of population throughout most of the range space allows for full use of aircraft capabilities, such as extended supersonic flight, which isn't available in most training areas.

"Red Flag-Alaska has a focus on the Pacific theater and many allies and partner nations come here to train with their U.S. counterparts," Baumgartner continued.
"This will support the U.S. pivot to the Pacific theater and allow the U.S. and its allies to operate more effectively together."

RF-A is a joint/coalition, tactical air combat employment exercise, which often involves several units whose military mission may differ significantly from those of other participating units.

Originally named COPE THUNDER, it moved to Alaska from Clark Air Base, Philippines in 1992 after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo forced the curtailment of operations there. COPE THUNDER was re-designated Red Flag-Alaska in 2006.

"Red Flag [then COPE THUNDER] was developed after the Vietnam war to increase the lethality and survivability of crews in combat," Baumgartner said.

"Historically, aircrews are most vulnerable to being shot down during their first 10 combat missions - a truism which dates to World War I and the beginning of air combat. Red Flag is designed to provide crews with their first 10 simulated combat sorties in a challenging yet controlled environment, which allows them to make mistakes in training which would have killed them in combat."

This training is a beneficial experience for newer pilots and maintainers who are seeing their first "combat," Baumgartner said, but that is also true for those who will lead them into battle.

"It trains not only the newest aircrew, as originally designed, but also provides a challenging environment for training mission commanders, who are certified to lead large formations of aircraft into combat," he said. "RF-A provides a venue for planning, executing and debriefing large-force exercises to train new mission commanders."

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base team to host RF-A four times a year and each installation brings unique capabilities that contribute to the training.
"The 18th Aggressor Squadron [from Eielson] provides realistic enemy replication using specially trained pilots and controllers," Baumgartner said. "They simulate a variety of enemy aircraft using uniquely painted F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. The 353rd Combat Training Squadron and Detachment 1, 354th Operations Group (JBER) provide exercise planning and execution support as well as operate the land-based threat systems and maintain the targets on the respective bombing ranges."

In addition to the Alaska units, Air Force units from all over the world participate. All four U.S. military branches are represented and a varying number of international allies take part in the quarterly training.

"In this RF-A [14-3], the U.S. and Australia are the participating nations, but typically we see approximately 16 nations during four exercises throughout the year," Baumgartner said. "All four U.S. services are participating. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aircraft are flying along with U.S. Air Force aircraft. U.S. Army personnel are involved in operations in and around Eielson and Fort Greeley, Alaska in the landing zones and bombing ranges contained in the JPARC."

C-17 division leadership transitions from Wright-Patt to Robins

by Jenny Gordon
78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/8/2014 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The C-17 System Program Office here has experienced another milestone with the recent transition of division leadership from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

Col. Amanda Myers has assumed leadership as the Air Force's C-17 system program director, a position which is now based at Robins as part of a series of moves which began in 2009.

While Wright-Patterson will maintain capabilities development and the chief financial officer position, Robins will continue to focus on C-17 sustainment.

The C-17 system program office transition here is estimated to be completed by 2016, with the potential to include an additional 80 to 95 personnel.

The division, which includes foreign military sales and Boeing representatives, could grow to a total workforce of about 350.

Col. John Newberry, deputy program executive officer for Air Force Mobility Programs with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at WPAFB spoke highly of the accomplishments of the program and how it has evolved from its initial concept in the late 1970s to its full inception into the Air Force's mobility fleet.

"This is an exciting time for the C-17 program as we enter into the next chapter with the transfer of leadership to Robins," he said. "Col. Myers has the skills needed to oversee the continued sustainment and modernization of the C-17 fleet."

The previous construct was split between two senior materiel leaders, and consisted of the system program director -- recently retired Col. Andrew Ingram who was stationed at WPAFB -- and the outgoing system support manager Col. David Morgan.

The C-17 System Program Office with personnel located at both Robins and WPAFB plays a crucial role in the sustainment, modification, maintenance and overall service of the entire fleet.

Working closely with Boeing, the office has ensured that the Air Force can execute its core function of rapid global mobility while building a reputation of safety, capability and remarkable reliability.

Since its initial operational capability was declared in 1995, the entire C-17 fleet with FMS partners has flown more than 2.8 million flight hours with a cumulative 756,422 sorties in support of military operations, exercises, patient transport and humanitarian relief.

The Air Force received its final C-17 Globemaster III in the fall of 2013.

Myers recently attended the U.S. Army War College, and was formerly the T-38 system program manager at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.

She has encouraged members of the C-17 team to continue to provide the best support possible to the warfighter, and said her job is to ensure all tools and resources are available to make that happen.

In the words of her favorite president, Abraham Lincoln, she said, "Whatever you are, be a good one. You all have an important role to play. Our mission is so important that I will expect a lot from you. And you are so important that you should expect a lot from me."

Legislators from a dozen states take tour of JBER

by Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett
JBER Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- A cross-section of state legislators from more than a dozen states across the U.S. visited Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Monday as part of the Council of State Governments of the West.

Air Force Col. Brian Bruckbauer, 673d Air Base Wing and JBER commander, briefed the group of approximately 50 legislators.

They were shown around the installation and saw demonstrations of the importance and capabilities of the joint base.

"It's a real pleasure to be able to share the people, facilities and missions of JBER with my colleagues from around the country," said Alaska state representative Dan Saddler. "CSG brings some people from the legislative, judicial and executive branches of the entire country here. It's great to be able to show the rest of the country what Alaska has to offer and the responsibilities JBER bears for our nation's defense.

"It's a real thrill to educate them about what the military does here."

The lawmakers toured the 90th Fighter Squadron to view a static display of an F-22 Raptor, and visited U.S. Army Alaska's Combatives Academy for demonstrations of modern hand-to-hand training. Through these activities, the politicians learned about the scope of the JBER mission.

"I really enjoyed the hand-to-hand combatives," Saddler said. "It's an aspect of the military people don't get to see that often. It's a rough, mean world out there and I'm pleased to know that there's good training to make sure that the Soldiers and the Airmen can stay safe and take the fight to the bad guys. It was very entertaining, too. "

At the end of their tour, the group met with members of the Alaska Civil Air Patrol to learn what CAP does in the Final Frontier state.

"I love Civil Air Patrol. I'm a pilot myself and if I ever go down by mistake, I want young, skilled people like these out there looking for me," Saddler said. "It's great to get young people the opportunity to learn leadership skills, and to plus-up the great search-and-rescue team here in Alaska. I wish more kids knew about it, and more kids were involved in it."

The tour was part of an annual legislature meeting in Anchorage.

The CSG West is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that serves the western legislatures of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. 

Associate members include the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia and the Pacific islands of American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands and Guam.

Founded in 1947, CSG West is one of four regions of the Council of State Governments that form part of a national community of states. 

CSG's regional and national structure invites focused participation from members on a more intimate, regional level while also providing a national platform to exchange ideas and information. 

This structure allows western lawmakers to engage with state officials of all three branches of state government, access national policy research and stay abreast of national trends and developments in Washington, D.C. impacting state governments, according to their website.

Spartans jump into Big Lake to practice water landings

by Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Smith
4-25th IBCT Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Paratroopers with the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, took advantage of the pleasant Alaska summer by carrying out a water-landing airborne operation Aug. 6 at Big Lake.

The day-long exercise, jointly assisted by the Alaska National Guard's 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment, used a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters to airlift 200 Soldiers, six at a time, over the lake for the jump.

The Spartan Brigade used the training event to further enhance and broaden its range of airborne capabilities.

The water jump was a first for many paratroopers, and the operation was the first of its kind for the unit since 2011.

"I'm pretty excited! This is actually my first UH-60 jump, and first water jump," said 1st Lt. Mekko Gillen, an ordnance officer and jumpmaster with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, shortly before her jump.

"I think it will help me for future airborne operations. I'm hoping to gain a lot of knowledge from this experience," Gillen said.

The excitement of the upcoming jump resonated throughout the formation.

Sgt. Joseph Beasley, an allied trade specialist, also with Fox Co., 2-377 Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, said, "I've jumped from Black Hawks before. They're pretty amazing, and hitting that water should be pretty good, too."

Safety is a key component in all airborne operations. The Spartan Brigade trains continuously to maintain proficiency, so confidence was high among the troops.

"I'm confident in all of these jumpers and jump masters," said Beasley.

He said the training they have done in preparation for the jump has made him even more confident.

"It was awesome," said Pfc. Tyler Steane, a healthcare specialist with Blackfoot Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry Regiment. "It was definitely a lot more peaceful, [than an airplane jump]; quieter coming out, you can actually communicate with your other jumpers. We were talking about moving our equipment properly, a quick question here and there, and then, 'Hey, there's the water!'"

The water temperature was mild, and not as cold as many had anticipated.

"It was warmer than I expected," said Steane. "The air coming in from the helicopter was cold, so when I hit the water, it was a lot warmer. It was nice, the floatation device worked well too."

The floatation device is employed about 200 feet above the surface, and it tucks efficiently under the arms for easy maneuverability.

"I hit the water and was under for a fraction of a second, and just came back up," said Steane. "I looked up to make sure my canopy was going over my head. There were no issues. It was a perfect jump!"

Steane said the training leading up to the water jump included practicing many safety standards.

Swimming pool training included various floatation drills, treading water, and techniques on how to prop up the canopy to create an air pocket in the event it covers the paratrooper while in the water, along with training on how to swim out from under it.

"Everything was done with extreme safety standards," Steane said.

Training, safety, and fun were all mixed together during the event which was shared by community members of Big Lake and Spartan families as they watched paratroopers leap out of the helicopter, float down, and splash into Big Lake.

Stratcom Conference Focuses on 21st-century Deterrence

by Jim Garamone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

8/14/2014 - WASHINGTON -- How strategic deterrence has changed and whether the United States is equipped for deterrence in the 21st century are among the questions that will be debated at the U.S. Strategic Command Deterrence Symposium in Omaha, Nebraska, Stratcom's commander said today.

Navy Adm. Cecil D. Haney kicked off the two-day symposium this morning.

"At the heart of any deterrence analysis is the understanding of the strategic landscape," the admiral said.

Today's world is a complicated place, Haney said, and he listed some of the concerns that America must address. He noted the continuing threat from North Korea and Iran. He talked about the ongoing threat in Syria and Iraq posed by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists. The Russia-Ukraine situation, transnational criminal groups, Israel and Palestine, frictions in the Western Pacific, terrorism and threats in the cyber realm all are concerns and all must be addressed, he said.

"Despite the unrest around the globe," he added, "I firmly believe that strategic deterrence is relevant and is working."

At its base, deterrence means adversaries understand that the response to actions they take would be unacceptably costly, so they refrain from taking those actions.

But deterrence has changed since the last half of the 20th century, when mutually assured destruction served as its basis, Haney said. Today, he said, it is about deterring strategic attack on the United States and its allies, dissuading adversaries from actions that would counter stability and peace, and partnering with other combatant commands so all can work together to demonstrate U.S. resolve.

Nuclear deterrence has its place, Haney said, and Stratcom must ensure these weapons remain viable. But the nuclear triad, global conventional strike capabilities, defense in space and the cyber realms are just a part of deterrence, he added. It also includes robust intelligence capabilities, a credible missile defense system and a robust communications and ground infrastructure, he said.

But rogue states, terror networks and transnational criminal networks, the admiral said, are willing to pay to develop capabilities that threaten America and this changes the deterrence calculus.

"Threats are evolving at an incredible pace in this complex world," he said. "We must look at each one differently, but in an integrated manner, to make sure we get the deterrence solution right."

The United States, allies and partners must ensure adversaries understand that "restraint is always the better course," he said.

Haney stressed that recapitalization is needed to maintain effective deterrence in this century. He mentioned the Ohio-class submarine replacement program, upgraded radars and survivable communications systems, missile defense investments and investments in people as the most pressing needs.

"We should not overlook the value to the nation of a credible strategic deterrent now and into the future," the admiral said.

Chaplain's assistant helps Airmen, families keep the faith

by Gina Randall
100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

8/13/2014 - RAF MILDENHALL, England  -- Many service members and their families may turn to their faith in difficult times. Whether it's marriage, finance, family or work problems affecting the spiritual or mental health of Airmen -- the chapel is there to help.

One such Airman serving the chapel, and the community, is U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Joshua Hartvigsen, 100th Air Refueling Wing NCO in charge of chapel readiness and training from Bountiful, Utah.

He sees the stress the community is under and wants to help. He believes in the Air Force and the way of life it offers people and their families. But life isn't the same as it was when he joined in October 2003.

"Take it as it is, it's a changing Air Force. You've got to come in with an open mind," Hartvigsen said. "You've got to come in knowing that you might only be here for your enlistment, or for longer."

But he knows it isn't just the military world that is changing; military leaders are reacting to an ever-evolving world.

"Everything is so uncertain right now. I think that's the times as well. We live in a world that is really unstable. Sometimes you have to react to it," the Utah native said. "If you do join, live your day, do your best that you can every day, take advantage of all that the Air Force has to offer."

It's at times of uncertainly that many people look to their faith to offer a sense of stability -- something that will always be a part of their life no matter what country they are stationed in.

The chapel offers a wide range of support to the Air Force community with many programs, including Protestant Women of the Chapel, bible study, men's bible study group, single Airmen bible study group, and Mothers of Preschoolers where a group of moms get together to offer support to each other.

"They have an uplifting message, they can bring their kids, it gives the moms some time to themselves, it gives kids time to play with other kids and run some energy out before going home. It's a time for the moms to get revitalized," the NCO added. "We've got Club Beyond that we work with over at RAF Lakenheath. We're really involved with that program as well as Approved Workman Are Not Ashamed which is geared toward the younger group of kids."

He helps get the programs, which begin in September, ready and keeps them running.

"It's more of helping the community in the bigger scheme of things. We have these programs that help individuals get connected," Hartvigsen added.

Hartvigsen enjoys his job as a chaplain's assistant, ensuring the chapel is ready for the community. He helps takes care of the logistics in the chapel. He makes sure the facility is looking its best to offer a sanctuary for users.

"As well as with the chaplains out in the squadrons, we team up with them in religious support teams," he said. "We're out there probing the morale, finding out what the pulse of the base is so that we can up channel our thoughts to leadership."

Base leaders care about their Airmen and their families and want to balance getting the demanding mission done with less people, while still allowing them time to work on their spirituality.

Many service members don't always have time to come to the chapel when they dedicate so much of their time to the mission. So the chapel believes in getting out into the work centers.

"If they can't come to the chapel, the chapel comes to them. I enjoy getting out and meeting different people. Being out in the units has really opened my vision of a bigger Air Force," Hartvigsen reflected. "Even though people may think they have an insignificant part, they really do have a huge place in the bigger scheme of the Air Force. It's like a jigsaw puzzle, with one piece missing, the whole puzzle can't be completed."

Meeting the community also helps develop Hartvigsen as an NCO, and as an Airman. He learns a great deal from the Airmen -- knowledge he can use to help others.

"The other thing I like is actually going out there and participating and learning what others do. Sometimes we have the ability to do that. We've gone on refueling missions to learn about their job so we can get a better understanding of what they do. We go over to the comptroller squadron to find out what finance does and learn the ropes," he said. "It broadens your horizons. That's what I really enjoy, being out there and helping individuals with issues that they might have in their life."

Coming in hot

by Airman 1st Class Trevor T. McBride
48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England -- In a world where tragedy can strike at a moment's notice, the 48th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department honed their response, communication and live-fire procedures during fire training on a mock F-15 Aug. 12-14.

"Live-fire training ensures that firefighters are able to save lives and protect government assets, by performing the required tactics and techniques, in the event of an aircraft fire," said Master Sgt. Daniel Parker, 48th CES fire chief.

According to Parker, this training is required twice a year and is vital to all ranks.

"Even our most senior firefighters require this training to avoid skill fade and to keep their qualifications current," Parker said. "We train for muscle memory so our firefighters can have confidence in their job."

The live-fire training proved to be beneficial to Airman 1st Class Matthew McPherson, 48th CES firefighter.

"I feel that the training is a vital asset for the fire department, because it keeps our skills sharp to maintain proper techniques for an emergency situation," McPherson said. "You can actually feel the heat as if it was an actual aircraft fire."

To do this, there is behind-the-scenes work that ensures a successful training event.

"We have to send out notifications to all of the base agencies in advance to avoid false calls," Parker said. "We also have to make schedule changes to ensure all firefighters are receiving the training."

Although the live-fire aircraft can produce large flames, the fire on the mock-up is controlled to ensure the safety of the firefighters.

"The aircraft control tower operator has an overall view of the area and has the ability to conduct an emergency shutdown in the case of an emergency or mishap," Parker said. "It allows us to ensure our firefighters get the proper training and use effective techniques to put the fire out.

"It is real. They can see it, feel it, and it comes down to them using sound judgment and making the right decisions during the event. Fortunately, there are not many real-world aircraft incidents thanks to great Air Force Fire Prevention and Safety programs."

Parker said live-fire training prepares firefighters for real-life situations and it's what the 48th CES lives for.

"I always get excited to get out and train because you're brushing up on skills that needed work or learning something new," McPherson said. "I feel our teamwork made everything run smoothly and communication was key to mission success."

Teach the Chief: Meet Airman 1st Class Caitlynn White

by Senior Airman Shannon Hall
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Airman 1st Class Caitlynn White, 7th Force Support Squadron force management technician, was shadowed by the 7th Bomb Wing command chief as part of the "Teach the Chief" program.

This program was implemented for senior leaders to gain first-hand experience and knowledge about what enlisted members accomplish every day to support the Dyess and Air Force mission.

A1C White is from Nashville, Tenn., and joined the Air Force right out of high school. She has been stationed at Dyess since March 2014 working in the Evaluations and Classifications office. Her days consist of processing enlisted and officer performance reports, updating members' special duty pay and their duty statuses.

Chief Master Sgt. Eddie Webb, 7th Bomb Wing command chief, shadowed White at the evaluations office, learning how to close out EPRs and OPRs for the base.

"It was a neat experience to spend the day teaching Chief Webb how to do some of my job," said White. "He took time out of his busy schedule to step into my boots and learn from me. He is a great role model, gives good advice and taught me a lot as well."

Although White has been in the Air Force for less than a year, she has excelled in her job and in the Abilene community.

White recently volunteered for the Alameda Spring Cleaning event, where she spent her time picking up trash. She also volunteered at the Abilene Zoolute event, assisting zoo patrons visiting during the yearly salute to military members.

"Chief Webb helped me realize that you have to make the best out of everything," White said. "Therefore, I want to always exceed in everything I do. I plan on becoming a senior non-commissioned officer, getting my education and becoming a doctor."

Thursdays with the Chief: Meet Senior Airman Ryan White

by Senior Airman Shannon Hall
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Senior Airman Ryan White, 7th Component Maintenance Squadron support technician, shadowed the 7th Bomb Wing command chief as part of the "Thursdays with Chief" program.

The program helps Airmen understand the big Air Force picture and allows them behind closed doors to experience first-hand the work put in by command chiefs.

Senior Airman White, a native of Baltimore, Md., has been stationed at Dyess for three and a half years, working as an aerospace propulsion journeyman.

White spent an entire day shadowing Chief Master Sgt. Eddie Webb, 7th Bomb Wing command chief, attending a wing staff meeting, luncheons and sitting in on various meetings.

"It was very enlightening to spend my day with Chief Webb," White said. "He inspired me to better understand how all the base counterparts form together to oversee and maintain our war fighting capability."

Airmen selected for this program are chosen based on their outstanding achievements.

White recently volunteered at the Taylor-Jones Humane Society, donating his personal time to help others by relocating two storage sheds for an annual yard sale. In his primary job, he restored his sister flight's tool tracking system, which prevented manual input of over 6,000 tool inspections, and was named Airman of the Month for December 2012 within his squadron.

"Even with all that I have accomplished I still have a ways to go," White said. "I would like to make at least one permanent improvement to more efficiently accomplish the 7th Bomb Wing mission."

4th FW breaks ground for new medical group clinic

by Airman 1st Class Aaron J. Jenne
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 4th Fighter Wing broke ground for the construction of the new 4th Medical Group Thomas Koritz Clinic here Aug. 12, 2014.

The $53 million construction project features a 106,500 square-foot, energy-efficient facility to replace the existing 4th MDG clinic.

"Today represents a benchmark in the history of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base," said Col. Mark Slocum, 4th Fighter Wing commander. "This facility is going to bring new efficiencies to patient care and customer expectations."

Construction of the outpatient medical facility is scheduled to begin in January of 2015, with completion scheduled for middle to late 2016.

The new facility will be one of the most significant upgrades to Seymour Johnson AFB in the last 30 years, said Slocum.

"The project will bring a brand new, state-of-the-art facility complete with the integrated technology necessary to ensure the health and wellness of the community and maintain a combat-ready and deployable force," Slocum said.

The project will undergo several phases over the next two years, including building construction, transition to the new facility, demolition of the old facility and restoration of the grounds.

The new facility's improvements extend beyond technological capabilities and accessibility. The architects' designs pay homage to aviation history and maximize energy efficiency.

Currently, the total operating cost for all 4th MDG utilities exceeds $30,000 per month. Through the use of natural light and more environmentally friendly practices, the clinic hopes to cut energy costs in half.

According to Slocum, by improving patient flow, space utilization and energy efficiency, the vastly improved facility, in conjunction with its medical professionals, will provide an unrivalled patient care experience.

According to Slocum, by improving patient flow, space utilization and energy efficiency, the vastly improved facility, in conjunction with its medical professionals, will provide an unrivalled patient care experience for more than 37,000 active duty, Reserve, and retired members and their families who use the medical facilities.

"Our new building will house an amazing medical home for our patients, and the 4th Medical Group will continue to deliver ready medics and quality care," said Col. Eleanor Nazar-Smith, 4th Medical Group commander. "This is an exciting day for the 4th Fighter Wing. We're proud of what will be an incredible facility and home to our vital Strike Eagle Medics and the patients they serve."

New inspection system taking form at Nellis

by Staff Sgt. Siuta B. Ika
99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- The publication of Air Force Instruction 90-201, Air Force Inspection System, brought fundamental changes to the way the base conducts inspections.

Under the new system, units will no longer be spending weeks and months preparing for a one-week inspection from the Air Combat Command Inspector General team, explained Col. Richard Boutwell, 99th Air Base Wing commander.

"In the past, we've spent a lot of resources and manpower in gearing up for an inspection, which is really a 'snap shot' of our climate at that particular moment," Boutwell said. "The new system will allow us to have more inspections throughout the year, so we'll have more of a 'portfolio' of how we're doing, so we can assess how well we're doing more accurately. The analogy was we would go out and paint the grass for the inspection, but now we're going to cultivate that grass and maintain it."

Another important change in the new AFIS is the Commander's Inspection Program, or CCIP, which is designed to give more power to wing commanders by allowing them to run their wing's inspection system.

"I think this is what inspections should have always been like; they should align with the commander's priorities and not necessarily be externally imposed," said Lt. Col. Yira Muse, 99th ABW IG. "The idea is you should operate the same way day-to-day as you would during an inspection."

The CCIP involves a continual assessment of four major graded areas: managing resources, leading people, improving the unit and executing the mission, which will allow the wing to focus on mission readiness and improve mission effectiveness rather than inspection readiness.

The 99th ABW IG team is now charged with implementing the CCIP, inspecting units within the wing, and reporting back to the wing commander. However, internal inspections are the foundation of the AFIS, promoting responsibility and accountability within the unit and allowing commanders to control the depth, scope and frequency of inspections.

"Essentially, we want unit commanders to self-identify areas where they cannot meet the mission fully or they feel their unit is not as strong on," said Maj. Jennifer Cowie, 99th ABW IG director of inspections. "They really need to give an honest and accurate self-assessment of what it is they have and if they are able to effectively meet the mission. We understand it's going to be difficult at first and every unit's program is going to be a little different. There's not going to be this off-the-shelf program that works for everybody, because it is very much mission-dependent and a lot of answers aren't out there yet."

The inspection cycle, which is referred to as a Unit Effectiveness Inspection, spans the course of two years.

"We're in a UEI right now, and the inspection has been and will be on-going," Muse said. "Come November 2015, [the ACC IG team] will come for the capstone then the two years will start over again. Consider yourself under inspection all the time."

In order to be successful, Muse said Airmen will need to get over one common misconception.

"It's important for Airmen to understand that red is not 'dead' and we're looking for honest reporting," Muse said. "If you can self-identify deficiencies or areas of non-compliance, that's what we're trying to do. Where we can get in trouble is if there are undetected non-compliance areas. If an external agency came to look at Nellis and found areas of non-compliance that we did not identify ourselves, then that would be a problem."

Overall, Cowie said the wing will ultimately benefit from the new AFIS.

"Once we get through the growing pains and out of that old-system mentality, we can definitely be successful," Cowie said. "Units should be mission-ready at all times and reporting how they maintain mission readiness, not necessarily spending extra man hours gearing up for a one time inspection. Essentially, this new system will hold everyone responsible, which is a good thing."New inspection system taking form at Nellis

Posted 8/14/2014   Updated 8/14/2014 Email story   Print story

    

by Staff Sgt. Siuta B. Ika
99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

8/14/2014 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- The publication of Air Force Instruction 90-201, Air Force Inspection System, brought fundamental changes to the way the base conducts inspections.

Under the new system, units will no longer be spending weeks and months preparing for a one-week inspection from the Air Combat Command Inspector General team, explained Col. Richard Boutwell, 99th Air Base Wing commander.

"In the past, we've spent a lot of resources and manpower in gearing up for an inspection, which is really a 'snap shot' of our climate at that particular moment," Boutwell said. "The new system will allow us to have more inspections throughout the year, so we'll have more of a 'portfolio' of how we're doing, so we can assess how well we're doing more accurately. The analogy was we would go out and paint the grass for the inspection, but now we're going to cultivate that grass and maintain it."

Another important change in the new AFIS is the Commander's Inspection Program, or CCIP, which is designed to give more power to wing commanders by allowing them to run their wing's inspection system.

"I think this is what inspections should have always been like; they should align with the commander's priorities and not necessarily be externally imposed," said Lt. Col. Yira Muse, 99th ABW IG. "The idea is you should operate the same way day-to-day as you would during an inspection."

The CCIP involves a continual assessment of four major graded areas: managing resources, leading people, improving the unit and executing the mission, which will allow the wing to focus on mission readiness and improve mission effectiveness rather than inspection readiness.

The 99th ABW IG team is now charged with implementing the CCIP, inspecting units within the wing, and reporting back to the wing commander. However, internal inspections are the foundation of the AFIS, promoting responsibility and accountability within the unit and allowing commanders to control the depth, scope and frequency of inspections.

"Essentially, we want unit commanders to self-identify areas where they cannot meet the mission fully or they feel their unit is not as strong on," said Maj. Jennifer Cowie, 99th ABW IG director of inspections. "They really need to give an honest and accurate self-assessment of what it is they have and if they are able to effectively meet the mission. We understand it's going to be difficult at first and every unit's program is going to be a little different. There's not going to be this off-the-shelf program that works for everybody, because it is very much mission-dependent and a lot of answers aren't out there yet."

The inspection cycle, which is referred to as a Unit Effectiveness Inspection, spans the course of two years.

"We're in a UEI right now, and the inspection has been and will be on-going," Muse said. "Come November 2015, [the ACC IG team] will come for the capstone then the two years will start over again. Consider yourself under inspection all the time."

In order to be successful, Muse said Airmen will need to get over one common misconception.

"It's important for Airmen to understand that red is not 'dead' and we're looking for honest reporting," Muse said. "If you can self-identify deficiencies or areas of non-compliance, that's what we're trying to do. Where we can get in trouble is if there are undetected non-compliance areas. If an external agency came to look at Nellis and found areas of non-compliance that we did not identify ourselves, then that would be a problem."

Overall, Cowie said the wing will ultimately benefit from the new AFIS.

"Once we get through the growing pains and out of that old-system mentality, we can definitely be successful," Cowie said. "Units should be mission-ready at all times and reporting how they maintain mission readiness, not necessarily spending extra man hours gearing up for a one time inspection. Essentially, this new system will hold everyone responsible, which is a good thing."