115th fighter wing f-16s arrive at kadena - samurai gate€¦ · “th e main emphasis of the uei...

By Airman 1st ClassStephen G. Eigel18th Wing Public Affairs1/20/2015 — Kadena Air Base is sched-uled to have a unit eff ectiveness inspec-tion Jan. 26-30. Th is biennial inspection evaluates readiness, economy, effi ciency and the state of discipline for the 18th Wing. Th e Pacifi c Air Forces Inspector General team, approximately 50 in-spectors, is trying to gauge the 18th Wing Air Force Instruction compliance through four major graded areas and has been evaluating Kadena on manag-ing resources, leading people, improv-ing the unit, and executing the mission during mission focused exercises since January 2014. “Th e main emphasis of the UEI is AFI compliance,” said Lt. Col. Chad Cook, 18th Wing inspector general. “To pre-pare, just do your job and tell your su-pervisors when you can’t by using the self-assessment checklists in MICT.” Th e new evaluation system is com-pletely diff erent than the previous types of inspections such as the operational readiness inspection and unit compli-ance inspection.

“Th e UEI is a whole new process for inspection,” said Cook. “We are not trying to just paint the grass green for two weeks a year and spend countless hours and resources preparing for the inspection.” Th e UEI measures the units actual readiness at any given point over a two year cycle through Management Inter-nal Control Toolset and other wing and unit level inspections and exercises. Due to these eff orts by the local IG and wing, the PACAF IG team typically has 80 percent of the inspection com-plete prior to arrival. “We have been evaluating MICT through thread pulls and task evalua-tions constantly so that when the PA-CAF IG team comes all they have to do is go around and make sure all the data is correct,” said Maj. Daniel Uger, 18th Wing director of wing inspections. Th e key to the UEI is not perfection but to have a plan to fi x the things that are not possible due to manning, budget, or other factors that infl uence day-to-day operations.What to expect On top of checking MICT data, in-spectors will be interviewing roughly 10

percent of the base’s Airmen. “Airmen who participate in the [Air-men to inspector general] sessions will be asked questions about health and welfare, how you do your job, how you live your life and what it’s like to be an Airman in your job, good, bad, or oth-erwise,” Uger said. “Th ey are looking for frank observations of how you do your job, how your leadership is and how the wing is doing. Th ey will either ask you individually or in a group of up to 17 people, and they are trying to get a snapshot of what it’s like here at the 18th Wing.” Uger said the Airmen to inspector general sessions will happen in the be-ginning of the UEI, and the individuals who will take part are in the process of being identifi ed. Th e sessions are sched-uled like a normal appointment and are mandatory if selected. If someone is cho-sen to go they will know ahead of time. Although the UEI will encompass parts of the wings mission, it is not the same as a mission focused exercise. “Th ere will be no activities like the MFE - no gas masks, no sirens going off , no crazy shift hours, it is going to be just like normal ops,” Cook said.

Maj. Joe Schmitt, 18th Wing inspection planner, said that the Airmen at Kadena just need to be a class act as they always are; fi ghting tonight to win tomorrow. “Airmen don’t have to do anything diff erent, the things they need to make sure they do are wearing the uniform correctly, having their hair cut and sa-luting when they are supposed to,” said Schmitt. A smaller team was here in Septem-ber for an on-site visit where they went around to diff erent sections and it will be the same kind of process. Th e inspec-tion will gauge how eff ective Kadena is at performing the mission of providing unmatched combat power, a forward power projection platform and for the common defense of Japan.

115th Fighter Wing F-16sarrive at Kadena

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais)

Kadena UEI begins Jan. 26

An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 115th Fighter Wing at Truax Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., touches down on the fl ightline of Kadena Air Base, Jan. 15. Members of the 115th FW deployed to Kadena in support of a theater security package. TSP deployments provide the Pacifi c Region with forces capable of a variety of operations, including disaster relief, global situational awareness, combating piracy, active defense and power projection.

J A N U A R Y 2 3 , 2 0 152 S A M U R A I G A T E

By Lt. Col. David A. EisenachBiomedical Sciences Corps 1/21/2015 - JOINT BASE SAN A N TON IO - R A N D OL P H , Texas — Th e Air Force recog-nizes the achievements of the men and women who comprise the Biomedical Sciences Corps (BSC) by designating 26 – 30 January, 2015, as BSC Appreci-ation Week. Th is year is note-worthy as it marks the 50th Anniversary of the Biomedical Sciences Corps. Th e BSC’s roots date back to 1917, when the Sanitary Corps was established to combat infectious diseases. Th e Army Medical Administrative Corps followed three years later. In 1949, the Air Force Medical Ser-vice was offi cially established. Th e Air Force Medical Service continued to expand over the next two decades and in 1965, the Biomedical Sciences Corps was born. Over the past 50 years, the BSC continued to expand its range of personnel to

include a wide variety of medi-cally-trained professionals. To date, the BSC’s mission is to enhance Air Force combat capability and eff ectiveness by providing world-class customer service and scientifi c expertise, resulting in peak force perfor-mance, productivity, and quali-ty healthcare to our benefi ciary population. Comprised of 15 primary specialty codes, the BSC is the most diverse corps in the Air Force Medical Service. Capitalizing on their breadth of expertise, the BSC motto is: United in the Mission. With 2,400 offi cers, support-ed by 5,800 enlisted members in parallel career fi elds, BSC mem-bers can be found at 81 loca-tions around the world and also in multiple settings. Th e BSC encompasses physical therapy, optometry, podiatry, physician assistants, audiology, speech pathology, clinical psychology, clinical social work, occupation-al therapy, aerospace and op-erational physiology, dietetics,

bioenvironmental engineers, public health, medical entomol-ogy, pharmacy, biomedical lab-oratory, healthcare facilities ar-chitects/engineers and health & medical physics. In addition to specialty roles within our med-ical treatment facilities, BSC offi cers are embedded within operational units, serve at every level of medical command, and lead on staff s of the MAJCOMs, Forward Operating Agencies, and Headquarters Air Force. Additionally, the Biomedical Sciences Corps is heavily in-vested in research and a host of other vital roles to meet the de-mands of the Air Force mission. Please join the Air Force in celebrating the 50th anniversa-ry of the Biomedical Sciences Corps and recognizing the con-tributions of these outstanding men and women who dedicate their lives to improving health, maximizing performance, and providing trusted medical care to support our most vital re-source, our Airmen.

On a Saturday aft ernoon in late November,I was informed about a political remark that appeared on my Director of Public Aff airs

Twitter feed. A staff member called to ask if I was aware of the re-tweet. At the time, I was on leave, out of the state, tending to my daughter who had had surgery the day before. I was unaware of the retweet and when told of its substance, I arranged for a member of my staff to remove the tweet from the feed. As far as how a tweet was unknowingly re-tweeted from my organizational account, we do not have a defi nitive answer. I realize this response may be

unfulfi lling to some, but it’s the truth. Th at said, as the owner of the account, I accept responsibility for its content. What is clear is we’ve learned several lessons about protecting the security of social media accounts. Granted the lessons aren’t new, but it’s my hope that by highlighting them just one more time, others might avoid similar incidents.- If you assume an organizational/positional

account from a predecessor, change the password. Also, fi nd out who else has/had access and determine if additional administrators are necessary.

- Make sure your password is diffi cult and not predictable.

- If others post on your behalf, consider having them include their initials behind their input.

- Never store passwords on a shared drive.- Always log out and lock your device before

walking away, putting it down, or tossing it in your pocket or purse.

In the end, what I know to be true is that the account belongs to me and I accept responsibility for it. I’ve applied the lessons above to safeguard both my personal and professional accounts and encourage every Airman reading this to do the same.

Published by Eight Co., Ltd. a private fi rm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 18th Wing. The civilian en-terprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services overseas. Contents of Samurai Gate are not necessar-ily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Depart-ment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political af-filiation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. For commercial advertising, inquiry, send Email to [email protected]

Offi cial Kadena Air Base inquiries: [email protected] DSN:634-3813

Lessons learned in protecting social media accountsCommentary by Brig. Gen. Kathleen Cook

Offi ce of the Secretary of the Air Force

By Debbie GildeaAir Force Personnel CenterPublic Affairs1/16/2015 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas — Th e new Air Force Fit-ness Management System - AF-FMS II - is now up and accessi-ble via the Air Force Personnel Center Secure Application, Air Force Personnel Center offi -cials said. AFFMS II enables Airmen to review their fi tness history and records through July 2010. “Th e previous system was taken off line Dec. 31 to en-able systems specialists to transition content to the new system,” said 1st Lt. Nathan Strickland, AFPC Special Pro-grams Branch Chief. AFFMS II improves acces-sibility and fi tness program managers’ ability to man-age fi tness program records. In addition, it features more stringent security controls to protect members’ information from unauthorized changes. “Th is system provides To-tal Force Airmen with a more up-to-date, user-friendly fi t-ness management system that

better supports the overall Air Force Fitness program,” Strick-land said. “System developers worked side-by-side with fi tness program personnel to ensure the system provides users with eff ective and effi cient access.” During the system down-time, base fi tness assessment centers and unit fi tness pro-gram managers maintained hard copies of fi tness score sheets for Airmen who tested while the system was down. “Base fi tness assessment centers will work expeditious-ly to update those Airmen’s test scores,” the lieutenant ex-plained. “Airmen whose records have not been updated within a month should contact their unit fi tness program manager.” To access AFFMS II go to the AFPC secure application and click on AFFMS II or go to the Air Force Portal at https://my.af.mil, select “Life and Fit-ness,” and then select AFFMS II from the drop down menu. For more information about the fi tness management sys-tem and other personnel is-sues, go to myPers at https://mypers.af.mil.

Biomedical Sciences Corps 50th Anniversary

Air Force Fitness Management System II up, accessible

J A N U A R Y 2 3 , 2 0 15 S A M U R A I G A T E 3

By Senior AirmanMaeson L. Elleman18th Wing Public Affairs1/15/2015 — In the middle of a dense jungle on Guadalcanal Island, a farmer made a startling discovery: the wreck-age of a World War II-era U.S. Army Air Forces P-38 Lightning wreckage up-side-down in the swamp. Upon closer inspection by a Joint Pris-oner of War/Missing in Action Account-ing Command team in 2013, the remains of then USAAF Maj. Peyton S. Mathis, Jr., were discovered. It has been 70 years since Mathis paid the ultimate price when engine failure just before landing at Kukum Air Field on the island rolled the aircraft and led it to crash into the swamp. Th ough rescue teams attempted immediate recovery of the former 44th Fighter Squadron com-mander, seven feet of water conceiled the cockpit and prevented access. Th e pilot was determined killed in ac-tion June 5, 1944, and his body remained unrecovered since the war — that is, until JPAC’s Central Identifi cation Laboratory offi cially identifi ed his remains Oct. 16, 2014. Aft er a long journey home, Mathis was fi nally laid to rest with an internment ceremony in Montgomery, Ala., Jan. 3. Lt. Col. Michael Rowe, the current 44th FS commander, said ensuring events like these come to fruition is the U.S.’s con-tinued promise to everyone who has ever served. “I think it’s a phenomenal story,” Rowe said. “We say this, that we never leave someone behind, but we’re probably the only military that I know of that contin-ues to do JPAC and the incredible work

they do to go out and make that a reality. Th e fact that 70 years ago he perished, and we were able to bring him home, is a signifi cant story both for the U.S. mil-itary and for individuals who serve be-cause it’s a reminder that we will always do what we can to bring you home.” But Mathis’ remains weren’t just a package sent from overseas, and there-fore, they weren’t treated as such. Accompanied by a U.S. Army major, the fallen commander arrived at Bir-mingham, Ala., from Hawaii where they were greeted by pristine honor guards-men before beginning the long road home to his fi nal resting place in Mont-gomery. Police led the way; fi re and police de-partments from the towns along the way saluted and paid their own respects from overpasses; Patriot Guard members, who began with about 30 escorts, increased in numbers as the trip progressed to Mont-gomery, where Mathis was buried Jan. 3. Th ough the completion of this Air-man’s fi nal journey spins an incredible tale, what makes the story special lies with the legacy his former squadron car-ries on. For that, Rowe honored that heritage by not only attending the ceremony, but also by presenting the American fl ag to the family. What began with an email out of the blue at the end of 2014, ultimately led to an experience not unheard of for Rowe, but nonetheless unexpected. “It was a total surprise,” he said. “Up until then I had no idea that was going on. I just think there was a lot of pride in the fact that there was a successful

recovery operation and that he was com-ing home, and also a lot of empathy and excitement for the family who waited 70 years. It was something they had hoped for, prayed for, wished for ... and it was fi nally going to happen. His wife, his widow, was still around, alive and able to know the outcome.” Th ough his widow was unable to make it to the ceremony due to age and travel concerns, Rowe then spent more than two hours getting to know each of Mathis’ family members in attendance. Along with the fl ag, Rowe presented a piece of the Vampire Bats - a lithograph depicting an F-15 Eagle in combat along-side a P-38, overlooked by a vampire bat - as a symbol that his legacy lived on with-in the squadron even aft er his passing. Th e picture, which is given as a go-ing-away gift to all 44th FS members who leave the unit, was signed by every pilot who currently calls themselves a Vampire Bat in honor of his heritage and legacy. “It was an awesome opportunity as the current squadron commander to be able to pay my personal respects and the respects of the squadron to one of our own,” Rowe said. “It was extremely hum-bling that I was able to participate in the service. It made me proud to be a Vam-pire Bat. It was very, very satisfying for me to have that opportunity.” Th e 44th’s heritage extends beyond the Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor, where two of its pilots lost their lives bravely defend-ing the island. Mathis’ nephew, Peyton, has com-missioned an oil painting of the P-38 circling the air fi eld at Guadalcanal as a fi nal tribute. Th e painting, will go on to

commemorate his service in the halls of the squadron. Mathis will go on unforgotten, as the current unit’s members honor their his-tory every week, including him along with the others who lost their lives in service of the U.S. under the 44th. “He will defi nitely not be forgotten in the Vampire Bats,” Rowe said.

44th FS commander accompanies predecessor on final journey

^ (Then U.S. Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. Peyton S. Mathis, Jr.) U.S. Army Air Forces Maj. Payton S. Mathis, Jr., was determined killed in action June 5, 1944, after engine failure on his P-38 Lightning just before landing at Kukum Air Field on Guadalcanal Island rolled the aircraft and led it to crash into a swamp nearby. Though rescue teams attempted immediate recovery of the former 44th Fighter Squadron commander, seven feet of water concealed the cockpit and prevented access. Due to the crash location, his body remained unrecovered for 70 years until JPAC’s Central Identifi cation Laboratory offi cially identifi ed his remains Oct. 16, 2014.

(Courtesy photo)


By Airman 1st ClassJohn Linzmeier18th Wing Public Affairs1/16/2015 — Th e year was 1945 and war was waging in the Pacifi c. More than 20,000 Japanese soldiers in-habited a small volcanic island about 750 miles south of mainland Japan, known as Iwo Jima. Its strategic location and two airfi elds was an invaluable asset needed by the Allied forces to help end World War II. Under American control, Iwo Jima’s airfi elds would be used as an emergency landing base for a B-29 Superfortress, the United States’ premier bomber that ulti-mately ended the war by delivering the atomic bomb. Japanese Gen. Tadamichi Kuribayashi, the island’s commanding offi cer, under-stood the importance of the island and was determined to make the Americans pay a high price for it, said Stephen Ove, 18th Wing historian. Kuribayashi studied the reports of previous U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assaults, allowing him to in-fl ict massive damage toward attackers. Th e island was previously used as a sulfur mine. Kuribayashi’s troops ex-panded the existing mining tunnels to become an underground network that developed into more than seven miles of interconnected passageways. “When a Japanese defender can no longer hold one portion of the island, he can always just boogey on back to anoth-er cave on another part of the island to help other Japanese sailors and soldiers,”

said U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Johnson, 18th Operations Group commander and tour guide for professional military edu-cation tours to Iwo To. On Feb. 19, 1945, the largest amphibi-ous assault in U.S. Marine Corps history began on the southern coast of Iwo Jima. Th ree days prior to the attack, naval ships had launched continuous barrage on the island while the Japanese soldiers sought shelter in their caves. Th ere were very little signs of re-sistance from the concealed Japanese troops, who did not even have a front line defense in place. Th e fi rst wave of Marines safely land-ed on Iwo Jima’s volcanic coastline. Th ey were left with the impression that their enemy was largely eliminated from the three-day naval attack. With 450 Ameri-can ships at bay and both sides at a cease-fi re, this may have been one of the only quiet moments experienced in a battle that would last 36 days, said Ove. As thousands of Marines clustered to-gether along the black-sanded shoreline, Kuribayashi’s men hid throughout 1,500 cleverly hidden pill boxes and cave exits, armed with machine guns, snipers and artillery aimed at the masses. About an hour aft er the Marines landed, their patrols discovered a line of defensive bunkers and the fi rst shots were fi red, followed by a storm of bom-bardment toward the crowds of Marines. Heavy artillery was fi red from defensive positions along Mount Suribachi, about two miles to the south.

“Th ey wanted to infl ict as much casu-alties as they possibly can so the Ameri-cans would probably think twice or three times about actually invading the home islands,” said Johnson. “And they were extremely eff ective at doing that.” Th e island’s unusual terrain caused further diffi culties for the Marines. Its fi ne-grained volcanic ash made it diffi -cult for them to secure their footing and was almost impossible to build a foxhole out of. “As the battle rages, you’ve got three Marine divisions, which at the time was unprecedented for one invasion,” said Johnson, “with the 5th Marine Division taking the west, the third taking the cen-ter and the fourth on the far right.” Th e U.S. attackers fell very short of their day one objective - to take control of half the island said Johnson. Th e ca-sualty count had already exceeded 2,000, still, the Marines had their opponents outnumbered and outgunned. Many platoons had a fl amethrower operator as-signed; an eff ective means to clear out pill boxes and caves but a highly visible target. Four days into the battle, the Ameri-can fl ag was raised on top Mount Suri-bachi, a viewpoint that overlooks the entire island. When the initial fl ag was replaced for safekeeping, the iconic pho-tograph “Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima,” was snapped by Joe Rosenthal. Fighting went on for about a month longer. Karibiyashi’s conservative tac-tics such as not defending the coastline, falling back and attacking through the

tunnel network, and refusal to execute bonsai charges was an eff ective strategy at deterring attackers, but eventually his numbers and supplies would run out. “Th e Japanese General in charge, Karibiyashi and all his men never thought that they would leave that island,” said Johnson. “Th ey knew it was going to be their grave.” Japanese troops had very little food and water to begin with. Th ousands took ref-uge in the endless network over tunnels; some individuals would remain hidden in the caves for years aft er the war ended. In the end, more than 6,800 Americans were killed and approximately 18,000 others suff ered casualties. Th e Capture of Iwo Jima came at a grave cost, but was a key stepping stone toward ending the war, achieved on Sept., 2, 1945. Following the capture of Iwo Jima, a total of 2,251 B-29 emergency landings on the island were recorded during the war, saving the lives of thousands of air-crew returning from mainland Japan. It’s been nearly 70 years since the battle took place on the island, now named Iwo To. Much of the island is now a memorial site, occasionally visited by service mem-bers for professional military education tours. “Th e Japanese Marine Self Defense Force graciously allows U.S. military members to visit their island,” said Ove. “By visiting we enhance our awareness of the battle. You can’t help but feel solemn, deep respect in the presence of such her-oism as was displayed on Iwo Jima.”

Battle of Iwo Jima approaches 70

(U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier)

^Airmen from Kadena Air Base, gather around a World War II memorial on Iwo To, Jan. 8. They visited the island for a day to see the battleground, once known as Iwo Jima, of the largest assault in U.S. Marine Corps history. More than 6,800 Marines died over a period of 36 days.

Airmen from Kadena Air Base, hike toward Mount Suribachi on Iwo To, Jan. 8. They visited Iwo To as part of a professional military education outing to learn about the battle of Iwo Jima that took place nearly 70 years ago.

^


By Morgan Powers1/20/2015 — Stearley Heights has many clubs, but one of my favorites and one of the most important is the Safety Club which helps the S.H.E.S. families safely get through traffi c. I had the opportu-nity to interview students as they par-ticipated in this club. It was nice being there asking questions about what they do every day aft er school and I got some brilliant answers. Th e main focus of Safety Club is helping everyone and do-ing their part to create a good environ-ment for the students and teachers. Th is year Safety Club and Flag Club were combined to form one club. While there are diff erent jobs, which include safety patrol, fl ag patrol and team lead-er, none of them are easy. You must be responsible if you want to join. Flag pa-trol must put the fl ag up every day be-fore anyone comes to school, and then take it down once everyone is gone. Th e team leader is in charge of placement, positions, and jobs. Th ere is a backup team leader which is in charge when the team leader is unavailable. What does everyone think about Safety Club? I got some great answers, but a couple of comments really stood out. “Safety Club is fun, and it always feels nice to help people be safe,” said S.H.E.S. student Carolina Bris-Bois. Club member Dixie Tyler explained the most important rule, “Th ere is only one rule for taking the fl ag down, you can never, ever let the fl ag touch the ground.” Mr. Fred Sieber, fourth grade teach-er, retired marine, and head of the club,

thinks that responsibility is one of the most important traits of being a mem-ber. I asked him why he sponsored the club. He replied that he did the club for two reasons, the fi rst being that he wanted students to get to school safe, and second being to make sure the fl ag comes up and down every day. I also asked him what important skills he thought the students learn to which he replied, “Th ey learn responsibility and timing, because if someone is late, it’s on

you and everyone has to wait for you.” As children of military families, stu-dents are no stranger to community ser-vice and the feelings that one gets from helping others. Mr. Sieber loves the club and so do all of the students. “Safety Club makes me feel good on the inside,” says S.H.E.S. student Cole Th omas. Th is club has some of the most important student jobs at Stearley Heights and I agree with Mr. Sieber, with great power comes great responsibility.

Stearley Heights Safety Club

Airman of the Year Staff Sgt. Travis Jordan,320th Special Tactics Squadron

Noncommissioned Offi cerof the Year Tech. Sgt. Tijuana Perry, 320th Special Tactics Squadron

Senior Noncommissioned Offi cerof the Year Master Sgt. Davis Custer,353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron

First Sergeant of the Year Master Sgt. Sandie Hedge,353rd Special Operations Support Squadron

Company Grade Offi cer of the Year Capt. Michael Erickson,320th Special Tactics Squadron

Civilian of the Year, Category IJoyce Tayaban,353rd Special Operations Support Squadron

By Tech. Sgt.Kristine Dreyer353rd Special Operations GroupPublic Affairs1/19/2015 — Offi cials from the 353rd Special Operations Group announced the group’s top Airmen during its 2014 Annual Awards Luncheon here Jan 12.Th e individual award winners are:

353rd SOG honor 2014

annual award winners

^Crossing guard, Amelia Santos helps SHES students Addie and Korina cross safely. (Photo by Morgan Powers)


By Senior AirmanThomas Spangler99th Air Base Wing/Public Affairs1/16/2015 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. — Aft er more than a decade of war in Afghanistan and Iraq, many troops, unfortunately, sustained traumatic injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to injuries from explosions. Th ose who were injured in these wars had a 96 percent survival rate because of the hard-earned skills medical pro-fessionals learned on the battle-fi eld. Th e new Sustained Medi-cal and Readiness Training, or SMART, program piloted by the 99th Medical Group at Nellis Air Force Base is designed to ensure medics from across the service maintain those skills, and are ready for the next con-fl ict, by partnering with the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada Level I trau-ma center. “We have to be just as ready at the beginning of the next war as we have been at the end of this one,” said Lt. Gen. Th omas Travis, U.S. Air Force surgeon general, during his visit Jan. 13 to UMC. Maintaining a high survival rate is only accomplished be-cause these health care provid-ers were constantly improving and honing their skills treating battlefi eld trauma injuries. “A lot of the advances that are occurring in medicine are be-cause of the care that has been provided down range, we want to keep that edge, we don’t want to lose it,” said Maj. Gen. Doro-thy Hogg, U.S. Air Force direc-tor of medical operations and research, referring to the end of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. With the end of these wars, there will fortunately be fewer

battlefi eld casualties. However, this means that those military physicians, nurses and techni-cians who strengthened their skills down range will no longer have the same opportunities to maintain that edge. When the physicians, nurs-es and technicians are not de-ployed they are serving in mil-itary treatment facilities. Th e military bases that these MTFs serve do not usually have pa-tients with gunshot wounds or other injuries similar to those sustained in battle. “You see things in war that we don’t always see in this coun-try, certainly not on our bases and at our military treatment facilities,” Travis said. “We have a population that, for the most part, is very healthy. We don’t have a lot of trauma, certainly not a lot of gunshots or knife wounds.” Health care providers, just like any other job in the Air Force, needs to constantly refi ne and maintain their abilities so they are ready for use in future real-world confl icts. With the lack of traumatic injuries at MTFs for Air Force health care providers to treat and maintain their edge, the question becomes: with no bat-tlefi eld injuries to treat, how do they maintain that edge? “Th e MTF commander is re-sponsible for making sure that the individuals in his or her fa-cility are current and ready to go to war,” Hogg said, who is also the Air Force chief of the nurses corps. If an MTF is unable to pro-vide the environment necessary for its physicians, nurses and technicians to stay current on their qualifi cations, and a local civilian hospital is unable or unwilling to provide that en-vironment, then its healthcare

providers would be temporarily assigned to attend the SMART program at Nellis AFB. Th e SMART program has allowed Air Force physicians, nurses and technicians sta-tioned at Nellis AFB, and now from across the Air Force, to temporarily work and train at UMC of Southern Nevada to ensure they stay current and maintain the high level of treat-ment they attained while de-ployed. Th ey are able to maintain their edge because they are treating injuries at a Level I trauma center where they will encounter injuries similar to those found on the battlefi eld, like knife and gunshot wounds. Th ey would not likely encoun-ter such traumatic injuries at the Nellis AFB medical center.

“Some trauma centers by virtue of their location and the population they serve see more penetrating trauma, they see a knife wound, a gunshot wound, something you don’t wish on anybody,” Travis said. “But for wartime readiness training, it’s actually very good for our skills to be involved in the care of those types of patients, because you do see some of that down range.” Th is partnership will allow physicians, nurses and techni-cians from the across the Air Force, not just Nellis AFB, the opportunity to come to UMC of Southern Nevada and maintain their edge and be ready for the next confl ict — with the same level of skills or better than they were at the end of the last con-fl ict.

“[Th e partnership between the 99th Medical Group and UMC of Southern Nevada] is an opportunity to use the expertise available in our civilian partners downtown, to use what the Air Force Medical Service has given us and continue to seek ways to hone our skills and currency,” said Col. Guillermo Tellez, 99th MDG commander. “Programs such as SMART will ensure we are prepared for the next con-tingency if the Department of Defense calls — we must remain ready at a moment’s notice. “By partnering with the UMC of Southern Nevada, the Air Force is able to better pre-pare its physicians, nurses and technicians for future confl icts and help ensure future wound-ed service members come home alive.” Tellez said.

By Airman 1st ClassKyle Johnson673rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs1/18/2015 - JOINT BASE ELMEN-DORF-RICHARDSON — Accord-ing to offi cials from the Department of Defense’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, rising reports of sexual assault is not only a good in-dication of a cultural shift in the force structure, but also on the utilization of SAPR resources. People who experience sexual assault are proving to be more likely to report it, which allows commanders to weed out the perpetrators, and in turn, create a safer environment for everyone. However, according to Col. Brian Bruckbauer, the 673rd Air Base Wing commander, one sexual assault is too many. “We are resolved to inspire a change

in behavior and are striving to shape an audience that is receptive and re-sponsive rather than discouraged and potentially apathetic,” Bruckbauer said. With this in mind, Joint Base Elmen-dorf-Richardson commanders have assembled a team of volunteers to pro-vide fi rst-hand insight into the current SAPR training and what they think can be done diff erently to create results. Originally designed as a short-term feedback session, the Joint Base Elmen-dorf-Richardson SAPR Task Force, or JSTF, was formed to provide new infor-mation on preventing sexual assaults to senior leadership where volunteers off er a unique perspective on sexual as-sault prevention. “We are trying to establish commu-nication, instead of one-way direction,” said Darmaly Williams, the 673rd ABW SAPR program manager. “It’s important

to us that the community understands we are open to listen; we want them to speak up, to let us know how they feel, and to let us know what they need. We are trying to change a culture, so we need all the help we can get.” Th e JSTF is composed entirely of Airmen within the target population that experiences the most sexual assaults. Statistics from the SAPR pro-gram indicate 61 percent of sexual as-sault completed investigations happen to persons under the age of 25, and 19 percent do not have an age document-ed. Th is means a potential of 80 percent of completed investigations could be in that demographic. With that in mind, JSTF Airmen are tasked to give the command staff a peek inside the mind of younger service members. Th ey consider within their corresponding demographic purviews

whether Airmen in their age group take SAPR briefi ngs seriously, the context in which sexual assaults normally occur, and why some victims decline to re-port. By consulting with the JSTF, senior leadership get an idea about the needs of their Airmen and begin to tailor SAPR training specifi cally for them, Williams added.”Th ey don’t just want to see change; they want to be part of the change,” Williams said. “It’s inspiring.” According to Bruckbauer, the JSTF will meet directly with commanders and senior enlisted advisors on a quar-terly basis. “During these meetings, JSTF mem-bers provide feedback on current initia-tives, report concerns they experience or that have been brought to their at-tention and off er solutions they feel will best resonate with our Airmen,” he said.

SAPR: Creating a culture shift

SMART program keeps medical Airmen mission ready for future confl icts

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas Spangler)

^Brig. Gen. Sean Murphy (far left), Air Combat Command command surgeon, Lt. Gen. Thomas Travis (center), U.S. Air Force surgeon general and Maj. Gen. Dorothy Hogg (far right), U.S. Air Force director of medical operations and research and chief of the nurse corps, listen to an overview of the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada emergency room during a tour of the hospital in Las Vegas, Nev., Jan. 13. Travis, Hogg and Murphy were visiting UMC to learn about the benefi ts of the Sustained Medical and Readiness Trained, or SMART, program. The program is designed to give physicians, nurses and medical technicians the opportunity that they would not receive in a Military Treatment Facility to refi ne their skills.


By Rick RzepkaU.S. Army Garrison Public Affairs1/14/2015 - TORII STATION — Army leaders and civilians gathered Jan. 9 to bid farewell to Command Sgt. Maj. Antez Gilbert, Senior Enlisted Advisor, U.S. Army Garrison – Okinawa and his Family. Gilbert, known for his calm demean-or and wry sense of humor, served at USAG – Okinawa for more than a year and will go on to lead Soldiers as the command sergeant major for the largest American hospital outside of the Unit-ed States at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. “I consider myself fortunate to have had Command Sgt. Maj. Gilbert as my battle buddy during most of my com-mand tour here on Okinawa,” said Lt. Col. Eric Martinez, USAG – Okinawa

commander. “His service has been exceptional by all accounts. His commit-ment to Soldiers, Families and civilians is second to none.” As only the second command sergeant major of U.S. Army Garrison – Okinawa, Gilbert has seen the garrison evolve and fl ourish. “He saw many opportunities for improvement and tackled as many as he could,” said Martinez. From advising the commander to spearheading the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program to ensuring Soldiers and Families here thrive in their day-to-day lives, Gilbert accepted the challenge of helping lead a garrison for-mation made up primarily of civilians. “Th ere’s been a tremendous improve-ment in the garrison footprint and the garrison presence here,” said Col. Joy

L. Curriera, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison – Japan. “I want all of you here to understand how important it is, that while you do your mission, the garrison has to keep the foothold on all base op-erations, and keep all of those facilities and programs running for you,” she said. “Your diligence and passion for what you do, to bring the very best to your organization and all of those around you, is greatly appreciated.” Gilbert, along with the garrison, also recognized the contributions of his Family to the mission on Okinawa, real-izing that while the strength of the Army is Soldiers, the strength of Soldiers is Families. As he presented his wife and daughter bouquets of fl owers, Gilbert noted the sacrifi ces that military Families make on behalf of their loved ones.

“Th ese are coming from me, but they are also on behalf of all of these folks out here for everything you’ve done to sup-port the community and put up with me all of these years,” he said with a smile. “Th at’s no easy task …” As Gilbert thanked those in the audience that impacted his service on Okinawa, he noted that a constant in his leadership style is to treat people with dignity, fairness and respect. “Th at’s important to me and as a result of that, I believe we made this a more professional organization … that’s what this is really about.” he said. “While Landstuhl CSM is my ideal next assignment, I have to say that this assignment here has been the best assignment of my career. U.S. Army Garrison – Okinawa … small but powerful. Th at’s my mantra.”

Torii station’s second Command Sergeant Major bids farewell

(U.S. Army photos by Rick Rzepka)

^Command Sgt. Maj. Antez Gilbert, U.S. Army Garrison - Okinawa, receives the Meritorious Service Medal from Col. Joy L. Curriera, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison - Japan. “Your diligence and passion for what you do, to bring the very best to your organization and all of those around you, is greatly appreciated,” said Curriera.

Command Sgt. Maj. Antez Gilbert, U.S. Army Garrison - Okinawa, cuts cake during his farewell luncheon Jan. 9 at Torii Station.

^Command Sgt. Maj. Antez Gilbert, U.S. Army Garrison - Okinawa, receives a token of appreciation from Sgt. Maj. Keith Edwards, 835th Transportation Battalion Jan. 9 at Torii Station.

^


By Mass Communication Specialist 1st ClassBrannon Deugan7th Fleet Public Affairs1/16/2015 - YOKOSUKA, Japan — In 2014, U.S. 7th Fleet ships, squadrons, operational units and senior leaders pro-moted regional stability and maritime security through more than 1,000 theater security cooperation engagements. Engagements included major opera-tional events, such as 160 bilateral and multilateral exercises, as well as 370 port visits and more than 500 senior leader exchanges, construction projects, mili-tary–to-military training and education seminars and community relations events. “Professional engagement with our allies, partners and friends in the region provides us with the opportunity to build upon our existing, strong relationships, as well as learn from each other,” said Capt. Ronald Oswald, 7th Fleet Th eater Security Cooperation coordinator. Exercises provide a vital military-to-mil-itary exchange that increase capabilities and foster relationships throughout the region. Major exercises in 2014 included Keen Sword, Key Resolve, Ulchi Freedom Guardian, Malabar, Valiant Shield, and the Cooperation Afl oat Readiness and Train-ing (CARAT) series. Th ese exercises are designed to address common maritime security priorities and concerns, enhance interoperability and communication, and develop relationships that will benefi t our forces for many years to come. Exercises ranged from advanced, high-end opera-tions in anti-surface, submarine and air warfare with our closest allies to basic seamanship and navigational training with up-and-coming Navies. Keen Sword 15 is an example of one of the 160 bilateral and multilateral exer-cises conducted by 7th Fleet units. Keen Sword was the latest in a series of joint/bilateral fi eld training exercises involving U.S. military and Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) units, including 11,000 U.S. military personnel, who trained in all major warfare areas. “Keen Sword is designed to allow the U.S. and Japan to practice and coordinate our procedures together and interopera-bility in all warfare disciplines,” said Rear Adm. John D. Alexander, commander, Battle Force 7th Fleet. One of the highlights for this year’s exercise was JMSDF Escort Force 2 train-ing as the sea combatant commander by coordinating the scheme of maneuver for

the strike group surface combatants. “It was a closely coordinated plan on how the ships maneuvered around the battle space to prosecute opposing forces as well as defend the battle force. It was key that we were able to work together in a command and control capacity such as this and employ our tactics, techniques and procedures together,” said Alexander. “We are fortunate that they are capable and have the capacity to operate along-side us,” he continued. “Th e fact that we are able to conduct operations as allies and partners goes to the heart of the training that we do together. We need to continue to focus on our relationship both at sea and in port.” Th e establishment of Task Force 75 (CTF 75) this year marked a signifi cant addition to 7th Fleet theater security co-operation by streamlining the command and control of Navy Expeditionary Forces to better support missions in the In-do-Asia-Pacifi c region. CTF 75 completed 28 exercises in 18 countries, along with 27 regional construction projects. Signifi -cant examples of CTF 75’s construction projects include building three maternity wards in Cambodia; multiple classroom buildings, a science room, and a hospital outpatient building in the Philippines; an emergency room in Timor-Leste; and a classroom, medical facility and two so-lar-powered water pumps in West Timor.

“We completely integrated their eff orts into the larger 7th Fleet combat readiness scheme, our theater security cooperation eff orts and crisis responses,” said Vice Adm. Robert Th omas, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. “Th ey provide us great access and really move our strategic intent for-ward. For example, the Seabee’s human-itarian assistance projects in the region are truly benefi cial for fostering stronger relationships with partner and allied nations in the region,” said Th omas. Of 7th Fleet’s 370 port visits, the U.S. 7th Fleet fl agship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) highlighted this year’s port visit schedule in early August with an engage-ment in Qingdao, China, the fi rst fl agship visit to China in more than fi ve years. “Th e port visit provided a great op-portunity for the Blue Ridge crew and 7th Fleet Staff to continue an enduring, positive navy-to-navy relationship with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA(N)) North Sea Fleet,” said Oswald. “Th e chance to conduct military engage-ment and exchanges with the PLA(N) was furthered for the 7th Fleet and the Chinese North Sea Fleet.” Beyond exercises and port visits, the U.S. 7th Fleet conducted more than 500 theater security cooperation engagements that covered a wide-range of events from military-to-military engagements to community relations events. Th e

engagements included approximately:• 125 professional and information

exchanges such as staff talks, conferences, training seminars, media embarks, and ship and aircraft tours.

• More than 250 fl ag offi cer and senior leadership military-to-military exchanges.

• Medical engagements such as seminars and training opportunities with India, Th ailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia and South Korea.

• 184 performances by the U.S. 7th Fleet Band in 10 countries for more than 161 thousand people and media broadcasts to more than 18 million.

“2014 was a successful year for theater security cooperation events,” said Th om-as. “Each engagement is important in solidifying the foundation of the region’s stability and security. Th e foundation is developed over time through continued eff orts to strengthen relationships be-tween countries, and the U.S. 7th Fleet stands ready to provide maritime support to the nations in the Indo-Asia-Pacifi c in their times of need, during events such as natural disasters.” “Maritime security challenges in this region are real,” he continued. “No one nation can address these challenges alone which is why theater security cooperation engagements are critical to promoting regional stability.”

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alonzo M. Archer)

The Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), left, steams in formation with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kongou-class guided-missile destroyer JS Kirishima (DDG 174), during exercise Keen Sword 15. Keen Sword is a joint/bilateral fi eld training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF), designed to increase combat readiness and interoperability of U.S. forces and the JSDF.

7th Fleet promotes maritime security with 1,000 professional, military and leadership engagements in 2014


Risner Fitness Center KarateRyukyu-kan karate, a form of Sh rin-ry , is now available at the Risner Fitness center on Mondays and Fridays from 7-8:30 p.m. This is a great way to get into peak physical fi tness. Sessions cover basic punches, kicks and attacks, kata (simulated fi ghts and exercises), training for fi ghting to include pad kicking/punch and sparring between members. Sparring is balanced and usually involves equally skilled individuals, or a black belt providing training for new members. For more information, visit the Risner Fitness Center front desk or http://www.ryukyukan.org/. Travelers HealthIf you are planning a trip that includes a visit to another country or countries, you are encouraged to visit the Kadena Public Health offi ce 60 days prior to scheduled departure for the latest region-specifi c threat assessment. You’ll gain information regarding what immunizations or medications you will need, in addition to other medical travel tips for your off-island excursions. The Kadena Public Health offi ce is located on the third fl oor of the Kadena Medical Group building. Walk-in travel clinic briefi ngs are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For questions or concerns, call Public Health at 630-1998. Kadena and Camp Foster emergency numbersKadena Fire Emergency Services would like to remind everyone to program their cell phones with the emergency numbers. To report an emergency on Kadena via cell, dial 098-934-5911, and from an offi ce phone, dial 911. For Camp Foster via cell, dial 098-911-1911, or from an offi ce phone, dial 911. Civilian Personnel Office job trainingThe Civilian Personnel Offi ce will host a USA Jobs training class from 9:30-10:30 a.m. every fi rst and third Tuesday of the month at

Bldg. 721-A in the Bruce Scott Training Room. This training covers the basics on creating an account and signing in, searching for a job, applying for a federal job through USAJobs, understanding different requirements, and explaining the different eligibilities available for applying in an overseas or stateside location. For more information or to sign up, call 634-2228 or email kadena.staffi [email protected] and include a contact number. Calling all Air Force female officersThe Kadena Chapter of the Air Force Women Offi cers Associated is looking for female offi cers of all ranks to join the local chapter. AFWOA’s purpose is to foster camaraderie, maintain ties between active and retired women offi cers, preserve history and promote recognition of the role of military women, and lend support to women engaged in education and training programs. Their goal is to create a network of female offi cers, fellowship, and give back to the base and community. For more information or to become a member, call Maj. Brooke van Eeghen at 630-4598 or email [email protected] or Capt. Felecia Washington at [email protected]. FCC new provider orientationThe Kadena Family Child Care Program is offering orientation classes to license individuals to care for Department of Defense/Military dependants in their homes. Programs include, but are not limited to, regular full day and hourly care, extended duty care, weekend care, subsidy program, returning home care, and special needs care. For more information, call Mary Bogar at 634-0514 or stop by Bldg. 1850 to pick up an application. 18th MXG AFREPThe 18th Maintenance Group Air Force Repair Enhancement Program can fi x almost anything, from aircraft parts down to

extension cables. For more information, call the 18th MXG AFREP at 634-5337 or 632-6082, or email [email protected]. 18th MDG Education & Training Office hoursThe 18th Medical Group Education & Training offi ce hours have changed, to include appointments.　Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday-Friday 3-4:15 p.m., Monday-Friday (Appointments Only) To book an appointment, call 630-1994 or email [email protected]. Flight medicine sick call hoursFlight medicine’s morning sick call hours have changed to Monday-Friday from 7-8 a.m. Afternoon sick call hours will remain Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1-2 p.m. Sick call is intended for active duty patients assigned to Flight Medicine with acute medical issues or fl yers needing to “Return to Fly Status.” For more information, call Flight Medicine at 630-4229. Air Force AssociationKeystone ChapterCome be a part of the newest AFA Chapter, the Keystone Chapter! All members/non-members and all ranks and civilians are welcome to come and learn more about the AFA mission and how you can be a part of it. Meetings are the last Wednesday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Bldg. 938. For more information, email Tech. Sgt. Christopher Byrne at [email protected]. School Zone traffic violationsAs a reminder, the speed limit in all school zones during school hours is 25 KPH. Speeding in these posted zones can have dangerous consequences and drivers caught speeding will be ticketed. Please park in authorized places only. Parking and leaving your vehicle unattended in the pick-up/drop-

off zone is prohibited and will be ticketed. Parking in reserve housing spots will also be ticketed. Drivers caught making illegal U-turns will be ticketed. For more information, call Kadena Police Services at 634-1397. AFOSI Foreign Travel BriefingA foreign travel briefi ng will be held at 9 a.m. during the fi rst duty day of every week at Bldg. 705. Members planning personal foreign travel must report to the AFOSI lobby prior to the briefi ng and are reccomended to attend the briefi ng several weeks prior but no more than two months prior to the travel date. If you are unable to make the meeting due to mission requirements, call AFOSI to schedule an alternate time at 632-8996. Partial Road ClosureThere will be a partial road closure for installing drainage, sidewalk, and pavement on Collison Drive between the Fairchild Avenue intersection to Bldg. 865 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. until March 31. One lane will be opened for alternate two-way traffi c fl ow controlled by the fl aggers. For more information, call Eishin Hiyajo at 634-4285. Leaders Encouraging Airman Development (LEAD) Commissioning OpportunityIt is that time of year for outstanding Airmen to apply to the United States Air Force Academy and Preparatory School. Interested Airmen must be academically qualifi ed, of high moral character, possess exceptional leadership potential, and meet all USAFA entry requirements. For more information and to apply online, visit the Academy Admissions website at www.academyadmissions.com. WIC Overseas Okinawajob opportunityThe Women, Infants and Children Overseas program on Kadena has an open position for an administrative assistant. Applicants

To submit an announcement for the base bulletin, please visit www.kadena.af.mil NO FEDERAL ENDORSEMENT OF PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS OR ACTIVITIES IS INTENDED.

J A N U A R Y 2 3 , 2 0 15 S A M U R A I G A T E 11are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent with secretarial or business offi ce experience or education. Business training or Associate’s degree preferred. Experience in health-related fi eld desirable. Must type 40 to 60 words per minute. Job requirements include good computer skills and excellent customer service skills. Must be a U.S. citizen. Please email your resume and cover letter to Michelle Viramontes at [email protected] or fax to 632-6262. Pass and ID New HoursPass and ID’s new hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pass and Registration will be closed at noon for training every last Thursday of each month. The Visitor Control Center hours at Gate 1 (local side) and Gate 2 will stay the same. For more information, call Master Sgt. Andrew Hallead at 634-1033 or email [email protected]. Group CycleRisner Fitness Center is conducting a Group Cycle every Tuesday and Thursday at 4:45 p.m. Come early and grab a bike in our state-of-the-art spin room. This class is led by volunteers, not Risner-contracted staff so cancellations may occur. For more information, call Risner Fitness Center front desk at 634-5128. Pentagon Federal Credit Union new hours of operationPentagon Federal Credit Union’s new hours of operation as of Jan. 12. Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed on Saturday-Sunday. For more information, call Arthur Reutov at 966-7496. Furnishing ManagementOffice closureThe Furnishing Management Offi ce, FMO self-help, and FMO customer service will be closed Jan. 29 and 30 for annual inventory. For emergency assistance, contact at 634-4663.

Airman and Family Readiness Center closureThe Kadena Airman and Family Readiness Center will be closed from noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 30 for staff training. For emergency assistance, contact the Command Post at 634-1800. Tuition Assistance initial/follow-up briefThe Education Center will hold Tuition Assistance initial and follow-up briefs from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Education Center beginning Jan. 27. For more information, call Sabrina Murray at 634-1500, option 1. UPCOMING EVENTSGreen Card/Immigrant Visa BriefingThe Airman and Family Readiness Center will hold a briefi ng regarding green cards and immigrant visas from 10 a.m till noon Feb. 6 at the AFRC. Representatives from the U.S. Consulate-General will be present to answer questions about citizenship and immigration. For more information, call Nanako Misato at 634-3366. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESVolunteers needed forOkinawa MarathonMore than 200 volunteers are needed to provide water or cheer on runners at stations along a base route on Kadena during the 2015 Okinawa Marathon Feb. 15. Those interested are encouraged to attend a meeting Feb. 9 at 3 p.m. in the Schilling Ball Room (Bldg 455). If you are going to volunteer as group, you can send one representative to the meeting. For more information, email [email protected] or call at 634-5696. Amelia Earhart Intermediate School Homework ClubThe Amelia Earhart Intermediate School is looking for volunteers to help with the Homework Club, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3-4 p.m. The Amelia Earhart Intermediate School is looking for volunteers to assist, teach, and/or supervise students

during recess activities from 11:15 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, email Airman 1st Class David Homan at [email protected], Senior Airman Greene Kyle at [email protected], or Virginia Turner [email protected]. Kadena STEM Outreach is looking for volunteersKadena’s fi rst STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Outreach Program is looking for volunteers as a Social Media/Marketing Manager, Community Coordinator, Administration Manager, Event Coordinator or STEM tutor/researcher. The Kadena Air Base STEM Outreach is an Air Force Research Laboratory sponsored program that is designed to increase STEM knowledge for Team Kadena’s military, civilians, dependents and DoDDS students. The program is open to all ranks and is accepting volunteers now. A STEM degree is not required. For more information, call Capt. Josh Barker at 632-0429 or email [email protected]. Kadena High School needs National History Day JudgesKadena High School is looking for volunteer judges for the National History Day Contest Feb 4-6. For more information, contact Bernd Lembcke at [email protected]. Okinawa STEM OutreachVolunteer OpportunitiesOkinawa STEM Outreach is looking for new members and volunteers to assist with an upcoming LEGO Robotics competition on Camp Foster. OSO is seeking new mem-bers with computer networking, computer programming, medical, or aeronautical en-gineering experience. For more information, visit www.okinawastem.org. or email Capt. Josh Barker at [email protected]. or call 632-0429. LEGO Team MentorsNeed volunteers with Technical Knowledge/Experience to meet with Kadena School LEGO Robotics Teams. Team meetings

are held at Kadena Elementary from 3-4 p.m. Jan. 14, 21, and 28, Feb. 4, 11, and 18 (every Wednesday from Jan. 14 until the competition). Team Mentors will answer questions and coach the Teams through the problem solving process. For more information, email Capt. Benjamin Switzer at [email protected]. Operation Snowball needsadult volunteersOperation Snowball is an in-school retreat focused on leadership development delivered in a fun and interactive format. Groups of teenagers are paired with adult facilitators for small group discussions and activities related to decision making, social skills and community building. They are looking for adult volunteers who can attend a two-day staff training from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 7 and Feb. 21 and the event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 2. For more information, email Gail Wells at [email protected] or Sherri Powers at [email protected].


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44 AMU’s F-15surge to the sky

Airmen from 44th Aircraft Maintenance Unit refuel an F-15C Eagle during a training surge on Kadena Air Base, Jan. 15. The surge allows the unit to get ahead of the fl ying-hour program and gives them the ability to test their maximum production capacity.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa)

By Nick SimeoneDefense Media Activity1/16/2015 - WASHINGTON — Sui-cides among active duty members of the U.S. military decreased in 2013 from the previous year, while those among the reserve components were slightly higher, according to a Defense Department report released today. Th e 2013 DoD Suicide Event Annual Report lists 259 suicides among active component service members and 220 such deaths among members of the re-

serves and National Guard. According to the report, failed intimate relation-ships were the most prevalent stress factor precipitating suicide, with most of those taking their own lives married. Financial or workplace diffi culties were also found to be a key factor. Young, Caucasian males — including junior enlisted troops — were found to be most likely to turn to suicide. Th e report found that just over 66 percent of those who committed suicide had deployed one or more times.

Pentagon offi cials say they are deeply concerned about suicides within the armed forces and are actively working to prevent them. At the same time, they say they have been encouraged to see more people seeking counseling over the past year, including increased calls to helplines and meetings with mental health experts. More than a dozen suicide preven-tion programs are available to service members, veterans and their families, and each of the military branches

conducts suicide prevention awareness training. In addition, DoD as a whole has increased the number of counselors available. Th e Defense Department is also partnered with Veterans Aff airs to promote the Veterans/Military Crisis Line, a confi dential counseling service available around the clock at 800-273-8255. Also off ered is Vets4Warriors.com, which provides confi dential peer support to service members and their families.

New report shows active-duty suicides declined in 2013

115th fighter wing f-16s arrive at kadena - samurai gate€¦ · “th e main emphasis of the uei...

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