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Air Force TogetherWeServed.com Newsletter - February, 2008

In This Issue

FROM THE COCKPIT: Notes andRamblings...Together We Served: Not Just AnotherFace On The WebNew Scam Targets GIs, FamiliesHOT SHOTS! Views From Around the AirForceTroops, DOD Civilians Must Follow RulesFor Political ActivitiesAir Force Celebrates African-AmericanHistory MonthENJOYED THIS ISSUE OF THE TALON?AT EASE! Escape Winter In Hawaii!DOD BILLBOARD

A Pearl of Leadership Wisdom...

"A competent leader can getefficient service from poor troops,while on the contrary an incapableleader can demoralize the best oftroops."- General John J. Pershing

AFTWS and OPSEC

A Powerpoint OPSEC presentation disseminated onJanuary 30th, 2008 through Air Force channels wasintended as an Air Force training aid and a reminderto all that OPSEC is a never-ending responsibilityof every Airman. Although well-intended, thisPowerpoint document focused-in onAirForce.Togetherweserved.com as a study case,but unfortunately contained information which wascompletely incorrect and did not portray AFTWS -- orthe posting behavior of its Members -- in a true andaccurate manner. The issuer has subsequently senttwo correction/ clarification e-mails to the originalrecipients.

To put the record straight, TWS takes its PrivacyPolicy and the security of its sites very seriouslyand completely endorses OPSEC, as does itsMembers.

TWS fully appreciates that servicemen and women,

FROM THE COCKPIT: Notes and Ramblings...

Welcome to the inaugural issue of The TALON!

On behalf of the staff of AFTWS, welcome to the very first edition of your monthlyonline publication, The TALON - AFTWS Newsletter. Over the next few monthswe'll be bringing you "news you can use" along with interesting bits on and aboutyour fellow AFTWS members.

Before I continue, let me take a few minutes to introduce myself: I'm Jon Yim, thenewsletter editor here at the ol' AFTWS Ranch. I also edit the monthly newsletter forNavy.TogetherWeServed.com -- The HOIST. I've been editing the newsletter on the"wet" side of the fence since last April.

And I have a confession to make: Inever served in the US Air Force. But Idid serve for 17 years as a Sailor in theUS Navy -- I started in the traditionalNavy enlisted rating (what we call a jobspecialty in the Sea Services) ofBoatswain's Mate for the first threeyears of my career, then as abroadcaster and public affairs specialistin the Journalist rating.

I have experience working with Blue Suiters -- six years of my career was spent asa broadcaster with the US Navy element to Air Force Pacific Broadcasting Squadron(AFPBS), the parent command of the Far East Network (FEN). I served at FEN'soutlets in Tokyo (Yokota AB) and Okinawa (Kadena AB) in the late 70s through theearly 80s. A side note: After 54 years of service to viewers and listeners in Japan,Okinawa, Philippines and Guam, FEN was dissolved in 1997 and is now known asAFN-Japan (Tokyo, Iwakuni, Sasebo and Misawa) and AFN-Okinawa.

In the late 1980s, I worked with Airmen again during my four years in Australia atNaval Communications Station (NAVCOMMSTA) Harold E. Holt. Our base in theAussie Outback provided support services to an Air Weather Service detachment atthe joint-national Learmonth Solar Observatory.

In addition to serving aboard the combat stores ship USS WHITE PLAINS (AFS 4),my assignments included duty with the public affairs staffs of Commander-In-Chief,US Pacific Fleet (CINCPACFLT) and Commander, US Third Fleet (COMTHIRDFLT).

I retired from active duty as a Petty Officer 1st Class (E6) in 1993 from NAS (nowMCAS) Miramar, and my wife and I have called sunny San Diego home since then. Itall comes full-circle...I went through boot camp here in 1976 at the former US NavalTraining Center, Recruit Training Command (NTC/RTC).

As for me "wearing" Technical Sergeant rank on this board, it's so I can do my job

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TWS fully appreciates that servicemen and women,especially those on active duty, use the samereasonable discretion when posting information ontheir Profile Page as they would in any otherenvironment; particularly as so much privateinformation is now publicly available due to theFreedom of Information Act (FOIA). Therefore, toprovide additional peace of mind, we incorporate aneasy-to-use Privacy Protect feature which preventsselected information, including associatedphotographs, being viewed by others not known tothe Member.

At registration each TWS Member is required toenter only basic information - Name, Rank, AFSCand E-mail Address. All personal details, such ascontact information, are automatically PrivacyProtected on their Profile Page. Members thenproceed to add their service history in as much detailas they feel comfortable, in order to be able tosearch for others they served with. Should a Memberwish to shield any information or photographs whichmay be considered operationally sensitive, such as acurrent assignment, or information they wish to shareonly with those Members on their Buddies list, theycan elect to privacy protect any Training,Assignment, Combat or Family News entry by way ofa simple check box. By being selective, Members canenjoy posting their Service Story and interacting withother Airmen in a secure environment without thedullness of ultimate security lockdown.

TWS is especially proud of the fact that in over fouryears of operation, not one report of any securityincident on its Marines, Navy or Air Force websiteshas ever been received.

IN THE KNOW

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS... - A pair of F-16sfrom the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF)take-in the view of the Las Vegas Strip from theNellis AFB flightline before a mission. The RSAFFighting Falcons are participants in Red Flag 08-2.1.- Photo by MSgt. Robert W. Valenca

- PACAF team donates to Thai school

As for me "wearing" Technical Sergeant rank on this board, it's so I can do my jobhere on AFTWS. I wear the rank equivalent with honor and respect.

But enough about my biography. Let's get back to the newsletter...

What we need from you is YOUR input. We know some of you can write out there --now is your chance to show it off, and maybe even get a little online notoriety! Itdoesn't have to be Pulitzer Prize material, just jot down your thoughts -- we'll takecare of the rest!

Subjects can range from professional development, travel, hobbies, fitness, servicehistory, health matters, veteran benefits, pay and finances...as long as it's written inan informal and conversational tone. Save the "official-ese" for governmentletters and documents. We also like photos taken by our readers showing ourmembers at work and play (within reasonable standards and OPSEC). And we'll evengive you credit for it, too!

We also want to hear about fellow Airmen you've reconnected with through AFTWS.Whether you've been out for years or just finished BMT, we want to hear aboutYOUR experiences!

The focus of The TALON will always be on PEOPLE. Though aircraft, weaponsystems, expeditionary units, facilities and equipment make up the world's greatestaerospace warfighting organization, it's Air Force's PEOPLE that make it all happenevery day.

Drop us a line -- your stories, story ideas, comments and pictures -- anytime to:editor@airforce.togetherweserved.com or aftws.editor@gmail.com.

By the way...feel free to check out my Navy profile over at NTWS. Really. Just runmy last name in the SEARCH BY LASTNAME box on that site.

One more thing: GET OUT THERE AND VOTE! It'll do your Constitution good!

Until next time...

Jon YimEditor

-30-

Together We Served: Not Just Another Face On The WebIn recent weeks AirForce.Togetherweserved.com became the subject of somedebate as a few Air Force bases decided to categorize TWS as a general "socialnetwork" website and blocked access to its Login page. A few of these bases havesince reassessed TWS's function and re-allowed access.

Actually, Together We Served (TWS) military websites are quite different frommainstream social-networking websites (Facebook!, MySpace, etc.) which are: a)open to the public, b) have no clearly-defined common ground, and c) are mainlyfun sites focusing primarily on making new friends.

What differentiates a TWS website is many-fold. Our websites are branch-specific -Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and(soon) Army - and open only to thosewho are current or former servingMarines, Sailors, Airmen or Soldiersand not the general public. You alsowon't see teenage wanna-be's, Scouts,Explorers, Naval Sea Cadets, CAPcadets, Young Marines, JROTCmembers, or delayed-entry recruits asmembers on ANY TWS site.

To preserve the military flavor of all

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- PACAF team donates to Thai school- US Airmen train with Thai, Singapore air forces- SECAF addresses deployed Airmen- Recruiters discuss challenges with Senatesubcommittee- FY '08 aviator continuation pay approved- AF officials release 2009 budget request- Injured Airman overcomes disabilities on skislopes- Scientist demonstrates "bendable electronics"

...AND A TIME TO DANCE - Kindergarten childrendressed in traditional Kyrgyz garb, performed localdances and sang songs to thank SMSgt. ReynoldAlbright (left) and other Airmen for their recentvolunteer efforts at the school in Vasilievka,Kyrgyzstan. Sergeant Albright, attached to the 376thExpeditionary Operations Group, along withvolunteers from Manas AB, Kyrgyzstan, fixed floors,applied fresh paint, and installed a hot water heaterat the school. The 376th EOG also raised $2,000 fora fence to be built around a school to make theirplay area safer.- Photo by SrA Tabitha Kuykendall

AFTWS Military Book & DVD Store

Our AFTWS Book & DVD Store contains one of thelargest selections of military-themed books and videosets available. Find what you are looking for herewith the lowest prices and fast delivery. The AFTWSBook Store is available on the left hand Home Pageas you log into AFTWS or by clicking on this link:

AF TogetherWeServed Book Store

KEN BURNS' "THE WAR" COLLECTOR'SEDITION. A Ken Burns/Lynn Novick 6-Disc DVD set,PLUS a 480-page companion hardcover book with394 illustrations and 21 maps. INCLUDES A BONUSCD SOUNDTRACK! With war-era favorites from

To preserve the military flavor of allTWS sites, Members aren't bombardedwith pop-up ads and otherunmentionables - quite simply, no commercial advertising is allowed in any form.

TWS websites were initially conceived as military heritage websites to preserve theservice stories of all men and women who proudly served the nation in-uniform forthe benefit of family, other service members and future generations. With so manyof the Greatest Generation leaving us (it is estimated that we're losing about 1,000World War 2 veterans each month) this was considered our important task andmission. Thus each TWS site Login Page portrays a WW2 theme to honor theirservice and provide a reminder to those who have followed in their footsteps of theircontribution to our freedom. Charles Lindberg and Ray Jacobs, the last tworemaining Marines who planted the first flag on Mt. Surabachi during the bloodyBattle of Iwo Jima, were Marines.TWS Members until their passing last year, andour Navy.TWS site is host to over 1,000 Sailors who served in WW2.

In addition, we created a unique medium whereby the posting of comprehensiveservice information creates a powerful means for Members to search and reconnectwith others with whom they served throughout their career. No other socialnetworking site provides this level of search capability, and our Marines and Navywebsites contain many thousands of success stories of Shipmates andBuddies/Brothers found.

TWS also provides a venue for Members to network professionally, as well associally, and are great places to share information on matters that affect everydaylife -- including career progression, education, professional development, currentpolicy issues, etc. For example, our Navy TWS site contains a popular Forum called"Ask the Chief" - a mentoring forum for junior Sailors.

Finally, contrary to the way most social networking sites are run which, bynecessity, are highly-automated, TWS sites are administered entirely by a dedicatedteam of former service personnel to professional military standards who monitorevery aspect of website function. Send a question or request to Admin and you willbe responded to by a real TWS staffer within a few hours.

So, while there's a plethora of "pretty face" social networking sites on there on theWeb, TWS is proud to serve those who serve -- standing a little taller -- and a bitmore rugged than the competition.

New Scam Targets GIs, FamiliesBy Joseph GiordonoStars and Stripes

A 3rd Infantry Division soldier deploying to Iraq is warning other servicemembers ofthe latest scam to target troops and their families.

According to 1st Lt. David Cowan, in early December his 84-year-old grandmotherreceived a phone call from a man calling himself J.D. Taylor. The man claimed thatCowan was on his way home on leave from Iraq for the holidays, but had gottenhung up and lost his wallet and military identification card.

Cowan's grandmother, he said, was "asked by this person to wire $800, allegedly onmy behalf so that I could get back home and surprise my family for Christmas."

The claim was a scam. Luckily for Cowan and his family, his grandmother knew tobe suspicious of strangers asking for money, even if they'd somehow managed toreach the relatives of a soldier whose name they knew.

"I told her to write down everything she could remember from the conversation andto immediately contact the authorities," Cowan wrote in an e-mail to Stripes. "Mygrandmother is 84, and still a very sharp woman. Thankfully, she immediately sawthrough his scam and decided to contact me directly."

Cowan suspects the scam artist will try a similar ruse with other military families.And according to federal investigators, he's probably right.

In recent years, the FBI has tracked a growing number of scams targeting militaryfamilies or making false claims to prey on the public's feelings of good will for

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CD SOUNDTRACK! With war-era favorites fromBenny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Nat "King" Cole,Count Basie, and new compositions by WyntonMarsalis and Norah Jones.

If you enjoyed seeing this highly-acclaimed series onPBS this past year, then enjoy it again at yourleisure with this collector's edition DVD set from theAFTWS Book Store.

"A towering film. Ken Burns's finest work. America'sbest documentary filmmaker has vividly captured thevery best generation of Americans. Just as the menand women of World War II answered the call andsaved the world, Ken Burns has created a monumentto their sacrifice and bravery." -Brian Williams, NBC NEWS

"One reason we're excited about 'The War' is simplybecause of how good it is. In my opinion, it's not onlythe best thing Ken Burns has done since 'The CivilWar,' it's the best thing he's done ever." - David Bianculli, NPR's "Fresh Air"

"'The War' will be just about the bestdocumentary...ever seen about the Second WorldWar. - Adam Buckman, NEW YORK POSTOUR PRICE: $169.00

Stop-by soon to browse our Store "aisles"! We'reopen 24/7, with lots of interesting gift ideas foryourself, your family, or favorite Airmen!

families or making false claims to prey on the public's feelings of good will fortroops.

The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center has tracked scams including ones sentfrom purported soldiers who have found or "stolen" millions of dollars in Iraq. Thosescams are similar to the "Nigerian" e-mail scams.

"The scam e-mails vary in content; however, the general theme of each is torequest personal information and/or funds from the individual receiving the e-mail,"according to an FBI primer on the subject.

Despite repeated warnings about these particular or general scams, FBI officials say,many people still fall for them.

Investigators say Cowan handled the situation correctly. Law enforcement authoritiesadvise people to never provide any personal or financial information over the phoneor send money to a stranger on a relative's behalf.

If contacted by a suspicious-sounding person, one should record the details of theconversation and immediately contact local and federal authorities, they say.

HOT SHOTS! Views From Around the Air Force

BATH TIME - Senior Airman Jason Ray applies a magnetic particle bath to a KC-135 Stratotankerbrake plate at March Air Reserve Base, CA. He is checking the brake plate for fatigue and cracks.Airman Ray is a nondestructive inspection technician from the 452nd Maintenance Squadron.- Photo by Val Gempis

COLD SHOULDERS - C-17 Globemaster IIIs wait to be deiced by maintainers from the 62ndAircraft Maintenance Squadron at McChord AFB, WA. Deicing prevents the reformation of ice priorto launch.- Photo by Abner Guzman

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AFTWS Forums - Your Sounding Board!

What was your best duty station or assignment, andwhy? What is the recipe for that wonderful dish youmake for a holiday or other occasions? Do you haveany tips about keeping healthy, or things to watchout for if you have a disease?

These are but a few of the topics that are covered bythe many Forums on AFTWS. These forums provideyou, the members, a variety of places to discuss withother members the many topics we have in common.

Those members still on active duty would probablylike to know about good assignments when theymake out their "dream sheets" or talk to their BLANKat BLANK. Those who have worked as BLANK mightwant to provide a few tips for members in preparingto negotiate orders to their next assignment.

If you have a disease like diabetes, what tips canyou give others about the disease and things towatch out for? Encourage a fellow Airman onAFTWS to keep on top of a health problem so hestays with us for a long time.

These are but a couple of topics that are availablefor you to offer advice, warn others about, discusswith other AFTWS members, or just vent yourfrustrations about. So check out the many Forumsand start a lively discussion about a topic thatinterests you!

MILITARY WEBLINKS

Defenselink -- The OFFICIAL source of news andinformation from the Department of Defense, relatedagencies and all military branches.Multi-National Force - Iraq -- Official website ofMNF-I.Multi-National Corps - Iraq -- Official website ofMNC-I, "Leading the transformation of Iraq."International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) --Official website for coalition forces in AfghanistanThe Pentagon Channel -- 24-hour broadcasts ofofficial military news and information for members ofthe US Armed Forces through select stateside cablesystems, and overseas via American Forces Network(AFN). My AFN.mil -- American Forces Network (AFN)provides multi-channel, broadcast-quality radio andtelevision services and expanded internal informationproducts to all DoD members and their familiesstationed overseas, on contingency operations, andonboard Navy ships around the world. We Bring YouHome.

OFFICIAL SERVICE BRANCH

BREAKFAST IS SERVED - Airmen tuck-in to a hot breakfast from a field kitchen at the 421st AirExpeditionary Group camp for Air Force Exercise Eagle Flag 08-2 in Lakehurst, NJ.- Photo by MSgt. Kevin J. Gruenwald

GOOD TO GO - TSgt. Kyle Gurnon checks out the window of a C-130 Hercules as it prepares totake off from Ramstein AB, Germany. Sergeant Gurnon is a Rhode Island Air National Guardloadmaster with the 143rd Airlift Wing at Quonset State Airport.- Photo by MSgt. Scott Wagers

Troops, DOD Civilians Must Follow Rules For PoliticalActivitiesAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- As U.S. servicemembers and Defense Department civiliansponder candidates during the election season, they should realize there are limitsplaced upon their involvement in certain political activities.

Political-related "dos and don'ts" pertaining to military members of all servicebranches are proscribed within Defense Department Directive 1344.10, titled:Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces on Active Duty.

The federal Hatch Act delineates what federal civilians, including those working forthe Defense Department, may or may not do in the political realm.

For example, servicemembers and government civilians may attend political eventslike meetings and rallies, but military members must only be spectators and notwear their uniforms.

In addition, troops aren't permitted to make public political speeches, serve in anyofficial capacity within political groups or take part in partisan political campaigns orconventions.

Under Hatch Act rules, government civilians may be active in and speak beforepolitical gatherings or serve as officers of political parties or partisan groups. Theyare also allowed to manage political campaigns; distribute literature, except atwork; write political articles; or serve as spokespersons for political parties orcandidates.

Military members generally aren't allowed to campaign for political office. Civilianscan campaign for office in non-partisan elections. Partisan political activity is definedas activity directed toward the success or failure of a political party or candidate fora partisan political office or partisan political group.

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OFFICIAL SERVICE BRANCHMAGAZINES: AIR FORCE - Airman NAVY - All Hands MARINE CORPS - Marines ARMY - Soldiers COAST GUARD - Coast Guard

Military Homefront -- A DoD Web portal for reliableQuality of Life information designed to help troopsand their families, leaders and service providers.Whether you live the military lifestyle or support thosewho do, you'll find what you need! Stars & Stripes -- The DoD-authorizedUNOFFICIAL daily newspaper for US Forcesoverseas, printed in European, Pacific and Mideasteditions. Department of Defense Educational Activity(DoDEA) -- DoDEA operates more than 218 publicschools for grades K-12 in 14 districts located inseven U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 12foreign countries to serve the children of militaryservice members and Department of Defense civilianemployees.Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) --The military's largest retailer. A mission-essential,and the premier quality of life provider for all DoDmilitary members, civilians, contractors and theirfamilies worldwide.Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) -- Deliveringthe premier quality-of-life benefit to military membersworldwide.United Service Organizations (USO) -- The USOsupports U.S. troops and their families wherever theyserve. Across the United States and around theworld, the American military knows that the USO isthere for them. Until Every One Comes Home.Space Avaliable Travel fact sheet -- Answers tothe most common Space A travel questions,courtesy of the 60th Air Mobility Wing, Travis AFB,CA.

UNIFORM REGULATIONS: AIR FORCE - AFI 36-2903 COAST GUARD - COMDTINST M1020.6E NAVY - NAVPERS 15665I MARINE CORPS - MCO P1020.34G ARMY - AR 670-1

Using Your Government E-mail Addy onAFTWS?

Are you using your "@af.mil" email address in yourAFTWS profile? If so, you might want to considergetting a free, non-military addy.

A couple of reasons to not use your official emailaddress here at AFTWS: Should you get transferredand forget to log in after your PCS, you mayexperience some difficulty in logging back on to oursite. Or, if you get an email from a long-lost buddyfrom basic, technical school, or previous assignment,you won't get the notification they're trying to contactyou. Nor will you receive the The TALON -- themonthly AFTWS Newsletter.

a partisan political office or partisan political group.

Yet, basic rules apply to both military members and government civilians. Neithercan use their position in the military or the government to influence or interfere withelections. Servicemembers and federal civilians never can engage in political activityon the job, in a government vehicle or while wearing an official uniform.

For example, servicemembers and government civilians are not to distribute politicalliterature at work. This also applies to politically partisan electronic mail messagesforwarded over the Internet.

Servicemembers and government civilians are encouraged to exercise their right tovote and participate in the democratic process. But, they should know there arerules in place that govern the extent of their involvement in political activities,officials said.

Air Force Celebrates African-American History MonthSAN ANTONIO -- In 1926, Carter G. Woodson single-handedly pioneered thecelebration of "Negro History Week," during the second week in February, tocoincide with the birthday celebrations for Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass

Mr. Carter's proposal later became Black History Month, and since 1976, iscelebrated every February.

One purpose of Black History Monthis to recognize past events that affectus today. Some events receive greatattention. Others are more subtle,receiving little fanfare yet are just asimportant in shaping and moldingAmerica.

War Department General Order No.143 is one of those less-rememberedbut important events. Issued May 22,1863, the order established theBureau of Colored Troops.

In his article, First to Fight, authorJohn Raymond Gourdin wrote, "Priorto the establishment of the bureau,colored regiments were organized andsupported by state governments infree states and in areas inConfederate states occupied and controlled by Federal troops. However, after theestablishment of the bureau, those regiments that were previously raised by stategovernments and carried state designations were redesignated as regiments ofUnited States Colored Troops and assigned a USCT number."

Many Americans of African descent continue to agree with the fundamentals andprinciples established by General Order 143. Accepting the opportunity to serve,defending the borders and upholding the integrity of law permeate through thosewho continue the tradition of military service today.

There have been many African-American pioneers who have played an integral rolein air power. To learn more about these pioneers and Black History Month click hereto go to a special multimedia presentation.

- MSgt. Kevin McWashington from the 301st Aerospace Medicine Squadroncontributed to this story

ENJOYED THIS ISSUE OF THE TALON?Please forward this link to other Airmen you know, your friends, and your family!

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Besides, the Chief just might smack you about thehead and shoulders for abusing the computer atwork...and we wouldn't want that.

If you don't already have a civilian email account, wesuggest getting one from of the many free web-based email providers (Hotmail, Yahoo!, GoogleGmail, etc.). Sign-up is painless, and you'll have analternate email addy to throw-around wherever yougo. Just pick the free email service that suits yourneeds.

To change the email address on your profile, clickon the EDIT button in your Personal Details sectionand insert your new email address there. Justremember to click SAVE below the text area whenyou are finished.

One more email-related item: If you have a spamguard program on your email, please configure it toallow messages from admin@togetherweserved.comto come through and not treat it as spam. This allowsus to send you messages without any hassle.

TOPICS FOR VETS

New law gives disabled veteransmore home grants

Department of Veterans Affairs

WASHINGTON -- A change in federal law allowscertain seriously injured veterans andservicemembers to receive multiple grants forconstructing or modifying their homes, theDepartment of Veterans Affairs has announced.

Before the change, eligible veterans andservicemembers could receive special adaptivehousing grants of $10,000 or $50,000 from VA onlyonce. Now they may use the benefit up to threetimes, so long as the total grants stay withinspecified limits outlined in the law.

"Veterans seriously disabled during their militaryservice have earned this benefit," said Secretary ofVeterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake. "This changeensures that every eligible veteran andservicemember has the chance to use the maximumamount afforded to them by our grateful nation."

In order to ensure all previous recipients are awareof this opportunity, VA has mailed more than 16,000letters to eligible veterans, reaching out to those whoused only a portion of their grant or who decided notto use the grant even after initially qualifying.

The response over the past year has been dramatic,with more than 4,600 applications received thus far.Of these, approximately 3,900 veterans have beendetermined eligible under the new law, and morethan 200 grants already awarded.

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As AFTWS continues to grow, so does its potential to find old Shipmates and newfriends; as well as creating a vibrant and enjoyable Air Force online communityrepresenting all eras, from WW2 to present-day.

AT EASE! Escape Winter In Hawaii!By Jon YimEditor, The TALON

Ahhh, winter. For most of the world, it's here -- big time. And while many will bedealing with the trials and tribulations of the season's icy grip, there's a place wheremilitary members can go for year-round sun, fun, sand and surf. And if you won'tneed a passport or visa to stay there.

It's our 50th State -- Hawaii.

Believe it or not, a Hawaii vacation is affordable for GIs going on-leave, whetheryou plan on going solo, or bringing the entire family. And there's a ton of optionsand locations for almost every military pocketbook.

We'll look at a few tried-and-true places...and a few hidden gems in the Islands.

Keep in-mind -- with the exception of the Hale Koa Hotel -- that service membersfrom all branches (and in some cases, current and retired DoD civilians) arewelcome to use military recreation areas in Hawaii; but at some facilities do givepriority to those of the host service.

Hale Koa Hotel - Armed Forces Recreation CenterSince its grand opening in October 1975, the Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki remains anall-ranks, all-service hotel bent on providing first-class service without regard to anindividual's status. This is echoed in the hotel's mission statement that has remainedunchanged from its inception: "To operate a first class hotel and recreation facilityat affordable prices for military members and their families."

Today, Fort DeRussy Armed ForcesRecreation Center is home to the Hale KoaHotel -- House of the Warrior in Hawaiian -- a world-class resort hotel and continuedfavorite R&R destination for our country'smilitary members.

In 1991, a major expansion project of theHale Koa, including development of 66acres of Fort DeRussy, a new swimmingpool complex, two snack bars, a beverage

bar and luau garden. In addition, Kalia Road, fronting the hotel, was also realignedand improved. By 1995, the new Maile Tower took its place beside the existing IlimaTower increasing the number of guestrooms from 419 to 817. Also, debuting was a1,287 stall parking garage, fitness center, adults-only pool, and an upscalerestaurant, Bibas.

The Hale Koa takes great pride in operating self-sufficiently from day one, as notone taxpayer dollar is used in its upkeep or operation. The Hale Koa, one of fourArmy MWR-operated recreation centers worldwide (which includes the EdelweissResort, Germany; the Dragon Hill Lodge, Korea and Shades of Green Resort,Orlando, FL), is truly a benefit for all military personnel to enjoy. It's estimated thatover one million military personnel and dependents take advantage of the HaleKoa's many facilities each year.

The Hale Koa's two towers, Maile and Ilima, house a total of 817 spacious guestrooms. Rates for all rooms are based onrank and room category desired (NOTE:Ocean-view rooms are pricier). Most roomsare furnished with either: one king, two

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VA has averaged about 1,000 adaptive housing grantapplications per year during the past 10 years. Sincethe program began in 1948, it has provided morethan $650 million in grants to about 34,000 seriouslydisabled veterans.

To ensure veterans' and servicemembers' needs aremet and grant money is spent properly, VA worksclosely throughout the entire process with contractorsand architects to design, construct and modifyhomes that meet the individuals' housingaccessibility needs.

Eligible for the benefit are those with specific service-connected disabilities entitling them to VAcompensation for a "permanent and total disability."They may receive a grant to construct an adaptedhome or to modify an existing one to meet theirspecial needs.

VA has three types of adapted housing grantsavailable. The Specially Adapted Housing grant,currently limited to $50,000, is generally used tocreate a wheelchair-accessible home for those whomay require such assistance for activities of dailyliving.

VA's Home Loan Guaranty program and the NativeAmerican Direct Loan program may also be usedwith the SAH benefit to purchase an adaptive home.

The Special Housing Adaptations grant, currentlylimited to $10,000, is generally used to assistveterans with mobility throughout their homes due toblindness in both eyes, or the anatomical loss or lossof use of both hands or extremities below the elbow.

A third type established by the new law, theTemporary Residence Adaptation grant, is availableto eligible veterans and seriously injured active dutyservicemembers who are temporarily living or intendto temporarily live in a home owned by a familymember.

While the SAH and SHA grants require ownershipand title to a house, in creating TRA Congressrecognized the need to allow veterans and activeduty members who may not yet own homes to haveaccess to the adaptive housing grant program.

Under TRA, veterans and servicemembers eligibleunder the SAH program would be permitted to useup to $14,000, and those eligible under the SHAprogram would be allowed to use up to $2,000 of themaximum grant amounts. Each grant would count asone of the three grants allowed under the newprogram.

"The goal of all three grant programs is to provide abarrier-free living environment that offers thecountry's most severely injured veterans orservicemembers a level of independent living,"added Dr. Peake.

are furnished with either: one king, twoqueen or two double beds. You can alsoreserve one additional room for immediatefamily members.

Room amenities include central airconditioning, alarm clock/radio, phoneanswering service, complimentary bathsoaps, shampoos, conditioners and lotions; hair dryer, ironing board and iron, colorTV, pay-per-view movies, and high-speed Internet access ($9.95 per 24-hourperiod). For safekeeping valuables, the hotel offers registered guests safety depositboxes with 24-hour access at no charge.

The Hale Koa Hotel is a first class resort hotel which offers a wide variety of facilitiesand services for the men and women of our Armed Forces.

Reservations:www.halekoa.com orwww.armymwr.com/portal/travel/recreationcenters/hale_koa_hotel.html800-367-6027 Monday - Saturday 8:00am to 4:00pm HST (Closed on federalholidays) reservations@halekoa.com

Bellows Air Force Station Cabins & CampsitesIt's truly a hidden treasure. Bellows AFS is located on the northern part ofWaimanalo Bay on the island of O'ahu -- which includes a stretch of white sandybeach that curves around the bay. The beach offers users a resort-quality Hawaiiansetting far from the confines of Waikiki. Whether you're camping, staying in a cabin,or just spending the day at the beach, Bellows AFS is the perfect getaway forfamilies or couples.

The installation honors the memory ofArmy Air Corps Lieutenant FranklinBarney Bellows, a World War I hero.Once known as Bellows Field, it was atraining area for Army infantry, coastartillery, and Air Corps. At one time,Bellows Field had a single asphaltrunway 75 feet wide and 983 feetlong. Since the end of World War II,the runway has been abandoned andovergrown, but remnants of the airfield can be found.

With it's laid back charm, perfect beach, warm water, sugary white sand, Bellowshas so much to offer military families stationed in Hawaii (as well as those from out-of-state). Amenities include cabin and campsite rentals, a Beach Club, an AAFES gasstation and Shoppette, and a plethora of outdoor activities both in and out of thewater.

For those wanting their activites more on the dry side, there's horseback riding,paintball, mini golf, historical and nature hiking tours, and bike tours. You can alsorent snorkle gear, Boogie boards, kayaks, beach chairs, ice chests and pedalcarriages from the Equipment Rental hut.

During peak season (from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day), active duty AirForce have priority and can make reservations 90 days in advance. Bellows is a verypopular military vacation spot and tends to fill up quickly, especially the cabins.Bellows takes reservations up to one year in-advance during off-season. Campsitescan accommodate two tents with a maximum of ten people per site.

Cabins will comfortably accommodatefour people, but you are allowed amaximum of ten if you wish. Cabinamenities include kitchenettes, full

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Other VA adaptive housing benefits are currentlyavailable through Vocational Rehabilitation andEmployment Service's "Independent Living" program,the Insurance Service's Veterans Mortgage LifeInsurance program, and the Veterans HealthAdministration's Home Improvement and StructuralAlterations grant.

For more information about grants and otheradaptive housing programs, contact a local VAregional office at 1-800-827-1000 or local veteranservice organization. Additional program informationand grant applications, VAF-26-4555, can be foundat http://www.homeloans.va.gov/sah.htm.

TRICARE Offers Shingles Vaccine

TRICARE now covers for beneficiaries 60 and olderZostavax, the vaccine designed to prevent shingles,a painful viral disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) recommends a single dose of shinglesvaccine for everyone age 60 and over. Beneficiarieswho receive the shingles vaccine must havevaccinations administered in a provider's office.Zostavax is covered under the TRICARE medicalbenefit and is not reimbursable under the pharmacybenefit.

Beneficiaries with questions should contact theirTRICARE regional claims processor found on theirbeneficiary explanation of benefits notice. For moreinformation on the vaccine, visit the CDC website.

SERVICE NEWS ROUNDUP

FLIGHT DECK DANCE - Two F/A-18 Hornet aircrafttaxi into position during flight operations on thenuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS TheodoreRoosevelt (CVN 71) during recent operations whileunder way in the Atlantic Ocean.- USN photo by MC3 Jonathan Snyder

NAVY- MCPON outlines expectations of the First ClassPetty Officer- Navy environmental readiness director discussessonar, new website- SECNAV views ASW exercise aboard USSAbraham Lincoln- USNS Comfort tapped for Pacific Partnership 2008- Sailor re-ups at the bottom of the world

amenities include kitchenettes, fullsize refrigerator, barbecue grill, dailyhousekeeping service, telephones andcable TV. Towels, linens and pillowsare provided by housekeepingservices.

Active duty military, military retirees,reservists, National Guardsmen, current and retired Department of Defense civilianemployees are eligible to reserve cabins at Bellows. Reservations are limited to onecabin per authorized user.

Since Bellows is also an operational Air Force facility with an installation commanderand active units, safety and security is paramount. A USAF Security Forces flight ispermanently attached to the air station providing law enforcement and securityservices to guests and the command.

There are two lifeguard stations along Bellows Beach, with lifeguards on duty everyday from 10am to 5pm.

For a change of pace, and to get away from it all, Bellows AFS provides a greatplace to relax year-round!

Reservations:www.bellowsafs.com800-437-2607 or 808-259-8080, 8:00am to 5:00pm HSTNo reservations accepted by email or Internet

Kilauea Military Camp, Big IslandSurrounded by the dramatic beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the BigIsland of Hawaii is another best-kept military recreation center secret: Kilauea

Military Camp, or KMC.

While Kilauea Miltary Camp, a JointServices Recreation Center, onlyoccupies about 50 acres of the nationalpark's 300,000+ acres. Its history is asold as the Hawaii Volcanoes NationalPark, both were established in the sameyear -- 1916.

Since then, the natural wonders andmarvels of Kilauea Volcano have drawn

millions of military members, their families and guests to stay in the rustic -- butcomfortable cabins -- of KMC. In its 89 years of existence, KMC had served as anArmy training facility, a Navy camp, and hosted numerous dignitaries -- includingGeneral Dwight D. Eisenhower, the WWII allied commander who would later becomePresident of the United States.

During World War 2, KMC briefly served as an internment camp for enemy aliens,and later as a prisoner-of-war camp.

Due to its close proximity to an active volcano, KMC has experienced the power ofKilauea, but has never been threatened by its frequent tremors and eruptions.

While the camp still maintains its historical charm, renovations to the camp in thelast decade have enhanced KMC's facilities and services making it one of themilitary's favorite -- yet little-known -- vacation resorts.

KMC offers 90 one-, two- and three-bedroom cottages and apartments withall the comforts of home. Each unitincludes a mini-refrigerator, microwave,coffee maker, iron and ironing board,

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- Sailor re-ups at the bottom of the world- Navy demonstrates high-energy electromagneticrail gun

SEEKING CARE - A local resident brings his youngdaughter to a medical clinic conducted by Iraqisoldiers and coalition forces at the Falahat PrimarySchool in Hasan ad Daryush, Iraq.- US Army photo

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE- SECDEF: Baghdad bombings may show insurgents'desperation- Officials: Guard/Reserve report "fundamentallyflawed"- Conditions change, but US-ROK alliance remainsstrong- Service leaders report recruiting goal success- National Defense Authorization Act empowersNational Guard- Iraq attacks down to two-year low

NEW CUTTER TO JOIN USCG - Sea trials beganrecently for the Bertholf (WMSL-750), the US CoastGuard's first National Security Cutter designed withmulti-mission capabilities. Bertholf is the first of eightin the new class of technologically-advanced cuttersto be built at Northrop Grumman, acquired under theCoast Guard's Deepwater Program. - Photo courtesy of Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding

coffee maker, iron and ironing board,hairdryer -- even umbrellas areprovided in each cabana for thoseunexpected showers.

As KMC is in a cool, upcountry setting4,000 feet above sea level, everycottage and apartment is comfortablyequipped with electric heat and a fireplace. It is suggested that guests dress forfluctuating weather; wearing clothing layers and bringing rain jackets arerecommended. For guests with special needs, there are ADA-compliant units.

Besides touring the national park, KMC guests can relax in the Recreation Lodge, orenjoy great meals and drinks in the Crater Rim Cafe, 10-Pin Grille or Lava Lounge.As KMC is an operational Army post, there's also a movie theater, bowling center,tennis courts, fitness center, chapel, an AAFES gas station and general store, and ameeting/conference center. Wireless internet access is available to all guests, andthere's even a Starbucks on the camp to soothe your latte cravings.

KMC is open to all active and retired military, Reserve and National Guard members,current and retired Department of Defense civilian employees, dependents andsponsored guests.

Reservations:www.kmc-volcano.comFrom O'ahu: call 438-6707 (direct dial); all other locations: 808-967-8333 or 808-967-7315.reservations@kmc-volcano.com

PMRF Barking Sands Beach Cottages, Kaua'i Located on the scenic "Garden Island" of Kaua'i -- far from the hustle and bustle ofurbanized O'ahu and the tourist glitz of Waikiki -- the Beach Cottages at the USNavy's Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) Barking Sands is another best-keptvacation secret for all service members stationed in, or visiting, the Aloha State.

Located 36 miles from Lihue Airport,it's just a 25-minute inter-islandcommercial flight from HonoluluInternational Airport and a 45-minutedrive to the base. Forget Waikiki andthe other touristy spots. PMRF'sbeach cottages will let you really get-away from it all! Nineteen beachcottages and two VIP units sit justback from the breakers at PMRFBarking Sands. These modern two-bedroom bungalows sleep six and include washer and dryer, cable television,videocassette recorder/player, and full kitchen facilities.

Each cabin also features a large veranda to watch the day's sunrise or sunset incomfy patio furnishings -- and a barbecue area just outside of each bungalow letsyou cook al fresco under the West Kaua'i sky. With no city lights to drown out thestars at night, the constellations emerge brightly; showing-off the planets, stars andthe occasional streaking comet.

Barking Sands is perfect for kicking back, and you can settle in for up to two weeks.At rates starting at $70 and up a night, the cottages and their sunset views areamong the best military vacation deals ever, yet vacancies abound during latespring and early fall.

Caution: The surf can get high here, rip tides are common, and there are NOLIFEGUARDS. The best time to get in the water is early morning (be sure to bring abuddy).

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FACING THE PENTAGON PRESS CORPS - NavyAdmiral Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the JointChiefs of Staff, makes a point during a recentPentagon press briefing on the process for decidingwhen troops would redeploy from Iraq.- DoD photo by MC1 Chad J. McNeeley

ARMY- Army responds to rising suicide rates- USNORTHCOM to Commission: Ready forhomeland security- Army testing privatized housing for unaccompaniedSoldiers- Spouse writes book about deployment struggles- Former NY Giant cheers team from Afghanistan

SPOT THE FAKE - Army SSG Terry Dahl holds areal 9mm pistol in his right hand and a toy replicapistol in his left outside an Iraqi police station inSeddah, to demonstrate how similar the fake andreal weapons look. Coalition forces are asking shopowners to stop selling the toys to children so theyare not mistaken for insurgents. Dahl is in Iraq withthe 9th Psychological Operations (PSYOPS)Battalion.- US Army photo by SPC Adam Sanders

MARINE CORPS- Navy Corpsman saves Marines, other lives at riflerange- Visible cell phones off uniforms, says new reg- III MEF Bandsmen tackle Okinawa jungle warfarecourse- Quick reaction force Marines safeguard AlTaquaddm - Marines, Soldiers train Iraqi Police for the future- MCRD San Diego museum docent leaves legacy ofknowledge

PMRF's combination NavyExchange/commissary is a bit largerthan a convenience store and carriesall things needed for cooking andsnacking. Why cook, though, when amile away there's an all-ranks Galley(which is also open to retirees)? Atabout $3 for lunch, including an all-you-can-eat salad bar, with entree,veggies, drink, and dessert, we'retalking 1950s prices and oversizedservings!

If you tire of taking-in the sights and sounds of breaking surf day after day, you cansip a cold one while sampling the menu at PMRF's Shenanigans beach club, or stopby the MWR on base to look over their well-organized booklets filled with islandadventures. The folks there will point out the best deals, provide a military discounton activities on and off base, and arrange reservations and payment.

Options include canoeing or kayaking up the Wailua River to a waterfall, catamarancruising the Na Pali north shore, backcountry horseback riding near Poipu Beach,hiking to Hanakapiai Falls, golfing at Princeville's championship course, helicoptertouring in Waimea Canyon, deep sea fishing for ahi, and ocean snorkeling and scubadiving complete with gourmet sunset dinners.

A bit of Hollywood movie trivia: PMRF Barking Sands played "body double" for SubicBay Naval Station and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines in the 1991 film, "Flight Of TheIntruder." The island of Kaua'i has also been used for film backdrops in "HoneymoonIn Vegas" (1992), "Raiders Of The Lost Ark" (1981), "Uncommon Valor" (1983), and"Jurassic Park" (1993).

Reservations:808-335-4752 Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm HSTBeach cottage eligibility policy & ratesBeach cottage application form

So, if a Hawaiian vacation is just what the good doctor ordered, it doesn't have tobust your wallet or sanity...provided you plan in-advance and take advantage of therecreation resorts for the military in the Aloha State!

Most military MWR/ITT offices can assist you in booking your reservations or youcan do it yourself.

Once that's done, start packing your board shorts, swimsuit, sunscreen and buy anew pair of cool shades. You're off on a well-deserved vacation in the dead ofwinter!

As we say in my home state: "E Komo Mai...Nou Ka Hale!" -- Come inside...Thehouse is yours!

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THE WALL SAYS IT ALL - Marine LCpl. Kyle Millsleads fellow Marines through jumping-jacks insidethe gas chamber on Camp Lejeune, NC. Marines ofthe 8th Engineer Support Battalion and 2nd SupplyBattalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conductedtheir annual training session at the base. - USMC photo by Pfc. Bobbie A. Curtis

THE TALON - AFTWS NEWSLETTER

A monthly online publication ofAirForce.TogetherWeServed.com, a commercialentity in no way affiliated, authorized or endorsed bythe U.S. Government, Department of Defense,Department of the Air Force, or any of its agencies.

Opinions and views expressed herein are notnecessarily those of AFTWS, the U.S. Government,Department of the Air Force or the Department ofDefense.

The TALON - AFTWS Newsletter is published anddistributed for informational purposes only andshould not be considered official Air Force policy orregulation. Contact your Support Flight concerning allcurrent policy, regulation and doctrine matters.

Photos used in this online publication are official U.S.Air Force/Department of Defense imagery, unlessotherwise indicated.

Please send any comments, quality improvementsuggestions or story ideas to:editor@airforce.togetherweserved.com oraftws.editor@gmail.com.

Jon Yim - Editor

Sincerely, The AFTWS Administration Teamhttp://airforce.togetherweserved.com

Copyright © 2008 TogetherWeServed | All Rights Reserved.