october 2005 - 507arw.afrc.af.mil october 2005 on-final.pdfoctober 2005 page 3 507th arw mission:...
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507th Air Refueling Wing - 513th Air Control GroupTinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma
ATSO
October 2005Vol. 25, No. 10
Sorting through bags of donated itemsSee Pages 10-11 for details
On-final COMMENTARY
PAGE 2 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” OCTOBER 2005
Editor’s Note: The following letter was delivered on Sept. 2,2005, by Gen. T. Michael Moseley to the Airmen of the UnitedStates Air Force.
We are a Nation at war. Today marks the 1,426th day we’vebeen fighting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. World WarII lasted 1,347 days. We’ve now been fighting the Global War onTerror for 2 1/2 months longer than World War II. From the dayDESERT STORM kicked off, Jan. 17, 1991, the Air Force hasbeen in continuous combat. For 14 years our enemies have shotat us and for 14 years we’ve returned the favor. But no matterhow long the road, we must never lose our focus on winning thisfight.
Today, we are engaged more than ever...from across the globe tohere at home. From taking the fight to the enemy in Iraq; to rebuildinglives in the wake of hurricane Katrina; to controlling satellites on theother side of the world; to fighting forest fires in the Rockies; to pa-trolling the skies over America--you can be proud of the work yourAir Force is doing to protect our country. I’m incredibly proud to bea member of an Air Force family that has over 106,000 Airmen as-signed or deployed in 64 countries, on every continent, and in everytime zone throughout the world.
We have handled each and every task brought before us withlethal efficiency, because of you. It is an honor to work and fightalongside you in service to our Republic. The 684,000 active,Reserve, Guard, and civilians of the United States Air Force aretruly a total force. We stand alongside our Army, Navy, MarineCorps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine brethren ready to
answer the Nation’s call. We fight together. We triumph together.Our promise to the joint team is that as Airmen we will always be thebest in the world at what we do: dominating Air and Space from 1inch above the ground to 100,000 miles above the earth.
Today, we have three major challenges facing our Air Force.First and foremost is accomplishing the combatant tasks the Presi-dent and Secretary of Defense assign. The tasks will be oneswe’ve done before and ones we’ve never undertaken. Second, wemust preserve that which makes us the most feared air force inthe world -- our people. Our culture of excellence must continueto develop Airmen... Airmen who are the most adaptable, mostskilled, most professional, and most lethal the world has everknown. Third, we face the difficult task of operating the oldestinventory in the history of the United States Air Force. My seniorleadership will work to break this vicious cycle. I need you, ourAirmen on the line, to continue making the mission happen.
As we work towards a more secure, more peacefultomorrow...look around. Behind us you’ll see a proud, rich heri-tage. And in front of us is a limitless horizon. So let’s push it up,go to work and make the mission happen.
T. MICHAEL MOSELEYGeneral, USAFChief of Staff
To the Airmen of the United States Air Force
By Acting Secretary of the Air Force Pete Geren
The following are excerpts from re-marks to the Air Force Association’s Airand Space Conference opening day key-note address, Washington, Sept. 12, 2005
Our greatest asset – our most pow-erful weapon – is our Airmen. We mustdevelop our people to the limits of theirability. Getting them the right trainingand experience to grow the leaders,both officer and NCO, we will needfor the future.
Training that focuses on three criti-cal areas: Character, Knowledge, andReadiness.
· Character – to reinforce our CoreValues — values that are critical toeverything we do and values that tieall Airmen together in bonds of trust
and respect· Knowledge – to provide our Airmen
with both depth and breadth — depth tomake them experts with their weapons sys-tems and breadth so that they can under-stand the context in which they employthem. Together, depth and breadth allowsfor innovation – the ability to find newways to employ existing systems to accom-plish mission objectives.
· And finally Readiness – to main-tain ourselves as the world’s premierexpeditionary force — ready to re-spond on a moment’s notice to conductmajor military operations around theglobe or defend our nation’s cities andtowns. Ready to respond to disastersand catastrophes around the world orjust down the highway. Ready to facean uncertain future…an unpredictable
The State of the Force - 2005foe.
For we do face an uncertain worldwith potential threats ranging from ter-rorists and insurgents and rising near-peer competitors. If the last 15 yearsof conflict have taught us anything, itis that our nation will need Air andSpace power to overcome thosethreats.
We are fighting hard today, both athome and abroad. And we must ensurethat we are ready to fight tomorrow’swars as well.
I am certain that these Airmen – andthe Core Values they hold dear – will con-tinue to serve us well in decades to come.
Our Airmen are doing outstandingwork across the globe and deserve ev-erything we can do to help them preparethemselves and we’re far from done.
“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final
PAGE 3OCTOBER 2005
507th ARW Mission: Man, train, equip, and sustain an Expeditionary Reserve Force in support of DoD peacetime and wartime taskings.513th ACG Mission: Citizen-airmen extending America’s Global Power operating the world’s best airborne battle management, warning and control platform.
UNIT NEWS
507th Air Refueling Wing Editorial Staff507th ARW Commander- Col. Dean DespinoyChief of Public Affairs- Lt. Col. Rich CurryDeputy Chief of Public Affairs- Capt. Bill PiercePublic Affairs Officer - Capt. Jeffrey WhiteOn-final Editor - Tech. Sgt. Melba KochPublic Affairs Specialist - Tech. Sgt. Tyrone YoshidaPublic Affairs Specialist - Senior Airman Bryan Axtell
513th Air Control Group Editorial Staff513th Air Control Gp. - Staff Sgt. Andy Stephens
Unit Public Affairs Representatives507th Civil Engineer Sq.- Tech. Sgt. George Proctor507th Logistics Support Sq. - Master Sgt. Paul Victorian72nd Aerial Port Sq.- Tech. Sgt. Robert Shahan507th Services Flt. - Senior Airman Tessa Stevens507th Aircraft Maintenance Sq.- Capt. Karen Baskin507th Medical Sq.- Tech. Sgt. Lonnie Royal507th Security Forces Sq.- CMSgt. David Holman465th Air Refueling Sq.- Senior Master Sgt. Scott“Scooter” Wilson507th Maintenance Group- Master Sgt. Jeff Tyler507th Com. Flt. - Staff Sgt. Charles Williams1st Aviation Standards Flt - SMSgt. Rob Uzzle
This funded Air Force Reserve Command magazine is anauthorized publication for members of the U.S. military ser-vices. Contents of On-final are not necessarily the official viewsof, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department ofDefense, or the Department of the Air Force. The editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided bythe 507th Air Refueling Wing’s Public Affairs Office, 7435Reserve Road, Suite 7, Tinker AFB, OK., 73145-8726 All photographs are Air Force photographs unless other-wise indicated. Copy deadline is NOON on UTA Sundayfor the next month’s edition. This is your news source. Take it home with you to sharewith family, friends, and employers.
Volume 25, No. 10 OCTOBER 2005
513th Aircraft Generation Sq. - Tech. Sgt. James Stratton513th Ops Support Flt. - Senior Airman Raquel Lyons970th AACS - Vacant
Two men were out on a lake fishing on a Sunday morn-ing. After several hours of catching nothing, one of themremarked, “I should have gone to church today!”
To which the other man replied, “Yeah, but I couldn’tgo to church anyway.”
“Why not?”“Well, my wife is sick and I wouldn’t want to leave
her.”Isn’t it interesting that we make time for what is a true
priority in our lives? I know the church is not perfect, butI encourage you to take to heart the biblical admonition to“not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit ofdoing, but let us encourage one another.”
This UTA you can be a part of a Catholic Mass or aProtestant Service on Sunday at 7:30 a.m. Next Sunday,you can make time to attend the church where you are amember. If you do not have a place to worship, find oneand go! You’ll be glad you did.
UTA ServicesSunday Protestant Service (7:30 a.m.)
Bldg. 1056, 513th AuditoriumSunday Catholic Mass (7:30 a.m.)
Bldg. 1066, OG Conference Room
nition and other aspects of the Air Force. This year’s sur-vey also covers enduring competencies such as effectivecommunication, teamwork, judgment and adaptation un-der pressure.
“Since the survey software protects one’s identity, I en-courage everyone to be honest and straightforward in theirresponses,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jackson A. Winsett,AFRC command chief master sergeant. “The survey datawill be as good as the respondents make it. It’s our oppor-tunity to stand up and be counted.”
The survey can be completed online at https://afclimatesurvey.af.mil/ anytime during the survey periodfrom either a government or personal computer.
Results of the survey will be released in February tounit leaders. (AFRC News Service)
Command seeks greater climate survey participationROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. – Air Force Reserve
Command leaders want everyone in the command – mili-tary and civilian – to participate in the 2005 Air ForceClimate Survey.
The survey runs from Oct. 1 to Nov. 23.“Last year was the first time AFRC participated in the
survey, and the results were tremendous,” said Lt. Gen.John A. Bradley, AFRC commander. “The 33-percent par-ticipation rate sent a clear message that our people are com-mitted to improving the Air Force.
“This year our goal is 100-percent participation acrossthe command,” he said.
The purpose of the survey is to make things better forpeople and their organizations. The survey measures howpeople feel about leadership, supervision, training, recog-
By Chaplain (Capt.) Dwight L. MagnusCHAPLAIN’S CORNER
On-final
PAGE 4 OCTOBER 2005
On-final UNIT NEWS
“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
DALLAS – Military service members spend years build-ing careers on values such as trust, competency and responsibil-ity, all which can come crashing down with one shoplifting inci-dent. The Army & Air Force Exchange Service has several av-enues to prevent shoplifting, and supports legislation to recover
stolen merchandise.AAFES Loss Prevention associates
focus on deterring shoplifting by identi-fying areas that tend to have high pil-ferage rates. These areas include elec-tronics, sporting goods and cosmetics.Most AAFES exchanges have sometype of surveillance, whether it is cam-
eras, detectives or both to monitor these areas and try to pre-vent shoplifting before it occurs.
If a customer has passed the opportunity to pay for mer-chandise, loss prevention associates turn the issue to militarypolice. In addition to action pursued by military police, theFederal Claims Collection Act allows AAFES to enact a Civil
Recovery Program, which began March 1, 2002. The flat,administrative cost, applicable to every shoplifting incidence,is $200 and there may be further fees depending on the condi-tion of the recovered stolen merchandise.
“The costs involved in shoplifting affects more than justthe shoplifter,” said AAFES Loss Prevention Vice PresidentDavid Drake. “AAFES has a mission to return dividends toMorale, Welfare and Recreation programs, so it ultimatelyaffects everyone.”
Shoplifting in military exchanges cost service membersmillions of dollars annually. In fact, AAFES detained 9,076shoplifters in 2004 alone.
Civil Recovery allows AAFES to recoup some of the costassociated with shoplifting; however, the damage to a careerand reputation can be irreparable.
Shoplifting is a high-price crime
On Jan. 30, Air Force Reserve Command Inspectorswill arrive to begin a consolidated Unit Compliance In-spection of the 507th Air Refueling Wing and 513th AirControl Group.
UCIs are one of two major inspections that periodi-cally face every Air Force organization, the other in-spection being an Operational Readiness Inspection.
UCIs are conducted roughly every 60 months to as-sess mission areas mandated by law as well as areasidentified by senior leadership that are deemed impor-tant to assess and assure the performance of militaryorganizations.
“Our wing’s focus MUST be on our upcomingUCI,” said Col. Dean Despinoy, 507th ARW commander,during a recent meeting with other key unit officials. “We needto look back and confirm that all of our fixes have stayed inplace for all of our previous UCI write-ups.”
According to inspection officials, the logic behind theinspection process is simple: Unit failure to comply with theestablished directives could result in significant legal liabili-ties, penalties, or significant mission impact.
Inspection officials state it is essential in today’s highOPSTEMPO Air Force to balance mission requirements,such as training exercises, AEF taskings, etc., with inspec-tion requirements, which provide sufficient oversight toprevent significant degradation/non-compliance in key mis-
sion support activities. Officials state that when preparing for a compliance in-
spection, there are several areas to focus on. The first is tolook to the common core inspection checklist which appliesacross-the-board to all functional areas. Next look for anyspecial interest inspection items that may apply to you or yoursection and ensure your processes are in place to address these.Use your self-inspection checklist program to determine if yourspecific area needs attention. To assist your efforts, check theAir Force Reserve Command’s IG web site at https://wwwmil.afrc.af.mil/HQ/IG for additional checklists or infor-mation which may apply.
AFRC IG inspectors use these functional checklists as aguide during compliance inspections. However, officials warn,just because an item is not on the checklist does not mean itwill not be inspected. You are required to comply with all by-law requirements, executive orders, DOD directives, and AirForce, MAJCOM, and local guidance. Ultimately checklistcompliance is still the cornerstone for inspection success.
“The only way any unit can pass this inspection is to usetheir respective checklists. If you have your self inspectionchecklist wired –you’re golden,” said Colonel Despinoy. “I’mlooking for our UCI results to be very good and I’m countingon everyone doing their part to make this a successful inspec-tion.”
UCI: The clock is ticking down
UNIT TRAINING NEWS
PAGE 5OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final
Air War College Nonresident Program The Air War College (AWC) has announced the revision
of its Nonresident Studies course to ensure currency and rel-evancy.
The college will launch the new curriculum in January2006. According to Air War College officials, the nonresi-dent program will continue to emphasize the knowledge,skills and attributes required of all Air Force senior offic-ers as they prepare for leadership positions with institu-tional responsibilities. Officials also said because of struc-tural changes in the design of the course modules, onlyelective credit can be transferred from the existing pro-gram to the revised nonresident program. The core of thecurrent program is not compatible with the revised pro-gram. Officials cautioned that unless potential students needto complete AWC before the fall 2006 promotion boards,students who have not yet enrolled in the AWC nonresidentcourse should wait to enroll in the revised program to takeadvantage of its more relevant and current curriculum. Thecurrent program ends Dec. 1, 2006. To ensure sufficienttime to complete the curriculum by that time, the collegewill not accept new enrollments in the existing programafter Oct. 1, 2005. Officials will post more information asit becomes available on the AWC Nonresident Homepageat http://www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awc-ns.htm.
By Senior Airman Christian Michael
1st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) — There isa way for Airmen to earn their degrees using knowledge gainedfrom work and personal study, while at the same time savingmoney and shortening time spent in classes.
The College Level Examination Program and the Excel-sior examination program are available to servicemembers inpursuit of a college degree.
These programs save students time, money and encom-pass a large variety of courses.
They are in high demand because they can eliminate gen-eral course credits. While military education does cover somegeneral education requirements, it does not cover or is notaccredited in class like English composition, mathematics,natural science, social science, history and humanities.
However, CLEP general exams cover most first-year levelcollege work, according to Rozzie Lovett, the education ser-vices officer at the Langley Education Center here. CLEP sub-ject exams usually cover a wide range and variety of subjectsand fields which can be applied toward higher-level require-ments. The examination program, along with Excelsior ex-ams, also cover subjects that are more specific to degree pro-grams, though they usually do not exceed second-year collegelevel exams.
Except for specialized exams, such as speech, which re-quires a taped impromptu speech, most exams are uniform innature.
“The CLEP general and subject examinations are timedand multiple choice and I usually receive them four to sixweeks after the test date,” said Chief Master Sgt. SharlotteEpps, Chief, Education and Training Office at the 507th ARW,Tinker AFB.
There are so many benefits to taking CLEP exams, shesaid. It saves students and the government money; studentsdon’t have to pay for school time, books, gas or living coststhat can build up while attending school.
Passed exams have saved the government more than$300,000 in the past year in class costs and other fees, Mrs.Lovett said. That does not include how much money studentshave saved paying for the courses.
“It doesn’t cost a dime for military members,” he said, “Ican get college credit toward a degree with information I al-ready know.”
CLEP and Excelsior exams are free for Reserve members,and the CLEP is free for Reserve spouses. On top of the lowcost and convenience, there are great benefits for the CLEP
exams that keep students coming back.“Students can take as many CLEPs as they want in any
period of time,” said Mrs. Lovett. “If they fail one, however,they cannot retake the exact same test for another six months.”
Because of Sergeant Perry’s schedule, his biggest benefitis the time saved by taking test.
“It’s a great benefit for those of us in the military whohave our time spent in so many other directions, because wecan work toward our degree while still doing our duty,” hesaid.
He also pointed out the value of receiving credit for knowl-edge gained and practiced elsewhere.
“Why would I want to take a class in a subject I’m alreadywell-versed in?” Sergeant Perry said. “Because of these tests,I spend less time in class. This frees me up for other classes Ineed.”
According to Sergeant Perry, CLEP subject study booksat the base library can prepare students to take the test.
For more information on military education programs callthe Wing education and training office at 734-7075.
CLEP testing saves money, time, headaches
On-final
PAGE 6 OCTOBER 2005“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
MAINTENANCE NEWS
By Capt. Karen M. Baskin507 AMXS/MOO
Chief Master Sgt. Rod Garrison, 507 AMXS superinten-dent, masterminded the Tool Room Consolidation and subse-quent move following a recent Wing inspection. One of thefindings revealed that more security and control was neededfor the tools and bench stock within the 507th MaintenanceGroup. Chief Garrison said, “Consolidating the tool room issomething we’ve been needing to do for a long time and therecent LCI gave us the final boost to get this done. The long-term plan is to expand the tool room to include the remainingwork centers in the Group, so this will be a work in progresswell into the next fiscal year.”
Tech. Sgt. Ron Todish, 507th AMXS Aircraft SupportFlight Chief, will manage over $2.5 million worth of assets incombined Dash-21 aircraft equipment (rollers, passenger seats,etc.) and the new Consolidated Tool Room and bench stockmerger. The Avionics, Electro-Environmental, and MaintenanceFlight (MXS) tool rooms came together at a more geographi-cally centered location in Hangar 1030, Room 122. The loca-tion is accessible to both the hangar floor area as well as theflightline. Bench stock for the Avionics and Electro-Environ-
mental Shops as well as two APG (Airplane General) flightshas been moved to this location. The tool room has some uniquetechnology! Tools and equipment can be laser-etched withidentification numbers. These numbers are assigned by Mas-ter Sgt. Gilbert Campbell of Quality Assurance. Tool account-ability is greatly simplified and reliable with the use of a hi-
Maintenance squadron consolidates tool rooms
continued on page 7
Bobby Blair works to organize one of the tool binsin the new Consolidated Tool Room in Hangar 1030.
Ron Todish has been responsible for making sureall the tools are moved and accounted for. The ToolAccountability System, in use since January 2005,has been a great help.
tech Tool Accountability System (TAS) which has been in usesince January. TAS can let the shop know which tools arechecked out and to whom. A printout can be made at the endof the day to show where the tools are located at the end of theshift if they are not signed back in. An additional duty for hisflight will be to maintain the squadron’s technical order (TO)account of over 100 TOs for the APG Flights.
The master plan envisions Ron Todish supervising threetraditional reservists (TR) and five full-time Air ReserveTechnicians (ARTs), with two proposed options that willsolve the Swing Shift Tool Room Monitor shortfall. Op-tion one suggests three Dash-21 equipment personnel withcrewchief AFSCs and two Tool Room Material Expediters.Option two suggests five people of the same pay grade with
On-final
PAGE 7OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
UNIT NEWS
Senior Airman Dean Johnson had aserious problem.
While activated and deployed last yearas a heavy equipment operator, AirmanJohnson, a 507th Civil Engineer Squadronheavy equipment operator, had injured hishand in a dump truck accident, causing per-manent damage to one of his fingers.
Upon returning to his civilian employ-ment as a call center consultant, he foundhis injury prevented him from meeting hiscompany’s standard for the key entry ofinformation. This resulted in his being laidoff and told he could not come back untilhe could perform his current position.
Turning to the 507th ARW for help, hemet with the wing IG, Capt. Mark Vardaro,and received information on UniformedServices Employment and ReemploymentRights Act of 1994, USERRA for short.This federal law exists to protect reserv-ists from losing their civilian job or beingdiscriminated against because of theirmembership as a reservist.
On the advice of the IG, AirmanJohnson contacted someone from the Okla-
homa Employer Support of the Guard andReserve Committee (405 228-5811) forhelp. A representative was sent to his em-ployer, only to be told that the company
still did not believe they had to comply withthe law. At that point the state ESGR rep-resentative contacted the local representa-tive for the Department of Labor. One ofDOL’s jobs is to enforce federal labor lawsand consult civilian companies when those
Federal Law protects unit reservist’s employmentlaws are being violated.
After meeting with the DOL represen-tative, Airman Johnson was reemployedby his company. While still physicallyunable to meet the standards of datakey entry because of his injury, hiscompany employed him in a new posi-tion of similar pay with equal oppor-tunity for advancement in accordancewith the law. His back wages wererestored and no further actions will occuragainst him.
“It was a very daunting experience tothink I no longer had a civilian job,” Air-man Johnson said. “I didn’t know if theOklahoma ESGR or DOL representa-tive would be able to help me. Butthey did. The DOL helped get me rein-stated and got me my back pay in ad-dition to instructing the company toplace me in another position that Icould perform. I now know the pro-cess can work. Every reservist needsto be aware that there are people outthere willing to help you if you everhave a problem like I had.”
Senior Airman Dean Johnson
Maint. squadron consolidates tool rooms
continued from page 6
Jimmy Thompson, right, works to organize theFlightline Tool Bin located in the new tool room.
the crewchief AFSC who will rotate regularly and shareTool Room and Dash-21 responsibilities. There are pro-motion expectations with all the new responsibilities, andRon anticipates that everything will be in its place by theDecember 2005 UTA.
Ron’s greatest challenges during and after the move arepersonnel shortfalls and training. Currently, there are twopeople detailed from 507th AMXS to organize the shop:Tech. Sgt. Jimmy Thompson and Senior Airman BobbyBlair. Both are maintenance ARTs. Ron says, “They’re do-ing a knock-out job for me!” Maintenance Flight ChiefSenior Master Sgt. Ron Mitchell has selected Senior Air-man T.J. Milliken from a pool of 11 ARTs to begin 30-dayrotations; one person at a time as support from the 507th MXS.
PAGE 8 OCTOBER 2005
On-final513TH AIR CONTROL GROUP
The 513th ACG 10th Anniversary Celebration will beheld on the September 2006 UTA.
The logo shown below is the offical logo for the celebra-tion. It will be put on T-shirts, caps, coins, mugs, patches,etc., all for sale to raise money for the event.
This patch has been approved for wear in lieu of the squad-ron patch for the next year.
A website is being established to handle registration aswell as communicate information, so more to come.
Mark your calendars now
First, I want thank Colonel Phillips for the opportunity hehas given me to be a part of this unit.
Secondly, I want everyone to know that I will do the best Ican to keep the ship upright and try not to sink it.
I guess you are wondering what I am trying to get across toyou. Let me start by saying in my two months here I havegotten to know everyone a lot better and this unit is no differ-ent than any other unit I have been in. Now, I know I havepeeked your interest! What I am attempting to say is that ev-eryone is ready when called upon to do their duty and showthe rest of the Command that we are the Best! The Outstand-ing in the Aircrew Standardization Evaluation (ASEV) provedthat! Some people think the grass is greener on the other sideof base or at a entirely different base or even better on theoutside. Trust me it is not. These are the days, not “those werethe days,” and each person should treat each day with enthusi-asm and eagerness to do their best at all endeavours big orsmall. Too corny? Maybe! Or maybe not. Every unit I havebeen in I have tried to treat as my home and I would expect,no, I request that you do the same.
These next lines are Baby Tuck’s view on life in the AirForce!
The title of this article sounds like something out of a Su-perman movie, but that is how I see things.
Truth: In order to make sense of chaos there has to betruth and honesty. I am not saying that it does not exist now inthe 970th AACS, but I am guaranteeing that I will be truthfulto everyone and I expect the same thing in return. That wayeverything you hear from me is the truth as far as I know it. Iam not saying I am the smartest person in the world, far fromit, but I do have experiences that I can relate to a lot of issuesthat have and will come up in the future. We have all seenexamples of great leadership, good leadership and bad leader-ship. If you haven’t, hang around long enough and you willsee one of the above three.
Justice: Everyone will be treated as fairly as is humanlypossible. So what do I really mean? Everyone gets treatedfairly and vice versa. How many times have you said that’sjust not right or fair or used other words which I cannot put onpaper? I am sure a few times or maybe all the time! I don’twant that to happen here. If you have a problem or concernabout something, go to your supervisor. If he can’t help, cometo one of the Assistant DOs or myself and we will work outany problems/concerns one way or another. Yes, I do have an
open-door policy! On the same breath of air, NO, I do nothave an open-whining policy. Let me re-emphasize that if youhave a problem/concern, don’t just sit back and let it festerup. Talk to someone about it but don’t just complain, have asolution or idea of how the problem/concern can go away.Going to the IG is not necessarily the first step one needs todo to resolve things; however, to be politically correct, it is anoption.
American way: Before I get to this last point I want all ofyou to remember that these are Baby Tuck’s views/techniquesand they are not to be construed as procedures. How manytimes have you heard of someone suing another person or com-pany for not having the lid on their coffee cup or not having anote on the toy about if swallowed could cause harm?
Get a grip! That may be the new American way but notmine.People need to take responsibility for their actions, deedsor faults. Quit blaming other folks for their own mistakes orbuffoonery. Honesty plays a big part in my life and I am sureit does in your own. We do not tolerate liars, cheats and thieves.I am sure they are out there, but that does not make it right.There is one thing you can take to the bank: I will be honest toa fault. You may not like some of the things I say or do and Iam sure some of you don’t, but that’s what you have inherited.Will I be here that long? Maybe not, but while I am here, whenyou walk in to talk to me or I come see you, rest assured youknow that I am shooting it straight with you and that my friendis the AMERICAN WAY!
By Lt. Col. Michael “Babytuck” Tucker
970th AACS
Director of Operation’s Column
Truth, Justice and the American Way
TRAINING PLANNER A1TRAINING PLANNER A1
HOT TOPICS : CDC Testing is accomplished at 0750on Sundays of the (main) UTA. You donot have to schedule it, just be there NLT0750 at Bldg 460 (the active duty HQ),Room 215. You need to enter throughthe MPF main door ( in the back near theramps), turn right and take the stairs. Ifyou cannot make it, our Education officealso tests on Wednesdays at 0800 and1300. You DO need to schedule this one24 hours in advance. Important note: Ifyou are retaking a test, make sure youbring the Commander's evaluation/authorization letter with you or you willnot be allowed to test.If you are taking computer-based tests, callDPMT at 734-7075 at least two days priorto the UTA. Computer-based tests are alsogiven Tues at 0800, Wed at 0800 & 1300,and Thurs at 1300. Call for appointment.
EDUCATION REMINDER:This is just to remind everyone who
wishes to update their Education Records,officer and enlisted, that we needOFFICIAL transcripts to send oraccomplish any updates. This means thatit CANNOT say "ISSUED TOSTUDENT." You may have the college/university send it, we can request it, oryou may bring it in as long as it is in asealed envelope with a SEAL on the flapAND it does not say "ISSUED TOSTUDENT."
Pass and ID Hours of Operation:1200-1600 on Saturdays of the UTA. IEU open from 1200-1500 on Saturdayof the main UTA. Nomination packages for AMN, NCO,or SNCO of the quarter are submittedquarterly. Packages are due by 1400, onSaturday of the UTA after the end of thequarter. (Apr, Jul, Oct, Jan)
FY2006 UTA SCHEDULE
01-02 Oct 05 05-06 Nov 05 03-04 Dec 05 07-08 Jan 06
04-05 Feb 06 04-05 Mar 06 01-02 Apr 06 06-07 May 06 03-04 June 06 08-09 July 06 05-06 Aug 06 09-10 Sept 06
As of Sept. 22, 2005
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FREE COLLEGE TESTINGAir Force Reserve members, spouses and civilian employees may take DANTESSubject Standardized Tests (DSSTs) or College-Level Examinations Program(CLEP) or Excelsior College Examinations (ECE) FREE! (Military Only forExcelsior examinations). These examinations test college-level knowledge you mayhave gained through your job, reading, travel, or hobbies. You must test at yourReserve DANTES approved test center. Testing at another DANTES test centerwill be on a case-by-case basis. The third Tuesday of each month at 0800 has beenset aside for testing. You must call us four weeks prior to test date to ensure we willhave your test. For more information contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Eppsin the MPF Education and Training Office at 734-7075.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONBecome a certified professional in a field related to your military training.DANTES and AFRC funded certification examinations are available for certaincareer fields. Go to http://www.dantes.doded.mil and click on certification pro-grams, MOS matching and USAF Matrix which identifies the eligible AFSCs,certification exams available and internet addresses for more info. If you desire totake an exam, contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Epps in the MPF EducationandTraining Office at 734-7075.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUITION ASSISTANCEReserve members are eligible to apply for TA for Distance Learning and In-Residence courses to further their education up to a Master's Degree. The basic enrollment requirements are that you must: Be a participating member in good standing (no UIF, Article 15, etc.). Retainability: Officers - two years; Enlisted - ETS after course completion. Enrollment form must show course number/title, credit hours and cost of tuition.Complete TA forms in our office PRIOR to class start date.HQ AFRC will approve/disapprove based on funding.Payment occurs after satisfactory course completion. TA reimbursement amountsare set at 75 percent ($3500) per FY (Masters) or 100 percent ($4500) per FY(Bachelors). For more information contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Eppsin the MPF Education and Training Office at 734-7075.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFRC NCO LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COURSEThe succcess of the Air Force Reserve NCO corps depends on their ability to applyleadership and management skills learned primarily in a civilian setting to a militaryenvironment. Not all of today’s mid-level NCOs have extensive first-hand supervi-sory experience in a reserve environment; therefore, the instruction in this course isintended to improve the students’ military supervisor capabilities and understandingof their positions as related to the USAFR. We focus on individual improvement whichis ultimately the real source of organizational excellence and success. See your unittraining manager for more information. NEXT CLASS: Oct. 24 - Nov. 4, 2005.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FAMILY CAREIf you need to be on the Family Care Plan, notify your first sergeant ASAP - IAWAFI 36-2908. Single parents and dual military couples with children must have aFamily Care Plan completed within 90 days of in-processing or family statuschange. VIRTUAL MPF1. Address Changes - You no longer have to go to 4 different screens/areas toupdate your address!!!2. Point Summarys - Point Summarys can also be viewed and printed.3. Record Review RIPS - You will now be notified via e-mail, on your birthday, tolog on to vMPF to review your RIP.4. Awards and decorations - You can also get a picture display of your awards anddecorations.
OCTOBER TRAINING PLANNERA2
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TRAINING PLANNER A3
Editor: Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte A. Epps, Chief, Education & Training (ART)Assistant Editors: Master Sgt. Sharon Lochman, Asst. Chief, Education & Training (ART)
Gloria Dippi, Office Automation ClerkContributing Editors: Tech. Sgt. Chris Rogers, Education and Training Advisor
Tech. Sgt. Jimmy Talley, Education and Training AdvisorStaff Sgt. Jeremy Hudson, Education and Training Advisor (ART)Ms. Kimberley Silkwood, Testing and Education Advisor
If you need assistance or have suggestions on how we can improve our service to you, please call us at (405) 734-7075, or stop by our office in Building 1043, Room 213.
Ethics Briefing:All reserve personnel are required tohave the DOD Ethics Briefing within 90days of reporting for duty. This briefingis held in conjunction with the UCMJbriefing during Phase II of the monthlyNewcomers Ancillary Training at 0830on Sunday of the UTA in Bldg 1030,Room 214.
UCMJ Briefing:All enlisted personnel are required to havethe UCMJ briefing within two UTAs of theirfirst reenlistment. This briefing is heldduring Phase II of the monthlyNewcomers Ancillary Training at 0830 onSunday of the UTA in Bldg 1030, Room214.
Newcomers Ancillary Training
BAQ RecertificationDeadlines
If Last Then ForwardRecertifica-Digit of Listing to Unit tion dueinSSAN is: Commander in: by endof
month in:
1 November January
2 December February
3 January March
4 February April
5 March May
6 April June
7 May July
8 June August
9 July September
0 August October
Disaster Preparedness:Unit Training Managers must scheduleChemical Warfare Training, by name, atleast one UTA prior to the requesteddates by calling CEX at 734-5249. Allpersonnel must bring a complete trainingground crew ensemble (GCE) includingthe mask and its hood to all classes.Those attending Initial must be preparedto process through a tear agent chamber.Wear of contacts is prohibited in allclasses. Anyone arriving late, without acomplete GCE with mask, or wearingcontacts, will be released back to theirunit and reported as a no-show.Drug Testing: You must reportwithin two hours of notification.
OCCUPATIONAL SURVEYSThese surveys provide information essential for developing personnel programs,classifying occupations, and developing trainning programs. The Wing Survey ControlMonitor (SCM) works with the Unit Training Manager (UTM) to ensure surveys arecompleted. AFI 36-2623, paragraph 2.7 makes completion of these surveys mandatoryfor all Air Force Reserve members. It is extremely important these surveys arecompleted by the suspense date. If you have any questions, contact Staff Sgt. JeremyHudson at 734-7075 or your UTM.
Military PayFile for Receive Directpay by: Deposit by:
Military Pay (405) 734-5016
04 Oct 12 Oct
06 Oct 14 Oct
11 Oct 17 Oct
13 Oct 21 Oct
18 Oct 26 Oct
20 Oct 28 Oct
24 Oct 01 Nov
27 Oct 04 Nov
01 Nov 08 Nov
03 Nov 10 Nov
08 Nov 15 Nov
Newcomers Ancillary Training Phase I & II are conducted monthly in Bldg 1030,Room 214. Unit training managers are responsible for ensuring their new per-sonnel are scheduled to attend within 90 days of their first UTA. If you have anyquestions, contact the MPF Education & Training Office at 734-7075.Day Time Subject OPR
Phase ISaturday 1300-1315 Air Force Fitness SVFSaturday 1315-1400 Information Assurance CFSaturday 1400-1500 Drug and Alcohol, Suicide/
Workplace Violence Prevention SGSaturday 1500-1530 Local Conditions-Traffic SESaturday 1530-1600 OPSEC Training OG
Phase IISunday 0800-0815 Base Populace CEXSunday 0815-0830 IG Briefing IGSunday 0830-1000 UCMJ/Ethics JASunday 1000-1030 Counter Intel/Awareness SFSunday 1030-1100 Human Relations MESunday 1230-1545 First Duty Station ME
A4
HURRICANE KATRINA NEWS
By Louis A. Arana-Barradas Air Force Print News
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. — Training infive key career fields restarts for 400 Airmen here Sept. 19,six months sooner than base officials forecasted more than aweek ago.
Then, more students will start training the following week,said Col. Jessie Canaday, 81st Training Group commander.And more students will gradually enter training each weekafter that as this base continues to recover from the poundingit took from Hurricane Katrina.
Air Force officials determined what training would startbased on the service’s critical needs, said the colonel, com-mander of the Air Force’s largest training group.
“We’re taking our lead from our major command to tell uswhich ones are critical, that we need to get trained now,” shesaid. “But basically, we can stand up most of the initial skillstraining we did here, for now.”
The Air Education and Training Command base providestechnical training for Airmen in almost 30 Air Forces spe-cialties. And its instructors teach more than 500 supplemen-tal courses such as upgrade training and professional mili-tary education.
The first technical training classes to go back on line arethe electronic principles, aircrew training, air traffic control,weather and basic instructor courses, the colonel said.
Colonel Canaday said on Sept. 26 the group will stand up
the financial management, personnel, information manage-ment, computer maintenance, technical control and groundradio control courses.
The first 400 students to re-enter training are the volun-teers who stayed at the base to help with the massive cleanupeffort that still continues.
On Sept. 16, 350 more students will arrive — maybe part ofthe group evacuated from the base after the storm. Initially, thesestudents will join the base cleanup effort and then enter trainingin groups of 150 each week, the colonel said.
Also, on Sept. 19, students started arriving via the normaltechnical training pipeline from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
“We hope to take as many as 150 each Monday as webring more training on line,” said Colonel Canaday, who isfrom New Castle, Wyo.
Keesler turnaround
Training starts six months ahead of schedule
continued on Page 9
Fire department officials examine the charred rubbleof the home belonging to Col. Bruce Bush, 81stMission Support Group commander, Keesler AirForce Base, Sept. 1. The house exploded duringHurricane Katrina. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jennifer C. Wallis)
Five individuals from the 35th CombatCommunications Squadron, including Lt. Col. PetePeterson, the commander, were stranded at KeeslerAFB when Hurricane Katrina struck. Three of themare pictured here: Tech. Sgt. Randy Western, SeniorAirman Sakeenah Jones and Senior AirmanReynaldo Ramos. According to Colonel Peterson,everyone was required to shelter at Keesler and hedescribed the hurricane passing over as soundinglike a pot of boiling water. Western said it soundedlike a train passing by. Ramos described the sceneas they were assessing vehicles for damage. “Waterwas coming out of the tailpipes when people triedto start their cars; one even had a fish come out ofit,” he stated. All five spent nights sleeping on thefloor and days without shower and no hot food.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Graham
PAGE 9OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-finalHURRICANE KATRINA NEWS
Airman Basic Kirk Riley did not getto start his four-month long air trafficcontrol course before the hurricane hit.So he volunteered to stay and help withrecovery efforts because it was the rightthing to do.
But after two weeks on the cleanupcrew, he is ready for the classroom.
“It’s really great that training isstarting again,” said the 18-year-oldAirman from Morgantown, W.V. “Iwant to finish my training so I can geton with my Air Force career.”
Hundreds of other Airmen might besaying the same thing. Colonel Canadaysaid the Air Force has not decided ifthe 1,100 students evacuated toSheppard AFB, Texas, after the stormwill return for training here or retraininto new career fields. Some troops havealready received their Air Force spe-cialty because they were within days ofgraduation.
One alternative the Air Force is con-sidering is sending Keesler instructorsto Sheppard to allow the Airmen to fin-ish their training there. But the colonelsaid the students might return to Keeslerto finish training.
“Right now we’re still discussing allthat,” she said.
What officials do know is that thesupplemental training done on the base ison hold for at least 90 days. These course— 60 percent which students attend whileon temporary duty status — can last fromone week to a month. But starting thattraining is not possible now.
“We just don’t have the facilities tobring in TDY students at this time,” thecolonel said.
Billeting spaces are at a premiumhere. The base is housing Airmen andtheir families that lost their homes tothe hurricane in dormitories. And hun-dreds of local, state and federal work-ers staging relief operations from
Keesler partly fill the massive dormitorywhere students normally live. Before thesupplemental training can resume, allthose people must move out.
“So our supplemental training willprobably not be reconstituted for maybeup to 90 days — I’m thinking after thefirst of the year,” Colonel Canaday said.
The group is eager to get back to busi-ness, the colonel said. But it lost three ofits 18 training facilities to the storm. Ofthose that survived, 17 need repairs to getback on line. The colonel said most of thedamage is to roofs. But because it has notrained since the hurricane, that has allowedrepair crews to put temporary roofs on thedamaged buildings.
The one building the hurricane didnot damage, Vosler Hall, now houses thegroup’s headquarters and that of themission support group and training sup-port squadron. Airmen are working tohave it ready for the start of classes.
We’re just trying to get back to anormal routine, said Master Sgt. LaurieJackson, the group’s information man-agement superintendent. She said ready-ing to train students is the top priority.
But getting back into a training moodmight take more than just having stu-dents and buildings. It is just as impor-tant to get people’s attitudes back intowork mode, said the sergeant fromCochranton, Pa.
“They’re sidetracked by all the stuffgoing on outside,” she said. From 35 to50 percent of group workers lost theirhomes to the storm.
But Colonel Canaday said people atKeesler are adjusting more each day.
Many have come to terms with theirlosses and have filed for insurance com-pensation. Most have also settled intonew places to live, though in some casestemporarily. Others have sent their fami-lies elsewhere until they can send forthem.
The quicker-than-expected recovery
continued ... Keesler training ahead of schedulecontinued from Page A4
Senior Master Sgt. David Hufton,his wife, Robin, their two sons,Dawson, 2, and Iain, 5 months,and their dog, Angus, live at ahotel close to Dobbins Air ReserveBase. Hufton is a Reserveintelligence analyst with the 403rdWing at Keesler AFB, and had onlybeen in his house less than amonth when it was destroyed byHurricane Katrina. (U.S. Air Force photoby Bo Joyner)
of areas outside the base is also bring-ing most of the base on line. Each day,the base quality of life continues to im-prove. Slowly, things are returning tonormal. People are adjusting and mov-ing on, she said.
The hurricane might have damagedKeesler, but it did not break it, the colo-nel said. People are willing and ableto bring the base’s vital mission backon line.
“We need to get back to work,” shesaid. “It is important for the people andfor the Air Force that the group to getback on line — to get people thinking ofthat. And then we will give people timeoff to go continue reconstituting theirlife.”
NEWS TO USE
HURRICANE KATRINA NEWS
PAGE 10 OCTOBER 2005“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
Senior Airman Stephanie Heath, a Services technician from the507th Air Refueling Wing, has joined with 24 other Air Force Reserv-ists deployed to Keesler AFB, Miss.
The Services reservists started deploying there during the firstweek of September to provide food service and field lodging supportin the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“Twenty of our people are to work in food service, and theothers are to do field lodging,” said Chief Master Sgt. VonPutman, chief of services readiness at Headquarters Air ForceReserve Command.
Ten of the reservists are from Niagara Falls InternationalAirport Air Reserve Station, N.Y., and nine are from SelfridgeAir National Guard Base, Mich. Another four are from Home-stead Air Reserve Base, Fla., and another member of the teamfrom Beale AFB, Calif., is slated to arrive during the second weekof September.
A Blanchard, Oklahoma native and Blanchard HighSchool graduate, Airman Heath said she was notified shewas needed on Sept. 2. In civilian life she works as a Wal-Mart portrait studio photographer in the Oklahoma CityMetro area. “I don’t know exactly what they need me todo yet, but I’m excited at the opportunity to help,” she said.
“We received word that Airman Heath was helping with thecleanup activities, tearing down walls, etc.,” said Senior Mas-ter Sgt. Terry Tunender, 507th Services technician.
Services reservists deploy to support hurricane relief
Senior Airman Stephanie Heath, shown during adeployment in 2004 to Lakenheath, England, iscurrently deployed to Keesler AFB, Miss., helpingwith cleanup activities after Hurricane Katrina.
By Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch507th ARW Public Affairs
Various members of the militarycommunity gathered Saturday, Sept.17, at the Sunrise Park Apartments,here in Oklahoma City. Some hadbrooms, mops, vacuum cleaners,
Takesha Will iams, mastersergeant and first sergeant forthe 507th Operations Group,helps to sort clothing. Wiliams ispresident of the Reserve EAC.
Tinker members help the Katrina effort
From the front cover:Courtney Penn, staffsergeant with the 507thMXS and vice president ofthe Tinker Reserve EnlistedAdvisory Council, sortsthrough donated items atthe Sunrise ParkApartments.
cleaning rags, while others hadmuscles to carry heavy appliances. Allwere volunteers who had answered thecall from local community leaders whohad asked for help to prepare apart-ments for displaced Katrina victims.
Lots of clothing and bedding hadbeen donated and needed to be sortedand organized for families who neededthe items.
Volunteers mowed grass, cleanedkitchen cabinets and tile floors and vacu-umed carpets.
Ruth Cain, City Councilwoman forMidwest City, first sent out the call forhelp on Sept. 8th, a week and a halfafter Hurricane Katrina took its toll onthe southern part of the United States.
Continued on Page 11
PAGE11
OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
NEWS TO USE
NEWS TO USEHURRICANE KATRINA NEWS
Neika Jones and Kiarrah Dixon, staff sergeants with the 970th AACS,sort through clothes and bedding donated to Katrina victims at theSunrise Park Apartments. Jones is secretary for the EAC.
Kimberly Thompson, captain with the 970th AACS, scrubs a toilet asshe volunteers her time on Sept. 17th. Photos by Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch
Alyson Vanness, staff sergeantwith the 970th AACS, takes a quickbreak from mopping a bathroom.
By this time authorities decided it wasunsafe for residents to stay in the areasaround the flooded cities, so the victimsstarted heading north. More than 50families have settled into the apartmentcomplex, with a few more arriving dailyfrom the Camp Gruber complex.
“Our desire is to make the familiesfeel welcome and hope they will makethe greater Oklahoma City area their newhome if they are unable to return to theirhomes,” said Councilwoman Cain. “Wein Oklahoma have wanted to help andare glad to be able to be good neighborsin this project,” continued Council-woman Cain.
The need is still there to prepare theapartments for new residents. If youhave items to donate or would like tohelp out in any way, contact the Sun-rise Park Apartments at 672-0758 orjust show up at SE Grand and twoblocks south of SE 15th.
Continued from Page 10
On-final
PAGE 12 OCTOBER 2005“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
UNIT NEWS
News from ‘the shirt’
Roles and responsibilities of a first sergeantA few months ago, your first ser-
geants were asked to write an article forthe On-final each month. And, as withall taskings, we accepted the challenge.So, for the next 12 months, a first ser-geant will write an article on any topicof his/herchoice. I chose to write aboutthe role and responsibilities of a first ser-geant because I did not meet a selectionboard nor attended the formal school tobecome a first sergeant. I was assignedthe additional duty of first sergeant whichI take very seriously.
Wanting to do a great job in serv-ing my commander and unit, I grabbedthe current instruction, AFI 36-2113,“The First Sergeant” and set out tolearn my new role and responsibilities.The first sergeant is responsible forproviding sound advice to the com-mander on a wide range of topics in-cluding the health, esprit de corps, dis-
Master Sgt. Norma Foster 507th Communications Flight
cipline, mentoring, well being, careerprogression, recognition, and profes-sional development of all assigned en-listed personnel. We exercise generalsupervision over assigned enlisted per-sonnel and are the focal point withinthe unit for all matters concerning en-listed members. In addition to respon-sibilities and obligations at the unitlevel, first sergeants work closely withthe command chief master sergeant inpreparing the enlisted force in execut-ing the wing mission. But most impor-tant, in today’s rapidly deployable AirForce, the first sergeant serves as thecritical link in providing the com-mander a mission-ready enlisted force.
WOW! Sounds like a big job! It is!But in my few months of being a firstsergeant, I asked myself, “Why hadn’t Itried to become a first sergeant sooner?”It has been a rewarding experience and
has rekindled my own esprit de corps andbelief of integrity first, service before self,and excellence in all we do!
I highly recommend, if in your AirForce Reserve career, you have the op-portunity to become a first sergeant,JUST DO IT!!!!!
Master Sgt. Kenny Mars is all smiles after he receivedthe American Flag from the base Honor Guard. Hewas also presented a box of toothpicks.
Mars retires after 25+years military service
Master Sgt. Kenneth Mars, transportation superinten-dent with the 507th Logistics Readiness Squadron, retiredduring the September UTA.
Mars joined the Air Force in 1979 and served sixyears on active duty before joining the Reserve andworking in the 507th Tactical Fighter Wing in 1985.
While on act ive duty, Mars was s ta t ioned inSembach, Germany as a special equipment mechanic andassigned at Tinker AFB to the 6th Weather Squadron asa special mechanic and he helped fill in making weatherobservations.
Mars served several times for Operation Joint Endeavorat Istris AB, France where he was tasked as NCOIC ofvehicle maintenance. He also worked on the special ve-hicles required for the U-2 aircraft. He was activated Oc-tober 2003 for Operation Iraqi Freedom and served threemonths in Kuwait for the 332nd Expeditionary LogisticsReadiness Squadron. While there he helped with the clo-sure of Al Jaber Air Base, and participated in several RedTail Convoys into Iraq.
On-finalFIT TO FIGHT
PAGE13
OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
By Tech. Sgt. Jane Ward513th OSF/XP
In the last decade, Oklahoma City has undergone manypositive changes in the downtown area due to the MAPSProjects (Metropolitan Area Projects). Even the name of theNorth Canadian River has been changed to the “OklahomaRiver” between Byers and Meridian Avenues. One very excit-ing addition, which is currently under construction on theOklahoma River, is the $2,000,000 Chesapeake Energy Boat-house. Coincidentally, one of the officers in the 513th Opera-tions Support Flight, Capt. Dione Sturd, is predicted to be anenthusiastic patron of the boathouse from time to time uponits completion. Captain Sturd has found a very interesting andenjoyable way to alter the typical “Fit to Fight” exercise regi-men. She is an avid rower and has been so for the past fiveyears. Currently she is a member of the Tulsa Rowing Club.Her interest in rowing began in college when a few of herROTC friends were crew team members (sweep rowing) ather school. The camaraderie and teamwork displayed by herfriends drew her attention to the sport. There are two types ofrowing. Captain Sturd has participated in both. The first typeof rowing is called sculling which involves the rower usingtwo oars. The other is sweep rowing, requiring only one oarand the rower has a team member who rows in conjunctionwith them. As a member of the Tulsa Rowing Club, Captain
Sturd has served in the position of Club Membership Coordi-nator for the last three years. She single handedly coordinatesall logistics for the Club’s, “Tulsa Sprints – Regatta,” heldeach June. Over 110 rowing athletes from Oklahoma and sur-rounding states participate in the race event. Captain Sturdprepares the Regatta’s event schedule based on age of partici-pants in the race, which normally spans from 15 to 55 years ofage. Race events are additionally divided by type of boat:singles, doubles and quads. She is also responsible for arrang-ing for all the food, drinks, referees, trophies, medals, andWater Rescue Squads for the Regatta.
In July 2005, Captain Sturd participated in a very special
rowing event in Edmonton Alberta Province, Canada at theWorld Masters Games. Rowing is only one of 27 sportingevents at the Games which are held every four years. Over1,100 rowers representing more than 55 countries took partthis summer along with Captain Sturd. Participants are notrowers with just a casual interest. They are very serious row-ers and must apply to be accepted to the ranks of World Mas-ters competition. In order to participate, Captain Sturd madeapplication to the Games almost six months earlier. Qualifica-tions required in the application included the length of timeshe had been a rower, what races she had participated in andwhat her standing was in each race. Based on her past perfor-mance rankings and participation in rowing events, she wasaccepted to the Games. For the World Masters Games, row-ing lane assignments and a rower’s “heat” (the appointed timeto race) are determined by random drawings. A team racesthree heats in a day. Each heat is a 1,000 meters distance.Initially one qualifies in a Preliminary heat. The top four fi-nalists out of eight teams went on to the Semi-Final race. Simi-larly, the top four from the Semi-Finals went on to the Finals.Captain Sturd rowed in the doubles competition with her row-ing partner, Terry Bridges from the Tulsa Rowing Club. Sheand her doubles team-mate finished 5th place out of the total32 teams in their category, “Women’s ‘B’ Double Sculls” (twooars each rower).
Captain Sturd said she finds rowing a very fun and moti-vational sport; a full-body workout, yet low impact on joints.She enjoys going to the various venues in which the rowingcompetitions are held, such as her recent Canadian journey.Rowing is a sport for all ages and a great way to add diversityto keep in shape for “Fit to Fight.” For more information onrowing in the Oklahoma City area, contact the Oklahoma As-sociation for Rowing at http://www.oklahomarowing.org orin the Tulsa area contact the Tulsa Rowing Club at http://www.tulsarowingclub.org. Rowing is the oldest intercollegiatesport. And remember a popular saying among rowers: “Row-ers row- Everyone else plays games.”
Enthusiastically staying Fit to Fight
Capt. Dione Sturd, left, and her rowing partner Terry Bridges, are rowing enthusiasts.
PAGE 14 OCTOBER 2005“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final UPCLOSE
By Tech. Sgt. Ty Yoshida
The following question was asked of members of the 507th ARW and 513thACG:“Have you experienced any positive changes sinceimplementation of Fit to Fight?”
Tech. Sgt. Ade Martin507th LRS
“I have experienced a significantchange in physical fitness due toFit to Fight. It has also boosted
my self-esteem and confidence inmy abilities.
Senior Airman Jonathon Arb513th MXS
“My sedentary behaviors havelessened, resulting in a feeling of well
being and overall esteem improve-ment.”
Senior Airman Gregory Miller507th CES
“The Fit to Fight Program hasdriven me to improve in many areas.
I now have more energy thanbefore.”
Staff Sgt. Demetrius Nichols507th CES“It has made me more motivated towork out on my own and in the futureit will open opportunities for me to getpromoted!”
Senior Airman Chatisha Tilley507th CLSS
“Fit to Fight has been a positive move notonly for me but also for people I work with.When has it ever been bad for you to work
out? NEVER!”
SeniorAirman Nick
Hoover513th MXS
“I’m just as fitas I ever was.Maybe it willmotivate our
overweighttroops.”
PAGE 15 OCTOBER 2005 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-finalNEWS TO USE
Brenda PryorSecretary
Duties: Secretarial duties forthe 507th OG office.
Length of employment withthe 507th ARW:5 years this month
Personal Hobbies:I love to read when I havetime. I like to go to the laketo go boating or fishing, buthaven’t done it in a while. Ienjoy all kinds of sports. Iplayed softball as a kid andplayed indoor soccer as anadult. I’ve also done somehome remodeling on myhouse.
If you could have dinner withanyone of influence, whowould it be and why? I’d have to say the oneperson I’d enjoy talking and
Civilian Spotlight
Something unique aboutyou that people may notknow:I have two sons: Ben is 22and Danny is 19. Ben is asenior at OSU; he will begraduating with a doublemajor in spring 2006. Hismajors are Political Scienceand Philosophy. Danny leftSept. 20 for Air Force basictraining. He is going active-duty and is going intoAircraft Maintenance. I’mvery proud of both of mysons, they have done well.I ’ve also gone back toschool this fall; I’m taking6 hours in computerclasses.
being with again would be mydad. He’s always been a biginfluence in my life. He diedin 1995 and I’d love to be ableto sit down and let him knowall the changes since thenwith the kids and myself, andbe able to just visit with him
as I used to and hear hisadvice again. He was agood guy!
the IG says ....Roles of the IG in Relation to the Commander:
1. Be the “eyes and ears” of the commander.2. Keep the commander informed of potential
areas of concern.3. Function as the ombudsman, fact-finder,
and honest broker in the resolution ofcomplaints.
4. Educate and train commanders andmembers of the base population on theirrights and responsibilities in regard to theAir Force IG system.
5. Help commanders prevent, detect, andcorrect fraud, waste and abuse, andmismanagement.If you have any questions or concerns please
contact Capt Mark Vardaro at: 405-556-1745; Toll Free:877-225-5928; or email: [email protected]
The 507th Air Refueling Wing announces the 8th AnnualBilly Hughes Award Banquet, which will take place Nov. 5that the Tinker Club.
The Billy Hughes Memorial Award for Exemplary En-listed Service is presented annually to the enlisted member ofthe 507th Air Refueling Wing whose duty performance andeveryday conduct have best exemplified the United StatesAir Force core values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self,and Excellence in All We Do.”
This year’s banquet is sponsored by the Tinker AFB Re-serve Top 3. Refreshments are available at 6 p.m., dinnerfollows at 7 p.m. Tickets are $17 for club members or $19otherwise, and uniform is mess dress or semi-formal dress.See your First Sergeant for seating arrangements. If you wishto sit with a specific group, submit all reservations and mon-ies at the same time.
There are 20 individuals vying this year for the award.
There’s still time to attendthe Billy Hughes Banquet
PAGE 16 OCTOBER 2005“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
Midwest City, OKTech. Sgt. Carla Lang(405) 733-9403
Tinker AFB, OK(In-Service Recruiter)Master Sgt. Nathan Bickle(405) 739-2980
Tulsa, OKTech. Sgt. Richard D. Kozik(918) 665-2300
McConnell AFB, KSMaster Sgt. David McCormick(In-Service Recruiter)(316) 681-2522
Lawton, OKTech. Sgt. Michael Comfort(580) 357-2784
Moore, Norman, OKMaster Sgt. Gene Higgins(405) 217-8311
Vance AFB, OKMaster Sgt. David McCormick(316) 759-3766
507th ARW Recruiters
R-News
507th ARWand
513th ACG
NEWS / INFORMATION / FAMILY READINESS
TINKER AFBOKLAHOMA
www.afrc.af.mil/507arw
Tinker Honor Guardlooking for new members
A new option is being offered to allowthose interested in joining the Tinker AirForce Base Honor Guard to join as soonas they are ready.
A regular training class will be heldOct. 3-7 in Building 244 from 8 a.m. to4:30 p.m. and a two-day individualizedtraining session will be available for any-one unable to make the week of train-ing.
If you are a sharp Airman, NCO,SNCO, or Officer who would like to be-come a part of this elite team of volun-teers providing military funeral honorsfor our veterans, retirees and fallen ac-tive-duty personnel, as well as postingthe colors and providing flag-fold cer-emonies for numerous functions aroundthe base and community, this message isfor you.
Contact Senior Airman Dana Bazileat [email protected] or call 734-
Air Force Reserveassists Army reservists
The 507th Medical Squadron immunization clinic sup-ported the 353rd Army Engineering Group from OklahomaCity on Saturday, Sept. 10, with immunizations at the BaseHospital. The reservists are preparing themselves for a de-ployment to the Gulf Coast region to help with the Katrinarelief. According to Col. Steven Gentling, 507th MedicalSquadron commander, the base medical squadron, 72 MDG,provided the medical supplies/vaccines and the reservists areproviding the manpower for this project. At right, SpecialistAngel Hicks, an administration specialist from Del City,Okla., with the 353rd Army Engineering Group, receives ashot from Tech Sgt. Dena Hale. Hale is a medical servicetechnician with the 507th Medical Squadron and NCOIC ofSelf Aid and Buddy Care.
Parting Shot
With the holidays approaching, thou-sands of Americans are again askingwhat they can do to show their supportfor servicemembers, especially thoseserving overseas in this time of war.
As you can see at the link below, theDOD policy has not changed from lastyear on sending mail/donations to ourtroops. The link shows various Web sitesof several organizations that are spon-soring programs for members of theArmed Forces overseas.
While it would be inappropriate forthe Department to endorse any specifi-cally, servicemembers do value and ap-preciate such expressions of support:http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/2002/b12122002_bt632-02.html
Support our troops
4226, ext. 5 to get more information orsign up for the training.
The commitment is three details permonth, which can be funerals, color guards,sabers or retreat, for a duration of one year.You will receive a full ceremonial uniformand and hopefully receive personal rewardby providing a dignified and honorablememorial for the grieving family of one ofour own.