sky ranger 2011 february

Visit us on the web at www.cnic.navy.mil/FortWorth

Februa ry 2011

SKY RANGERNAS Fort Worth JRB, Texas

Vol. 68, Issue 2

Naval Aviation Centennial .... pg 10-11

Inside...Navy Region Southeast Selects Regional Sailor of the Year

AC1 Sarah Howell Receives Regional Award

Commander Navy Region Southeast Rear Adm. Tim Alexander announced our own Air Traffic Controller Petty Officer 1st Class Sarah Howell as the Regional Sailor of the Year during a banquet at The Players Championship Sawgrass, Jan. 13, in Jacksonville, Fla.

“It was a huge honor to be nominated, let alone selected as the RSOY, considering how many Sailors are in the region, and also the caliber of the Sailors who

BY MCC MONICA NELSON

PHOTO BY MCC MONICA NELSON

Navy Region Southeast (NRSE) Regional Sailor of the Year Air-Traffic Controller Petty Officer 1st Class Sarah Howell receives a nautical compass from NRSE Command Master Chief Joseph Curtin as Rear Adm. Tim Alexander, commander NRSE looks on. Howell was awarded the Regional SOY at a dinner at The Players Champion-ship Sawgrass, wrapping up four days in Jacksonville, Fla. with 16 other SOYs from around the region.continued on page 17

301st Fighter Wing Participates in Alternative Fuel Testing

Four F-16 F i g h t i n g F a l c o n s took off for a routine f l y i n g sortie here on base,

however, one flew powered by a different kind of fuel.

Monday, Jan. 10, the 301st Fighter Wing began evaluating alternative

fuel in its F-16 Fighting Falcons.The evaluation supports an

Air Force-wide effort to reduce greenhouse gasses and reliance on foreign sources of fuel, said Elizabeth Christensen, an Alternative Fuel Certification Office airframe systems engineer based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

The fuel being tested is a 50/50 blend of traditional JP-8 and alternative fuel known as Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene, produced from

coal, natural gas or both by using the Fisher-Tropsch process, Christensen said. This fuel varies from the traditional fuel in that it has less sulfur and produces lower engine emissions.

The Air Force has a goal for all aircraft in the fleet to be certified on the SPK alternative fuel during Fiscal Year 2011, Christensen added. The F-16 was certified to fly the fuel in August 2010.

BY SRA MELISSA HARVEY

Free Tax Filing Provided by VITA

SAMMY TEAM Looking for Band Members

Sailor Donates Bone Marrow

continued on page 16

It’s tax time! Once again the base is offering free tax preparation for active duty military, dependents and retirees. This year, the tax deadline is April 18. Computers are now up and running!

See Page 7

Are your musically inclined? The motivation group SAMMY Team needs you! It is looking for musicians and singers to create a band, which will perform at schools and community events.

See Page 9

LS2 Nancy Heflin gives bone marrow to help 66-year-old woman with MDS .

See Page 4

Februa ry 2011p. 2

The Official Base Newspaper of Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas

Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base Commanding Officer

Capt. T.D. Smyers

Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base Public Affairs Officer

Mr. Don Ray

Editor Kathleen Bynum(817) 782-7815

[email protected]

StaffMC2(AW) Bradley Dawson

AZ2 Crystal Janes

The Sky Ranger is an authorized newspaper published on the sec-ond Thursday of every month for the installation’s tenant commands, base military personnel, civilian employees and retirees of the Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas.

The editorial content of this newspaper is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office. News items, photos and event briefs must be submitted by noon on the last Friday of the month. The Public Affairs Office is in building 1510 (Chennault Ave.) News ideas and questions can be directed to the editor by calling (817) 782-7815 or faxed at 782-3293. All materials are subject to editing.

The Sky Ranger is an authorized publication for members of the military service. Its content does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Navy, and does not imply endorsement thereof.

The appearance of advertising in the publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, or Full Amor Group of the products advertised. Advertisers are responsible for accu-racy of ads contained herein.

Everything advertised in the publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, martial status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of purchaser, user, or patrons.

The Sky Ranger is published by Full Armor Group, a private firm, in no way connected with the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Navy, under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy. The circulation is 10,000.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NAS Fort Worth JRB Public Affairs Office, 1510 Chennault Ave., Fort Worth, Texas, 76127

The Sky Ranger is a registered trademark of the United States of America.

Advertisements are solicited by the publisher and inquiries re-garding advertisements should be directed to the Public Affairs Office at 817.782.7815 or call Full Armor Group directly at 817.887.8470.

SKY RANGERNAS Fort Worth JRB, Texas

CAPTAIN’S LOG:

Fresh off of deciding how to staff base services during the recent ice storm, I had time to reflect on the relationship between safety and mission accomplishment. Although it seems like a complicated balance at first blush, it’s really not that tough to wrap your head around.

I’ve always thought the phrase “Mission First, Sailors (Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Guardsmen as well) Always” does a pretty good job of communicating my intent as installation commander. We’re here to accomplish a mission, which we can’t effectively do without a robust, healthy and capable force. One anecdote I often use to illustrate this is the “man on the stand turn.”

On aircraft that are equipped with a turboprop powerplant, like the C-130 variants flown by the 136th Airlift Wing and VMGR-234 right here in Fort Worth, it’s sometimes necessary to tweak the engine while the propeller is in motion. This requires a mech to be positioned on

a ladder just aft of the spinning prop. ‘Sound safe? NO WAY! It’s fraught with risk; but the mission dictates we do it to produce an engine with sufficient power to reliably deliver our troops and cargo to the “tip of the spear.” To mitigate the risk this mech is exposed to, there are rigid procedural, equipment and oversight requirements that make the evolution as safe as possible.

Of course, not all work environments involve this kind of obvious risk, but all environments involve some. That’s why I’m

pushing for NAS Fort Worth JRB to achieve “Star Certification” through OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program, or “VPP.”

We’ve been on this road for more than three years now, and it’s nearly time to be evaluated by OSHA for our certification.

When successful, NAS Fort Worth will join hundreds of organizations, across all industries, who have safeguarded their personnel – and, therefore, their mission – through tried-and-true safety behaviors and a robust safety culture.

While many industrial environments can use the OSHA-preferred banner phrase “If it’s not safe, we’re not going to do it” our business requires a slightly different approach: “if it’s not safe, we’re going to make it safe enough to do.”

This philosophy enables us to put our mission first, while safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of those who’ve made it their life’s work to accomplish that mission.

Please join your base team in producing a work environment dedicated to risk mitigation and mission accomplishment!

We’ll all be safer when you do!

BY CAPT. T.D. SMYERS

SAFeTy FiRST?

CO’s Suggestion BoxWhy can’t we re-open the

old NCO Club for activities?I’ve been getting a lot of club-

related questions lately, so let’s break this down.

I “grew up” in the Navy amidst a hearty service club environment. We had plenty of opportunity, for all ranks, with Officer’s Club, NCO Clubs, etc., which made for some great times! Even though the client base for these clubs was limited to those working on the base, they were able to stay open because their operating expenses were subsidized by federal dollars. That business model changed several years ago, so clubs must now operate in “the black” to stay open. This decision resulted in consolidation of clubs across DoD installations, and several club closings. We’ve experimented with ways to provide the “old school” atmosphere within the fiscal constraints of the new business model. For example, we opened the Lone Star Center’s “Stars & Stripes Bar” on Fridays and Saturdays for a while, but met with disappointing response. That said, we’re always open to ideas that

have yet to be tried, so keep those cards and letters coming!

The new swimming pool is very nice. Sure hope it will be kept up better than the old pool. Thanks for MWR!

I appreciate the shout-out for MWR. They’re working hard and smart to renew equipment and services across the base and are too seldom recognized by customers for their efforts!

With regard to the pool, yeah, we like it a lot! The outdoor pool was demolished because it was very old, as well as being very expensive and difficult to maintain. While the indoor pool is a nice cross-functional facility, providing


Februa ry 2011 p. 3

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Blue Angels Returning in April

Sailor Travels to D.C. to Donate Marrow

This year marks the Centennial of Naval Aviation.To commemorate this historic

occasion, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base will

celebrate with a free Air Power Expo featuring the Navy‘s Blue Angels on

April 16-17. Rob Reider will return as the air show

announcer, marking his 33rd year as an air show host. Reider is the recipient of the ICAS Sword of Excellence, the highest award an air show professional can receive. As a pilot, writer, TV personality and performer, he has won five Emmy awards.

Besides the breathtaking performance by the Blue Angels, extreme aerobatic pilot Jason Newburg in his Pitts Viper will be on hand.

Tim Weber will be flying his German-built Extra 300S. A long-standing performer at all NAS Fort Worth air shows

is Jan Collmer, and the Trojan Phylers in their vintage T-28B aircraft will return too.

An F/A-18 demo is being considered, along with several

other aerial performances and static displays. Guests should prepare for the weather; bring sunscreen, hat

and sunglasses. Folding chairs are welcome, as are binoculars and cameras.

Coolers, ice chests, backpacks, large bags and brief cases are not permitted. Outside food and drink are also prohibited, however, concession stands will be open. Skateboards, bicycles, scooters, inline skates, bicycles and weapons of any kind (regardless of permit) are prohibited. Weapons or projectile firing weapons to include, but are not limited to, firearms, knives, air rifles/pistols, BB guns, cross bows, paintball guns and blunt objects. Any weapons or projectile firing weapons brought to the show will be confiscated, and the

owner will be asked to leave the Naval Air Station. Confiscated items will not be returned. All alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia, medications not belonging to individual, glass containers and pyrotechnics of any kind, flamable liquids of any kind are prohibited.

For the safety of everyone, all vehicles, people and their property are subject to search upon entering NAS Fort Worth JRB. Please remain patient and cooperative.

Only animals specifically trained to assist the disabled are permitted.

– Staff Report

When LS2 Nancy Heflin signed up to be a bone marrow donor, she had no clue that three years later she would actually help prolong the life of a 66-year-old woman with Myelodysplastic Syndrom (MDS).

Heflin, currently at the Aviation Support Division (ASD) aboard Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, recently transferred from Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Denver.

In 2007, while serving at NOSC Denver she registered through the C.W. Bill Young/Department of Defense (DOD) Marrow Donor drive hosted at Buckley Air Force Base.

“It only took a few minutes to fill out the questionnaire, and they swabbed the inside of my mouth for a DNA sample,” Heflin said.

While settling in to her new command Heflin received an email from the DOD bone marrow registration asking if she was still interested in donating.

Heflin was a little nervous about the process but was quick to respond and get the ball rolling.

“I never thought twice about donating,” she said. “I’ve known several people who have had cancer, and I just wanted to make sure that I could help any way possible.”

Soon after, she was on a plane to Washington, D.C., to begin the donation process at the Apheresis Clinic at Fairfax Pathology Associates in Fairfax, Va.

BY AZ2 CRYSTAL S. JANES

Go Light on LightsDo you really need the lights? If there’s natural daylight in your workspace, try turning off your overhead lights. If the morning is dark, see if you can leave the lights off after you return from lunch. You can use task lighting to supplement the daylight in specific areas that need more light. It uses a fraction of the energy that lighting a whole room does.that lighting a whole room does.

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY Visit https://energy.navy.mil continued on page 16

WHAT: AIR POWER EXPO 2011WHEN: APRIL 16-17WHERE: NAS FORT WORTH JRBCOST: FREEDETAILS: www.airpowerexpo.com

PHOTO BY MCCS MARIA ESCAMILLA

LS2 Nancy Heflin

February is African American History MonthThe base library is celebrating

African American History Month by promoting several worthy reads about the Civil Rights movement, including several biographies that tell about the struggle for equality.

To expand your knowledge of the Civil Rights movement, check out the following books.

• “1001 Things Everyone Should

Know About African American History,” by Jeffrey C. Stewart

• “The Black Book,” by Middleton A. Harris

• “The African American Century:

How Black Americans Have Shaped Our Country,” by Henry Louis Gates Jr.

• “Eyes On The Prize: America’s

Recommended Web Siteswww.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/index.htmlwww.onehistory.org/black.htmwww.nps.gov/history/aahistory/

continued on page 7

Februa ry 2011 p. 5

COMMUNITY RESOURCES and ATTRACTIONS

Youth, MWR Team Up for Teen CenterInspired in part by a petition from local

teens, the base is in the process of developing a teen center.

“I was sitting on my front porch when I was approached by a few of the kids who live here on base with this petition for a teen center … I thought they were coming to see my son,” said Capt. T.D. Smyers, commanding officer of NAS Fort Worth JRB.

But the ambitious group of teens (Clayton Sapp, Levi Sapp, Leighton Atkins and David Cazres) instead presented the Skipper with the petition which had been taken from home to home to gather support and signatures.

Young Clayton hit inspiration when he remembered visiting a teen center in Germany. He and his friends really wanted a central location to meet up and have fun. It would benefit everyone, giving them a space to relax and play games, while offering their parents a worry-free zone.

Unaware that MWR staff was already on the same wavelength, the teens may see their

dream of a recreational center just for them come to fruition, hopefully before summer.

The activities and recreational options available to a military family generally fall under the MWR department and can range from live events to various fitness options. These normally cater to a family as a whole or a single military member. The new teen center adds another option to those offerings, as well as events scheduled specifically for young adults.

The CrossRoads Teen Center will be a hub of activities and entertainment, open to all teens able to access the base – not just those of active duty parents.

“Construction is scheduled to begin this quarter,” said Anita Tolson, a CDC employee who has been tapped to help lead the center.

She hopes the new teen center will be ready before summer arrives.

Now all that stands in the way is a little time and planning.

MWR personnel have already submitted a budget that is merely awaiting approval. The new CrossRoads Teen Center will be located in Bldg. 1145; however, events and activities that do not require a physical building are already in motion.

For more information, call 817-782-7520.

BY MC2 (AW) BRADLEY DAWSON

TEXADILLO CORNER: BASE ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

Get MWR Updates!Facebook:

www.facebook.com/MWRFW

Twitter: www.twitter.com

Search ‘LibertyFW’

Offline? Connect at the Base Library’s Computer Lab

or use the Bowling Center’s

FRee WiFi Network

LIBRARY1802 Doolittle Ave.817-782-7735Hours: Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Closed Sunday and holidays.Ongoing: The Library is hosting ESL (English as a Second Language) classes every Thursday evening at 5:30 p.m. Yolanda Williams is the instructor and Co-Sponsored by FreshStart Literacy, Inc. Call for details.Of note: The Library’s new additions are Rosetta Stone, new children’s and young adult’s titles, provided by the Navy General Library Program. Also available new adult titles, books on CD and latest movies (rental is free). Feb. 10: Health and Fitness Fair, co-sponored by MRW, will be at the NOSC Drill Hall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Event includes ZUMBA and Pilates demonstrations, personal trainer consultations and material on nutrition and health. Navy medical will be on hand to perform simple health and dental screenings, including testing blood pressure and body mass index. Eye health materials will also be available.Feb. 22: Texas Land Board Seminar at 11:30 a.m.March 22: Texas Land Board Seminar at 11:30 a.m.March 26: “Tribute to Abraham Lincoln” performed by Thomas Leach of the Civil War Center of Texas Time TBD.

TEXPLEX CENTER1815 Military Pkwy. 817-782-6122/5505Information, Ticket and Tours (ITT)Fall Hours: Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attractions: Grapevine Vintage Railroad, Dinosaur World (Glen Rose), Fort Worth Zoo, SeaWorld, Disney World,

DisneyLand. New Military Salute tickets for Disney World. Stop by or call for information and purchasing guidelines. March 2: The base will celebrate Texas’ Independence with a parade starting at 3:30 p.m. at the Navy Lodge. It will then proceed to Carswell Avenue, Military Parkway, Desert Storm Road and end at the covered pavilion located next to the Lone Star Center. The event will include music and food. In case of inclement weather, the festivities will be moved to the Lone Star Center. March 8: Let the good times roll!! Come celebrate mardi gras at the TexPlex, with food, fun and beads.

TORNADO LANES1815 Military Pkwy.817-782-6122/5505Hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Lanes close 15 minutes prior to center)Ongoing: Special military group pricing available for command events and birthdays. Call 782-6122 for details. Feb. 14: In honor of St. Valentine, the bowling alley will offer all ladies one free game of bowling when accompanied by a guest. Female guests will receive a flower. Guys will have a chance to enter a drawing for a special prize, after bowling one game. Feb. 21: President’s Day special is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hamburger, hot dog, fries, small drink, bowling, shoe rental, all offered for $1 each.

LONE STAR BAR1815 Military Pkwy.817-782-6122/5505Ongoing: Free Munchies on Fridays, 4:30 to 6 p.m.

MOVIE REEL THEATER Best price movie and snacks available in the metroplex and for our military familiesFriday through Sunday, call for times. 817-782-6037

LONE STAR CENTER (formally DESERT STORM CONFERENCE CENTER)2570 Desert Storm Road, 817-782-5293/7237Ongoing: Call Natalie Bullock or Sandy Foy for information concerning your next conference, meeting or event. March 12: St. Patrick’s Day Open House. Join us in the Stars & Stripes Room for complementary food, DJ, door prizes and a special prize for the “Best St. Patrick’s Day Outfit.” Cash bar available.

VET CLINIC1739 Eisenhower Ave.817-782-5608Feb. 23: The clinic will be open for the purchase of medications or to schedule appointments.Appointments may be made for the following days: Feb. 10, 17 and 24.

FITNESS CENTER1810 Tuskegee Airmen Drive817-782-7770NEW: The Fitness Center now has a Personal Trainer free to active duty personnel. Non-active duty $20/month for 2 days a week. To schedule an appointment with personal trainer, Derek, call the Fitness Center. Ongoing: step aerobics, pilates, yoga, spin, zumba, pump-it-up, adult/children karate and personal training. Check

center for days and times.More Classes: Spin class offered Tuesday and Thursday, 6:30 to 7:30 a.m.; Weekend yoga is from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays.Feb. 19: Benchpress/Power Lifting Contest at 10 a.m., $20 per person or $30 for both events. Contest open to male and female competitors. Register by Feb. 17 at Fitness Center. Competition begins at 10 a.m. For details, contact Fitness Center Director Donna Johnson at 817-782-7770.

AQUATICS CENTER3319 Hensley Ave., 817-782-1220Ongoing: Water Aerobics- JRB Aquatics Center from 8 to 9 a.m.; $1 per person.Feb. 12: Valentine’s Day Pizza Party from 7 to 11 p.m. Music provided by DJ. Cost is $5. All children under the age of 10 must have a parent present at all times. (Food will be served from 7 to 9 p.m.)

CROSSROADS TEEN CENTER (SPRING BREAK ACTIVITIES)817-782-7520Registration forms are available for these events at the CDC, TexPlex (bowling alley) and Aquatics Center. Pick up a flyer at one of the above locations for additional information. You must register no later than March 1. March 14: Putt Putt Tournament at Bldg. 1145 parking lot; March 15: Basketball Shoot-out Tournament at court behind commissary; March 16: Bike Ride along Trinity River; Meet at Bldg. 1145; March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Pool Party at Aquatics Center, Bldg. 3319; and March 18: Bowling Party at TexPlex,, Bldg. 1815.

CROSSROADS TEEN CENTER SPRING BREAK ACTIVITIESRegistration forms are available for these events at the CDC, TexPlex (bowling alley) and Aquatics

Center or by calling Anita Tolson at 817-782-7520. Pick up a flyer at one of the above locations for additional information. You must register no later than March 1.

• Monday, March 14: Putt Putt Tournament at Bldg. 1145 parking lot • Tuesday, March 15: Basketball Shoot-out Tournament at court behind commissary • Wednesday, March 16: Bike Ride along Trinity River; Meet at Bldg. 1145 • Thursday, March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Pool Party at Aquatics Center, Bldg. 3319 • Friday, March 18: Bowling Party at TexPlex,, Bldg. 1815

Februa ry 2011p. 6

BASE HAPPENINGS

PHOTO BY KAREN PIST Y

PHOTOS BY MC2 (AW) BRADLE Y DAWSON

PHOTO BY CPL. JOSEPH LAMBACH

PHOTO BY KATHLEEN BYNUM

PHOTO BY KATHLEEN BYNUMPHOTO BY KATHLEEN BYNUM

At left, temperatures on Jan. 15 were quite frigid, but that didn’t stop more than 100,000 people from coming out to Cowtown to see the biggest western parade in the world, as well as the largest non-motorized parade … everyone was required to walk, ride in a wagon or ride a horse. Above, representing each branch of military service, service members from NAS Fort Worth JRB rode in a covered wagon and marched in the Fort Worth Stock Show Parade, which kicked off the 2011 annual event. At right, Service members riding on the back of the wagon respond to cheers from the crowd.

Above, Navy Lodge Manager SaQuarius Owens, left, and Capt. T.D. Smyers, commanding officer of NAS Fort Worth JRB, slice into the birthday cake for the Navy Lodge’s celebration of 40 years on Jan. 24.

With the recent renaming of the former Desert Storm Conference Center, now called The Lone Star Center, several common areas of the center are now furnished in a Western style. The cowboy theme includes Texas paintings and sculptures, as well as furniture. Stop by and see the changes for yourself.

Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey, commanding general of the Western Recruiting Region, visits with Marines from the 8th Marine Corps District headquarters during his Dec. 13, 2010 tour of the base. Bailey spoke one-on-one with headquarters Marines before continuing his tour around the district’s area of responsibility.

Februa ry 2011 p. 7

Free Tax Filing Now Available

If You Receive a Tax Refund This Year, What Will You Do With It?

Recent tax law changes and software issues held up the start of the annual VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) tax preparations for active military, dependents and retirees. Reservists on active duty for more than 30 days are eligible too.

The computers arrived Jan. 24, and volunteers started preparing and filing taxes that day, according to Chief Andrea Navarro. About 20 volunteers help with the program, she added.

Through this program, service members can save hundreds of dollars on tax preparation fees. It usually takes about 30 minutes to

prepare and file one’s taxes, Navarro added.

Service members usually will receive their refund in about five to seven days, on average, she said.

The VITA program has been offered on base for more than a decade.

Last year, 1,152 service members received tax assistance through the

program, Navarro said. Although tax day falls on April 18

this year because of a holiday, “the Naval Legal Service Office continues to file taxes for active military returning from deployments,” Navarro said.

For details on the program, call 817-782-6397.

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Exercise “Solid Curtain - Citadel Shield 2011” is an anti-terrorism/force protection exercise that will be conducted on all continental United States (CONUS) naval installations Feb. 21-25.

“This exercise will enhance the training and readiness of our security personnel and first responders,” said Rear Adm. Tim Alexander, commander, Navy Region Southeast. “It will also create a learning environment for installation personnel to exercise functional plans and operational capabilities.”

Alexander also stressed the importance of the training.

“This is the time to prepare and learn how to adapt to diverse and fast-moving situations,” he added. “The more opportunities we have to train, the more proficient we’ll be in dealing with real-world events.”

Military personnel, civilian employees, retirees and family members should factor in additional time for getting through gates to conduct their business on Navy Region Southeast installations. Vehicle drivers and passengers should carry proper identification with them at all times. Please be patient and follow the directions of security personnel.

Local communities may also experience traffic delays

Installations to Participate inExercise Solid Curtain/Citadel ShieldBY CNRS PAO


DALE

WILKINS

JONES

COLON

“I’m taking any refunds I get and making a day of it at the track.”

— Mike Dale

“My tax return is going to college tuition and credit card bills.”

— Cpl. Marquis Wilkins

“I’m going to start a college fund for my son with the returns I get this year.”

— AC3 (AW) Angela Jones

“I want to save money for a house after I pay off all my bills.”

— AWF2 (AW) Jamie Colon

....african americancontinued from page 4Civil Rights Years, 1954-1965,” a companion volume to the PBS television series

• “The Golden Thirteen: Recollections Of The First Black Naval Officers,” edited by Paul Stillwell and Foreword by Colin L.

Powell• “American Patriots: The Story

Of Blacks In The Military From The Revolution To Desert Storm,” by Gail Buckley

• “Guide to More Great African American Children’s Books,” by Donna Rand.

— Staff Report

Februa ry 2011p. 8

Miller Promoted to Brigadier General

Brig. Gen. Ronald B. Miller, 301st Fighter Wing commander, officially pinned on the rank of brigadier general during a promotion ceremony Jan. 15.

During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Roger Binder, assistant to the commander Air Combat Command, spoke of Miller’s

impeccable military service record.Miller shared memories and lessons learned during his 28 years of

military service and gave thanks to his family for their support.Miller had been the mobilization assistant to the Director, Plans

and Programs, HQ Air Combat Command, Langley AFB, Va. He has served as vice commander of the 917th Wing at Barksdale AFB, La., and deputy commander of an operations group. He has also deployed in support of Operations Deny Flight, Joint Forge and Enduring Freedom.


PHOTOS BY SRA MELISSA HARVE Y

Top left photo: Maj. Gen. Roger Binder, right, assistant to the commander Air Combat Command, administers the oath of office to Brig. Gen. Ronald B. Miller, 301st Fighter Wing commander, at his promotion ceremony Jan. 15. Miller was joined by family and friends to celebrate the momentous occasion. Top right photo: Mrs. Dori Miller, left, wife of Brig. Gen. Ronald B. Miller, center, 301st Fighter Wing Commander, and Maj. Gen. Roger Binder, as-sistant to the commander Air Combat Command, celebrate after the promotion ceremony on Jan. 15. Miller took command of the 301st Fighter Wing Oct. 3, 2010.

457th FS Pilots Help Honor Airmen’s Ultimate Sacrifice301st Fighter Wing Banquet Set for Feb. 19 J a n u a r y

14 was a day that the D e n n a n y and Tucci f a m i l i e s waited 42 years for,

the day when their Airmen were laid to rest.

Col. James E. Dennany, 34, of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Maj. Robert L. Tucci, 27, of Detroit, were remembered in a memorial service at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-4 Phantom pilots were among those who honored them.

Pilots from the Air Force Reserve Command’s 457th Fighter Squadron flew in a Missing-Man formation with F-4 pilots from Detachment 1, 82nd Aerial Targets Squadron, based at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M.

The unique flyover was conducted over the burial service for Dennany and Tucci.

“It was the first fly-by in which I participated that honored specific [people],” said Maj. Jay Bernstein, a 457th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot stationed at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base. “To know

that our efforts were in honor of a particular aircrew was very special.”

It was a privilege to help let the world know that no matter how long it takes, we will keep working to bring our own back home, Bernstein said.


PHOTO BY SRA MELISSA HARVE Y

Members of the Honor Guard from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas carry the remains of Col. James E. Dennany and Maj. Robert L. Tucci Jan. 14 at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. The two Airmen were reported missing in action after their F-4 went missing during a mission over Laos Nov. 12, 1969.


The Air Force Reserve Command’s 301st Fighter Wing will name its annual award winners at a banquet Feb. 19 at the Fort Worth Hilton Hotel.

“We’ll recognize the quarterly winners and announce the annual winners,” said Chief Master Sgt. Ricky Hester, one of the banquet’s organizers and a member of the 301st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

Hester and the wing’s other chief master sergeants – all part of the 301st Fighter Wing’s Chiefs’ Group – organize the event to recognize the best of the best from among Airmen across the wing.

“If you don’t recognize what your people are doing, then you won’t be doing it very long,” he said. “It’s important to recognize the people who make the wheels go ’round.”

The annual banquet will start at 6 p.m. and will feature awards in five categories: Airman of the year, non-commissioned officer of the year, senior non-commissioned officer of the year, company-grade officer of the year and first-sergeant of the year.

An additional award will also be presented – the Senior Master Sgt. Henry D. Green Award for Community Service.

Tickets are $10-45, depending on rank, and may be purchased from any chief master sergeant at the 301st. Ticket sales end Saturday, Feb. 12.

More than 2,000 Air Force Reservists are assigned to the 301st, which operates, maintains and supports a squadron of F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft on base.

–Staff Report

Februa ry 2011 p. 9

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Group Seeks Drawings for Murals on Base

Have you always fancied yourself as the next Rembrandt or Picasso? Then the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps are seeking your

talents.The E6 Association is now

accepting drawings depicting each branch of service that will eventually be transformed into four murals on base.

We wanted a way to “show pride in our installation and what we are about,” said LS1 Desmond Jones, vice president of the E6 Association, who is heading up the contest.

As a joint reserve base, each service works together for a common goal or mission, he added.

Artists — and even those who just like to draw or sketch — are encouraged to submit artwork for the proposed project.

Jones said he is accepting submissions through March 4.

When asked what type of artwork is acceptable, Jones said

it should be easily recognizable as representing a service, such as a lone Sailor to show the Navy or a pilot to show the Air Force.

“When a person not associated with the military can look at it and say that is the Army, Navy, Marine Corps or Air Force” we will have successfully illustrated our joint reserve base status, Jones said.

He also suggests that there not be too much detail, because the eventual home of each of the four panels will be on the 183 bridge entrance, so people won’t have too much time to look as they’re driving.

Once the submissions are in, Jones will present the finalists to Capt. T.D. Smyers, commanding officer of the base, and Master Chief Ellen Zubke. They will decide which drawings best represent each service.

After the selections are made, they will be drawn onto the bridge and painted.

Jones estimates the actual painting will take place in April because they want nice weather and a good, dry surface on which to paint.

The road to the base will be closed for four hours a day for the project, so it will most likely take a few days to finish the murals, Jones said.

Members of the E6 Association will help paint the murals, but Jones encourages anyone who wants to help to volunteer.

Last year, the JRB logo was added to the 183 bridge by chief selects, who began the process during their induction.

To submit artwork or volunteer, call 817-782-6185.

BY KATHLEEN BYNUM

SAMMY Team Looking for Band Members

School Liaison Officer Michael Arnett is looking to expand the SAMMY Team program to include music.

SAMMY, or Sailors and Marines Motivating Youth, is a group of multiple service members from the base who visit schools and other community events to “share a positive message of encouragement” to those in the community. One of the base‘s goal is to give back to the community in which it operates.

“SAMMY Team members testify to the fact that they have had personal struggles in their lives and with many of the attributes gleaned from the service, have overcome and persevered against adversity,” Arnett said. “NAS Fort Worth JRB Commanding Officer Capt. T.D. Smyers’ example and leadership serves to inspire the SAMMY Team members, as well as the audiences

he speaks to.“ M e m b e r

m e s s a g e s i n c l u d e

overcoming peer pressure, staying away

from harmful drugs, making responsible

choices, being dedicated to something larger than self, setting goals and keeping focused on what they want to become,” Arnett added.

While visiting Southwest High School, the SAMMY Team engaged the students in playing “the measure of success,” game in which dollar bills are stretched end to end, and students have to jump over them, long-jump style.

“In this one game right here, the measure of success is cash,” Smyers told the students. “That’s a game, that’s not life. The measure of success is what’s in you, and

BY KATHLEEN BYNUM


Februa ry 2011p. 10

Februa ry 2011 p. 11

Februa ry 2011p. 12

Make This Year’s Resolution ‘SMART’This is the season when

millions of Americans will choose to lose weight as their New Year’s resolution. If you are one of those people who vowed to lose weight last year and the year before and the year before that, I ask you, “How’s it Going? What will you do this year that you didn’t do last year or the year before?”

Weight loss is one of the most difficult challenges one will take on, and unfortunately, nine out of 10 people fail to reach their weight loss goals! So, it’s time to strategize and simplify your goals this year, and start living your life at a healthy weight.

The first step is to write down your goal, and post it on your refrigerator or computer screen. Writing down your goal and placing it where you will see it will remind you regularly of it and keep you motivated.

Next, write down five to 10 reasons why you want to reach your goal and one to three changes that you will make to support your goal. How do you write a good goal?

Follow the SMART principle of goal setting: specific, measurable, adjustable, action-oriented, realistic and time-based.

For example, a common resolution that I hear is, “I want to lose weight.” Although this is a goal, there is no way to measure the status and outcome. Remember, the ultimate goal is to reach a healthy weight and then maintain that weight for your life. An example of a SMART revision of this same goal is: “I want to lose weight. Ultimately, I want to lose 20 pounds by Aug. 1.”

Small goals on the way to losing 20 pounds could be: “To

measure my status on the way to my larger goal, I will lose 10 pounds by April 1 and 15 pounds by June 1.”

By documenting these smaller goals, it allows you to adjust your bigger goal or adjust your behaviors. If on April 1 you have lost only eight pounds, you haven’t failed at your ultimate goal, but you now know you need to exercise more or reduce the amount or types of food you are eating.

So, now you have your ultimate goal and your smaller goals, how are you going to reach your goal? By having a realistic, time-based goal you will succeed this year by making small habit changes or “baby steps.”

Clients I have worked with have succeeded by applying simple changes that don’t require much effort, such as reducing or eliminating sugar

BY CHRIS HALAGARDA

Get Heart Smart at 2011 Health FairCardiovascular diseases are the

No. 1 killer among Americans, according to the American Heart Association.

In 2009, an estimated 785,000 Americans had coronary attacks, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, about every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event; and about every one minute, someone will die from a coronary.

These numbers may seem a bit staggering, but there’s something you can do to increase your odds against an unhealthy heart.

February is Heart Month, and the base Library is working with the MWR Fitness Center to ensure everyone has access to information, not only on maintaining a healthy heart, but being fit overall.

This year’s Health Fair is set for

Feb. 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the NOSC Drill Hall.

Navy Branch Medical will be participating in the 2011 fair, providing simple health screenings such as checking blood pressure, testing body mass index (BMI) as well as dental screenings.

Exercise is a key part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and Pilates and Zumba demonstrations will be going on at the health fair.

Additionally, educational materials concerning nutrition and eye health will be distributed.

Also meet the new Fitness Center’s personal trainer, Derek Arden, who will be available for questions.

Can’t attend the health fair? The library has plenty of books on health, as well as fitness. For additional information call the Library at 817-782-7735.

HEALTHFUL LIVINGFor details about making healthy choices, visit Ask the

Dietitian on www.commissaries.com and post your questions on the DeCA Dietitian Forum. Sign up with the DeCA Dietitian on www.twitter.com and get messages sent to your cell phone. For recipes, check out Kay’s Kitchen.

BY KATHLEEN BYNUM

from their morning coffee, walking for a couple of minutes every half hour at work, trying a new fruit or vegetable from the commissary every week, lifting weights (any resistance training) once or twice a week for 15 minutes during lunch, eating a fruit or vegetable with every meal, making a “vegetarian food” day every week, packing a brown-bag lunch three days a week, decreasing the number of times you eat out by two trips each week or choosing only whole grains for breakfast.

Finally, it’s really important to not take on too much. Despite having witnessed many successful health

improvements, I have also seen many people fail at their weight loss attempts. The No. 1 reason for not succeeding was trying to change their lifestyle too drastically. So, this year, try learning from your mistakes and other’s mistakes.

Choose one or two habits and follow them for a month. If after four weeks you’re still following those two habits, then and only then, should you add another lifestyle change. With these baby steps, maybe next year your New Year’s resolution could be to save more money.

Chris Halagarda is the Navy Fitness, Performance Enhancement Dietitian.


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Army OneSource Looks to Faith Community to Fill Need

Seafood Highlights New Orleans Base Commissary Grand Opening

As the U.S. military remains at war—now its longest war in history—the health demands of service members continue to increase. More than 1.5 million service members have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The war on terror produces health issues unknown in previous wars. Deployments are multiple and longer in duration, and about 90 percent of wounded survive their injuries. A growing percentage of service members of war come home with traumatic brain injuries, post traumatic stress or depression.

Nearly half of those deployed have sought behavioral health care. The military realizes they cannot provide all the services needed for the growing demands for war-related mental and behavioral health services. To meet this need, Army OneSource seeks to mobilize the faith community by building awareness of challenges faced by service members and their families.

Scott Jenrette currently serves as South Texas Community Support Coordinator for Army OneSource. He said churches can be unaware of

Given that New Orleans is world renowned for the taste and quality of locally caught seafood, customers who attended the Feb. 8 commissary grand opening at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans were not surprised by the savory aromas from cooking demonstrations.

The new commissary, built with surcharge funds, replaced a facility that was demolished nearly

two years ago to accommodate new construction at nearby Naval Support Activity New Orleans, Algiers.

The mini-seafood festival at the New Orleans base commissary kicked off a federal government initiative to sell more fresh, local seafood and more domestic frozen seafood. As the military’s grocer, DeCA was able to identify opportunities to increase its

BY PAT TI RICHTER

BY KEVIN ROBINSON



on roadways leading to or in proximity to the installations. Area residents may also notice increased military activity associated with the exercise. Elevation of force protection conditions and increased security measures can be anticipated for the duration of the exercise.

Solid Curtain is an operational level training event. Citadel Shield, conducted by Commander Navy Installations

Command, provides advance guidance for participants in individual field training exercises. Exercise scenarios range from low-key events, such as recognizing and countering base surveillance operations, to higher-tempo and active simulated emergencies, such as small boat attacks on waterfront bases and cyber attacks on installations.

Solid Curtain – Citadel Shield is a regularly scheduled exercise and is not being conducted in response to any specific threat.

....SOLiD cUrTaincontinued from page 7

Februa ry 2011p. 14

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Base AnnouncementsMoreland Hall, the base dining facility, is open every day to base civilians, military and retirees for lunch. This is a temporary change until the AAFES Food Court renovation is complete.

One-on-one computer coaching is now being officered by Martin Arredondo at the Fleet & Family Service Center (FFSC), Bldg. 3175. These sessions are for active duty, Guard and Reserve members, retired military and spouses. To schedule a class, call the FFSC at 817-782-5287. Classes being offered include: Word for Resumes; Microsoft Powerpoint; Basic Computer Skills; Do’s and Don’ts of the Internet; Basic Computer Maintenance; Use the Internet for job searches; Email/Communication Services; Photo Editing with Photo Editor; College Seeking via the Internet; and Social Networking/Facebook.

The Child Development Center is looking for members interested in becoming CDH certified. This program allows more options to military parents looking for quality care for their children. Please contact the CDC at 817-782-7520 if interested.

Thinking about a PPM, or Personally Procured Move, or recently completed one? Formerly know as DITY moves, all military personnel are reminded that they must obtain certified weight tickets signed by a weighing official in order to be reimbursed for their PPM.

The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s Budget for Baby class is the second Thursday of each month. B4B is for any service family who is expecting a new family member and is open to all ranks, branches of services and reservists. Sign up for the class by calling the NMCRS Office at 817-782-6000.

FFSC presents Life Skills: Personal Communications Workshop from 9 to 10 a-.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12. For information call 817-782-5287.

Transition Assistance Program, or TAP, is available at Fleet & Family Support Center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22

through Friday, Feb. 25.

Work in Texas representative will be at Fleet & Family Support Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 15, and Tuesday Feb. 22.

FFSC presents Life Skills: New Parenting class from 9 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 19. Call 817-782-5287 for details.

Texas VA representative will be at FFSC from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17 and Thursday, Feb. 24.

FFSC presents Life Skills: Stress Management class at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22. Call 817-782-5287 for details.

Attention Fitness Center Enthusiasts: The parking lot normally used by most gym users, the one directly across the street, will be cordoned off for several months to accommodate the construction of an addition to building 1730 nearby. It’s anticipated the contractor will begin cordoning off the parking lot at the end of February. Construction is to be completed at the end of November. Parking for the Fitness Center will be available by building 1720 and in the lot behind the Fitness Center. Think of these few extra steps as part of your physical fitness routine.

It’s Time for Exercise Solid Curtain NAS Fort Worth will be participating in Exercise Solid Curtain from Feb. 21-25. The exercise may cause backups and delays at the installation gates. Disruptions to normal operations will be limited. Personnel and other area residents may observe:

•Increased traffic or delays in base access•Increased activity at gates (security forces, etc.) •Increased patrols on and around base

Solid Curtain is a routine exercise and is not in response to any specific threat. It is important to maintain a high level of security for our forces, an objective which is accomplished by this annual training.

The Traveling Wall, an 80 percent replica of the Vietnam Memorial, will come to Dutch Branch Park in Benbrook from March 30 to April 3. Capt. T.D. Smyers will be one of the guest speakers on April 2. More details to come in next month’s Sky Ranger.

BRAVO ZULULT BEAU HUFSTETLER, VR-59 ........................................... Navy Cross MedalAC1 SARAH HOWELL, AIR OPS FW ..............................................CNRSE SOYAC1 (AW) LAUREN SCOTT, NAS FW JRB .................... Navy Achievement MedalAC2 DANIEL LAUTENSCHAGER, NAS FW JRB ............. Junior Sailor of the QuarterAD1 KELLY ULMAN, VR-59 ....................................... Sailor of the QuarterAD1 BRANDON HEARD, FRC WEST ..................................................... MOVSMAD1 DONALD CRAVER, FRC WEST ........................... Letter of CommendationAD2 MICHAEL LOMAX, FRC WEST ........................... Letter of CommendationAD2 MACHELL WILLIAMS, VR-59 ............................ Safety ProfessionalAD2 BRYAN DEMIEVILLE, VR-59 ...........Enlisted Aviation Warfare SpecialistAD3 BRYAN SIMPSON, FRC WEST ............................ Letter of CommendationADAN ADAM SAED, FRC WEST ................................. Letter of CommendationAE1 JUNIOR SAYLOR, VR-59 .................................... Letter of CommendationAM3 DAVID OWOUR, VR-59 .................................... Bluejacket of the QuarterAMC JAMES DUNTLEY, FRC WEST .................... Navy Achievement MedalAO2 AMBER GIBBONS, FRC WEST .................... Navy Achievement MedalAO1 MICHAEL HARRISON, FRC WEST ................................................. MOVSMAS1 VAIDEN COURTNEY, FRC WEST .................................................... MOVSM

AS2 ANA ROSALES, FRC WEST .........................Navy Achievement MedalASC JUMONT STEWART, FRC WEST ........................... Navy Achievement MedalAT2 JOHNMICHAEL GONZALES, VR-59 .............Navy Achievement MedalAT3 COREY MATTHEWS, VR-59 ........................ Navy Achievement Medal; ......................................................................and Bluejacket of the QuarterATCS COREY SAKRYD, FRC WEST .......................Navy Achievement MedalAWF1 JOHN STANFILL, VR-59 ..........................Sailor of the QuarterAWF2 WILLIAM ELLIS, VR-59 ................. Junior Sailor of the QuarterLS2 BARRY BLAND, VR-59 .............................. Letter of CommendationLS2 DIANNA KIELTSCH, FRC WEST ................... Navy Achievement MedalMA2 FOSTER JACKSON, NAS FW JRB ................ Navy Achievement MedalNC1 KAREN COLLINS, VR-59 ...........................................................M O V S MPS1 NATHAN NDIKUM, NAS FW JRB ............................ Sailor of the QuarterRP3 SAVANNAH BROWN ....................................... Blue Jacket of the QuarterYN1 MICHAEL KIRCHNER, VR-59 .............Enlisted Aviation Warfare SpecialistMELVIN JONES, (CIV) FRC WEST ........................... Letter of Commendation

FROCKEDAWF3 ZACHARY ARAGON, VR-59AWF3 JEREMY BREWER, VR-59LS1 IKE NWOSU, VR-59

ADVANCINGThe following personnel from FRC WEST were selected for advancement since last month:AT1 GEORGE YOUNG, FRC WEST AZ1 MATTHEW KONRAD, FRC WEST AS1 CASEY MANWELL, FRC WESTAM1 CHARLES PETERMAN, FRC WEST AZ2 DANIEL CARTER, FRC WEST AS2 HENRY COLE, FRC WESTAE2 LISA CRAFFORD, FRC WEST AT2 CHRIS LOWREY, FRC WEST AO2 STEVEN McCARTER, FRC WEST LS2 JOHN O’CONNER, FRC WESTLS2 RICHARD SALAZAR, FRC WEST AS2 ANA ROSALES, FRC WESTAT2 ANTHONY WEST, FRC WEST AS3 ANTHONY BENEDICT, FRC WEST AT3 JEREMIAH MACE, FRC WEST AS3 RON PEDREGON, FRC WEST LS3 KELLI ANN FOSTER, FRC WEST LS3 CECILIA RASUL-SKIPPER, FRC WEST

Retired Military Wives Invited to Monthly MeetingsAll wives and widows of career

military men with a valid ID card are invited to participate in the twice-monthly assembly of the Retired Military Wives Club.

The Retired Military Wives

Club has its business meeting on the second Thursday of each month at the Fort Worth Elks Club, 3233 White Settlement Road. It begins at 11 a.m. The group’s social event is on the

fourth Thursday of the month. For details on the club or these

events, contact Jean Bonner (817-246-9523) or Judy Corso (817-266-0167).

—Staff Report


Navy Leadership Disturbed by Rise in ‘Spice’ Usage

Client Confidentiality: Core to the NMCRS Commitment

NORFOLK — Navy leaders are expressing alarm at recent statistics that show that Sailors’ use of “Spice” and similar so-called designer drugs rose in the last quarter of 2010. Spice and similar products are essentially an herbal, synthetic form of marijuana, mimicking the chemical compounds found in the drug. These products are banned for Navy personnel.

“The number of incidents of designer drug usage is rising at an alarming rate in our Navy,” said Adm. John C. Harvey, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. “In the last four months alone, 79 of our Fleet Forces Sailors and 72 Pacific Fleet Sailors have been accused of using or possession of the drug. That’s 151 Sailors that if found guilty will be processed for administrative separation from our Navy.”

Harvey believes it’s everyone’s responsibility to deal with what could be a dangerous trend.

“I need each and every one of our Sailors looking out for each other,” Harvey explained. “Talk to your shipmates about Spice and make sure they understand the dangers and serious consequences involved with its use.”

In response to the rising

concerns of the military over Spice and similar products, the Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board of Southeastern Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina placed 10 businesses in Hampton Roads off-limits to service members in November.

Since the release of Naval Administrative Message (NAVADMIN) 108/10 in March 2010, which reemphasized the Navy’s drug policy, the U.S. Navy has been proactively campaigning to reduce the number of incidents related to the use of synthetic marijuana.

“Our Navy has zero tolerance for drug use,” Harvey said. “If you are considering using Spice or a similar drug, I strongly urge you to reconsider. If you are caught using it, even once, you will be processed for separation from the Navy. There is no second chance.”

Navy personnel determined to be unlawfully using, possessing, promoting, manufacturing or distributing drugs and/or drug abuse paraphernalia shall be disciplined, as appropriate and processed for administrative separation, according to Navy regulations.

In the Navy, drug abuse includes: the wrongful use, possession, manufacture or

distribution of a controlled substance. Drug abuse also includes: the unlawful use of controlled substance analogues (designer drugs), natural substances (e.g., fungi, excretions), chemicals (e.g., chemicals wrongfully used as inhalants), propellants and/or prescribed or over-the-counter drugs or pharmaceutical compounds with the intent to induce intoxication, excitement or stupefaction of the central nervous system and will subject the violator to punitive action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and/or adverse administrative action. Examples of other substances, the wrongful use of which constitutes drug abuse, includes, but is not limited to the following: Products that contain synthetic cannabinoid compounds, such as Spice, Genie, Blaze, Dream, Ex-Ses, Spark, Fusion, Dark Knight, Yukatan Fire and K2. Natural substances such as Salvia divinorum and mushrooms. Common items abused by inhaling or huffing, such as Dust-Off, glue, paint thinner and gasoline. Over-the-counter products such as Robitussin and Coricidin HBP. Prescription medications such as Oxycodone, Vicodin, Adderal and Valium.

BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD

BY LISA ASZKLAR, NAVY-MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY

The goal of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is simple: to improve the lives of Sailors, Marines and families through financial management education and need-based assistance.

To meet that goal, the society has established a list of guiding principles that have been fundamental to a successful track record of assisting Sailors, Marines and their families.

First, the society promises to provide the same high-caliber service our clients have come to expect since we opened our doors 107 years ago.

Second, the society recognizes that members of today’s armed forces face challenges that differ from the needs of personnel who served decades ago. As an organization, NMCRS is committed to evolving with today’s military so that there is never a gap between the needs of our clients and the types of services provided.

Third, recognizing that personal financial health is critically important to not only military readiness but also the success of the military family, the society has pledged to provide the means for clients to develop their own problem-solving strategies through financial counseling and educational programs such as “Budget for Baby.”

Finally, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has promised that our services and programs will be administered by compassionate, trained staff who are committed to providing, on a consistent basis, a workable solution to the service member’s needs.

The society recognizes that every client is a valuable member of our military family and possesses a number of important rights.

These include the right to meet with a society representative in

a nonjudgmental atmosphere; a guarantee that they will be treated in a manner that maintains dignity and self-respect; and an expectation that the nature of the meeting between the client and the society will remain confidential, as set forth in the society’s written policy. This last item is crucial in light of the ease with which personal data may be breached, electronically or otherwise, in today’s world.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s confidentiality policy is straightforward: the client’s personal information will remain confidential within the society, and members of the society staff are prohibited from discussing that information, except on a “need to know” basis.

This does not apply if, for instance, the service member has engaged in criminal acts, misconduct, behavior affecting discipline or the security of the command. In these cases, the society does not require the service member’s permission to inform the command of these occurrences.

Because of the personal nature of the information discussed between the NMCRS counselor and the client, there is normally no requirement that a command representative—someone in a position of authority over the client—accompany the service member.

If the client requests that a command representative join the meeting, the society caseworker would make certain that the client understands that this is their right, not an NMCRS requirement.

Otherwise, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society will engage the command only if a case is unusual in nature and only with verbal or written permission of the service member. In these cases, the command representative will only be provided information that relates directly to this request for assistance.


“As a pilot, there is a definite risk - every time you fly - that something bad may happen. We all acknowledge that possibility,” Bernstein added.

“Every time I read the stories of what these guys did in Vietnam, I’m grateful to them for their service and sacrifice” said Lt. Col. Patrick Karg, operations officer at Detachment 1, 82nd ATRS, and pilot of the F-4 that flew over the ceremony.

“I want to thank the individuals who worked to find Col. Dennany and Maj. Tucci’s crash site,” Bernstein said. “They should know that combat aviators and their families truly appreciate their efforts.”

....hOnOring airmencontinued from page 8

Februa ry 2011p. 16

what you can give back to your community and your school and your family, and ultimately to yourself.

“Whatever your game plan is, as you move forward with it, find something to give yourself to,” Smyers added.

Adding music to the motivational message of the SAMMY Team will allow them to better relate to students, Arnett said.

Having spent years in the education field, Arnett understands teens.

“I know kids; I employ the techniques of the games to get to the kids, but one of the fastest ways to get to kids is through music, and their music,” Arnett said. “The SAMMY Band will employ popular music as a vehicle to make a connection with pre-teens and teens. Once the connection is made, we hope the message will be more readily received.

“The music selections will be made by the band members,” he said. “The music that is chosen will have to be both popular with the audience and appropriate to the venue they are performing. For

pre-teens and teens, we will play appropriate top 40 songs they hear on the radio,” Arnett said.

“I am looking for quality people first, and then quality musicians who want to deliver the message first and make the music second.”

The time involved should be minimal, Arnett said.

“Start up is always the most time expensive, and we will need to learn seven or eight songs in the beginning and add more as time goes on.”

A musician himself, Arnett is looking for guitar, bass, drums and keyboard players.

“Most of all we need singers, both male and especially female. I would like to see us have four quality singers to front the band. We will be holding band jams in the bowling alley bar. Anyone who wants to come by to listen or sit in and play is welcome. Please check with the bowling alley for times as they have not been set yet,” he said.

The SAMMY Team goes to schools and community events free of charge.

A SAMMY Team promotional video is available on Facebook. Just search for “School Liaison Officer NAS Ft Worth, TX.”

For details, call 817-782-6428.

....SammYcontinued from page 9

In other words, the caseworker would not discuss previous history that’s not relevant to the current request.

If the NMCRS counselor determines that it is necessary to involve the command but the service member objects, then the society will do its best to identify other organizations that may be better able to render assistance.

Clients are always welcome to bring a spouse when they meet with the NMCRS staff, but only in certain cases would a spouse be required to attend. Furthermore, if the spouse requests information on the service member’s past dealings with the society, that

request would be denied, unless the service member authorizes the society to divulge that information.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s privacy policy is designed to uphold the self-respect and dignity of the military members whom we serve. We take seriously our commitment to act as responsible stewards of the personal financial information collected in any meetings between the service member and our staff.

This is one more way we have earned the respect and trust of Sailors and Marines around the world, one service member at a time, and why they should always consider the society their first resource when facing financial difficulties.

....cOnfiDenTiaLiTYcontinued from page 15

Heflin said the process involved daily injections of a synthetic hormone called filgrastim to boost the number of blood stem cells in her body.

She received a series of shots for five days. On the fifth day they extracted blood through a tube that was then processed through a machine which removed the stem cells from her blood and then delivered the blood back into her body through another tube. The procedure took about four and a half hours.

“It was uncomfortable, but it didn’t hurt,” Heflin said.

According to the Mayo Clinic Web site, MDS is not curable, but a bone marrow transplant may help to prolong life.

For those interested in becoming a donor or would like more information, visit the Web site at http://dodmarrow.org/index.htm.

....marrOw continued from page 3

Christensen indicated that the specific objective for the field service evaluation the 301st Fighter Wing is conducting, is to obtain long-term durability data of using the fuel blend in an F-16.

The wing expects to receive 100,000 gallons of alternative fuel for the testing, said Senior Master Sgt. James Holland, 301st Fuels Management Flight chief. In order to deliver the fuel to the flight line for testing, a fuel system with quality control devices was built specifically for the alternative fuel by the fuels flight.

During the evaluation, two F-16s perform routine operations using only the alternative fuel blend, until supplies are exhausted, said Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Roark, 301st Maintenance Operations Flight superintendent.

Although a pilot may not fly one of these jets every time he flies, the odds of flying one of the two aircraft are good, said Lt. Col. Kurt Gallegos, 301st Operations Group commander.

“To be honest, we are comfortable

with it,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Zeller, 457th Fighter Squadron director of operations. “Its fuel, it burns.”

The testing is expected to last until the provided fuel supply is exhausted, which could be a few months, Christensen said.

Because there are no equipment upgrades necessary and because all fuel for this evaluation was purchased by AFCO, no unit costs are involved, Christensen said. Price variations between the straight JP-8 and SPK synthetic component of

the blended fuel are generally small.Every test that has been

completed to date, Christensen said, indicates that the blended fuel performs the same as the traditional JP-8. No performance, durability or maintainability impacts have been observed.

The 301st Fighter Wing is supporting this effort in order to assist in the Air Force’s goal to be prepared to switch to the new alternative fuel in 2011, Roark said.

....fUeL continued from page 1

PHOTO BY SRA MELISSA HARVE Y

A1C Wesley Green, 301st Fuels Management Flight fuel technician, tests alternative fuel for water before sending it through the quality control system and then pumping it into a fuel truck. The wing expects to use an estimated 100,000 gallons of alternative fuel during the evaluation.


were chosen to represent each installation,” AC1 Howell said.

She continued: “Each individual that came here has a great deal of responsibility at their installation and demonstrated a knowledge and wisdom of their programs, all of which could be envied by many. Every one of us was honored to be a part of the week no matter what the outcome was.”

Howell, who has seven years in the Navy, currently serves as the air traffic control tower chief on base.

“Petty Officer Howell is in the top 2 percent of all the Sailors I have served with in my career,” said Capt. T.D. Smyers, commanding officer of NAS Fort Worth JRB. “Her leadership is evident throughout the command, but most obvious in the Air Traffic Control division. Her unparalleled outstanding performance made her the clear choice to assume the duties of Tower Branch Manager. Her positive attitude, dedication and commitment to excellence led the control tower through a NATOPS Evaluation with remarkable results, setting a high bar for the entire command to strive for. Her mentoring of Sailors has led to an increase in continued education, improvement of exam scores and a rejuvenated commitment to the Navy. She has stepped up for every task on the base willingly and produced quality results in every aspect. She is a leader among her peers and a valued team player.”

Smyers added, “Howell embodies a culture of success and is a positive contributor to much of the success achieved throughout the command. She is by far my finest First Class Petty Officer on Station and was an easy choice as my Sailor of the Year.”

Navy Region Southeast hosted the Regional Sailor of the Year competition on board Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., inviting

17 Sailors and their command master chiefs to visit the tri-base area and explore local hotspots, Jan. 10-13.

“We chose to bring in all the region’s SOYs for the week, instead of just the top five, because they all deserve to be honored for what they’ve done for the Navy and our Sailors,” Alexander said. “We’ve also designed it to further develop each of the Sailor of the Year by surrounding them with others like them, as well as the area command master chiefs.”

“It was a humbling experience being next to so many great Sailors, to learn from them and from the command master chiefs,” said Navy Diver 1st Class Brent Roberts of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, whose wife Melissa accompanied him for the week.

The kick-off event Monday evening was a meet-and-greet at Mulligan’s, a restaurant on board NAS Jacksonville. Installation Sailors of the Year were able to mingle with the aviation wings’ Sailors of the Year over appetizers.

The following morning, CNRSE SOYs traveled to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay for breakfast in the Chief’s Club, enjoyed a tour of Trident submarine USS Alaska, and tested their skills in various submarine simulators.

“I have such a great respect for the guys who operate in those confined spaces for as long as they are deployed,” said Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Dwayne Hinson of Naval Air Station Meridian, Miss. “It’s fascinating the way their whole world is secretive and exclusive, not to mention how they have to be aware of sound levels at all times. They live a completely different experience than what most of us in the Navy do, and being able to see that up close without actually living it was awesome. Submariners know their stuff, they have to; there is no room - literally - for error!”

Later that evening, the SOYs displayed their bowling prowess at NAS Jacksonville’s Freedom Lanes. They had an early start the next morning tackling circuit

training with the aviation wings’ SOYs. They’re busy schedule continued with a tour of the Jacksonville Jaguars stadium, lunch at Jacksonville Landing and a visit to the Budweiser Brewery.

“The Jaguars stadium was one of the highlights of the week for me,” said Personnel Specialist 1st Class James Long of Naval Weapons Station Charleston, S.C. “To be taken behind the scenes and see how the NFL runs a professional team was informative and something I enjoyed.”

On Thursday morning, regional master chiefs boarded the top five SOYs to determine who would be the Regional Sailor of the Year. Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class Pierre

Peacock from Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Operations Specialist 1st Class McCajor Quinn of Naval Station Mayport, AC1 Hinson, ND1 Roberts, and AC1 Howell answered questions about Navy heritage, policy, organization, as well as questions on broader

topics like the Bill of Rights.“It’s always impressive to see

the leadership and capabilities of Sailors within our region,” said Navy Region Southeast Regional Command Master Chief Joseph Curtin. “We had a difficult time choosing the top five and an even harder time choosing the RSOY. That’s a testament to a lot of people who have influenced each one of these Sailors, but especially the mentorship going on at their local installations.”

The remaining SOYs traveled to St. Augustine to explore the old city and enjoy lunch. Following their boards, the top five were invited to lunch in the Chief’s Mess before an afternoon of skeet and trap shooting at the NAS Jacksonville range.

The week ended with dinner and speeches at TPC Sawgrass, an event put on by the TPC, Geico, VyStar Credit Union and the region and installation CPO messes.

Sky Ranger Editor Kathleen Bynum contributed to this article.

....awarDcontinued from page 1

PHOTOS BY MCC MONICA NELSON

Above, Sailors of the Year from around Navy Region Southeast visit the Duval County Veterans Memorial wall in downtown Jacksonville, Fla. Jan. 12. The Sailors toured the Jaguars stadium, Jacksonville Landing and the Budweiser Brewery during their day downtown.At left, Navy Region Southeast’s top five Sailors of the Year, from left, inv-lude Navy Diver Petty Officer 1st Class Brent Roberts of Naval Station Guan-tanamo Bay, Cuba; Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class Pierre Peacock from Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans; Air-Traffic Controller Petty Officer 1st Class Sarah Howell of Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas; Operations Specialist Petty Officer 1st Class McCajor Quinn of Naval Station Mayport, Fla.; and Air-Traffic Controller Petty Officer 1st Class Dwayne Hinson of Naval Air Station Meridian, Miss. Howell won the competition.

HOWELL’S AWARDS• Good Conduct Medal (2)• Navy Achievement Medal (3)• Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon• Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon• Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

Februa ry 2011p. 18

domestic seafood offerings in its stores.

“They want commissary shoppers to know Gulf Seafood is not only delicious, it’s safe,” said Chris Laborde, a spokesman for the Gulf Coast Alliance, an organization that promotes regional economic recovery, including the sale and consumption of seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. “Gulf fish, shrimp and other seafood delights have always been wholesome, and after the oil spill, the Gulf catch has become the most highly inspected seafood in the world.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is the primary federal agency responsible for the safety of Gulf-caught seafood.

The FDA is working closely with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other federal and state officials to closely monitor the oil spill situation and its potential impact on the safety of the Gulf state’s seafood. They do this by closing any fishing area where tainted seafood could potentially be caught and by inspecting seafood for any contamination levels that could pose a health risk. This inspection includes sampling seafood from inside and outside closure areas, at dockside and at market.

On the Gulf Coast and beyond, DeCA is increasing its selections of domestic seafood in fresh and frozen programs, according to Chris Burns, DeCA’s director of sales.

“On the fresh front, military

shoppers will see more seafood road shows at commissaries across the United States,” Burns said. “The events last for two to three days, usually over a weekend, and may take place either in the store or outside. These temporary sales supplement the usual commissary seafood selections and provide patrons further opportunities to purchase popular items. Emphasis is on contracting with companies that provide fresh, local and regional seafood at commissary-level savings.”

NAS Fort Worth’s Commissary will host its Seafood Roadshow on March 4-5, according to Sam Tresenriter, the commissary’s manager.

“We will have banners and such up in the store as we get closer,” Tresenriter said.

....SeafOODcontinued from page 13

....SUggeSTiOn bOxcontinued from page 2

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program! There’s something going on there all the time, and our new Aquatics Director Lu Rice is working hard to make it better every day.

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This well-organized suggestion-box-blitz can end now … the gym staff is lookin’ good in Navy Fitness blue & gold! Hoo Yah!

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service members and their families in their own congregation—military members who live off-base, or military families living far from installations to be closer to family.

Army OneSource statistics reveal

the importance of church-based support. Soldiers indicate feeling more comfortable receiving counsel from their pastor than from a mental health professional.

Nearly all soldiers suffer some form of combat trauma. The effects of war can cause them to question their faith in God. Grief and loss

issues, feelings of despair and hopelessness can make them feel permanently damaged.

Families of service members struggle too, enduring extended separations and more responsibilities at home. Children can experience anxiety and difficulty focusing in school. Family

members can feel a sense of loss, or insecurity. When their loved one returns, there can be feelings of rejection, abandonment or confusion about changes in the relationship. All of these emotions take a toll on relationships that could otherwise nurture emotional health for returning service members.

Yolanda Ortega is a mental health advocate and a co-founder of the Wellness Center for Families of Faith. Her efforts to support veterans and their families have been assisted by the work of Army OneSource. Ortega said they

have a similar goal of getting local churches to set up mental health ministries, led by veterans, to draw and serve veterans. Ortega sees many churches now offering such support groups.

Army OneSource believe churches can provide avenues that will lead to spiritual healing. They hope more churches and faith ministries will help to reintegrate soldiers into their communities.

See www.myarmyonesource.com to learn more.

....armY OneSOUrcecontinued from page 13

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